04-23-08 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTIrS CITY COUNCIL APRIL 23, 2008 Doug Yetzer, Quality Contracting, reported that they have been in Little Canada since 1992. Quality Contracting wants to be in good standing with the City, and wants to work with the City to ensure that they can continue operating in their present location. Yetzer explained their need for off-site outdoor storage -storing gas piping off-site during summer months and equipment during the winter months. Yetzer noted that the Rossow property is adjacent to Quality Contracting's site and would be very convenient to the rest of their yard. Yetzer reported that they have made improvements to their property and will continue to do so. Dave Holm, On-Site Sanitation, 53 and 95 Woodlyn Avenue, reported that every lot is not conducive to the restriction that outdoor storage must be behind the front building line. Holm cited his property as an example, and indicated that if he had to move his outdoor storage back behind the front line of the building, he would lose a lot of storage area. Holm reported that he also rents off-site outdoor storage and indicated that this situation works for his business and allows the property owner to gain some revenue from his property. Allan suggested that On-Site Sanitation may have outgrown their property. Holm indicated that he has been renting off-site storage for a few years. Holm asked why the City would tie the hands of the industrial businesses that are paying property taxes. He noted that he has asked where the complaints have been coming from, but has not received an answer. Holm reported that the businesses and properties are the livelihoods and future retirements for these business people. They also employ a great many people. Holm indicated that to put up a metal building for inside storage would be very expensive. Allan did not feel having portable toilets stored on a number of sites in the City was advantageous. She pointed out that On-Site has outgrown their property, and pointed out that there have been other businesses in the City that have outgrown their sites and moved to larger parcels. Holm indicated that if he had a lot of money, he could do that. Allan indicated that should the Council adopt the ordinance as drafted, On-Site could apply for a Variance to have outdoor storage in their front yard. She noted the Stanke properly does not quite fit this ordinance standard, and a Variance was granted to that property for outdoor storage in the side yard. Holm stated that he is asking the City to keep an open mind on this issue. He noted that the City Planner had indicated to him that it was unlikely that the Council would adopt an ordinance and then immediately grant a Variance to that new Code. 6