GLENWOOD SPRINGS – It’s decision time for the Planning and Zoning Commission. After three lengthy meetings during the past month to review requested permits and variances for Target, Lowe’s and other smaller stores at Glenwood Meadows, the planning board’s final decision is expected tonight at its monthly regular meeting. The commission will make recommendations on whether the largest commercial development in the city’s history will be granted a major development permit. The board will also decide on a list of variances and special review uses. Once the board makes its decisions, the project will still need City Council approval. The overall concept for Glenwood Meadows was approved in 2002 by the planning commission and City Council. Glenwood Meadows hired commercial developer Miller Weingarten of Englewood to build the retail buildings, and they are now seeking development permits from the city to get started.The developers sought to get out of the requirement to build second-story apartments over the smaller stores along Market Street.Discussion also focused on how building a debris flow basin could affect the timeline of the project, and whether the rooftop mechanical devices will be adequately screened. The actions requested of the planning commission for Glenwood Meadows commercial component included:-A major development permit-A special review use permit to allow a design feature at the main entrance to Lowe’s that’s 45 feet high. -A special review use permit to allow a 55-foot tower at Target. -Zoning and design variances for parking. -Design variances regarding rooftop mechanical and utility equipment screening and setbacks. -Design variances eliminating the mixed use and two-story elevation requirements on Market Street. -A design variance exempting Lowe’s from the requirement that a side of the store be wrapped with an independent retail building.Contact Greg Mass: 945-8515, ext. 511gmasse@postindependent.com

Consideration of an application by the owners of Sears, who are seeking a major development permit to build a new store on Devereux Road. -Consideration of a special use permit and a major development permit for new storage buildings on Devereux Road. -Discussion of an amendment of the city code to allow international flags. -Consideration of a shared-use parking plan for St. Barnabas Church and Valley View Hospital.