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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-18-97 City Of Lakeville • PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES September 18, 1997 The September 18, 1997 Planning Commission meeting was called to order by Vice-Chair Amborn at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers. .Roll call of members was. taken: Present: Miller, Kot, Amborn, Cecchini. Absent: Wanner, Rieb, Wulff, Alternate Membertuick, Ex-Officio Bellows. Also present:. Robert Erickson, City Administrator; Michael Sobota, Community and Economic Development Director; Frank Dempsey, Associate Planner; Tim Hanson, Assistant City Engineer; Jim Walston, Assistant City Attorney; and. Donna Quintus, Recording Secretary. The minutes of the September 4, 1997 Planning Commission Meeting were approved as ..presented. ITEM 5: PUBLIC HEARING: Jil Ocel: Conditional Use Permit Vice-Chair Amborn reconvened the public hearing continued from the September 4,1997 Planning Commission meeting for consideration of .the application of Jil Ocel for a conditional use permit to keep non-domestic animals. Associate Planner Frank Dempsey noted that after receiving. public comment at their last meeting the Planning Commission continued the public hearing for consideration of the application from Ji1 Oeel fora conditional use permit to allow her to keep non-domestic animals in her .home located at 17113 Frazer Path. At that meeting, a resident expressed strong opposition to Ms. Ocel's request and indicated she represented the opinions of several of her neighbors. In response to a recommendation from Assistant City Attorney Jim Walston, Ms. Ocel agreed to the continuation of the public hearing to allow her the opportunity to hold a neighborhood meeting to address concerns raised by her neighbors related to her business and the animals she proposes to house within her residence. .Planner Dempsey stated. he and Council Member Lynette Mulvihill attended the neighborhood meeting, hosted by )il and Matt Ocel, held on September 10, 1997 at Fire Station #2. Representatives offive households located within .the Ocel neighborhood were in attendance. Comments of the residents in attendance focused on .public safety, security of the animals, and assurances that the number of permitted animals would not increase in the future. There was a general consensus of three households represented who expressed opposition to the proposal and that they were specifically opposed to the request to house two Burmese Pythons. !n response to concerns expressed by both the Planning Commission and the residents, Assistant Planner Dempsey stated that staff has incorporated additional stipulations in the draft Conditional Use Permit. Issues addressed include added conditions for safety measures, • emergency response procedures, and operator licensing requirements. Current staff recommendations for approval of the Conditional Use Permit omits the snakes from the list of animals permitted to be housed at the Ocel residence and. other minor modifications as listed in the September 12, 1997 Planner's Report. Regular Planning Commission Meeting Minutes September 18, 1997 Page 2 • At this time, a short educational wildlife video that had been shown at the neighborhood meeting was shown for the Planning Commissioners and other residents present at this public hearing. )il and Matt Ocel .presented 12 letters addressed to the Planning Commission from animal. specialists, veterinary clinics/hospitals, former employers and supervisors, fellow employees, an environmental. educator, and the City of Bloomington where a temporary conditional use permit for the keeping o#non-domesticated animals is currently active. The correspondence generally provided support for the Ocel's request by attesting to )iI Ocel's credentials, professionalism, expertise, and reliability in working wrth and managing animals. Additional information was provided. regarding the positive characteristics of snakes as opposed to the perceived image of snakes by the general public. The Commission directed that these letters be filed as part of the official .record for this hearing. Mr. and Mrs.. Ocel indicated that they were in general agreement to the conditions recommended by staff except that they requested-the two pythons be added back on the draft Conditional Use Permit's list of approved animals. Vice hair Amborn opened the hearing. to receive public comment. Mr. Scott Schreiner, 171.12 Forbes Court, presented a petition with 20 signatures from area residents indicating opposition to the requested Conditional lJse Permit. Mr. Schreiner noted that he poor attendance at the neighborhood meeting did not accurately represent the sentiment of the majority of the neighbors, The Planning Commission directed that the petition be filed as .part of the official record. for this hearing. Mr. Schreiner expressed :his opinion that the keeping of non-domestic animals is inappropriate in a residential neighborhood because it will subject area residents to risks and safety issues that they should not .have to confront. Mr. Schreiner also indicated .his belief that the proposed .home occupation/conditional. use permit would adversely affect the market value of properties in this neighborhood. Michael. Tackaberry,_17104 Tarbes. Court, indicated his opposition to the proposal and expressed his concern for safety with regard to the proposal to house two pythons within a residential: neighborhood. Mr. Tackaberry further noted that the current Zoning Ordinance does not address the housing/keeping of animals in a commercial district. Mary Frazier, 17170 Franchise Way, stated that her opposition to the Ocel proposal was based on impacts on property values, the potential for this type of home occupation to attract unwanted sightseersJdelinquentb~havior, the inability of theapplicant to guarantee there is no danger of escape of the animals, and her past experience that home occupations generate increased traffic, including delivery trucks. Ms. Frazier indicated that the proposed business is not well-suited for residential areas and that this use should be directed to commercial or