_Minutes_August 14, 2019 - Laserfiche WebLink

Robert Gonella spoke as a member of the board of directors of the Homeowners Association (HOA) in the neighboring community. He expressed his shock and distaste for this type of use, especially given the vicinity to a neighboring park and apartment complex. Axes are not similar to a bowling ball or bocce ball and he believes the Planning Commission's role is to keep the community safe. He also thought it was very unsafe for people to be drinking alcohol while throwing axes and cited potential issues after the activity was done with people exiting the business. Rebuttal—Applicant Mr. Hill expressed that he does not see the correlation between the recent shootings that have occurred and an indoor recreational environment. He also stated that he did not think celebrities performing axe-throwing on various television shows would be promoting something of violence. He stated someone could easily walk across the street to the hardware store and purchase various axes or other items that could be used as weapons, but this does not mean people will use the axes for violence. He also expressed that he has been to several other similar facilities and has never experienced negative behavior. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Brown inquired as to the authority bestowed upon the Planning Commission ahead of making a decision on such a use. Mr. Dolan responded that the Commission has full discretion and authority to review all matters at hand, where they can agree or disagree with the characterization of the particular use, including considering safety when making a decision. Commissioner Ritter inquired about parking for each business in this location. Ms. Hagen responded that the shopping center was approved for shared parking. The property owner has the discretion and latitude to set time limits to manage parking, but overall the parking is shared. Chair Allen inquired whether the owner of the shopping center has expressed concern over parking or other issues. Ms. Hagen stated the property owner has not contacted the City with any concerns and has authorized submittal of the application and is in negotiations with a contingency lease to sign with this applicant. Commissioner Brown inquired whether there has been concern about the adjacent office space. Ms. Hagen noted it is a construction management office and staff has not received any correspondence or concerns. Chair Allen clarified that the space is a showroom for selling home design versus just construction. Planning Commission Minutes Page 6 of 9 August 14, 2019 said pictures online displayed a person's face on a target which is a sign of aggression. She said people are being killed through violence on a daily basis and the thought of equating axe throwing to bowling is not appropriate in her opinion. Planning Commission Minutes Page 5 of 9 August 14, 2019 xt to in other locations does extremely well. Commissioner O'Connor inquired how to control alcohol consumption, either before or during the activity session, and questioned axe throwing activities while consuming alcohol. Planning Commission Minutes Page 4 of 9 August 14, 2019