HomeMy Public PortalAbout08-12-2008CITY OF MEDINA
2052 COUNTY ROAD 24
MEDINA, MN 55340
AGENDA
MEDINA PLANNING COMMISSION
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2008
7:00 P.M.
MEDINA CITY HALL
1. Call to Order
2. Public Comments on items not on the agenda
3. Update from City Council proceedings
4. Planning Department Report
5. Approval of July 8, 2008 Planning Commission draft minutes.
6. PUBLIC HEARING - Hennepin County Public Works Facility -1600 Prairie
Drive (PID 10-118-23-12-0003 and 10-118-23-11-0004) — Amendment to
Planned Unit Development General Plan (No. A16846) for the
construction of a Wind Turbine tower and Civil Defense Siren tower
7. PUBLIC HEARING - Baker Golf and Ski Chalet — 2935 Park View Drive
(PID 17-118-29-11-0003) — Conditional Use Permit Amendment for
construction of two 22' x 80' (1760 square feet each) accessory structures
for the storage of electric golf carts in the Public/Semi-Public zoning
district.
8. PUBLIC HEARING - Ordinance Amendment - Chapter 8 of the City's
Zoning Ordinance — Creating a Private Recreation zoning district.
9. Open Discussion Items: Mixed Use District
10. Future Meeting Information:
11.Adjourn
Posted in City Hall August 1, 2008
MEMORANDUM
TO: City of Medina Planning Commissioners
FROM: Tim Benetti, Planning Director
DATE: August 12, 2008
RE: Planning Department Report and Updates
Update on Applications, Developments, Projects and Issues:
A) Uptown Hamel Zoning District Standards — City Council adopted the new Uptown
Hamel Ordinance at the August 6th regular meeting.
B) Rural Residential and Accessory Building Standards: City staff presented the Rural
Residential zoning district amendments and Accessory Building standards amendments at
the August 6th regular meeting. Considerable discussion took place on the RR district
standards, including the Animal Unit standards. Staff was directed to provide updated
revisions and research in other communities' ordinances; present back to City Council at
the Aug. 19th or Sept. 2nd regular meeting.
C) High Pointe Ridge 2nd Addition - Tim Druk and Mark Luetmer — Request for
preliminary plat to rearrange existing lot lines between 2920 and 2930 Parkview Drive
was tabled by the City Council at the August 6th meeting; requested staff to investigate
site conditions and other matters, and report back to council. Scheduled for
reconsideration at the Aug. 19th meeting. .
D) Mackin Easement Vacation Request. City Council adopted resolution vacating the
existing flowage easement inside the Mackin residence of 250 Bergamot Drive.
2010-2030 Comprehensive Plan Update
i. We received the City of Greenfield's and City of Maple Plain's comprehensive plans for
review; staff is currently reviewing both documents.
ii. [Medina Comp Plan Reviews Received from other Communities: City of Maple Grove;
City of Long Lake; Elm Creek Watershed District; City of Loretto, City of Maple Plain, and
Three Rivers park District]
Planning Dept. Update
Page 1 of 1 Planning Commission 2008
Medina Planning Commission DRAFT July 8, 2008 Meeting Minutes
CITY OF MEDINA PLANNING COMMISSION
DRAFT Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
1. Ca11 to Order: Chair Jeff Pederson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Present: Planning Commissioners Jeff Pederson, Michele Litts, Simons, Victoria Reid and
Robin Reid.
Absent: Mary Verbick and Nolan
Also Present: Planning Director Tim Benetti, Associate Planner Dusty Finke and Planning
Assistant Debra Peterson -Dufresne.
2. Public Comments on Items not on the Agenda
No public comments.
3. Update from City Council Proceedings
Elizabeth Weir gave update:
• Council reviewed Maple Grove Comprehensive Plan
• Approved CUP for Bi11 and Diane Nunn adding conditions
• Approved ordinance for storm water discharge
• Approved height variance and CUP for Hogan on Hamel Road
• Updated ordinance on burning
• Appointed committee to run contest for new Medina logo
4. Planning Department Report
Benetti updated the Commission on new applications that are corning up in the future months.
5. Approval of June 10, 2008 Planning Commission Minutes
Motion by Simons, seconded by R. Reid to approve the June 10th, 2008 minutes with changes
as noted. Motion carried unanimously (Absent: Nolan and Verbick).
6. Item to be Tabled - Hennepin County Public Works Facility -1600 Prairie Drive (PID
10-118-23-12-0003 and 10-118-23-11-0004) — Planned Unit Development Amendment
General Plan for the construction of a Wind Turbine with a height of 80 meters (or 262
feet) to the top of the tower and a 369 foot in height wing span.
Motion by V. Reid, seconded by Simons to table the application to the August 12th 2008 PC
meeting.
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Medina Planning Commission DRAFT July 8, 2008 Meeting Minutes
7. Public Hearing - Luetmer and Druk — Preliminary Plat to rearrange lot lines between
two parcels in the Rural Residential (RR) zoning district — Located on Parkview Drive
and west of School Lake (PID #16-118-23-23-0006 & #16-118-23-23-0007).
Finke presented the application. He stated that the two lots meet the standards of the RR zoning
district and the 5 acre contiguous suitable soils requirement. He further reviewed the minimum
requirements for a preliminary plat and informed the Commission that the applicant met all the
minimums for setbacks, lot size, width, and frontage requirements at the lake.
R. Reid asked if there would be a negative impact on the lake. Finke stated the lot change does
not have an impact on the lake. Finke was more concerned with all the restrictions placed by
the property owner on the one lot.
V. Reid asked if staff had a sense of maximum square footage that's actually buildable on the
parcel. Finke stated its approximately one half of an acre.
Simons asked if a public hearing notice was sent to neighboring properties within 1000 feet and
Finke replied that they were mailed out.
Mark Gronberg, the applicant's Engineer explained that the watershed easement area is restricted
to only allow grading and does not allow a structure.
Public Hearing opened at 7:26 p.m.
Closed Public Hearing at 7:26 p.m.
Litts stated she did not have an issue with the application.
R. Reid also stated she did not have an issue with the application.
Pederson said he didn't see any issues with staffs recommendations.
V. Reid did not have any issues.
Simons felt it met all the conditions and that it was well thought out.
Pederson had spoken with some of the neighbors and they were all fine with the application and
he felt the application met all requirements and was fine with it.
Motion by R. Reid, seconded by Litts to approve the preliminary plat between two parcels in
the RR zoning district, subject to staffs recommended conditions.
Motion carried unanimously (Absent: Verbick and Nolan).
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Medina Planning Commission DRAFT July 8, 2008 Meeting Minutes
8. Public Hearing - Ordinance Amendment - Chapter 8, Section 826 of the Citv's Zoning
Ordinance - Pertaining to regulations related to RR, Rural Residential District.
Benetti presented the application and explained that the City held an open house for residents
within this district. Resident comments were attached for the Commissioners to review. He
further presented information on specific properties that were identified to be revised. He
explained the intent of the RR district and the language that changed from the current
ordinance. Signage and the use of stands for the sale of agricultural products, provided said
products are primarily raised on the premises, were specifically discussed.
R. Reid asked why the City would add cemeteries to the RR district as a CUP. Benetti explained
that the City Attorney felt we should allow them within this district. She felt that cemeteries
shouldn't be allowed since we previously discussed the issue. Benetti stated that staff looked
at taking out cemeteries, but it was recommended to stay by the City attorney.
Weir explained that the City has to allow the use within one of the zoning districts, and since we
currently have a cemetery within the RR area we should continue to allow them within this
district since we have to allow them somewhere.
