10-26-2004 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . Planning Commission Minutes October 26, 2004 Page 4 Troy Tuftco, representing Jimmy Wang of Maxsun Furniture - Stated that the Maxsun Furniture Store will be approximately 50,000 square feet and Tractor Supply will be 30,000- 35,000 square feet. He provided background information on Mr. Wang's experience and other stores. He stated that they anticipate creating the following jobs: 6 - 8 full time administrative jobs at $25,000 - $60,000/year 12 full time commissioned sales averaging $25,000/year 4 full time employees at $12-$15 per hour 8 full time employees at $10-$14 per hour Mr. Tuftco stated that Maxsun Furniture features contemporary furniture and lighting not offered in this area. He stated that the building will have lots of windows and will be finished on all sides. There being no further public comment, Chair Ropp closed the public hearing. Commissioner Stevens asked if the existing lots were buildable as they are currently configured. Ms. McPherson stated yes, that there were no hindrances to developing them as they are today. Commissioner Stevens stated that he is strongly opposed to commercial development of land designed for business park use and felt the Gty should do anything it can to nurture business park growth. Commissioner Offerman stated that he felt the applicant made some very good points to support the proposed use. He felt that the EDA made a good case as to why the property use should not be changed, but that there would still be a substantial amount of property available to the south for business park use. He stated that the Comprehensive Plan is not finite. He felt the request is within the intent of the Plan and meets the criteria for creating good jobs, etc. He stated that he would encourage businesses to come to Elk River. Commissioner Offerman asked what would happen if the lots were reconfigured and the two retail uses did not happen. Ms. McPherson explained that the land use and rezoning are effective upon publication, but that the lot configurations are not final until the final plat was recorded. Commissioner Offerman stated that he was in favor of recommending approval of the requests. Chair Ropp concurred that the applicant made a strong case for approval. He noted that the applicant has stated there still is enough business park space available to meet the buildout requirement. Ms. McPherson explained that yes, the development agreement requirements will be met, but this does not take into account the Gty's goals and objectives for business park development. Commissioner Anderson asked for clarification on the type of product offered by Tractor Supply. Ms. McPherson explained that Tractor Supply is a Fortune 500 company with over 500 stores nationwide. The company markets to hobby farmers, selling animal feed, small tractors, lawn and garden supplies, etc. Commissioner Anderson asked who owned the parcel to the north. Ms. McPherson stated that the property is owned by Associated Investors of Elk River, developers of the Wal-Mart and Home Depot sites. She noted that this is a joint application by them and Fischer Sand and Aggregate. Commissioner Anderson asked how the northern lot was impacted by the power line. Ms. McPherson stated that there is a 200 foot wide power line easement and a drainage easement on the eastern third of the property.