07-17-91 Planning Commission MINCITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT SPM
Chairman Ing Roskaft called the meeting to order at BPM,
and asked for consideration of the minutes of July 17, 1991.
Larry Fournier brought up that the motion to continue the
Hearing on Riverwood Conference Center to July 17, 1991 was
not in the minutes. Larry Fournier motioned to accept the
minutes of July 3, 1991, with corrections. Motion seconded
by Mark Wallace. All agreed.
Mark Wallace motioned to accept the minutes of June 26,
1991. Bruce Rask seconded the motion. All agreed.
Members present were as follows:
MARK WALLACE BRUCE RASK CARL SWENSON
LARRY FOURNIER ING ROSKAFT JIM KOLLES
KATHY LEWIS
Staff members present were as follows:
DAVE LICHT BOB KIRMIS ELAINE BEATTY
JUDY HUDSON
Council member Doug Lindenfelser was also present.
Roskaft announced the continuation of Riverwood
Conference Center's Hearing and gave the floor to Dave Licht.
Licht stated that there are three items being considered on
the application before you. One has been considered and has
been already acted upon it is the inclusion of a PUD, Planned
Unit Development text amendment to the Ordinance. The
Commission voted to include that as a Cond Use Permit as well
as Zoning District Permit at the last meeting. The second
matter in general terms that is before you is applying a PUD
Zoning District to the property defined as the Riverwood
Conference Center, and the third aspect of the request
is the uses that can take place within the Riverwood
Conference Center. Initally the only consideration for
expansion was the restaurant as a public facility. Since the
last meeting it has been clarified that there are three
expansions actually being considered:
1. Restaurant as a public use
2. Pacos River Operation
3. Conversion of meeting rooms (Bluff House) into
guest rooms (NAC's Report said 12 - It was decided
that the actual number was 13 - will be checked out)
Michelle Laverenz stated that the renovation of the
handicapped ramp would allow for six rooms, and the nine
rooms above the meeting room already has a permit from Wright
Co. and footings have been poured, plus three more rooms for
eighteen total rooms. Which would be nine additional rooms
that have not been approved.
Licht stated that since last meeting there has been a
request to clarify property ownership (See Pink Memo from
NAC's office attached). It identifies the parcels of land
that constitute Riverwood Conference Center. Two pieces of
property were identified as not being reported with the
County as part of the Riverwood Conference Center. Those were
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT SPM - PAGE 2 -
1) The access drive, Wright Co has it recorded to Robert
Saxton and Stewart Turnquist (The City Atty has clarified it
as being owned by the Pattern Station, Inc.) - 2 Acres.
2) The 11 Acre Parcel (Has been awarded to Arlene DeCandia
and the City Atty feels it is only a matter of formality to
have it recorded and feels it is not necessarily a basis to
halt the action).
Licht stated that the first thing the Commission needs
to take up is a clarification of what we are considering in
the over all request. There will be a contract written
between the City of Otsego and the owner and it will specify
what uses are there today and what will be allowed. Licht
stated he feels the 11 Acres should be part of the PUD. As
part of the PUD the City has control and very specifically
specifies what activities take place on it. If it is not
part of the PUD it falls out of the jurisdiction of very
specific controls of items that are being pursued.
What action is taken is the Planning Commissions
jurisdiction. You should decide if it should be considered.
You should discuss and make a resolution as to what
expansions are appropriate. At this point the meeting was
turned back to the Planning Commission.
Roskaft asked if the Planning Commission wanted to
consider the uses before the PUD.
Licht stated that the property ownership clarification
is the first thing that needs to be decided.
Kathy Lewis motioned to consider the request without
ownership being recorded. Mark Wallace Seconded.
Stewart Turnquist asked if it is open for audience
input. Larry Fournier said he feels we should let them talk.
Turnquist said that there is no doubt in his mind that
the residence 11 acres was awarded to Arlene DeCandia and
those are two separate pieces and that there be no confusion
that the Judge met to bring the residence and Riverwood
Conference Center together.
Roskaft asked if the Pattern Station owns the Conference
Center?
Stewart Turnquist said the Pattern Station, Inc owns
Riverwood Conference Center.
Jeff Brock, Attorney for Riverwood Conference Center
stated that he disputes what the Judge said and the Planning
Commission should read the Judges own words. Brock stated
that he is happy that there is no question in ownership.
Licht stated that ownership is in question now, not
utilization. In terms of ownership, that the two properties
are given to two separate entities. The question before you
is the justification or the ability to proceed. Roskaft
asked for any further discussion. All Planning Commission
Members agreed.
Roskaft stated he has some letters and wanted to know if
they should be read or incorporated into the minutes without
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT SPM - PAGE 3 -
reading. What does the Planning Commission want to do?
Elaine Beatty read the letters that had been received. (See
attachments to minutes).
A resident asked if these Banks that wrote letters have
interest in Riverwood?
Tom Welch, Director of Operations at the Conference
Center wanted to submit some information - A petition from
employees of Riverwood. Also surveys taken in 1988 and four
names of people who called City Hall in support of the
restaurant at Riverwood being open to the Public. Welch
stated that he would like these items to go on record.