rural areas. Ms. Irene Sherer, 171A6 Forbes Court, reiterated her comments made at the September 4, 1997 • public hearing and expressed her agreement with the residents' previously stated objections to the proposed home occupation/conditional. use permit. Mr. Terry Johnson, 17110 Forbes Court, expressed his concern that this proposal is having a negative affect on the cohesiveness of his neighborhood. He indicated that he would not Regular Planning Commission Meeting Minutes September 18, 1997 Page 3 • purchases home in a neighborhood where this type of home occupation existed and further noted that it was his opinion that home occupations should not be permitted in any residential district. Mr. Rick Hansen, 17102 Forbes. Court, reiterated previous statements made in opposition to the Ocel proposal: and added another concern that a school. bus stop for area children is one lot away from the Ocels. Mr. Hansen also expressed concern. regarding sa#ety for neighborhood children related to construction activity for the proposed addition to the Ocel residence. Jil and Matt Ocel responded that the Zoning Ordinance allows home occupations in residential areas and the keeping of non-domestic animals as a Home Occupation is permitted via a Conditional Use Permit Mr. Ocel indicated that they have agreed to the special conditions recommended by staff regarding security for the animals and have agreed to provide exceptional safety measures that address neighborhood concerns. Ms, Ocel stated that their proposal would not generate increased. traffic or delivery trucks. Mr. Tackaberry requested staff perform a comprehensive study of the types of animals that can be permitted in residential and commercial districts and-amend the City's Zoning Ordinance to reflect the findings of the study. Mr. Tackaberry further requested clarification of the conditions for approval recommended by staff, specifically related to the proposal to keep.the Burmese Python snakes. Sobota read the staff recommendations and noted that the keeping of snakes was not included • on the list of permitted animals in the draft Conditional Use Permit recommended: by staff. Ms. Sherer-urged the Planning Commission to deny the Ocel proposal based upon. reason, justice, common sense, and consideration. for the concerns of the residents of the neighborhood. There were no further comments from. the audience. 97.120 MonoN by Miller, Second by Cecchini to close the public hearing. Roll. call vote was called on the motion. Ayes:. Miller, Kot, Amborn, Cecchini. Nays: O. Commissioners Miller and Kot expressed their commendation to staff and the Ocels in addressing the issues and concerns of the Planning Commission and residents and concurred that the proposed conditional use permit and the recommended conditions for approval meet the intent of the ordinance. Commissioner Cecchini requested clarification regarding ordinance regulations pertaining to veterinary clinics. Staff responded that animal hosp'rtalslveterinary clinics are permitted in commercial districts with a conditional use permit. • Community and Economic Development Director Sobota indicated that City staff is currently in the process of proposing amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to allow pet shops and related businesses in commercial districts...However, the current ordinance does not address these uses in commercial districts based on requests received over the past several months. Ms. Ocel has indicated she does not have an interest in locating the animals in a commercial area at this time. Regular Planning Commission Meeting Minutes September 18, 1997 Page 4 • Ms. Ocel has requested the City act on her original Conditional Use Permit application. Therefore, staff's recommendation for the requested Conditional Use Permit is based on jil Ocel's right to request the permit and the recommended conditions for approval and modifications to those conditions are based on concerns expressed by the Planning Commission and comments from the neighborhood. Commissioner Amborn indicated Ghat he had contacted three realtors with regard to the :proposal to keep non-domestic animals in a residential neighborhood. and requested their assessment of whether this use would impact the market value of neighboring properties. Amborn noted that al three expressed their belief that this proposal would have a negative impact on propertyvalues. City Administrator Robert Erickson noted that the Gcels have not indicated their agreement to staff's modified recamrnendations for approval which excludes snakes on the list of allowed animals. Mr. Erickson requested clarification as to whether the Ocels are in agreement to the conditions of the~permit as proposed by staff. Ms.-Orel requested that the two 'Burmese Pythons be reconsidered and added to the list of permitted animals on the Conditional Use Permit. Commissioner Miller indicated that he is satisfied that the conditions for approval address security for the neighborhood and the potential hazards or risks for escape of the animals is minimal. 97.121 MOTION by Cecchin, Second b -Miller to>amend the staff recommended .Conditional Use Y Permit by-adding "two pythons" to the list of animals permitted to be housed as requested by the applicant.. Roll call vote was called on the motion. Ayes.. Kot, Amborn, Cecchini Miller. Nays: 0, 97.122 MOTION by Miller, Second. by Kot to recommend to City Council approval of the amended Conditional Use Permit to allow Ms. )il Ocel to keep non{lomestic animals on her property located at`17113 Frazer Path, legally described as Lot 5, Block 1, Dodd Park, subject to the 11 stipulations,. as amended, and in accordance with the proposed Findings of Fact as recommended in the September 12, 1997 Planner's Report. Roll call vote was called on the motion. Ayes: Miller, Kot. Nays: Amborn, Cecchini. Commissioner Amborn indicated his negative vote was due to his belief that to allow this use in a residentialdistrict will have a negative affect on home sales in the neighborhood, will affect the general welfare of the public, and will result in a depreciation of the property values in the area where it is proposed. Therefore, the