R. Reid clarified with Weir that cemeteries were more likely to be for profit if it was over 10
acres in size.
Benetti reviewed with the Commission the permitted accessory uses proposed to be added within
the district, such as land spreading yard waste and maple tree tapping.
Benetti explained the current and proposed regulations requiring five acres of suitable soils
within this district. He informed the Commission that discussion had taken place regarding
increasing the minimum lot size to 10 acres and not have a suitable soils requirement. He
explained that since the City has a lot of wetland areas, typically our average lot ends up
averaging 10 acres in most cases. He felt that having a suitable soils minimum worked well
and discussed this requirement with the City Attorney. The City Attorney felt it would be good
to keep the suitable soils requirement, rather than having a 10 acre minimum lot size and
disregard suitable soils.
Benetti then reviewed the hard surface coverage requirements for the district. Finke pointed out
that option one under the hard surface definition requiring a maximum 6% slope is difficult to
enforce.
Benetti reviewed accessory structures that house animals. He explained that the current and
proposed ordinance requires a 150 foot setback. He further explained animal unit density.
V. Reid questioned the use of home base businesses; if it was listed within the zoning district.
Benetti stated home occupations or home based businesses are still considered a permitted use
(accessory).
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Medina Planning Commission DRAFT July 8, 2008 Meeting Minutes
R. Reid asked why Skyrock was a CUP rather than an RR2 district. Benetti clarified that it
existed prior to the RR2 district.
Public hearing opened 8:09 p.m.
Chriss Renier, resident @ 3392 Hamel Road, asked why paddocks are considered hard surface.
Benetti explained that the paddocks are compacted by the horses and since water typically runs
off of the area rather than soaks into the ground, it was considered a hard surfaced area.
Chriss Renier asked the Commission to recognize "grazable" acres since horses are rotated onto
pastures, fed hay and grain, and the pastures are typically managed rather than depending on
the actual grazable area. She further questioned if the City has issues with the number of
horses. If the City does not have an issue with the actual number of horses, she asked if there
really is a need for a regulation related to the number of horses/animals. She feels that some
degree of regulation is needed. She also asked if a land owner didn't meet the proposed
ordinance, would they be grandfathered in and not have to reduce the number of animals.
Weir stated that the real problem relates to water quality. She felt that the issue of animal units
and water quality interrelate and that the City needs more strict manure management practices.
She stated that the City would grandfather existing horses.
Chriss Renier stated she needed to know what the objective is and appreciated the clarification.
The Commission reviewed the staff report page by page with questions.
Weir asked about the livestock and poultry, specifically poultry, since she regularly purchases
eggs from neighbors in the area and wanted to make sure this would be allowable under the
proposed ordinance. Benetti clarified that selling of eggs or raising chickens is allowed under
an agricultural use.
Selling of agricultural goods, eggs and vegetables were discussed by the Commission and the
consensus was that it was acceptable to have a stand to sell such products, provided said
products are primarily raised on the premises.
R. Reid asked for clarification on windmills and solar equipment within this district. Benetti
explained that a windmill is a conditional use within the district. Solar equipment was
relocated to the permitted accessory uses.
Pederson asked about public and semi public uses. He asked if it included or excluded City Hall,
Public Works building and golf courses. Benetti explained that the City Hall and Public Works
would be a permitted use and a golf course a conditional use.
The Commission asked staff to further research the proposed 10 percent maximum hard
coverage for lots.
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Medina Planning Commission DRAFT July 8, 2008 Meeting Minutes
The requirement of a 150 foot setback for accessory structures that house animals was discussed.
Benetti stated that the 150 foot setback was mentioned by attendees at the open house and they
requested that the setback be discussed by the Commission. Pederson and Simons felt that it
was fine.
R. Reid asked if the City defined grazable acres. Benetti read the definition to the Commission.
Chriss Renier raised a concern with the proposed definition of grazable acres in that she didn't
feel it was clear as presented since not all horses are surviving on the grass. She said that if
water quality and manure management are the greater concern then maybe that's what the
ordinance should focus on rather than the animals. She said if managed properly, it's a
possibility that twice as many animals could be allowed.
Pederson stated that the City has the right to review manure management if they received a
complaint.
Benetti explained how the chart works relating to animal units.
Simons asked about lots greater than 10 acres and how the ordinance impacted them. Benetti
explained that the ordinance proposes that a land owner could have one animal unit per
grazable acre.
Simons asked if the ordinance were implemented, would this help with the water quality levels.
Weir explained that the City is under a mandate by the Metropolitan Council to improve water
quality in our lakes. The City is under a federal and state mandate to do something about our
water quality.
Pederson asked if farmers are under the same or different mandate. Weir explained that farmers
are not under any mandate or regulation related to wetlands. Weir mentioned that the City is
applying for a grant to assist farmers to test/measure their soils.
Simons asked why we burden the first animal in the calculation. The Commission recommended
to start with one acre equals one animal unit. It was also discussed that it could be used for
properties over 10 acres.
Jim Renier, resident, asked who enforces the animal units. Benetti explained that it is complaint
driven.
Litts asked if we knew how many properties would be impacted by adopting an ordinance that
controls the number of animals per property (units). She informed the Commission that the
City has a lot of show horses that typically do not graze on pastures and are housed on higher
density locations.
V. Reid asked if Chriss Renier would be out of compliance under the proposed ordinance.
Chriss Renier stated that they have the second highest piece of property in Hennepin County.
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Medina Planning Commission DRAFT July 8, 2008 Meeting Minutes
She said she has 37-38 acres and 10 horses. Her property also has a CUP controlling the
number of horses on her property.
Benetti asked the Commission if they felt utilizing the requirement of animal units was
necessary. Pederson asked if this is what the City Council wanted. Benetti said that it is up to
the Commission to determine what is best.
Weir explained to the Commission that counting animal units is one way to address the water
quality issue within the City. She informed the Commission that the City would respond on
complaints only. She felt that horse population will continue to reduce over time as it has been
doing.
Pederson asked Weir and staff if utilizing animal units is the right track to measure and Weir
confirmed by stating yes. Simons asked Weir about the manure management plan. She said
another approach could be that if one wants to go over the animal units, the property would be
required to go through a much more restrictive manure management program.
Chriss Renier pointed out that the function of the Commission should be to make
recommendations to the Council with what they think makes sense and not what the
Commission thinks the Council is looking for from them. She further raised the point that
animal units may not be the way to resolve the problem.
V. Reid is concerned more with manure management and felt properties should be able to exceed
the proposed table if they have a good manure management program. R. Reid said that the
Commission would not have to decide what the manure management would be for each
property, but rather the applicant would have to provide the Commission with a
recommendation since technology changes.
Lilts asked if we prohibit grazing in a wetland. Benetti explained that we don't allow it under
our wetland ordinance. He said that under the proposed ordinance, if we allow one animal unit
per acre it wouldn't exclude wetlands or heavily wooded areas so grazable acres is a
measurement utilized in calculating the number of animals allowed on a property.
Benetti suggested that staff improve the proposed grazable acres definition to simplify it.
Pederson asked if wetlands were fenced off would it be easier to determine grazable acres. He
further questioned how we determine wetland areas. Benetti explained that wetland
delineations are required under land use applications.
Consensus of Commission was that animals are currently grazing in wetlands.
Weir agreed that if a complaint is made, or if staff sees a violation, the City would follow
through with the complaint.
R. Reid asked if most hobby farms in the City would have to be a CUP. Finke said they would
not be and that a CUP is triggered by commercial uses and accessory structure size.
