The Brooklyn Park Planning Commission put a potential rezoning decision on hold after multiple residents spoke out against the proposal at an Aug. 12 meeting.

The parcel in question, located near the intersection of Lakeland and 64th avenues north, is currently owner-occupied and features a single family home. To the north is another home, and to the south is an auto repair shop.

According to Senior Planner Erin McDermott, the owner is proposing a small mixed-use development for the property, adding retail space and hotel accommodations onto the existing building. The property would have to be rezoned to a transit-oriented development center to allow for the new intended uses.

“At the time of my initial meeting with the applicant, it was proposed that they would like to preserve the single family home and add three apartments for family members, in addition to the small retail spaces,” McDermott said. “At the time of application, they indicated that those apartments would still remain and that there would be an additional area for hotel services. Those would be permitted uses within the [transit oriented development] zoning district.”

McDermott noted the property is located near the proposed METRO Blue Line Extension. It would be within walking distance from the 63rd Avenue Station that will be constructed if the light rail project moves forward.

A letter from the applicant, Si Tang, outlines a more detailed vision for the property.

“My upbringing in Saigon and my travels to many countries with vibrant street markets have inspired a vision for this site that incorporates global food and cultural experiences. I plan to use the ground level for small international food stands, fresh produce vendors, unique retail shops, and even a small indoor tank for fresh shrimp catch-and-cook services,” Tang wrote. “These offerings would provide fast, convenient, and family-friendly experiences for residents and visitors alike.”

Tang also highlighted the hotel accommodations on the upper level “would benefit from the property’s easy access to the airport and nearby tourist attractions via the light rail system.”

Four Brooklyn Park residents who live near the 6408 Lakeland Ave. N. property spoke during a public hearing regarding the proposal. All voiced some level of reservation about the property no longer being entirely residential, with some encouraging the planning commission to delay the vote.

After nearly an hour of discussion, the commission voted 6-1 to continue the discussion at their next meeting, scheduled for Sept. 9. McDermott said city staff would analyze Lakeland Avenue’s ability to accommodate increased traffic and water main usage that a transit-oriented development might cause.

If approved at the next planning commission meeting, the proposed rezoning would go to the Brooklyn Park City Council for final consideration. Approval of rezoning would not immediately translate to any construction on the property.