7.1b SR 05-18-2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Project Narrative- CUP- Morrell Companies Detailed description /scope of project. What is being proposed? Background of Company Morrell Companies is a family owned business which has been located in Elk River since 1962. Larry and Arlyce Morrell started the business as a common carrier trucking company, and after recognizing the growth potential of the business, opened an aggregate division in 1974. Throughout the years, numerous additional divisions were formed to haul concrete products, recycling material and heavy equipment. With this growth, the entire family became involved in the family business in a variety of capacities, and this involvement as allowed for continued growth and expansion. Morrell Companies was originally located on the corner of Jackson & School Street. Because of its proximity to the nearby schools, the city began working with the Morrell's to explore potential sites for relocation. In 1984, Larry Morrell expressed interest in purchasing city owned property along 1715 and HWY 169. Throughout the late 80s and early 90s, countless discussions were had between the Morrell's and the city to determine the best option for relocation within the city. In 1996, both Morrell Companies and LeFebvre Trucking expressed their interest to the city in relocating their businesses to their current locations off of 171St Avenue. Discussion at the 4 -15 -96 City Council work session resulted in the support of upgrading 17151 Avenue to MSA standards, using MSA funds, indicating it would be a "significant factor in enticing the two businesses, especially Morrell, to locate in this area" (4 -15 -96 City Council Minutes). City Council authorized the sale of the property to the Morrell's on 6- 30 -97. In the beginning of 1999, Morrell Companies moved into a new 36,000 square foot facility, located at 10752 171St Ave NW, which has provided them an even greater ability to serve their customers, while providing enough room for expansion. In the early 2000s, Todd, Terry and Trent Morrell transitioned into leadership positions within the company, with their mother and father stepping down to work in the company on a part time basis. Morrell Companies is now a full service carrier which offers a vast variety of standard and specialized transportation services. They have been at this location for over fifteen years, and choose to continue to expand their operations and create new jobs for the Elk River community. Last year, their current facility paid $91,054 in taxes, and they have contributed a total of 927,606 in taxes since 2003. Their new facility is anticipated to generate $34,200 a year in property taxes, bringing their total tax contribution to over $125,000 annually. Proposed Project Morrell Companies has seen consistent growth over the years, and would like to purchase Lot 1, Block 2 of Elk River's Nature's Edge Business Center to expand their operations. The Elk River EDA and City Council approved a purchase agreement, contingent upon approval of the CUP and rezoning applications, on March 16, 2014. The 4.08 acre parcel is adjacent to their current facility and is the perfect location to expand their existing facility. Terry Morrell, one of the owners of the company, is