The Fillmore County Planning Commission met on November 17 to consider an application for a conditional use permit for auctions in the Agricultural District.
Chairman Trinity Johnson opened the public hearing for an application submitted by Enos and Emma Hershberger, section 18 of Canton Township. This conditional use permit application is considered under Section 604.03(13) of the county’s ordinance. This section is for the Agricultural District, and it allows under (13) “Commercial or industrial uses primarily intended to serve agriculture.” Zoning Administrator Cristal Adkins explained auctions are not a prohibited activity. She admitted the application is not a perfect fit, but approval of the conditional use permit will allow the commission to require conditions.
The proposed auction site is located in a shed at the end of Hershberger’s driveway off of 130th Street. Hershberger explained they hoped to have two or three auctions per year.
Members of the commission had looked at the site which will provide off-road parking. Adkins said this is a better site than where current auctions are held, as there will be no need for parking on a township road. Duane Bakke said off-road parking should be a condition.
It was noted that the permit will allow more than two or three auctions a year and it will stay with the property if it changes hands, unless an owner asks that the permit be removed.
Steve Duxbury asked about requiring outhouses. Hershberger said they intend to bring in porta potties.
There were no comments from township officers or the public.
The commission unanimously recommended approval of the conditional use permit with two conditions. 1) Off road parking must be provided. 2) Bathroom facilities (of some kind) must be provided.
The county board will consider approval of this conditional use permit during their December 6 meeting.
The next meeting of the Planning Commission and/or Board of Adjustment is scheduled for December 15.