10/08/1997 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • Planning & Zoning Board October 8, 1997 Page 18 Mr. Dunn asked where this Post is presently located. Ms. Wyland stated that the Post had previously been located Blaine. Mr. Dunn asked if any information was available from Blaine as to the Legion's history and /or performance while in that area. Ms. Wyland indicated that the Post's history had not been researched. Mr. Johnson requested clarification that the proposal is to occupy an existing building, and that there had been no conditional use permit for this property prior to this time. Ms. Wyland indicated that this statement is correct. Marty Erickson, Commander of the American Legion Post, explained that there had been no problems in the previous location. He added that the City Staff had checked with the Police Department on the Post's past record, and that his desire was to supply community services. Mr. Dunn asked the size of the Post. Commander Erickson indicated membership of approximately 355. Mr. Dunn asked about membership requirements. Commander Erickson indicated that the only requirement is that a member served in the armed forces. John Herman, 7859 Lois Lane, asked if the proposed facility would be open to the public. He explained that his past experience with a similar fraternal organization near his home was negative. That facility conducted a variety of public activities, resulting in litter, poor driving practices, and insufficient parking area. Mr. Hermann requested information as to the Post's proposed activities. Mr. Johnson clarified that parking requirements are based upon the number of people the facility can accommodate. Commander Erickson responded that the Post's practice is to hold wedding receptions, public dining, etc. He explained that although there are 355 members, many do not frequent the Post. He added that there had never been a parking problem at the previous location, and reiterated that the Post's only desire is to be an asset to the community. Mr. Herman asked how many people the facility could accommodate. With respect to parking, Ms. Wyland explained that the square footage of the dining area determines the number of parking spaces, which computes to one car per 100 square feet of dining. Mr. Herman asked how many people typically attend a wedding reception. Commander Erickson stated that the local Fire Marshall would determine the maximum number of people allowed in the facility. Ms. Wyland added that additional space might be available on the site of the building. Mr. Hermann asked if specific conditions could be attached to the conditional use permit. Mr. Gelbmann asked if the Post had met the requirements for issuance of a liquor license. Ms. Wyland indicated that the liquor license had been obtained through the City Clerk.