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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/13/2010Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Agenda April 13, 2010 Andover City Hall Council Chambers 7.00 p.m. 1. Call to Order 2. Approval of Minutes —February 9, 2010 3. PUBLIC HEARING: Conditional Use Permit (10 -06) to allow increased height for proposed salt storage facility at 1833 Crosstown Blvd NW. 4. PUBLIC HEARING: City Code Amendment to consider changes to City Code 5 -4 Weapons to update hunting regulations. 5. Other Business 6. Adj ournment y 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755 -5100 FAX (763) 755 -8923 • WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US TO: Planning and Zoning Commissioners FROM: Courtney Bednarz, City Planner SUBJECT: Item 2. Approval of Minutes - February 9, 2010 DATE: April 13, 2010 Request The Planning and Zoning Commission is asked to approve the minutes from the February 9, 2010 meeting. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSIONMEETING — FEBRUARY 9, 2010 The Regular Bi- Monthly Meeting of the Andover Planning and Zoning Commission was called to order by Chairperson Daninger on February 9, 2010, 7:00 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. Commissioners present: Chairperson Daninger, Commissioners Michael Casey, Valerie Holthus, Devon Walton (arrived at 7:05 p.m.), Lynae Gudmundson and Dennis Cleveland. Commissioners absent: Tim Kirchoff. Also present: City Planner, Courtney Bednarz Associate Planner, Angie Perera Others OATH OF OFFICE Commissioners Cleveland and Gudmundson read the Oath of Office. APPROVAL OFMINUTES. January 12, 2010 Motion by Casey, seconded by Holthus, to approve the minutes as presented. Motion carried on a 4 -ayes, 0 -nays, 1- present ( Gudmundson), 2- absent (Kirchoff, Walton) vote. PUBLIC HEARING: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 10 -02 TO CONSIDER TELECOMMUNICATIONS TOWER FOR CLEAR WIRELESS, LLCINANDOVER LIONS PARK LOCATED AT 13960 PALM STREET NW. Mr. Bednarz noted Clear Wireless, LLC is seeking to locate a 120 foot tall tower and wireless internet antenna array within Andover Lions Park. A conditional use permit is required to locate antenna above 35 feet in height. Mr. Bednarz reviewed the proposed Conditional Use Permit with the Commission. Commissioner Walton arrived at 7:05 p.m. Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes — February 9, 2010 Page 2 Chairperson Daninger asked for clarification of where the tower will be located in the park. Mr. Bednarz showed the plan to the Commission with the location marked on it. Motion by Casey, seconded by Walton, to open the public hearing. Motion carried on a 6 -ayes, 0 -nays, 1- absent (Kirchoff) vote. Mr. Jason Kunzie, 13881 Sycamore Street, stated he found himself in a strange situation because he works for an engineering firm that sometimes helps companies build these towers and now he is on the other side of the coin arguing against the point, the reason being mainly aesthetics. He stated he thought this was an ill fit for this neighborhood. The biggest thing is the topography. The train tracks are elevated through this area and this is high ground and is going to be a beacon for the rest of the neighborhood to look at on both sides of the tracks. The utilities that go through here are at or below grade and having a 120 foot tower that is nearly three feet in diameter is completely out of place in the neighborhood. He stated to call this area a park is a little misleading because it is really a trail corridor. This is more of a bike and walking path and in people's yards. It is not near a large open space to buffer it. He thought because of that the size is disproportionate to the area. Mr. Kunzie stated another concern he had was that other utilities will be piggybacked on top of the tower once it is constructed. He stated this could turn into a very large obtrusive piece of equipment. He wondered if this technology is really necessary. It seems pretty big and based on the size being proposed if they could install something smaller but more quantity could substitute for this. He also thought this will decrease their property values. He asked that they consider placement south of Bunker Lake Boulevard where other utilities are located. Mr. Chuck Rowley, 996 140th Lane, stated he had some objections to this project. One of the primary reasons he bought his lot was because of the park and the cul -de -sac and it would be free from this kind of thing. He stated from his deck he will see the pole on the hill sticking up over the trees. His concern was the size of it and the possibility of hanging other utilities from it in the future. He was concerned with the drop in property value of his home if this were installed where proposed. He thought all options should be considered. Mr. Gary Johnson, 931 140t" Lane, asked who Clear Wireless is and what are they going to use the tower for. He stated it would be great to get better reception in their neighborhood. He also wondered what benefit Andover gets from this installation. He also wondered if any alternate builds have been discussed. Chairperson Daninger stated one benefit of this is that the City generates revenue from it and the park the tower is in will benefit by the revenue being used in the park for maintenance and improvements. Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes — February 9, 2010 Page 3 Mr. Matt Larson, 987 139 "' Avenue NW, stated this tower is literally in his back yard. He wondered what other locations were considered because this is very close to the property lines where it is being proposed. He did not think having this tower placed back there made sense. He wondered why this was the ideal location for the tower. Mr. David Hagen, Consultant for Clear Wireless, LLC, explained that Clear Wireless is a wireless internet provider. He stated Andover will benefit by having wireless internet throughout the southern part of the City. The service will be more than twice as fast as any competitor in the area and at half the price. They believed there is a market for this service in the area. He stated Clear Wireless has looked at alternate sites. He explained the reason why they needed to place the towers where they are proposed in the City. He reviewed with the Commission the areas they looked at for placement of the towers. Chairperson Daninger asked Mr. Hagen if Clear Wireless explored any other type of pole to construct besides a mono -pole. Mr. Hagen stated as part of their process they had discussions with City Staff and other Commissions and felt that a stealth mono -pole structure as proposed with the antennas hidden within the tower itself would be a better solution to this area than would a camouflaged type of structure. Commissioner Casey asked if Clear Wireless was in any other municipality. Mr. Hagen stated they are currently going through other cities to launch this service in the metro area. They do have services in Duluth and in St. Cloud. They have service also in thirty or forty metropolitan areas of one size or another. Commissioner Casey asked if was possible to put an antenna on a power pole such as Minneapolis has done. Mr. Hagen stated it is possible to do this but have not been able to reach an agreement with Xcel Energy to attach antennas on their poles. There is also concern with respect to that especially with putting them on poles high enough to serve their needs. Commissioner Holthus stated since it is on a hill could they use a shorter pole. Mr. Hagen stated they look at the elevation as part of their study and they chose this site because it is high and this is actually a shorter tower than if they were in a lower lying area. Commissioner Holthus asked if this location for the pole improve the wireless service for the residents that live in that neighborhood. Mr. Hagen stated it definitely would. Commissioner Walton asked how long this technology has been around. Mr. Hagen stated the use of the internet has been growing and they are providing high speed wireless internet service at a very reasonable price. Commissioner Walton asked if there were boosters for the signal to allow it to travel farther than currently available. Mr. Hagen stated there was not. Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes —February 9, 2010 Page 4 Commissioner Walton asked what will happen if this site is not approved or does not go up. Mr. Hagen stated this will affect sites around it and if there is not a site built in this area a fairly significant part of the urbanized part of Andover would not have coverage of this-service. Commissioner Holthus asked if the location of the tower was closer to the corner of Bunker and the railroad tracks would that be out of range and if not, how would the pole need to be modified to be closer to that corner. Mr. Hagen stated he could not answer the second question nor could he say that would be a site that would work. Commissioner Holthus thought it would look less obtrusive if it was placed in that corner of the park. She thought that might be a better spot if in range. Commissioner Gudmundson asked how many of these towers did Clear Wireless plan to put in Andover. Mr. Hagen stated they have a total of five sites, three being approved already including two on water towers, one in Hidden Creels North Park, and the two being proposed at this meeting. Commissioner Gudmundson asked if the towers installed in Duluth and St. Cloud placed in parks. Mr. Hagen indicated some were placed in parks. Chairperson Daninger asked how Clear Wireless proposed accessing this site if approved. Mr. Hagen indicated they would access it from the Bunker Lake Boulevard side to get in. Chairperson Daninger asked if there will be a shadow effect from this. Mr. Hagen did not think it would affect the reception for the surrounding homes. Chairperson Daninger asked if all the transmitters the same power at all these sites. Mr. Hagen stated they are all similar. Motion by Walton, seconded by Casey, to close the public hearing. Motion carried on a 6 -ayes, 0 -nays, 1- absent (Kirchoff) vote. Chairperson Daninger indicated he received a letter from Gina & Scott Wills opposing the placement of the tower in the park. Mr. Bednarz stated he also received three emails from people opposing the proposal. Commissioner Gudmundson asked what other benefits there were for Andover besides the wireless internet. Mr. Bednarz explained the benefits. The Commission discussed the pros and cons for placement of the tower in the proposed location. Commissioner Walton stated a location in a park is acceptable to him but the location of this particular tower bothers him. The location of the tower is of concern for Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes —February 9, 2010 Page 5 maintenance and service. He thought moving it closer to Bunker Lake Boulevard seemed like a more acceptable possibility to get it out of the natural area. Chairperson Daninger asked if any of the Commissioners were in favor of this location. Commissioner Holthus indicated she was in favor of it being at Lions Park but she did not like the location. She thought the Park Commission needed to decide where in the park the tower should be placed. Commissioner Cleveland stated he would be more comfortable with the tower placed elsewhere in the park. Commissioner Casey agreed and stated it would be less obtrusive and disruptive to the neighborhood. Mr. Bednarz explained to the Commission the options they had for recommendation of this item. The Commission reviewed the park layout and discussed possible alternate sites for the tower. The majority of the Commission was ok with using the park for the tower but would like to have Clear Wireless, LLC find an alternate location for the tower. Mr. Hagen indicated they would be willing to look at alternate locations within the park. Motion by Walton, seconded by Casey, to recommend to the City Council approval of the tower in Lions Park but at a different location deferring either to the Parks Commission or the City Council for the exact location. Chairperson Daninger stated he was going to vote against this because he was not sure about the technology and even if they move this to the corner there are more houses over the train tracks. Motion carried on a 5 -ayes, 1 -nays ( Daninger), 1- absent (Kirchoff) vote. Mr. Bednarz stated that this item would be before the Park Commission at the February 18, 2010 Park Commission meeting and March 2, 2010 Council meeting. PUBLIC HEARING: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 10 -03 TO CONSIDER TELECOMMUNICATIONS TOWER FOR CLEAR WIRELESS, LLC IN SHADOWBROOK EAST PARK LOCATED AT 13789 B UTTERNUT STREET NWW, Mr. Bednarz noted Clear Wireless, LLC is seeking to locate a 118 foot tall tower and wireless internet antenna array within Shadowbrook East Park. A conditional use permit is required to locate antenna above 35 feet in height. Mr. Bednarz reviewed the proposed Conditional Use Permit with the Commission Commissioner Walton left the meeting. Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes — February 9, 2010 Page 6 Motion by Casey, seconded by Cleveland, to open the public hearing. Motion carried on a 5 -ayes, 0 -nays, 1- present (Walton) vote, 1- absent (Kirchoff) vote. Mr. Jason Kunzie, 13881 Sycamore Street, thought this proposed construction of the towers seemed a bit counter to the City's effort in working with the Trust for Public Land for preserving open space. He stated they have open space and they are building on it and allowing commerce to build on it for a service that he did not think was needed. Mr. Bednarz reviewed the open space bond referendum with the residents and where towers are allowed in public areas of the City. Commissioner Walton returned to the meeting. Mr. Larson, 987 139th Avenue, asked what Clear Wireless' market in Andover is and do they really need the service. He wondered what will happen if this service does not pan out and he also wondered who will be able to access this service and would they have to subscribe to the service to use it. Mr. Dave Hagen explained they are providing a service that will compete with other internet providers and at about half the cost with superior service. He understood there were a large number of home businesses located in Andover that would utilize this service. He reviewed with the Commission who were the owners of Clear Wireless, LLC. He stated that if the towers are not used he thought they would be taken down. Commissioner Cleveland asked how many other antenna arrays could be placed on a tower of that size. Mr. Hagen stated up to three additional antenna arrays could be placed. The Commission reviewed with Mr. Hagen alternative sites for this tower. Chairperson Daninger asked if Clear Wireless has approached Anoka County regarding their tower in the area for placement of an antenna. Mr. Hagen stated they have approached them and it was submitted as a possibility to their radio frequency engineers and it was outside of the search area. Mr. Hagen discussed with the Commission other possible sites he had submitted for consideration. Motion by Casey, seconded by Walton, to close the public hearing. Motion carried on a 6 -ayes, 0 -nays, 1- absent (Kirchoff) vote. Commissioner Walton asked if there is anything in the contract regarding removal of the tower if it is not being used or goes out of business. Mr. Bednarz stated he was not sure Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes —February 9, 2010 Page 7 if there was a clause in the contract regarding removal and who would pay for the removal. The Commission agreed they would like the Park Commission to review this item and make a recommendation for placement of the tower. Motion by Walton, seconded by Casey, to recommend the tower in Shadowbrook but leave the location determination up to the Park Commission. Motion carried on a 4 -ayes, 2 -nays (Daninger, Goodmanson), 1- absent (Kirchoff) vote. Mr. Bednarz stated that this item would be before the Park Commission at the February 18, 2010 Park Commission and March 2, 2010 City Council meeting. PUBLIC HEARING. CITY CODE AMENDMENT TO CONSIDER CHANGES TO CITY CODE FOR EXTERIOR STORAGE OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES AND STORAGE ITEMS. Ms. Perera noted the City Council directed staff to prepare two draft amendments to the City Code pertaining to vehicles and exterior storage. The direction given was to allow up to one commercial vehicle such as a truck, suburban, or a van other than a "cube van" or "moving truck" to be parked on a residential driveway. They also directed that staff prepare an amendment to allow an increased length of up to forty (40) feet for adequately screened recreational vehicles such as motor homes, campers, travel trailers that are located in the rear yards of rural lots which are two and a half (2.5) acres plus in size. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on January 12, 2010 and continued the public hearing to the meeting tonight in order to review and consider a draft amendment as discussed. Ms. Perera reviewed the staff report with the Commission. The public hearing was continued from the last meeting. There was no public input. Ms. Perera asked the Commission what they felt would be appropriate for the maximum allowable Gross Vehicle Weight. The Commission was ok with the Gross Vehicle Weight of 12,000 pounds as proposed. Ms. Perera asked the Commission what would be the maximum number of commercial vehicles allowed to be parked in a driveway. The Commission discussed what they thought would be adequate and decided one in the driveway and one in the garage would be fine and it would be ok to have two vehicles in the driveway during the day but not overnight or on the weekend. Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes — February 9, 2010 Page 8 Ms. Perera asked the Commission what types of commercial vehicles would be appropriate to allow. The Commission reviewed Ms. Perera's sample exhibit of the different styles and decided vehicles numbered one and two would not be allowed with the three criteria proposed in the draft code amendment but vehicles numbered as three and four would be allowed. Commissioner Cleveland stated he had a problem with the style of the vehicle numbered one because there are similar styles of small, foreign trucks that are out there and should not be excluded. Ms. Perera thought the Council wanted the cube van to be prohibited. Commissioner Walton thought the nine feet and 12,000 pounds limit was what should be used as criteria for commercial vehicles allowed. He wondered if they were going to go by shape and aesthetics or by commercial vehicles. Chairperson Daninger noted that based on the criteria, vehicles numbered as one, two and six would be prohibited. He thought they needed to keep all three criteria as proposed in the draft code amendment, otherwise they will be allowing in all sorts of commercial vehicles to be stored at a residence. Commissioner Walton stated as long as they allow two vehicles, he would be fine with leaving criteria three in as proposed. Chairperson Daninger indicated that he was fine with vehicles numbered as three and four in the exhibit presented by Ms. Perera for vehicles to be allowed. He would recommend that the other vehicles numbered in the exhibit not be allowed. The Commission discussed screening of recreational vehicles. The majority of the Commission felt there should not be any screening because it would be difficult to require with the large recreational vehicles and there would not be a realistic way to regulate it. The Commission reviewed the types of vehicles they should allow to be stored in a driveway. Commissioner Holthus indicated she did not like any of the numbered vehicles presented in the exhibit. Commissioner Casey thought they should prohibit vehicle numbered as five and six along with numbers one and two. He thought vehicle number seven will become more popular in the future. Commissioner Cleveland, Gudmundson, and Walton agreed with Commissioner Casey. Chairperson Daninger agreed to allow vehicles numbered as three, four and seven because he thought this was the right fit. He thought these were smaller or the same size as the van and he did not want to go beyond that right now as a recommendation. Commission consensus was to include vehicles numbered as three, four and seven. Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes — February 9, 2010 Page 9 Ms. Perera stated staff will work with the City Attorney on language for the ordinance to accommodate those types of vehicles. Chairperson Daninger stated it was his understanding that all three criteria would remain in place along with the vehicles that were indicated. Motion by Walton, seconded by Casey, to recommend approval of the City Code amendment regarding exterior storage of commercial vehicles with the provisions given to them by City Staff and as discussed. Motion carried on a 6 -ayes, 0 -nays, 1- absent (Kirchoff) vote. Mr. Bednarz stated that this item would be before the Council at the March 2, 2010 City Council meeting. OTHER B USINESS. Mr. Bednarz updated the Planning Commission on related items. ADJOURNMENT. Motion by Gudmundson, seconded by Casey, to adjourn the meeting at 9:18 p.m. Motion carried on a 6 -ayes, 0 -nays, 1- absent (Kirchoff) vote. Respectfully Submitted, Sue Osbeck, Recording Secretary TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755 -5100 FAX (763) 755 -8923 • WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US TO: Planning and Zoning Commissioners FROM: Courtney Bednarz, City Plannek SUBJECT: PUBLIC HEARING: Conditional Use Permit (10 -06) to allow increased height for proposed salt storage facility at 1833 Crosstown Blvd NW. DATE: April 13, 2010 INTRODUCTION The city is seeking to construct a salt storage facility to provide cost savings on winter road maintenance. The attached letter from the Public Works Director /City Engineer summarizes the need for this project. DISCUSSION Code 12 -3 -4 provides a maximum height allowance of 35 feet. The roof peak of the building will be a maximum of 43 feet in height. The height of the structure is important to allow trucks to empty salt inside the structure. The attachments show the proposed location and design of the building. City Code 12 -3 -5 B. allows a Conditional Use Permit to be issued to increase the allowable height of a structure under the criteria as shown below. City Code 12 -3 -5: MINIMUM DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS: B. Maximum Height: 1. Principal Structure Height: .A Conditional Use Permit may be granted to allow principal buildings to exceed the height limits imposed by provisions of this title provided it is determined that: a. Adequate fire protection and other safety features are provided. b. The. height and bulk of the building will not destroy a scenic or appropriate view, will not shut off light and air from surrounding properties, or otherwise be detrimental to the public. c. In no event, however, shall any building occupy more than the permitted percentage of lot area as provided in this title. (Amended Ord. 314, 10 -4 -05) Fire Protection The building will be constructed in compliance with the International Fire and Building Codes. s Scenic /Appropriate View The structure will be located near the center of the public works complex to maximize the distance from adjacent residential neighborhoods and public streets. Screening will be provided by trees to be planted along the north and west sides of the property. The distance and screening will mitigate views of the taller structure. Lot Area Coverage The structure will be approximately 8,100 square feet in size. The combined area of the two lots that have been combined to remove the property line from under the proposed site are approximately 14.4 acres in size. The building will cover 1.3 percent of the lot or significantly less than the 20% allowed by City Code 12 -3 -4. Staff Recommendation The height of the building is important to allow trucks to deliver and empty salt inside the building. The criteria for allowing an increase in the height of the structure can be met. Staff recommends approval of the Conditional Use Permit. ACTION REQUESTED The Planning Commission is asked to hold a public hearing and make a recommendation to the City Council on the Conditional Use Permit request. r Attachments Resolution Location Map Letter Site Plan Photograph Cc: Dave Berkowitz CITY OF ANDOVER COUNTY OF ANOKA STATE OF MINNESOTA RES. NO. A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REQUEST FOR AN INCREASE OF THE ALLOWABLE HEIGHT FOR A STRUCTURE FROM 35 FEET TO 43 FEET FOR THE CITY OF ANDOVER SALT STORAGE BUILDING LOCATED ON PROPERTY LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS THAT PRT OF W 285 FT OF E 640 FT OF NWl /4 OF SE1 /4 OF SEC 22 TWP 32 RGE 24 LYG NLY OF S 330 FT THEREOF, SUBJ TO EASE OF REC AND THAT PRT OF E 355 FT OF NW1 /4 OF SE1 /4 OF SEC 22 TWP 32 RGE 24 LYG NLY OF S 330 FT THEREOF SUBJ TO EASE OF REC WHEREAS, the City of Andover has requested a conditional use permit to increase the allowable height to allow construction of a salt storage building; and WHEREAS, City Code 12 -3 -5 allows a conditional use permit for increased building height under the following conditions: a. Adequate fire protection and other safety features are provided. b. The height and bulk of the building will not destroy a scenic or appropriate view, will not shut off light and air from surrounding properties, or otherwise be detrimental to the public. c. In no event, however, shall any building occupy more than the permitted percentage of lot area as provided in this title. (Amended Ord. 314, 10 -4 -05) WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a Public Hearing pursuant to the requirements of City Code 12 -14 -8, and; WHEREAS, after review the Planning Commission finds that the proposed project meets the conditions of City Code 12 -3 -5 and recommends approval of the request, and; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Andover has received the recommendation of the Planning Commission and approves the proposed conditional use permit to increase the allowable height from 35 feet to 43 feet for the construction of a salt storage building on the subject property subject to the following conditions: 1) The location of the structure shall be as shown on the site plan dated April 5, 2010. 2) Screening shall be provided between the structure and residential neighborhoods to the north and west. 3) The Conditional Use Permit shall be subject to a sunset clause as defined in City Code 12 -14 -6. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Andover on this -th day of , 2010 CITY OF ANDOVER ATTEST: Michelle Hartner, Deputy City Clerk Michael R. Gamache, Mayor C 1'rY OI NDOVER Incorporated 1974 15318 15260 1115271 Salt Storage Facility Location Map t 11537 rn rn m 7 10% 's 15302 Oa ° CO CO � N M cc, 14970 15211 ° N ° CV ° N ° N 14970 r h M I N N N N ^Z UJ Z D M 15029 15026 �Q V 15015 14970 14995 14981 14967 fO 14970 15355 Proposed building location Peak of roof at 43 feet in height City ark Complex # M CD CO CO I CD rn CD CO CD CO 1900 U 1685 /ANA W- AE s R__ M__0 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755 -5100 FAX (763) 755 -8923 • WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US March 5, 2010 Courtney Bednarz, Andover City Planner 1685 Crosstown Blvd. NW Andover, MN 55304 Re: Conditional Use Permit request for Public Works Salt Storage Facility Mr. Bednarz, Andover Public Works Division is requesting a Conditional Use Permit for the construction of a salt storage facility that would be located within the existing Public Works site. Please refer to the attached site layout. The height of the proposed structure exceeds the limits that are allowed by City Code for an R -1 zoning district (Maximum Height, Title 12- 3 -513). The conditional use would allow the structure to be a maximum height of 40 to 43 feet at the peak of the structure. Please refer to the attached picture. The height is needed to load and unload end dump trucks to store and transport road salt for the snow and ice removal process. Up to this point the City has partnered with the Anoka County Highway Department for road salt use which the cost has become non - beneficial to the City. If you have any questions regarding this request, please contact me at 763- 767 -5133. Sincerely, f✓...n . David D. Berkowitz, P.E. Director of Public Works /City Engineer H: \Engineering \City Projects \Open City ProjWs\10 -12 PW Salt Storage Facilrrty\DmRing \Salt Stomge2.dwg, 4/5/201092223 AM 0 a l tN M " i x L i l JW IV I ' A C I T Y O F ND OVE 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755 -5100 FAX (763) 755 -8923 • WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US TO: Planning and Zoning Commissioners FROM: Courtney Bednarz, City Plannet SUBJECT: PUBLIC HEARING: Discuss changes to City Code 5 -4 Weapons to consider changes to hunting regulations. DATE: April 13, 2010 INTRODUCTION Several issues with the current hunting regulations were identified during the 2009 hunting season. Since that time staff has also discussed the ordinance with property owners and hunters. Together these discussions generated the list of discussion items in this report. The Council has asked the Planning Commission to hold a public hearing to receive additional input as well as to discuss the issues and make recommendations. DISCUSSION The current ordinance and map are attached. Currently city regulations divide the city into three hunting zones. The attached map shows the boundaries of these areas and shows the minimum parcel size where hunting is permitted. The items that have been identified for discussion are as follows: 1. Clarification of Hunting Zones Currently the City Code has two identically named `Restricted Zones'. No clarification is provided in the text of the ordinance yet the map contains different regulations for each of these zones. Staff suggests that a distinct name be given to each zone and that the text of the City Code reinforce the map with the same regulations. 