The Waukesha Plan Commission meeting on August 27, 2025, focused on two significant conditional use permit applications: one for a home-based cigar business and another for a coffee shop's storage solution.

The first item discussed was the conditional use permit for James Gunther Cigars, proposed at 3725 Stillwater Court. The applicant, a cigar enthusiast, seeks to operate a wholesale cigar business from his duplex condo, primarily for personal use, with limited sales to friends and family. Staff noted that while this type of business typically falls under home occupations, it requires a conditional use permit due to regulations prohibiting the sale of stock not manufactured on-site. Staff recommended approval, citing that the business would not disrupt the neighborhood, provided that all sales occur via delivery and no on-site customer interactions take place. The proposal received support from local residents, including a member of the Homeowners Association Board, who stated there were no objections to the request.

The second item involved a conditional use permit for Cafe d'Arts, located at 830 West Saint Paul Avenue. The coffee shop, which has been operating for a long time, seeks to add a shipping container for storage of green coffee beans before roasting. The proposed container would occupy two parking spaces but is deemed necessary for pest prevention and proper storage conditions. Staff recommended approval of the permit, with conditions that the container be painted within 30 days and that the design be approved by city staff. The proposal also included a minor site plan and architectural review, which received similar recommendations.

Overall, both proposals reflect the city's ongoing efforts to accommodate local businesses while ensuring compliance with zoning regulations. The commission's next steps will involve further review and final decisions on these applications.