Planning Commission - Aug 19 2025

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Areas of Interest (5)

Proposed transition of city-owned parking and historic firehouse site into luxury condos.
Controversial proposal for 'private car showroom' as commercial mixed-use space.
Concerns over downtown parking supply: Net increase of 23 stalls vs. visitor parking demand.
Historical significance of site as former firehouse vs. modern architectural design.
Discussions on sidewalk width requirements (5ft vs 8ft standard) in central business district.

Adopt the final agenda

CarriedUnanimous

Moved by Commissioners · Seconded by Commissioners

Approve minutes from August 6, 2025

CarriedUnanimous

Moved by Commissioners · Seconded by Commissioners

There is some significant history with this site. But the applicant took that feedback and revised the concept.
— Brian McCann

Project historyDiscussing the 2022 proposal versus the new 2025 revision.

The unit sizes on average are 2,000 square feet and larger on the new concept.
— Carl Bron

Project designExplaining the drop from 63 units to 10.

This could qualify as more of a showroom than a warehouse or storage. So that is a conditional use in our CBD.
— Brian McCann

ZoningAddressing the legality of the applicant's private car storage/showroom.

Brian McCannCity Planner

Presented the sketch plat for Victoria Condos, detailed zoning, and site requirements.

Carl BronApplicant

Representing Monarch Development and Ghani Homes for the proposed condo project.

1 quote

“Originally the design intent was to... because Rich Ganon, who currently owns the lot, houses his collection of cars there.”

Explaining the inspiration for the building's design.

Rich GanonProperty Owner

Current owner of the site; plans to maintain a private showroom space in the new development.

Victoria, MNDowntown VictoriaQuamlit (Street)Ry's Way (Street)Tower Boulevard (Street)Vixs and Stiger Lake Lane (Street)Stiger Lake