Planning Commission Meeting 7/16/26

The CTN Coon Rapids Planning Commission held a meeting on July 16, 2026, primarily to consider planning case 26-23, a request for use flexibility to allow the Star of the North Academy, a K-8 charter school, to operate within the largely vacant Family Center Mall at 2891 Rapids Boulevard. The commission reviewed the proposed site improvements, including exterior painting, lighting, parking lot repairs, and a future outdoor play area, with a condition that these upgrades be completed within two years. The property is pending purchase by the applicant, who plans to lease the space to the school. Public comments raised concerns about traffic, the suitability of the location for a school, and the condition of the property. After discussion, the commission approved the use flexibility with 11 conditions focused on site improvements and timelines. Additionally, the commission briefly mentioned an upcoming application for Vermac Window Manufacturing on a vacant industrial site, to be reviewed in August.