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Medina Planning Commission DRAFT July 8, 2008 Meeting Minutes
Simons requested a simple grazable acre definition and that we reference the wetland ordinance.
He thought it would be best to not have a distinction for properties under or over 10 acres. He
suggested that if a property owner wanted to exceed the number of units allowed they would
need to go through the CUP process.
The Commission discussed "accessory structures for buildings used to house animals" and
concluded that a 150 foot setback was appropriate.
Public Hearing closed at 9:52 p.m.
Motion by Litts, seconded by Simons to approve the changes as discussed.
Motion carries unanimously (Absent: Verbick and Nolan).
9. Public Hearing - Ordinance Amendment — Chapter 8, Section 825 of the City's Zoning
Ordinance - Pertaining to regulations related to Accessory Structures.
Benetti presented the application and more specifically explained that the proposed accessory
structure height does not allow the structure to exceed 30 feet (mean roof line), nor shall any roof
line exceed 35 feet in overall height (top of roof).
R. Reid said that the recommended height conditions applied to all structures except farm
buildings used for agricultural purposes. Benetti stated that he would add language to the height
restrictions allowing agricultural buildings to be an exception.
Weir asked if the City can still have accessory structures with sport courts or tennis courts on the
second story. Benetti explained that the Commission originally wanted staff to establish
something simple. R. Reid felt that it's not what is inside of large buildings, but to decide a
maximum height.
The Commission discussed barns recently reviewed. Pederson felt comfortable with the
proposed ordinance. Litts and R. Reid felt the ordinance needed to define farm building. Benetti
agreed to add the definition.
Benetti explained that a detached garage used primarily for storage of products from the
principal building would not be allowed to exceed the height of the house. V. Reid raised
concern of a ranch style home (one level) wouldn't allow a two story garage with an office
above. She doesn't have an issue with the detached structure being larger than the house.
Simons asked Benetti what is the intent of the ordinance. Benetti said the intent of the ordinance
is to restrict the height. Pederson raised concern that motor homes wouldn't be able to fit in a
detached garage with the proposed height restrictions the way it is written.
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Medina Planning Commission DRAFT July 8, 2008 Meeting Minutes
Benetti reviewed exterior building material requirements. Simons agreed that getting away from
galvanized steel was good, though he wasn't sure about requiring the exterior building materials
to match the house if the accessory structure is detached.
Benetti reviewed the accessory structure square footage/acreage chart. He informed the
Commission that staff increased the allowable square footage. R. Reid asked that we add
footprint instead of square footage for those buildings that have more than one level.
Pederson stated he'd rather see one structure per lot than two. He also discussed with the
Commission matching the street side of the structure with the house. Simons stated that with
larger parcels more than one side of an accessory structure could be visible.
The Commission discussed amongst themselves what was acceptable for the maximum size of a
building for lots less than 3 acres in size and also for lots over 3 acres.
The Commission felt satisfied with the proposed chart under Subsection 4.
Benetti reviewed accessory structure standards for properties over 5 acres. The Commission
recommended the 10,000 square foot standard be reduced.
Benetti explained to the Commission that he discussed the exterior design requirements with the
City Attorney and the attorney felt the language should include words such as "compatible" and
designed with the "rural character of Medina". The Commission concluded that the added
language was good, since it provides flexibility of the Commission and Council on future
applications.
Benetti reviewed the proposed CUP requirements for accessory structures over 10,000 square
feet and the design standards that would be required. He stated that he included requirements
similar to those placed on Hogan and Nunn.
The Commission discussed the provisions of the ordinance as it pertained to exterior elements,
textures, and colors for structures over 10,000 square feet.
R. Reid asked the question of materials fading. Finke clarified the requirement that it pertains to
the quality and warranty of the products.
Benetti discussed best management practices and that they apply to applications for buildings
exceeding 5000 square feet.
The Commission discussed accessory structures 120 square feet or less in size to not count
towards the maximum square footage requirements for a lot. Accessory structures such as play
houses, sheds, or gazebos would fall within this category.
Opened public hearing at 11:01 p.m.
Closed public hearing at 11:01 p.m.
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Medina Planning Commission DRAFT July 8, 2008 Meeting Minutes
Motion by R. Reid, seconded by V. Reid to approve the accessory structure standards with
changes as discussed.
Motion carries unanimously (Absent: Verbick and Nolan
9. Open Discussion Items
• Open Discussion Items: Schedule Special Meeting July 17, 2008 for Wind
Turbine Tour.
Benetti explained the special meeting and asked which Commission members could attend.
Motion by R. Reid, seconded by Simons
Motion by R. Reid, seconded by Simons to adjourn at 11:10 p.m. Motion carries
unanimously. (Absent: Verbick and Nolan).
9
Agenda Item: 6
MEMORANDUM
TO: Medina Planning Commission
FROM: Tim Benetti, Planning Director
MEETING: August 12, 2008
SUBJECT: Planned Unit Development Amendment (to PUD No. A16846)
Hennepin County Public Works
SITE ADDRESS: 1600 Prairie Drive
APPLICANT: Hennepin County, MN
Application Review Information
,Submittal Date: June 8, 2007
Deemed Complete: May 12, 2008
Review Deadline: September 19, 2008 (extension
granted by Hennepin County)
1) INTRODUCTION
This item is a continuation from the June 10, 2008 regular Planning Commission meeting.
Hennepin County is seeking approval to amend their previously approved planned unit
development plan (PUD No. A16846) to allow the construction of a new wind turbine, and a
new civil defense siren on the HC Public Works campus. The subject site is located at 1600
Prairie Drive.
The Commission elected to table this hearing to allow Hennepin County (HC) to provide a
tour of similar wind turbines in Northfield, and provide further information for the
Commission to consider. The wind turbine tour was held on July 17 and consisted of a
personal guided tour of the wind turbine facilities located on the St. Olaf College and Carlton
College campuses in Northfield, Minnesota. Two members of the planning commission, Jeff
Pederson and Vicki Reid participated in the tour; along with Carolyn Smith and Liz Weir
from the city council; three citizens; and four county officials.
Public hearing notices for this meeting were mailed to landowners within one -mile of the HC
campus, along with notifications placed in the city newsletter and published notice in the
South Crow River News.
This updated staff report contains most of the original information from the June 10th report,
along with additional information provided by HC for your review.
Page 1 of 10
2) TURBINE DETAILS
Hennepin County is looking at installing either a General Electric 1.5 MW turbine or 2.1 MW
Suzlon turbine. The size specification for each of these turbines is noted in the table below:
model
capacity
blade
*length*
Chub
heightt
total
height
area
swept
by
blades
rpm
range
max
blade
$tip
speed$
rated
wind
§speed§
4,657 m2
38.5m
80m
118.5m
(1.15
10.1-
11.8m/s
GE 1.5s1
1.5 MW
(126 ft)
(262 ft)
(389 ft)
acre)
20.4
184 mph
(26 mph)
6,082 m2
44 m
80 m
124 m
(1.50
14 m/s
Suzlon S88
2.1 MW
(144 ft)
(262 ft)
(407 ft)
acres)
(31 mph)
* This figure is actually half the rotor diameter. The blade itself may be about a meter shorter, because it is
attached to a large hub.
t Hub (tower) heights may vary; the more commonly used sizes are presented.
$ Rotor diameter (m) x rr x rpm _ 26.82
§ The rated, or nominal, wind speed is the speed at which the turbine produces power at its full capacity. For
example the GE 1.5s does not generate 1.5 MW of power until the wind is blowing steadily at 27 mph or more.
