5.1. PC Meeting Handout 10-22-2024Date: October 22, 2024
To: City of Elk River Planning Commission
and Chris Leeseburg, City of Elk River Senior Planner
Dear Planning Commission and Mr. Leeseburg,
Upon receiving the Notice of Action from the City of Elk River for the zoning change of the
"Highway Commercial (C3) to Single Family Residential (R1-c): North of Highway 10 at the Gary
Street alignment: This area is designated for Traditional Single -Family Residential but is
currently zoned Highway Commercial (C3). Staff recommends rezoning it to Single Family
Residential (R1-c), matching the zoning of the nearby Cove on Lake Orono development.", I
have reviewed the proposed action.
The Notice of Action states the purpose is to "The current zoning of several properties does
not align with their designated land uses, and to ensure consistency with the approved plan,
rezoning is recommended." However, the City Council on July 1 approved the Action:
designating parcel: 75-00132-2125 as an open space/undeveloped park and named "Scout
Island Park." The city's website's land use map inaccurately shows the same area as a single-
family residence versus the correct land use of park/open space.
Therefore, the purpose of the zoning change is incorrect since the parcel's land use is park/
open space as of July 1, 2024. The requested action is invalid and should be removed.
I formally request reasonable notice in writing of any proposed changes to parcel
75-00132-2125 since it is within 500 feet of my property. This includes all zoning, selling,
purchasing, dividing, land use designation, development, and shoreline disturbances.
I suggest that the City of Elk River request recommendations from these invested entities
before any future changes in zoning, land use, and ownership to parcel: 75-00132-2125:
• Orono Lake Improvement District
• Elk River Parks and Recreation Commission
• Sherburne Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors
• County of Sherburne Parks & Trails Committee
• Friends of the William H. Houlton Conservation Area (wildlife corridor)
In addition, Endangered Species, Environmental Assessment, Wetland Conservation Act,
FEMA, DNR, public waters reviews would be required before changes to this parcel are
considered. Bald Eagles and Blanding's Turtles have been observed in the vicinity and the land
is surrounded by Orono Lake with the Elk River flow nagivating around the peninsula.
Orono Lake and the Elk River have a long history, cultural value, and deep environmental
impact on the [and, water, wildlife, culture, visitors, citizens, and shoreline landowners. Great
investments and sacrifices have been made by those who have touched and influenced Orono
Lake, Elk River, and the Mississippi River. Care and communication should be taken whenever
actions are considered. Reaching out to the community beyond the planning commission
meetings to receive input and support is vital to appreciating the past and considering the
future.
Sincerely,
Michelle Binsfeld
13230 Island View Dr NW
Elk River, MN 55330
binsfeldshelly@gmail.com