2019 09 17-pc-sumCHANHASSEN PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
SUMMARY MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 17, 2019
Chairman Weick called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Steve Weick, Mark Undestad, Mark Randall, Michael McGonagill,
Doug Reeder, and Laura Skistad
MEMBERS ABSENT: John Tietz
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Generous, Senior Planner
PUBLIC HEARING:
CONSIDER A REQUEST FOR A VARIANCE TO REPLACE AND MOVE A SEPTIC
SYSTEM TO THE BOTTOM OF THE BLUFF AT 1181 HOMESTEAD LANE.
Bob Generous presented the staff report on this item. Chairman Weick clarified that this
variance request was not specific to a septic system. That it would be a variance for any
structure. Commissioner McGonagill asked for clarification on the definition of the Bluff Creek
Primary Zone. Commissioner Skistad asked for clarification on the distance between Powers
Boulevard and Bluff Creek. The applicant John Jensen explained the location of the current
septic system and where they would like to locate the replacement mound system. Dale Denn,
owner/operator of Homestead Septic Systems discussed the mechanics of locating a septic
system on this site. Commissioner McGonagill asked about the height of the mound systems.
Commissioner Undestad asked about the location of the perc tests. Commissioner Skistad asked
for clarification of the currently failing septic system. Chairman Weick opened the public
hearing. Tim Bloudek, 1107 Homestead Lane provided historical information pertaining to the
contractors yard that was located on this property before voicing support for this variance
request. Chairman Weick closed the public hearing. After discussion among commission
members the following motion was made.
Undestad moved, Skistad seconded that the Chanhassen Board of Appeals and
Adjustments approves the bluff setback variance and encroachment into the Bluff Creek
primary zone for the construction of a septic system as shown in the plans shown on the
Certificate of Survey by SISU Land Surveying dated 8/19/19, subject to the following
conditions, and adopts the attached Findings of Facts and Decision:
1. The applicant is required to submit detailed construction drawings and/or plat drawings
for the project, as applicable. An engineer-designed plan is required to divert the existing
drainage ravine that would be impacted by the proposed SSTS.
Planning Commission Summary – September 17, 2019
2
2. The applicant shall apply for a septic permit for the septic system.
3. The applicant shall provide further justification of the impracticability of such a location
for a SSTS (e.g. a geotechnical report or perk test if the concern is fill/disturbed soil).
4. An erosion control plan shall be submitted for review and approval.
5. The applicant shall submit a tree survey showing the system located as to minimize tree
removal should be required. All trees 6” and larger in and around the construction area
shall be shown. Replacement planting will be required in areas cleared outside of the
septic fields. Plans and quantities shall be approved by the city.
6. Tree protection fencing shall be installed to protect trees and vegetation outside of the
construction area.
All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously with a vote of 6 to 0.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Commissioner McGonagill noted the verbatim and summary
Minutes of the Planning Commission meeting dated September 3, 2019 as presented.
ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATION. CITY COUNCIL ACTION UPDATE. Bob
Generous provided an update on action taken by the City Council at their meeting on September
9, 2019.
Undestad moved, Reeder seconded to adjourn the meeting. All voted in favor and the
motion carried unanimously with a vote of 6 to 0. The Planning Commission meeting was
adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
Submitted by Kate Aanenson
Community Development Director
Prepared by Nann Opheim