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Planning Commission Minutes August 14, 2007 Page 5 is not affordable for them. He requested that the Commission look at the use as permanent and suggested that the city set aside a percentage of the business park for these uses. He stated that the existing underlying land use could be maintained, while creating an affordable space for these types of businesses. Rich Murphy, local developer -Stated that he also is working with Acceleration, MN, and that as an investor, it would be difficult to invest in a business that is existing on a temporary basis. He stated that as a resident, he spends many hours on the road, driving his own children to receive training. He stated that there are many other Elk River residents who are spending time and money outside of Elk River to do the same. Dan Murphy stated that he felt this was something that could work in Elk River. He stated that the most recent approval was in January 2007 for a facility in a Plymouth business park setting. He asked that the Commission consider a workshop discussion on this issue and that he would be happy to do more investigation if the Commission desires. He felt these types of businesses would be a benefit to the community. He stated that if more industrial comes into the city, more buildings will be built. Pamela Sitts, 16006 Otsego, and owner of P.S. Dance -Stated that, as an example, she would need to charge her 400 students $300 a month just to pay the rent at the former Snyder's building at School Street and Highway 169. Pat Briggs, 11110 Industrial Circle -Thanked the Commission for their work on this frustrating process. There being no further public comment, Chair Stevens closed the public hearing. Chair Stevens stated that he would vote against the amendment because he does not feel it is an appropriate use in the business park zoning district. Mr. Barnhart stated that a point in support of the use is that the hours are off-peak from the business park uses and parking would also not be an issue. Commissioner Westgaard stated that he would be in favor of recommending approval, based on the Council's concurrence that the use is reasonable. Mr. Barnhart provided clarification on a possible motion and procedure on the request by P.S. Dance. Chair Stevens stated that staff has presented a strong case for a balanced approach, and that the previously approved ordinance provides flexibility. He provided a statement regarding his position on the request, noting that the goal of the Economic Development Authority is to provide livable jobs for its residents and that the proposed use is not consistent with those goals. He felt the city would be less likely to attract business park uses if its space is filled with physical recreation/training type uses. He stated that he felt the end result would be that lease rates will be driven up and there will be less space available for business park uses. Commissioner Scott stated that he concurred with Chair Stevens that an interim use is not a good option, and that the question is whether or not the uses should be allowed as a conditional use. He stated that he is not in favor of the idea but does not feel as strongly about the issue as Chair Stevens.