In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on two significant topics: the potential development of a family home and a proposed zoning change for a cryptocurrency data center.
The township is considering taking over a parcel of land to facilitate the construction of a home for a family, although no formal building plans have been submitted yet. The Ergens family, who have previously faced compliance issues with their buildings, were mentioned in relation to this development. The township is cautious about granting concessions to the family until all outstanding issues are resolved. Notably, the Ergens family had previously received stop work orders due to building without permits and zoning violations. Any future use of their buildings for commercial purposes would require a zoning change and compliance with building codes.
In a separate discussion, Steve Mortenson is seeking a zoning change from agricultural to heavy industrial for a newly created ten-acre lot in Hardscrabble Township. This change is intended to pave the way for the establishment of a cryptocurrency data center. The township has recommended denial of the request, citing that the area should remain open for heavy industrial use according to the comprehensive plan. The proposed data center would require a conditional use permit before any construction could begin, and the approval of the zoning change is a prerequisite for that application.
The meeting concluded with a public hearing segment, allowing for community input on these matters, although no public comments were recorded during this session. The council members unanimously approved the motion regarding the family home development, while the fate of the zoning change for the cryptocurrency center remains uncertain pending further review.