Commission approves CUP for Pete’s Puddle after staff says compliance items met

Harvey County commissioners on June 3 unanimously approved Conditional Use Permit CUP 24-06 for Ronald Anderson, authorizing events at Pete’s Puddle (4801 N. Willow Lake Rd.), after staff told the commission that most required compliance items had been resolved.

Planning, Zoning & Environmental Director Karen Rothe told the commission staff had identified items needed for final approval — including an inventory of structures, building and floodplain permits, and evidence of KDHE approval for potable water and wastewater systems. County Counselor Brad Jantz advised staff to prepare an updated resolution if the commission intended to reconsider last week’s denial. Property owners Shad and Ron Anderson told commissioners their neighbors supported events on the site.

Commissioner Terry Scott moved to rescind the May 27 denial and to approve CUP 24-06 with the Planning Commission’s 11 conditions; Becky Reimer seconded and both motions passed unanimously. Those conditions include prohibition of parking in rights-of-way or on shared easements without owner agreement, provision of portable restrooms and handwashing stations for events, contact with emergency responders prior to large events, noise and time limits to avoid creating a nuisance, and proof of KDHE compliance for water and wastewater before finalization. The commission also adopted Resolution 2025-16 formalizing the CUP approval.

The record notes staff will require documentation — such as a signed parking agreement if neighboring property is used for parking, KDHE approvals for water/sewer, and an emergency plan for severe weather and wildfire — before finalizing the permit. The permit will remain subject to revocation if conditions are violated under the county’s Unified Development Code.