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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION <br /> Tuesday,March 15,2021 <br /> 6:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> been coordinating with the University of Minnesota bee squad to find the best fit appropriate for their size <br /> and location of property. A narrative is included in the exhibits with additional information from the <br /> Applicant. Regarding setbacks, one of the conditions for the CUP is that all animal structures are required <br /> to be 75 feet from all property lines and 150 feet from adjacent homes. The Applicant submitted a site plan <br /> indicating all these setbacks are met with the proposed location. Another requirement of the CUP is that 1 <br /> acre of their land is dedicated to dwelling and 1 acre is dedicated for each animal unit. This is just over 2 <br /> acres in size so Staff feels this is met. All conditions outlined by the City code are met with no adverse <br /> impacts anticipated for the use of hives and honey bees. The Applicant submitted comments of support <br /> from the neighbors and the issues for consideration,if the Planning Commission finds it necessary to impose <br /> any additional conditions in order to mitigate any potential impacts by allowing this CUP. <br /> Ressler clarified this is a CUP, setbacks are being met per code, and there is support from the neighbors. <br /> Oakden replied that is correct. <br /> Todd Ziesmer, 3440 Bayside Road, said it is very straightforward, no variances, everything complies, and <br /> he is looking forward to his new hobby. He sent out letters introducing the project to 8-9 of his neighbors <br /> and has received very positive feedback. One neighbor had just a few questions and the primary concern <br /> some have about bees is them being a nuisance. He wants to clarify that honey bees are very different than <br /> wasps. Honey bees forage on natural plants, nectar, and pollen, so they will not be bothering the <br /> hummingbird feeder, oils,jellies, and when sitting outside honey bees stick to the flowers and the plants. <br /> Mr. Ziesmer noted they are amazing and he and his wife have been contemplating it for a couple of years. <br /> They are enrolled in the University of Minnesota bee squad online program and it is very fascinating. All <br /> neighbors that have responded have said they are looking forward to the bees helping out all of the gardens <br /> and flowers. <br /> Erickson noted Mr. Ziesmer may want to go up to 6 hives and asked if he would be comfortable with a <br /> limitation of not more than 6. <br /> Ms.Ziesmer would be fine with that,yes. <br /> Chair Ressler opened the public hearing at 7:31 p.m. <br /> The neighbor two doors down Ms. Solie, 3500 Bayside Rd, noted she received the letter, she is totally in <br /> support of it, and thinks it is fantastic. She is very much in favor. <br /> Chair Ressler closed the public hearing at 7:32 p.m. <br /> Ressler said setbacks are met, neighbors are in support, and there is a recommendation from Erickson to <br /> limit to 6 hives which he thinks is smart because if it turns into a larger operation the Commission can <br /> revisit it. <br /> Kirchner moved, Gettman seconded, to approve LA21-000019, 3440 Bayside Rd, Conditional Use <br /> Permit with the recommendation of a cap of 6 hives. VOTE: Ayes 7,Nays 0 <br /> 5. LA21-000020 JACOB BROWN, 4085 WATERTOWN RD, VARIANCES (STAFF: LAURA <br /> OAKDEN) <br /> Page 15 of 34 <br />