Consent Agenda (Items 7A & 7B)

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Minion [9:15] · Seconded by Commissioner Johnson [9:20]

The consent agenda included an expansion permit for a second-story addition at 15120 Belvoir Drive and front yard setback variances for a garage addition at 5642 Scenic Drive. Commissioner Johnson inquired about Item 7B, clarifying that the garage addition itself had been previously approved. No members of the audience or commission wished to remove items for separate discussion. The public hearing was opened and closed without public comment.

Conditional Use Permit for a detached accessory dwelling unit at 15815 Minnetonka Boulevard

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Johnson [37:44] · Seconded by Commissioner Brink [38:00]

Staff recommended denial due to the proposed ADU significantly exceeding city code limits for size (2,376 sq ft vs. 1,000 sq ft or 35% of principal structure) and height (30 ft vs. 24 ft, and taller than the principal dwelling). The applicant argued that the 1.35-acre property, substantial distance from neighbors, existing and proposed screening, and the multi-functional nature of the structure (combining garage, screen porch, and ADU) justified an exception allowed for City Council approval if no undue adverse impacts result. Commissioners expressed concerns about setting a precedent for approving structures so far outside the ordinance's intent and difficulty in maintaining long-term landscaping effectiveness. No public comments were received.

Preliminary and final plat of Oakland Estate second edition, the two lot subdivision at 1915 and 1929 Oakland Road

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Johnson [47:33] · Seconded by Commissioner Brink [47:40]

The application proposed reconfiguring two unplatted R1 zoned parcels (3.44 acres) into two slightly adjusted lots. The primary goal was to create a larger, more buildable area on the currently vacant 1915 Oakland Road parcel, by shifting the lot line and removing existing retaining walls. The project included demolishing the existing 1942 home at 1929 Oakland Road and constructing two new single-family homes. Staff confirmed that all proposed lots met city code standards, including wetland setbacks and tree protection (despite significant tree removal). No comments were received from neighbors or the public.

Conditional use permit and site plan review for parking lot addition at 18301 Highway 7 and 18407 Delton Avenue

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Brink [58:55] · Seconded by Commissioner Minion [59:00]

Minnetonka High School sought to expand an existing 19-stall parking lot by 14 net spaces on a recently acquired 0.5-acre property adjacent to its 97-acre campus. Staff confirmed the proposal met all conditional use permit, site plan review, parking, and steep slope ordinance requirements, noting the expansion avoided steep slope areas and included new stormwater chambers connecting to existing infrastructure. While 29 trees would be removed, this was considered minor given the campus size and compliance with the tree protection ordinance. The applicant confirmed no further western expansion and plans for a safety railing on the retaining wall. No public comments were received.

Conditional use permit for two 10 resident licensed residential care facilities at 2000 Hopkins Crossroad

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Johnson [1:25:30] · Seconded by Commissioner Brink [1:26:00]

The proposal involved demolishing the vacant 1920 Oaknull Elementary School building to construct two 10-bedroom licensed residential care facilities for individuals with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff noted that while retaining the historic building was explored, it was deemed economically unfeasible. The design included two one-story buildings, extensive parking, three engineered rain gardens for stormwater management (one with a secure community feature), and a commitment to preserving historical elements like the school sign and salvaged bricks. An email of support was received from a neighbor, praising the use and operator's reputation. Commissioners lauded the project as a well-designed, much-needed community asset.