2. Revision of Zone Boundaries The boundaries have been adjusted several times since the first hand drawn map was introduced in 1982. In 2000, the restricted zone was divided into two parts to provide the additional restrictions for the southerly area that exist today. As the city has developed, several urban developments have again encroached into the hunting zones (see attached map). While parcel size and distance regulations prohibit hunting on smaller parcels, the city should also- periodically update the zone boundaries. The Commission is asked to discuss whether the boundaries should be adjusted at this time. 3. Updating of Definitions An Andover resident provided the attached draft ordinance to be of assistance in this process. The first suggestions (shown in red) come in the definitions section where modern forms of bows are added to the definition of bow and muzzleloader is added to the definition of rifle. The additions to the definition of bow add modern references that hunters will be familiar with. There is no issue with this addition. The second suggestion is more difficult. Muzzleloaders are not rifles. The state establishes a boundary below which rifle hunting is not permitted. Hunting with muzzleloaders is permitted below this line. The ordinance provides several opportunities to regulate the use of shotguns. The definitions section is not the place to prohibit this type of hunting by adding language that conflicts with state regulations. PARCEL SIZE. DISTANCE FROM HOMES AND OTHER LAND USES This section covers the various ways that hunting with shotguns and bows are regulated in relation to other features. Please note as you review them that they are interrelated. 4. Minimum Parcel Size for Hunting with Shotguns Currently 10 acres is the minimum parcel size for hunting with shotguns in the northerly restricted zone. Ten acres is also the minimum parcel size for hunting geese with shotgus in the southerly restricted zone. With the encroachment of residential developments the space between homes is less than it used to be when ten, twenty and forty acre parcels dominated the established hunting areas of the city. The question that has been raised is whether 10 acres remains sufficient in size to safely hunt with a shotgun. Most property owners that staff has discussed this issue with have indicated that they think this is too small. To illustrate, maps of both restricted zones are attached with a legend that shows what 40, 20, 10 and 2.5 acre parcels look like. With the map the Commission can see how the various parcel sizes are distributed throughout the city. Additionally, a newspaper article provided by an Andover resident is attached to show maximum range under perfect conditions. The draft ordinance provided by the resident suggests that 40 acres be the minimum parcel size for hunting deer with a shotgun throughout the city. The Commission is asked to discuss whether ten acres is sufficient in size to safely hunt deer or geese with a shotgun. 5. Minimum Firing Distance from Residences for Shotguns in Both Restricted Zones City Code 5 -4 -1 C. presently requires a minimum firing distance of 500 feet from residences for firearms in all hunting areas. While the range conditions described in the attached article are unlikely to be achieved in the field, 500 feet may not be a safe distance for hunting with shotguns, especially when yards may extend- closer and be used by a family for any number of activities. For the southerly restricted zone, City Code 5 -4 -1E. also requires a 1,320 foot (1/4 mile) minimum distance from any urban or rural development, park or institutional use. The draft ordinance amendment submitted by an Andover resident suggests this 1/4 mile regulation apply to deer hunting in all hunting areas. It also suggests a minimum of 1,000 feet from an urban development or institutional use and 500 feet from any roadway for goose hunting with shotguns. Staff suggests one distance from each of the features be consistent throughout the ordinance. 6. Minimum Parcel Size for Hunting with Bows in Restricted Zones Currently 2.5 acres is the minimum parcel size for hunting with bows in the restricted zones. No hunting with bows is allowed in the prohibited zone. The Commission is asked to discuss whether a 2.5 acre minimum parcel size is sufficient for safe hunting with bows. 7. Minimum Firing Distance From Residences for Bows in Both Restricted Zones City Code 5 -4 -1 C. presently requires a minimum firing distance of 150 feet from residences for bows. While arrows can travel significantly further than this distance, this type of hunting is usually done from an elevated position with discharges directed toward the ground. Additionally, few hunters would attempt to fire at a target more than 40 yards away. The Commission is asked to discuss if 150 feet is sufficient distance from residences for safely hunting with bows. 8. Prohibited Zone Some of the input staff has received centers on whether some hunting should be allowed on larger parcels in the prohibited zone. In one case a farm has issues with geese and some management of their population is needed. In looking at the rest of the prohibited zone on the map, there are few other areas that qualify under existing city regulations when Bunker Hills Regional Park, Andover Station North, the closed landfill, schools, Woodland Creek Golf Course and Kelsey Round Lake Park are removed. Staff suggests that hunting in the prohibited zone be allowed only under the exemption allowed by approval of the Council under City Code 5 -4 F. 2. 9. City Permit for Deer Hunting The City Code currently requires a city permit to hunt deer in the southerly restricted zone and limits who can hunt deer to property owners and immediate family members. This requirement was added to the City Code in 2000 in response to an issue discussed in the attached August 15, 2000 minutes. Most residents staff spoke with favor a city permit requirement for deer hunting and encouraged it to be expanded to include all areas where deer hunting is allowed in the city. Those in favor of requiring a permit for deer hunting indicate that it allows the city to keep track of who is hunting and ensures each hunter will get a copy of the regulations and map. Those opposed to this requirement felt property owners should know who is hunting on their land and call the sheriff's office if there are trespassers. Since this regulation was established in 2000, the city has issued issues one or two permits each year for the southerly restricted zone. The Commission is asked to discuss whether a permit to hunt deer should continue within the southerly restricted zone, be expanded to include all of the areas where deer hunting is allowed in the city or be eliminated altogether. 10. Immediate Family Restriction for Deer Hunting with Shotguns in the Southerly Restricted Zone Some input has been received that this is too restrictive. Please note that bow hunting of deer and hunting of geese in the southern restricted zone does not carry this same restriction. The only type of hunting that is limited to property owners and immediate family members in the southerly restricted zone is deer hunting with a shotgun. The Commission is asked to discuss whether this restriction should be maintained. I 11. Written Permission from 50% of Surrounding Landowners for Property Owner and Immediate Family Members to Qualify for a City permit in the Southerly Restricted Zone In the restricted Zone (south) the City Code currently also requires written permission from at least 50% of the surrounding landowners in addition to the limitiations on who can hunt, the 40 acre minimum parcel size and the 1/4 mile firing distance from urban developments, parks and institutional uses. The Commission is asked to discuss whether a property owner or relative should be required to obtain permission from their neighbors to hunt their own land. 12. Council Exemption and DNR Support The current ordinance gives the Council the authority to allow special hunts. However, the provision includes a stipulation that these hunts receive support from the DNR. In speaking with the DNR wildlife management office, they indicated that the DNR supports any hunting consistent with state law and would rather not be involved in the enforcement of local ordinances. Staff suggests that the reference to the DNR be changed to simply require compliance with state