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Planning Commission Minutes March 28, 2023 Page 5 Mr. Leeseberg agreed that perhaps trying to be business -friendly and modify the ordinance to allow home occupations has created more nuisances and hurdles for the property owners while at the same time protecting the city. He stated many of these instances the businesses are already operating, and the city works with them to bringing them into compliance during the CUP process, but state building codes have always been in place and will continue to be required unless state statutes are changed. Chair Larson -Vito felt it was important to find a healthy balance to discourage businesses from going `underground' to avoid having to comply with code requirements. Councilmember Westgaard discussed finding a way to determine the intensity of uses, like piano teacher or tax advisor versus auto mechanic, to separate requirements. He wondered if it might be helpful to share what the requirements would be for a homeowner to build a detached structure with plans and specifications to meet the building code, versus the requirements for a detached structure for a commercial construction business. What will the architect do to protect the city and resident? Mr. Pistulka stated an architect will do a code analysis to ensure the building meets the numbers of occupants, employees, how big the building can be for a sprinkler requirement, firewall, type of construction. To him, the question is what becomes more hazardous in the home, a piano teacher or tax accountant, or a mechanic working on vehicles. Councilmember Westgaard asked about the insurance industry views these questions, and at what point does the homeowner insurance coverage change as the use changes. The commission discussed ways of helping applicants streamline the application and permitting process, wondering if it is possible to assist with architect or engineer fees, can those fees be part of the permitting process? Can a contractor work with the city to aid in fulfilling requirements? The commission wondered if economic development could help with small business funds aiding the applicant with architect fees. Commissioner Booth suggested an intensity of use chart, such as type of work, location either in an attached garage or detached garage. Are there specific uses that are flat out prohibited or require setbacks. Mr. Leeseberg indicated the city attorney is also reviewing this topic and will bring back his legal opinion at the next meeting. The Planning Commission will continue discussion at next month's meeting. 11. Motion to Adjourn Moved by Commissioner Johnson and seconded by Commissioner Beise to adjourn the meeting of the Planning Commission. Motion carried 7-0. PINEIEI I1 NA�uR