02-05-2013 City Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Minutes February 5, 2013 Page 2 of 7 ----------------------- - - - - -- COUNCIL MEMBER AKERSON SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED 5 -0. 4. Open Forum Jack Schmidt, 31179 Pine Street, Pequot Lakes, appeared before the Council. Mr. Schmidt addressed the issue of police squad cars running while unmanned. Mr. Schmidt indicated that there is a City policy stating that unmanned squad cars must be turned off, and the Council must honor this policy. Mayor Adams stated that she is not aware of such a policy, but she will check with the Police Chief and get back to Mr. Schmidt. Council Member Pederson stated that he researched this matter and the City is no different than the county or state. Mr. Schmidt stated that he is not concerned with the county and state, only the City. 5. Presentations No presentations. 6. Planning Commission Report Report received by Council. 6.1. Comprehensive Plan Presentation Chuck Marohn gave a brief overview of the highlights of the comprehensive plan update. Mr. Marohn stated that when the 2002 merger occurred between the City of Pequot Lakes and Sibley Township, the City had its own ordinances and the Township adopted the county ordinances and both were also merged together. In 2003, the comprehensive plan was finished and adopted by the City in 2004. The comprehensive plan was heavy on environmental, natural resources, and lake development issues but light on urban issues. The comprehensive plan has been updated to the new reality of economics, long term infrastructure liabilities, zoning standards, and the impact on growth and development. The comprehensive plan update has three main principles: 1. Health of the economy - reduce tax burden, streamline regulatory processes, and expand the market for goods & services produced in the area. 2. Expand the reach of the business community 3. Adjusting road standards