NU Planning Commission looks at land use

Adult use

businesses

would be on

edges of town

By FRITZ BUSCH

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- The New Ulm Planning Commission discussed the status of adult entertainment land use regulations at its Thursday meeting.

City Planner Dave Schnobrich unrolled a large map of New Ulm and explained recommended ordinance provisions that would control where adult entertainment businesses could be located.

Recommended provisions would allow such businesses only in B-2 (Service Business) districts. Buffers or setback distances of 430 feet (about one city block and the width of a street) would be located in zoning where residential uses are specifically listed.

Setbacks would also be required near licensed day care centers, schools, libraries, parks and other recreation facilities, other adult use businesses, churches and church-related organizations and on-sale liquor, wine or beer establishments.

In a nutshell, adult use businesses would be allowed in the northwest corner of town and on the south edge, near the Big Cottonwood River.

"We debated long and hard on this," said City Building Inspector Al Gag.

Commissioner Dan Braam said it was important to handle adult use business areas right so the City won't be challenged down the road.

Commissioner Bob Beussman congratulated the staff on its detailed work.

Braam said he's confident the City will get a good ordinance to deal with the issue that go back to the City Council for review and resolution adoption.

The Commission approved an amendment to the fence ordinance that will require a permit for a fence permit as established by ordinance or resolution of the City Council.

The Commission elected Braam Chairman and Beussman Vice Chairman.