Planning Commission recommends approval of 10,526‑cubic‑yard fill permit in Nodine

The Winona County Planning Commission on June 18 recommended approval of an interim use permit allowing the placement of 10,526 cubic yards of fill on a platted lot in the Zenke Subdivision (Nodine).

Chair Eugene Hansen opened Docket PC 06-18-26-01, and Planner Lew Overhaug presented a staff PowerPoint summarizing the proposal, including site plans, slope and road access information, dust and erosion control measures, and a township acknowledgement stating the New Hartford Town Board “supports” the proposal. The staff report describes the work as necessary to make the lot buildable and cites Chapter 10.7.5(9) of the Winona County Zoning Ordinance as the permitting authority.

Petitioner Mark Henderson of Dakota, Minnesota, told the commission he purchased the property in January and "hopes to make the property buildable." Commissioners asked about public water and septic availability, possible shared well or septic systems if the lot is developed, and the proximity of nearby trout streams; staff and the petitioner said a contractor has been hired to achieve acceptable finished slopes and SWCD review has informed erosion controls.

After receiving a handout of written neighborhood support and asking three times for public testimony (none spoke), the commission debated the wording of Finding of Fact condition number three to clarify who is responsible for road repairs. On motion by Lewis Reiman, seconded by Everett Rolfing, the commission amended condition three to require that "the owner(s) of the property shall repair any damage to the New Hartford Township Road (Duane Drive), incurred during the duration of this project and return the road to its condition prior to start of the project (or better)," adopted the Findings of Fact with that amended condition, and voted to recommend the interim use permit to the Winona County Board. Vote: Yes — All (5).

The adopted Findings of Fact state the use "will not create an excessive burden on existing parks, schools, streets/roads and other public facilities and utilities," that the fill will bring the lot to elevations suitable for a slab‑on‑grade dwelling, and that the proposal is consistent with the 2014 Winona County Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map (Rural Residential/Service). The staff report and Findings specify four conditions, including compliance with all applicable regulations and a final inspection to verify permanent erosion and stormwater controls per SWCD recommendations.

Chair Hansen announced the commission's recommendation will be considered by the Winona County Board at its July 14, 2026, meeting for final action.