A request by real estate developer Scott Schmidt to construct two self-storage buildings on vacant parcels he owns in Belle Plaine, Minn., was rejected this week by the city council. In a 4-0 vote, the council agreed with the planning commission’s recommendation to decline a self-storage project proposed for the southeast corner of Court Street and North Meridian Street.

Schmidt told the council a storage facility would be a “good fit” and could act as a buffer between the downtown area and nearby residences, which includes apartment complexes, the source reported. Two others also spoke in favor of the development.

Mayor Mike Pingalore read a letter from the city’s planning commissioner, Anthony Hetzel, outlining the commission’s reasons for denying the request. Their primary concern centered on the area’s zoning, the source reported. The city staff also recommended vetoing the development.

Council Member Scott Schneider, who’s also the council’s liaison to the planning commission, previously voted in favor of an ordinance amendment that would permit self-storage in the area. Although Schneider said he could go either way on the vote, ultimately, the request was denied.

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