Chris Wallan stated that the benefit of a good
restaurant is not the issue. It is being in a residential
area that is a problem.
Tom Welsh pointed out why the restaurant should be open
to the Public:
1. Demand from the community
2. Response to focus group
3. Surveys of 1988
4. Petition of Employees
5. Also create better paying, stable jobs in the
community and new jobs.
6. Size of the restaurant will not increase
7. Dining with reservations only
(See File PC -71991)
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT OPM - PAGE 4 -
Mr Welch stated that there will be times when we will be
unable to open to the public. The reason we are looking for
a Liquor License is because we are only looking to control
the liquor. It will not be a late night facility. We want a
first class operation everyone can be proud of.
Gina Radjenovich stated she is concerned that a lot of
neighbors weren't there in 1988 when the survey was taken.
John Evans said he lives on #39 and is concerned with
traffic. I have four kids and I don't want to worry about my
kids.
Welsh said the added traffic will not increase
significantly as we only seat so many people. There will be
no dramatic increase.
Mae Spencer stated that they are talking about people
staying at the Conference Center and I feel there will be
more traffic.
Joel Radjenovich stated that even with minimal traffic
we don't need a restaurant. I live below the Conference
Center and they have proposed expansion. Will the septic
system handle this influx? I don't want my groundwater
contaminated. The restaurant has been open to the public
before. I know people that have used the restaurant.
Dave Licht said that the parking lot would need to be
expanded.
Radjenovich continued and said he is concerned about
cars dripping oil, etc, and it running into wetlands. I
suggest a collection point. If a bar and lounge is put in,
19 and 39 is a dangerous intersection. Influence of alcohol
will cause accidents.
Michelle Laverenz stated that the septic system was the
largest septic system in Wright County and it will be looked
at at the time of expansion. We have had several calls for
dining on a daily basis, but we turn them down.
Licht said the septic, parking lot, drainage is
important, but will be reviewed before the permit is granted,
but those are technical details.
Chris Wallan said she has trouble trusting Riverwood
when they tried to open the restaurant, the people in the
area did not support it. She said she received a letter
saying there is already a restaurant there. (See attached)
She said that their inconsistency shows they don't do what
they say.
Walsh said the hours are to 1AM, but will be open until
about IOPM.
Radjenovich said that this drainage and other items is
part of the PUD.
Licht said it will all have to be looked at at the time
of permit, and can be part of the contract.
Bonnie Lee said her concern is what they will say and do
are different things. We were asked to leave even though we
were told that we could use the facilities.
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT SPM - PAGE 5 -
Paul Johnson stated that we are hearing a lot of
conflict.
Glen Posusta said he lives in Island View Estates and
the jogging path that Riverwood gives out includes Island
View Estates Streets. Why? Public roads are public roads.
Walter Lee of Island View Estates said on Friday nights
I hear music at my house 1,000 yards away.
Steven Surep said he is an employee and has been an
employee for over a year now and they are not expanding. The
type of restaurant is not a dance hall or bar. It will be a
first class restaurant.
Shiela Greninger said that she worked at Riverwood and
that she has cooked for over 200 people at one time at this
facility for a wedding.
John Adams stated there is a whole different attitude
for people who work or go and have a night out.
Walsh said it won't be drink promotions, but business
people.
Mark Haney of Island View Estates asked if Riverwood is
proposing a lounge? Answer, Yes. Clientele for business
have a different attitude on business, but it only takes one
drunken driver. (there was a big applause).
Roskaft brought it back to the commission for
discussion.
Don Greninger stated that he was at a Comp Plan Meeting
two weeks or so ago and up in our area there should be no
Commercial Businesses. He said the decision should be no
problem. (Applause).
Kathy Lewis said this is a complex issue. Mark Wallace
had a question for Licht. Will the restaurant and these
items be individually discussed and we will decide yes or no
and decide if we will have a PUD for Riverwood? Licht said
the reason you are approving it on this basis is what happens
to be a major issue is the activities that will take place at
Riverwood. The activities you decide on will be addressed in
the PUD. With the number of structures on the property,
there is no other way to handle it. The major concern is
what are the activities allowed. Presently, the area the
restaurant is located in is B-2 Commercial. Someone asked if
that means it is a public facility? Licht said no. The
County should have insisted long ago that they are public
land with the primary use, a resort. The restaurant exists
as an accessory use to the Conference Center, not a public
restaurant.
Can Riverwood allow this to operate as a separate use
from the Conference Center? Carl Swenson said considering
the restaurant public or not, the question that bothers many,
is not weather it is a good restaurant, but where it is
located. The Comp Plan says that the land South of #39 is
to be rural and the land N of #39 is the most restricted
Residential area in the City, and obviously this request is
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT 8PM - PAGE 6 -
opposite of the intent of the Comp Plan. It was put in as a
resort by the County. Is it right to expand use to allow it
to be open to the public? The Conference Center does attract
a different clientele than a restaurant and in my view we
should not recommend approval of the public restaurant.
