Minutes - Planning Commission - 11/07/2019

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properties during the summer months because of the screening provided by trees. He stated that there are two garbage hauling trucks that leave one time in the morning and return one time during the afternoon. He explained that all the waste that is collected is in Sherburne/Wright County and all the waste collected is disposed of in Sherburne County. He stated that the applicants own five garbage vehicles, three of which are not stored on site. He stated that he is not aware of any complaints related to odor. He stated that the staff report mentions mice on the property and noted that he is a resident of Ramsey and also has mice on his property. He stated that as part of the application process the applicants recognize that there are things on the property that need to be cleaned up. He stated that his clients agree to work with the City to address some items to clean up the property but did not realize that the intent of the City was to disrupt their livelihood that has run on the property for 37 years. He noted that not far from the Birchem’s property is a sewage collection company that runs in a similar manner. He identified a commercial fabrication business located near the applicant’s property that has large semi-trucks that also travel down the roadway. He stated that the applicant’s business has run on the property without complaint for 37 years. He noted that when the business began the applicant was told that he would not need a permit from Anoka County because the hauling occurs in Sherburne and Wright County. He noted that only the storage of the vehicles and administrative efforts occur at the residential property. Commissioner VanScoy asked if the inoperable vehicles are stored on the property. Al Birchem, applicant, replied that the vehicles are located on the property but will not continue to be stored on the property. Commissioner VanScoy asked and received confirmation that only the two trucks used for hauling would be stored at this property. Mr. Birchem stated that there are currently five trucks on site, but not all of them are used. He noted that two trucks are used, one is a backup that is used only in emergency, and the remaining two will be removed from the property. Commissioner VanScoy asked the status of the Anoka County permit. Mr. Birchem replied that the permit is not required as long as hauling does not occur in Anoka County. He stated that in the past he spoke with Ramsey staff that stated a permit was not required because hauling is not occurring in Ramsey. City Planner McGuire Brigl stated that staff has received confirmation from Anoka County that a base license would be required, which is different than a hauling license. Community Development Director Gladhill stated that there is not a lawful nonconforming protection for a need for a license. He stated that if a license is needed, that would still be required regardless of when the activity began. Commissioner Anderson asked if the cleaning of vehicles that is done offsite includes washing the vehicles. Planning Commission/ November 7, 2019 Page 3 of 11