Plan_Commission_minutes_2015-03-25_approved

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Ms. Hurwitz and Ms. McGraw explained the proposal to the Plan Commission members. The proposal was for a fast, casual pizza restaurant, their first restaurant in the St. Louis area. They explained the proposed layout, outdoor dining area, and their intent to sell beer and wine. Questions / Comments and Discussion -Plan Commission members asked staff about the current ratio of restaurants in The Loop. Staff stated there were currently 42% restaurants among ground floor tenant spaces in The Loop. -Plan Commission members also enquired about other similar restaurants in the area. The applicant stated this would be the first of its kind in St. Louis. Mr. Greatens summarized the s restaurant would be compatible and consistent with surrounding uses. Staff recommended approval with conditions in attachment B of the staff report. The Chairperson opened the public hearing. Public Comments Ms. Dorothy Carpenter 515 Westgate Avenue, expressed concern about the changing proportion of businesses in The Loop and too many restaurants moving in which was a threat to the existing pattern and could deter retail businesses. She stated that restaurants bring crowds and could potentially hurt property values in the area. She stated she was also concerned about potential noise from the proposed restaurant. Ms. Anne Dollimore 6305 Pershing Avenue, expressed concern about the proposed hours of operation and potential impact on the area. She stated that The Loop was not just for tourists and the surrounding property owners should not be neglected. She was also concerned about the trend toward more restaurants. Mr. Dan Wald 8420 Delmar Boulevard, property owner, stated he owned the property since 1983 which was previously Ziezo, a retail business. He stated that he worked with the applicant for a long time and that the proposal would not alter the balance of businesses in The Loop. The Chairperson closed the public hearing. The applicant addressed the public comments and stated that the proposed restaurant would not have a bar for patrons to only order liquor. She explained the proposed hours of operation and that there would be seating for 53 inside with additional seating outside proposed. Questions / Comments and Discussion -Plan Commission members asked about the proposed hours of operation in comparison with other restaurants. Staff pointed out that the proposed hours of operation would be similar to other restaurants. -Plan Commission members discussed the concerns raised about the ratio of restaurants in The Loop compared to retail and that it was an issue that must be addressed by City Council at some point in the future. tğŭĻ Ћ ƚŅ Ў