06-25-2024 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Planning Commission Minutes June 25, 2024 --------- Page 4 of 5 Brian Hork - 19308 Rush Ct. NW - stated he felt residential use would likely be better than a commercial use. He asked more questions about filling the wetlands and his concerns with water management with a drainage ditch on the north and south. He stated there are culverts underneath the property that concents to a pond on the south side. He wanted to make sure water management is considered with any project on that parcel. Don George - 12421 193rd Ln. NW - asked what it would take to change the buildable area to enlarge. Mr. Carlton stated wetlands are protected by the state's Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) and any impacts would require a wetland delineation, identified by a professional and approved by officials. Any impacts on wetlands would again have to go through the WCA and buy credits to offset that impact, which can be expensive. This approach wasn't impossible but unlikely for this parcel. There being no one else to speak, Chair Beise closed the public hearing. Commissioner Mauren asked if Mr. Carlton had any information about the County Road 1 safety study. Mr. Carlton indicated the study would be completed by Sherburne County since it was regarding a county road. He can ask the city's public works director if he's received any information. Commissioner Rydberg stated the city has not received a development plan for this parcel, but the city's goal is to reduce the density of whatever is being proposed for this piece of private property. He noted the owner would need to take into account all the concerns the public noted. Commissioner Mauren asked about the trail having protection. Mr. Carlton stated the trail is in an easement and the City Council would not likely vacate the trail, noting the owner can build near it but not on it. Commissioner Larson-Vito agreed with Commissioner Rydberg's comments, and stated this parcel is disconnected from the Comprehensive Plan and the Zoning map. Commissioner Johnson stated changing the zoning is the right thing to do to lessen the impact on the surrounding area. Moved by Commissioner Booth and seconded by Commissioner Johnson to recommend approval of the request by the City of Elk River for the proposed zone change from Highway Commercial (C3) to Townhouse/Multiple Family Residential (R3). Motion Carried 6-0. 5. GENERAL BUSINESS There was no general business discussed. 6. COUNCIL LIAISON UPDATES Councilmember Westgaard provided an update on the recent city council meeting.