proposal, in his opinion, fails to meet the criteria required for conditional use permits as set forth in the Zoning Ordinance. Commissioner Cecchini indicated his negative vote is based on his belief that the Zoning Ordinance is not specific in its definition of non{lomestic animals and, in the absence of clear Regular Planning Commission Meeting Minutes September 18, 1997 Page 5 • direction from the ordinance, he feels inclined to accommodate the wishes expressed by the neighbors. The tie vote on this MOTION results in a failure of the Planning Commission to forward a recommendation on this proposal as it is submitted to the City Council.. ITEM 6: PUBLIC HEARING; Chart House Restaurant: Conditional Use Permit Vice-Chair Amborn opened' the public hearing to consider the application of the Chart House. Restaurant for a conditional use permit (CUP) to allow an impervious surface greater than 25 percent on property located at 11287 Klamath Trail. Assistant City Attorney )im Walston .attested that the legal notices had been duly published and mailed as required by state statute. Community and Economic Development Director Michael. Sobota stated that, at their meeting on Tuesday, September 16, 1997, the Environmental Affairs Committee expressed concerns regarding the proposed and existing pond :location and capturing and treatment of runoff from the existing Chart House parking lot prior to discharge to Kingsley Lake. Community and Economic Development. staff requested the Planning Commission table action on the Chart House Restaurant request for a CUP to .allow the. developer to redraw their drainage and site plan based on a site visit held with staff and the developer on September 18, 1997. 97.123 MoT1oN by Cecchini, Second. by Miller to table action and continue the public hearing for the application of the Chart House Restaurant for a Condifronal Use Permit to the October 2, 1997 Planning. Commission Meeting. Roll call vote was called on the motion. Ayes:. Cecchini, Miller, Kot, Amborn. Nays: 0. Mr. Sobota noted that, due to conflict with a previously arranged schedule with the Lakeville School .District, City staff is recommending the regular Planning Commission meetings for October be rescheduled to their regular meeting dates of October 2, 1997 and October 16, 1997. Planning Commission members concurred with staff recommendation.. The next Planning Commission Meeting will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday,. October 2, 1997. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.rn. Respectfully submitt onna Quintus, Recor` ng Secretary ATTEST: ~~F -~f Howard Amborn, Vice-Chair Jil Ocel: Conditional Use Permit (17113 Frazer Path) Public Hearin - Se tember 18 1997 g P (Continued from 9 4-97 PC 11~eeting) N e Please Print Street Address Please Print Phone No. ~J ~ F ~53-~ ~7 r ~ ~ ~ ~ d (c~~~u.r./ ~18~.t - X14/ l • September 14, 1997 Lakeville .Planning Commission Lakeville City Council 20195 Holyoke Ave.. Lakeville, MN 55044 We the undersigned request that the Planning Commission and the City Council of Lakeville deny Jill Ocel's request for a Conditional Use Permit that will allow her to .keep non-domestic animals in her home located at 17113 Frazer Path, Lakeville for a home occupation/business. Sincerely, signature printed name address dat ~ '7 • ~ ~ar Fra Z i e r 17 ! 7o Fra~c~, ~ s~ (`f~q' ~ / ~ 1 ~c~~~ Frz~zuc ~ ~~M ~ca~n ~1 Q,(C~i~t. I S~ ~ t~ a e q W ~ ~ f 9~ ~-A,,~,~rw~ ~--I ~c~~ ~r.~- ~ ~0~'~ ~,~9s,~er ~,na~~ 9-i~ 9~ /1'J,~~?A~ l ' kp~Qr~ t ~rt~~ (r©~'~oes C~- r~ry~S7 ~ 7~i~~s ,mss / ~i®~ ~~~~s 9 ly ~7 ~~c~ Cfca~ ~czr~ 1~~7v ~-,~Cirt in/~ ~ I r~l/97 September 14, 1997 Lakeville Planning Commission Lakeville City Council 20195 Holyoke Ave. Lakeville, MN 55044 We the undersigned request that the Planning Commission and the City Council of Lakeville deny Jill Ocel's request for a Conditional Use Permit that will allow her to keep non-domestic animals in her home located at 17113.. Frazer Path, Lakeville for a home occupation/business. Sincerely, signature printed name address date f ~ ~ ~ r i~~~,.t.~.w•.- ~i ~a.N ~7pZ i Grbes G~i: 9 f~'~ ~7f ~ ~9 . ~ i (~I ~ T~~-fi~~ ~ ~ 9'/i.~' l+7/Z ~'~°'1C~ ~l fix' l fly ~ 7 S~e~c ~ J~I~e ~~r ~7~a® ~~r~bes C~- 9_ r~-~~7 SEP-t5y9T 08:2T From:CENTRAI SERVICES +150Z43T94T1 T-1T1 P.Ot/0Z Job-371 ~ M(~~"iTER COUNTY ~ ~[~amperaap i OFFICE OF , ' 9 E01 1st 9TR2~'T NE ~ ~ A,t~atin, MN 55912 (507) d37.9d28 FAX (5071487-9471 Patrick Oman Glen M. JecohaeiL Robert W. Auron Katherine M. Sachs CoaatyAttamay Chief Deputy CasnkpA[tornay Aaaietaet County Attomdy rlnristant Coanty Attoetwy City of Lakeville City Council and Planning Commission Re: C_U.P. Application of JII Orel Councilmembers and Commissioners; I write to you in support of Ms. Ocel's application not in an official capacity, but as an avid herpetoculturwt for over 15 years. My interest in law and education has taken my herpetology into legislative arenas as well as classrooms. I was a founding board member and served two terms on the Board of Directors of the National Herpetological Alliance. I was a legislative representative for the American Federation of Herpetoculturists. I have .also provided ordinance drafting support and assistance to various municipalities around the Twin City metropol'dan area. 1 have also been hired by the Ci#y Council of Robbinsdate as their reptile permit inspector. t served two terms as the President of the Minnesota Herpetological Society and have been involved in MHS educational programs for the past ten years. It is my firm belief that reptiles and amphibians (herpetofauna} can be appropriate{y andsefety housed in a residential sefting. At one point, I was maintaining 3 large Burmese pythons, together with many other reptiles, in safe, secure and responsible caging within one room of my house. Primary considerations must include appropriate cage construction to both contain the animal and provide a safe and secure housing area, but also to protect the animal from other animals, people, chemicals as well as inappropriate temperatures and: environmental conditions. Pythons do not have tfie same space requirements that mammals of the same, or even'/Z, body weight require. They are sedentary animals that do trot require walking or quality time with an owner in order to remain healthy. They require the proper temperature,. humidity, food and water and very little else. Some species require a hiding area for their psychological well-being, but this is generally not the case with Burmese pythor~ Although snakes are adept at escaping from inappropriate containers, a well-built wooden cage with hasps or locks to secure the door is more than sufficient to contain even the largest python. have spoken at length with Ms. Ocel about hertraining, experience and qual'rFcations to properly keep and care for the animals that she Intends to use In her programs. 