NEW ULM — The city’s Planning Commission on Thursday unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a winery in the business district.
The action came on a motion by Commissioner Mike Furth, seconded by Dave Munson, to recommend with conditions the application by Paul Neyers, on behalf of Doppeleichen Vineyards and FN Properties, to operate a winery on a property at 225 and 227 N. Minnesota St. and 509, 511, and 513 3rd St. North.
Terms include Neyers paying the permit registration fee with the Brown County Registrar’s office and obtaining and maintaining the state and federal licenses necessary to license the farm’s winery. No outdoor storage will be permitted and the winery will be required to comply with city requirements for outdoor seating.
City Council will review the permit on March 1.
Neyers said he intended the existing business to remain in its location. He said repairs to the back of the buildings and the replacement of a number of windows were being assessed.
“I think it’s a nice addition for downtown,” said commissioner Larry Mack.
“I think it’s fabulous” Commission President Annie Earl said.
Doppeleichen Vineyards plans to ferment, age, bottle and sell wine from the places of application. Initial plans are to convert vacant spaces on North 3rd Street that once housed KLXP Radio and Dan Steffl Insurance.
Plans include repairing a failing wall that adjoins the driveway between Minnesota and Broadway streets. The spaces will primarily serve as a wine-making space with a limited number of tastings and other retail functions, including wine tours. A few sidewalk tables will be used in mild weather.
The space at 225 N. Minnesota St. now housing the MonaLena Kitchen and Bar will have a bigger place as a retail outlet for Doppeleichen Vineyards. The project includes an existing kitchen and bar, as well as indoor and outdoor patio space.
City staff recommended approving the permit as it complies with city code. The proposed use is of the same general character as other permitted uses in Zoning District B-3 and is compatible with adjacent land uses.
In other matters, the commission unanimously approved the final fifth flat of Milford Heights on a motion by Dave Munson seconded by Larry Mack.
The 5.48-acre decked area will extend Waraju Avenue from Beinhorn Street to 7th Street North. It will create 20 lots and accommodate 10 twin houses, five on each side of Waraju Avenue.
Pending terms include a $475 plating fee and entering into a development deal. Notice has been provided to the land surveyor and the necessary easements are provided. The rezoning of the property must be included in the adoption of the new zoning ordinance.
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