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Mounds View Planning Commission November 3, 1999 Regular Meeting Page 12 Commissioner Hegland commented the billboard consideration was originally undertaken as an attempt to retire the debt at the golf course more quickly. Community Development Director Jopke stated this was presented as an alternative to produce revenue to assist with paying off the existing debt at the golf course. Commissioner Hegland inquired how much revenue the billboards were estimated to generate, and what would be the effect on the debt at the golf course, and the City, should they proceed with billboards. Community Development Director Jopke stated the estimated revenue from billboards would range between $1,000 to $2,000 per sign, per month, $12,000 to $24,000 per year. He stated he was uncertain regarding the impact this would have on how soon the debt at the golf course would be paid. Commissioner Hegland commented this was the original impetus for pursuing billboards, however, Wit does not represent anything significant in terms of retiring that debt, he was uncertain why they were proceeding with the matter. Community Development Director Jopke pointed out that the issues of revenue and debt are considerations of the Council, and they must ultimately make the decision regarding the economic issues. He explained that the Planning Commission should focus upon the land use issues and the • impact on the community, as this is the appropriate input to provide to the City Council. Chair Peterson commented there appeared to be some question in terms of the Highway Department policies and the zoning. He explained that the land was given to the City with the provision that it must be used for a public purpose, however, the Highway Department regulations require that billboards can only be allowed on commercial property. He stated this presented a conflict. Community Development Director Jopke stated this might be the case. He reiterated the City Attorney's indication that however the City proceeds in this matter, the State must ultimately issue the permit, and they may not, based upon the fact that this property is not zoned for commercial or industrial use. He noted a suggestion that the State may consider this more of a commercial use, and therefore, be willing to issue the permit, however, this is simply speculation, and will not be known until a billboard owner applies for a permit. Commissioner Stevenson inquired if staff had conducted research of the ordinances relating to billboards in the surrounding communities. Community Development Director Jopke stated the cities of Arden Hills, New Brighton, and Shoreview do not allow billboards. The research indicates that Shoreview and Arden Hills prohibit any new billboards, and existing billboards are grandfathered in. He pointed out that Shoreview is attempting to remove billboards through redevelopment, as it comes forward. •