11/18/2009 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board November 18, 2009 Page 2 APPROVED MINUTES also a licensed insurance agent, and the building h as an 800 sq. foot office with a basement. He would run a data storage company to s tore data for websites, but the city did not have issues with the part of his business. He stated that the recycling business would be open to the public, and he would be able t o accept many items free of charge. He has state, county and federal government permit approval for recycling as well as a hazardous waste generator license and freon license . He accepts appliance deliveries about two to three times per week from a 20-yard ro ll-off. He currently runs his recycling business in Columbus. He is aware that a dditional work would need to be done to the existing building. He is interested in movi ng into the site as soon as possible. He would like to get city approval and purchase the bu ilding before the draft Comp Plan is adopted and goes into effect. He knows that the sp rinkler system is insufficient, and he would speak to the fire department about the possib ility of converting to a dry pressure system. Paul Bengtson, Associate Planner, explained that th e location of the building crosses the property line of the adjoining lot. Mr. Freimuth w ould need to combine the lots, or remove the back portion of the building that crosse s the lot line. He stated the parking area should also be combined. Mr. Freimuth responded that he is interested in pur chasing both lots. The Board asked what would be necessary for a recyc ling company to be allowed. Mr. Bengtson stated that the interpretation by staf f of the zoning ordinance is that this use qualifies as a junk yard. An applicant could reque st a change, and the city would then have to consider all possible effects. Mr. Freimuth would like to occupy and fix the exist ing building and make future improvements if he is financially able. He is awar e that the site would require considerable screening. Jeff Smyser, City Planner, reminded the board that the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Panel considered this site a gateway area to the ci ty. Therefore, they guided the site for commercial use in order to facilitate higher value development there that could finance extending city utilities to the site. Chair Tralle commented that this piece of property has been vacant for some time, and felt that Mr. Friemuth could work with the city to improve and use the site. Otherwise, it may remain unused for a long time. He pointed out the importance of a positive business owner interested in an unused site. Staff explained that an application would have to b e submitted to the city, along with appropriate fees and an escrow deposit. Review cou ld potentially take up to six months before the site could be used. Mr. Freimuth stated that he was looking for directi on from the board before making a financial investment.