Planning Commission approves Cronk family’s 920‑sq‑ft oversized accessory structure at 6966 40th Street North

The Oakdale Planning Commission on June 4 recommended approval of a conditional‑use permit allowing an oversized accessory structure at 6966 40th Street North, the property of Shane Cronk.

Planning staff described the proposal as a 920‑square‑foot accessory building (46 by 20 feet) with a 16‑by‑20‑foot covered patio. Staff said the lot is roughly 1.3 acres in an R2 low‑density residential district, that the proposed building would sit about 60 feet from the front property line, be placed 10 feet outside an existing power easement, and meet the code limits for door heights and overall structure height. Staff noted the city’s conditional‑use criteria require oversized accessory structures to be under 1,500 square feet and that this proposal meets those standards. Staff recommended approval subject to conditions including obtaining a building permit, maintaining a minimum 5‑foot side and rear setback, keeping the structure at or below 920 square feet, ensuring garage doors do not exceed 10 feet in height, and prohibiting the use of the structure as a dwelling or for commercial activity.

The applicant, Shane Cronk, addressed the Commission and identified himself as the property owner at 6966. Cronk said he had begun moving land before securing approvals and told the Commission, “I do admit that I put the horse in front of the cart and I did start moving land… it was a misunderstanding on my part… I do take full responsibility.” No other public speakers offered testimony; staff said one written comment in opposition had been received and shared with the Commission.

A motion to recommend approval of the conditional‑use permit was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote. The approval is subject to the conditions read into the record; the applicant must obtain required building permits before construction.