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Planning Commission backs Blue Stem Glass House event venue despite neighbor objections
Summary
The commission recommended approval of a conditional use permit for Blue Stem Glass House, a proposed 6,000-sq-ft glass conservatory event venue outside Kearney, with 10 staff conditions addressing hours, screening, parking and safety. Several neighbors raised concerns about noise, light, parking and the site's fit under ‘agricultural market’ rules; one commissioner voted no.
The Planning Commission voted to recommend a conditional use permit for the Blue Stem Glass House, a proposed glass-conservatory event venue on agricultural land west of Kearney. Presenters Matthew Klaus (W Design Associates) and Hannah Keneally (prospective purchaser) described a roughly 6,000-square-foot conservatory with a 3,200-square-foot foyer, outdoor courtyard, approximately 111 parking stalls (including 5 ADA stalls), and a maximum interior occupancy cited at 400.
City staff recommended approval with 10 conditions intended to reduce impacts on surrounding properties: a 100-foot setback for event activities from property lines, hours limits (Sunday–Wednesday 8 a.m.–10 p.m.; Thursday–Saturday 8 a.m.–11 p.m.), lighting containment, maintained 6-foot screening berms, paved ADA parking and path, ensured emergency vehicle access, and a requirement that any ownership changes be reported. Nearby residents raised multiple concerns during the public hearing: potential noise from live outdoor music, light pollution from an illuminated venue, inadequate parking for peak events, potential for increased drunk driving given the site’s county location, and whether the agricultural-market classification is appropriate for a commercial assembly use.
City Attorney Michael Tai and staff explained that planning staff interprets the city's code to allow an agricultural-market conditional use when the listed criteria are met, and that CUP conditions and subsequent enforcement or revocation are tools to manage impacts. After discussion, the commission approved the CUP recommendation on a roll call; Commissioner Malone recorded a dissenting "no" vote citing traffic and alcohol concerns. The Planning Commission’s recommendation will go to City Council on April 28 for final action.
