HomeMy WebLinkAbout030-2108-10-000 (2) ST. WOIX COUNTY
SCONSIN
_ - ZONING OFFICE
T NORMAN, ST. CROIX COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER
1101 Carmichael Road
—` Hudson, WI 54016-7710
- (715) 386-4680 • Fax (715) 386-4686
November 11,2003 File Ref: 04-03
Ryan and Rachel Flattum
119964 th Street
Hudson,WI 54016
Re: Board of Adjustment Decision—Variance to Road Setbacks
Dear Applicant:
The St. Croix County Board of Adjustment has reviewed your request for a 58-foot variance from
the 100-foot road right-of-way setback to County Road E and a 75-foot variance from the 100-foot
road right-of-way setback from County Road I and has approved your request. The formal decision
regarding this request is enclosed.
Should you have any questions or concerns,please contact me.
Sincerely
Steve Fisher
Zoning Director
dz
Enclosure
cc: Marie Schmitt,Clerk,Town of St. Joseph,w/enclosure
RECEIVED
MUD GE Post Second Street
Office Box 469
PORTER NOV 0 5 2003 Hudson,Wl 54016-0469
LUNDEEN & Telephone(651 436-5934
ST.CROIX COUNTY (651)436-5934
ZONING OFFICE
Fax 47
SEGUIN9 S.C. www.mpi-s.com
A Professional Service Co oration _ Attorneys Licensed in Wisconsin* and Minnesota+
Robert W.Mudge*
Joel D.Porter*+
Barry C.Lundeen*+
D.Peter Seguin*
November 5, 2003
Lisa A.Wiebusch*+
R.Michael Waterman*+
Rose M.Allen*+
Rod Esslinger
St. Croix County Zoning Office
1101 Carmichael Road
Hudson, WI 54016
Re: Ryan and Rachel Flattum—REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION
Dear Mr. Esslinger:
Ryan and Rachel Flattum hereby request that the Board of Adjustment reconsider the decision
made at the Board of Adjustment hearing held on October 23, 2003. Please place this matter on
the November Board of Adjustment calendar.
This reconsideration request is based, in part, on the fact that improper information was
communicated to the Board of Adjustment by a member of the St. Joseph Township Planning
Commission. The Town Planning Commission and the Town Board both recommended
approval of the Flattums' requests. The Town considered a variety of factors for the special
exception and variance, and in their judgment, concluded that the Flattums requests were
reasonable. At the Board of Adjustment hearing, a member of the Town Planning Commission
vocally opposed Flattums request and invoked the Planning Commission's name as part of his
opposition. We believe this matter needs to be cleared up.
The Flattums have learned that the Planning Commission member may have organized
opposition to the Flattums' request at the October 22 Planning Commission meeting. We are
still investigating this matter but it appears that an Open Meeting Violation may have occurred as
the Town already appfoved the Flattums' request and the Flattums were not a Planning
Commission agenda item for that meeting. We have also learned that the Planning Commission
member who vocally opposed the Flattums at the Board of Adjustment has either resigned or
been removed from the Planning Commission.
We believe that evidence concerning the precise nature and extent of the Town of St. Joseph's
recommendation is necessary. Town approval is a major factor in zoning decisions such as this
case. We can't avoid believing that the Planning Commission member's statements affected the
Board's decision in this matter.
Rod Esslin g er
November S,2003
Page 2
The Flattums would also present evidence to show that information presented by some of the
citizens opponents were false. The Flattums have also new information concerning the operation
of the proposed business as well as evidence concerning the concerns raised by the Board at the
October 23 meeting.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
MUDGE,PORTER, LUNDEE & SEGUIN, S.C.
R. Michael Waterman
michael watermanL&mpl-s.com
After-hours voice mail ext. 121
RMW:kr
cc: Ryan and Rachel Flattum
D W"EIVED
TOWN O�
NOV 1 3 2003 1337 County Road V
ST.CROIX COUNTY Hudson.WI 54016-6712
ST. T O S E P H ZONING OFFICE 715/549-6235
FAX 715/549-6249
ST. CROIX COUNTY. WISCONSIN townsti @isd.net
November 10, 2003
Steve Fisher, Zoning Administrator
St. Croix County Courthouse
1101 Carmichael Road
Hudson, WI 54016
RE: Ryan and Rachel Flattum Special Exception and Variance
To Whom It May Concern:
Dae to the testimony by a Town of St. Joseph Plan Commission member before the Board of Adjustment
on October 23, 2003,the Town of St.Joseph Town Board would like to reaffirm its position
recommending approval of the above special exception and variance applications.
The Town of St. Joseph followed the normal process for this Special Exception and Variance through the
Plan Commission and Town Board. The Plan Commission recommended approval of the applications
subject to four contingencies in addition to those listed on the county's technical review. The Town Board
motions recommending approval of the applications were approved unanimously. The Board met on
November 6, 2003 and again agreed unanimously to have this letter sent to you reaffirming our position
recommending approval of the above applications.
