August 25, 1994 Steering Committee Minutes

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Steering Committee Minutes August 25, 1994 ------------------------ r,i I u Lr-Us L_LJi age extend sewer and water, it will be financially impossible for property owners to pay the costs on even two and one-half acres and suggested a one -acre lot size minimum. Steve Ach reviewed the 1987 Comprehensive Plan goals and policies, which included maintaining the semi -rural atmosphere. (See attached excerpt from 1987 Comprehensive Plan.) Cecilia Scheel stated that she did not feel any of the goals and policies mentioned by Mr. Ach applied to the northern area, and questioned if there was any representation for the agricultural community when the 1987 plan was discussed and adopted. Committee Member Dick Hinkle explained that when he chaired the Steering Committee in 1987, he contacted a significant number of people living north of County Road 33 regarding the 10 acre minimum lot size. These property owners did not object to the 10 acre minimum and stated that they liked the area as it was and did not see any reason to develop it further. Cecilia Scheel expressed her opposition to the extensive government controls placed on farmers. Dick Hinkle stated that he opposed the 10 acre minimum lot size, but did not have the support of the people living in the northern area. John Hansen, 22124 Monroe Street, questioned who determines wetlands. He expressed his concern regarding the impact of wetlands when subdividing property. Chairman Minton stated that the DNR and Corps of Engineers determine a majority of the wetlands. Committee Member Marlon Glines questioned the group how many were interested in keeping the 10 acre minimum and how many were in favor of reducing the size to two and one-half acres. Chairman Minton noted that the group was split 50-50. Committee Member Mark Lucas questioned the impact of having 2'/z acre lots next to 10 acre minimum parcels. Chairman Minton explained that the advantage of 10 acre parcels is that if city sewer and water were extended, it would be easier to subdivide 10 acre parcels than 2'/2 acre parcels. He noted what typically happens is homes are placed on 2'/z lots in such a manner that they cannot be subdivided cost effectively. Dick Gruys, 22347 Monroe Street, stated that he owns 232 acres in the northern area. He expressed his opinion that the City should not be proud of the increase in single family homes because it means more young families with children, creating a need for more schools. He stated that single family home taxes do not pay their share for schools. Mr. Gruys explained that he felt the City should be promoting industrial development to help pay for schools and services.