(Spirit Lake)– The Dickinson county Planning and Zoning Commission voted six-to-one Monday in favor of recommending the board of supervisors approve a rezoning request for Don and Nancy Yarns for land they own in the Sandbar Beach area on the northeast side of Big Spirit Lake.
The Yarns requested the rezoning to allow for a residential development. It’s drawn opposition from environmentalists and the D-N-R concerned that it will negatively impact the last remaining stand of vegetation known for its ability to enhance water quality and improve fish habitat.
Kirk Qwinn, an attorney for the Yarns, said they’ve gone out of their way to incorporate low impact development components in their plans, including bio-retention cells and rain gardens on each of the 35 lots. He said it isn’t fair to hold the Yarns responsible for protecting water quality in light of all the other development that’s been allowed to take place in the lakes area.
The P & Z voted six-to-one to recommend the supervisors approve the rezoning. Commission member Bill Eich cast the lone no vote.
Another motion to recommend the supervisors approve a preliminary plat for the Sand Bar Farm Subdivision was unanimously approved.
