2002.04.25 PC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Meeting April 25, 2002- page 2 Home Occupations The Planning Commission continued discussion on the draft home occupation ordinance. Specifically discussed were different types of home occupations and the how to treat existing legal nonconforming businesses. It was suggested that existing business could be given the option of being grandfathered in, which would not allow for changes or expansions to the current operation, or if they wished to expand, they could do so under an interim use permit. The Commission also requested that staff prepare separate ordinances for home based businesses and home occupations. Schumann made motion, Peltier seconded, to direct staff to prepare a progress report for the Council, and provide suggestions on how to recognize existing business and bring it back to the Commission for further discussion. Buffer Yards The Planning Commission continued discussion on buffer yards and reviewed the draft ordinance provided to the Commission. The Commission discussed what would be considered adequate buffer yards and option to reduce it should berming and screening is installed. John Udsten, 15190 Everton Avenue North, said people with ten acre parcels do farm their land and should be protected with a 50 -foot buffer yard setback as well as berming and landscaping where development encroaches upon agricultural uses. Arnie Treimert, 15220 Everton Avenue North, agreed with Mr. Udsten, and cited occasions where residential development had conflicted with the agricultural use of property. Ann Thompson, 13755 Elmcrest Avenue North, described her property as a "kid magnet" and was worried about residential development abutting her property without having adequate buffering. Malaski made motion, Kleissler seconded, to provide the Council and updated on the buffer yard ordinance and schedule a public hearing on it. All Ayes. Motion carried. Bald Eagle Industrial Park The Community Development Director discussed with the Planning Commission the Bald Eagle Industrial Park and the lack of developable land available within the City for industrial use. With money still owed on the bonds, the City would need to refinance the bonds if the property is not sold in the next year. The Commission discussed subdividing the parcel owned by the City in order to make the property more marketable. It was also suggested that the owner of the property to the east, Minnesota Pipeline Company, be approached to see if they would sell a portion of their property to allow the parcels to be squared up, which would make the land more attractive and feasible.