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Mrs. Beaver also stated applicant commented in his application on the character and <br />uses and development in the area, Questions 2 and 4. The resort has been in its current <br />location for decades. There are very little undeveloped lots on the lake, but most are <br />heavily wooded as viewed from the lake. After clearing of sight lines the lodge will be <br />very visible to those concerned except for those at the resort. <br />In addition, Mrs. Beaver stated the lodge is a good concept for this resort. It will help it <br />function as a resort and will likely help pay for infrastructure. There is a need for <br />transient lodging. The Lake Association does have an objection for the removal of trees <br />for the lodge, parking areas, and other buildings that need to be built. Removal of <br />vegetation will be substantial. Mrs. Beaver presented a 2003 Crow Wing County aerial <br />site map indicating redevelopment had not taken place. As the resort has developed, a <br />new map indicates removal of vegetation has been substantial. The lodge is a good <br />thing, but needs to not have a negative impact. <br />Mr. Burslie pointed out that the maps were taken at different times of year. <br />Mrs. Beaver stated that you can see open ground, not just lack of leaves, you can see <br />debris. Photos indicate loss of wooded areas. <br />Regarding the second beach, Mrs. Beaver stated the Cullen Lakes Association has <br />opposed the beach since 2005. She showed copies of pictures the Cullen Lakes <br />Association took in 2003 indicating 6 camp sites and each had its own dock. There were <br />no beaches in 2003. Photos in March of 2005 indicate grading had taken place. Where <br />site map indicated beach and picnic area not allowed in 2005, she presented photos <br />indicating obvious cutting of trees and shrubs along that shoreline. In her personal <br />opinion there is no need for motorized tra�c in the Shore Impact Zone. People <br />transport kayaks and canoes by hand. Golf carts could be parked at the gate and walk <br />the short distance to the dock. She presented Lake Association photos from 2003 and <br />2009 of the west shoreline to have for future baseline photos. <br />Tom Beaver, 26834 Pine Acres Road, Nisswa — Stated he is not with the Lake <br />Association and explained he has a strong biology background, working with various <br />groups and state agencies. He reminded the Planning Commission that Middle Cullen is <br />a medium sized lake and is the water transport between Upper Cullen and the Gull <br />Chain, being only i,000 feet wide. Mr. Beaver suggests a$ioo,000 bond for the resort <br />as there has been clear cutting in the Shore Impact Zone and grading done on the east <br />shore. The east side may be a wetland and is requesting a wetland study be completed. <br />The bulrushes face the biggest fetch on that lake, getting the east winds and keeping the <br />lake clean. This still has a hard, firm bottom and no trash weeds, ideal for pan fish. <br />Minutes <br />Pequot Lakes Planning Commission <br />January i6, 2oi4 7 <br />