Mark Wallace said he agreed because of the Comp Plan.
There are many Home Extended Businesses and if we open the
door for one business, we open it to anyone else who requests
it. I feel it should not be a public restaurant. It should
be allowed to continue as a Conference Center.
Larry Fournier said his concern is that opening the
restaurant to the public it might spoil their reputation they
have. We have some unanswered questions. I have a hard time
making a decision he said. I would like some of the other
questions answered. Roskaft asked what questions? Fournier
said how much traffic will there be? How much extra noise?
Carl Swenson motioned to recommend denial of the public
restaurant. Mr. Welch said in answer to Larrys question the
traffic will be minimal. Mark Wallace seconded the motion.
Roskaft asked if there was any more discussion. Licht said
the traffic generated by Riverwood is not a problem. It is a
major arterial street. Traffic is not in Licht's opinion a
problem. Noise is more applicable. Larry Fournier asked if
we approve the public restaurant and it doesn't work out,
what recourse do we have? He asked Licht if he saw any
problems? Licht said assuming that we are only going to be
opening the restaurant to nine PM to serve and to ten PM for
the lounge. That will be in the PUD Contract. Conditions of
approval of opening time can be built in. Outdoor activities
can be built in also. I assume that once opened to the
public I don't think you can say six months and then later
say "no" you have to stop, once it is granted, it's granted.
Ing Roskaft asked for further discussion. Motion
carried, with Bruce Rask opposing. This is the
recommendation to the City Council. In six months they can
come back again (Riverwood). Licht explained the procedure.
When the Planning Commission concludes the Hearing it will
normally be two weeks before it comes before the City
Council.
The Pacos River Activities were taken next:
Roskaft asked for audience comments.
Mike Cyphers is opposed to the rope courses on the eleven
acres. It would interfere with my life style and make noise
he stated.
Mr Johnson wanted to have Pacos River Activities
explained.
It was stated by Riverwood that they will have Clients
come to Riverwood and go thru an experiential learning
activities. They have activities that they do:
1. WALL - three people harnessed together and climb 30'
on pegs as a team.
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT SPM - PAGE 7 -
2. ZIP LINE - Is a 50' pole, people are harnessed and
run down the zip line.
3. POLE AND BELT - Climb 40' pole and stand on top of
pole for 60 seconds learning more about themselves.
4. TRUST WALK - Blindfolded and run thru an obstacle
course lead by a partner.
That is what Pacos does. All of these poles and ropes
are secured when not in use. So there is no threat of
unauthorized use. Pacos River has expressed an interest for
more low impact use.
Joel Radjenovich has been involved in this training for
years he stated, and it becomes loud and boisterous. This is
another form of the Conference Center Expansion he said.
Paul Krause, a friend and business consultant of Arlene
DeCandia's for a few years stated that Arlene has built a
business of a lot of top companies in Minneapolis that come
out here. If the noise would get to you (neighbors) it would
get to the corprate neighbors first. Arlene would be the
first to say she would make some adjustments.
Micci Felber - Island View Estates stated that the
corporate neighbors would be able to go home, we have to stay
here.
Arlene DeCandia - I've come to these meetings year after
year. I understand the neighbors (Riverwood is 75
employees). We are trying to crete a continued, successful
business. Conference Centers have increased 400% since we
started. The world has changed. Other Conference Centers
have rope courses and we need to respond to them. We want to
work with your. Do we have complaints? It was built long
before you were here as neighbors. Something is missing
here. We are asking for this because market demands it, etc.
Doug Moline - From Island View Estates said we are not
disputing it's a great area.
Joel Radjenovich - Rope areas are in enclosed areas?
The Attorney for Riverwood said the rope course is not a
Commercial use. I don't feel one time a week, mid day 11-4PM
hours, is it asking all that much?
Mike Cyphers asked if it is generally 11 to 4PM?
Arlene DeCandia said if the Client wants to bring people
to Riverwood and stay later, it may happen.
Chris Wallan - I moved here for quiet and peace. I
haven't complained so far.
Arlene DeCandia - We've been here for thirteen years. A
lot of people moved in after the fact.
Mae Spencer said nobody has argued the Conference
Center.
Paul Krogstad - The Conference Center has changed. They
are having to look for new answers. It is a part of
conferencing.
Arlene DeCandia said we will loose business $225,000.00
from Cargill, Honeywell, Land O'Lakes, and others. Our
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT 8PN - PAGE 8 -
financial well being will be jeopardized. They have to go
elsewhere after having meetings.
Bruce Rask asked about noise to Mike Cyphers and another
resident. Tubers make a lot of noise. Answer: We don't
hear tubers above the bluff line. They are here and gone in
no time. They don't bother us.
Arlene DeCandia - May thru October is when they use the
rope course. It was asked if Riverwood runs it? Arlene said
"no" They are not versed in that.
A neighbor asked about going to an Industrial Park with
the rope course. Arlene said "No", they want the beautiful,
natural setting. We need your help. It's a fine line as far
as residents nearby.
Questions were had by Johnsons with the bell on the rope
course. Arlene said we need some help and support to
survive.
