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Planning commission recommends conditional‑use permit for auto repair at 715 Charles with screening condition
Summary
The commission recommended approval of a conditional‑use permit for an auto repair and reconditioning service at 715 Charles Street, with a requirement that any overnight outside vehicle storage meet the zoning screening standard (6–8.5 foot opaque fence); the applicant said the site will primarily house his own vehicles and intends to add screening.
The Brainerd City Planning Commission recommended approval of a conditional‑use permit for an auto repair and reconditioning service at 715 Charles Street and added a condition that any overnight outdoor vehicle storage meet the zoning code’s screening requirements.
Planning staff described the parcel as paved and located in the Makers/Employment (ME) zoning district, where auto repair and body shops are allowed by conditional use. Staff noted that outdoor vehicle storage must be screened by a 6‑foot minimum (not to exceed 8.5 feet) and that the applicant currently does not plan exterior changes.
Applicant Josh Miles said the operation would support his existing business, Lakes Area Auto Solutions, and that vehicle work at the Charles Street location would primarily involve the business’s own cars prepared for his nearby lot. Miles told commissioners he is inclined to install fencing for privacy and to discourage trespassing. Commissioners emphasized that any vehicles left outside overnight must meet the screening requirements and discussed how the building itself can function as screening if vehicles are stored adjacent to it.
Commissioner (speaker 3) moved to recommend approval of the conditional‑use permit with the explicit condition that any overnight outdoor storage meet the screening criteria in the ordinance. The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. Staff said the item will go before City Council on July 20 for final action.
