HomeMy WebLinkAbout[06b] Scenic Variance
STATE OF MINNESOTA CITY OF ST. JOSEPH
COUNTY OF STEARNS VARIANCE PROCEEDINGS
FINDINGS OF FACT AND DECISON
In the matter of:
Randy Schmitz, Rolling Ridge Properties, LLC
Variance Requesting Parking Lot Improvement Relief
On February 3, 2014, the St. Joseph Planning Commission conducted a public hearing to
consider the application of Randy Schmitz for a variance to relieve strict enforcement of the parking lot
requirements as they relate to his application for a special use permit to operate a events center in a
historical barn. The matter was duly published and notice was provided to propert
feet of the above referenced property. Needing additional information, the Planning Commission
tabled action on the Special Use Request to Mach 3, 2014.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: E ¾ SE 4 SW 4 Lying N of County Road 133.
PROPERTY ADDRESS: 31101 County Road 133
ZONING CLASSIFICATION: B2, Highway Business
ORDINANCE REFERENCES:
1.St. Joseph Code of Ordinance 52.07 Subd. 2
a) Administration. A variance may be granted to allow a property owner to deviat
the specific development standards applicable to a particular di
not be granted to allow a use that is not otherwise permitted in the district involved.
In granting a variance the Board, or the Council in reviewing th
prescribe appropriate conditions in conformity with this Ordinan
and the health and safety of persons residing or working in the neighborhood. In
recommending any adjustment or variance under the provision of t
Board of Zoning Adjustment shall designate such conditions in co
well, in its opinion, secure substantially the objectives of the regulation to which the
adjustment or variance is granted, as to light, air and the publ
convenience and general welfare.
When such conditions are made part of the terms under which the
violation of the conditions is a violation of this Ordinance. A variance s
granted by the Board, or by the Council upon review, unless they
facts:
1.The variance requested is consistent with the adopted St. Joseph Comprehensive
Plan.
2.The variance requested is harmonious with the general purposes and
governing Zoning District Ordinance.
3.The Applicant establishes that there are practical difficulties
zoning ordinance. Practical difficulties as used in connection with the granting of a
variance shall mean:
a.The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable
not permitted by the zoning ordinance.
b.The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to th
not created by the landowner.
c.The variance, if granted will not alter the essential character
4.Economic considerations alone shall not constitute practical dif
terms of this Ordinance.
5.Practical difficulties shall include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct
sunlight for solar energy systems.
6.Variances shall be granted for earth sheltered construction as d
216C.06, Subd. 14 as may be amended, when in harmony with the zo
ordinance.
2.St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.10 Subd. 4(j) requires in all districts where off-street parking lots
are permitted or required such off-street parking shall be constructed and maintained subject to
the following regulations:
a. &..
b. &..
c. &..
d. Such parking lots shall be constructed and maintained in a useable condition, with
hard surface consisting of concrete, bituminous, pavement or pav
drain and dispose of surface water. Recycled bituminous or conc
except as permitted in an industrial area by special use permit or variance.
3.St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.32 Subd. 5 Conditions Applicable to all Special Use Permits:
requires:
a. &..
b. &..
c. &..
d. &..
e. The entire site other than that taken up by a building, structure or plantings shall be
surfaced so as to control dust subject to the approval of the Ci
f. The entire area shall have a drainage system subject to the appr
Engineer.
The Planning Commission accepted the following testimony:
1. Steve Gohman expressed concern that as an adjacent land owner wi
concerned about trespass. Through discussion it was determined
is fenced thereby reducing the trespass issue.
Upon the hearing being closed, the Planning Commission deliberated the following:
1.Application of zoning Ordinances and when variances are granted
2.Does the venue of a rural setting create a need for a variance
In an effort to gather additional information, the Planning Commled action on the public
hearing to the March 3, 2014 Planning Commission meeting, at whi
presented for deliberation:
1.The applicant is proposing to use the property consistent with t
2.The variance requested is harmonious with the adjacent area as the property is par
acre farmstead.
3.The property owner is requesting relief from the parking lot pro
in a rural setting and paving the parking area would alter the cstics of the area.
4.The events center is a seasonal business that only requires park
scheduled. The parking areas are not needed when the facility i
5.The property owner can provide 22 parking spaces that are paved used for the
special events.
