Agenda - Council - 01/14/1997 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I I I I I I I I I I CASE #: REQUEST FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO EXPAND A PROPANE AIR PEAKING PLANT; CASE OF NORAM ENERGY MANAGEMENT Background: There is a pre-existing propane air peaking plant located at 7615 173rd Avenue N,W. in Ramsey. The plant is owned by NorAm Energy Management and has been in operation since 1976 without benefit of any conditional use permit. The subject property is zoned R- i Rural Residential for which utility facilities are not a specifically permitted use. Therefore, Staff has determined that the existing facility should be considered lawful non- conforming under current zoning regulations. Notification: In accordance with State Statute, parcels within 350 feet of the subject property were notified of the public hearing conducted by the Planning Commission on December 3, 1996. Observations: NorAm is proposing to expand the facility to include an additional 30,000 gallon propane tank and upgrading vaporizers, compressor and blender, which shall include the usage of a 10' x 32' x I0' controls building mounted on steel skids. This enlargement of a non- conforming operation requires a conditional use permit and NorAm has made application accordingly. Simply put, the plant converts liquid propane to a vapor and mixes it with air to give it characteristics equivalent to natural gas. During peak use periods or severe weather conditions, this propane mixture is injected into the natural gas system to enhance the capacity of the natural gas system. These peak periods average 20 days per year and there is an operator on duty at these times; and seldom are personnel on site when the system is not in operation. The following items are enclosed for your information: a) b) c) d) e) Site location map Survey of existing facility Text and Survey of expanded facility Draft Planning Commission minutes dated December 3, 1996 Proposed findings of fact Proposed conditional use permit The Planning Commission met on December 3 and discussed safety issues such as potential for fa'e and trespassing. The applicant informed the Commission that the propane in the tanks is in liquid form and liquids don't explode. The biggest risks are vapor leaks that create fire hazards. The operation of this type of facility must be in compliance with the National Fire Protection Association Booklet #59. The Commission also requested the application of barbed wire to the top of the security fencing to enhance its effectiveness.