The October 6, 2003,Town Board motions recommending approval of the special exception and variance
applications are as follows:
--A motion that the Town of St. Joseph has no opposition to the County's approval of the variance to the
setbacks (from Class C highways) of Mr. Fiattum's building on County Road I and County Road E
(Howland/Barsness) carried
--A motion that the Town of St. Joseph recommend to the County approval of the Special Exception for a
home based business for the Flattum's with the listed special exception considerations provided by the
County and the four recommendations for restrictions provided by our Plan Commission:
(1) contingent that they comply with the recommendations of the County in their technical review
dated September 25, 2003 including proper use and disposal of contaminants and hazardous waste
(2) That vehicles not be located outside longer than 72 hours
(3) That noise levels be contained
(4) That gray water be contained and dumped properly
be added to the list of special exception conditions (Barsness/Marty) carried
--A motion for a recommendation to St. Croix County for a County Variance for setback from a
residence for a major home occupation for Ryan and Rachel Flattum (Marty/Howland)carried
If you have any questions regarding this matter, feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Theresa Johnson
Town Chairperso ,Town of St. Joseph
• ST. CROIX COUNTY
WISCONSIN
�. ZONING OFFICE
..... ST. CROIX COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER
1101 Carmichael Road
Hudson, WI 54016-7710
(715) 386-4680• Fax (715) 386-4686
November 11,2003 File Ref: -18-03
Ryan and Rachel Flattum
119964 th Street
Hudson,WI 54016
Re: Board of Adjustment Decision :Variance and Special Exception Request for Home
Occupation
Dear Applicant:
The St. Croix County Board of Adjustment has reviewed your requests for a 180-foot variance from
the 500-foot setback requirement from any pre-existing neighboring residence for a major home
occupation, and for a special exception permit to operate a major home occupation on the property,
and has denied both of these requests. The formal decision is enclosed.
Should you have any questions or concerns,please contact me.
j incer y,
i
Steve Fisher
Zoning Director
dz
Enclosure
cc: Marie Schmitt, Clerk,Town of St. Joseph, .w/enclosure
Mike Waterman,w/enclosure
FINDINGS,CONCLUSIONS,AND DECISION
OF THE ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
ST. CROIX COUNTY,WISCONSIN
Case: 19-03
Complete Application Received: June 13,2003
Hearing Notice Publication: Weeks of September 8 and 15, 2003
Hearing Date: September 25,2003 (Tabled)
Decision Date: October 23,2003
FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW
Having heard all the testimony,considered the entire record herein, and reviewed the site,the Board
finds the following facts:
1. The applicants are Ryan and Rachel Flattum, whose address is 1199 64`h Street, Hudson,
Wl 54016.
2. The property is located in the NE 1/4 of the NW '/4, Section 3, T29N-R19W, Town of St.
Joseph.
3. An application was made for a 180-foot variance from the 500-foot setback requirement
from any pre-existing neighboring residence for a major home occupation.
4. An application was made for a special exception permit to allow a major home
occupation for an automotive repair business to be operated from the pole shed on the
property.
5. The Board of Adjustment finds that the request for the 180-foot variance does not
conform with the requirements granted under Section 17.15(6)(s) and 17.155 of the St.
Croix County Zoning Ordinance.
6. The Board finds that by denying the variance request for the setback requirement from any
pre-existing neighboring residence for a major home occupation, the Board cannot grant the
special exception request for the major home occupation pursuant to Section 17.155.
7. The Board finds that it is important to the neighborhood that the 500-foot requirement be
met for this type of business. An automotive repair business would not be compatible,
and is out of character, with the surrounding land uses. The property is located in the
Buck Hill subdivision.
8. The Board finds that if this variance was granted, and the major home occupation
permitted, it would be contrary to the public interest. The Willow River is in close
proximity to this property. Further, the property abuts land that is owned by the
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and is a State Park.
9. The Board finds that there are environmental concerns due to wastewater run off from the
business not being adequately disposed of
10. There was opposition by residents of the Town of St. Joseph.
11. The Board finds that the spirit and intent of the ordinance would not be met by granting this
variance. The applicant did not demonstrate that a hardship would exist in the absence of a
variance, as the applicant has reasonable use of the property. The Board further finds that
the spirit and intent of the ordinance would not be met by granting the special exception
request for a major home occupation, due to the fact that the variance needed to be
approved to allow the business to exist at this location.
DECISION
On the basis of the above Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and the record herein, the Board
denied the 180-foot variance to the 500-foot setback requirement from any pre-existing neighboring
residence for a major home occupation, and therefore, the special exception request for a major
home occupation cannot be granted. The variance and special exception request are denied.
The following vote was taken to deny both requests: Krueger, yes; Peterson, yes; Marzolf, yes;
Golz, yes; Chairperson Speer, yes. Motion carved.
