07/14/2010 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board July 14, 2010 Page 2 APPROVED MINUTES VI. ACTION ITEMS A. PUBLIC HEARING to consider Comprehensive Plan Amend ment to change the land use designation from Low Density Sewered R esidential to Commercial, Rezone from Rural to General Business, Conditional Use Permit for an Outdoor Sales Lot, and a Variance to allow the expa nsion of a non-conforming structure, in order to allow the addition of automo bile sales to an existing auto repair shop and the construction of an enclosed ent rance addition at 909 Maple Street. Associate Planner, Paul Bengtson, presented the sta ff report. Staff explained that the application is similar to the application reviewed for this site last year, with an additional request for a variance to allow for the expansion of a non- conforming structure. Staff recommended denial of the four requests by the applicant, based on the findings of fact. Ivan Kozhokor, Applicant, resident of 862 Oak Lane, Lexington, was present for questions. Mr. Kozhokor stated that he sees sales lots in other cities and he does not understand why his request is not allowed. He said that improvements had been made to the site and he is willing to make additional impro vements if necessary for approval of his requests. Chair Tralle stated that the board understands and appreciates the applicant’s request, and acknowledged the improvements that have been made t o the site. He explained that the Planning and Zoning Board does not have the authori ty to allow the applicant’s request at this time. He suggested that although the business being requested is not feasible at this location, perhaps the applicant could consider a di fferent site for his business. Mr. Tralle explained that the Comprehensive Plan is the city’s guide for zoning, etc. He reiterated that the Metropolitan Council will not give the cit y permission to make changes until the plan is approved. Mr. Tralle stated that the appli cant was informed by staff that these requests would probably be denied. Staff noted that the addition that was constructed to the entrance of the building was not installed according to building code requirements. Mr. Kozhokor distributed photos of the building entrance that was constructed. Chair Tralle opened the Public Hearing at 7:07 p.m. Mr. Tralle noted that an email was submitted to the board by an anonymous resident regarding the request. Mr. Tralle noted that email s should include resident names in order for addressing the issue at public meetings. Terry Johnson, 987 Maple Street, asked if the P&Z B oard would read the letter. Chair Tralle stated that he would not read the emai l because it was anonymously submitted.