Board approves Brett’s RV interim use permit and adopts new mineral extraction standards

Blue Earth County’s board approved two planning items Jan. 20: an interim use permit for Brett’s RV Minnesota LLC to operate RV and marine sales and service at a highway‑business property in Judson Township, and an ordinance amendment updating the county’s mineral extraction standards, including new setbacks and hours of operation.

Planning staff (Scott Salisbury and John Considine) introduced PC02‑26, the interim use permit for property owned by Kobert’s Properties LLC and proposed to be used by Brett’s RV. Dustin Bretz, representing the business, introduced his family business background and expressed enthusiasm about opening in the area. The Planning Commission had recommended approval; the board voted to approve the resolution forwarding that recommendation.

On PC03‑26, staff summarized the ordinance amendment to replace section 24‑329 on mineral extraction, establishing definitions and standards for hot‑mix and concrete plants, crushing, recycling of concrete materials and borrow sites. Proposed changes included a 200‑foot setback from dwellings for mining operations, a 300‑foot setback for processing activities, and a 500‑foot setback for crushing or hot‑mix plants. Staff also proposed revised hours of operation (Monday–Saturday; adjustments possible per site-specific permit conditions) and an administrative permit option for road construction borrow sites. The Planning Commission and staff reported public comments focused on hours, dust, noise and setbacks; staff said outreach and a public survey informed the proposal. The board approved the ordinance‑based resolution.

Next steps: For PC02‑26, staff will complete conditions and permit issuance. For PC03‑26, staff will finalize ordinance language and implement new permitting processes and site evaluations under the amended code.