03-20-2014 Planning Commission Minutes

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APPLICANT: Wilderness Resort Villas, LLC Applicant requests an Amendment to Conditional Use Permit to allow a 3- story lodge, expand existing beach area, create an additional beach, relocate a boat ramp and allow motorized traffic on walking trail. Applicant was present, Tom Steffens. Mr. Burslie explained this is the third Public Hearing and is not going to read the application background again. Last month there was considerable discussion and Staff was asked to rework the Findings of Fact and draft Conditions; the changes made are identified in red. He read the proposed Findings of Fact. Mr. Burslie further stated the applicant submitted an updated site plan,the colored drawing in the packet. At the last meeting the Planning Commission discussed allowing golf carts to access dock system #1 only, with a walking trail only to dock systems #2 & #3. The applicant has submitted different documentation to access the other docking systems on the plan. Mr. Steffens explained there was a lot of discussion at the last meeting regarding the golf carts and where they could be. The plan submitted is for no traffic beyond the places indicated. There were only a few Planning Commission members at the last meeting. Many things were discussed. He stated he wants to minimize motorized vehicle traffic on the property. He wants to encourage guests to walk or use golf carts for transportation for the handicapped, children, coolers, etc. Golf carts would make it easy for guest traffic. Cart parking areas would not be visible from the lake. Mr. Steffens further stated that he had made a determination to reduce the size of the building;they are now proposing to build a 2-story lodge building. For aesthetic purposes and appearance, a 2-story building is a better solution. They are reducing the height to 17' 7"high. This will make the resort more viable and it will be good for the resort and for the City. Mr. Burslie noted that this is new information being submitted tonight. Mr. Steffens acknowledged that is was. Mr. Burshe further stated that the layout will be approved as part of the platting process. An application needs to be amended in a timely fashion. The height being requested tonight is now 17' 7 1/4". Public Comment: Ann Beaver, President of Cullen Lakes Association — Reducing the height of the lodge took the wind out of her sails and agrees with Mr. Steffens regarding aesthetics, etc. The concerns of the Lake Association remain the same as the January meeting and included in the February packets. Regarding the boat ramp,they feel it's important when it is Minutes Pequot Lakes Planning Commission 4 March 20, 2014