DECISION AND CONCLUSION
Based on the Finding of Fact, the St. Joseph Planning Commission recommended
approval/denial of the Variance based on the following conclusions:
1. The variance requested is harmonious with the general purposes and intent of the governing
Zoning District Ordinance
2. The unpaved parking lot fits the character of the facility.
Based on the foregoing Finding of Fact and Decision and Conclusi
Commission, the request for variance on the strict enforcement of the parking requirement is
forwarded as approval/denial with the following contingencies:
1. The variance be reviewed if the event center becomes a year-round facility.
Therefore, based on the above findings, the St. Joseph City Council affirms the actio
Commission granting a Variance to relieve strict enforcement of
relate to his application for a special use permit to operate a enter in a historical barn at 31101
County Road 133 is hereby granted to Randy Schmitz with the cond
Adopted this day of , 2014.
CITY OF ST. JOSEPH
By
Rick Schultz, Mayor
By
Judy Weyrens, Administrator
STATE OF MINNESOTA CITY OF ST. JOSEPH
COUNTY OF STEARNS
In the matter of:
Randy Schmitz, Rolling Ridge Properties, LLC
Variance Requesting Parking Lot Improvement Relief
VARIANCE PROCEEDINGS
FINDINGS OF FACT AND DECISON
On February 3, 2014, the St. Joseph Planning Commission conducted a public hearing to
consider the application of Randy Schmitz for a variance to relieve strict enforcement of the parking lot
requirements as they relate to his application for a special use permit to operate a events center in a
historical barn. The matter was duly published and notice was provided to property owners within 350
feet of the above referenced property. Needing additional information, the Planning Commission
tabled action on the Special Use Request to Mach 3, 2014.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: E % SE 4 SW 4 Lying N of County Road 133.
PROPERTY ADDRESS: 31101 County Road 133
ZONING CLASSIFICATION: B2, Highway Business
ORDINANCE REFERENCES:
1. St. Joseph Code of Ordinance 52.07 Subd. 2
a) Administration. A variance may be granted to allow a property owner to deviate from
the specific development standards applicable to a particular district. A variance shall
not be granted to allow a use that is not otherwise permitted in the district involved.
In granting a variance the Board, or the Council in reviewing the Board's decision, may
prescribe appropriate conditions in conformity with this Ordinance to protect properties
and the health and safety of persons residing or working in the neighborhood. In
recommending any adjustment or variance under the provision of this Section, the
Board of Zoning Adjustment shall designate such conditions in connection therewith as
well, in its opinion, secure substantially the objectives of the regulation to which the
adjustment or variance is granted, as to light, air and the public health, safety, comfort,
convenience and general welfare.
When such conditions are made part of the terms under which the variance is granted,
violation of the conditions is a violation of this Ordinance. A variance shall not be
granted by the Board, or by the Council upon review, unless they find the following
facts:
1. The variance requested is consistent with the adopted St. Joseph Comprehensive
Plan.
2. The variance requested is harmonious with the general purposes and intent of the
governing Zoning District Ordinance.
3. The Applicant establishes that there are 'practical difficulties' in complying with the
zoning ordinance. Practical difficulties as used in connection with the granting of a
variance shall mean:
a. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner
not permitted by the zoning ordinance.
b. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property
not created by the landowner.
c. The variance, if granted will not alter the essential character of the locality.
4. Economic considerations alone shall not constitute practical difficulties under the
terms of this Ordinance.
5. Practical difficulties shall include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct
sunlight for solar energy systems.
6. Variances shall be granted for earth sheltered construction as defined in MN Statute
216C.06, Subd. 14 as may be amended, when in harmony with the zoning
ordinance.
2. St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.10 Subd. 4(i) requires in all districts where off - street parking lots
are permitted or required such off - street parking shall be constructed and maintained subject to
the following regulations:
a.
d. Such parking lots shall be constructed and maintained in a useable condition, with a
hard surface consisting of concrete, bituminous, pavement or paver stone designed to
drain and dispose of surface water. Recycled bituminous or concrete shall be prohibited
except as permitted in an industrial area by special use permit or variance.
3. St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.32 Subd. 5 Conditions Applicable to all Special Use Permits:
requires:
a.
b. .....
C. .....
e. The entire site other than that taken up by a building, structure or plantings shall be
surfaced so as to control dust subject to the approval of the City Engineer.
f. The entire area shall have a drainage system subject to the approval of the City
Engineer.
The Planning Commission accepted the following testimony:
1. Steve Gohman expressed concern that as an adjacent land owner with cattle he was
concerned about trespass. Through discussion it was determined that the property line
is fenced thereby reducing the trespass issue.
