The Nampa Planning and Zoning Commission met on July 30, 2025, to consider three conditional use permit applications. All items were approved unanimously with conditions. The meeting included discussions on outdoor storage at a Lowe's store, a home-based firearm records retention business, and a commercial daycare in a multi-family residential zone. Conditional Use Permit for Lowe's Outdoor Storage and Display - Applicant: Brandon McDougaled (Kimley Horn Associates) and KK Yao (Lowe's) sought a conditional use permit to allow outdoor storage and seasonal sales (nursery, bulky retail, trailers, etc.) at 1400 Caldwell Boulevard. The request stemmed from a code enforcement complaint regarding non-enclosed storage in the parking lot, which had increased since the store opened in 2003 and especially after COVID-19. - Discussion: Commissioners questioned the need for additional storage (efficiency vs. demand). KK Yao cited customer demand and seasonal turnover. Staff planner Christy Watkins noted that the current parking layout (552 spaces, including 4 ADA) was designed for general retail; using a 50% bulky/50% general retail split would show overparking. The Fire Department raised concerns about vertical clearance for ladder trucks near the building. A late comment from an adjacent property owner cited CCRs against exterior display, but staff clarified that the city does not enforce CCRs. The applicant agreed to all conditions, including providing at least 11 ADA spaces (two van-accessible) and ensuring fire access. - Outcome: Motion to approve carried unanimously. The conditional use permit becomes effective 15 days after written decision unless appealed. Conditional Use Permit for Firearm Service (Home Occupation) - Applicant: David James, requesting to retain his Federal Firearms License (FFL) and store business records at his residence at 719 South Diamond Street (RS-6 zoning). He is retiring from firearm sales but must keep records. No sales or changes to the exterior are proposed. - Discussion: Commissioners clarified that a business is required to hold an FFL; Mr. James confirmed that he and his wife are the responsible parties, and the home occupation permit would cover this. Staff noted the use complies with home occupation standards and no adverse impacts are expected. - Outcome: Unanimous approval with conditions (compliance with codes, home occupation permit required). Effective 15 days after written decision. Conditional Use Permit for Commercial Daycare - Applicant: Randy Hopkins (property owner) and Crystal McFarlane (operator of Brightstone daycare) for a commercial daycare at 504 East Florida Avenue (RML zone). The building has historically been a daycare, but the permit does not transfer with ownership. The new operator will serve approximately 35 children after school starts. - Discussion: Staff confirmed the use is unchanged from prior operation. A building permit application is required to show compliance with current building code. No public opposition. - Outcome: Unanimous approval with conditions. Effective 15 days after written decision. Key Outcomes - Lowe's Conditional Use Permit: Approved unanimously. - Firearm Service Conditional Use Permit: Approved unanimously. - Commercial Daycare Conditional Use Permit: Approved unanimously. - All permits become effective 15 calendar days from the date of the written decision unless appealed. No action may be taken until the appeal period concludes.
