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Planning Commission Minutes January 23. 2001 Page 3 . the administrative use. The applicant is requesting that the Commission consider changing the use of Outlot F from residential to business park. Ms. McPherson noted that it has been the goal of the City to expand its industrial base and its opportunities for job creation. and to provide an opportunity for City of Elk River to become a live-work community. If the Commission agrees that this goal is important. it would be appropriate to recommend approval of the request. However, based on the County's desires at this time, the zoning could remain residential until the County decides to develop the site. Ms. McPherson stated that the City does not know at this time how the County may develop the site if it were rezoned to Business Park. and that impacts on the adjacent properties need to be considered. Chair Mesich asked where the sewer and water is currently located. Ms. McPherson stated that sanitary sewer crosses the property. Terry Maurer stated that the water is available on the east side of this site. Ms. McPherson explained that utilities were installed across the center of Elk Path Business Center with the extension of Business Center Drive. Commissioner Baker asked for clarification on previous zoning and land use designation of the site. Ms. McPherson reviewed details of the history of the site. Commissioner Ropp asked if the property to the west is developed. Ms. McPherson stated that the property is currently vacant and the Pinewood Golf Course has an agreement with the property owner to use a portion of the site adjacent to Waco Street as a driving range. . Chair Mesich opened the public hearing. Stewart Wilson, 17975 Troy Street, Elk River, property owner, explained that he is presenting this request due to a strong interest by Sherburne County in purchasing the property. Given the opposition of the residents in Country Crossing to the development of business park in that area, he questioned whether R 1 c was appropriate for this site, since the property to the west will eventually be developed as business park. He felt that a governmental use of Outlot F would be compatible with the existing single family neighborhood to the east. and also would be an enhancement to the development of the business park to the west. He stated that he has received numerous requests to purchase the property for residential development, but that he has held off because he was not sure that residential use was compatible with business park to the west. Chair Mesich asked why the County has not considered expanding to the east or west. rather than south. Mr. Wilson stated that the County representatives could better answer the question. Chair Mesich agreed that a County use would be a good buffer for the residential. but that there are no guarantees and the land could be sold in the future and developed as business park. Mr. Wilson stated that he could not speak on behalf of the County. but that he did not believe the County was in the business of buying property and selling it for profit. . Brian Benson, Sherburne County Administrator, explained that approximately 25- 30 years ago. the citizens of Sherburne County voted to have Elk River remain the County seat. The County outgrew their downtown site and in 1980. the first phase of the government center building was completed. and since then two additions