At a March 15 meeting, commissioners reviewed a sketch plan from Station Pizza owner Jake Schaer to transform the vacant Keys Auto Body building at 6016 Vernon Avenue into a delivery and takeout-only restaurant. The roughly 1,100-square-foot site would require rezoning from its current designation, which only allows car washes, auto repair shops, and gas stations, as well as an amendment to the city's comprehensive plan.

No formal vote was taken, as sketch plan reviews are designed only to gather non-binding feedback before applicants submit formal proposals. However, the discussion revealed sharp divisions among commissioners about whether the project aligns with the city's long-term vision.

Commissioner Miranda voiced strong opposition, arguing the high-traffic restaurant model conflicts with Edina's climate action plan goals to reduce vehicle miles traveled. "This is the complete opposite of that," Miranda said, describing the operation as essentially "food manufacturing" that would generate significant delivery traffic during peak evening hours on a busy county road with unprotected bike lanes.

Commissioner Alire questioned whether approving commercial zoning for a single small parcel surrounded by residential neighborhoods would set a troubling precedent. "I can't think of one" comparable situation elsewhere in the city, Alire noted. Both commissioners suggested the city should wait for results from an ongoing "Areas of Potential Change" study before making zoning decisions for the site.

Other commissioners, including Felt and Schultz, expressed more openness to the adaptive reuse concept, noting the property has sat vacant after previous development proposals failed. Staff explained that the site's unusual shape and setback requirements make any construction difficult, which has contributed to its prolonged vacancy.

The applicant indicated willingness to address concerns about sidewalk construction, parking lot design, and traffic flow. If Schaer decides to proceed with a formal application, the proposal would return to the Planning Commission for official review before going to the City Council for final approval.