As the wind falls below that, power production falls exponentially.
The June 10t' staff report indicated the single wind turbine tower would stand approximately
262 feet high from its ground base to the upper generator, and up to 369 feet from ground
level to upper -most tip of a blades. According to HC officials, the height of the tower for each
type of turbine remains at 262 feet; however, the rotor diameter makes the overall height
between the GE and Suzlon type turbines up to 389-ft. and 407-ft., respectively. This was
provided in the original information but was not specifically clarified or indicated under the
original staff report. For the most part, this increased height (389 vs. 407 feet) does not
change the intent or parameter of the applicant's request. HC will determine the size (1.5 or
2.1 MW) of the turbine later.
The cut out wind speed (at which the turbine shuts down) is 45 mph for each unit; and the
maximum sustained wind speeds at which the turbine may withstand is up to 100 mph. The
Applicant is also requesting allowance to install the tower within two years from approval.
The energy produced from this turbine would generate electricity equivalent to power the
annual needs of approximately 450 single-family homes. The electrical power generated by
the turbine is not used directly or fed on -site for the County's use, and is actually routed into
one of the local energy providers system, where it is bought at a negotiated price point (to be
determined between HC and the power company). Eventually, this power is re-routed back
into the campus site, where the power needs are paid at a standard rates. The cost saving is
met between the bought vs. used power needs by the HC facility.
Page 2 of 10
3. ANALYSIS OF REQUEST
A. Surrounding Land Use and Zonink
The HCPW site is guided under the City's 2000 Comp Plan as RC -Rural Commercial; the
west and east sites are guided UC-1 — Urban Commercial 1; and RR — Rural Residential to
the south. Under the new 2010 Plan, the HCPW site is tentatively guided under the new
Public Semi Public (PSP) designation; while the east will be guided Industrial Business
(IB) and General Business (GB); the west as General Business; and the south as
Permanent Rural (PR).
The entire HCPW is under separate PUD zoning district, and is surrounded by IP-
Industrial Park and BP -Business Park to the east; RR -Rural Residential to the south; and
BP and RR districts to the west. The section of IP zone to the east is the Loram facility;
DMJ Asphalt is situated to the west; and the Laurent families and Dellcroft family farms
to the south. Except for the main Loram property, most of these surrounding land uses are
fairly vacant or consist of structures or developments located at considerable distances
away from the shared property lines with HCPW.
B. Physical and Natural Characteristics of the Site
The site is accessed off Arrowhead Drive by Prairie Drive, which is a public roadway that
legally ends at the westerly property line. The subject property is improved with large
office building and outbuildings, along with the 420-foot high Sheriff s radio tower.
The HCPW site is impacted by a number of wetland bodies. It does not appear the turbine
or civil defense tower will affect any portion of these wetlands. The request will be
subject to the Wetland Ordinance, which under the PUD process requires the applicant to
provide a conservation easement to encumber wetland buffers around the wetlands, which
at this time would be up to 35-foot average and 25-foot minimum buffer widths.
The site plan submitted by the Applicant indicates two potential sites for the tower, with
Option 1 (preferred site) and Option 2 (as the alternative). During deliberations at the
June 10th meeting, it appeared the preferred location of the commission was Option 2,
which places the tower farther to the north (350' from Option 1) and away from any future
residential development to the south of the HC campus. If this Option 2 still remains the
preferred location, the commission should make this as a condition of approval as
necessary.
C. Site Improvements and Impacts
i) Setbacks: The original PUD documentation did not specify or indicate what
setbacks would be required inside this site. All buildings and improvements are
typically approved under the General Plan, which essentially sets or approves the
location and setbacks of structures. The two turbine locations are demarcated with
a 400-foot radius setback line. The smaller 1.5 MW turbine at 389 feet would fit
inside this 400-ft. setback, whereas the larger 2.1 MW turbine at 407-feet would
Page 3 of 10
exceed by just 7 feet. Staff does not believe this 7-foot extension should be of any
real concerns or necessitate the additional need of 407 foot radius setback line.
Noise: Noise is measured by decibels, which are a measurement of sound pressure
levels emitted from a noise source. These measurements are reflective of the
normal sensitivity levels of the human ear. According to the applicant's narrative
and supporting documents, the proposed 1.5 MW wind generator (and the noise
produced from such device) would meet the MPCA night time standards for any
residence located at least 623 feet away, and the 2.1 MW meets the standards at
850 feet.
According to estimated measurements (from City GIS/Pictometry program), the
estimated distances between the tower and the farmstead dwelling located at 1982
Hamel Rd (immediately south) is approximately 2,300 feet; approx. 2,700 feet to
the Anthony Laurent farm at 2092 Hamel Rd.; over 2,500 feet to the Dellcroft farm
site (out buildings — no dwellings); approx. 3,800 feet to 1400 Hamel Rd.; and
approx. 3,900 feet to 1585 Hamel Rd. Assuming the information provided by the
Applicant is accurate, then most of the nearby homes would not be affected by the
anticipated noise generated by the wind tower.
Although this permit is not subject to any Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
(PUC) setbacks or standards, the information as applied to wind turbines may be
useful for the commission's consideration. PUC issued permits require a 500-ft.
minimum setback from homes and any additional distance sufficient to meet
residential Minnesota Noise Standards, particularly overnight hours. According to
the PUC information, "typical utility scale wind turbines... require a 750 — 1200
foot setbacks from homes to meet these standards."
The information contained form the American Energy Wind Association indicates
a wind farm or turbine produces a decibel level of 35-45, and further states: "...an
operating wind farm from a distance of 750-1000 feet is no noisier than a kitchen
refrigerator or moderately quiet room."
Although the ultimate question of "how noisy will the turbine be?" is difficult to
answer, staff must assume the information submitted by the applicant is a true
reflective example or documentation of the turbine noises. This may be somewhat
speculative to some who read or interpret this same information, but for the most
part, staff concludes the noise would be negligible and the distance the turbine sits
from the south property lines further supports that noise and decibel levels should
be met, even if future residential dwellings are constructed in or around this site.
The Commission members who attended the wind tour to Northfield may be able
to provide personal testimony as to the wind noise heard from each wind turbine
site. Staff will also provide a presentation indicating the speeds and noises that
were picked up during video images of the two sites.
Page 4 of 10
Visibility/Sight Lines: The individual size of the tower and rotation of the blades
will definitely impact or change the views and visibility from all adjacent
properties (360-degree panorama view). Even travelers along the adjacent
roadways will likely notice the structure and turning blades. Although arguments
could be made that the existing 420 foot high radio tower exceeds the height of the
new wind tower and it already impacts these views, the turbine has large moving
mechanism affixed to it, which will likely make this tower more noticeable and
stand -out than the other static features of the site. Under our city ordinances, and
for the most part many other communities, we do not regulate or provide standards
on views or sight lines, or protection of views or vantage points from adjacent
properties.
iv) Other Improvements: The proposed civil defense siren is to be located near the
north edge of the HCPW campus. According to Police Chief Belland, the siren's
pole is only expected to reach a height of 55 feet or less, and is used only for
severe weather or other local emergency warnings. City and Hennepin County
officials have been working on this project for approximately 2 years, and each
party is contributing one-half the cost to install the smaller tower and siren. The
size and location of this tower does not affect or impact the larger adjacent radio
tower, nor impacts any other improvements on this property. This feature should
be a welcome addition for maintaining the overall public safety needs of our
citizens.
E. Wind & Economic Analysis
Inquiries made by citizens and city officials regarding the viability of this site as
related to wind resources and economics have been addressed by HC officials.
