04:08The proposal, submitted by Greg and Brandy Gol, seeks an interim use permit to establish a dog daycare and overnight boarding service on a three-acre property along County Road 25. The facility is designed to accommodate approximately 40 dogs and 15 cats. Olivia, likely a staff member, presented the details, including site photos and the layout of the indoor area connecting to outdoor runs. The presentation highlighted that five residences are located within about 1,500 feet of the proposed facility, leading to discussions about noise management, particularly from barking dogs.

16:50During the public comment period, a nearby resident expressed support for the local business initiative but voiced concerns about noise and its impact on the rural community’s quality of life. The resident pointed out that the proposed facility would be about 600 feet from their home and suggested that measures be considered to limit the number of dogs to ensure manageable noise levels. The resident emphasized the need for noise regulations similar to those in other counties to prevent disturbances.

29:41In response to these concerns, commission members discussed the existing county barking dog ordinance, which enforces a 100-foot regulation from property lines to assess noise complaints. The petitioner, Greg, acknowledged the noise concerns and mentioned plans to plant trees and shrubs around the outdoor runs to help reduce noise. The commission also deliberated on incorporating conditions into the permit approval to ensure effective noise management if issues arise.

28:51The commission appeared to lean towards a solution that balances supporting local businesses with addressing the community’s legitimate concerns about noise. The deliberations underscored the need for careful consideration of the facility’s impact on the neighborhood, with a focus on maintaining a balance between business interests and residents’ quality of life.

42:51In addition to the dog daycare proposal, the commission discussed a conditional interim use permit for land disturbance activities on steep slopes for building an accessory road in Homer Township. The proposal, submitted by Beth Turner and Aaron Json, involves constructing a driveway to connect a farm field at the top of a bluff to the base, with erosion control measures such as culverts and a pond to manage water flow. Concerns were raised about potential legal and access issues, as the proposed access would pass through a neighbor’s property. The commission emphasized the importance of adhering to environmental standards and ensuring safe access for emergency vehicles.

01:05:54Another topic was the amendment to a conditional use permit for a manure storage facility, previously approved in 2017. The new proposal involves a concrete pit designed for storing manure, replacing a synthetic liner setup. Rob Miller, the presenter, highlighted the enhanced safety and environmental safeguards of the new design. The commission discussed the implications of amending the permit to align with existing regulations and the importance of adhering to updated manure application guidelines.

01:45:26The meeting concluded with discussions on the comprehensive planning process for Winona County. The commission aims to streamline processes related to conditional use permits and variances, with a focus on making it easier for applicants to navigate the bureaucratic process. The comprehensive plan project, contracted to SRF Consulting Group, is expected to last 12 to 14 months, with a steering committee to be established for diverse representation.