1 am :convinced that she will properly contain and care for the animals that will be the means of her continuing in the profession that she has i o~~ AN EOUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER ~ r,~eraA~ SEP-19-199? 12:31 612 883 8683 99Y. P.02 SEP-19-9T 06:27 Fram:CENTRAL SERVICES +15074379471 T-171 P.02/02 Job-3T1 , chosen. (would be more than happy to offe[ my services to the City Council as • an inspector to verify that her animals are appropriately housed and cared for. If you have any questions, please do nvt hesrtate to call: Thank you for your time and consideration. ~ Glen M. Jacob en I SEP-19-199? 1231 612 883 8683 99X P.O3 . Sept. 18, 1947 To: The City of E.akeville Minnesota: Jil Ocel has contacted me and updated me on a situation that she is encountering that involves the concern of your tc~wnzfolk, Planning Commission and City Council. Before addressing this issue, let me take this opportunity to briefly share my background with you. i was the pirect~r of the Orange County Zoo, located in Orange, CA, from 1986 - 1990. From the years of 1 S~c)0 - 1993, I managed and directed all operations relating to the Department of Animal attractions at iCnott's Betty Farm, in Buena Fark, CA. From 1993 to present, I currently am the assistant to the Director of the Raptor Education Grroup Inc. in Amigo, WI. I assist in all areas cif operation of the fatality and provide educational services as needed. During this period, [ took a short break from my position at the Raptor Education Group to assist the Central Wisconsin Wildlife Centel in their development. I held the potion ofExervvtive Director from. September. l c)n.,' through December, 1996. With a background in Veterinary medicine, i hold an Animal Health Technician's degree and license, as well as a degree in Animal Science. My life and career has hcen geared around the field of animal preservation, exhibition and education. Jil recently inforyned me of the dilemma involving her holding two Burmese python snakes at her proposed facility. 1 know Jil well, I hired her and assisted her in her training for her position at . ICnott's Camp Snoopy. Malt of America. She was one of the people who were directly supervised under me during training at 1Cnott's Berry Faun, CA, and also at Knott's Camp Snoopy, Mall of America. 1 held her abilities in the highest regard. Additionally, I am the individual who initially acquired these tv~~t+ Burmese pythons for the animal collection at Knott's Camp Snoopy. 1 was familiar with their personalities upon acquirins them, and upon several visits over the scars, have observed and handled them numerous times. They are excellent snakes for use in an educational .arena. They arc handled daily,. and may I dare say, they egjoy the attention and the opportunty to beheld. Snakes occupy an area where much education is needod. They are one of the world's most . misunderstood animals. quite feared. ~ Even the Bible, written at the beginning of time. refers to snakes as "serpents " Marge Cthson, the Executive Director of the Raptor F,ducation Group in . Amigo and also President of the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council, has taught me~that fear, in the case of animals, is nothing more than a lack of understanding. I found this.to be true: • . . I used co fear snakes Qne person took the tune to introduce a snake to me, now I hold much ~ > • respect for their place in the' animal kingdom. I marvel at their physical abilities and attn'btttes. I ~ . have shared this with thousands of people during my career. Jil can offer you the same benefit..: A~.: common animal rcddity accepted-worldwide is the horse. Numerous injuries and deaths oCCHtr:;;,::s~ : ~ . annually as a ~ecult af•human interaction with this animal. 'Yet, the horse continues to be high on • . - • ' the list of "d~irablc"~ animals.. Why? :Because we do not fear it, we understand it.~ • ' • Sadly. snakes that ~ gm~~+, into large wakes are commonly offered for sale to the general public as "pets." They do not make.~good pets for the average person. Sadly, this has given.the snake a "bad rap." Initially, the average member of.the general public does not im?est in suitable caging . for the snake. Ac the snake•grows larger.and sturdiercaging is requited, this demands evem,more ' ~ of a financial invc~tmcnt. The average,person.is generally reluctant to make this investmatt.:: ~ ` SEP-18-1997 1555 612 883 8683 99'/. P.02 Therefore, snake ~capec become common. The snake must be fed with regularity. In mY • lifetime 1 have encountered countless numbers of snakes of all sizes which have been underfed or starved due to human ne{ttoct. Why this is, I don't lrnow. A hungry strike increases in moodiness and the propensity tc~ strike. How often have we seen a family purchase a dog for their child, and soon the child l=orcd with the dog and dots not spend ftme with it_ In the case of the snake, this is even more. cammrn a. it sits silently in its cage, unable to speak, It is ignored by ers owner. It is no wonder that when not handled with regularity, that problems occur. This is true with aI! animals. It is commtm for peoplt to want the snake, yet they don't want to give it the care it demands. Unrfanunatcly. the snake gets the bad image, not the person, which is where the prablem exists }t is ,c, frustrating forme to hear a person say negative things about a snake that just bit him - whc;n +n tact the person just handled the snakes' food source (mice, rats, etc.) and