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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-04-07 Work Session Minutes Minutes of Board of Commissioners’ Work Session Monday, April 7, 2010 Page 2 of 5 Pages Mr. Bedsaul stated that many of the calls he has gotten are from dealers, but a few were from property owners that may be interested. Commissioner Luke said that many people do not want to have to look at telecommunications towers, and there may be issues with windmills as well. Mr. Bedsaul said that Polk County is the only county that has gone through the process. The others do not regulate scenic views or potential noise in this way. DEQ standards for noise are at 60 db. He said it is hard to explain exactly what kind of noise that is. Commissioner Unger likes that people are interested in alternative energy, and would like to see this investigated further. Mr. Bedsaul stated that lighting is generally not allowed nor required. Any of the resource zones might be appropriate. Commissioner Luke said that MUA and RR-10 lots might be just an acre in size and it probably would not be appropriate. Mr. Bedsaul indicated that lot size could be a criteria. Recommendations for the best results are 35 feet above obstructions, so it could be 65 feet or taller. Commissioner Baney would like to have a path to have this go forward, but restrictions are obviously needed. Commissioner Unger stated that no one would want to pay $5,000 for an application fee for this, as it would not be cost effective. Commissioner Luke asked why homes are limited to 30 feet tall. Mr. Bedsaul replied it is due to fire protection laws. If the fire department has a hook and ladder truck, homes could be taller. Discussion occurred regarding distance from other property, or the same as is used for cellular towers – requiring more distance relative to height. Dave Kanner suggested starting with a ten-acre minimum lot size. Include an exemption for small turbine to allow for this to be pursued, and any concerns can be identified. A chart will make it a lot easier for people to understand. They will bring something to the Planning Commission and proceed from there. Commissioner Baney asked that any people who have expressed an interest in this issue be notified that it will be addressed. Mr. Bedsaul is retiring from the County, and this item will be incorporated into the Community Development work plan. Minutes of Board of Commissioners’ Work Session Monday, April 7, 2010 Page 4 of 5 Pages Commissioner Unger liked Mr. Stenman because he has a lot of natural resource knowledge. However, Mr. Powell has dealt a lot with natural resource and especially water issues locally. He has been in the community longer and has more experience in what has happened locally. Other Planning Commissioners have been in the area for a while but this has not necessarily been beneficial. Commissioner Unger suggested that Mr. Powell might be the best choice. Commissioner Baney likes the fact that Mr. Powell has a natural history background but also appears to be well balanced. The Board decided that Mr. Powell is the first choice, and Mr. Stenman would be the next choice. They would like to find out if it is possible to have an ex officio member, perhaps for the at large positions or Bend positions. The positions are defined by townships and population. The two positions coming up for renewal are those held by Klyce and Cyrus. Commissioner Baney asked if it is realistic to extend the term of Mr. Cyrus given that the larger projects, including the comprehensive plan, will likely not be done within that period of time. Commissioner Luke said that he feels there are some very good minds on the Commission, even though he may not always agree with them. 3. Other Items. Mr. Kanner will be gone the end of June to attend a family wedding. _________________________________ The Commissioners agreed that they want Mr. Lelack to continue being involved in the destination resort issue at the State level as much as he can, even if just to monitor what is happening, as it has huge ramifications on Central Oregon. The Association of Oregon Counties is also involved in this issue. Commissioner Baney would like to be appointed to the committee addressing this issue. Commissioner Luke said that there is likely a policy committee and a planning committee. There will be a lot of private interest, from wineries to developers and Realtors; more than just government. Mr. Lelack said that he tries not to weigh in on policy, but instead wants to pass on the technical information and potential ramifications of various actions so that others are aware.