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Eagle River planning panel delays U-Haul storage decision after runoff and aesthetic concerns
Summary
The Plan Commission postponed action until June 4 on a conditional use permit for a proposed two-building U-Haul self-storage facility (about 51,977 sq ft and an estimated $5 million value) after residents and commissioners raised concerns about stormwater runoff, flooding, aesthetics and tourism impacts and requested detailed engineering, landscaping and lighting plans.
The City of Eagle River Plan Commission voted May 7 to postpone action until its June 4 meeting on a conditional use permit for a proposed U-Haul self-storage facility at 1100 N. Railroad Street.
Shawn Odden, representing Amerco/U-Haul, described a proposed project of roughly 51,977 square feet comprising about 520 climate-controlled units (419 with inside access), an anticipated facility value of roughly $5 million at completion, and an estimated two employees. Odden said U-Haul data show strong demand and that the company uses "the highest level of security," including coded building access and automated alerts when units are accessed for extended periods.
Neighbors and business owners raised technical and aesthetic objections. Vic Washelesky, speaking with an engineering background, presented calculations asserting that, for a 57,000 sq ft building footprint, runoff could increase sixfold without adequate detention. Local business owners and residents cited existing pooling, airport sign/height restrictions, effects on tourism image, and potential impacts to nearby businesses and events.
Commissioners sought concrete engineering and design details, including an on-site stormwater detention/retention plan, a landscaping buffer and lighting plan, siding materials, and signage proposals that consider nearby businesses and airport restrictions. Commissioner John Hletko confirmed a proposed building height near 11 feet; Commissioner Kim Schaffer and others pressed on sewer/water impacts and security demands. Odden said U-Haul engineers would examine detention options and that underground detention could be considered in addition to above-ground solutions.
Given outstanding questions and the need for detailed plans, the commission moved to postpone the application to the June 4 meeting so the developer could return with engineering drawings and materials samples (motion by Mary Horant, second by John Hletko). The motion carried on a roll call vote recorded in the transcript as "all."