Don Greninger - said how many employees do you have that
are within one-half mile of the Conference Center? Answer:
More than one or two. Greninger stated that they had fired
the neighbors that were employees,
One of the present employees stated that he would like
to say that he spends a lot of money at Tom Thumb and
different areas. We have had many of the same employees for
12 to 13 years.
Kathy Lewis said she is completely unfamiliar with the
rope course.
Johnson stated that the beauty of Riverwood would be
blown by the course. If not visible from the road, no
problem.
Arlene said that what was described for you for the rope
course is the worse case scenario. These are temporary.
Mark Wallace asked if Pacos River Program is put under
the PUD could there be a trial period?
Licht said it would be possible. It could be a
contingency. It may riot work out with the applicant.
Riverwood is also a property owner and business. They
could have influx of noise from their neighbors said Bruce
Rask.
Licht said a concern he has is your decision relates to
land use harmony, not economics.
Carl Swenson said that most of us recognize that
Riverwood is a good conference center and that they do a good
job. The problem is we are talking about what it is going to
become, not what it has been. Are we going to accommodate
Commercial Use in this area? Comprehensive Plan says no,and
we will do everyone a favor if everyone has the same rules
and we all know what they are.
Stewart Turnquist had a question for a member of
Riverwood. Will there be expansion into the eleven acres?
Arlene said there are no houses down there, it's
floodplain and secluded. The rope course would be put in the
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT SPM - PAGE 9 -
middle of eleven acres.
Leon Ohman - Pointed out where -the course would be.
Stewart suggested the Planning Commission go to the site.
Doug from Island View Estates said if it is going on the
West side, where will they be? The low initiative would be
on the West end of the property. Nothing would be
constructed on the West side. We will put it below the
bluffline.
Kathy Lewis commented that some of these types of
activities are resort type of activities. I'm in favor of
considering some of these under PUD, not necessarily walls
and poles of that height.
Larry Fournier said he believes it is Wild and Scenic
and is it allowed? Light said he feels it is recreational
which is allowed.
Leon said we can get permits from the DNR.
Bob Spencer asked if you can decide this issue before
deciding how land is zoned?
Roskaft said everything will be in PUD and we are
discussing activities within that PUD.
Bonnie Lee - I'm not concerned about seeing a pole. I'm
worried about noise.
Arlene said groups have been doing initiatives before.
Lee said I live next door and I don't want extra noise.
Roskaft asked for a decision. Larry Fournier said the
only way he could support it would be on a trial basis.
Bruce Rask asked if they would commit to a trial basis.
Riverwood Rep. said meetings are booked a year or two in
advance. Kathy Lewis said the details could be left to
PUD Contract. We need to approve or deny the concept.
Bruce Rask said we denied the restaurant because it
wasn't a Conference related activity. How many people live
by it?
Roskaft said we could put conditions on the Pacos River
Activities.
Larry Fournier asked how many of the audience residents
could support a trial period?
Licht said it can't be a popularity contest. It has to
be that it is disrupting a neighborhood.
Roskaft asked if they have more than one conference
going at one time? Answer: Yes. Roskaft asked what if Pacos
River group interrupts the other clients?
Arlene said we would have to ask them to tone down.
Licht stated they should not consider economic vitality.
Harmony is what you judge it on.
Arlene said what Riverwood wants to do is not in
harmony, but what the neighbors do doesn't seem to matter.
Licht said the Conference Center was a Conditional Use
Permit.
Larry Fournier motioned to deny the request for the
Pacos River Activities. Carl Swenson seconded the motion.
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT 8 PM - PAGE 10 -
Roskaft asked for any further discussion? Vote was 2 in
favor, Swenson, Fournier, and 4 No, Rask, Wallace, Kolles and
Lewis. Motion did not pass.
Kathy Lewis asked if it is appropriate to approve this
type of activity with conditions in the Contract with the
PUD?
Licht said he didn't feel it was inappropriate to
approve it with some contingencies. It needs to be laid on
the table and discussed again in front of both residents and
Riverwood.
Kathy Lewis motioned to approve this Pacos River type of
activity upon the Staff drawing up contingencies for the
Planning Commission to review at the next Planning Commission
Meeting. Bruce Rask seconded the motion.
Wallace asked if that included the trial basis? Kathy
Lewis said we can discuss that when it is drafted.
Lewis, Kolles, Rask and Wallace voted for the motion,
with Swenson and Fournier against. Motion carried.
Arlene said she was sorry if she offended any of the
neighbors and would like to get along and asked about looking
at opening the restaurant one more time. No, was the answer.
Stewart asked if when the rope course was considered,
could input of the neighbors be considered?
Neighbors asked about the lounge being addressed.
Licht said we need clarification on part of City Code.
Michelle said at this time they are not making
application for liquor license or expansion of the lounge.
Licht said we have to talk about easement drainage, site
details and stipulations will eventually have to be addressed
again on the seventh of August.
Joel Radjenovich asked that the applicant has dropped
the application for the liquor license and expansion of the
lounge at this time be incorporated into the minutes.
