NEW ULM — The city’s Planning Commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a farm winery in the general business district Thursday.

Action came on a motion by Commissioner Mike Furth, second by Dave Munson, to recommend with conditions the application of Paul Neyers, on behalf of Doppeleichen Vineyards and FN Properties to operate a winery on property located at 225 and 227 N. Minnesota St. and 509, 511 and 513 3rd North Street.

Conditions include Neyers paying the cost to record the permit with the Brown County Recorder’s Office and securing and maintaining necessary state and federal licenses to permit the farm winery. No exterior storage will be permitted, and the winery will be required to comply with city outdoor seating requirements.

The City Council will consider the permit March 1.

Neyers said he intends for the the existing business to stay at its location. He said repairs to the rear of the buildings and replacing a number of windows are being appraised.

“I think it’s a nice addition for the downtown,” said Commissioner Larry Mack.

“I think it’s fabulous,” said Commission Chairwoman Annie Earl.

Doppeleichen Vineyards plans to ferment, age, bottle and sell wine from the application locations. Initial plans are to convert vacant spaces on 3rd North Street that formerly housed KLXP radio and Dan Steffl Insurance.

Plans include repairing a failing wall that abuts the alley between Minnesota and Broadway streets. The spaces will primarily serve as wine manufacturing space with limited amounts of tasting and other retail functions including winery tours. A couple of sidewalk tables will be used during mild weather.

The space at 225 N. Minnesota St. now housing the MonaLena Kitchen and Bar will have a more prominent place as a retail outlet for Doppeleichen Vineyards. The project includes an existing kitchen and bar, plus interior and exterior patio space.

City staff recommended approving the permit because it complies with the city code. The proposed use is of the same general character of other permitted uses of the B-3 Zoning district and is compatible with adjoining land uses.

In other business, the commission unanimously approved the Milford Heights fifth addition final plat on a motion by Dave Munson seconded by Larry Mack.

The 5.48-acre platted area will extend Waraju Avenue from Beinhorn Street to 7th North Street. It will create 20 lots and accommodate 10 twin homes, five on each side of Waraju Avenue.

Conditions pending include a $475 platting fee and entering into a development agreement. Notice has been provide to the land survey and necessary easements are provided. Property rezoning to be included in new zoning ordinance adoption.