regulations. OTHER ISSUES The Commission is asked to seek public input and to discuss any items that are raised through the discussion. Attachments Hunting Map Urban Developments in Hunting Zones Prohibited Discharge Map — Restricted Zone North Prohibited Discharge Map — Deer Hunting in Restricted Zone South Prohibited Discharge Map — Goose Hunting in Restricted Zone South August 15, 2000 Minutes Article Provided by Resident Draft Ordinance Provided by Resident Summary of Other Cities Regulations City Code 5 -4 ACTION REQUESTED The Planning Commission is asked to hold a public hearing and discuss the issues listed above and any others that arise through the discussion. Additionally, the Commission is asked to continue the public hearing to allow a draft ordinance amendment to be brought back to the Planning Commission for additional public input before being forwarded to the Council. A i� _I - I ♦ ,i/ ► eI � v ms °eve leaf all mme �elnf�ly meat , t V®iBSL -tq ®� ®ism * x � AO' IMEW Li L B ®®®® sae _; I OR I mom MRIG WAIR Ea - ii f„ O® .t -- ®® lenlllln - �`. ®I ® ®9 ®9111 eu n® _ L- OWN III ® ��-� MUM o I'llMM muri ip L - °� Ullman pig IBM Mao ®® - - MI kown ow ®tea ® SIR ®® ®® ao r I,e to _ -I I Regular,4ndover City Council Meeting Minutes -August 15, 2000 Page 3 CO UNT Y SHER IFF MONTHL Y R EPOR T Serge Dave Seevert reported the Sheriff's Department has responded to 6,856 calls year -to -date, 1,092 of in July. The number of calls in July was higher than in June. In response to questions from the Co I, he stated the thefts generally go in streaks. It seems to move around; but when they hit, they t t an area. He wasn't personally aware of the problems surrounding the new Precision Tune, but will pass that on to the Department. PUBLIC HEARING: ADOPNS`SESSMENT ROLLIIP98- IIIJAY STREET NW Motion by Jacobson, Seconded by ORNL to open the public hearing. Motion carried on a 4 -Yes, 1- Absent (Knight) vote. 7:16 p.m. Mayor McKelvey noted a letter was received the Kottke Bus Company objecting to the purposed assessments. There was no public testimon Motion by Jacobson, Seconded by Johnson, to close the publt Baring. Motion carried on a 4 -Yes, I- Absent (Knight) vote. Councilmember Jacobson asked if the letter of objection needs to be m 'oned in the Resolution. Attorney Sullivan stated no, as it is noted in the Minutes and is in the pa ork: He assumed another objection will be received once the Council adopts the resolution. Motion by Orttel, Seconded by Jacobson, the Resolution as written with the assess is to be payable on or before the first Monday in January, 2001. (Resolution R175 -00 adop the assessment roll for the improvement of sanitary sewer, watermain, street and storm sewer, IP9 1, Jay Street NW) Motion carried on a 4 -Yes, 1- Absent (Knight) vote. MEND ORDINANCE N0.240, FIREARMBOW DISCIURGE Mr. Carlberg reviewed the proposed amendment to Ordinance No. 240 - An Ordinance Regulating the Discharge of Firearms and Bows. The amendment basically sets 161st Avenue NW as the boundary prohibiting the discharge of firearms and bows south of it except in restricted areas. He reviewed the map indicating where firearms would be permitted south of 161 st Avenue on parcels of land ten acres or more solely to shoot geese during the early Goose Season and waterfowl during the Waterfowl Season. Bow hunting would be permitted on parcels 2.5 acres or larger. The Commission was concerned with the overlap of the waterfowl season interfering with deer season. Some Commissioners felt a line should be drawn between the seasons. Those voting no were concerned with the shotguns used for waterfowl in the same area when deer bunting season is open. Waterfowl hunters wear camouflage; deer hunters wear blaze orange. The hunting seasons are established by the DNR and are not mentioned in the ordinance. Councilmember Orttel noted that Regular Andover City Council Meeting Minutes -August 15, 2000 Page 4 (Amend Ordinance No. 240, Firearm/Bow Discharge, Continued) issue has existed in the past. The reason for looking at the issue was not for the safety of the hunters but for the concerns of the neighbors and the fear of safety from bullets while in their yards. IVIr. Carlberg noted the proposed amendment was discussed with the Sheriff's Department. It was felt the enforcement will be better with a clearly defined boundary. The DNR has to approve the change, though they reviewed this and are in agreement with its enforceability. Councilmember Orttel stated the zones are being set up for the honest people. There are still jagged boundary lines, so he questioned the ease of enforcement. The only thing this does is limit deer hunting. The problem is in isolated properties and in areas adjacent to housing areas. The proposal makes it impossible for someone with 40 to 80 acres south of 161 st to hunt. He proposed establishing a system where those on 40 or more acres could get a permit from the City to hunt deer with guns if certain criteria is met. Only the landowner and/or his immediately family could hunt and permission would be needed from half of the neighbors. The police would be given maps showing where permits have been issued, thinking it wouldn't make it any harder to enforce. The City is rapidly approaching an overpopulation of deer, and the proposed amendment would not make a dent in that population. Larissa Amtz, 2381 155th - stated the petition has the support of three to four neighborhoods that border the farm area. The problem they are having is controlling people that are hunting. It is the poaching and hunters chasing wounded deer onto their private properties. She understood the idea of permits, but stated the City is growing. There is hunting where the new school is going in. A gentleman in Woodland Estates was hit while on his roof. Someone in Woodland Estates made the statement that looking out the bedroom window, they saw hunters coming from everywhere. She didn't understand how there could be hunting bordering those homes. Chris Hines 15260 Nightingale - worked on the farms for about 10 years and can see both sides. He agrees to some extent with the shot gun and slugs because they carry quite a distance. He agrees with the waterfowl hunting and agrees with Councilmember Orttel's suggestion for permits for large land owners to be able to hunt. He doesn't hunt geese any more because there are too many people. �there is a lot of agricultural damage caused by deer, so there is a need to keep them in check. Tony Howard, 2119 156th - stated the biggest thing is safety. He called Federal Cartridge today. The ordinance says 500 feet away from any structure. He'd like to see it changed. A three -inch slug will only fall two feet in 200 yards. He'd like to see it outlawed. He's okay with bow and arrow hunting to cut down the deer herd, because it is not as much of a safety issue. He was told if a slug is shot, it can travel 1,600 feet. A lot of the property is 100 to 200 feet to the back yards, so 500 feet in the ordinance isn't enough. He hoped the Council will not allow slug hunting, because nothing will stop it unless it hits a tree. He'd like to see the ordinance say to the property line, not to a structure. With the high school coming in, he'd hate to see an accident that could be prevented. He also learned that the shot for geese will travel 980 feet, so 500 feet from a structure for geese isn't enough either. Regular Andover City Council Meeting Minutes - August 15, 2000 Page 5 (Amend Ordinance No. 240, Firearm/Bow Discharge, Continued) Lee packer. 3074 161 st Avenue - preferred that either the 80 acres on the comer of Round Lake Boulevard and 161st be excluded or that some kind of permit be allowed. He is outside of the MUSA through the year 2020, and there are no plans to develop near his home. If that happens, he is open to restricting hunting on his land. Now he is surrounded by 80 acres east and peat to the south. He hunts only on his land and does not allow anyone else to hunt there because he doesn't feel safe with other hunters there. He'd be willing to ask anyone who signed the petition if he could hunt. He hunts on a stand and shoots toward the ground. The shells never leave his property line. The land has been in his family for many years. He realizes at some point he will not be able to hunt there, but that is not the case today. He requested the boundary be changed to allow him to hunt on his land or come up with a permitting process on 80 acres or more. Steve McGlover. 14909 University - has 80 acres in Andover and 110 acres in Ham Lake. They don't allow anyone else to hunt on their land. They do have a deer problem in there. More deer are killed in Anoka County by cars than by deer hunters. Last year they could shoot 5 deer per permit because of the overpopulation. They feel they should be able to help control the deer population. He never saw the petition. All of the concerns seem to be coming from the Round Lake area or west of there. He should be able to hunt on his land. He agrees with Councilmember Orttel's suggestion to get a permit. Goose hunters fire more shots than deer hunters, at least in his area. Don Bower. 