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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002.09.12 PC MinutesCall to Order Chairperson Schumann called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m. PRESENT: Bailly, Kleissler, Malaski, McRoberts, Peltier, Rosenquist, Schumann ALSO PRESENT: John Rask, Community Development Michele Lindau, Planning Commission Secretary Message of Appreciation After the Pledge of Allegiance, Malaski read a message in recognition of the anniversary of September 11`h expressing appreciation of those who serve in aiding and protecting the Country. Minutes for Planning Commission Meeting July 25, 2002 Malaski made motion, Peltier seconded, to recommend approval of the minutes of July 25, 2002 as amended. All Ayes. Motion carried. Amendment to Zoning Ordinance — Accessory Structures The Planning Commission held a public hearing to consider the request of Rodney Bahr, 3363 Oasis Avenue North, Stillwater, MN, for an ordinance text amendment to permit indoor riding arenas on ten -acre parcels in the Rural Residential zoning district. The applicant is developing a four 10 -acre lot subdivision known as White Oak Fields. One of his perspective buyers would like to construct a private indoor riding arena and other related horse training and boarding facilities. At the time of preliminary plat review, the applicant asked the City Council if it would be supportive of a variance to construct a riding arena. The Council had commented that they were supportive of horse facilities, but could see no hardship that would warrant the granting of a variance. However, the Council did indicate that they would consider an ordinance amendment as a possible means of permitting this type of facility. The Community Development Director provided the Commission with a staff report and a draft resolution dealing specifically with riding arenas. Rosenquist noted that riding arenas were permitted on parcels in the Agricultural District of Planning Commission Meeting September 12, 2002- page 2 20 acres in size or larger. He also said he felt that 10 acres was not enough property. Malaski agreed that the draft ordinance did not mention the disposal of animal waste or how far the arena needed to be from a well. She was also concerned about setbacks from neighboring homes, screening arenas from other properties, and the possibility of it becoming a place for a boarding and training business. The Community Development Director pointed out that the ordinance already provided for setbacks and the keeping of animals. Malaski wondered if a provision should be included to require the building be removed if the arena was not used for horses. McRoberts stated that the building would be three times the permitted size and perhaps the setbacks should be increased if the permitted building size was increased. He also said he was concerned about the noise and possible odor. Schumann opened the public hearing. Ed Sevenrude, currently residing in West Lakeland Township and purchasing a 10 -acre parcel from Rodney Bahr, said he currently boards six horses and would like to have a place on his property to ride them all year because his family enjoyed it and it kept the horses fit and trim. Schumann reminded the Commission to consider the request for an ordinance amendment as it applies to the entire City, not just the parcels in the White Oak Heights subdivision. McRoberts said he felt that if the ordinance amendment was approved, there would be many applications for horse arenas. Bailly said that she liked seeing horses because they were part of Hugo's rural atmosphere but said she would like to see the restrictions in the draft resolution a little tougher. She suggested the draft ordinance be amended to limit the height of the building, require it to be at least 500' from a public street, only permit 25% of the arena be of concrete floor, increase the side setback to 80 feet, and require coniferous screening from adjacent properties. Rosenquist said the ordinance should remain as is because allowing buildings three -times the currently permitted size was too much. Schumann said he felt people appreciated Hugo's rural flavor that horses give. Kleissler agreed with Bob, saying that she likes horses but the buildings would be too large for 10 - acre parcels. She also said there could be problems with the noise, lighting, and possible event parking. Peltier said the building should be smaller. Planning Commission Meeting September 12, 2002- page 3 McRoberts said he felt there was not a compelling argument for him to support an ordinance change. Rosenquist made motion, Kleissler seconded, to recommend the denial of an ordinance amendment to permit riding arenas. Ayes: Kleissler, Malaski, McRoberts, Rosenquist, Schumann Nay: Bailly, Peltier Motion carried. Schumann closed the public hearing. Adjournment McRoberts made motion, Malaski seconded, to adjourn at 8:20 pm. All Ayes. Motion carried.