04-17-2008 Planning Commission Minutes

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Mark Meixner,realtor, stated this proposed use is extremely similar to the automotive businesses to the north. We may need to allow outside storage of one to three boats on west side of building. There is a potential partnership with a dock company. There would only be offsite production of docks. No storage of excess boats. Greg Shepherd, GMAC, asked if the trees Mr. Kratochvil plants will be destroyed when the highway is built. MN/Dot will not encroach on the lot. Parking should avoid the SSTS. Parking could be to the south end of the west side of the building. A fence would be an over the counter permit. There are standards for fencing and the applicant was advised to contact Staff. Existing trees on the northeast side of the property can be counted for the 50%buffer. Staff would be happy to meet with the applicant on site to help determine what additional planting may be required. Staff will wait for leaf-on conditions. Screening is calculated on the 117 feet. i A motion was made by Bill Habein, seconded by Scott Pederson, to recommend approval of the Conditional Use Permit, based on the following Findings of Fact: 1. The proposed use is an appropriate conditional use in the Commercial District as a retail store is classified as a commercial use, being that it provides services to the community. 2. The proposed use does not conflict with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The Plan discusses the role of retail businesses in the area and how they provide an effective means for attracting outside tourist dollars. Also, they are helping Pequot Lakes to become a destination city by bridging its dependence on the highway and the visibility it provides. 3. The proposed use, with conditions, would be compatible with the existing neighborhood as properties to the north and south are commercially zoned and property to the west is developed shoreline residential. 4. The proposed use would not be injurious to the public health, safety, or welfare as retail stores typically do not carry out activities that are detrimental to the public. 5. The proposed use is unlikely to be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other properties in the immediate vicinity, as the services provided by the proposed use would be held within the confines of the building and the proposed use is located within a commercial district. 6. The proposed use should not impede the normal and orderly development and improvement of surrounding vacant properties. There are no additional public services or facilities required for the development of this property. 7. The applicant proposes to access this property off a tract of land that will be co- owned by the property owner and the property owner of the parcel directly to the west. Both lots will be accessed off State Highway 371 on Tract C. This should Minutes 13 Pequot Lakes Planning Commission April 17, 2008