12-07-99 CCM - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

The Council received letters indicating their concerns ranging from noise, caused from the event's numerous snowmobiles racing throughout the day and the public address system, alcohol to crime and parking issues from the following residents: Rodric Guindon, 8321 DeMontreville Trail N, Katherine Brown, 8470 DeMontreville Trail N., Dick Evenson 8449 DeMontreville Trail N., Neil Anderson, 5217 Jamaca Avenue N., Bob Olson, 8717 DeMontreville Trail N., and John Albrecht. Marilyn Olson pointed out when the CUP permit was issued; it had one stipulation, no snowmobile use on property. Mr. Morales explained they want to hold the race on the Springborn's property because of its hilly terrain and snow malting capabilities. Most of the snowmobiles involved in the event will have mufflers on them that keep the noise down. The snowmobiles will not be running non-stop each day. Spectators will be coming and going through the day so there will not be a sudden rush of 2,000 cars trying to get into the Springborn's property each day. The Springborn's have earmarked 18 acres of his property for parking during the event. No alcohol is allowed in the snowmobile event or pit area. Mayor Hunt, who lives close to the Sprinborn property, supported the proposal because the City has said we want large landowners to keep their large tracts of land open and need to give them alternative ways of getting income instead of just developing. Council member Dunn indicated Lake Elmo held an Olympic Festival, ski race on Lake Jane, Lions Club Fishing contest on Lake Elmo and would look favorably at this proposal. Council member DeLapp asked what about sanitary facilities, have there been problems at the Cedar Lake racetrack where this event had previously been scheduled, and what are the decibel levels at the property lines. Attorney Filla stated a snowcross is not listed as a permitted use in the Springborn CUP. The City is not interpreting the definition of Commercial Recreation of a Rural Nature to preclude this kind of activity. The City needs to look at this definition; code does not define. Should there be a temporary permit issued? The City should contact the Sheriff with concerns and how much involvement they need and what cost to the City. Traffic control off site is a concern. Rev. John Burns, valued the friendship of Springborns, and depending on the wind, they do hear the PA system now, but not often, but would certainly hear snowmobiles. He stated that Green Acres is totally surrounded by residents so somebody will be impacted by the noise depending on how the wind is blowing. He brought up several issues: Where will the cars and trailers park, who will be directing traffic, essential to have police there, no secure fencing to separate property from neighbors. Eileen Blasko, Sprinborns are kind neighbors, knew tubing hill was there, concern on parking of vehicles, what is the route? LAKE ELMO CITY COUNCIL MINUTES DECEMBER 7, 1999 7