The proposed Cornerstone Ridge development, submitted by Brent Beck of Cornerstone Real Estate, encompasses approximately 109 acres in the Agricultural Urban Fringe District. Despite receiving a recommendation for approval from the Planning Commission, the development faced significant resistance from local residents during the public forum. Concerns were primarily centered on the potential environmental impact, with the lack of detailed stormwater control plans and the risk of exacerbating existing water runoff issues being highlighted. Local residents recalled past flooding, notably the significant 2010 flood, and warned that the hard surfaces from new roads and driveways could worsen these issues.

John Erickson, a resident, raised specific concerns through an email addressed to the board, criticizing the absence of comprehensive stormwater control and road grade information. Erickson’s concerns emphasized the potential negative impacts on local properties, wells, and the Zumbro River. He also pointed out that several lots in the proposed plat failed to meet the two dry buildable acres requirement, further questioning the development’s compliance with existing regulations.

Anna Grossback, representing her family, expressed strong opposition to the development. She highlighted the increased traffic, noise, safety concerns, and the potential unauthorized use of private land that could arise if the development proceeded. Grossback argued for the preservation of the rural landscape and existing property owners’ rights, asserting that the high-density development was incompatible with the area’s character. She demanded adherence to ordinances and community input before any approval.

Scott Nelson, another resident, underscored the threat to the local environment, mentioning that woods, wildlife, and farmland were at risk. He was particularly concerned about water runoff affecting his pond, which could lead to erosion and other complications.

Joe Rodriguez provided a detailed critique of the development proposal, challenging the acreage definitions and compliance with Wabasha County Planning subdivision rules. He expressed confusion over the terms used in the development plans and criticized the lack of a stormwater management plan, fearing negative impacts on the local aquifer and well water quality.

Jane Rodriguez added emotional weight to the opposition, emphasizing that the decision to develop should not be dictated solely by technical feasibility but by its appropriateness for the community. She urged the board to consider the long-term, irreversible consequences of such developments, highlighting the loss of pristine land and natural habitats.

Richard Ryan and Denise, two other residents, voiced their concerns about the intrusion of proposed roads on their properties, with Ryan noting the proximity of construction to his kitchen window. These concerns pointed to a broader fear of displacement and disruption among established residents.

In response to the public outcry, Kyle Skove, an engineer representing the developer, attempted to address the concerns. He assured that the development complied with zoning regulations and that a portion of the land would be deed restricted to prevent future building. However, this explanation did little to assuage the residents’ fears, as they remained skeptical about the development’s impact on flooding, environmental integrity, and community dynamics.

The board considered extending the decision-making timeline by up to 60 days to allow the developers to submit additional information regarding road curvature and stormwater management. This extension would enable a more comprehensive review before the final plat’s consideration, with the expectation that revisions would be available for the next meeting on April 21.

In other agenda items, the board unanimously denied a conditional use permit request from Thomas Rothering to operate a lodging establishment, following concerns about potential harm to neighboring property values and inadequate utilities. The board approved the final plat for Schmidt Acres, following a positive recommendation from the Planning Commission and no opposition.