The commission focused attention on the proposed Temperance Trails development, led by Peter Grubish of Green Bull LLC. The proposal detailed the subdivision of a single parcel into 16 residential lots on a 29-acre site zoned for single-family residential use. This revised submission, previously reviewed in August, aimed for full project buildout rather than a phased approach. Notably, the project was designed to include a common recreational space, aligning with the adjacent Birch Grove Community School.

The site plan strategically relocated a road southward to reduce wetland impact, aligning with the Wetland Conservation Act. However, this adjustment necessitated a wetland replacement plan through the acquisition of wetland credits. The adequacy of the road design for emergency services was scrutinized, alongside stormwater management plans that had to meet the state’s minimum requirements for a 10-year, 24-hour rain event. The unfortunate passing of Cook County Surveyor Wayne Hen left the plat initially unreviewed, prompting other surveyors to step in. Legal considerations regarding drainage and utility easements were also raised, as these may not be permissible under Minnesota law.

Public notice of the revised plat was deemed necessary due to substantial design changes, and the Cook County News Herald published notices to inform adjacent property owners and relevant departments. Three letters supporting the development emphasized owner-occupancy restrictions. Recommendations for conditions of approval included density limits, setback requirements, stormwater compliance, and the establishment of a homeowners association. Approval of the preliminary plat would allow progression towards a final plat, contingent on fulfilling all conditions and corrections.

In tandem with the development discussion, the commission examined a variance request concerning construction within a bluff impact zone at Caribou Lake. The request from John and Mary Warley sought permission to build on a site with specific zoning ordinance restrictions. The property, platted in 1985 before Bluff Impact Zone standards were instituted in 1989, presented steep slopes necessitating rigorous administrative oversight.

The Cook County Soil and Water Conservation District provided a technical memo advocating for stormwater management practices to mitigate development impacts. The Department of Natural Resources classified the application as non-controversial, proposing conditions incorporated into the report. Despite concerns about erosion and runoff, the Caribou Lake Property Owners Association offered conditional support, contingent on the extent of excavation required.

The practical difficulty was unique to the property, with steep slopes and bluffs characterizing most of it. Staff recommended variance approval, asserting it would maintain the locality’s essential character.

Mary Worley, representing the applicants, provided context for their property purchase, and contractor Tom DWI addressed topographic challenges. The commission, after considering public comments and technical assessments, unanimously approved the variance request with stipulated conditions.