APPEAL RIGHTS
Any person aggrieved by this decision may file an appeal in St. Croix County circuit court within
30 days after the filing date shown below, pursuant to sec. 59.694(10), Wisconsin Statutes. St.
Croix County assumes no responsibility for action taken in reliance on this decision prior to the
expiration of the appeal period. St. Croix County does not certify that the identity of all persons
legally entitled to notice of the Board of Adjustment proceedings, which resulted in this decision,
was provided to the County.
If an appeal is taken of this decision, it is the responsibility of the appellant to submit at his/her
expense a transcript of the Board of Adjustment proceedings to the circuit court, which is available
from Northwestern Court Reporters, Hudson, Wisconsin. It is the responsibility of the Board of
Adjustment to submit its record(file)of this matter to the circuit court.
ZONING BOARD OF AD U ISTMENT
Signed
C ai
Date: 11/11/03 Attest
Date: 11/11/03 Zoning Director
2
FINDINGS,CONCLUSIONS,AND DECISION
OF THE ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
ST. CROIX COUNTY,WISCONSIN
Case: 19-03
Complete Application Received: September 25,2003
Hearing Notice Publication: Weeks of September 8 and 15,2003
Hearing Date: September 25, 2003
FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW
Having heard all the testimony,considered the entire record herein, and reviewed the site,the Board
finds the following facts:
1. The applicants are Ryan and Rachel Flattum, whose address is 1199 64th Street, Hudson,
WI 54016.
2. The property is located in the NE t/4 of the NW '/4, Section 3, T29N-R19W, Town of St.
Joseph.
3. An application was made for a 58-foot variance from the 100-foot road right-of-way
setback to County Road E and a 75-foot variance from the 100-foot road right-of-way
setback from County Road I to allow an existing pole shed to remain in its current
location.
4. The Board of Adjustment finds that the request for variances conforms to the requirements
granted under Section 17.64(1)(c)2 of the St. Croix County Zoning Ordinance.
5. The Board finds that the applicant acted in good faith by constructing the pole shed. The
building inspector for the town viewed the property and location of the building prior to the
building permit being issued by the Town of St. Joseph. The applicant believed he was in
compliance with the rules before construction began.
6. The layout of the property is unique, due to the intersection of two county roads on this
property. The Board believes that the shed has been placed in a good location, as it is
surrounded by mature trees and steep slopes, screening it from neighboring properties and
roads.
7. The Town of St. Joseph Planning Commission has approved the request.
8. There was no opposition to the request.
9. The St. Croix County Highway Department reviewed the plans and the site, and had no
concerns with the request.
10. The Board finds that the request is not contrary to the public interest.
11. The Board finds that spirit and intent of the ordinance would be met by granting this
variance.
DECISION
On the basis of the above Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and the record herein, the Board
approved the applicants' request for a 58-foot variance from the 100-foot road right-of-way
setback to County Road E and a 75-foot variance from the 100-foot road right-of-way setback
from County Road I to allow an existing pole shed to remain in its current location.
The following vote was taken to approve: Marzolf, yes; Peterson, yes; Golz, yes; Chairperson
Speer, yes. Motion carried.
APPEAL RIGHTS
Any person aggrieved by this decision may file an appeal in St. Croix County circuit court within
30 days after the filing date shown below, pursuant to sec. 59.694(10), Wisconsin Statutes. St.
Croix County assumes no responsibility for action taken in reliance on this decision prior to the
expiration of the appeal period. St. Croix County does not certify that the identity of all persons
legally entitled to notice of the Board of Adjustment proceedings, which resulted in this decision,
was provided to the County.
If an appeal is taken of this decision, it is the responsibility of the appellant to submit at his/her
expense a transcript of the Board of Adjustment proceedings to the circuit court, which is available
from Northwestern Court Reporters, Hudson, Wisconsin. It is the responsibility of the Board of
Adjustment to submit its record(file) of this matter to the circuit court.
ZONIN OARD OF AD JU TMENT
Signed
Chairp on
Date: 11/11/03 Attest
Date: 11/11/03 Zoning Director
2
OFFICIAL
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS MEETING AND HEARING MINUTES
September 25, 2003
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Julie Speer at 8:30 a.m. A roll call was
made. Julie Speer,Nick Golz ,Rich Peterson and Richard (Buzz) Marzolf were present.
Stan Krueger was absent and excused. Staff included: Steve Fisher, Zoning Director,
Rod Eslin er Zoning Specialist, D eb Zimmermann Administrative Assistant, Greg
Timmerman, Corporation Counsel. Chairperson Speer believes this to be a properly
noticed meeting.
Motion was made by Golz, seconded by Marzolf to adopt the agenda. Motion carried.
