August 11, 2025 · 5:30 PM

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission voted unanimously to recommend changes to the St. Mark’s Square development plan, including two 4-unit apartment buildings and added parking. Commissioners also started exploring a new rule that would force a mowed “buffer” around vacant lots to reduce fire risk and pests.

Key Decisions

Commissioners unanimously recommended City Council approval for an updated St. Mark’s Square plan at 1110 Victory St., including converting the former convent into 4 apartments, building a new 4-unit building, and adding parking—on a 3-year completion deadline and with no exterior changes to the convent.

The commission signaled interest in requiring a mowed perimeter around undeveloped properties (discussed as a 10-foot buffer) to help with fire breaks and pest control, but staff still needs to research how other cities handle enforcement—especially where native grasses are involved.

Public Input

No public comments or communications recorded for this meeting.

Agenda Items

Review proposed amendment to a previously approved PUD plan for St. Mark’s Square located at 1110 Victory Street, submitted by Curt Gesell, applicant and owner.

Passed 7-0

The commission reviewed an amended development plan for St. Mark’s Square now owned by Curt Gesell (not including the school lot). The plan is to convert the former convent into a 4-unit apartment building, build a new 4-unit building to the south, and add some parking; the applicant said the exterior of the convent would not change and the site is currently vacant. The commission recommended City Council approval with conditions: no exterior changes to the convent and the project must be completed within 3 years, with additional reviews still required before construction (site/architectural review and building inspection).

📄 See in official document: Page 1

Roll call vote 7 yes

Matt Heckenlaible yes

Rick Inman yes

Pat Klein yes

Kay Koach yes

Kyle Kordell yes

Kristin Lee yes

Adam Wachowski yes

planned unit development pud Full history → st marks square Full history →

Discussion of Possible Ordinance Amendment to Create a Requirement for a Mowed Perimeter Zone Around Undeveloped Properties—For Purposes of Providing a Fire Break and Pest Control

Commissioners discussed whether the city should require a mowed perimeter around undeveloped properties, with members talking about a 10-foot buffer to reduce tall grass, rodents, and spillover impacts on neighbors. The minutes note the current ordinance is vague on weeds and turf grass, and that native grasses could make enforcement tricky. Staff was directed to research what other municipalities do—meaning this is still in the idea stage, but it could become a new property-maintenance requirement residents will want to weigh in on if it moves forward.

📄 See in official document: Page 1

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