The Brooklyn Park Planning Commission unanimously approved two development applications during its June 11 meeting, clearing the way for a local business expansion and a new religious institution.

BCS African Foods received approval for a preliminary plat, variance and site plan to construct a building addition at 7916 Brooklyn Boulevard. The project includes a dry storage addition to the existing building with a staging area that required a variance because it will be located between the building and public right-of-way. The applicant proposed landscaping to screen the staging area from public view. The expansion will remove 11 employee parking spaces but maintain customer parking areas, according to staff reports.

The commission also approved conditional use permits for BAPS Temple to operate a religious institution and rectory at 8700 Wyoming Avenue North. The organization plans to purchase the existing building in the Enterprise Park area and convert it for religious services without exterior modifications. BAPS Temple anticipates 10-20 people for weekday services and 200-300 people for Sunday services between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Commissioner Cain raised concerns about development fees totaling approximately $87,000 for the BCS African Foods project, suggesting the city review whether fee structures adequately support small business reinvestment. Planning staff agreed to examine the bonding and dedication fee structure to assess potential exemptions or reductions for small businesses.

Both applications will be presented to the City Council on June 23 for final approval. The planning commission noted that conditional use permits run with the property, meaning future owners could utilize the approved uses.