didn`t bother to w2ch hit hands. The snake, having limited eyesight, saw a moving dark object that smelled bf fc,+~d F{e went to eat, a normal function, yet only gained a bad image, as his owner lacked cnmm~n cease and was careless. The poor snake is now labeled a "biter",.only because he was h+murv. This paragraph outlines so marry of the problems classically seen with larger snakes in rur .:,ciety, The snakes must be managed properly, Ttl Ocel is a person who I trust with this r~a,nn~ibility. This situation you arc addressing gave me reason to contact Karen Norris, the current Supervisor of Animal Attracnic,rr at Knott's Berry Farm in t,,,A. Karen was "amazed and in disbelief' that there was a concern about the snakes at the proposed. faciliry in Lakeville. She has informed me that Knott's hat kept and displayed [atge snakes (pythons,) ranging from St? to 100 pounds for the past 10 gears. Thev have never had an accident, and they have never had a guest prablem with . one of their ~nakec~ touring these past 10 years, the snakes have been kept on display for park ' guests to view, ~ h~~ arc used in an animal show very similar to the show at ]Knott's Camp Snoopy. Malt of America. and they are taken into the park, on the midways (pathways) and shared with people. There ha. rl~ver been a problem. They have reached millions of people. It is so evident co see the curioit~ a child light up upon seeing the snake, yet so sad to see the adults that have been impregnated with the information that "snakes are serpents" and are to be feared, and they shy away. Wirh knc,~~ledge and a safe chance to explore and learn, I have seen thousands of people relax and allow themselves to admire the unique qualities of such a unique animal. I have witnessed fear hcing re,nc}ueced with understanding, so many times. T ~ I am asking you to c+pen your minds and your hearts to Jil, as she is asking to provide 8 service for your community and your ch+7dren =helping them to learn about animals, loved and #'eared:. Very few people tackle that challenge, being one ofNature's Ambassadors.' She should be commended for her willin5~ne.x tc+ undertake such a task, as not many do. As a rule, humans tend to take Mother Nature I'<~r strented, which is why vur planet is on the verge of peril today. -Each animal is a vital part of cur ec~~<vnem. Please view Til's endeavors as a plus, not a minus to your communiry. . Very ly Yours, Nancy SEP-18-199? 1556 612 883 8683. 99% P.®3 W1l.LL1rC ~~-1C1`I I,C CI'11 C I CL • Vl<-`rV~-J77~+ ~G~+ a i y~ as •?v ~.u .vv~. ~ i, WILDLIFE SCIENCE CENTER ' to ical Sal i c r u lr f n e and Education ~ , Eco g ut on, Th o g Sc a c ` `I ~ •j . ~ 17 September ] 997 'X To Whom It May Concern: tarn writing in support of Jill Ocel's request for a special use permit 'from .the city of Lakeville. As the director of the Wildlife Scicnre Center in Forest lake, MN, I am familiar with rei;ulations regarding housing of exotic native quid non-native wildlife. Our Center houses gray wolve.5, red wolves, black bears, bobcats, birds cif prey, raccoons, and various other wildlife. We are subject, to regular inspections by the UShA and report regularly to both state and federal. authorities overseeing animal welfare. In addition, 1 oversaw the transition of our program .from a fedei-ally funded, federally supervised program to one'which is strictly nc~n-prc~lit. During this transition phase, l wnrked as a "Lookeeper at the Minnesota-'Loo. Among my duties was the care and management of the herp:~ nn the Tropics 't'rail. It is my professional experience that allows mo xo endorse Ms. Uccl's program enthusiastically. I have known Ms. Qccl from both the Minnesota 'Loo and from Camp Snoopy. My organization has collaborated with both institutions upon a number of educational efforts, and Ms. Uc:el was my primary liaison. Both institutions have exemplary records with respect to animal rare and safety. Camp Snoopy's animal program was directly .under Ms. Ore1's direction and mainta.[ned the'highest level of safety bath for the animal and for the countless visitors to the Mall of America. ' 1 have direct experlenc~e managing the species that Ms. t)ccl intends to manage, and I consider her proposed facilities to exceed necessary standards for safety and welfare. Indeed, I .interpret her extra precautions to be protection for her animals, not concern for safety of humans. The Burmese python at the Minnesota Tao did not have two locks on Its cnr.losure,. nor did the blood. pythons. It was not necessary. Lastly, t fully endorse her educational proAram.~. lv1s. Ocel is a highly experienced educator, and is :helping fulfill an essential component to 5463 VYEST BROADWAY, FOREST LAKE, NIlNNESOTA 55025, PHONE: (612) a64-3993 SEP-18-1997 1426 612 883 8683 99 P.03 lUlLllL1Ft SC:1tNC.t l.tNlt ltL=oi'L-4C4-JyyJ aep 1r y~ l~;~r r~o.vu~ r.vl r our public and private education programs, especially K 12. With an environmental education requirement' mandated i'or students K-1L in • Minnesota, teachers arc searching for exciting and informative programs. 'Phis is one of them. I have used Ms. Ocel's talent in the past and will continue to do so. Please feel free to contact me directly if I can answer any further questions. Sincerely, ~ Pegg allahan ]rxccutivc Director SEP-18-1997 1426' 612 883 8683 99% P.04 r' .w.