Planning commission tables Shady’s outdoor-music conditional-use request after neighbors, township raise noise and parking concerns

The Stearns County Planning Commission on Feb. 27 paused consideration of a conditional‑use permit request from Shady’s Property Investment (Pelican Lake LLC) to expand outdoor activities at 18527 County Road 154 in Avon, including a band shell and outdoor music events. Commissioners voted to table the application so the applicant can consult with Avon Township, which has recommended denial and asked for strict noise and event limits.

Why it matters: The request would allow an existing business in a Shoreland area to host outdoor music and events. Neighbors, the township and county staff focused on whether the business can reliably meet Minnesota noise rules and avoid blocking a nearby public boat access with customer parking.

The applicant, Chris Shiffler, told the commission he runs Shady’s operations elsewhere and has used noise monitoring and limits there. “We have had 0 complaints after COVID,” Shiffler said, describing changes the business made at a Cold Spring location. He said Shady’s is asking for about 10–15 outdoor events per year at Pelican Lake, with most events limited to daytime or early evening; he also said he might request…