A special Pella City Council meeting is scheduled this evening.

During regular business, an ordinance relating to the sale of fireworks by restricting that use to industrial zones will have a second reading.

Following the meeting, a Policy and Planning session is scheduled to talk about a proposed microbrewery. The session was scheduled after the Planning and Zoning Commission had questions pertaining to the size of the proposed business, food sales, and changing the city’s proposed patron age limit. Gezellig Brewing Company is trying to start a microbrewery in Pella, and has been in contact with the city council and other staff and boards since last summer.

According to the city staff memo, these key areas will be talked about:
– Proposed Microbrewery Definition – “The intention of the proposed microbrewery is to be a family-friendly destination attraction for the City of Pella. The primary use for the microbrewery would be the brewery component, while food sales would be an accessory use,” the city memo reads.

– Size and Scale – Planning and Zoning had questions related to whether additional regulations should be added to dictate which zoning districts a microbrewery could be located in. The city council packet includes details about the special use permit process, and that under the proposed ordinance, Gezellig would have to pass approval of the Board of Adjustment for a permit. Also, floor space for brewing would be restricted to 50% for manufacturing.

– Food Sales and Patron Age Limits – Currently, Pella City Code restricts anyone under the age of 21 from being on the premises of an establishment with a liquor license, with exceptions for restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Gezellig has proposed to allow families to gather at the microbrewery, and city staff notes that numerous microbreweries in Iowa allow patrons under the age of 21 to be in their facilities.

– Proposed Zoning Districts – the current ordinance under consideration would allow microbreweries in all commercial zoning districts except for the Central Business District. Some of the Planning and Zoning Commission members were concerned about their operation in a mixed commercial district (CUC), with their proximity to residential areas. City staff believes the special use permit process–which includes neighborhood input, would settle any potential disputes.

City staff is seeking direction and input from the city council before returning the matter to the Planning and Zoning Commission for formal action. The special city council meeting begins at 6 p.m. Monday in the Public Safety Complex on Liberty Street.

Click here for the full staff memo.