In a recent City Council meeting, a variance request from Cedarwood Estates, managed by Continental Communities, was discussed concerning the placement of manufactured homes on lots 17 and 125 at 18164 Highway 65 Northeast. The request, presented on June 10, 2024, sought to address setback requirements that the proposed homes do not currently meet.

City staff provided a comprehensive overview of the sewage treatment plant's permits and an audit report from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), along with a facility evaluation report from 2017. These documents were essential in assessing the park's compliance since November 2021.

The Council highlighted that the proposed placements do not conform to existing city ordinances, specifically regarding the expansion of nonconforming lots. The variance request must satisfy a three-factor practical difficulties test. The first factor examines whether the landowner can reasonably use the property under current regulations. The Council noted that while placing a new manufactured home in an established park is reasonable, doing so on a nonconforming lot with dimensions larger than previous homes is not.

The second factor considers whether the landowner's challenges stem from unique property circumstances rather than personal choices. In this case, the existing design and dimensions of Cedarwood Estates limit the ability to place new homes without a conditional use permit.

Lastly, the third factor assesses whether the variance would alter the neighborhood's essential character. Given that over 150 manufactured homes in the park do not meet current lot standards, the Council acknowledged that the proposed changes would not significantly disrupt the area's character.

The discussion concluded with a request for further deliberation on the variance, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the implications for both the property owner and the community.