09-19-2013 Planning Commission Minutes

Home Browse Search

PUBLIC HEARINGS: None. ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA: None. OPEN FORUM: None. NEW BUSINESS: a. Buschmann Property Acquisition Mr. Burshe explained the Staff Report. Stated the Council has directed the Planning Commission to study the property and determine if acquiring it would be in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan. Chair Seils states she would not like to see a property in the Downtown Mixed Use zone be removed from the tax rolls. Discussion on the possibility of constructing public restrooms on the property. Chair Seils states that it is not a good location for new public restrooms. The Chamber and the library have restroom facilities for the public. Commission Hallan states that if the City doesn't acquire the property,it may sit the way it is for another 3+ years. It could eventually be foreclosed which is a lengthy process. States that if it's foreclosed the property is not producing tax revenue. If the City were to acquire the property,the rehabilitation process for the property could be sped up. Commissioner Habein states there is another property in close proximity to the subject property that has been for sale for years. Commissioner Oraskovich questions what the cost to the City or an individual would be to clean up the property. Commissioner Hallan estimated it would cost in the $8,000 range to dismantle, clean-up, remove debris and address environmental concerns on the property. Councilor Akerson states the property is adjacent to the City Hall property and would allow for possible expansion. Commissioner Hallan states a portion of the property(e.g. east 150 ft) could be split and consolidated with the City Hall property. A motion was made by Commissioner Oraskovich, seconded by Commissioner Hallan to recommend to the City Council that if the property is acquired by the City, it should be cleaned up and offered for resale. All members voted"aye". Motion carried. MINUTES 2 Pequot Lakes Planning Commission September 19, 2013