Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Aeronautics Private Airport topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Planning commission approves conditional use for private turf runway in Blakely Township
Summary
The Planning Advisory Commission approved a conditional-use permit for Wayne Nagle to establish a private turf runway and use existing hangar; staff noted MnDOT and FAA licensing and watershed/wetland reviews will be required before the airport is operational.
The Planning Advisory Commission voted to approve application 2026‑039, a conditional‑use permit for a private airport proposed by Wayne Nagle on parcels in Section 23, Blakely Township.
Associate planner Nathan Hall summarized the request: the proposal would establish a turf runway roughly 120 feet wide with a taxiway and hangar on an adjacent 40‑acre parcel; the hangar already exists. Hall said minimal grading is anticipated, a field tile will be relocated and the Scott County staff spoke with MnDOT Aeronautics about required licensing. Hall also noted the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act review had no expected wetland impacts from the proposed tile relocation and that Blakely Township recommended approval.
Applicant Wayne Nagle, who said he has been a pilot for more than 20 years, described plans to shift the runway about 600 feet to the south to enable a future home site on the remaining acreage. Nagle said he had owned an airplane for years and is looking for a new plane but intends the runway for private use by him and his sons.
Commissioners asked whether MnDOT or the FAA would impose additional requirements; Hall said the applicant will need a MnDOT private airport license, and FAA registration/requirements may apply. A motion to approve the conditional use permit, based on criteria in the staff report and noting township support, was seconded and carried by voice vote (transcript records unanimous “aye” responses). The approval is conditioned on compliance with the conditions listed in the staff report and on the applicant securing any required MnDOT/FAA approvals and addressing any required environmental or grading requirements.
What happens next: The applicant must pursue MnDOT Aeronautics licensing, comply with any FAA or state rules, and satisfy any county conditions before operating the runway.
Speakers quoted: Nathan Hall, associate planner; Wayne Nagle, applicant.
