05-20-2004 Planning Commission Meeting

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place to determine the answer to these questions is by examining the City's vision as �-' described in the future land use map contained in the Comprehensive Plan. From the current Ordinance,Forestry is a district established for the purpose of efficiently using land to conserve forest resources through the management of land for forest,woodland, or plantation uses,to establish and maintain timber resources and healthy,well-balanced forests,to protect the natural environment, and to preserve undeveloped areas and provide outdoor recreation opportunities. Also from the Ordinance,the Rural Residential district is for areas developed at a density and character compatible with agricultural uses to maintain the rural character of the district. Planned Unit Developments or cluster developments are allowed as a Conditional Use Permit on lands that are suitable with the intent to maximize and preserve green space and historical features of the area. The bulk and density requirements of the two districts are as follows: Forestry District Rural Residential District Lot Area 10 acres 5 acres Lot Width 300 feet 200 feet Lot Coverage 10% 15% Staff Findings: We have reviewed the application and propose the following findings of fact for you to consider: 1. The parcel is currently zoned Forestry. 2. The parcel is presently undeveloped. 3. The parcel topography is sloped with some potential steep slopes, although there are no apparent development constraints for either zoning classification. 4. The parcel is at the intersection of two municipal streets. There are no access constraints to the property. 5. The property is not served by municipal sewer and water utilities. There is no requirement for utilities for either zoning classification. 6. The property is forested. Planning Commission Direction: The Commission can recommend to the Council that they approve this rezoning. The Commission can also recommend that the Council not approve the rezoning. Finally,the Commission can table the rezoning to gather further information. Staff Recommendation: It does not appear that the current zoning classification is wrong but, in fact,that the parcel was zoned Forestry consistent with the objectives of the Sibley Town Board. As such,there does not seem to be a compelling reason to change the zoning classification of the property. There does,however,except for the fact that the property provides a forest resource, there seems to be no apparent reason why the property could not be zoned Rural May 2004 Staff Report Page 2