Planning panel to get look at comprehensive plan

The updated Crow Wing County Comprehensive Plan is expected to be before the Planning Commission Thursday.

The next stop will be at the commissioners' table.

Tuesday, Commissioner John Ferrari, who was unable to attend the March 11 joint meeting between the board and the planning commission, questioned why there were so many changes made after the close of public comments.

Kristin Hansen, planning and zoning, said the changes came from public comments previously received. Commissioner Dewey Tautges said after a lot of emphasis on controversial decisions through the committee process,he felt one individual brought items in through the back door at the joint meeting. Comments were not taken from audience but were taken from county board and planning commission members. Tautges did not name the individual.

"It upset me," he said.

County Attorney Don Ryan noted the board can take whatever action it sees fit when the comprehensive plan draft comes before it, meaning the draft could be accepted, rejected or amended at that time.

Commissioner Gary Walters asked what the next step is going to be. Hansen said updated ordinances and land use maps, which are already being worked on, are next.

Walters suggested another joint meeting to discuss the process with the planning commission. Ryan noted the board of adjustment members should also be included. Tautges noted people were waiting for the county to have the document done before spring.

"We are getting into construction season so we better do something quick," Commissioner John Ferrari said.

A choice of dates in April were suggested for the joint session with the chosen day to be announced.