Controversial housing proposal sparks debate over environmental impact

The Stearns County Board of Adjustment convened to discuss a significant request from Jason Smith of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, concerning property located at 5716 Walleye Road in Rice, Minnesota. The proposal involves relocating an existing accessory structure and constructing a new single-family dwelling within the shore impact zone of Smarts Creek, a designated trout stream.

Smith's request seeks to deviate from the county's land use and zoning ordinance, which mandates a minimum setback of 200 feet from designated trout streams. The proposed new dwelling would be situated 71 feet from Smarts Creek, a reduction from the originally planned 89 feet. This adjustment was made following consultations with wetland staff, which identified potential wetland impacts that necessitated relocating the structure further north and west on the property.

The property, which spans approximately 2.75 acres, is currently home to a dwelling that Smith intends to remove. The new construction is planned to be 2,300 square feet, and the overall lot coverage will decrease from 9.1% to 7.8% with the removal of the existing structure. The septic system on the property is compliant, being less than five years old.

The board noted that the proposed location for the new dwelling would also eliminate the need for additional fill around the foundation, as the original site was partially within a 100-year flood hazard area. The board discussed alternative placements for the dwelling, including a potential adjustment that could achieve an 80.5-foot setback from the creek, though this option was deemed less practical.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and nearby property owners were notified of the request, and the board recommended that if the variances are granted, the existing home must be removed, along with an eight by twelve shed currently located in the floodway. The board's decision will have implications for local land use and environmental management, particularly concerning the protection of wetland areas and water quality in the region.