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proposed removing approximately 37% of the inventoried tree diameter, below the 60% permitted <br />by City Code. <br />Mr. Paul Olson, 5750 177th Avenue NW, expressed concerns regarding the proposed road length <br />and its classification as a temporary cul-de-sac. He stated that he had begun pursuing a <br />conservation easement for his property and did not anticipate future development that would allow <br />the road to connect. He questioned whether the proposal should require an additional variance <br />under the City's existing 600-foot cul-de-sac limitation. <br />Two neighboring property owners spoke in support of Mr. Olson's concerns, citing existing road <br />conditions and potential future connections. <br />Councilmember Buscher requested clarification regarding the existing road right-of-way and <br />public safety considerations. <br />Fire Chief Winkel explained that the proposed roadway would be evaluated under Minnesota Fire <br />Code standards and that additional review would be required for roadways exceeding 750 feet. <br />Police Chief Bluml emphasized the importance of multiple neighborhood access points for <br />emergency response and situations requiring temporary road closures. <br />Councilmember Riley expressed concern that classifying a potentially pennanent dead-end <br />roadway as temporary appeared inconsistent with the intent of the ordinance. <br />Councilmember Buscher questioned whether the proposed variance satisfied the practical <br />difficulties standard and expressed concern regarding the timing of proposed ordinance <br />amendments. <br />Mayor Heineman acknowledged the concerns raised by neighboring property owners but <br />emphasized the importance of respecting property rights when proposed development otherwise <br />satisfies applicable requirements. <br />Motion by Councilmember Specht, seconded by Councilmember Stewart, to adopt Resolution <br />#26-187 Granting a Variance to Lot Depth for Lots 1 and 2, Block 2, Rum River Retreat. <br />Motion failed. Voting Yes: Mayor Heineman, Councilmembers Stewart, Specht. Voting No: <br />Councilmembers Riley, Peters, Buscher. <br />City Attorney Amanda Johnson explained that the preliminary plat could not be approved as <br />presented following denial of the necessary variance. She advised the Council regarding statutory <br />review deadlines and the need to document the reasons for denial in writing. <br />Motion by Councilmember Riley, seconded by Councilmember Buscher, to Deny the Preliminary <br />Plat of "Rum River Retreat". <br />City Council / October 13, 2026 <br />Page 5 of 8 <br />