Roskaft asked for comments on the Bluff House.
Stewart asked if there will be six more rooms? Licht
said eighteen additional rooms.
Michelle said there was a Building Permit obtained for a
large meeting room and nine meeting rooms above. (nine more
rooms with elevator being installed). The ramp will be six
additional guest rooms and the other three above Riverbluff
meeting room. (9 additional units).
Joel Radjenovich said the Permit was in 1987. Was this
Permit extended?
Licht said it was approved and the County addressed it,
even if work hasn't been completed.
Michelle said we've had to take over seven guest rooms
existing to utilize space.
Roskaft referred to NAC's Report of June 16, 1991. Nine
units are new.
Stewart stated that four sleeping rooms were approved,
not nine. Have they been reviewed by the County?
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT 8PM - PAGE 11 -
Licht said if the size of the room is large it is still
for one room. There was some discussion on the 12 additional
guest rooms that had been indicated in NAC's Report.
Michelle said 16 guest rooms minus five we had to take out of
commission. Thirteen is the total. Licht said we need
documentation on this. Licht stated we will get information
from Wright Co.
Stewart said of concern to him is the residence on the
East end of the Conference Center. When adding rooms, where
are you considering parking? Currently staff is parking
outside of the Conference Center parking.
Michelle said staff is parking in the other area only
for maintenance purposes.
Roskaft asked for action on the bluff house.
Lewis stated we need the Staff to get a clear picture.
Licht stated that clarification is needed, but you can
take your position on the activity. I assume it is
conditioned on the septic, parking, etc. We need to define
what thirteen additional rooms mean, implications.
Fournier said he has a hard time approving what he
doesn't know it is yet.
Swenson stated that if the concept is agreeable, we
could approve or deny the concept. It is not a popularity
contest.
Arlene said they are asking for a minimum of rooms.
Russ Greninger said you have to put on a handicap ramp
and elevator.
Arlene said no. They will put an elevator in.
Larry Fournier motioned to approve the Bluff House
expansion because it is directly related to the use that they
presently have, contingent on plans being submitted. Lewis
seconded the motion. Fournier, Lewis, Kolles, and Rask
agreed and Swenson and Wallace voted No. Motion carried.
Swenson questioned the Building Permit.
Licht said if the use was accepted by the County it is
grandfathered in. The County said it was alright.
Mike Cyphers asked if that is when we will discuss the
conditions of the rope course.
Licht stated the Planning Commission had directed that
the conditions of the Pacos River Course will be drafted to
the City Hall within a week or ten days. Neighbors can call
the City Hall and get them and put input into Elaine Beatty
or Bob Kirmis.
Roskaft asked for a motion to continue the Hearing on
Riverwood.
Larry Fournier motioned to continue Riverwood Conference
Center's Hearing to August 7th, (Wednesday) at 8PM. Carl
Swenson seconded the motion. All agreed.
A short 10 minute break was announced.
At 10:45 meeting reconvened with the Hearing on
consideration of Amendment to Otsego's Subdivision Ordinance
CITY OF OTSEGO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY
17, 1991 AT SPM - PAGE 12 -
of February 1991 to allow acres less than ten, to have Minor
Sub -divisions to be handled administratively and a
clarification of the Urban/Rural Service Area.
Licht said what we have evaluated is one per forty
tracts being subdivided. We are suggesting that as long as
all requirements are met, it can be handled administratively.
The process is that it comes to Elaine, she refers it to the
Engineer, Atty. and NAC. The Certificate of Survey will be
recorded if it is OK. If we have any problems with it, it
will be and can be brought to the Planning Commission. Licht
said he feels that there is no question that it is acceptable
in the Rural Area. The Urban Service Area (both immediate
and long range) Licht feels it should come thru as plats.
Section II of the Ordinance does not have a definition
so we are adding those definitions.
Swenson said the Ordinance doesn't specify where it
applies.
Licht said go to "C", that is what is being added.
Roskaft asked for comments.
Trigg Holl has a property in the Urban Service Area. He
said he misunderstood the notice. He has a lot being
platted in the Wild and Scenic area. He was told by the DNR
that the lots could not be further subdivided when sewer and
water comes in. Licht said that is true.
Fournier stated he feels he would support it after
Licht's clarification.
Fournier motioned to recommend approval of the
Amendment of the Subdivision Ordinance to allow one per forty
splits to be handled administratively. Jim Kolles seconded
the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Fournier motioned to adjourn the meeting. Wallace
seconded the motion. All agreed.
At 11:10PM meeting adjourned.
Licht said in the newsletter they have said the
Comprehensive Plan Hearing is August 21, 1991 at 7:30 at Elk
River High School and we need to go over this at the next
meeting on August T, 1991 or set a specific meeting to go
over this.
JAMES (R/.' KOLLES , - SECRETARY
MINUTES BY ELAINE BEATTY, RECODING SECRETARY
EB
oto 110 DClAJ�7
7-1-91
To: City of Otsego Planning Commission
Re: Planned Unit Development and Zoning Ordinance Revision with specific
reference to the 8:00 PM, July 3,'91 Hearing for the present
Riverwood Conference Center
I. Available Public Document dated May, 1991, "Development Application"
by Riverwood Conference Center (RCC) was obtained via accepted practices.