Upon the hearing being closed, the Planning Commission deliberated the following:
1. Application of zoning Ordinances and when variances are granted
2. Does the venue of a rural setting create a need for a variance
In an effort to gather additional information, the Planning Commission tabled action on the public
hearing to the March 3, 2014 Planning Commission meeting, at which the following information was
presented for deliberation:
1. The applicant is proposing to use the property consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
2. The variance requested is harmonious with the adjacent area as the property is part of a 40
acre farmstead.
3. The property owner is requesting relief from the parking lot provisions to keep the property
in a rural setting and paving the parking area would alter the characteristics of the area.
4. The events center is a seasonal business that only requires parking when events are
scheduled. The parking areas are not needed when the facility is not rented.
S. The property owner can provide 22 parking spaces that are paved and can be used for the
special events.
DECISION AND CONCLUSION
Based on the Finding of Fact, the St. Joseph Planning Commission recommended
approval /denial of the Variance based on the following conclusions:
1.
2.
3.
Based on the foregoing Finding of Fact and Decision and Conclusion of the St. Joseph Planning
Commission, the request for variance on the strict enforcement of the parking requirement is being
forwarded as approval /denial with the following contingencies:
1.
2.
3.
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February 3, 2014
13
Page of
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the Planning Commission for the City of St. Joseph met in regular
session on Monday, February 3, 2014 at 6:30 PM in the St. Joseph City hall opening with the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Members Present: Chair Ross Rieke, Commissioners Gina Dullinger, Matt Killam, Daryl Shaefer, Brad
Cobb, City Administrator Judy Weyrens.
Others Present: Tom Klein, Jerry Gohmann, Gerry Gohmann, Steve Gohmann
Killam made a motion to approve the agenda as presented; seconded by
Approval of the Agenda:
Schultz seconded. Motion carried unanimously by those present.
Approval of the Minutes: Rieke stated that he has not had the time to review the minutes from the prior
meetings. Dullinger stated that she doesn’t have all the pages. The approval of the minutes will be carried
over to the next meeting in order for the Commission to receive all pages of the minutes.
Public Hearing, Special Use/Variance: Rieke called the hearing to order to which Weyrens stated that the
purpose of the meeting is to consider a Special Use Permit and Variance Request to allow the operation
of an events center at 31101 County Road 133, St. Joseph MN. The variance is being requested to
relieve strict enforcement of the parking lot regulations.
St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.32 Subd. 4(j) requires issuance of a special use permit for
recreations services such as theaters, bowling establishments and clubs and lodges. The
proposed events center is similar in nature to the aforementioned.
St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.10 Subd. 5 identifies the requirements for parking lots to
include hard surface material and curbing. The property owner is requesting relief from the
design standards.
The property for which Special Use and Variance is being sought is located at 31101 County Road 133,
a.k.a. Scenic Specialties, legally described as E ¾ SE 4 SW 4 Lying N of County Road 133. The request
has been submitted by Rolling Ridge Properties LLC, 9670 Deerwood Rd NE, Rice MN 56367.
Randy Schmitz spoke on his own behalf, owner of Scenic Specialties. Schmitz stated that he is proposing
to convert the existing century barn into an events center hosting primarily weddings and some
occasional corporate events. The facility would operate between May and October of each year with the
long range plan of operating a year round facility. Schmitz stated that the events would be high end
events and not include concerts or drinking types of events.
Weyrens stated that she added in the agenda links to other places that have the same events in barns. It
is a place to hold private events for a fee. Schaefer asked what the ideas would be for parking. Schmitz
stated that there are two areas that they would like to keep unpaved in order to stick with the overall look
of the event center. Weyrens stated that the proposed events center would be a unique opportunity for
the City of St. Joseph as there are no others like it nearby.
Cobb stated that the plans look very nice but is concerned with what types of fire protection that may be
out there as well as the amount of lighting. Schmitz stated that will be included in the building permit
process. He added that the current light posts in the entrance will be replaced with LED lights which will
be 2-3 times brighter.
th
Steve Gohmann, 8881 315 St spoke in regard to impact to adjoining property. Gohmann stated he lives
directly north of the event center. His main concern is that the grass area boarders their pasture area
where there are numerous cattle roaming. Gohmann is worried that people attending the events may
cross over onto their property. Gohman stated that the property line is currently fenced with barbed wire,
but is concerned about people’s curiosity when attending events. Rieke stated that since the property is
fenced the matter should be resolved. He encouraged Schmitz to discuss the concerns with Gohman
and if need add some signage or change the fencing.
