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CUP26-005 — Research and development facility providing metallurgical, chemical, and process engineering support and design services for critical mineral projects (rare earth minerals); approximately 4,114 sq. ft. of combined floor area across three units in Lakeland, FL
Critical Minerals to Metals Corp. seeks a Conditional Use Permit to relocate and expand their research and development facility from a 1,725 sq. ft. space in Building C to 4,114 sq. ft. across three units in Building A of Ruthven Airpark. The company provides metallurgical and engineering support services focused on critical minerals and rare earth elements used in advanced manufacturing. Staff recommends approval with conditions; the Commission approved the motion 5-0.
| Case number | CUP26-005 |
|---|---|
| Type | Specific Use Permit |
| Location | Units 12, 13 and 14, Building A, Ruthven Airpark, south of Drane Field Road and west of Lakeland Linder International Airport |
| County | Polk County |
| Parcel / legal | Units 12, 13 and 14, Building A, Ruthven Airpark commercial condominium |
| Current zoning | PUD (Planned Unit Development) |
| Proposed use | Research and development facility providing metallurgical, chemical, and process engineering support and design services for critical mineral projects (rare earth minerals); approximately 4,114 sq. ft. of combined floor area across three units |
| Petitioner | Andrew Gillespie, Critical Minerals to Metals Corp |
| Owner | Critical Minerals to Metals Corp. |
| Hearing | 2026-09-15 |
| Hearing body | Lakeland Planning & Zoning Commission |
| Staff recommendation | approve with conditions |
| Record | First seen on an agenda; not a decision |
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Case history
Every time this case appeared on an agenda we watched, and what changed.
- First seen — 2026-09-28: First seen on a Lakeland Planning & Zoning Commission agenda · Lakeland Planning & Zoning Commission
- Staff recommendation — 2026-09-15: Staff recommendation: approve with conditions · Lakeland Planning & Zoning Commission
Also on the 2026-09-15 Lakeland agenda
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