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Planning Commission Minutes Page 4 June 28, 2005 --------------------------- MOTION CARRIED 7-0. 5.2. Request by City of Elk River for Ordinance Amendment Section 30793 Regarding Fabric Accessory Structures, Public Hearing – Case No. OA 05-09 Director of Planning McPherson explained that this item was previously considered by the Commission and the recommendation at that time was that fabric structures should not be allowed anywhere within the residential districts, except for those structures under 120 square feet. She stated that staff has now been approached by a local farmer who has purchase a fabric accessory structure for the purpose of storing hay on his farm. Ms. McPherson reviewed the proposed conditions under which engineered fabric accessory structures could be allowed in the R1a and Z1 Districts. Commissioner Ropp stated that he felt it would be restrictive to only allow the structures for animals or animal feed. He suggested that storage of machinery also be allowed. Commissioner Ropp asked if the fabric structures are cheaper to purchase than a typical pole building. Ms. McPherson stated that when City staff priced out both options for the Public Works facility storage building, a fabric structure was actually more expensive. Commissioner Stevens asked why equipment storage was not included. Ms. McPherson stated that the request was for hay, and that staff has no objection to removing the condition prohibiting equipment storage. Chair Anderson stated that initially their intent was to prevent property owners from storing boats, RV’s and other types of recreational vehicles. He asked why the R1a and Agricultural district were selected to allow these structures. Ms. McPherson stated that the lots are generally larger, which allow for greater setbacks from other properties and the uses are more agricultural in nature than the other districts. Commissioner Scott asked if engineering information will be required. Ms. McPherson stated yes. Commissioner Scott asked if a structure that was self-engineered or home-built would be allowed. Ms. McPherson stated that the requirement for engineered structures would be similar to industrial or commercial buildings which require sign-off by a registered or certified engineering professional. Commissioner Stevens asked if this ordinance would impact existing greenhouses. Ms. McPherson stated no. Chair Anderson opened the public hearing. There being no public comment, Chair Anderson closed the public hearing. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER STEVENS AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER OFFERMAN TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENT, CASE NO. OA 05-09 TO ALLOW ENGINEERING FABRIC ACCESSORY STRUCTURES IN THE R1A AND A1 DISTRICTS WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: I.THE PARCEL IS FIVE ACRES OR GREATER.