Set September 8, 2025, as the date of public hearing to review an ordinance allowing apartments as a conditional use in the B-3, Highway Business District and performance standards for the proposed ordinance amendment.

Set September 8, 2025, as the date of hearing to review the proposed ordinance.

As part of the City of Mankato’s Strategic Plan and in alignment with the recommendations of the Housing Study, staff are initiating a discussion on refining the City’s development processes to better support community growth and housing needs. At the Mankato Economic Development Authority Meeting on August 11, 2025, the Economic Development Authority authorized drafting an ordinance allowing apartments as a conditional use in the B-3, Highway Business District and performance standards for the proposed ordinance amendment. The requested action is to set September 8, 2025, as the date of hearing to review the proposed ordinance.
 
Over the past three years, the City has reviewed nine applications for Land Use Plan amendments to accommodate residential development. Of these, five involved amending the designation from commercial to residential. The current process requiring both a Land Use Plan amendment and subsequent rezoning can influence the readiness and timing of projects. By evaluating these processes, the City can identify opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce procedural barriers, and better position Mankato for housing development.