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Plan Commission backs zoning-text amendment to allow pizzeria at Minhaz property
Summary
The commission voted to advance a zoning-text amendment that would permit accessory indoor/outdoor commercial-entertainment uses in light-industrial zones to accommodate operations like Minhaz Kitchen (a pizzeria proposal at 1408 13th Street); staff characterized it as a cleanup to reflect existing uses.
The Monroe Plan Commission voted to forward a proposed zoning-text amendment to the judiciary and ordinance review process that would allow accessory indoor and outdoor commercial-entertainment uses—such as tasting rooms or small restaurant operations—when incidental to light-industrial activities.
Staff planner Sonia explained that Minhaz (currently operating as a winery and micro-distillery) has proposed adding a small pizzeria at 1408 13th Street. She described the change as a cleanup of the code to permit uses that have been occurring in practice and to provide flexibility for business owners. "So this is a bit of a proposed cleanup policy change that would accommodate the use of the has been occurring and would properly permit the pizzeria, to be allowed," Sonia said.
Under the proposed text, the food-and-beverage use would be permitted only when incidental to a light-industrial use—intended to prevent conversion of industrial-zoned property into stand-alone restaurants or bars. Commissioners discussed potential unintended consequences and where light-industrial areas are concentrated; staff noted most light-industrial parcels are in the industrial park and said the draft text limits the accessory use to properties where industrial activity remains primary.
A motion to move the amendment forward passed without recorded opposition; the item will next be reviewed by judiciary and ordinance committees and ultimately by the Common Council if approved through that process.
