05-22-2001 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Minutes May 22, 2001 Page 12 . Commissioner Baker asked if there were any significant changes since the Planning Commission last reviewed this issue. Mr. Beck stated that the changes are very minimal. Chair Pederson asked why their use is being proposed as a conditional use and not a permitted use. Mr. Beck explained why he felt the conditional use was a better approach. Commissioner Baker asked if the purpose was to give the city some control. Mr. Beck agreed that the conditional use permit process would provide some control over the intensity of the use for issues such as number of animals, traffic, impacts off-site on adjacent properties, etc. Mr. Harlicker explained that the conditional use permit will cover the areas shown in white and yellow on Exhibit A. As it is, if Cargill wanted to expand their office area the would not be able to, because of the utilities issue. Approval of the ordinance and land use amendments would allow expansion under the conditional use permit. Scott noted that there is much more to Cargill's operation than livestock and that they also do feed research. Chair Pederson opened the public hearing. Greg Fontaine of Dorsey-Whitney, representing Cargill, Inc., stated that the intent of this process is to create a comprehensive solution to the technical difficulties in dealing with the assessments and utility issues. . Chuck Jenson, Operations Team Leader for the Elk River Cargill operations, stated that members of the City Council and staff have been out to visit the site, and he encouraged the Planning Commissioners to do so. Mr. Harlicker noted that Cargill has requested that where the words "agricultural research" is mentioned in the proposed ordinance, they would like the words "and development facilities" included. Commissioner Mesich asked what is being done to maintain the quality of the lagoons on site. Mr. Jensen stated that the lagoons were built to EP A standards and cannot be changed without their approval. He noted that they worked with the University of Minnesota on this issue. Commissioner Baker asked for clarification on the rezoning and land use areas. Mr. Harlicker explained the area proposed for rezoning and land use amendment. Mr. Beck stated that all of Cargill's property east of the railroad tracks is being taken out of the Urban Service Area and everything west of the railroad tracks will be included in the Urban Service Area. Commissioner Baker expressed his support for Cargill's operation. Commissioner Franz stated that he felt Cargill's site was clean and well-kept. .