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Economic Development Commission Minutes November 15, 2016 Page 3 of 4 Justin Burslie informed the Commission of the three main planning tools utilized in the planning and zoning department. These include the Comprehensive Plan,the Downtown Plan, and zoning ordinances. Mr. Burslie explained the Comprehensive Plan is a 20-25 year vision for what you want your community to be. This Plan is analyzed from a 20,000 foot level. Land use, infrastructure, parks and recreation, open space, economic development, and the future land use map are all incorporated into this Plan which is utilized by the Planning Commission in making decisions and planning for future development. Mr. Burslie explained that the Downtown Plan is analyzed from a 10,000 foot level. This Plan identifies each City street and analyzes what percentage property values are contributing to the cost of the infrastructure in the street. Most are contributing approximately 10%to the cost. Mr. Burslie explained that the City's zoning ordinances provide the current law for building in the City. He reviewed the difference between land use permits and conditional use permits and noted that conditional use permits require a public hearing. Mr. Burslie further noted that the City does not currently enforce the building code and does not have a building official. Crow Wing County also does not enforce the building code. Mr. Burslie discussed with the Commission the Grow Zone Overlay District which allows a developer to build according to the format specified in the District and the City will not regulate the use. Prohibited uses include total floor area over 5,000 square feet and adult use. Chair Jurchen questioned if empty retail spaces could be redeveloped into residential spaces on the ground floor in commercial areas. Mr. Burslie noted the City does not allow for this and it is important to keep commercial areas on the ground floor from residential areas due to the difference in noise and traffic patterns that these entail. Chair Jurchen questioned the possibility of a vacancy charge for empty buildings. Mr. Burslie was not aware of any entities that he services that charge for this. Ms. Haverkamp noted this charge is for not actively promoting the vacancy. Mr. Burslie explained that blighted properties would require a property maintenance code and the City does not have this. To be in violation of a property maintenance code,the property must be a threat to public health and safety. Mr. Burslie further noted that the City does not have a rental ordinance in place due to the increased administrative costs needed to enforce this ordinance. Commissioner Lindholm questioned what the Commission's charge is with this information.