February 3, 2014
23
Page of
As no one else was wising to speak, Rieke closed the public hearing at 6:45 PM.
Weyrens clarified that the actions before the Planning Commission are two separate actions. The first
matter is the issuance of a special use permit to allow an events center. The B2 Highway Business
Ordinance requires issuance of a special use permit for recreational operations and the proposed use is
similar in nature. The issuance of a special use permit allows the City to identify the specific use and
attach reasonable regulations.
The second matter before the Planning Commission is a variance to relief the property owner from strict
enforcement of the parking lot requirements. Schmitz is proposing to utilize field space for parking and
has provided adequate parking spaces for the proposed use. Schmitz stated that he is still working on his
parking plan but is hoping to provide valet parking for the guests. The venue can support between 200 –
300 persons and based on 1 parking space for every four, he would need approximately 70 parking
spaces and then additional for staff.
Killam questioned Schmitz as to his timeline for opening. Schmitz stated that he has engaged an
architect to work through the building codes issues and hopes to secure a building permit in April and be
ready for operation in August/September
Rieke asked the Commission if there are any additional areas of concern that has not been addressed by
staff. He added that from a business mindset, he agrees that not having the lot paved will go with the
overall look of the venue and the business is an opportunity for the City.
Schulz stated that while he is supportive of the proposed use, he questions the requested variance and if
th
the City is being consistent in applying the requirements. Recently the City required a business on 8
Ave SE to pave the parking area and in the matter before the Commission, the request is for relief.
Weyrens stated that the proposed use is rural in nature and the parking on natural turf is part of the
th
overall theme of the center; whereas the property on 8 Avenue was a business and the parking lot was
to showcase their merchandise. Schaefer stated that he concurred that is was a more natural parking
area and stated that the property does already contain paved parking areas, so he is not relieved from all
paving. Dullinger questioned if there is a difference between special event parking as the parking lot will
only be used during special events. Schultz clarified that he is supportive of the proposed use, he is
looking for consistency in ordinance application. Schmitz stated that potentially down the road, they could
pave the parking lot, however that would not go with the character of the lot. The event center is looking
operate May – October.
Rieke asked if there were any conversations with the Police Chief regarding having an off-duty officer at
the events. Weyrens stated there was not. Staff is in the process of outlining all the issues and is
recommending the Planning Commission table action on the matter to the next regular Commission
meeting.
Cobb asked what the timeline would be. Weyrens stated that the item would be brought back to the
rdth
Planning Commission on March 3 and to the City Council on March 6.
Dullinger made a motion to table the public hearing for the special use and variance request
submitted by Randy Schmitz to March 3rd. The motion was seconded by Killam and passed
unanimously.
Ordinance 52.11 Signs: Weyrens stated that they had requested the EDA provide additional input than
what was given at the joint meeting on signage. They had some discussion on what they would like to see
in a B3 zone. Staff will be formulating some information to present to the Planning Commission on the
rd
March 3 meeting. On the B3 corridor the EDA would like it to be more of a greenway, something more
pleasing to the eye then having large signs. The minutes from the joint meeting will be ready and put with
the next agenda for approval.
A`� l CITY OF ST. JOSEPH
http : / /mn- stioseph.civicplus.com
City of St. Joseph
Public Hearing
Judy Weyrens
Administrator
Publish: January 24, 2104
Note: MN Statute requires mailed
notice to all property owners
within 350 feet of a variance,
special /interim use or rezoning.
is College Avenue North . PO Box b68 . Saint Joseph, Minnesota (6374
Phone 3zo.363.7zoi Fax 3io.3b3.0342.
The St. Joseph Planning Commission will be conducting a public hearing on Monday,
Administrator
February 3, 2014 at 6:30 PM in the St. Joseph City Hail, 25 College Avenue N to consider a
Judy Wcyrens
special use and variance to allow the operation of an events center at 31101 County Road
133, St. Joseph MN. The variance is being requested to relieve strict enforcement of the
parking lot regulations.
Mayor
Rick Schultz
St. Joseoh Code of Ordinances 52.32 Subd. Q) requires issuance of a special use permit for
recreations services such as theaters, bowling establishments and clubs and lodges. The
Councilors
proposed events center is similar in nature to the aforementioned.
