Minutes - Council - 05/23/2000 - Laserfiche WebLink

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continue to use the building for commercial purposes. State law requires notification of a public hearing to properties within 350 feet of thc boundaries of the subject property. Notices were sent out to parcels within 600 feet of the subject property. Mr. Barrett would like to relocate his current woodworking business from Cambridge to Ramsey. The activities would include various woodworking projects such as customizing kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, entertainment centers, and other various projects. The applicant would like to construct future additions including a 1,000 square foot showroom/office, another 5,000 square foot shop area, and possibly several self-service storage units. The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing on May 2, 2000; a resident was present expressing concern with the intensity of Mr. Barrett's business and his future expansion plans. Staff can find no evidence that a building permit was issued for the pole building. Item 34 of the findings should be amended accordingly. The Planning Commission recommended denial of the request for conditional use permit. Their proposed findings of fact to support denial are enclosed. If Council is inclined to consider approval of the permit, the findings of fact would have to be revised accordingly and City Staff will need to prepare an appropriate Conditional Use Permit. Councilmember Anderson stated she has no reason for doubt, but she feels the facts do not add up. Community Development Director Frolik stated the Building Official denied the permit. Councilmember Anderson asked why the property next door is being purchased. She noted it is not a commercial site in any form. She added there are persons who have businesses in their homes in this area. She stated now the request is for a separate parcel for commercial purposes. She noted there is no homestead on it. She added it is currently taxed at a commercial rate. Community Development Director Frolik stated the County taxes are based on use and not on the City's zoning. Councilmember Anderson asked if the fact the property has been used this way for 15 years, has any legal ramifications. City Attorney Goodrich stated it could continue as a non-conforming use. He noted the City could not stop Mr. Menard, but it could stop future use. Councilmember Anderson asked if Mr. Menard could transfer the use. City Attorney Goodrich stated Mr. Menard does not have the right to transfer the use to the new buyer. Councilmember Hendriksen stated the applicant not only asked to operate a business, but to expand it. He noted the City has the right to deny an expansion. City Council/May 23, 2000 Page 24 of 36