The Board set the next meeting date as October 23, 2003 and will be held in the County
Board Room, at the Government Center. The starting time will be 8:30 a.m. The Board
set the following dates for upcomin§meetings: November 20th and December 18th
These dates are changed from the 4t Thursday of the month, due to the holidays.
MINUTES
Motion by Peterson, seconded by Speer to adopt the minutes from the August 28, 2003.
Motion carried.
CORPORATION COUNSEL REPORT/UPDATE ON VIOLATIONS AND
LITIGATION
Town of Warren/Phantom Fireworks: The Board was given a copy of the Court's
decision in the Phantom Fireworks case in the Town of Warren. Greg Timmerman,
Corporation Counsel, went over the Court's decision with the Board and explained his
position on this decision. The Circuit Court affirmed the Board's decision in this matter,
stating that the Board acted properly in determining that the Town of Warren had granted
approval for the Phantom Fireworks request. The Court then remanded the case back to
the Board for further findings to clarify if the Board considered the concept approval
from the Town of Warren to be the final approval.
Gary Bakke,being duly sworn, is the attorney representing the Town of Warren in this
matter. He explained that the Town of Warren had given concept approval of this request,
with the idea that the applicant would come back before the town to obtain final approval
based on certain conditions. The Board then granted the special exception permit to
Phantom Fireworks, and the Town of Warren filed a Writ of Certiorari with the Circuit
Court. Bakke would like to see the Town and County work together on this, and would
like to present the concept approval from the Town.
Tom Jacobson,being duly sworn, is the attorney representing Phantom Fireworks. He
gave the Board background on this request, stating that his client had received approval
from the town and went forward to the Board of Adjustments. The County then noticed
the Town of the first hearing that was held,where the Board tabled the decision. The
Town was then notified of the second hearing. The Town failed to show up for either
hearing,nor did they send any further correspondence stating an objection. The Board's
decision listed 20 conditions in their approval of the Phantom Fireworks request, and all
of the conditions listed by the Town of Warren are incorporated in the Board's decision.
His client bought the property for this business based on the approval of the Board and
were ready to proceed. Phantom Fireworks then went back to the Town for final
approval, on what they thought was approval for grading, and the town raised new
objections. Jacobson stated that the issue today is to clear up a technical issue, not to re-
decide the issue. The question is how did the Board interpret the town's concept
approval.
Timmerman told the Board that they did everything properly in this proceeding and the
Court upheld their decision. Timmerman recommends that the Board affirm their
decision that the town's approval was final approval for the request.
Motion by Speer, seconded by Golz to stand by their original decision that the concept
approval given by the Town of Warren was considered the final approval.
The following vote was taken to uphold the original decision as stated above: Peterson,
yes; Golz, yes; Speer, yes. Motion carried. Marzolf excused himself from the vote, as he
was not on the Board of Adjustment at the time of the original decision.
Karl Neumeier Case: Timmerman discussed this legal case with the Board. The Board
denied the Neumeier variance request as the Board cannot grant a variance in the St.
Croix Riverway District over the objection of the DNR. Neumeier appealed the decision
to Circuit Court, and the court ruled that, in fact, the Board cannot grant a variance over
the objection of the DNR, and that the"no reasonable use" standard applies when making
decisions on variances.
Timmerman went onto explain that the Supreme Court is going to be hearing a case on
variance standards, the Ziervogal case, and this may change the criteria for granting
variances in Wisconsin. As for now,the Board must grant variances based on the"no
reasonable use"standards, and cannot grant approval for a variance in the St. Croix
Riverway District over the objection of the DNR.
Mike Waterman, attorney for Neumeier,was sworn in. He explained that no action will
be taken by his client until a decision is made in the Supreme Court case now pending.
He further added that the Department of Natural Resource's NR 118 is being re-written,
and they are waiting to see what changes will be made.
Timmerman added that he agrees no further action should be taken, as the Supreme Court
decision may affect the way that the DNR would have to look at different criteria for
granting variances.
Voicestream Cell Tower Case: Fisher informed the Board that the Seventh Circuit
Supreme Court of Wisconsin has upheld the decision in this case, in favor of the County,
denying the cell tower application visible from the St. Croix River.
The Board recessed from 9:15 a.m. to 9:25 a.m.
NEW BUSINESS
Chairperson Speer welcomed everyone in attendance and gave a brief overview of how
the Board of Adjustment meeting is conducted. Chairperson Speer stated that the public
hearing notice was published correctly and was read into the record as follows:
2
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The St. Croix County Board of Adjustment has scheduled a public hearing for Thursday,
September 25, 2003 at 8:30 a.m. at the Government Center, 1101 Carmichael Road,
Hudson, Wisconsin, to consider the following appeals to the St. Croix County Zoning
Ordinance. The Board will view each site in question, after which the Board will deliberate
and vote on the appeals.
