In a special meeting Wednesday, the City of Pella Planning and Zoning Commission tied in two separate votes to conditionally approve or deny a site plan submitted for reconsideration by Casey’s General Store.

The move effectively tables the matter until the City Council considers an amendment to change the city’s comprehensive plan to conform to the current zoning in place.

The commission recommended denying an amendment to change to future land use map in the comprehensive plan to conform to the zoning ordinance on a 6-4 vote.

Casey’s is attempting to build a new store at the corner of Main and Union Streets in Pella to replace three smaller locations in town. The meeting lasted three hours in front of a capacity crowd at the Public Safety Complex.

According to city code, Chapter 165.36 (3) (F) requires the Planning and Zoning Commission to make the following findings before approval of the site plan:

A. The proposed development is in accordance with the criteria established in Table 165.36/37-1. For
B. Any modifications to the site plan are reasonable and the minimum necessary to minimize potential
C. The site plan conforms to the Zoning Ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan.

Debate centered around point c, and arguments were made during a lengthy public hearing from both members of the neighborhood, other residents, and representatives from Casey’s.

Stay tuned to KNIA/KRLS for more details.