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Venteicher Construction cleared to pursue rezoning for 38-lot lakeshore subdivision
Summary
The Dickinson County Planning and Zoning Commission voted 6-0 to recommend that Venteicher Construction move forward from a preliminary rezoning application to convert the north 80 acres to a 38-lot suburban residential subdivision; the developer plans phased construction with private septic and rural water service.
The Dickinson County Planning and Zoning Commission on April 20 voted 6-0 to recommend that Venteicher Construction proceed from a preliminary rezoning application for land on the county lakeshore.
Jim Venteicher, of Venteicher Construction, told the commission he and his son Joel are under contract to purchase the north 80 acres and are proposing to rezone the north section from A‑1 Agricultural District to R‑1 Suburban Residential District for a 38‑lot subdivision. "We have been doing construction for 45 years," Venteicher said, describing a phased plan that would use private septic systems and rural water from Iowa Lakes Regional Water.
Megan Kardell, Dickinson County zoning administrator, said the Venteichers had already met the County Engineer, Jeff Rose, during their due‑diligence visit. Chair James Blum and Commissioner Carol Pierce clarified that the first phase would use a single driveway off M56 and that a second driveway would be added in a later phase when rezoning for that portion occurs. Pierce said she inspected the site and the developer told the commission the lakeshore would permit boat access and that a boat ramp is present.
Commissioners also discussed road maintenance and covenants. Venteicher said the road would be a "simple road" and that he had talked with the county engineer about the county taking the road over; he also said the developer would both sell lots and offer to build homes, though buyers could choose other builders. Erica Schultes asked about a covenant for the subdivision and was told one would be drafted; accessory buildings would be allowed, the developer said.
Carol Pierce made the motion to recommend moving forward from the preliminary application; Spencer Heywood seconded and the motion passed unanimously (Schultes, Pierce, Lee, Menke, Heywood and Blum).
Next steps: the developer is expected to submit a formal rezoning application at the commission's next meeting, per Kardell, to allow for statutory notice and the county's due‑diligence period.