1. ARTICLE: Special Exception request for filling and grading of more than
2,000 square feet on slopes of less than 12% in a Shoreland District
pursuant to Section 17.29(2)(c)3. The request is for a special
exception permit to allow the property owner to construct a new
home on the property located on the Apple River.
APELLANT: Brian J. Rafferty
LOCATION: The SE '/4-NE '/4, Section 29,T31N-R18W, Town of Star Prairie
ADDRESS: Lot 3 of Certified Survey Map,Vol. 15,page 4206,Doc.No.661981,
Somerset,WI
2. ARTICLE: Special Exception request for a permit to construct a mechanical lift
and stairway on the property to allow access to the St. Croix River
pursuant to Section 17.36(6)(a)4.
APELLANT: Stanley E.Pond,Jr.,owner/Sharon O'Flannigan, agent
LOCATION: Part of Government Lot"1"of Section 34, T30N-R20W,Town of
St. Joseph
ADDRESS: 1282 Highway 35,Hudson, WI 54016
3. ARTICLE: Request for an amendment to the original Special Exception permit
dated Mayl,2000 to allow additional horses on the property.
APELLANT: Mark Sylla
LOCATION: Part of the SW 1/4 of the NW'/4, the SE '/4 of the NW
1/4, the NE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 and the NW 1/4 of the SE 1/4 all in Section
21,T28N-"R19W,Town of Troy
ADDRESS: 526 Rolling Meadow Drive, River Falls, WI 54022
4. ARTICLE: 1) Variance request to the Class "C" Highway requirements
pursuant to Section 17.64(1)(c)2. The request is for a 58-foot
variance from the 100-foot road right-of-way setback to County
Road E and a 75-foot variance from the 100-foot road right-of-way
setback from County Road I to allow an existing pole building to
remain in its current location.
2) Variance request for a 180-foot variance to the 500-foot setback
requirements from any pre-existing neighboring residence for a
major home occupation pursuant to Section 17.155(6)(d)2.
3) Special Exception request for a major home occupation pursuant
to Section 17.15(6)(s) and Section 17.155. Request is to operate an
automotive repair business out of an accessory structure on the
property.
APELLANT: Ryan and Rachel Flattum
LOCATION: The NE 1/4-NW 1/4, Section 3,T29N-R19W,Town of St. Joseph
3
th •
ADDRESS: 1199 64 Street,Hudson, WI 54016
All interested p e r
sons are invited to attend said hearing and be heard. Additional
information may be obtained from the office of the St. Croix County Zoning Director,
Hudson, Wisconsin at(715) 386-4680.
Julie Speer,Chairperson
St.Croix County Board of Adjustment
Article One: Brian Rafferty
Eslinger explained that this request is for a permit for filling and grading in the shoreland
area of the Apple River to construct a residence and a driveway
The following exhibits were introduced:
Exhibit 1: Staff report
Exhibit 2: Application
Exhibit 3: Location map
Exhibit 4: LWCD letter dated September 17, 2003
Eslinger went over the staff report with the Board, stating that the slopes are 12% or less.
The applicant has hired JEO Consulting to design the plans for the grading and erosion
control measures. The Land and Water Conservation Department has reviewed the plans,
and Eslinger read the letter dated September 17, 2003 (Exhibit 4) into the record. There
were no comments received from DNR. JEO is currently working with the DNR to see if
a Chapter 30 permit is needed. The Town of Star Prairie supports the request, and
Eslinger read the letter from the Town into the record.
Jill Zalar, being duly sworn, is with JEO Consulting and representing Rafferty. She went
over the plans for the project. She went over the plans for the project, pointing out that
there is only about one acre to build on, due to the floodplain area. She reiterated that
they are working with the DNR and believe they have addressed the comments made by
the LWCD.
There were no objections to the request. The Board will view the site.
Article Two: Stanley Pond
Eslinger introduced this request for a permit to construct a mechanical lift and stairway in
the St. Croix Riverway District.
The following exhibits were introduced:
Exhibit 1: Staff report
Exhibit 2: Application with narrative
Exhibit 3: Photos
Eslinger went over the staff report with the Board. The LWCD has reviewed the request
and stated no objections in a letter dated September 17, 2003. There is no detailed
erosion control plan needed, as the disturbance of land will be very minimal. The Town
of St. Joseph has recommended approval of the request. The DNR was sent a copy of the
request on August 27`h, and as of today,the staff has not received a response.
4
Stanley Pond, being duly sworn, is the owner of the property. He explained that the tram
will be about 360-feet long, and the stairway will be built to access the river from the lift.
The stairway will be approximately 25-feet in length. Pond stated that they plan to take
down just one tree in order to construct the lift and stairway.
There were no objections to the request. The Board will view the site.
Article Three: Mark Sylla
Eslinger explained that this request is for an amendment to an original special exception
permit dated May 1, 2000, specifically Condition number one. The permit was granted
for a riding and boarding stable. Eslinger went over the information given to the Board,
telling the Board that the applicant is requesting to amend condition number one to allow
u to 50 horses on the property, rather than be limited to 20 as the condition now states.
