Michael Whitelaw granted conditional-use permit for 1,200-square-foot storage structure near Rush Lake

The Sherburne County Planning Commission on Wednesday recommended approval of a conditional-use permit for a 1,200-square-foot personal storage structure on a shoreland lot at Rush Lake.

Planning staff presented the application for Michael Whitelaw, noting a survey from Widseth dated May 7 shows the proposal complies with impervious-surface and setback requirements. "He's proposing to do a 1,200, which would be the max allowed on a parcel less than 2 and 1/2 acres," planning staff said. Staff recommended four conditions for the permit.

Whitelaw, who identified himself at the podium as Michael Whitelaw of 5314 114th Avenue, Clear Lake, said he understands and can abide by the four conditions.

The commission opened and closed the public hearing with no public speakers, then moved, seconded and voted to adopt the written findings of fact. Staff cited findings that the proposed personal storage use would not injure uses or property values in the immediate vicinity, would not impede normal development of nearby vacant property, and would not create nuisance odors, fumes or noise. Staff reported the lot’s existing impervious surface area is 16,117 square feet; the proposed building, concrete pad and driveway would add 4,260 square feet, resulting in 6.6% impervious cover—well below the 25% limit in the applicable shoreland rules.

The commission’s favorable recommendation and the accompanying findings will be forwarded to the Sherburne County Board for final action at its July 14 meeting.