Steve Flank
Bob Loso
St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.10 Subd. 5 identifies the requirements for parking lots to
Re= Symanieu
include hard surface material and curbing. The property owner is requesting relief from the
pale Vick
design standards.
The property for which Special Use and Variance is being sought is located at 31101 County
Road 133, a.k.a. Scenic Specialties, legally described as E % SE 4 SW 4 Lying N of County Road
133. The request has been submitted by Rolling Ridge Properties LLC, 9670 Deerwood Rd
NE, Rice MN 56367.
Judy Weyrens
Administrator
Publish: January 24, 2104
Note: MN Statute requires mailed
notice to all property owners
within 350 feet of a variance,
special /interim use or rezoning.
is College Avenue North . PO Box b68 . Saint Joseph, Minnesota (6374
Phone 3zo.363.7zoi Fax 3io.3b3.0342.
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APPLICATION FOR VARIANCE
City of St. Joseph
25 College Avenue N
PO Box 668
St. Joseph, MN 56374
Phone (320)363 -7201 or Fax (320)363 -0342
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
) ss
COUNTY OF STEARNS )
Fee $
Paid
Date
I/We, the undersigned, hereby make the following application to the City Council and Planning Commission of the City of St. Joseph,
Steams County, Minnesota. (Applicants have the responsibility of checking all applicable ordinances pertaining to their application
and complying with the ordinance requirements.)
PROPERTY OWNER NAME: Rolling Ridge Properties, LLC.
PROPERTY OWNER PHONE NUMBER(S): 3,209,803,124
PROPERTY OWNER ADDRESS: 31101 County Road 133 St. Joseph
ZONING DISTRICT: B2 Highway Business
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: 14.26AC E3 /4SE4SW4 Lying N of CO RD 133
PROPERTY OWNERSIGNATURE(S): Randy L Schmitz
EMAIL- randys @scenicspecialtiescom
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1. The request(s) which we desire for our property Is/are in conflict with the following section(s) of the St. Joseph City Code:
Section: 02 Section: Township 124 Section: Range 029
2. Proposed non -conformance(s):
Proposal to allow non - paved, off street parking as overflow for events held outdoors during summer months. (All parking spaces
are to be paved with curb as per Ordinance 52)
3. What special condidtions and circumstances exist which are particular to the land, structure or building(s) Involved which do not apply
to the land, structures or buildings) In the same zoning classification? (attach additional pages as need)
purchased our 14 acre property (which had been previously designated as Century Farm) 12 years ago and annexed it into the
. We had to annex into the city because the nature of our business (retail) didn't allow for us to remain within the township. Our
I was/ is to keep, maintain and put to use the buildings that already exist on the property that have historical significance. Since
se buildings are very "agricultural" in nature, we would like to further embrace this unique feature by hosting events that use the
door spaces (the wooded hillside, fields and barns).
4. Do any of the special conditions and circumstances result from your own actlonsl if the answer is yes, you may not qua* for a variance.
f i Yes Vj No
S. What facts and considerations demonstrate that the literal interpretation of the zoning code would deprive you of rights commonly
enjoyed by other properties in the some district under the terms of the zoning code? (attach additional pages as needed)
a are looking to host wedding receptions at our facility during the warm months. portions of our property are already paved and
have compacted gravel for parking. However, we are looking to host events ONLY DURING WARM MONTHS and during the
rekend (typically not during the week). We are seeking to maintain the integrity of our farm setting by using an existing alfalfa
Id for overflow parking as needed for these events.
6. State your reasons for believing that a variance will not confer on you any spedal privilege that is denied by the zoning code to other
lands, structures or buildings in the some district
Since we already have a number of paved and gravel parking spaces, Using our field spaces as overflow parking will allow us to
provide parking that Is off - street which will Improve safety. Other businesses within the city that require additional parking are
3Ilowed on- street parking if needed.
7. State your reasons for believing that the action(s) you propose to take is/are in keeping with the spirit and the intent of the zoning code.
believe the goal of having the parking ordinance is to provide ample parking for whatever intended business is proposed. As
reviously mentioned, a number of paved and gravel parking spaces currently exist on our property. We have available to us,
nough space for parking on our premises- however we wish to keep these spaces as-is to keep with nature of our outdoor
usinesses. Guests that participate In outdoor / farm weddings fully anticipate the quirky nature of the informal nature of a field
sed for parking.