14570 Jonquil - represented the goose hunters. They can hunt right across from where he lives. When hunting, they get permission and try to keep their shooting to the east. The emphasis is on safety first because they don't want anyone to get hurt. They get permission from Ken Slyzuk, which provides an opportunity to keep the geese population down. Regarding the overlapping season, waterfowl hunters are required to wear orange until they get to the blind, then they can take it off. The lake is generally frozen over and the geese gone when deer hunting season starts. He suggested a cheap $2 permit to know who is hunting out there. He hoped they will get the opportunity to keep hunting here. Mr. Carlberg stated there is nothing in place for the City to issue permits for hunters. Staff would have to do some investigation. He didn't think it would be an extensive process. Then the Sheriff's Department would have a record of those permits as well. Councilmember Jacobson was concerned with the suggestion of allowing deer hunting by permits below 161st Avenue, thinking it will create problems with enforcement. The ordinance amendment is for the safety of the people living in the houses nearby. The City is growing, and he felt what was presented by the Planning Commission is reasonable. He preferred the amendment as written, Councilmember Orttel reiterated his proposal to allow guns for deer hunting on the larger parcels, noting the safety concerns are both real and perceived. There are problems with both types of hunting. Goose hunting is perceived to be less dangerous, but both are dangerous. He also predicted there will still be people hunting whether its legal or not. They trespass. He liked the idea of permits for deer hunting only for landowners because that creates responsibility on their part of what happens Regular Andover City Council Meeting Minutes - August 15, 2000 Page 6 (Amend Ordinance No. 240, Firearm/Bow Discharge, Continued) out there. It is also a property rights issue. Plus, the proposed boundary between the hunting and no hunting areas is not straight. Adding the large parcels should not create any more confusion. Mayor McKelvey liked the idea of permitting the hunting of deer on the larger parcels, noting the problems with the large deer population in the City. Motion by Orttel, Seconded by Johnson, introducing the ordinance as prepared with the following amendment, that the City consider permitting deer hunting with shot gun slugs in the restricted goose hunting zones providing the following: on parcels over 40 acres in size; parcels whose borders are at least one - fourth mile from any urban type development, that being R -2, R -3 and R -4 or any multiple zones, and any governmental, institutional or educational buildings or churches; and that the hunting be limited to the owner and the owner's family; and that the owners would get a permit at least 30 days prior to the start of hunting and they would state who would be hunting and an exact description of the property and would be accompanied by signed permission from over 50 percent of the property owners adjacent to the subject property. DISCUSSION: Mr. Carlberg stated they will do some research on fees and permits and come back to the Council. Mr. Fursman didn't think there would be that many permits. Councilmember Orttel thought maybe the permit should be for the land itself so it is more enforceable. Councihnember Johnson suggested the possibility of issuing permits for goose hunting on 10 acres of more as well. Mr. Carlberg stated the season starts September 2, so that would have to be considered for next year. Motion carried on a 3 -Yes, I -No (Jacobson, thinking the permit makes it over complicated, preferring the original proposal instead as it is more easily understandable), I- Absent (Knight) vote. APPROVE VARIANCE ([TAR 00- 16)IFRONTAGE ON ROAD/LOT WIDTHISECTION 121WOJCIECHOWSIU Mr. Carlberg reviewed the request of Peter and Marian Wajciechowski to vary from the lot frontage requirement for a buildable lot and from the lot width at the front setback on property located in the NE 114 of the NW 114 of Section 12. The Planning Commission discussed ways to avoid the variance but determined the applicant is not able to acquire adjacent land, that the applicant did not become aware that the lot was not legally buildable until about six months ago, that the Iand has been valued as a landlocked parcel created in 1980 and has been taxed at a reduced rate, that future development of adjacent land may create access but that there are no development plans in the foreseeable future; that a stub to this parcel was not provided when the property to the southwest was developed in the early 1999s; that prohibiting development of a 40 -acre buildable parcel appears to be a severe restriction and that a similar variance was granted in 1997 for a lot along the Rum River. The Commission recommended the driveway standards be required, including a Class V surface and minimum 16 -foot clear zone with adequate drainage ditches to provide adequate ingress and egress for emergency vehicles. There was a question that a portion of the present access easement may be subject to wetland regulations, but the applicant has indicated the easement could be reconfigured to avoid the wetland. The Planning Commission generally agreed with the variances but left it open The "safe" slug myth: shotgun slugs are required in some areas, but why? I Guns Magazine I Find... Page 1 of 3 • Find Articles in: • All • Business • Reference ow Technology • Lifestyle • Newspaper Collection Sports Publications o Comments The "safe" slug myth: shotgun slugs are required in some areas, but why? Guns Magazine, Nov, 2007 by Holt Bodinson The shotgun slug is less safe and more dangerous in the field than a 150 grain .30 -06 bullet or a 507caliber muzzleloading projectile. Does that statement sound improbable? Conventional wisdom would say so. I've just finished digesting a 67-page technical report commissioned by the Pennsylvania Legislative Budget and Finance Committee that blows a hole in conventional wisdom and the increasing establishment of shotgun - slug -only zones by state's game agencies. What prompted the study? A lawsuit involving a hunting accident in which a woman sitting in a car was struck by a stray rifle bullet coupled with increasing sportsmen's opposition to the expansion of shotgun slug and muzzleloading -only zones on the decision of the Pennsylvania Game Commission. When the professional staff of the Game Commission questioned other states with about their slug policies, they found no state had any definitive safety data to support the decision to restrict zones to shotgun slugs. Quoting from the report, They found in the shotgun -only states, this appears to be an issue driven by emotion and politics rather than sound scientific data." The Army Weighs In The research firm, Mountaintop Technologies, conducted the resulting outside - contracted study. Its prime subcontractor was the US Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center at the Picatinny Arsenal. hq://findaideles.com/p/ardeles/mi-MOBQY/is-I 1 53 /ai n20512665/ 12/15/2009 The "safe" slug myth: shotgun slugs are required in some areas, but why? I Guns Magazine I Find... Page 2 of 3 [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The Picatinny research team used the concept of Surface Danger Zones to compare the relative risk performance of three projectiles: a 15o -grain SP fired from a .3o -o6 with a muzzle velocity of 2,910 fps, a 385 - grain, 12- gauge, 50- caliber sabot load with a hollowpoint, semi - spitzer projectile at 1,9oo fps and, for the muzzleloaders, a 348 - grain, 50- caliber CVA Powerbelt projectile at 1,595 fps. The March 2007 study looked at the maximum range a projectile would reach at various firing angles of elevation plus the distance the projectile would ricochet after impacting the ground. The data is intriguing. At a maximum firing angle of elevation of 35- degrees, the rifle, shotgun and muzzleloader projectiles travel 13,926',10,378', and 9,197' respectfully. Because of the angle of descent, there are no ricochets. At a firing angle of 10- degrees, the rifle, shotgun and muzzleloader projectiles travel 10,004', 7,163' and 6,247' respectfully plus additional ricochet distances of 702', 949' and 913' respectfully. Ah, but the big surprise comes at o- degrees of elevation which would be more or less a typical shot at a deer on level terrain. Here the rifle, shotgun and muzzleloader projectiles travel 1,4o8', 840', and 686' respectfully plus ricochet distances of 3,427', 4,365, and 3,812' respectfully. Now the total distances traveled by the projectiles are 4,835 for the rifle, 5,205' for the shotgun and 4,498' for the muzzleloader. "The smaller cross sectional area of the .3o- caliber projectile and its shape contributes to a higher loss of energy on impact and, after ricochet, the 3o- caliber projectile tends to tumble in flight with a high drag. Test data confirm that the 50- caliber projectile's larger cross sectional area and its shape contribute to less energy loss on shallow angles of impact and, after ricochet, the projectile exhibits less drag which results in a greater total distance traveled. [ILLUSTRATIONS OMITTED] "It is recommended the Pennsylvania Game Commission address the public perception a shotgun with modern high - velocity ammunition is less risky than centerfire rifles in all circumstances ... Frangible, or reduced ricochet, projectiles for hunting firearms should be investigated as an alternative to the mandatory use of shotguns or muzzleloaders." Far Reaching I think the effect of this study may be far reaching and it's why I have covered it in such detail. State game agencies tend to talk to one another and, indeed, tend to copy each other's regulations. It will be interesting to see what impact this study may have on http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi—mO,BQY/is-1 1 53 /ai n20512665/ 12/15/2009 The "safe" slug myth: shotgun slugs are required in some areas, but why? I Guns Magazine I Find... Page 3 of 3 present or future slug -only zones and on shotgun slug design itself. The