05:29The meeting’s most notable item was the denial of a variance request from Sam Larson, which sought to reduce the setback requirement for a proposed attached garage on Shorewood Drive. The request aimed to allow a 14-foot setback from the road, less than the minimum required 30 feet. The staff report highlighted that such a reduced setback could pose a safety hazard for vehicles backing into the street, potentially endangering public welfare. The report further emphasized that no unique circumstances justified the variance, as the Larsons could feasibly build their garage within existing regulations. During the public hearing, no comments were received from the community, and a motion to deny the variance, based on the staff’s findings, was passed unanimously by the commission.

06:59Another approval came for a conditional use permit concerning a guest cottage at 1354 and Southshore Drive, submitted by Mike and Leah Larson. The plan involved rotating and relocating the existing cottage to comply with the required 75-foot setback from the lakeshore. Although the cottage slightly exceeded the allowed size for guest structures, the staff recommended approval since the request was for relocation rather than expansion. The commission agreed on the proposal, noting that the relocation enhanced compliance with local regulations. After confirming that the new lot configuration met width standards, the motion to approve the conditional use permit, with the stipulation of maintaining the 75-foot setback, passed unanimously.

14:28In a related development, the commission considered and approved a variance request from Meg Johnson for a proposed deck on Long Beach Drive. The deck’s design would increase the current setback from 20 feet to 27 feet from the ordinary high watermark, replacing a dilapidated sunroom. The staff report supported the variance, stating it aligned with the ordinance’s intent and the comprehensive plan while enabling reasonable use of the property. With no public comments received, the commission approved the variance request without opposition.

15:05The meeting also addressed the preliminary plat of Long Lake Acres, a three-lot commercial development at 2445 US Highway 10, proposed by Daryl and Elizabeth Justison. The staff recommended approval with conditions such as utility and stormwater easements, and necessary permits from the Pelican River Watershed District. Adam Guyger of Middleland Surveying confirmed the lot sizes exceeded 40,000 square feet each. The commission approved the preliminary plat unanimously, with no public comments opposing it.

17:27Additionally, the commission reviewed plans for Lyn View Estates, first edition, which involved rezoning from RA agricultural residence to R2 two-family residential. This reclassification aligns with the comprehensive plan and facilitates the subsequent development of a ten-lot subdivision on Shorewood Drive. The staff recommended approval contingent on several conditions, including a park dedication fee of $7,116. With no objections during the public hearing, the commission approved the rezoning and preliminary plat.

20:46The meeting also included discussions on the final plat of Midwest Edition, where the removal of stormwater drainage easements was noted. The commission approved the final plat, contingent on obtaining permits from the Pelican River Watershed District. Further, a revised site plan for Providence Lakes was approved, reducing the development from 44 to 40 units. The developers had previously delayed plans while negotiating highway access. The commission discussed parking requirements and the logistics of a turn lane off Highway 59, which the developers are responsible for funding, before granting approval.