The most newsworthy development was the board’s approval of the new Residential Open Space Overlay District. This initiative aims to allow higher-density residential developments in exchange for preserving open space, particularly in non-shoreland areas near developed regions and major roadways. The overlay district does not automatically apply to all properties but requires voluntary participation from property owners. The board emphasized that developments would maintain the same overall dwelling density while using land more efficiently. The eligibility criteria for this overlay specify that parcels must be within a half-mile of major roads and not within Grand Marais’s jurisdiction.

Discussions also covered the inclusion of wildfire protection plans in preliminary plat reviews. Concerns were raised about the potential hazards posed by dead and dying trees, which could exacerbate wildfire risks. The county’s emergency manager highlighted the importance of the Firewise program, which focuses on reducing fire risks by managing fuel loads around structures. The program has been active for over 20 years and emphasizes community collaboration, although it faces challenges due to dwindling resources. There was strong advocacy for integrating these risk considerations into the new overlay district to enhance community safety.

The board addressed additional planning concerns, including the renewal of an interim use permit for a hot mix asphalt plant. This plant, located on a 160-acre property on Arrowhead Trail, operates primarily between spring and fall. The renewal allows for up to 181 operational days per year. Public notices yielded minimal concerns, and staff recommended approval due to the operation’s remote nature and compliance history. The applicant confirmed that the renewal merely extends existing permissions, with no changes to the operation.

Another focal point was the discussion of amendments to the Cook County zoning and subdivision ordinances. These changes aim to refine regulations surrounding open space subdivisions, including site conditions, homeowners associations, and developer agreements. The board underscored the importance of clear language in these agreements to prevent exploitation of county resources and ensure consistent expectations for developers. Public feedback was generally supportive, though concerns were raised about the potential use of open spaces for outdoor recreational facilities and the impact on private developments.

The board also deliberated on the criteria for open space within the context of a conservation easement. The ordinance mandates specific criteria for open spaces, with an emphasis on balancing private and community use. Developer agreements, though not widely used in the county, are seen as tools for clarifying expectations and securing financial assurances. The board discussed the potential for higher-density housing configurations, such as “forplexes,” and their compatibility with existing zoning and infrastructure requirements.

Infrastructure considerations, particularly regarding transportation access, were also on the agenda. The board recognized the need for developments to be within a half-mile of maintained roads and highlighted the importance of coordinating with townships to assess road suitability for high-density projects. An interactive map displaying eligibility criteria was mentioned as a useful tool for evaluating potential development sites.