PC 06/25/86 - Laserfiche WebLink

Minutes Planning Commission June 25, 1986 a corporation yard could be put in the City without covering up the natural resources. Mr. Swift stated City staff had investigated the aggregate matter and in discussing it with the Sand and Gravel Committee within the past year, the gravel companies indicated they were not interested in purchasing the property at the selling price. Staff contacted Jack Heck, formerly of Kaiser Sand and Gravel and a member of the State Surface Mining and Resources Board,who confirmed that the gravel companies could no longer economically mine this site if they had to purchase the land at its current value. Staff also contacted the staff of the State Surface Mining and Resources Board who indicated the corporation yard would be compatible with their guidelines for use of prime aggregate lands. Commissioner Michelotti asked the General Plan land use designation for the Busch property. Mr. Swift stated the new General Plan shows the site as "P & I" for the new corporation yard and the rest of the Busch property as "Medium Density Residential." The current General Plan designation is "Sand and Gravel Harvesting." Commissioner Innes felt it is incumbent upon the City to designate the area as best suited to the benefit of the community. The General Plan designation is reflected in the market value of land, and, if this site continues to be designated "Sand and Gravel Harvesting," its value may well sink to that level economically feasible for harvesting. Commissioner Michelotti asked about the compatibility of the existing General Plan designation to residential. Mr. Swift said they are not compatible at all unless the area is properly buffered. Chairman Lindsey pointed out that right across the street from the proposed mining activity is taking place. Mr. Murphy stated that his company would be interested in purchasing the subject property for mining purposes. The public hearing was closed. Commissioner Innes said there is definitely a contradiction when staff says gravel companies do not want to pay the price and Mr. Murphy says they are willing to pay the price. Chairman Lindsey stated the City has to decide the best use of the property. There is a continuous need for housing in the City. There is a need for a new corporation yard. The corporation yard would be a good buffer between residential and the activities taking place at the eastern end of Busch Road. Commissioner Michelotti said the corporation yard could be moved at a future time. She said when the General Plan changes are - 6 -