We feel that there was an omission in Attachment A (see bottom 7 lines
p.2) which should be corrected. The 33 ft. wide easement along East line
of Lot 2, providing right of way to Hwy 39 is held by RCC as "tenants
in common" with Stewart Turnquist. This easement was given by Frank
(now deceased) and Ethel Johnson (Parcel 214-100-131300) to provide access
to the homestead. It is our strong desire that this easement and the
property to which it provides access continue to be zoned "Residential
Property".
This easement provides access to RCC Parcel #214-100-132200 (11
acres) now zoned A-2 Ag (see Attachment B) and to 15 acres now owned by
;tewart Turnquist (Parcel #214-100-132202). Mr. Turnquist is in process
of building his future residence on this parcel.
Our first concern is that in awarding the 11 acre tract (214-100-
132200) to RCC the Honorable Judge Mary Davidson Winter (File #138854,
Hennepin Co. Family Court) has "taken liberties" actually belonging to
City of Otsego Planning Commission in de jure if not de facto declaring
the site to be commercial property. On July 24, 1990 we addressed this
matter in a letter to Ms. Lynn Rabuse, Asst. Planner, Wright Co. Judge
Winter and all members of Otsego Planning Commission received copies of
this correspondence but to date, we have received no reply in response
to our "allegation of improper and illegal rezoning of this plot" Judge
Winter stated that the 11 acres was on the date of the decree (6-18-90)
part of RCC and that it had been part of RCC for an extended period prior
to that date. Several reasons are cited by Judge Winter to justify this
action. (1) "Between the residence and garage is a paved path .... The
RCC constructed and paid for the path in order to provide additional
recreational facilities for Riverwood guests." The path existed many
fears before the property was sold by Frank and Ethel Johnson and we
believe that it was paved before RCC was incorporated. At the time Ms.
DeCandia left the residence (ca winter 1987-88) a second access had been
page 2
constructed on the East 15 acres to presumably divert Riverwood traffic
from the family homestead. (2) Judge Winter states that the most recent
.Addition to RCC is only 38' from the residence. What is omitted is that
the site in question (parcel #214-100-141401, now zoned B-2 Commercial
with a "Resort Conditional Use Permit") was originally the residence of
the third partner in the Pattern Station -RCC venture. It does not follow
that we, as concerned contiguous residents, should be further penalized
for past attempts by Wright Co. and Otsego Town Bd. to aid RCC integrate
otherwise unuseable property into their corporate scheme. We would state
now that we feel we are being penalized for consenting to construction
of what RCC now calls "Bluffhouse" at a distance that must be much closer
than 38'from the NW corner of the Ethel Johnson -Joyce Dewey property.
(3) Judge Winter states "a garage was constructed on the 11 acres with
Riverwood funds". There has been considerable difference of opinion
(and acrimony) on this topic. We note that on p.4 of Attachment B of
RCC Application for Planned Unit Development the claim is made, "The
garage was built with company funds and was intended for corporate use".
If the above is a factual statement, it brings to mind a public statement
made to Lloyd Dewey by one of the members of Wright Co. Bd. of Adjustment
at a Bd. meeting on Friday,Oct.12, 1990. "Since its introduction RCC has
stretched, pushed and exceeded any variances and building permits intended
well beyond their intended limits." As immediate neighbors and relatives
our recall is the "garage" was originally intended as a studio and office
for Stewart Turnquist. RCC would have probably stored some items in the
structure, however storage was not its original purpose.
We are not lawyers and leave to Otsego City Lawyer(s) the interpre-
tation of Judge Winters decree which deals with residence and garage
being used as debt collateral by RCC, however, in our perusal of much
of the "Finding of Fact" in the Divorce case, we are concerned that Judge
Winter fails to appreciate RCCs movement from a beginning "Mom and Pop"
venture to its status at the time of the Divorce hearing when the alleged
gross business of RCC exceeded $2,000,000. Judge Winter also seems to
be willing to give considerable preference to "Corporate matters" although
she is by appointment a family court judge.
In summary on this topic, we oppose the rezoning of this plot from
-esidential to commercial even though (a) Judge Winter has already ruled
in Civil Court that it is. (b) Judge Winter awarded the property to Ms.
DeCandia, who apparently has no intent to use the property for residence.
page 4
..z oppose the location of "Ropes Course" at this site. We further feel
that the nature of the Pecos River Training should be evaluated with
regard to how much noise is generated with the outdoor training and the
effect of said noise on immediate neighbors.
IV. In the past we have requested delay of planning and zoning decisions
until the divorce between the two principal developers is completed.
We still offer this suggestion!! Lloyd Dewey has read most of the briefs
in the Hennepin County files and has left copies of many with Otsego
City Clerk Jerry Perrault. Lloyd does not see an immediate end to the
litigation. In fact, he believes quite the contrary is true. The latest
request Lloyd saw was dated 6-7-91 and the files suggest considerable
litigation will come when Stewart Turnquist moves from his present
residence which was awarded to RCC in January.