answer may be in making the shotgun slug more frangible. Slug design is increasingly taking on the structure and composition of a jacketed bullet. Looking at the design of the new xp3 Winchester, the Hornady SST, and Federal Fusion slugs, it's clear we are already there. They're built like jacketed bullets, and they upset and expand like jacketed bullets. They're the finest rifled shotgun slugs we've ever had plus muzzle velocities keep increasing with every passing year. I'm sure the major ammunition companies are studying this groundbreaking report from Pennsylvania with keen interest. Knowing them as I do, they will have a solution to slug ricochet problem within months so stay tuned. COPYRIGHT 2007 Publishers' Development Corporation COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning _ tf _, http: / /findarticles.com/p /articles /mi mOBQY /is ll_53 /ai n20512665/ 12/15/2009 • Tony Howard's proposed changes (in Red) CHAPTER4 WEAPONS SECTION: 5 -4 -1: Discharge Of Weapons 5 -4 -1: DISCHARGE OF WEAPONS: A. Definitions: The followiing definitions shall apply in the interpretation and enforcement of this section: BOW: All long, Compound or Crossbow bows used for target and hunting purposes as regulated and defined by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 9713. FIREARM: Shotguns and (pellet weapons, whether CO2 or pneumatic powered. HANDGUN: A hand held weapon with a rifled barrel and discharging a single shot or pellet at a time. IMMEDIATE FAMILY: All persons related to the landowner that shall include the children, grandchildren and their spouses. RIFLE or Muzzlefoader. A. shoulder weapon with a long bored barrel er- barrels and discharges irg a single shot or pellet at a time. SHOTGUN: A shoulder weapon wilh a smooth bored barrel or barrels and nommily diisccfh+ Tyesjk& mom #ban one ,pellet at a time, except when Using a single slug. (Amended Ord. 240,10-6- 1998, eff. 1 -1 -1999; amd. 2003 Code) B. Compliance Witlh Provdisions: No person shall discharge at any time a firearm or bow upon or onto any land (or property within the city except as provided by this section. C. Prohibited Discharges:: 1. No person shall discharge a firearm within five hundred feet (500') of any residence or a bow within one hundred fifty feet (150') of any residence. 2. No person shall discharge a pelteied firearm within five hundred feet (500') of any roadway. 3. No person shall discharge a pelleted firearm within one thousand feet (1000') of any institutional use property line. 4. No Pamm, slhialil dl"i r a pelWhad firearmm within one thousand feet (1000') of any urban development's property line. 5. No person shall discharge a pelleted firearnn within five hundred (500') of any rural developments property line. 6. No person shall discharge a firearm or bow on public property owned or operated by the city, county, state or sc.lhool district. 7. The discharge of a weapon Fifle OF handgUrt utilizing a solid projectile shall not be allowed within the city excerpt in .permitted areas. D. Permitted Discharges; Restrictions: 1. Written permission by the property owner shall be given to any person prior to the discharge of a firearm or bow on his /her property. 2. When recreational target shooting is conducted, the projectile shall be directed at a target with a backstop of siufficient strength and density to stop and control the projectile. 3. When discharging a firearm or bow, the projectile shall not carry beyond the property line. (Amended Ord. 240, 110 -6 -1998, eff. 1 -1 -1999) E. Permit to Hunt Deer with firearms: 1. Permit Required: An indlividual aarmal eF seasonal permit is required by the city for the discharge of firearms fbr the purpose of hunting deer with a shotgun (slug only)4n A map of designated permitted areas of the city a -131 --- AFR on the map attaGhe OrdinaMe 249 which erdiinance is on file in the office of the City Clerk for public use and inspection. Said map and tthe langua"ntained and stated on the rnap-shall-beGGFne F. Restrictions: a) Hunting deer shall only occur on parcells greater than forty (40) acres in size. b) Hunting shall only be allowed for landowners or immediate family members. c) Hunting shall occur no closer than (114;;) mile from any urban or rural development, park or institutional use. d) Consent of Property Owners; A reques4t for such permit shall be accompanied by written permission from fifty percent (50%) or more of the adjacent landowners. Land owner written permission must include parcel designation. e) Time Limit on Acquiinng Permit: Permits shall be obtained from the city thirty (30) days prior to the opening day of firearm deer season as established by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. f) Conditions of Issuance: Such permit shall only be issued under the terms consistent with this section and all applicable state and federal laws and regulations concerning the hunting of deer via firearm. (Amended Ord. 240, 10 -6- 1998, eff. 1- ,I- 1999';; amd. 2003 Code) F. Exemptions from Prowlsions: 1. The provisions of this section shall not apply to the discharge of firearms, rifles or handguns when done in the lawful defense of persons or property. No part of this section is intended to abridge the constitutional right to keep and bear arms. 2. The City Council may approve an exemption to this section to allow the discharge of firearms and bows for the sole purpose of managing and controlling wildlife populations, provided the hunt has reedived the support from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. G. Violation; Penalty: Any/ person who violates any provision guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall b e state law. (Amended Ord. 240, 10 -6 -1998, eff. 1 -1 -1999) of this section shall be punished according to Other Cities Hunting Regulations Ramsey Sec. 34 -21. - Weapons. (a) Discharge prohibited. Except as hereinafter provided, no person shall fire or discharge any gun, pistol or firearm of any description within the limits of the city. (b) Protection of home and family. Nothing in this section shall be construed to embrace the possession of a firearm within the home or the discharge of the same when done in the lawful defense of person, family or property. (c) Discharge of firearms. The owner or tenant or persons having written authorization of such owner or tenant may, upon the land of the owner or the owner's tenant, discharge firearms in hunting wild game in accordance with the laws of the state. However, discharge of firearms shall not be permitted within 1,500 feet of any residential dwelling or other structure, park or playground. In addition, shotguns using no larger than size 6 shot and non -lead shall be the only type of firearm permitted to be discharged in any area of the city. (d) Permit to hunt. A permit to hunt wild game with a firearm as an exception to this section may be issued by the police chief. The police chief shall be granted the authority to administer the permit process. (e) Use of bows and arrows. The use of a bow and arrow for hunting purposes shall be permitted in the city in hunting wild game in accordance with the laws of the state. However, bow and arrow hunting shall not be permitted within 500 feet of any residential dwelling or other structure, park or playground and said hunting shall not be permitted within 500 feet of any trunk highway. M Permits for bow and arrow hunting. A permit for bow and arrow hunting shall be required prior to such hunting in the city. Applicants for a bow and arrow hunting permit shall apply to the city police chief or his designated representative. The police chief shall be granted the authority to administer the permit. Permits shall be issued only for the period of the state bow and arrow annual deer hunting season. (Code 1978, § 5.07; Ord. No. 73 -10, 8 -20 -1973; Ord No. 73 -14; Ord. No. 83 -15; Ord. No. 05 -26, 11 -14 -2005; Ord. No. 08 -06, § 2, 2 -12 -2008) Oak Grove The City of Oak Grove has no local hunting regulations and defers to the standards created by the DNR. Other Cities Hunting Regulations Blaine The City of Blaine has only allowed bow hunting for many years. The information is shown below and the most recent hunting map is attached. Blaine Sets New Boundaries for 2009 Bow and Arrow Deer Hunting Area The City of Blaine has set the below boundaries for the 2009 bow and arrow deer hunting season. The State of Minnesota has established the dates for the hunting season as running from September 19, 2009 through December 31, 2009. Persons wishing to hunt must contact a landowner within the designated hunting areas. There is no huntiniz allowed on park property or city -owned property. Property owners within the designated hunting areas who wish to allow hunting on their land are required to give written permission to the hunter. Persons hunting on designated property must have in "their immediate possession ", the written permission of the property owner allowing them to hunt and identification. Persons found hunting in the areas without a written note from the landowner are subject to fines up to $750 and/or 90 days in jail, as well as confiscation of their equipment. Hunters would still need to obtain all the required State of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources Hunting Licenses and follow all of the State laws, rules and regulations regarding bow and arrow hunting for deer. Those wishing further information may contact the Blaine Police Department at 763 - 785 -6132. A map of the designated approved hunting area is available upon request and a copy is posted on the "Legal Notices" board in the Blaine City Hall. Ham Lake You cannot discharge