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c. Field of Dreams, Discussion `-- After reviewing the Minutes from the October 13, 2011 Park Board meeting, the Planning Commission supports the Park Board's decision to continue planting trees in the park areas creating a natural buffer between the road and the homes and to maintain the intent of past Councils that the park areas be used as a buffer. Staff will forward this message to the Park Board. OLD BUSINESS: a. Building Code Enforcement, Tom Nelson — Fire Chief (continuation) Dan Warrington, the State Electrical Inspector for this area, is in favor of the City adopting the Building Code. He stated a good example was the non- conforming structure discussion earlier; structural integrity problems could be alleviated. He recommends the City pass it and wishes more communities had the Building Code. Mr. Nelson stated he included a letter in the packets. The examples of fees do not include any land value. When asked by the Chair, Staff stated new home construction in 2010 and 2011 included 10 new homes and 7 dwelling additions, resulting in $5,598 in Land Use Fees. Mr. Marohn stated that his quote in Chief Nelson's letter was true, although he doesn't want the Planning Commission to construe that he recommends adopting the Code. He stated this would be the preferred alternative, but the City and the Planning Department are dealing with more pressing issues and this would get in the way of that. He is not advocating for the Building Code. If we were to adopt the Building Code, future expansions could need to be brought up to code. There are many variables and property owners would need to consult a licensed design professional. Chairman Pederson stated this is good information and is educating the Commission. Mr. Nelson stated he thought this was a good idea for Pequot Lakes as he is a Councilman in Breezy Point and the fees weren't a big difference. He is concerned with the safety of the firefighters. This wouldn't solve all the problems, but it would be a step in the right direction. He felt a recommendation from the Planning Commission was more beneficial than just going to the City Council. It was the consensus of the Planning Commission that the timing is not right; they would like more information next month. They would like lists of communities in Crow Wing and southern Cass Counties that do and do not have the Building Code. They would like the information in a structured format, listing pros and cons. Also include information based on values vs. square footage so costs can be compared. b. Community Supported Agriculture (continuation) `, This will be discussed next month. MINUTES 4 Pequot Lakes Planning Commission October 20, 2011