Since these court files are available with Jerry Perrault we will
not dwell on the RCC conditional financial obligations, but we do request
that the City of Otsego weigh these matters.
We wish Ms Arlene DeCandia the best in her difficult venture of
being sole manager of RCC and realize that if she succeeds her children
and our children will have to concern themselves with RCC problems in
the future. At the present time, though we have differing opinions, we
trust that these will not affect future relationships.
Sincerely,
for Lloyd and Joyce Dewey
and Ethel Johnson
page 3
It does not seem that rezoning would be essential for storage of caustic
I other toxic materials, rather compliance with regulations that
require proper steel cabinets for their storage. Riverwood states they
consider turning the existing house into a daycare center for their em-
ployees. Joyce Dewey before retirement was a teacher of Early Childhood/
Family Education for St. Paul, MN School District and believes this is
possible without changing zoning designation. There would merely have
to be proper licensing of caregivers and the structural standards must
be up to code for such use.
II. Restaurant development. (see IV A 1, p.3) "Our goal is to extend
the use of our existing restaurant by opening it to the public on a
limited by reservation only basis." During the year 1988, citizens who
live adjacent to RCC reacted to a Wright Co. Planning and Zoning hearing
dated 2-18-88 for Arlene M. Turnquist to be granted conditional use permit
to expand . . to include a restaurant open to public by reservation.
Thirtyone citizens signed a statement in opposition to the proposal and
sent it to the appropriate zoning boards. Reasons cited were (1) that
he restaurant changed the business away from its original concept as
a Conference Center; (2) a public restaurant with alcohol available is
not acceptable; and (3) there was concern about added traffic. We do
not feel there has been significant change in attitude of citizens
residing near RCC at this time. (see Item f,p.5) Alcoholic Beverages.
". we are applying for a full liquor license at this time." Although
the attempt to justify this request for reasons of "control and liability"
was made, we believe their reasoning is flawed. On no other issue have
we found more emotional opposition in the community than "Liquor License".
We oppose this proposal and believe that the community strongly opposes
this proposed change.
III. (see Item 4, p.5) "We have formed a partnership with Pecos River
Learning Center." We hope "partnership" means "working agreement". For
those who may not have read Judge Winter's "Finding of Facts", RCC is
under considerable restraint re actual ownership at this time. We
assume that most of the ".Ropes Course" will be installed on the plot
_'14-100-141404, with a Resort Conditional Use Permit; however, the state-
ment "We also may put one or two events below the bluffline . would
be further Commercial intrusion into the 11 acre Homestead area. Thus:
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July 14, 1991
Otsego City Hall
13474 N.E, 95th St.
Otsego,Mn 55330
Dear Planning Commission Members,
support of Riverwood Conference Center's desire
I am writing in
to add a public restaurant to their facilities.
` and a friend of
A a resident of Otsego Township for 20 yearsand
understanding
As D Candia for 20 years I feel I have � 9 has made to our
Arlene e M DeCandias' business a
of the contributions s^ it had been operating^
community in the many successful years
Center had been a reliable employer in
The Riverwood Conference They have set a standard of
this community for many Years- l to any conference
in hospitality and ser«ice equal li te of economic
excellencei our state. In the Present c ma admirably as a
� center n d has been able to survive
challenge Riverwood continuing years in existence show,,
their con
heathy business as `^.__ ~ '
I would like to see a high quality restaurantinour new cityand
to encourage businesses to �� to
ive
think it is important.th ir business We are fortunate
approaches to maintaining their
to exp^nd her business in our
have a long term resident wish =
community.
It can
The benefits this restaurant will provideare many. It
while
l for residents from around `..e A
become a meeting place oƒ our homes to enjoY^ s
providing a ƒacility within a few miles f Otsego in the past
pro d Conference Center has done or lace to
the Ri«erwoo o future to put Otsego on the map as a p
it will do in the
go for good food and hospitality.
support of Riverwood's desire toopen
I am in complete in e years
respectable quality restaurantin Otsego that will
to come become the landmark that Riverwood already is.,
much for reading this letter and considering my
Thank you
very
in support of the restaurant
opinion. I will be happy to sp
meeting if requested.
at your planning
warm Rel.rds and A iation
PAUL A. JOHNSON
1.0645 97th Street N.E.
Otsego, Minnesota 55362
612-295-3369
Thank you for giving this group of people the chance to talk to you about
the future of the Riverwood Conference Center. I speak to you not only as a
resident of island View estates but as a concerned citizen of the new City of
Otsego. I am completely opposed to the first "On Sale" liquor establishment in
this new city. I cant see why we don't right now take the stand that Edina
took in the beginning, and that was to be dry; no off sale at all and only
have a city controlled Municipal Liquor Store, something that the City could
rec:ulate. I aril completely opposed to the e�Tansion of Riven ood fot the
following reasons.
