The primary agenda item was the proposal by White Birch, Inc. to develop a social club and support facilities on the east side of County Road 4. The application included plans for a new clubhouse, golf cart storage, and recreational amenities like pickleball courts. The clubhouse, designed to accommodate up to 216 individuals, aims to serve both the existing and newly planned golf courses. David Lander, representing the applicant, presented a plans including a three-level building with features such as a bar and restaurant, a putting course, and two golf cart barns.

Public concerns were raised about noise and lighting associated with the proposed social club. Resident Casey Mcznney highlighted worries about the noise from live music events, potentially affecting the peace of nearby residential areas. He emphasized the need for the commission to address the implications of introducing what he termed “the new biggest bar in Breezy Point” in a predominantly residential setting. Further, residents expressed concerns about the extensive lighting plan, which includes 24-foot lighting towers for the golf course.

The commission considered these elements, noting the importance of aligning the project with the city’s resort commercial zoning requirements. The discussion extended to the proposed lighting plan, which features LED directional lighting to minimize spillover, with operational hours proposed to end by 11:30 p.m. Residents suggested limitations on the social club’s hours to reduce disturbances, recommending that activities conclude by 9:00 p.m. to maintain the area’s tranquility.

Eric Hart, a representative of Breezy Point Resort, addressed queries about the project’s impact on local safety and aesthetics. He explained that the redesign of the golf course would enhance safety by relocating problematic holes and implementing a single straight cart path crossing, thus reducing risks to pedestrians and vehicles. Hart also reassured residents that amenities like pickleball courts would be secured and not operational after dark.

The commission evaluated the CUP application. A review of the proposal’s impact on public health, safety, and welfare was conducted, with emphasis on the need for effective stormwater management and traffic flow. The project plans include a stormwater system to manage runoff and a municipal sewer connection.

In addition to the social club proposal, the commission reviewed a plan to improve the Breezy Point Marina area. A representative from White Birch outlined enhancements, such as a new two-lane boat ramp and stormwater management improvements, aimed at reducing environmental impact and enhancing marina access. The project, with an estimated cost of nearly $500,000, seeks to support local ecological health and maintain the quality of Pelican Lake.

The meeting also addressed a request from a resident to unconsolidate two lots in Breezy Point Estate, which had been merged by a previous owner. The commission discussed potential non-conforming uses that might arise from this change and recommended a survey to clarify property lines and ensure compliance with current regulations.

Finally, the commission discussed variance criteria, emphasizing the need for applicants to provide substantial reasons for variance requests.