Attached is an abbreviated report from WindLogics, Inc. (dated Jan. 6, 2006) on the
wind analysis of the HCPW site, which was completed over a 12-month period. The
findings from the report indicate wind speed data yielded a correlation coefficient (R)
value of 0.906. The report states that an R-value above 0.60 is fair; 0.75 range is
good; while values 0.85 or higher are excellent. By accepting the findings of this
report, it may be concluded the HCPW property is an excellent site for a wind turbine
to successfully function.
Economically, the applicants have indicated that they currently have or continue to
work on the proforma for the turbine. A proforma provides a projection of the capital
costs, sources of financing, revenue, expenses and the profit bases on specific set of
assumptions. A current proforma was not submitted due to HC's continued efforts to
negotiate with the power companies, and the city is not privy to reviewing this
information until it becomes officially public.
HC previously stated the turbine would be used to help off -set the energy needs for the
large HCPW facility. The turbine will hopefully "cash -flow" after 10 years and the
longevity of the turbine is approximately 20 years, which includes insurance costs to
Page 5 of 10
guarantee cash flow. The years that the turbine has cash flow the county will allocate
for replacement of the turbine.
F. Compliance with City Ordinance.
Under the current zoning ordinance, Private Use of Windmills or Wind Energy
Conversion Systems(WECS) is allowed by conditional use permit under the AG -
Agriculture, RR- Rural Residential, RR-UR Rural Res. Urban Residential, and SR -
Suburban Residential districts. The code further provides under section 826.98 the
following standards to approve a CUP for a private windmill or WCES by the
following standards:
(i)
minimum setback from the nearest property line is 150 feet or a distance equal to
the height of the tower plus one-half the diameter of the rotor, whichever is
greater;
(ii) certified by a professional engineer as being of a design adequate for the
atmospheric conditions of the Twin Cities;
(iii) equipped with overspeed or similar controls designed to prevent disintegration of
the rotor in high winds;
(iv) compliance with all building and electrical code requirements of the city, the
noise regulations of the Minnesota pollution control agency and the rules and
regulations of the federal communications commission and federal aviation
administration; and
(v) the city council may require compliance with any other conditions, restrictions or
limitations it deems to be reasonably necessary to protect the residential character
of the neighborhood.
Although these standards do not necessarily apply under this PUD amendment request,
it would not preclude the City's discretionary rights to apply these standards under this
specific request related to the wind tower/turbine. According to the applicant's
submittal information, it appears the new wind turbine and tower would meet or
exceed these standards. The wind tower is shown with a 400-foot radius setback line,
which would meet the 369 foot setback requirements. The documents also indicate the
equipment and turbine will be built to specific engineering standards; equipped with
overspeed or braking measures; and would comply with all State of Minnesota
Building Codes, MPCA, FCC and FAA rules.
E. Level of City Discretion in Decision Making
The City has a relatively high level of discretion in approving or denying a Planned Unit
Development amendment. A PUD amendment must be similar with the objectives of the
City's Comprehensive Plan and the approved PUD final plan. The City may impose
reasonable requirements upon a PUD amendment not otherwise required if the City deems
it necessary to promote the general health, safety and welfare of the community and
surrounding area.
Page 6 of 10
Section 827.21 of the City Zoning Code requires any non-residential project to meet the
following standards:
(a) There shall be no minimum lot or area size required for a tract of land for which a
PUD Zoning District or PUD conditional use permit is proposed.
(b) There shall be no minimum frontage on a public street required for a tract of land
for which a PUD is proposed.
(c) The tract of land for which a non-residential PUD is proposed shall have
municipal water and sewer available to it or shall provide approved well
locations and comply with the provisions in the Medina Sewer Code.
(d) Off-street parking and loading facilities for a non-residential PUD shall be
provided in accordance with Section 828, Zoning -Performance Standards and
Enforcement of the Medina City Code.
(e) For non-residential PUD Zoning District projects, the normal standards of either
the RC, UC, RI, UI and PS zoning classifications shall apply to each project,
excepting those standards to be modified, as determined by the City Council
and as provided above in Section 827.27, Subd. 1 (a) and (c)
(f) In addition to the above standards, the City Council may impose such other
standards for a nonresidential PUD as are reasonable and as the Council deems
are necessary to protect and promote the general health, safety and welfare of
the community and the surrounding area.
For all intents and purposes, the original PUD appears to have met or exceeded these
standards. The new wind tower does not impact or affect any of these standards.
4. CONCLUSIONS
The Applicant has proposed PUD Amendment to allow the installation of either a 1.5 mW
or 2.1 mW wind generator turbine and tower, plus the new civil defense siren, as indicated
on the attached site plan. The turbine tower appears to meet the required setbacks, noise
and engineering standards usually reserved for such structures on either the Option 1 or
Option 2 locations.
As the City of Medina researches and prepares to implement low impact design and
development standards within our own ordinances, along with "greener" initiatives for our
own community, we may want to determine the success of this project later on when we
begin to plan for and design our own facilities, such as the new city Public Works facility
or a future city hall. Quite possibly, other businesses or industry within the community
could implement such a device for their own on -site energy needs similar to what HCPW
is proposing.
Page 7 of 10
For the most part, and what Planning Staff could interpret and apply in the analysis of the
information provided by the applicants, including our own observations from the personal
site visit of the turbine facilities in Northfield, Staff continues to have no objections to this
proposed PUD Amendment or the requested improvements. Due to the unique nature of
this request, and if requested to do so by the Commission, Staff may suggest we have an
outside or third party expert (similar to WindLogics, Inc. or an environmental engineering
firm) provide an expert review or analysis of the same information provided by Hennepin
County. This need for additional study is common in cases where information provided to
the city needs some type of independent or experienced personnel to complete an analysis
beyond the scope of city staff review.
If further study or analysis is not necessary, then Staff believes the Applicants have met
most of the criteria necessary to grant a PUD amendment. Due to the flexibility of the
PUD process itself, the Applicant is allowed the ability to request and propose such a wind
energy device even though it may not be entirely permitted or allowed inside this PUD
district. Conversely, the City also has the flexibility to regulate or provide additional
standards deemed necessary to protect the citizens and community.
5. RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of the PUD amendment to Hennepin County to allow the
installation of an individual wind turbine and tower up to a maximum overall height of
407 feet, along with the installation of a new civil defense siren located next to the radio
tower. The Planning Commission should reaffirm if the preferred location of the turbine
remains as Option 2, as per the submitted site plan. If Planning Commission supports this
recommendation to approve the PUD amendment, staff recommends that the approval be
subject to the following conditions:
1. The Applicant shall provide an updated wetland delineation report, and illustrate
the wetland boundaries on the site plan, as requested by the City Engineer review
memo dated June 2, 2008;
2. The Applicant shall comply with all conditions and regulations of the adopted City
Zoning Ordinance and City Code at time of approval, including the city Wetland
Ordinance and wetland buffer/easement requirements;
3. The maximum height allowed for any turbine/tower shall not exceed 410 feet (as
specified by the Applicant);
4. The Applicant shall be given the choice of installing a 1.5 MW or 2.1 MW
generator turbine on the subject site, and within two (2) years from approval of this
amendment. If within the two year period the turbine size is increased, the
Applicant will be allowed to have a higher generating turbine as long as it
conforms to the height specified in Condition No. 3 above;
5. The new wind turbine shall meet all noise standards (both day -time and night time)
as determined by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota
Public Utilities Commission.
