The Saint Croix County Community Development Committee on Nov. 20 approved a conditional use permit allowing Joel and April Inez to continue operating a party‑supply rental from their R‑2 zoned property at 1549 126th Street, subject to conditions aimed at limiting traffic and preserving neighborhood character.

County staff said the business is a home‑based major occupation that stores party supplies on site, delivers and sets up off‑site, and has no storefront. Staff estimated typical business trips at 2–3 per day and recommended conditions that mirror the Town of Richmond’s suggestions: additional evergreen screening, employee parking confined to the property, a limit of up to three trailers on site, and a review of the CUP in two years.

During the hearing, neighbor Richard Lisonbee told the committee the development’s covenants and the quiet character of the Cherry Knolls plat would be harmed by a business operating next door. Applicant Joel Linnez acknowledged he should have applied earlier, apologized and said he would accept reasonable restrictions and screening to reduce impacts. “I want to respect all my neighbors,” Linnez said, adding he is willing to limit truck and trailer operations and coordinate planting for screening.

County staff noted the county cannot enforce private homeowner‑association covenants and advised the applicant to work with the association; staff retained covenant review as a finding of fact and included compliance with other local, state and federal permits as a condition. The committee’s conditions also prohibit parking, deliveries or pickups on 126th Street and require the applicant to secure any necessary DOT driveway approvals.

A motion to approve CUP 2025‑0226 with the recommended conditions passed on a voice vote.

The county will review the use in two years and may revoke the permit if conditions are violated. Neighbors who remain concerned can report alleged violations to county staff for enforcement follow‑up.