5.9 PCSR 02-28-1995 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Elk River Planning Commission Page 6 December 22, 1992 • Janelle Schmitz, Zoning Assistant, explained the applicant, Steven Shoemaker, 11106-190th Avenue NW, is requesting a conditional use permit to excavate roughly 31,250 cubic yards of black dirt from a Type 3 wetland to construct an open water pond for wildlife viewing. The Soil and Water Conservation District, the Board of Water and Soil Resources, and the Army Corps of Engineers reviewed this request and reported no problems with the request. Although the proposal will not affect any public water wetlands and approval of the DNR is not required, Dale Homuth, DNR Area Hydrologist, commented that the proposed alteration should not be viewed as a wildlife habitat improvement and suggested modifications. Ms. Schmitz expressed staff's concerns with the amount of traffic generated with this proposal. Considering the amount of fill being removed, the truck traffic in a residential neighborhood would be extensive. The applicant is researching alternative routes. Ms. Schmitz reminded the planning commission of Terry Maurer's letter suggesting the streets be inspected before beginning the proposed project. Staff believes the traffic issue and related road condition issues are the primary concerns with this request. Ed Stoutenburg, 19032 Yale Circle NW, asked if the pond would alter current drainage patterns. Ms. Schmitz responded as per the City engineer, it will not improve drainage in the area however, it should • not have a detrimental affect either. Ms. Schmitz indicated staff is recommending denial of the request for a conditional use permit to excavate 31,250 cubic yards of black dirt in a Type 3 wetland. Further, staff feels this request does not meet the seven standards for a conditional use permit. Ms. Schmitz stated staff is particularly concerned with the traffic generated by the proposed use and the affect the use would have on the residential area. If the applicant were to find an alternative route for trucks to use and the plan was altered to comply with the DNR recommendations, staff would be more supportive of the request. Chairman Nadeau opened the public hearing. Stephen Hartman, 19075 Xavier Street NW, asked if this pond would affect the normal drainage flow in the area when it is constructed and several years from now. Further, can a drainage study be done to eliminate concerns of this nature. Stephen Rohlf explained the current drainage pattern of the area and replied the City engineer and the Soil and Water Conservation District did not have any particular concerns regarding drainage patterns. Ms. Schmitz recommended the planning commission and the City require soil boring tests prior to the proposed excavation. In conclusion, Mr. Hartman stated his concern regarding the traffic in his neighborhood and that he is against the proposed wetland excavation. 41/0 After extensive discussion and given the complexity of the proposed excavation, the planning commission recommended continuing this item until questions can be resolved and presented more clearly. Ms.