Page 8 of 10
6. The new towers shall meet all State of Minnesota Building Codes, MPCA, FCC
and FAA rules and standards as necessary;
7. The Applicant shall submit any required permits, as necessary or required by
MPCA, Elm Creek Watershed District, PUC, FCC and/or FAA;
8. The Applicant shall provide adequate security measures, including fencing where
necessary, to prevent outside tampering or malicious intent by others to damage,
destroy, deface or affect the wind turbines operations or structure;
9. Any proposed grading activities associated with the proposed Option 1 or 2 sites
must be shown on the site plan for review;
10. The new tower and footings shall be designed engineered by a licensed structural
engineer and approved by the City Building Official at time building permit
submittals;
11. The Applicant agrees to share all information related to the costs to design,
engineer and construct the new wind turbine and tower to assist in Medina's
planning and budgetary preparation for the future Medina Public Works facility
site; Applicant further agrees to provide public information related to the tower
and the energy saving measures, and provide on -site tours (if possible) for
members of the public.
12. The Applicant agrees to consider allowing the city Public Works Department to
install a city -owned Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) antenna
on the radio tower;
13. The original Planned Unit Development Agreement (i.d. Contract No. A16846)
and the conditions listed therein remain intact and not subject to any revisions or
modifications under this PUD Amendment request.
14. The Applicant agrees to enter into a Development Agreement with the City of
Medina to ensure the development is completed in accordance with the approved
set of plans and conditions of approvals specified herein; and
15. The Applicant shall pay to the City a fee in an amount sufficient to reimburse the
City for the cost of reviewing the application and related documents.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Location Map
2. Applicant's Narrative (dated May 12, 2008)
3. Site Plan (dated May 12, 2008)
4. City Engineer's Memo, dated June 2, 2008
5. Sight Visibility Photos (simulated)
6. State of MN— Dept. of Commerce (Summary of Historic PUC Wind Setbacks and Standards);
7. American Wind Energy Association — "Facts about Wind Energy and Noise"
8. WindLogics, Inc. (Abbreviated Report)
9. Minnesota's Wind Power Industry Fact Sheet
10. Thomas Borman — Dellcroft Farms Letter
11. June 10, 2008 PC Minutes- Excerpts Only
Page 9 of 10
Attachment —1
Location Map
Page 10 of 10
5
ATTACHMENT - 2
May 12, 2008
Mr. Tim Benetti
Planning Director
City of Medina
2052 County Road 24
Medina, MN 55340
J
ARCHITECTURAL ALLIANCE
400 CLIFTON AVENUE SOUTH
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESUTA 55403-3299
TELEPHONE 16121671-5163
FAX (6121871-1212
Re: Hennepin County Public Works Facility — Conceptual PUD Amendment Narrative
City of Medina Contract No. A 16846
Dear Mr. Benetti:
After some discussion with the City of Medina, Hennepin County would like to submit a Conceptual PUD
amendment to its Planned Unit Development (PUD) Agreement with the City of Medina dated June 18, 1996
(City Contract No. A16846). There is one new Hennepin County development initiative, and one new City of
Medina development initiative, which generate the request for a PUD amendment.
A. New Development Initiatives
1. Wind Turbine
Hennepin County intends to build (1) wind turbine at the site. The wind turbine is in the range
of 1,500 kW to 2,100 kW (1.5 MW to 2.1 MW), which can generate electricity equivalent to
accommodating the annual power needs of 450 homes. The wind turbine is referred to as an
80-meter (or 262 feet) tower. The top of the wings extends to 369 feet. As a point of reference,
the existing radio tower at the site is 400 feet tall and the antennas extend to 420 feet.
Availability will be a consideration in the final selection of the manufacturer and size. It is the
County's intent to build the wind turbine within two years. Note that there are two potential
location options for the wind turbine. The preferred location is Option 1. The approximate
location coordinates for Option 1 are Latitude: 45° 2'51.97"N and Longitude: 93° 34' 19.19"W.
We have enclosed product literature from two wind turbine manufacturers, a footing design
drawing, a State of Minnesota PUC publication addressing wind setbacks and standards, an
article from the American Wind Energy Association regarding wind energy and noise, and an
article from the British Wind Energy Association regarding noise from wind turbines.
P:12007120070961CorrespondencelLetters105-12-08 PUD Amendment Narrative.doc
Mr. Tim Benetti
May 12, 2008
Page 2 of 3
In addition, attached is a table and a graph from a 2007 site application to the PUC by PPM
Energy for a recent large-scale project at Buffalo fudge The modeling for that project (9
different wind turbine sizes were modeled) indicate that noise levels from a General Electric
(GE) 1.5 MW turbine would meet MPCA night time standards at any residences located at least
623 feet away, and for a 2.1 MW Suzlon turbine at least 850 feet away. The link to the State PUC
for the PPM Energy application is listed below:
htto://enerovfacilities.ouc.state.mn.us/resource.html?Id=19192
2. City of Medina Civil Defense Siren
As you aware, the City of Medina and Hennepin County have ongoing discussions about the
potential location of a new City of Medina Civil Defense Siren near the County's existing Radio
Tower on the site.
Please contact me if you have questions or desire additional information.
Sincerely,
&ate We
PETER VESTERHOLT, AlA
Principal
cc: Earl
Karr
DeAngelo
Pravinala
File
Enclosures:
1. Site Plan: (3) Full size, (3) half size, (3) 11x17, (3) 8.5 x 11, (1) digital.
2. Site -specific photograph looking towards the southwest with inclusion of an 80-meter wind turbine
showing both Option 1 and Option 2, (1) page.
3. General photographic images of wind turbines, (1) page.
4. Product data/specifications from General Electric, (4) pages.
5. Product data/specifications from Suzlon, (12) pages.
Mr. Tim Benetti
May 12, 2008
Page 3 of 3
6. Wind turbine foundation plan and details, (1) page.
7. State of Minnesota, PUC Docket Number. E,G999JM-07-I 10, (6) pages.
8. American Wind Energy Association Article, (4) pages.
9. British Wind Energy Association Article, (3) pages.
10. Comparative table (2-1) of Noise Modeling of 4 wind turbine sizes, (I) page.
11. Comparative graph (5-1) of Noise Modeling of 3 wind turbine sizes, (1) page.
Note: A PUD Application with associated filing fee and mailing labels were submitted to the City of Medina on
June 8, 2007.
P:12007100.090Carrespoadencellelters105-12-08 PUU Amendment Narrative.doc
SfiAG
MOUNDS
FUTURE
MOUND SITE
OPTION 1
PROPOSED WIND
TURBINE
LATITUDE
45'751.9714
LONGITUDE: 69'-
93'31'19.101N
WETLAND
OPTION 2
OPOSED WI
TURBINE
LATITUDE
45 756.74'N
LONGITUDE:
'14'19.07'W
1
0
a
EXISTING
RADIO
TOWER
P .4.TA4D
94105
0 200' 400'
Pf 0iect PUD AMENDMENT
HENNEPIN COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS Date MAY 12, 2008
Cantu No. 2001056
Drawing No.
