HomeMy WebLinkAbout7.h. Empire Township Comprehensive Plan _ , City of Rosemount
Executive Summary for Action
City Council lYleeting Date: �ulv 20, 1993
Agenda Item: Empire Township Comprehensive Plan Agenda Section:
NEW BUSINESS
Prepared By: Lisa Freese Agen��p� �
Director of Planning �Yj 7�"�
Attachments: Proposed Letter, PC Review, Farmington Approved By:
Letter, Empire Comprehensive Plan
Empire Township has completed a Comprehensive Plan and has submitted it to the Metropolitan
Council for formal review and action. As required by the Metropolitan Land Planning Act, the
Township has provided adjacent jurisdictions with a copy of their plan for review and comment.
A copy of the Empire Comprehensive Plan is included with the Council packet.
Plaiuiing staff and the Planning Commission have reviewed the Plan and are recommending that
the City send a letter commenting on the plan to the Township and Metropolitan Council. The
Planning Commission is recommending that a letter be sent jointly by the Cammission and City
Council based on the issues discussed in the July 13 Planning Commission review. Included in
your packet is a letter drafted for your review and appraval. If you have additional comments
regarding the plan please feel free to incorporate them into the drafted letter.
Recommended Action: A Motion to approve the comment letter as drafted regarding the
Empire Comprehensive Plan and forward it ta the Township officials and the Metropolitan
Council.
City Council Action:
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PHONE (612)423-4411 2875-t45th Street West,Rosemount,Minnesota MAYOFi
FAX (612)4235203 Mailing Address: Edward B.McMenomy
P.O.Box 570,Rosemount,Minnesota 55068-0510 COUNCILMEMBERS
July 21� �.993 Snei�a K�assen
James(Ret�Staats
Marry Wilicox
Dennis Wippermann
C.T.E. Stelzel� C�111T AOMINISTRATOR
Empire Township Board s�apn�����x
3385 197th Street West
Farmington, MN 55024
RE: EMPIRE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Dear Mr. Stelzel:
The City of Rosemaunt has received and reviewed the Empire Township Comprehensive Plan.
We wish to commend your effort in establishing a guide for your community which for the most
part encourages sustainable agriculture in the Township. We acknowledge that there are
tremendous growth pressures in the general regional and we are encouraged that the township is
attempting to set standards to deter premature growth.
The City is particularly encouraged by the following policies within the Plan:
* Nonfarm residenfial development in Agricultural areas not exceeding one farm dwelling
per quarter-quarter (40 acres).
* Lot Divisions of more than one lot will require platting and lots less that 10 acres will
require platting and conveyance by register land survey.
We hope that the township will proceed immediately to implement these policies through
incorporation into your zoning and subdivision regulations.
There were several policies in the plan that the City of Rosemount had concerns and we would
like to comment on those items for the record.
* Industrial Policv. The plan incorporates an industrial policy which states that industrial
development should be limited, but the Township did not clearly spec�ed what was
meant by "limited". The City would hope that the township would consider defining
those uses better and providing more guidance as to what locations that such uses
would be considered acceptable. '
* Institutional Policv. The City of Rosemount would like to encourage the Townstup to
take a stronger position with regard to non-University related uses on the University of
Minnesota Research Center. The plan as worded seems to accept that if this type of
development occurs on the University while the land is still owned by the University
that the Township.would not be concerned. The City of Rosemount has been quite
concerned about this type of activity occurring on the property and would seek the
Township's support in adopting more restrictive policies similar to those in the City's
recently adopted comprehensive plan.
�ver�l�ingfs �omivcg �C/Gp CcJlosemounl��
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EMPIRE COMPRE�IENSIVE PLAN
` ` Page Two
* Establishment of a Rural Center. The City of Rosemount understands the need to
consider this area. of Empire Township as a rural center to bring the existing
development into conformance with regional policies. However, the City is concerned
that the Comprehensive plan provides for expansion of this rural center. Given the fact
that cities such as Rosemount, Farmington and Lakeville are within a few miles of this
center, Rosemount questions whether or not Empire needs to expand this area in the
future beyond those developments that have been approved by the Township previously.
* Expansion of Water and Sewer Facilities. The City is pleased that the Township has
developed a policy for water and sewer facility expansion, but hopes that the Township
will not extend such services unless there is a health issue.