8. State your reasons for believing that Ina strict enforcement of the provisions of the zoning code would cause undue hardship. Undue
hardship means that the property in question cannot be put to reasonable use If used under the conditions allowed by the zoning
ordinance. Economic considerations alone shall not constitute on undue hardship under the terms of this code as referenced in the state
statutes.
We are a seasonal business with very limited hours. We anticipate our facility would be used primarily on weekends and only during
warm months. Having to pave a large area for parking that would be used for a small percentage of the year would greatly diminish
the look of our property. We purchased our property with the intent of creating beautiful gardens and green spaces. We are
attempting to salvage a historical barn and putting it to a new use, not having the green space parking wouldn't allow us to do this.
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The Future of:
Wedding & Event Center
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To whom it may concern:
We purchased our 14 acre property (which had been previously designated as Century Farm) 12
years ago and annexed it into the city. We had to annex into the city because the nature of our business
(retail) didn't allow for us to remain within the township. Our goal was/ is to keep, maintain and put to
use the buildings that already exist on the property that have historical significance. Since these
buildings are very "agricultural" in nature, we would like to further embrace this unique feature by
hosting events that use the outdoor spaces (the wooded hillside, fields and barns).
I would like to renovate the barn (both levels) and use it for high end weddings and events. In
the future I would like to add a smaller two story building to the North East corner that would have
bathrooms on both levels, a small kitchen (for catering), an additional entrance / exit, access into the
silo, an observatory on the silo top. My intent is to rent the space for a fee and to work with a group of
exclusive vendors for the accompanying services such as valet, food, liquor, music, etc. In addition the
site can be used for photography exclusively for those who rent the facility. I would like to the
incorporate other elements of the farm site such as the other buildings, the pond, the woods etc. to
host tents, outdoor weddings and yard games (horse shoes, bean bags, playground) for attendees of
these events. I would like to keep my current retail and landscape operation at this location.
Initially the event portion of our business will occur on weekends during warm months. As the
business further establishes it is possible the nature of the business could extend to year round use -
however those events would likely be indoors. Most events will occur on Friday and Saturdays during
daylight hours until midnight. We would like to be able to have amplified music present during these
events up to or as close to midnight as possible. Our main goal is to be able to host weddings- we do
not intend on hosting outdoor rock concerts or street dance like events with huge crowds. Most
weddings last longer into the evening than what the current noise ordinance allows (9:30 PM I believe).
The food and beverage services will be provided by an exclusive (only one) reputable local business that
has and maintains the food and liquor licenses required by local and state authorities. We will not allow
private food or beverage (no BYOB). We already have in place an insurance policy, written contract with
a vendor and facility rental contracts that explain these rules in detail. We would also like to replace a
portion of the existing Scenic Specialties pylon sign (keep as a pylon) and replace it with an LED sign to
advertise for all businesses on the premise as opposed to installing multiple signs for the multiple
businesses. This sign would only advertise business that occurs on the property and to announce who
the names of the happy couple.
Regards,
Randy L. Schmitz
Rolling Ridge Properties LLC
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MEMO
City of St. Joseph, PO Box 668, St. Joseph MN 56374
Date: January 17, 2014
To: Randy Schmitz
Scenic Specialties
From: Judy Weyrens
RE: Ridgewood Conference Center
Zoning Classification B2 Highway Business
The operation of a convention /special event center would require issuance of a special use permit under
the provision contained in 52.32 Sub 4 0). Enclosed is an application for consideration of a special use
permit. The narrative for the special use should be detailed and contain the following:
• Layout of the property and where events will be held
• Hours of the center
• Identify outdoor activities such as music and hours for outside activities
• Food and alcohol, how will that be managed
• Signage
It is important to be as detailed as possible to provide the Planning Commission and City Council with a
full picture of activities.
During a recent discussion, we also discussed parking. To create parking areas without impervious
surfacing will require a variance, therefore the application for consideration has been included. Again
be specific as to practical difficulties that will result by strict Ordinance compliance.
As a separate issue, I know that you are working through MN Building Code issues. Since these are two
very separate process, the City can consider and approve the variance and special use and authorize the
application for a building permit. The issuance of the building permit is based on code compliance and
meeting all State required fire and safety matters.
The fee for the variance and special use is $ 400.00 each; however the City will reduce the fee to a total
of $ 400.00 as only one hearing Is being conducted. Since the fee is based on the cost of publication and
notification it is not refundable in the event the matter is denied or the building code issues cannot be
resolved.
I look forward to working with you to see this project come to fruition. Please let me know if you need
further assistance or if I can be of help in anyway.
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