The Big Lake Town supervisors had a busy meeting last week as property owners approcahed them seeking approval of some unique, sticky situations.

World of Wheels

Sarah and John are a couple who recently purchased Big Lake Auto, a business off of Hwy. 10. When investigating the purchase, they inquired with the county whether they would be able to sell cars there, as they desired (the previous owner also sold cars at this location.) The county said it was not an issue. The couple claims they have this approval in writing.

After purchasing the property, the county seemed to “change its mind,” telling the couple the parcel would need to be rezoned to commercial in order to do their business (it is currently zoned industrial.

The couple approached the Big Lake Town Board to have them weigh in on the situation. The supervisors agreed to send favorable comments on to the county regarding the zoning change. 

3 Variances, One Lot

A gentleman approached the supervisors after being informed by the county that he would need three separate variances for his home. The individual purchased a rambler and was looking to relocate it to a small lot on 191st St. off of Co. Rd. 75. The street is a large hill, and the back of the lot is considered a bluff, so the county informed him that the DNR would want him to be far away from the steep bluff. This, however, would position the house almost dangerously close to the street, with only six feet between house and pavement. 

He also needed variances on the back of the lot and the side, due to the septic tank placement.

The supervisors were not happy with how close the house was to the road, and sent comments to the county saying they would approve if the house was set further back from the road. 

Sheriff’s Report

Sgt. Luke McLean of the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) reported one interesting arrest when a man from Minneapolis attempted to flee from SCSO officers, crashing into a parked squad car which was not involved in the pursuit. The man proceeded to attempt to flee on foot.

Besides that incident, McLean had little more to report other than a large number of traffic stops on Co. Rd. 14. Although there is adequate signage, many motorists still feel the need to speed on that road, especially in the 40 mph zone on the south end of the road.

In Other Business, the Board:

• Was presented a copy of the annual meeting minutes;

• Approved a new ordinance regarding mailboxes;

• Resolved to take on road maintenance for the Wheat Fields Development.