P p p Y, ,
The applicant has sufficient acreage available for the animal waste. The LWCD has
reviewed and approved of the request, confirming that there is plenty of acreage to
accommodate the increase to 50 horses.
The following exhibits were introduced:
Exhibit 1: Staff Report
Exhibit 2: Application
Exhibit 3: BOA Decision dated May 1, 2000
Exhibit 4: Location Map
Eslinger further explained that the applicant plans to add on an 80-foot by 80-foot
addition to the existing stable to house the horses. It was noted that the drawings for this
addition need to be scaled back 6-feet to meet the 100-foot setback requirement from
property lines for buildings housing livestock.
Matt Hieb, being duly sworn, is with ACA Engineering and representing the applicant.
He told the Board that the plans have already been revised to meet the 100-foot setback
requirement, as the Town of Troy requires a 150-foot setback. He handed out a copy of
the revised plans. Hieb told the Board that the Town of Troy has recommended approval
of the request, and a letter will be sent to the County stating this.
There were not objections to the request. The Board will view the site.
Article Four: Ryan and Rachel Flattum
Eslinger presented this request to the Board, stating that there are three setback variances
and one special exception request for a major home occupation. In going over the staff
report, Eslinger pointed out that the structure was built after receiving a building permit
from the Town of St. Joseph. This property is unique, as it is located where two county
roads intersect, and therefore, needs to meet the 100-foot setback from each road. The
applicant is requesting a 58-foot variance from the 100-foot road right-of-way setback
from County Road E and a 75-foot variance from the 100-foot road right-of-way setback
from County Road I to allow the existing pole shed to remain in its current location.
Eslinger further added that the applicant is also requesting a 180-foot variance to the 500-
foot setback requirement from any pre-existing neighboring residence for a major home
occupation. The fourth request is for a special exception permit for major home
5
occupation for an automotive repair business to be operated from the structure on the
property.
The following exhibits were introduced:
Exhibit 1: Staff report
Exhibit 2: Application for variance
Eslinger went over the site plan with the Board, pointing out the setbacks. The Highway
Department has reviewed the plans and had no concerns with the request. The Town of
St. Joseph was sent a copy of the application on August 27, 2003, and has not responded.
Eslinger stated that the St. Croix County Emergency Government should be notified of
any hazardous or flammable materials stored on site.
Mike Waterman, being previously sworn, is the attorney for Flattums. Ryan Flattum was
sworn in. Waterman went over the survey map with the Board, pointing out that the
location of the shed is in the low spot on the land. If the shop had to be moved, it would
be located on a hill and trees would have to be removed. Before Flattum built the pole
shed, the Town of St. Joseph building inspector came out to view the property before
issuing the building permit, and the applicant walked the property with the inspector, as
well as having the property flagged where the proposed building was to be placed. The
building inspector then issued the building permit to the applicant. Waterman stated that
it is impossible to meet the 500-foot setback to the neighboring property line from
anywhere on the property. Due to the topography and the trees, the shed cannot be seen
from any neighboring houses. Waterman stated that the applicant received approval from
the Town of St. Joseph Planning Commission last night, and they will be going to the
Town Board at their next meeting in October.
Ryan Flattum addressed the Board, reiterating that the Town building inspector came out
and walked the property with the applicant. The applicant had put stakes in the ground
and roped off the area for the pole shed, even showing the exact size that the shed would
be. When the building was being constructed, the applicant had not intended to house a
business, but "fell into a business deal', and decided to start the automotive business.
This is an appointment only business, no advertising,just "word of mouth". The business
is not full time, as Flattum will be home taking care of their children while his wife works
outside of the home. The hours of operation would be a few days a week from 8:00 a.m.
to 3:00 or 4:00 p.m. The Town agreed to allow two cars outside of the shed for up to 72
hours at a time. This business is only for minor motor repair, no body work is involved.
Waterman added that he believes that the applicant meets the no reasonable use standard,
as there is no where on the property that this structure can meet the 500-foot setback. The
Dahlberg property is the only neighboring residence, and they have given their support in
this matter. If the Board chooses to deny this request, Waterman would like the request
reconsidered after the decision on the upcoming Supreme Court case .
There were no objections to the request. The Board will view the site.
DECISIONS:
Brian Rafferty
6
Motion by Golz, seconded by Speer to approve the request for a permit for filling and
grading in the shoreland area of the Apple River to construct a driveway and a residence
based on the following findings:
1. The plans have been designed by a professionally licensed engineer.
2. The plans for the project are very complete, well done, and taking measures to
reduce impacts to the Apple River.
