Owner wins recommendation to convert 40‑acre parcel to Rural Residential 10 in Crow Wing County

The Crow Wing County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment on Aug. 20 recommended that the County Board approve a land‑use map amendment for a 40‑acre parcel owned by Richard Zach in Maple Grove Township.

Staff member Nichollet told the board the parcel (parcel 76330514) is currently zoned Agricultural Forestry and the applicant seeks Rural Residential 10 to allow subdivision into four 10‑acre lots. The staff report said utilities and a private road are in place, two public comments in support were received and no agency conditions were recommended.

Applicant Richard Zach described his long investment in the property and asked the board to move the application forward: “I just hope that I can get this done. I’ve put a lot of effort and money into it over the years, and I really think it would be a great benefit uh to the community.” Neighbor Ben Bernatki told the board he has known Zach for 40 years and voiced support.

Commissioners discussed the county’s 2024 comprehensive‑plan update. A board member noted the county reduced acreage zoned R10 dramatically in 2024; staff explained much former R10 acreage was reclassified to denser categories such as R5 and smaller lot sizes as part of a county board direction to increase density.

After brief discussion the commission moved, seconded and voted to recommend approval; the chair and commissioners confirmed the action is a recommendation and the County Board will take final action on Sept. 15 at 9:00 a.m. in the same room. No conditions were added by the commission.