Board of Adjustment Approves Variance Request for Landward Expansion at Bass Lake

In a recent meeting of the St. Croix County Board of Adjustment, held on August 28, 2025, members engaged in a detailed discussion regarding a variance request that ultimately led to unanimous approval. The atmosphere was one of collaboration as board members reviewed the language of the decision, focusing on the implications of the variance for property use and economic considerations.

The conversation began with a proposal to amend the wording in the conclusion of law section of the document. One member suggested removing the phrase "or denial" from the approval statement, emphasizing the board's intent to support the variance request. This change was met with agreement, reflecting a clear consensus on the board's direction. The discussion highlighted the board's commitment to ensuring that the approval process was straightforward and supportive of the applicant's needs.

As the meeting progressed, members also addressed the specifics of the variance, noting that the request was not based solely on economic gain or loss. Instead, it was acknowledged that expanding the property upwards would incur similar costs, reinforcing the rationale for approval. The board members agreed to streamline the language further, focusing on the economic aspects while deemphasizing the potential changes to property use.

In addition to the variance discussion, the board addressed upcoming appointments and potential changes to its structure. Alicia Snyder from the town of Troy was nominated to join the board, which could lead to a fully staffed panel in the near future. This development is seen as a positive step towards enhancing the board's effectiveness.

The meeting also touched on the Lower Saint Croix ordinance, with updates indicating that proposed changes aimed at improving water quality were well-received by the Department of Natural Resources. These changes, particularly regarding stormwater management, are expected to have a beneficial impact on the local environment.

As the meeting concluded, members reflected on the lack of pending applications for the next month, suggesting that the board might not convene again soon. However, the discussions held during this session underscored the board's proactive approach to managing local land use and environmental concerns, leaving attendees with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for future developments.