1, Ri.verwood does not need to become "Public" in order to exist,, they have
been in our corimunity long enough to either be profitable or not. I personally
feel this is their first step in making the center more "Marketable" in the
future, meaning they could sell at a much greater profit being public.
21, How long untill vie get the first BUD LIGHT sign on the end of the drive?
Do we need these neon lights at all hours of the night as vie now have with the
current sign that has the neon red shining at all hours.
3; Do we need to see further advertisements in the Star Tribune advertising
River-ciood., not Riverviood Conference Center but s?nply Rivernvood. I Mould have
thought that they were all ready public by reading the piper.
5, Hoag long will it take till we see organized volley ball teams being
advertised, something that all taverns do in the summer in order to bring
people together to eat, drink and be merry, and. of course drive home,
6, Expanded restaurant hours are really not what I moved. to Otsego for.
7- hoc long will it take till we see canoe racing as a promotion on the
beautiful Vdssissippi River? All people should be able to enjoy the river,
but a Company promoting the use of it really takes away sorle of the beauty.
8 Why would. Pecos River want to be involved with Riven,7ood.? Why would
Riverwood want to become involved in Pecos? I would be willing to guess it
would be r-aoney. We all want to make money, but we hope it is not at our
neighbors expanses,
9, In Islandview Estates we will be faced with the folloviinc- problems.
a, Increased traffic in our area,, an area that is off the
main route of traffic,, something that we moved in this
area to avoid.
b, excess noise from volley ball, softball, and only Cod
knows what.
.
C, The promotion of our neighborhood as a benefit to their
clients, guests, patrons or what ever they call them,
Until Otsego gets its own Police Department to properly regulate the Ordinances
of the City. I feel we are i_n no position to promote the use of drinking and
driving, medical emergencies, river emergencies, or even the "regular
custoi:.iers" that occasionally need to be taken to the County Deto<r Center. This
is going way to fast without long-range thinking. Please vote NO on the
Rivenvood expansion.
Paul A. Johnson
FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF ELK RIVER
729 MAIN STREET • ELK RIVER, MINNESOTA 55330 • (612) 441-220 JUL i 6 1991 1
b
i
July 16, 1991
Elaine Beatty
Zoning Administration
13474 - 95th Street NE
Otsego, MN 55330
Dear Ms. Beatty:
I would like to support Riverwood Conference Center's proposal for
a public restaurant. I have been very impressed with the quality
of the service when I have used their facilities for our Bank,
Chamber of Commerce and City of Elk River functions.
It would be a benefit to the entire area to have Riverwood operate
a public restaurant with the same high quality of service and
exceptional food. They have demonstrated that they operate in a
very professional manner and have an excellent reputation with many
of the corporate leaders in the State of Minnesota.
S' cerely,
Duane E. Kropuenske
Senior Vice President
DEK/lk
ZIMMERMAN OFFICE FIRST NATIONAL MORTGAGE
Mary & Main Street 729 Main Street
Local: (612) 856-2266 Elk River, Minnesota
Metro: (612)421-0463 (612)441-7133
FIRST NATIONAL SECURITIES
729 Main Street
Elk River, Minnesota
(612)441-2200 ext. 16
FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF ELK RIVER
July 16, 1991
729 MAIN STREET • ELK RIVER, MINNESOTA 55330 • (612)
Elaine Beatty
Zoning Administration
13474 95 Street NE
Otsego, MN 55330
Dear Ms. Beatty:
P
2EE(�V'CE0Y
j,
'JUL. 16 1991 b
I understand that there is a public hearing set for July 17,
1991, at 8:00 P.M. at Otsego City Hall. The purpose of my letter
is to express my support for the application from Riverwood
Conference Center for a public restaurant. I personally, and two
companies I work with, have used the facilities at Riverwood and
I am very impressed with the quality of the facilities and
excellent service. I feel a restaurant that would be open to the
public would be a benefit to the entire area. I feel the
restaurant would be run in a very professional manner and urge
that you consider approving their application.
Very
truly yours,
K.S. Houlton
Chairman
KSH/c l
ZIMMERMAN OFFICE FIRST NATIONAL MORTGAGE
Mary & Main Street 729 Main Street
Local: (612) 856-2266 Elk River, MN 55330
Metro: (612) 421-0463 (612) 441-7133
�--«St
FIRST NATIONAL SECURITIES
729 Main Street
Elk River, MN 55330
(612) 441-2200 ext. 16
I I I I I � 111 11 11 0 7n
Aix Ik
F T1,11ttwao I
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
)ss.
COUNTY OF SHERBURNE)
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per known as The Elk River Star News, and has full knowledge
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The printed
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and was printed and published once each week, for I_suc-
cessive weeks; it was first published on Wednesday, the 1
day of 41
e_ _,19, and was thereafter
printed a d pubhsl hed on every Wednesday to and including
Wednesday, the day of
and printed below is a copy of the lower case alphabet from A to
Z, both inclusive, which is hereby acknowledged as being the size
and kind of type used in the composition and publication of the
notice.
abcd�fghijklmnopgretuvwxyz
Subscribed and sworn to before me on this
,19
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the above matter
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