PC 022212 - Laserfiche WebLink

Ms. Stern replied that it would not be precluded but may require a use permit because it does have frontage on Main Street. She added that the Commission would view this case accordingly because it is not something that is preventing activity on Main Street. Chair Pentin indicated that he is then more comfortable with the revisions using "discourage" as it gives the Commission some opportunity to view cases such as these, rather than having the previous one which indicates that financial institutions cannot come in unless it will be replacing a pre- existing institution. Commissioner Narum noted that there are a lot of permitted uses in the C -C District. She indicated while she understands the thinking behind the amendment and certainly supports and wants to do anything and everything to make the Downtown more alive and have more vitality, she has a bit of discomfort in singling out one of the uses. She inquired if there would be any consideration, as staff time allows, to look at all the uses. She noted that if the Commission adopts this tonight and she were a salon owner on Main Street, she would come in and ask why salons are not being regulated as there are already enough salons on Main Street. She added that she would not know what the answer to that would be because she tends not to believe in regulating uses, but rather, in letting the market drive them. Mr. Dolan stated that he did have a conversation with the City Manager this morning about that issue. He noted that staff knew that when it comes forward with this, people will ask the question why staff is not looking at some of these other uses that have the reputation for not bringing the most vitality and foot traffic, one of which is definitely the salons. He stated that this is a more complicated issue and is something staff should look into at some point. He noted that it would take more time and that at this point, staff is trying to respond to a very real situation, and the bank use appears to be much more clear, particularly because they seem to be attracted to these really critical corners. He noted that Ms. Bonn identified that the vast majority of the banks are on these corners; no salons actually occupy a corner. Mr. Dolan stated that staff actually did a quick survey today of salons in the Downtown area. He indicated that there are 18 salons on Main Street, although that number is slightly inflated because some of them are on the second floor, and some have a Main Street address but are located somewhere around the back of the lot as mentioned in an earlier discussion. He continued that the salons are further classified into hair only (11), hair and nails (2), nails only (5), skin care (3), spa (2), and tanning salon (1). He added that there are probably a few others. Mr. Dolan stated that he felt this needs a more protracted discussion; it is something worth talking about but requires more time. He noted that staff is certainly open to considering this in the future when staff resources allow. Commissioner Narum inquired if staff would you be open to the Commission including in the motion something that said that the Commission supports the Code amendment and PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, February 22, 2012 Page 5 of 7