The meeting began with a discussion on a variance application, identified as 020-D24, for a property on Hazelwood Drive. The applicants, represented by Melanie Peterson, sought to convert an existing non-conforming structure into guest quarters for their extended family. The proposed changes included adding a bathroom to an existing large room at the back of a garage, which is currently used as sleeping quarters. The structure, located approximately 18 feet from the ordinary high water mark, presented a challenge given the ordinance-required setback of 75 feet from the lake.

The commission carefully evaluated the variance application against multiple criteria, including the alignment with local ordinances and the city’s comprehensive plan. The staff report clarified that the building was a legal non-conforming structure, existing prior to official control measures dating back to the 1970s. Discussion highlighted the property’s history, including previous shoreline restoration efforts that had altered the landscape.

Commission members acknowledged the necessity of the variance due to the unique circumstances of the property. The current owner inherited a situation where the structure lacked necessary sanitary facilities, which the commission agreed was a health concern. One member noted that the current use of a portable solution for sanitation was “gross and unsanitary.” The applicant assured that the proposed modifications would be interior-focused and that the exterior of the building would remain unchanged.

Additionally, the commission addressed the status of an unpermitted shed located near Hazelwood Drive. The shed’s compliance was set as a condition for the variance approval, requiring either its removal or submission of a land use permit or variance application by October 4, 2024.

After thorough deliberation, a motion to approve the variance application with the specified conditions was made and seconded. The vote concluded unanimously in favor, allowing the variance to proceed.

Following the variance discussion, the commission turned its attention to a significant new business matter: the city’s potential acquisition of land along the Highway 371 commercial corridor. The property purchase recommendation, identified as 02124, involved negotiations with property owner Stuart Mills for 34 acres of land, with the city intending to acquire 70 acres for future municipal uses.

The staff report emphasized the strategic importance of the northern portion of the property, earmarked for a city water system and a public safety facility. The commission discussed the alignment of the acquisition with the city’s 2030 comprehensive plan, particularly the potential to retain some areas for municipal use while selling others for private development.

Concerns about access to the parcels and future development were raised, particularly from neighboring property owners. The commission deliberated on the potential impacts on existing road infrastructure and the necessity of integrating the new parcels into the city’s long-term planning framework.

A motion was made to recommend the purchase of the property in alignment with the comprehensive plan, specifying the relevant parcel numbers. The commission voted unanimously in favor, recognizing the acquisition’s importance for the city’s future planning and development.

In addition to these major agenda items, the city planner’s report noted the issuance of eight land use permits and one shoreland alteration permit since the last meeting. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, carried unanimously by the commission members.