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Posted: June 26, 2025
Rapid City
Agenda Item Summary

Agenda Item Ref. #: 25VA009 - Northern Heights Subdivision

Agenda Item Title:

25VA009 - Variance to allow a 2,400 square-foot temporary tent in lieu of the 200 square-foot maximum and to allow the tent to be located on the property until August 19, 2025 in lieu of the 14-day maximum

Origination Group:
Planning Commission
Origination Meeting Date:
06/26/2025
Petitioner:
Wambli Ska Community Development Okolakiciye
Staff Contact:
Tanner Halonen, Current Planner III
Location:
1601 Haines Avenue
Agenda Item Summary:
The applicant has submitted a Variance request to allow a 2,400 square-foot temporary tent in lieu of the 200 square-foot maximum and to allow the tent to be located on the property until August 19, 2025 in lieu of the 14-day maximum. The subject property is comprised of 0.6 acres of land zoned General Commercial District and was previously occupied by the Loaf N Jug gas station. On March 20, 2025 the applicant obtained a Building Permit (CIBP25-0162) to use the existing building to process and retail meat and to sell tallow-based body products and ceremonial items. A final inspection for this permit has yet to be completed. The property is owned by Wabli Ska Society which describes themselves as a “native-led organization committed to advancing the well-being, self-determination, and sovereignty of Indigenous communities.” The applicant recently placed a 2,400 square foot temporary tent in the northwest corner of the property, the tent has a mean height of 13.5 feet and is proposed to remain onsite until August 19, 2025. The applicant’s letter of intent indicates that the temporary structure will provide cover for Indigenous artists sharing traditional stories and original works, offer refuge from the sun, and create room for intergenerational exchange. The sidewalls of the tent will stay unattached to allow for airflow and visibility. All events will be held on intermittent Saturdays, while the tent will remain on the property through the summer the use of the tent will be limited to 12 hours each Saturday and there will be licensed security for the duration of each event. The applicant’s food truck will be parked onsite and during events will serve Indigenous cuisine to community members. No alcohol will be served or allowed on the premise. Four picnic tables will be provided underneath the structure which will provide seating for up to 24 people. Temporary structures are regulated under §17.50.230 of the Rapid City Municipal Code (RCMC) and require the review and approval of a Temporary Use Permit application. As per RCMC §17.50.230.H.1 temporary structures may not exceed 200 square feet in floor area. The existing tent is 2,400 square feet in size which is a deviation of 2,200 square feet. As per RCMC §17.50.230.H.3 a temporary use may occupy a property for not more than 14 days and shall vacate the property for a period of 180 days. The tent is proposed to remain on the property until August 19, 2025 which is more than the 14-day maximum.

Funding Source & Fiscal Impact (if applicable):

Funding Cost Center

Recommendations:

Origination Recommendation Action:
Approve with Stipulations
Origination Recommendation Notes:
If the Zoning Board of Adjustment determines that the Variance request meets the approval criteria then this request may be approved with the stipulations noted at the end of the report or if the Zoning Board of Adjustment determines that the Variance request does not meet these criteria they may choose to deny the request Zoning Board of Adjustment Approved with Stipulations (8-0-1 with Heikes Abstaining): 6/26/2025

Attachments & Links to Download:

25VA009 Project Report

25VA009 Attachments

Published in 2025 - PL Agenda Items

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