Former Uhlir’s Orchard Property to Become Automotive Repair Shop

Faribault Mayor Kevin Voracek reported on KDHL today there was considerable discussion during the Tuesday City Council meeting concerning a resolution rezoning property on the city's east side.

The former Uhlir's Orchard seasonal sales building at 1507 St. Paul Avenue was purchased recently by Michael and Megan Graham of Faribault.

They intend to convert the building into a custom car building shop with auto repair service use.  The business will include fabrication of custom vehicles along with auto maintenance and repair services.  It will not include autobody and paint services.

The Grahams requested the property be re-zoned to C-2 Highway Commercial.

Voracek says, "The Development Review Committee recommended against the requested change.  I usually say at the end of the day it's all about who buys the property and what they really want to do with it is how it's use is guided.  We actually did allow that property to be re-zoned for that business to go into that space.  So you'll actually see that property cleaned up soon. I think it's actually been about 15 years since anything decent has been in there so that will be nice."

Voracek added there was considerable discussion because of the DRC denial recommendation. "So the planning commission actually voted 5-1 to approve it and the council agreed with the planning commission with one nay vote.  So that'll be interesting.  Hopefully the property owners will be good neighbors.  We think a neighborhood car shop will be okay .  It'll fit the neighborhood well.  The question though is now that it's zoned C-2 what happens if they ever go out of business. What could go in there then?"

I said the City Council could address the issue on a case by case business.  Mayor Voracek agreed saying, " It wouldn't be the worst spot for something like a Casey's gas station or little convenience store.  Think about back in the day there used to be all these neighborhood convenience markets like Minnick's.  I think that would be a good spot for one on the edge of two fairly busy county roads."

Here's a little trip down memory lane.