Commission tables two lakeshore rebuilds over septic feasibility and setback concerns

The Crow Wing County Planning Commission on June 18 tabled two lakeshore variance requests after members concluded more technical information was required about septic feasibility and whether proposed rebuilds could be moved farther from the shoreline.

At the meeting the board debated a rebuild and new construction proposed by Steven (Steve) Schmidz on Hanks/Bay Lake. Staff presented a revised survey and alternatives; township input recommended denial. The applicant said he had reduced the building size and ‘‘brought it back’’ from the lake but still sought a 57‑foot setback where 100 feet is required. Commissioners questioned whether the proposal could be redesigned to place the majority of additions within the buildable envelope and urged the applicant to return with a revised siting; the chair moved to table the matter so the applicant could pursue a revised plan and the motion carried.

A separate tear‑down and rebuild for Joan Brand (represented by Dan Carlson) was also tabled after commissioners highlighted missing septic design details. Staff said a prior holding tank had been designed in 2024 and staff had contacted that designer but had received no written determination; the certificate of survey shown to the board lacked precise setback measurements between any proposed drainfield and the dwelling and neighboring wells. Commissioner Sue stated, ‘‘I’d like to see a design done for the tank. I’d like to see documentation from a designer saying without moving it back they could put a drain field in.’’ Dan Carlson, the applicant’s agent, warned that moving the structure back would require removal of ‘‘significant trees’’ on the property.

Why the board tabled these items • Septic feasibility: For small shore lots, the board requires confirmation that a type‑one septic (drainfield) is physically feasible before approving variances that would allow holding tanks. • Siting alternatives: Commissioners repeatedly suggested applicants explore pushing structures farther back so a rebuild better conforms to the county’s shoreland standards rather than granting variances to expand toward the lake.

Next steps Both applicants were told they may return to the commission with revised plans, surveys that show well and tank setbacks, and (for Joan Brand) a septic designer’s written determination. The commission set no new hearing dates at the meeting; staff will coordinate next steps with applicants.