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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMNIISSION <br /> MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 20, 1998 <br /> • <br /> (#15 - #2331 Marc Gillett - Continued) <br /> Van Zomeren reported that the application is to find in favor of the applicant that a go- <br /> cart business is an appropriate use in this zoning district. The applicant is requesting to <br /> lease 800-1200 s.f of commercial space from Bill Wear in the Orono Mall to sell go-carts <br /> and accessories. This is currently not a permitted use. Van Zomeren suggested it could <br /> be a similar use to that of a hobby or bicycle shop. She referenced the list of permitted <br /> and conditional uses as noted in the packet. The question for the Commission is to <br /> determine whether this use should be allowed in the B-1 Zoning District or whether <br /> appropriate in another zone. The application would be subject to conditions relating to <br /> hours of operation, repairs, lighting, etc. <br /> Van Zomeren reported that the intent of the B-1 Zoning District is to supply commodities <br /> and services to the surrounding neighborhood. This use would serve a larger area. She <br /> asked if go-cart sales is compatible with this zoning. <br /> Marc Gillett distributed information and pictures relating to go-carts. He said it is a safe <br /> sport in a controlled, fun environment. <br /> He was asked how he proposes to keep people from operating the go-carts around the <br /> building. Gillett said the go-carts would have to be operated on a test track. The local <br /> • track is found at the Dakota Technical School in Rosemount. The clearance for these <br /> vehicles is less than 1" so it is not practical to test drive them off-track. Test driving <br /> would not be allowed on site. <br /> Hawn asked about the size of the go-cart and delivery. Gillett said the go-cart would fit in <br /> the back of a pick-up truck and weighs about 140 lbs. with a child in it. Delivery service <br /> could be arranged. The carts are powered by a 5 horsepower Briggs engine. There would <br /> be about three on display. <br /> McMillan asked about repair work. Gillett said the go-cart comes in as a frame in a box <br /> and is assembled with an engine. It would then be taken to the test track. A vacuum <br /> system would be used for running the engine. There is the possibility of silencing the <br /> sound. Gillett said the sound is similar to that of a vacuum cleaner running. Gillett said he <br /> would not have to run the engine in the shop. It was later questioned how any repair <br /> work could be tested if the engine was not allowed to run. <br /> Schroeder was informed that the go-carts carried a warranty when purchased. Schroeder <br /> questioned whether the engine repair would be greasy. Gillett said the shop would not be <br /> greasy. <br /> Hawn questioned why the applicant wanted the business in Orono when the test track is in <br /> • Rosemount. Gillett said he lives in nearby Minnetrista. <br /> 26 <br />