SITE PLAN
1
ATTACHMENT - 3
ARCNITECHIBAL ALLIANCE
400 CLIFTON AVENUE SOUTH
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 55403.3299
TEL (612)871-5709 FAX (6121 B71-7212
ATTACHMENT - 4
June 2, 2008
Ms. Debra Peterson -Dufresne
Planning Assistant
City of Medina
2052 County Road 24
Hamel, Minnesota 55340
Re: Hennepin County PUD
Bonestroo File No, 000190-08000-1
Plat No. L-07-013
Dear Debra,
2335 Highway 36 W
St. Paul, MI4 55113
Tel 651-636-4600
Fax 651-636-1311
www,bonestroo.com
Bonestroo
We have reviewed the site plan and specifications for the proposed wind turbine at the Hennepin County Public Works
site on Arrowhead Road. We have the following comments with regards to engineering matters:
• It appears that there are wetlands in the immediate area of the proposed wind turbine location for Option 1. To
provide an adequate review related to the city`s wetland ordinance the following should be submitted:
o Wetland delineation report
o Include the boundaries of the delineated wetland on the site plan.
• Any proposed grading activities associated with Option 1 or 2 should be shown on the site plan for review.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at (651) 604-4894.
Sincerely,
BONESTROO
Darren Amundsen
Cc: Tom Kellogg
AllEHITECTIIIIAL ALLIANCE
MAY 12, 2000
Hennepin County Public Works Facility
Medina, MN
Photograph looking toward the southwest at the Intersection of
Arrowhead Drive and Prairie Drive incorporating an 80-meter wind
turbine.
S-1N31AIHOVII '
ATTACHMENT - 5
GE 1.5f1e
1,500 kW
1Nr rurb'ne mull, generate
pmanr for akour up Millet
at a peed wind we Iron Loper
notwort wr aeapal4 meat'
Sand 240•ES
500 k W
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produce elernnar rw aarut
lja home{ at a good wow/ ute
fwemn m i. tue rangn
ar,eaifmp edpr MMWngy
M Of midi tffpf.
19a'
Bergey Excel UAW
f a yowl wuM YM.
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enough eaefrr.tsfy one
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112'
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Ke
ATTACHMENT-6
LIlk
MINNESOTA
DEPARTMENT Or
COMMERCE
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Minnesota Department of Commerce
Issued: September 28, 2007
In the Matter of Establishment of General Permit Standards for the Siting of Wind
Generation Projects Less than 25 Megawatts
PUC Docket Number: E,G999/M-07-1102
SUMMARY OF HISTORIC PUC WIND SETBACKS AND STANDARDS
Background
Minnesota Session Laws 2007, Chapter136, Sections 12-14, (relevant sections attached) provides
a new option for counties to assume responsibility under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 216F to
process wind site permitting for large wind energy conversion systems (LWECS) less than 25
MW in total nameplate capacity. In providing this option, the Legislature recognized that there
was a need for some standardization of siting parameters that would support consistent and
orderly development of Minnesota's wind resource. It therefore tasked the Commission with
establishing general permit standards by January 15, 2008.
The PUC order establishing general permit standards must consider existing and historic
Commission standards for wind permits issued by the Commission. The standards adopted by
the PUC will apply to wind site permits issued by counties and to permits issued by the
Commission for LWECS with a combined nameplate capacity of less than 25 MW. The
Commission or counties may grant a, variance from a general permit standard if the variance is
found to be in the public interest and counties may establish more restrictive standards by
ordinance.
This document summarizes the setback and permit standards required by the Minnesota Public
Utilities Commission (PUC or Commission) for site permits for Large Wind Energy Conversion
Systems (LWECS). PUC issued site permits have consistently required minimum setbacks from
certain land uses or structures to protect public safety, to ensure compliance with Minnesota
Statutes Chapter 216F and Minnesota Rules Chapter 7836, and to ensure orderly development of
wind resources.
The PUC has requested that the Department of Commerce Energy Facilities Permitting staff
collect public comments on the PUC permit standards and setbacks and make recommendations
to the Commission by the end of November 2007.
Public Comments
Interested parties are encouraged to submit comments on the historic PUC wind siting standards,
suggest additional siting standards or modifications to PUC's historic standards. In addition,
parties are encouraged to comment on procedural matters related to siting wind facilities by the
PUC or by counties and technical assistance needs which could be provided to counties in the
future by the DOC EFP staff.
Interested parties may comment on the proposed delegation process and PUC wind siting
standards by submitting written comments by 4:30 p.m. on October 31, 2007. Written
comments can be sent by mail, fax or by email. Please include the following docket number
(E,G999/M-07-1102) on written comments. Written or fax comments should be directed to:
Minnesota Department of Commerce, 85 7th Place East, Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55101-2198, fax
651-297-7891.
Additional information about the process to establish general permit standards, the state wind
siting process, rules guiding the review process, and additional information is available and will
be updated on the MPUC website at:
http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/Docket.html?Id=19302
The DOC will take comments into consideration in making its general permit standards and
setback recommendations to the PUC in late November 2007.
Historic PUC Wind Setbacks
Wind Access Buffer: The largest setback the PUC requires for LWECS projects is the Wind
Access Buffer, which can be from 760 —1640 feet, depending on turbine rotor diameter and
predominant wind direction. This setback is measured from the boundaries of the permittee's
wind development rights, which may consist of one isolated parcel of wind rights or thousands of
acres of wind and land rights made up of many individual, contiguous parcels. This setback
protects the wind developments rights of neighboring wind rights owners by requiring projects
be spaced apart to ensure that one permitted project does not "take" or negatively affect the wind
development rights owned by or assigned to others.
Homes and Noise: PUC issued site permits require a 500 foot minimum setback from homes and
an additional distance sufficient to meet the residential Minnesota Noise Standard, Noise Area
Classification 1, L50 50 dBA during overnight hours measured at residential receptors. See
Minnesota Rules Chapter 7030. Typical utility scale wind turbines today typically require750 —
1200 foot setbacks from homes to meet the standard. Each turbine, project layout and local
vegetative, topographic, and other conditions will dictate the total setback required to meet the
noise standard.
Public Roads: PUC issued site permits have historically required a 250 foot minimum setback
from the edge of public road rights -of -way.
The table below summarizes all historic PUC LWECS site permit setbacks. Some of these
setbacks have evolved over time due to changing circumstances or have been varied on a limited,
case -by -case basis.
Historic PUC Wind Setbacks
Resource Category
PUC Historic Standard
Minimum Setback
PUC Permit
Condition
Wind Access Buffer
(setback from lands
and/or wind rights not
under Permittee's
control)
5 rotor diameters on the predominant wind
axis or downwind (typically north -south), 3
rotor diameters on the secondary or
crosswind (typically east -west) axis if wind
rose shows lesser winds from secondary or
crosswind direction.
3 RD (760 — 985 ft) on
east -west axis and 5 RD
(1280 — 1640 ft) on north -
south using turbines with
78 — 100 m rotor
diameters
III.C.I
Homes
At least 500 ft and sufficient distance to
meet state noise standard (below).
500 feet + state noise
standard.
III.0 2
Noise Standard
Project must meet Minnesota Noise
Standards, Minnesota Rules Chapter 7030,
at all residential receivers (homes).
Residential noise standard NAC 1, L50 50
dBA during overnight hours. Setback
distance calculated based on site layout and
turbine by developer for each residential
receptor near each project.
Typically 750 — 1500 ft
required to meet noise
standards depending on
turbines, layout, site
specific conditions.
III.E.3
Public Roads
Minimum setback of 250 feet from edge of
public road ROW
250 ft
II1.C.3
Wildlife Management
Areas
No turbines, towers or associated facilities
in public lands.
No setback required
historically.
III.C.4
Meteorological Towers
250 foot setback from edge of road rights-
of -way and boundary of developer's site
control (wind and land rights).
250 ft from road ROW
and boundary of site
control.
Wetlands
No turbines, towers or associated facilities
in public waters wetlands. However,
access road and electric line crossings may
be permitted and subject to DNR, FWS,
and/or USACOE permits
III.C.S
Native Prairie
Native prairie protection plan to be
submitted if native prairie is present.