~. ~e,s/i.NY~J IC. .1~1 VCCY l20~2 Tfi Pag ursaslr, scptearoet t~ i99~ l:rt_t6 • September 17, 1997 To City of Lakeville Platuung Committee City Council Members Residents I have had the opportunity to work with Jil Ocel for the last four years. Until recently, I was the`Supervisor of Entertainment at Knott's Camp Snoopy and JiI's supervisor. Jil's responsibilities as the .Entertainment Representative - Nafi2ralist are diverse. She oversees the .acquisition, care and training of the exotic animal collection. She has beelz instrumental in the development ofmulti-million dollar animal Bolding facilities and has designed state-af--the art holding areas in which to keep the collection secure. In the time that Jil has been in her position safety has been the highest prioray of the area. In the 5 years that Jil has been the supervisor of the Naturalist area, the department has passed all monthly safety inspections done by Camp Snoopy and Mall of America. In addition, her department has passed all City of Bloomit~aton surprise inspections, Throughout her employment, Jil has been instrumental in the wide variety of educational programs offered at Camp Snoopy. She researched, wrote and continues to supervises the daily. animal show. She has written traveling shows for school tours and has founded numerous partnerships with outside organizations. The Pearson's Candy Company partnership offers children with disabilities the opportunity to get up close with some of the animals from the Camp Snoopy animal collection, it has been running for three years. Jil has won numerous awards for her area, the most impressive being the "Mutual of Omaha Wild Kingdom" award -this is a national honor and because of Jil's skilled background, world renowned Animal Naturalist Jack Hanna has appeared several times with Jil to promote the work the. she has aocomplished. As a city resident and mother of two small children, I understand the fears and concerns that a .select number of the citizens of Lakeville have. ~iowever, knowing Jil's skill''level and knowledge, her safety record and her thoughtful nature, I would have no concerns diving in her neighborhood. I urge the planning committee and city council to vote in support of Ms. Ocel's request. Jil's vision of offering educational programming to the citizens and students of Lakeville will be a strong asset to your city. sincerely, Heather Dorsey 283 Washburn Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55405 • (612) 374-5013 SEP-18-1997. 142? 612 883 8683 99i P.09 i Cl'-lty-l7y'f 19y = 4'f FR01'1 c r TY of ELOOM I NGTON Co 9EE36663 P. 02 b~oomtn~ton, min~esoia lZ/i lll~wt Oid 8balcopq Ro~1 • BioorN~ptow MN ~1.10os • Ie12! Mii01o -FAX: ffaJOw • TEp; stillr7~Y . S~~an6e:18,1997 ran o~ 171.13 Frazer path Lsticevr'lle, i~ ss824 RE: a~ad cood~itiorfat ose . dc~iaamad anirttals is Bloomington. MN oornplranoe lust~ory £or the Icoeping ~on- lkas Ms. ooel:. >Ka1 w Drat oonvecsaciaa this the lo~ep;~g of ~a~d~ m Blooms Atra~nca's ~D Snoopy. has been approved as a at opening of the MaII of America in 1992. Siuae 1 ~P~ry eaoditiaaal >asc perndt since the Fisb and Wildlife a~ Umtcd Scares ~ atutwl review of reports ftnm the Lbmted Stases $]oomiggtoa staff albwed, a ooeryear iEao~r.>1$ub Agricnltura followed by a de~oilod by City of oper.~ has al sect m con~liaecc wulr nay canddior~ of appm4si. Z'},e Sys eaoeaded the ie+geriremeacs of the City of 8laomie~, 17ie exoeediag of the basic r'e9wrenteats wet obviously the dve to the actions of the :~rtalists camp Snccpy. pry e~;e~ ~'8 a: with yon individually over the part throe yenta has v~etified you have eaceaiplary recmd far ~tbc care of anitreals. Ycat display $ great conoeru for the safety of the a~mmals sad the people who arc arannd them ~ Dart of that safety is assuring the animals at+e is a safe and s+ewte atmosphere as to not "~capc" or mac wide the other anunals. This importagae you plane ~ loaeping each anixt~al s~oenred in a Hof P~'ided ~ ~8~ degree of publ~ safety for the rz<illions of people who ~e ~ ~ years. Pkaae &d free m oo~a+ct me at 94&8926 f+o: nay questions you or asy other u~?idva>s,ma3, u this matoer. Si~+ely, Londcil Pesse ~ ' .Associate Pt~aner • An At6trr~aUvo ~EQYaI OpPvrtuRlbirs Empbyer SEP-18-199? 14 59 612 883.8683 99i P.02 t'.AMP SNOU~"Y• fie MiMtcrtaintrMnt Ccxnp~try September 18, 1997 Planning Commission City of Lakeville 20195 Holyoke Avenue Lakeville, MN 55044-9047 To Whom it May Concern: Jil Ocel has been training and caring for animals here at ICnott's Camp Snoopy for over lave yeah. Her professionalism, expertise and reliability have earned her two promotions. during that time. She is currently the. license holder for all of our animals for which licenses aze required. In our industry, safety must be the number one priority. Our safety programs aze state of the art and our record is impeccable. In fact, we have never experienced a guest injury related to our animal education programming. Jil has specifically selected docile, non- . aggressive animals far these programs. These. animals have been viewed by millions of visitors and many of the animals, including snakes and. hissing cockroaches, have been handled by thousands of guests. We believe that these encounters are important to our mission of conservation and education. Our operation is managed by ICnott's Berry Farm of Buena Park, California. Knott's has been involved in animal management and education programs. for decades and has art excellent reputation in the industry. The animal management program here at Camp Snoopy was established with direction and assistance from ICnott's. We have a great deal of confidence in Jil and support her efforts to expand educational opportunities utilizing animals. There aze many misconceptions regazding members of the animal kingdom. Conservation can best be achieved through education, so that people can learn to appreciate the importance of every living thing to our ecosystem. Jil is well equipped to deliver this message and it would be unfortunate to deny her the opportunity. Sincerely, Craig J. Freeman . Vice President, General Manager Mall of Atntrica • 5000 Center Coure • Bloomin8ton, Minnesota 55425-5540 .