a firearm within the City of Ham Lake on, onto or across any property unless you own the property or have written permission from the owner and are a minimum of 500 feet from any dwelling. If you have further questions, please contact City Hall at (763) 434- 9555 or read the complete ordinance regarding the discharge of firearms. Source: Article 3, 3 -200 3 -200 Discharge of Firearms (1) Except as permitted in subsection (2) below, no person shall discharge a firearm upon, onto, or across any "Prohibited Areas" within the City of Ham Lake. No person shall discharge an arrow from a bow upon, onto, or across any Prohibited Area within the City of Ham Lake. "Prohibited Area" shall include the following: a) The outside perimeter of all platted subdivisions, including auditor's plats; b) The outside perimeter of all areas of residential concentration in which lots have been created by metes and bounds, and which have been identified by the Zoning Administrator as the equivalent of platted areas; c) All schools and churches, measured from the lot lines of the parcel upon which the school or church is situated; d) The outside perimeter of all City or County parks; Other Cities Hunting Regulations e) The traveled portion of any public road. (2) Notwithstanding the foregoing, firearms and bows and arrows may be discharged upon, onto or across Prohibited Areas described in Article 3- 200(1)(a) and (b), under the following conditions: a) The person is the owner or lessor of, or has the written permission of the landowner who owns the land upon which the firearm or bow and arrow is discharged, the land upon which the projectile comes to rest, or the land over which the projectile passes; b) The person discharging the firearm or bow and arrow is in actual possession of the written permission documents at the time of discharging the device, and c) The discharge of the firearm or bow and arrow does not occur within 500 feet of any residential dwelling, unless the permission documentation referred to in item 2(a) above specifically permits discharge within 500 feet of the dwelling. (3) In areas which are not Prohibited Areas, persons may discharge firearms or bows and arrows, but only under the same conditions as are listed in Article 3- 200(2)(a), (b) and (c). (4) The provisions of paragraphs (1), (2) and (3) of this section do not apply to the discharge of firearm by law enforcement officers while performing their duties. (5) The term "firearm" as used in this section includes pistols, rifles, revolvers, shotguns as well as all pellet guns, whether gas explosive or spring powered, BB guns and all other devices or weapons which propel a projectile of any sort. (6) The Zoning Administrator of the City shall cause the preparation of a map of the City, at a scale of one inch = 500 feet, which displays the locations of the Prohibited Areas identified in Article 3 -200 (1)(a)(b)(c) and (d), and which also bears the following Legend: NOTICE: SUBJECT TO CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS DETAILED IN THE HAM LAKE CITY CODE, THE DISCHARGER OF FIREARMS AND BOWS AND ARROWS IS PROHIBITED UPON, ONTO OR ACROSS THE AREAS IDENTIFIED AS "PROHIBITED AREAS" ON THIS DISPLAY, AND SUCH DISCHARGES ARE FURTHER PROHIBITED WITHIN 500 FEET OF ANY DWELLING WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE DWELLING OWNER. PERMISSION OF THE LANDOWNER TO DISCHARGE FIREARMS OR BOWS AND ARROWS IS REQUIRED AT ALL TIMES. The map so prepared, as periodically updated, shall be available for inspection at City Hall during normal business hours, and shall also be posted in three conspicuous places within the City between September 1 and December 1 of each other Cities Hunting Regulations year. 7) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections 1 through 6, inclusive, of Article 3- 200, it shall be unlawful for any person to discharge a gun, pistol, shotgun or rifle for the purpose of target practice, including the terms clay pigeon shooting, skeet shooting, trap shooting, gun- sighting or other recreational shooting not aimed at actual game, except under the following conditions: a) The activity is carried out on premises which have a conditional use permit for the activity; or b) The activity is carried out on premises and under conditions which meet the criteria outlined in Article 3 -200 (2) of this Code, and i) The activity is limited to no more than two sessions every thirty days; and -ii) The activity takes place between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., and iii) The activity introduces no lead shot onto any wetland which has been so designated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 1.110 Nor h lCit, y Limits ... ...... .. .... ........ ........ .... ......... . ..... hp ...... ... . ..... Hj .. ........ . ..... . ..... .. ......... ------- ---- ------- . ....... ij FA...... . ...... - . ... ..... ......... .. - - — - -------- .. .......... ...... . ..... . ........... .. . . ........ . . ............ ......... ... . ...... . .. . . ......... ........ ... ........ ... .......... ... . . .. PA i,u 6z ..... . ...... ........ . ®. rzrtnv P 1:ii I 125th A)ienu6 I main Street ,ter T .... . ...... ... ...... . .. ......... . ............. ..Ni roue R 1,0 0 . ........ . x .. ............... . . ... VV ................ . .. ..... ........... . . .. ....... . .... ..... . .... ...... .......... .. . ......... ... .... Y", I.— �Q j. ....... ...... . . ....... LOCILNESS z,� PARK V11, ... . ........... . Jf ..... ..... . . ........ ....... . . . ........ ....... . . . .. . .... .. moo Q.i ... ... . . ..... N J 2009 BOW AND ARROW DEER HUNTING BOUNDARIES CHAPTER 4 WEAPONS SECTION: 5 -4 -1: Discharge Of Weapons 5 -4 -1: DISCHARGE OF WEAPONS: A. Definitions: The following definitions shall apply in the interpretation and enforcement of this section: BOW: All long bows used for target and hunting purposes as regulated and defined by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 97B. FIREARM: Shotguns and pellet weapons, whether CO2 or pneumatic powered. HANDGUN: A hand held weapon with a rifled barrel and discharging a single shot or pellet at a time. IMMEDIATE FAMILY: All persons related to the landowner that shall include the children, grandchildren and their spouses. RIFLE: A shoulder weapon with a long bored barrel or barrels and discharging a single shot or pellet at a time. SHOTGUN: A shoulder weapon with a smooth bored barrel or barrels and normally discharging more than one pellet at a time, except when using a single slug. (Amended Ord. 240, 10 -6- 1998, eff. 1 -1 -1999; amd. 2003 Code) B. Compliance With Provisions: No person shall discharge at any time a firearm or bow upon or onto any land or property within the city except as provided by this section. C. Prohibited Discharges: 1. No person shall discharge a firearm within five hundred feet (500') of any residence or a bow within one hundred fifty feet (150') of any residence. 2. No person shall discharge a firearm or bow on public property owned or operated by the city, county, state or school district. 3. The discharge of a rifle or handgun utilizing a solid projectile shall not be allowed within the city. D. Permitted Discharges; Restrictions: 1. Written permission by the property owner shall be given to any person prior to the discharge of a firearm or bow on his /her property. 2. When recreational target shooting is conducted, the projectile shall be directed at a target with a backstop of sufficient strength and density to stop and control the projectile. 3. When discharging a firearm or bow, the projectile shall not carry beyond the property line. (Amended Ord. 240, 10 -6 -1998, eff. 1 -1- 1999) E. Permit To Hunt Deer: 1. Permit Required: An individual annual or seasonal permit is required by the city for the discharge of firearms for the purpose of hunting deer with a shotgun (slug only) in designated areas of the city as shown on the map attached to Ordinance 240 which ordinance is on file in the office of the City Clerk for public use and inspection. Said map and the language contained and stated on the map shall become part of this section. Discharge of firearms in these areas requires a city permit and shall occur no closer than one - quarter (1/4) mile from any urban development, park or institutional use. (Amended Ord. 240, 10 -6 -1998, eff. 1 -1 -1999; amd. 2003 Code) 2. Consent Of Property Owners: A request for such permit shall be accompanied by written permission from fifty percent (50 %) or more of the adjacent landowners. 3. Time Limit On Acquiring Permit: Permits shall be obtained from the city thirty (30) days prior to the opening day of firearm deer season as established by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 4. Conditions Of Issuance: Such permit shall only be issued under the terms consistent with this section and all applicable state and federal laws and regulations concerning the hunting of deer via firearm. F. Exemptions From Provisions: 1. The provisions of this section shall not apply to the discharge of firearms, rifles or handguns when done in the lawful defense of persons or property. No part of this section is intended to abridge the constitutional right to keep and bear arms. 2. The City Council may approve an exemption to this section to allow the discharge of firearms and bows for the sole purpose of managing and controlling wildlife populations, provided the hunt has received the support from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. G. Violation; Penalty: Any person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished according to state law. (Amended Ord. 240, 10 -6 -1998, eff. 1- 1 -1999)