The central debate of the meeting revolved around a variance request submitted by the Bridge View Estates Shared Lot and Dock Association to increase their dock’s boat slips from six to sixteen. The request was driven by the association’s expansion from 13 to 26 homes, resulting in increased demand for watercraft storage. The applicants argued that the current limitation imposed a hardship on residents, particularly seniors who faced challenges transporting boats to distant launch sites due to the absence of public access on Kerman Lake. They asserted that the high water levels during certain months further complicated access to the lake, impacting residents’ enjoyment.

Larry, representing the planning staff, presented a detailed recommendation for denial, emphasizing that the request contradicted city zoning ordinances established to prevent lake overcrowding and protect community welfare. He argued that the applicant had not demonstrated practical difficulties unique to their property, a key criterion for variance approval. The staff report highlighted potential environmental impacts, such as increased motorized boat traffic disrupting fish spawning areas, which had been a focus of the city’s regulatory efforts since 2018.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reinforced these concerns in a letter to the commission, advising against granting the variance due to the lack of unique circumstances and the significant deviation from the original slip allowance. The DNR stressed the importance of maintaining shoreline quality and following state regulations on controlled access lots.

Public participation in the hearing revealed divided opinions among residents. While some supported the variance due to the demand for more slips, others voiced strong concerns about the potential ecological impact on the lake and the neighborhood’s character. One resident expressed frustration over a lack of communication regarding the DNR report, feeling unprepared to engage fully in the discussion. This led to a brief recess to allow community members to consult and organize their responses.

Despite the applicants’ efforts to address concerns, including the presentation of a memo and claims of minimal ecological impact from the proposed slips, the commission remained steadfast. They highlighted the permanent nature of granting a variance and questioned whether the applicants’ stated hardships met the necessary criteria. The existing slips, allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis, were deemed sufficient given the lack of unique physical characteristics to justify expansion.

Ultimately, the commission voted to deny the variance, a decision that will proceed to the Community Development Committee and then to the city council for final determination. The commission noted that while it is rare for the city council to overturn a unanimous recommendation, the process allows for the presentation of new evidence at subsequent meetings.

In addition to the boat slip variance, the commission addressed other agenda items. A variance request for a garage on Shorewood Drive was approved after considering the property’s unique circumstances, granting a reduced setback to allow construction. The commission also reviewed a tax increment financing (TIF) resolution related to a 36-unit apartment project, confirming its alignment with the city’s development plan without objections.

Furthermore, the final plat of Long Lake Acres, a three-lot commercial development, received approval contingent on obtaining necessary permits. Lastly, a one-year extension for a variance on Randolph Road was approved, allowing continued progress on a flex space shop condo project.