Planning Commission Packet - February 24, 2026

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Planning Commission Minutes January 27, 2026 --------- Page 5 of 8 Jay Whiting, 26400 25th St W, Zimmerman, spoke positively about the impact of the school and stated that Good Shepherd High School has outgrown two locations within a short period of time. Fred Van Dellen, 15021 Drake St NW, Andover, felt that increasing traffic from students and parents in the area would provide free advertising to the existing businesses. Chelsea Weaver, 7465 269th Ave NW, St. Francis, Associate Principal at Crown Christian School, felt Good Shepherd High School may look for a more permanent location in Elk River once they outgrow the space. Josh Burdick, 14655 89th St NE, Otsego, stated that the location may not be ideal for a school, but it was a different scenario than the Spectrum school location. Kris Thompson, 32851 Xenon Dr NW, Princeton, building representative for Adam Price, entertained questions. Commissioner Johnson asked if other tenants of the building had any issues with the proposed plan. Mr. Thompson stated the proposal had not been brought to the other tenants yet. Commissioner Rydberg verified that Mr. Thompson would work with the applicant to address compatibility concerns. Mr. Thompson stated that there was a low demand for retail space and the open space had been on the market for a year. Adam Price, 29390 100th St, Zimmerman, building owner, felt the school could fall under the category of religious use, which is allowed in the district. Rich Schulz, 15892 54th St, St. Michael, also owns a building in Elk River and questioned tax- exempt options. He stated a precedent would be set to allow other buildings to add educational use in their buildings. Commissioner Rydberg asked if Price Homes could get an exemption on their property taxes if they lease to the school. Mr. Leeseberg stated, he believed that real estate that was leased could not be tax- exempt. Commissioner Rydberg added that charter schools cannot own property. Mr. Schulz added that Spectrum school owns property under an LLC. He also stated that Sherburne County assessor had told him that tenants can appeal to be tax-exempt. Sarah Carlson, 16389 County Rd 83, grew up in the area and would like to see the movie theater area full of teenagers again. Chair Beise closed the public hearing. Commissioner Johnson stated he was ok with the educational use as it was a 10-year lease and the building owner was in favor of it. Chair Beise asked if there could be an interim use permit (IUP) set at 10 years instead of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). Mr. Leeseberg stated a CUP was applied for and an ordinance change would still be needed. Mr. Leeseberg stated conditions under an interim use permit could be added. Page 6 of 71