Council grants conditional use permit for Brothers Sand and Gravel with condition to protect neighboring wells

The Grand Island City Council approved a conditional use permit for Brothers Sand and Gravel Inc. at its April 8 meeting with an additional condition intended to protect nearby private wells.

Staff noted the item had been before the council two weeks earlier and that neighbors had raised concerns about impacts to wells. City staff and the city attorney worked with the applicant to add a condition stating the applicant will take reasonable efforts to avoid negatively impacting public health, safety, and welfare during the permit term, including impacts that might impair neighboring wells. The condition also states the council may terminate the conditional use permit prior to its scheduled expiration if operations create a future negative impact on public health, safety, or welfare.

Council members discussed the recommended permit length. The applicant had requested a 20-year permit, but staff recommended a 10-year permit as the city—s typical timeframe for sand-and-gravel operations closer to the city. Council agreed with the 10-year recommendation.

Patrons at the meeting were told the city does not anticipate major issues based on the presence of existing wells and nearby lakes, but staff said the added condition is intended to reduce the chances of civil disputes among property owners.

Ending

The resolution was adopted; staff will proceed with permit administration and monitoring in accordance with the added condition and existing city code.