3. The Land and Water Conservation Department comments have been addressed.
4. The Town of Star Prairie supports the request.
5. There were no objections to the request.
6. The Board finds that the request is not contrary to the public interest.
7. The Board finds that the spirit and intent of the ordinance would be met by
granting this request
With the following conditions:
1. This permit allows the applicant to disturb more than 2,000 square feet on slopes
on less than 12%in the shoreland area of the Apple River to construct a driveway
and house. Project shall be completed pursuant to plans approved by the Board.
2. A financial guarantee equal to 120%of approved construction estimates must be
submitted in favor of St. Croix County, to be held by the Zoning Office for the
erosion control and grading activities (to ensure proper construction). The initial
financial guarantee period may be for a minimum of one year and shall
automatically renew until the county releases any or all of the financial guarantee.
• Written estimates must be submitted to the Zoning office for review and
approval.
• No construction, including earth moving, shall take place prior to approval
of the financial guarantees
• The applicant shall have the engineer submit proof that the plans were
installed as approved. This document can be submitted in the form of an
as-built or other document that county staff can review to ensure the plans
were installed in accordance with the original design.
• Upon substantial completion of all required improvements, the applicant
shall notify the County Zoning Administrator of the completion of the
improvements in writing. The County Zoning Administrator, in
consultation with appropriate experts, shall inspect the improvements.
• The County may retain a portion of the guarantee, for a period not to
exceed two years after final acceptance of an improvement to ensure the
project has been stabilized,this amount is not to exceed 15%of the cost of
the improvement(erosion control and grading activities).
3. The applicant must record a storm water management plan and a drainage
easement for the permanent storm water control structures against the deed for the
property. The applicant is responsible to provide a recorded copy to the Zoning
Office within 60 days of the completion of the project. The intent is to make the
current and future owners aware of the responsibilities associated with the storm
water management plan as well as the limitations(filling, grading, etc.)the
landowner incurs as a result of the plan.
4. Prior to beginning any work, the applicant must schedule an on-site pre-
construction meeting that includes the landowner, contractor, engineer, architect,
and St. Croix County Zoning and LWCD staff members. Items to be discussed
7
include but are not limited to coordinating installation of BMP's, construction
timelines, roles and responsibilities of owner, engineer, architect, contractor, etc.
5. The applicant shall provide the Zoning Office with the name and phone number
of the person responsible for installing and maintaining the erosion control plan.
6. The applicant shall obtain all necessary approvals from the Wisconsin Department
of Natural Resources.
7. The applicant must secure a township building permit before commencing
construction.
8. The Zoning office is to be notified at the start and the finish of the project.
9. Any minor change or addition to the project, including but not limited to design of
the project, shall require review and approval by the Zoning Administrator and
the Land and Water Conservation Department prior to making the change or
addition. Any major change or addition to the originally approved plan will have
to go through the special exception approval process.
10. The applicant shall have one(1)year from the issuance of the special exception
permit to commence construction. Failure to do so shall result in revocation of
the special exception permit. If the special exception permit expires before
construction commences,the applicant will be required to secure a new special
exception permit before starting or completing construction on the project.
11. These conditions may be amended or additional conditions may be added if
unanticipated conditions arise that would affect the health and/or safety of citizens
or degrade the natural resources of St. Croix County. Conditions will not be
amended or added without notice to the applicant and an opportunity for a
hearing.
12. Accepting this decision means that the applicant has read, understands, and agrees
to all conditions of this decision.
The following vote was taken to approve: Marzolf, yes; Golz, yes; Peterson, yes;
Chairperson Speer,yes. Motion carried.
i
Article Two: Stanley Pond
Motion by Peterson, seconded by Golz to approve the request for a special exception
permit for a mechanical lift and stairway in the St. Croix Riverway District based on the
following findings:
1. The Town of St. Joseph has recommended approval of the request.
2. There was no opposition to the request.
3. The plans for the project have been designed by a professional company and will
be professionally installed.
4. The Land and Water Conservation Department has approved of the request.
5. The Board finds that this is a common use on the St. Croix River and is needed to
access the river on the property.
6. The Board finds that the request is not contrary to the public interest.
7. The Board finds that the spirit and intent of the ordinance would be met by
granting this request
With the following conditions:
1. The applicant shall install the lift and stairway as designed by the licensed
engineer.
8
2. The applicant shall have the engineer submit proof that the plans were installed as
approved. This document can be submitted in the form of an as-built or other
document that county staff can review to ensure the plans were installed in
accordance with the original design.
3. The applicant shall submit photos of the lift and stairway upon the completion of
the project to the Zoning Office.
4. The applicant shall comply with the provisions of 17.36 (5)(i) lifts and 17.36 (5)
0)•
5. No reflective glass to be on the lift.
6. The applicant shall submit an erosion control plan(plan to be approved by the
zoning office)before commencing construction.
7. The applicant shall submit a planting plan depicting how the site will be re-
established with vegetation.
8. Applicant to have the lift installed by professional contractors familiar with this
type of installation. Applicant to submit as-built certification demonstrating that
the lift was constructed as proposed.