(672) AFi3-8500 • Fos (612) 883.86133 SEP-18-1997 15 04 612 883 8683 P.03 y- ~ r ~ oxsrM r~ P. 1 September 17, 1997 David J. Howard, DVNi, MS Savage Tower Animal Hospital 6259 Egan Drive Savage, MN 55378 To Whom it may concern: ' This letter is wrirten in regards to the application submitted by Till Ocel to house a number of differern species of animals to be used in educational presentations. These animals have been legally obtained aad the proper permits are in possession for those that require it. This collection is a small and easily manageable group of animals. With the exception of the Grteat Horned Owl, aU of these animals can be kept legally as pets. I understand that thine may be some concern about housing a goup of such animals in a residential district, but 1 feel that such concerns are probably overemphasized, X have had the pleasure of havigg been employed by both The Raptor Center at the University of . Minnesota and the Lake Superior Zoo, The nnain concern of housing "wild" animals is usually one of protecting the animals from the public. rather than the other way around, The majority of the animals are housed in very routine enclosures with simple lock systems. fivers pateatially dangerous animals such as large cats are often behind only chain link fence and "Master" locks available from aay hardware store. Large or poisonous snakes are often housed is simple glass enclosures with a single lock. The • potential for escape is not'large, and ma~ay animals have little desire to leave their enclosures .even if given the opportunity, l:Iaving recently built a veterinary hospital and worked in still others, I can relay that there are virtually no directives that address the Concern for the containment of escaped animals. Concern for public safety is to be commended, and an appropriate level of precautions for the safety of the ardmals should be taken.. I do not feed that Ms. Orel should be subjected to security requirements that rxceed those of Thte Raptor Center, Lake Superior Zoo or the Mumesota Zoo. I fed. that eavirontnertal educational programs are extremely . important. I have seen those produced by Ms~. Orel and the programs. are of exceptionally high quality, ~ would be a considerable loss if she were not allowed to provide these educational services t4 the people of our communities. • Sincerely, • David J. Howard, DVM, MS SEP-18-199? 15~@3 612 883 8683 99% P.02 uIn the end, we w7ill conserve only. what we love, love only what we understand, and understand only what we are taught Baba I}ioum Senegal Patty Anderson 12790 Pr6nrose Lane #217 Eden Francis, MN 553~l4, September 17,199? To whom it may concern, I am writing this letter in support of Ms. Ocel's proposal to ut~ze exotic animals for educational programmingr I have worked with Ms. 4ce1 and: the animals in gciestion far the past two years at ICnott.'s Camp Snoopy's Wilderness Wildlife Show, Ms. Ocel has always exemplified professionalism in her programming to the public and for private education groups. She has always. shown the highest standazds in her concerns for the safety and security of the animals, handlers and the public. As an educator, her goal has always been to promote understanding and tolerance. Live animals are an essential tool in helping students of all ages to gain knowledge about the en~aitonment The lack of .reliable information is often the root of many fears and misconceptions. Through education, Ms. Ocel will be a resource to educators and .the public with her programming. She will provide a unique opportunity, helping the public to gain a better .understanding-and tolerance of their natural world Tha=?lc you far your time. Sincerely, Patty Anderson i SEP-18-1997 1556 612 883 8683 P.04 / . S3 . e CAMP SNOOPXm Tha Minnte?1ritlment Ccxtipanp • 9/17/97 City of Lakeville 20195 Holyoke Ave. Lakeville, MN 55044-9047 To Whom It May Conresn: . I am writing to you regarding Til Ocel's application for a Conditional I,Ise Permit. I am very familiar with 7i1's inspection record as I am the Safety and Training Representative at Knoll's Camp Snoopy. I am the Human Resource Representative responsible for all safety and training. I monitor and conduct safety audits, develop curriculum, facilitate meetings and submit reports on a frequent basis as well as conduct safety. walk-throughs weekly in the Park. I monitor and maintain all OSHA records. In the five years ]ii Ocel was- in charge of the animal collection, she scored perfect on all safety walk-throughs as well as never having a violation under USDA or City inspections. We maintain high standards of safety at Knoll's Camp Snoopy, and Til Oce].'s area was no exception to this rule. We even met monthly to be pro-active and discuss any concerns that the department had. I feel there are no safety concerns involving the keeping of the Pythons at 7i1's residence. As evidence of her background and training combined with the other letters of .recommendation, Jil would never put anything or anybody in an unsafe situation. Please feel free to call me with any additional questions at 883-8514. F S~tcetely, Sharon 7ohnswn Mall of America • 5000 Center Coun • Bloomington, Minnesota 5525.5500 (612)883-8500 • Fax (612) 883-8683 SEP-18-1997 14 25 612 883 8683 99 P.02' a- i i - i i a : a i r~ r ftUM GtDAR F'ET CLINIC 612 721 fdrd69 P. 2 • 3447 Cedar Avenue South b~,uas~apolis. N!N 540? • (612)121-7431 September 16. 1997 Dear ~9 of Laxe~~ille, I am writing in regard Jil Ocel's r~gttest to be allowed to keep a variety of animals in her home. ?'line attitnals incinde tbret bi7~ a rhlnch;na , a porcupiae, a tormise aad pythoa snakes. Jil is a •very G~cperieacad animal halsdler and keeper. She is well aware al potential escapes and pzobletos in hausittg, In the three years that slYe wan responsible for the care of thesrattimais at Camp St?oopy, there was ntver a case of aagthing escaping 8ronu its' cage,' She bas pzcviously worked at ~ etttinary hospitals and coos so her e~ is cxtm~ive in keeping tmnsual animals. With dais backgrammd Jil is extremely capable of keeping these aainoals safely uteiec oontml. I1oae of tLc~e species ptuE a threat to any person coming ~ catuact with theist, I ttnderstamd that 'the pythons are of patti,calar conczrn, bnt these snares are slow movies and noa>_aggressfve. In the uttlikely situation that a python escapes,- it world seek ont a gaiet warm place within the bui td1~ and be relnctaat to have. All of these animals are titled e4 rapdti-icy and to Jil razing for tHem. Tlpe have bees under a?Y Dare since Camp Snoopy scatted, and are not dangerous animals. T waald be happy to disCtzss this further. with the council or with aaq individual tneatber. I qn be . reached at 633-3187 on the nisht of y~otzr tneetizsg. My pages zztamber is 637-8486. Sincerely, • • • ~ • • J. w.l3aillie. DvM ~ • ck/JWB • i SEP-18-1997 1427 612 883 8683 99% P.07 9117/97 Sandra Hudson W7002 810th Ave. River Falls, WI 54022 City of Iakvill]~e 20195 Holyoke Avenue Lakeville, MN 55044-9047 Dear Sir or Madam: This letter is in support of Iii Oce1's use