Planning commission recommends conditional‑use permit for 202 Main Avenue apartment

The Sandstone Planning Commission on Jan. 14, 2026 recommended the City Council approve a Conditional Use Permit for 202 Main Avenue that would allow a 730 square‑foot, two‑bedroom apartment to be added on the alley side of the H&R Block building.

Applicant Moe Ludwig presented a floor plan showing 1,620 square feet of commercial space facing Main Avenue, 863 square feet facing 2nd Street and a new 730 square‑foot apartment on the east (alley) side. The plan includes on‑site parking, trash collection, a concrete patio/stoop and a privacy fence in the open area between the building and the alley. Ludwig’s building permit has been approved by the City Building Official.

Commissioners opened the public hearing at 6:02 p.m.; Kathy George, the city administrator, said notices ran in the Jan. 1 and Jan. 8 editions of the North Pine County News and were mailed to property owners within 350 feet. No public comments were received before or during the hearing. The hearing was closed at 6:07 p.m.

In reviewing the Conditional Use Permit request, the commission recorded eight findings of fact, concluding the proposed use would not overburden public facilities, is compatible with adjacent uses, would not adversely affect neighboring residential properties, is consistent with zoning purposes and the comprehensive plan, would not create traffic hazards and has adequate utilities and access. Commissioners agreed to add a condition that all outdoor household activities — including parking, patio use and barbecue grilling — must be conducted behind the building (on the alley side).

Commissioner Bill Gaede moved and Commissioner Steve Palmer seconded a recommendation that the City Council approve the Conditional Use Permit with the additional condition. The motion carried 3‑0. The recommendation now goes to the City Council for final consideration.