III.C.6
Sand and Gravel
Operations
No turbines, towers or associated facilities
in active sand and gravel operations, unless
negotiated with the landowner.
111.C.7
Internal Turbine
Spacing
Turbines spaced 5 rotor diameters apart for
downwind spacing and 3 rotor diameters
apart for crosswind spacing. Additional
case -by -case analysis based on topographic
conditions.
5 rotor diameters
downwind spacing
3 rotor diameters apart for
crosswind spacing
III.D.5
Questions:
1. Are these the proper resource categories to establish setbacks from?
2. Are there additional resource categories for which a setback should be developed?
3. Are there resource categories and setbacks which should be eliminated in the PUC's
general permit standards decision?
4. Do you believe these minimum setback distances are inadequate, adequate, or excessive?
5. How should the minimum setback distances be changed or modified? If so, please
describe the rationale for each change.
Additional Standards
The following list summarizes the additional PUC's standards applied to LWECS site permits
and references the permit condition where each standard is found. These standards have evolved
and have been refined over time in response to changing times, technology, permitting
requirements of other agencies, etc...
• Wind Turbines. Monopole design, uniform white/off white color. Permit condition
• Topsoil and Compaction. Must protect and segregate topsoil from subsoil in
cultivated lands unless otherwise negotiated with affected landowner. Must minimize
compaction of all lands during all phases and confine compaction to as small area as
possible. Permit conditions III.B.2 and III.B.3.
• Fences. Promptly repair or replace all fences and gates removed or damaged during
project life. Provide continuity of electric fence circuits. Permit condition III.B.5
• Drainage Tile. Shall take into account, promptly repair or replace all drainage tiles
broken or damaged during all phases of project life unless otherwise negotiated with
affected landowner. Permit condition 111.B.6.
• Equipment Storage. Shall not locate temporary equipment staging areas on
cultivated Iands unless negotiated with landowner. Permit condition III.B.7.
• Public Roads. Identify roads to be used in project construction. Inform public
jurisdiction controlling each road to determine inspection of road prior to use.
Permittee shall make satisfactory arrangements (including obtaining permits) for road
use, access road intersections, maintenance and repair of damage with governmental
jurisdiction with authority over each road. Permit condition III.B.8.a.
• Turbine Access Roads. Construct smallest number of access roads it can. Roads
must be low profile to allow farm equipment to cross. Shall be constructed of Class 5
gravel or similar material. Shall not obstruct runoff or watersheds. Permit condition
III.B.8.b.
• Private Roads. Shall promptly repair private roads or lanes damaged unless
otherwise negotiated with landowner. Permit condition III.B.8.c.
• Soil Erosion and Sediment Control. Permittee shall submit its Storm Water
Pollution Prevention Plan submitted to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency as
part of its NPDES construction permit application. Permit condition IIL8.9.
• Cleanup. Shall remove all waste and scrap from site. Permit condition III.B.10.
• Tree Removal. Minimize tree removal and negotiate all tree or shelter belt removal
with landowner. Permit condition III.B.11.
• Restoration. Shall restore area affected by any LWECS activity to pre construction
condition, to the extent possible within eight (8) months of completion of turbine
construction. Permit condition III.B.12.
• Hazardous Waste. Shall be responsible for compliance will all laws applicable to
the generation, storage, transportation, clean up and disposal of hazardous wastes
generated during any phase of the project's life. Permit condition III.B.13.
• Application of Herbicides. Restrict use to those herbicides and methods approved
by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Must contact landowner prior to
application. Permit condition III.B.14.
• Public Safety. Permittee shall provide any safety measures such as warning signs or
gates for traffic control or to restrict public access. Permit condition III.B.15.
" F i r e P r o t e c t i o n . P e r m i t t e e s h a l l p r e p a r e f i r e p r o t e c t i o n a n d m e d i c a l e m e r g e n c y p l a n
i n c o n s u l t a t i o n w i t h l o c a l f i r e d e p a r t m e n t . S h a l l s u b m i t t o P U C u p o n r e q u e s t . P e r m i t
c o n d i t i o n I I I . B . 1 6 .
" T o w e r I d e n t i f i c a t i o n . A l l t u r b i n e t o w e r s s h a l l b e m a r k e d w i t h a v i s i b l e
i d e n t i f i c a t i o n m a r k e r . P e r m i t c o n d i t i o n I I I . B . 1 7 .
" N a t i v e P r a i r i e . M u s t s u b m i t n a t i v e p r a i r i e p r o t e c t i o n p l a n s w h e r e a p p l i c a b l e . P e r m i t
c o n d i t i o n I I 1 . C . 6
" E l e c t r o m a g n e t i c I n t e r f e r e n c e . S h a l l c o n d u c t a s s e s s m e n t o f t e l e v i s i o n s i g n a l
r e c e p t i o n a n d m i c r o w a v e s i g n a l p a t t e r s i n p r o j e c t a r e a p r i o r t o c o n s t r u c t i o n .
P e r m i t t e e i s r e s p o n s i b l e f o r a l l e v i a t i n g a n y d i s r u p t i o n o r i n t e r f e r e n c e c a u s e d b y w i n d
t u r b i n e s o r a s s o c i a t e d f a c i l i t i e s . P e r m i t c o n d i t i o n I I I . D . 3 .
" T u r b i n e L i g h t i n g . N o l i g h t s o r p a i n t c o l o r o n w i n d t u r b i n e s o r m e t t o w e r s o t h e r t h a n
w h a t i s r e q u i r e d b y F A A . P e r m i t c o n d i t i o n I I I . D . 4 .
" P r o j e c t E n e r g y P r o d u c t i o n : T h e P e r m i t t e e s h a l l , b y J u l y 1 5 o f e a c h y e a r , r e p o r t t o
t h e P U C o n t h e m o n t h l y e n e i g y p r o d u c t i o n o f t h e P r o j e c t a n d t h e a v e r a g e m o n t h l y
w i n d s p e e d c o l l e c t e d a t o n e p e r m a n e n t m e t e o r o l o g i c a l t o w e r s e l e c t e d b y t h e P U C
d u r i n g t h e p r e c e d i n g y e a r o r p a r t i a l y e a r o f o p e r a t i o n . P e r m i t c o n d i t i o n I I I . H . I - 2 .
" E x t r a o r d i n a r y E v e n t s : W i t h i n 2 4 h o u r s o f a n o c c u r r e n c e , t h e P e r m i t t e e s h a l l n o t i f y
t h e P U C o f a n y e x t r a o r d i n a r y e v e n t . E x t r a o r d i n a r y e v e n t s i n c l u d e b u t s h a l l n o t b e
l i m i t e d t o : f i r e s , t o w e r c o l l a p s e , t h r o w n b l a d e , c o l l e c t o r o r f e e d e r l i n e f a i l u r e , i n j u r e d
L W E C S w o r k e r o r p r i v a t e p e r s o n , k i l l s o f t h r e a t e n e d o r e n d a n g e r e d s p e c i e s , o r
d i s c o v e r y o f a n u n e x p e c t e d l y l a r g e n u m b e r o f d e a d b i r d s o r b a t s o f a n y v a r i e t y o n
s i t e . P e r m i t c o n d i t i o n I I I . H . 3 .
" C o m p l a i n t s : P r i o r t o t h e s t a r t o f c o n s t r u c t i o n , t h e P e r m i t t e e s h a l l s u b m i t t o t h e P U C
t h e c o m p a n y '