of exotic animals for environmental education and interpretation. My background includes 18 years experience in environmental interpretation, working at two Wisconsin State Parks, teaching an interpretation class at UW River Falls, .and presenting interpretive workshops for Wisconsin DNR. I am experienced in handling reptiles, amphthians, birds, mammals, and I have also trained horses and dogs. It was my privilege to work with Til at Knott's Camp Snoopy as a Naturalist/Animal Trainer in the Wilderness 'W"ildlife Show, I was directly involved with the care and management of all the animals in the Show. Our Show reached over 150,000 people a year! Under Til's leadership and supervision, the safety and welfare of our animals was of critical importance, We were subject to random inspections by Camp Snoopy Supervisors, the City of Bloomington, the State of MN and Federal Animal Welfare Inspections. Included in all of these inspections were issues directly related to the safety of the animals, and -the security of their holdings. Our inspection record was unblemished. Finally, I would like to address the issue regarding the Pythons. I..have personally handled "Russ" and 'Molly" without incident, hundreds of times, in front of thousands. of people. They are extremely gentle animals and are comfortable with frequent handling. In the care of a person of Jil's expertise and training they pose no threat to anyone. These snakes represent animals. of the Rainforest, a rapidly decreasing ecosystem whose importance we are only beginning to grasp.. Many people needlessly fear snakes because of their lack of knowledge. "Russ" and "Molly" are wonderful ambassadors for snakes in .general. These Pythons help people get over the many myths and misconceptions that surround these animals. They are also j used to promote responsible pet ownership, ~ people learn what is involved in the care of reptiles. Please allow Jil to continue to use these animals to educate, so that knowledge can replace fear, Sincerely, Sandra L. Hudson SEP-18-199? 14:26 612 883 8683 P.06 Marthe Herbert 8121 158' Lane Noahwest Ramsey, Mnnesota 55303 September 17, 1997 To whom it may concern, I am writing in regards to the issuance of a city permit allowing Jil Ocel to house animals at her residence at 17113 Frazer Path in Lakeville, Minnesota. It is my understanding that some ~cems have been raised by few residents of the neighborhood, spec~cally toward the housing of two Burmese Pythons and the perceived safety of these neighbors. i am an environmental educator currently working on programming for Como Zoo and Conservatory and Kids for Saving Earth. I have spent the last 5 years working with Ms. Ocel as a Naturalist and Din:ctor of Education for Knott's Camp Snoopy. Prior to that I worked with wildlife rehabilitation. In all my years of working with animals (that includes snakes), I have yet to experience or encounter anyone who has incurred any serious or threatening injury from a snake. There are many myths about snakes, but the truth is that there is a higher risk of injury from a dog or cat than there is from a snake. Having worked with Jil for over five years I oan honestly state that I have never rnet anyone with more integrity or concern for the safety of her animals and others. She has always taken the utmost care to ensure proper diet and weight management and that all security systems are in place and strictly adhered to. Having presented over 3800 programs at Knott's Camp Snoopy to people of-all ages, there has never been a situation where a person was in danger of being bitten or attacked. There are some wildlife educators who do not have the high ethical standards, nor the knowledge that Ms. Ocel does. h is her goal to ensure that all people learn the #ruth about anima! species and the environment so our children will have respect for the Earth and alt its inhabitants. Denying fier this permit based on the irrational fears and misinformation of a select few would only perpetuate unfounded fear and ignorance. Please do not base the issuance of this permit on what you don't know. Education is currently one of the largest issues facing government on all level. ay .issuing Ms, pcel this permit, you wiU be ensuring quality environmental education irra safe environment for all people. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Marthe Herbert SEP-18-199? 14:26 612 883 8683 P.05 - - - _ _ a u~aa~o Va. ~rAl•Lt VV VQI W `Pearson s PEARSON CANDY COMPANY . 2140 WEST SEvENTN STREET. P.O. BOX 6aa59 I ST. PAUL. MINNESOTA. 5516a I 612-698-0366 ~ FAX 6t2.696-2222 September 18, 1997 Ms. Jill Ocel .Project Wildlife Dear Jill: We were very concerned after hearing that there were questions from your community xegarding the housing of the animals for the Project Wildlife program. Over the past twelve years of our ownership of Pearson Candy Company, the Project Wildlife program stands out as the .most enjoyable and valuable community program Pearson's and its employees have been associated with. We consider ourselves fortunate to be involved with such a fine program. On countless occasions, we have witnessed the pure joy and excitement expressed by attendees of the Project Wildlife program. I challenge. anyone to watch as an autistic child reaches out and pets a Project Wildlife rabbit or touches. a snake for the first time. and not be impressed with the power of animals. We believe we have a wonderful opportunity to bring both excitement and education to many people who would otherwise never have such experiences. Just because. you. may be confined to a nursing home or residence doesn't mean you don't deserve to share in the jay and wonder of animals. You've proven to ws over the years. your dedication to the Project .Wildlife program and to the proper care of its animals. We sin- cerely hope that. nothing occurs to harm the Project Wildlife _ program and offer our assistance in any way possible to insure that. the program continues for .many years to come. Sincerely, PEARSON CANDY COMPANY Judy Johnston Executive v.p,/C.D.O. cc: Larry Hassler- President & C.E.O. NUT GOODIE MINTS PEANUT NUT ROLL CHOCOLATE NUT ROLL SEP-18-1997 1459 612 883 8683 99i P.03