Commission approves rezoning for proposed Kenosha cold‑storage warehouse at 4415 88th Avenue

The City Plan Commission voted to rezone 4415 88th Avenue from A2 (Agricultural Land Holding) to M2 (Heavy Manufacturing) to allow construction of a roughly 100,000‑square‑foot refrigerated warehouse for Iron Mountain Refrigeration.

At a public hearing the applicant described the facility as a middle‑ground warehouse and cooling facility for commercial refrigeration units sold online. “We’re just looking at the property rezoned to, from air culture to m 2 for industrial warehouse use,” the applicant said, adding the business currently employs about 12 people and anticipates limited truck movement — typically “1 to 2 trucks” leaving per day.

Staff recommended approval and told commissioners the rezoning is consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan and that a conceptual plan had been filed as required. Staff also noted the site is pushed to the rear of the parcel to avoid an airport clear zone, and that more detailed reviews (including fire department review) will follow when formal plans are submitted.

Commissioners pressed the applicant on environmental and safety issues related to refrigerant storage. The applicant said the units are sealed packages containing only small amounts of refrigerant — “usually like 4 or 5 ounces per refrigerator” — and that the units use newer, more environmentally friendly refrigerants. Commissioners also discussed truck parking and circulation on the limited‑frontage site.

The commission approved the rezoning on a roll call vote. The next step is submittal of formal development plans and permitting; staff said those plans will address utilities, fire‑safety measures and site layout.