An Interim Ordinance Related to Commercial Development In the City of Wabasso
Ordinance No. 252
A. Intent and Purpose. This ordinance is adopted for the purpose of protecting the planning process and the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Wabasso, while a comprehensive plan or official controls are developed regarding the expansion, annexation, growth and development of commercial activities within the City of Wabasso.
B. Statement of Findings. The City Council of Wabasso finds as follows:
1. The City of Wabasso has previously had limited regulation regarding the development, expansion, zoning, and growth of the City.
2. The City of Wabasso has decided to undertake studies regarding the development, expansion, zoning, and growth of the City, particularly as relates to non-residential development.
3. The City of Wabasso and the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Wabasso will be well-served by a planned development that maintains the desired character of the community.
C. Interim Development Restrictions. Consistent with the findings of the Council, the following interim development restrictions are adopted:
1. No annexation of any lands shall be completed during the period of this ordinance.
2. During the period of this ordinance no new commercial development shall be permitted in the following areas:
A) Adjacent to State Highway 68.
B) Adjacent to Impala Avenue south of Highway 68.
C) Adjacent to County Road 6
D) On West Main Street, west of Front Street.
3. During the period of this ordinance expansion of existing commercial developments along areas described in paragraph C.2., above, shall be subject to review and approval by the City Council, and shall be permitted only upon a specific finding that the proposed expansion shall be consistent with the City’s planning efforts.
4. No subdivision of lands, except for residential purposes, shall be permitted in the areas described in paragraph C.2., above.
D. Variance and Appeal. Where there are practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships in any way of carrying out the strict letter of the provisions of this ordinance, an appeal may be made and a variance may be granted. The person desiring the variance must submit a petition to the City Council, and shall appear before them. If the City Council finds that the variance is appropriate, does not interfere with the planning process, and is in the best interests in the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Wabasso, they may, in their sole discretion, grant the variance as proposed, or any such variance that they deem to be appropriate.
E. Expiration. This ordinance, unless extended pursuant to Minnesota statutes, shall expire and cease to have any force and effect on March 14, 2023.
F. Penalty. Any person convicted of violation any provision of this ordinance shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine of not to exceed $1,000.00 or by imprisonment of a period not to exceed ninety (90) days, or both.
G. Severability. The validity of any word, section, clause, paragraph, sentence part or provision of this ordinance shall not affect the validity of any other part of this ordinance which can be given effect without such invalid part or parts.
H. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect on the date of its adoption by the Wabasso City Council
Signed: ___________________________________
Carol Atkins, Mayor of Wabasso
Attest: _______________________________
Larry Thompson, Clerk