The most notable decision involved the approval of a variance request for a detached accessory structure on a property in Oak Glenn Estates. The property, situated in a rural residential zoning district and covering over two acres, faces substantial limitations due to wetlands and a drainage utility easement occupying a portion of the rear yard. The applicant sought a variance to place the structure closer to the street than the principal structure, citing the unbuildable nature of over an acre of the property.

During the discussion, the commissioners applied a three-factor test for practical difficulty, assessing the reasonableness of the request, unique circumstances affecting the property, and the potential impact on the neighborhood’s character. It was noted that while accessory structures are generally permitted, the unique characteristics of the land, specifically the wetlands and utility easements, constrain the placement of the proposed structure. The applicant’s challenges were deemed to be due to the physical characteristics of the property rather than personal preferences.

The commission also considered whether granting the variance would alter the essential character of the neighborhood. Given that neighboring primary residences are built at the minimum 40-foot structural setback, the proposed accessory structure was not seen as inconsistent with the surroundings. During the public hearing, no individuals came forward to express concerns or support for the variance, and no objections were received from neighboring property owners.

One commissioner remarked on the potential impact of the structure’s placement on the view from a neighboring residence but acknowledged that, given the wetland layout, there were few alternatives for construction on the property. The proposed structure’s size, at 864 square feet, was noted as being less than half the maximum allowed of 1,800 square feet. A motion was made to approve the variance request, including all staff recommendations, which passed with unanimous approval. The final decision will be made at the city council meeting on September 9th.

Another topic was the concept plan for a three-lot rural residential development on Viking Boulevard. The property consists of two vacant parcels totaling 60 acres, with significant portions likely unbuildable due to wetlands. The proposed lots meet the minimum requirements for size and width, and each lot will require individual access permits from the Anoka County Highway Department. The concept plan, if approved, would be forwarded to the East Bethel Parks Commission for review, and a standard park dedication fee of $2,000 per new parcel would apply. No formal motion was required at this stage, and the public hearing did not yield any comments from interested parties.

The commission also addressed a proposal to subdivide two large parcels currently designated as farmland and wetland. The proposal aims to combine these parcels and subsequently split them into two lots of approximately 13 acres and 13.85 acres, each accommodating a single-family home. The planning process highlighted the importance of obtaining access permits from Anoka County for driveways off Viking Boulevard, a County Highway. Concerns were raised about spacing, bypass lanes, and driveway widths, all of which fall under the county’s jurisdiction.

The potential for future subdivision of lot three, which is primarily wetland, was discussed, with the landowner expressing intent to place a residence closer to existing trees. However, no building applications have been submitted yet. The commission emphasized the importance of a wetland delineation and the need for an application to the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Conservation for any potential filling of wetlands. The discussion suggested that unless the landowner invests heavily in wetland banking, the wetlands will likely remain untouched, possibly making it a future concern for subsequent buyers.

The rezoning request for several parcels along the west side of Highway 65 from R2 to B2 was another focal point. This request stemmed from a property owner seeking to sell the former Hunters Inn, which had been inactive for over 365 days, thus losing its legal non-conformity status. The rezoning would create a continuous commercial zone along Highway 65 from Sims Road to 197th Avenue, including two existing residential parcels that could remain residential despite being in a commercial zone. The southern portion of this area is classified as a significant natural environment, requiring developments to adhere to specific environmental considerations.

During public comments, residents expressed concerns about the size of the parcels identified for rezoning and the implications for potential business developments. One resident raised questions about sustainable use and protections for the identified environmental features. No formal motions were made, but the commission acknowledged the intricate considerations surrounding both the subdivision and the rezoning proposals.