9. The applicant is to submit a construction schedule to the Zoning Office 3 days
prior to commencing this project.
10. Comply with all DNR requirements and obtain any permits necessary.
11. The applicant shall have one(1)year from the issuance of the Special Exception
permit to commence construction. If the Special Exception permit expires,the
applicant will be required to secure a new Special Exception permit before the
mechanical lift can be constructed.
12. Any minor change(or addition) in expansion of the project, shall require review
and approval by the Zoning Director. Any major change and/or addition to the
originally approved plan will go through the special exception approval process,
where applicable, as stated in the ordinance.
13. These conditions may be amended or additional conditions may be added if
unanticipated conditions arise that would affect the health and/or safety of citizens
or degrade the natural resources of St. Croix County. Conditions will not be
amended or added without notice to the applicant and an opportunity for a
hearing.
14. Accepting this decision means that the applicant has read, understands, and agrees
to all conditions of this decision.
The following vote was taken to approve: Marzolf, yes; Golz, yes; Peterson, yes;
Chairperson Speer,yes. Motion carried.
Article Three: Mark Sylla
Motion by Speer, seconded by Golz to approve the request to amend Condition number
one of the special exception permit dated May 1, 2000. The approval now allows the
applicant to have up to 50 horses on the property.
The following vote was taken to approve: Peterson, yes; Marzolf, yes; Golz, yes;
Chairperson Speer,yes. Motion carried.
Article Four: Ryan and Rachel Flattum
Motion by Golz, seconded by Peterson to approve the request for a 58-foot variance from
the 100-foot road right-of-way setback to County Road E and a 75-foot variance from the
100-foot road right-of-way setback from County Road I to allow an existing pole shed to
9
remain in its current location in the Ag/Residential District based on the following
findings:
1. The Board finds that the applicant acted in good faith by constructing the pole
shed. The building inspector for the town viewed the property and location of the
building prior to the building permit being issued by the Town of St. Joseph. The
applicant believed he was in compliance with the rules before construction began.
2. The layout of the property is unique, due to the intersection of two county roads
on this property. The Board believes that the shed has been placed in a good
location, as it is surrounded by mature trees and steep slopes, screening it from
neighboring properties and roads.
3. The Town of St. Joseph Planning Commission has approved of the request.
4. There was no opposition to the request.
5. The St. Croix County Highway Department reviewed the plans and the site, and
had no concerns with the request.
6. The Board finds that the request is not contrary to the public interest.
7. The Board finds that the spirit and intent of the ordinance would be met by
granting this request
The following vote was taken to approve: Marzolf, yes; Peterson, yes; Golz, yes;
Chairperson Speer, yes. Motion carried.
Motion by Speer, seconded by Peterson to table the request for a 180-foot variance to the
500-foot setback requirements from any pre-existing neighboring residence for a major
home occupation and for a special exception permit to operate a major home occupation
for an automotive repair business. The applicant is to obtain a recommendation from the
St. Joseph Town Board on these two requests. The Board will make a decision after that
recommendation is received.
I
The following vote was taken to table the request: Golz, yes; Marzolf, yes; Peterson, yes;
Chairperson Speer, yes. Motion carried.
The hearing was declared adjourned at 2:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted:
( ��' i1-ear✓
hard Peterson, Secretary - e ie-Zint7i,Recording Secretary
10
0
TOWN o F 1 County V
Hudson,WI 54016-616-6 712
ST. T O S E P H 715/549-62
FAX 715/549-6249 49
ST. CROIX COUNTY. WISCONSIN townstj®isd.nct
October 17, 2003 "� W, r «7
Steve Fisher, Zoning Administrator
St Croix County Courthouse t
1101 Carmichael Road
Hudson,WI 54016
Re: Flattum
To Whom It May Concern:
The following are excerpts of the minutes of the Town Board meeting held October 2, 2003:
• A motion that the Town of St Joseph has no opposition to the County's approval of the variance
to the setbacks[from Class C highways]of Mr Flattum's building on County Road I &County
Road E (Howland/Barsness)carried.
• A motion that the Town of St Joseph recommend to the County approval of the Special
Exception for a home business for the Flattum's with the listed special exception considerations
provided by the County and the four recommendations for restrictions provided by our Plan
Commission [1)contingent that they comply with the recommendations of the County in their
technical review dated September 25, 2003 including the proper use and disposal of
contaminants and hazardous waste, 2)that vehicles not be located outside longer than 72 hours,
3)that noise levels would be contained, 4)that gray water be contained and dumped properly] be
added to the list of special exception conditions, (Barsness/Marty)carried.
A motion (Marty/Howland)for a recommendation to St Croix County for a County Variance
setback from residence for major home occupation for Ryan& Rachel Flattum carried.
Respec ully submitted,
I Ma a Schmit
To n Clerk