The annexation of the 78-acre parcel, which includes a proposed gas station and a mixed-use building with commercial space and approximately 200 apartment units, was a focal point of the meeting. City planner Brian McCain explained that the annexation request pertains to 48 acres designated for annexation, with the remaining land allocated for the West Creek Village development. The annexation will bring the parcel currently within Lake Town Township under city jurisdiction, allowing for the development to align with the city’s comprehensive plan.

Concerns were raised regarding the traffic implications of the proposed gas station, specifically its access to County Road 11. One participant highlighted the impracticality of placing a gas station in such a busy area, stating, “Anyone who’s coming North on 11 turning into there is going to be sitting there for 20 minutes.” The participant referenced similar traffic issues at a nearby intersection, where frequent accidents occur when drivers attempt to turn left. The commission emphasized the need for a thorough traffic impact analysis to be submitted to the county by the developer.

Further discussion on the annexation revealed potential downsides of delaying the process. One member noted that any delay would be at the city’s expense rather than the developer’s, stating, “If development is delayed for three or four years, our taxpayers would have to wait for some of these essential services that our residents are asking for.” The urgency of the annexation was underscored, as it would facilitate the development of properties in alignment with the comprehensive plan and provide commercial services for residents.

A representative from the development team elaborated on the environmental management plans for the gas station, stating, “The pond is specifically there to service our tanks and our runoff.” The representative assured the commission that the company adheres to strict regulations and goes above and beyond in managing underground storage tanks. Adjustments to the placement of a catch basin for stormwater runoff were also discussed, with the representative indicating that changes could be made if necessary during the preliminary planning stages.

The formal motion for the annexation was put forth, seconded, and passed unanimously by the commission. This decision will enable the city to move forward with the development in alignment with the comprehensive plan.

In addition to the annexation, the commission also reviewed the ordinance for conditional uses. City planner Brian McCain presented the existing conditional use permit ordinance, which had not been modified since 1998 and consisted of 13 sections. The current ordinance includes provisions for bonding and agreement for dumping, lacks specific amendment procedures, and contains sunset dates and annual review criteria that do not conform to state statutes. McCain outlined proposed changes aimed at clarifying definitions and intent, formalizing the process for public hearings and ordinances, and creating a framework for amendments.

One commissioner raised concerns about the timeline for developers, inquiring if there was a standard window for adoption after changes are made to an ordinance. Another commissioner expressed support for the ordinance changes, emphasizing the need to accelerate the adoption process due to the current non-conformity with state law.

The commission also received a developmental update from McCain, who provided an overview of various projects within the Central Business District. The Amira project, which includes 147 senior living units and two single-family units, is anticipated to receive final plat approval soon. The downtown west area has seen the final plat approval for a 145-unit apartment building, and the Roars project is progressing on the third story of a four-story building. Additional projects include a veterinary clinic under construction and Hometown Bank revising its preliminary plat application.

Developments in the Victoria East area, such as Meline Trail and Brookmore, are progressing well, with final plats approved and construction ongoing. The Hunters Glenn project has received final plat approval for 21 single-family homes, and the Shores of Marsh Lake development features 42 homes currently under construction. In the South growth area, the Hunters Brook development is planned for 155 single-family lots, and the Hunters Brook Creekside development is awaiting approval for a conservation residential district. The Marsh Hollow development has completed its single-family rental homes and is now constructing townhomes. The Victoria South development has received preliminary plat approval for townhomes and an apartment building, with further applications expected in future meetings.

Additionally, the city engineer provided a review regarding grading and stormwater management for a parcel within Carver County. Compliance with Carver County water rules was emphasized, particularly concerning wetlands and necessary buffers that must be deeded to the city. The status of well number six, critical for extending water outside the current city limits, was also discussed, with delays pushing its completion to September.

The importance of working collaboratively with developers to resolve issues and facilitate necessary infrastructure improvements was highlighted.