07-13-11 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION JUNE 9, 2011 Wenner reported that his business has been growing over the past 5 to 10 years, and he would like to purchase this site as an expansion of his business. Knudsen asked why outdoor storage. Wenner replied that cost is the factor. To build a building to house the amount of storage he is proposing would be cost prohibitive. Wenner felt that the site was a good one for what he is proposing and noted the large buildings along Country Drive provide screening. Again, the product stored outdoors would be uniformly bundled and stacked. Wenner reported that the taxes on the property are substantial, it is a sizeable lot, and the property has soil issues. Wenner indicated that they are using the buildings to their capacity. He indicated that they would also like an extension of the current PUD for building expansion, but was unsure when a building expansion might occur. Wenner felt it would depend on the economy and when demand for their high grade lumber increased. Knudsen felt the business was a good one, and asked if Wenner was open to an interim use permit for the outdoor storage. Wenner indicated that without a permanent approval of outdoor storage, they would not purchase the property. Wenner felt this was a great opportunity for their company, the facility was a good one, and noted that what they are proposing to do is not unlike the former Knox Lumber use. Duray asked if Wenner would be purchasing the complete property. Wenner replied that they would purchase the entire 7.6 acre site. Duray asked about building expansion. Wenner stated that they are optimistic that their business will continue to grow and they will need additional indoor storage, However, given the type of business they are in, Weimer indicated that the majority of their product can be stored outside. Knudsen pointed out the City's efforts in Iimiting outdoor storage as a primary use. Knudsen noted that if this request is approved, additional similar requests will be made. Knudsen agreed that the argument can be made that the outdoor storage will not hurt anything and will he neat and orderly. However, the property could change hands and another owner may not do as good ajiob. Wenner felt that this site was about as perfect a place as you could get for outdoor storage. Knudsen stated that he understood that Wenner was not willing to buy a property with an uncertain future and is, therefore, seeking a PUD for permanent outdoor storage. Knudsen felt the issue would be easier if Wenner could establish a timeframe for constructing another building. Duray indicated that the Council and Commission have worked hard to curtail outdoor storage. He also pointed out that this property and the - 3 - 17