02-08-07 Planning Comm. Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 8, 2007 The City Planner reviewed his report dated February 2, 2007 and noted that should the Commission wish to allow the auto repair hobby use to continue on an interim basis, a development contract could be drafted to govern how the use would continue. The Planner recommended that the interim use be for a period of one year. If the property is not sold in that timeframe, the applicant could apply for an extension of the interim use permit. Montreux stated that she had an issue with the one year limitation, and noted that the property has been for sale for the past three years. Montreux indicated that there have been prospective buyers for the City, but each time the buyer has run into road blocks with the City. Duray indicated that he favored a time limit on the interim use. He also noted that there is a lot of junk on the property. Montreux pointed out that there is a mess on the opposite side of the railroad tracks as well. That area is not part of Ann Trobec's property. Helmeke asked about the problems that potential buyers have faced from the City. Montreux indicated that an insurance business had wanted to purchase the property, occupy the house for their business, as well as continue renting the back buildings. The City indicated that the back buildings could not be rented given there was no water or bathroom facilities. The loss of the rental income was a deal breaker. There was also a buyer interested inputting together several parcels for a redevelopment project. That buyer backed out, and Montreux was not sure why. Montreux stated that she was not clear on what Little Canada wants for the area, and indicated that any prospective buyer is sent to the City for information on what is allowed for the property. Montreux stated that she currently has someone who is interested in utilizing the warehouse for a reception hall. Duray asked the condition of the house. Montreux stated that the house was in good condition, but she did not think the property could be used as residential. Montreux stated that she would like to continue renting to Mr. Anderson. He has been a good tenant, and it has been beneficial to have him on the property given that the house is vacant. Mr. Anderson works on cars as a hobby and has a couple of his buddies there with him. He has rented this space for the past seven years. Montreux indicated that she would as Mr. Anderson if he would make some improvements to the front of the property. Montreux stated that there is a little bit of outdoor storage behind the warehouse abutting the railroad property. Duray stated that it is more than a little bit of outdoor storage. Duray pointed out that the City Planner outlined five recommendations in his February 2"~ report that should be complied with if the Commission feels -7-