05-24-1982 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Minutes May 24, 1982 Page Nine has been enlarged by 35,00 square feet. Commissioner Gunkel felt that there has been no solid evidence of who or what will go into this 8hoppi~g center. Mr. Marlin Hutchinson indicated that the original size did not include a variety store. Since then, a variety store has indicated interest in the shopping center. Mr. Hutchinson indicated that in order to support the variety store, there had to be added space. Smaller stores are charged higher rents, supporting the larger stores. Mr. Murray Mills asked the Planning Commission, that based on the discussion, what point the Planning Commission stops approving more growth. None of the Planners agree with Barthel's numbers regarding projected growth. Chairman Tracy indicated that he could not see Mr. Santwire and Mr. Barthel competing with shopping centers. He further indicated that if one starts, the other one will not. Having approval does not mean that they will actually start if they know they can't compete if they are starting a year after someone else. A member of the audience asked Chairman Tracy ho\v many people \Vere supposed to be on the Planning Commission. Chairman Tracy indicated to her that there were actually five members on the Planning Commission. The other two were not present at this meeting. Chairman Tracy also in- dicated that he had spoke with staff regarding the quorum needed for the public hear- ing and was informed that three were necessary for a quorum. The member of the audience indicated that it did not seem fair either to the Plan- ning Commissioners present or to the public that they should have to make a decision as "weighty" as this one that \Vas being presented tonight with only three members present. Gary Santwire indicated to the Planning Commission and to the audience that there would not be a 95,000 square foot shopping center and a 44,000 square foot shopping center built in Elk River. Mr. Santwire indicated he felt this way because the market could not support 139,000 square feet of shopping center. Chairman Tracy closed the Public Hearing at 10:05 p.m. Robert Middaugh, City Administrator, indicated that a decision had to be decided to- night because City Ordinance says that on a preliminary plat there is a 30 day time limit. There is no time limit on a conditional use. If the developer agrees to an extension, an extension can be granted. Chairman Tracy indicated that the Planning Commission's options are: 1) Act on the conditional use permit as it is requested. 2) Deny the conditional use permit as it is requested. 3) Suggest a different size limit.