* Rural Residential. The City is plea.sed that the township has adopted a 1 unit per 10
acre requirement in the rural residential area, but we are concerned with only a i-acre
minimum for septic development and the potential for commercial development
considered by the Township plan.
Additionally we have ident�ed a couple of areas that we feel should have been addressed in your
plan, but were not discussed.
* Annexation�oli�. As growth continues in the general region, the Township will
continue receive development pressure. As a bordering community we feel it would be
very helpful if the township would address through a policy what the development
threshold is that will result in the Township encouraging the annexation of land. The
plan makes little or no mention of what that policy may be. A transition plan of this
nature would be appreciated by Rosemount.
* Gravel Minin�. Little is mentioned in your plan about the various gra:vel mining
operaxions within the Township. Since these operations have a profound affect on
adjacent properties, the City of Rosemount would encourage the Township to develop
more extensive policies pertaining to this use.
Again, we thank the Township far the opportunity to camment on your Comprehensive Plan.
We hope that your understand our concems and will try to address them as you focus your
efforts towards implementation.
Sincerely,
Cathy Busho, Chair
Planning Commission
E.B. McMenomy, Mayor
City of Rosemount
cc: Dottie Rietow, Metropolitan Council, Chair
Craig Morris, Metropolitan Council, District 16
Richard Thompson, Metropolitan Council, Principal Reviewer
Jeff Connell, Resource Strategies Corporation
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LAW OFFICES
BII� IGGS AND MOk� GAN �
• BROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATI02�
2200 FIBST I�ATIONAL HA2:8 HUILDZ2id ,
SAI1'T PAVL,MI2�"2QESOT.A 55101
TELEPl30NE (6121 223-6000
FaCSIMILE t912) 283•8450
ML��E3POLIS OPFiCE
. . . . . � . . � . 2300 1 D S GETTE$ � .
�8I2EB'S DIBECT DIAL 1CIIMHEB JL],1�7 13 , 1993 . � . � xU��ug..��-���2
. � . TELEP80A2 101E)334•6d00 .
. . . � . � T�C5I2[II.E 16t21 354.a830 . .
{612) 223-6666
DELIVERY VIA MESSENGER
Ms. Dottie Rietow, Chair
Metropolitan Council
230 E. 5th Street
St. Paul, Minnesota 55101
Re: City of Farmington xearinq Request on Empire Township
Comprehensive Plain
Dear Chair Rietow:
We represent the City of Farmington. Under the authority of
Minn. Stat. §473 . 175, Subd. 2, the City of Farmington requests the
Metropolitan Council to conduct a hearing to allow the City and
others to present its views on the proposed comprehensive glan for
Empire Township dated June 8, 1993 . The City received the draft
comprehensive plan from Empire Township on June 16, 1993 so this
hearing request meets the 30 day requirement of Minn. Stat.
§473 . 175, Subd. 2 .
The City is requestinq this hearing for two principal reasons.
First, the City beli�ves the comprehensive plan of Empire Township
raises significant issues for the broader Farmington area community
and for the Metropolitan Council as both strive to determine how to
manage urban growth, preserve rural and agricultural areas, and
ensure the efficient delivery of public services. Second, the City
has � petitioned the Minnesota Municipal Board for annexation of
portions of Empire and Castle Rock Townships and believes the
Council needs to address annexation issues as part of its review of
Empire Township's comprehensive plan.
The City will be submitting detailed comments during the last
week of July outlining its concerns with the Township's draft
comprehensive plan pursuant to Council guidelines for reviewing :
local comprehensive plan amendments.
The City looks forward to working with you, other Council
members, and Council staff in determining how to best to conduct
the hearing and resolve the outstanding issues.
. � .
BRIGGS AND MORGAN '
Ms. Dotty Rietow
Page 2
July 13, 1993 .
Please contact me if you have any questions or desire
additional information.
Sincerely yours,
BRIGGS AND MORGAN, P.A.
B �
Y
Timothy E. arx
Attorneys for the City of
Farmington
TEM:cf
cc: E. Craig Morris -- Council Member District 16
Peter Schmitz -- Empire Township Attorney
James Sheldon -- Castle Rock Township Attorney
Patrica Lundy -- Minnesota Municipal Board
Jay Heffern -- Metropolitan Council, General Counsel
Richard Thompsan -- Metropolitan Council, Senior Planner
Thomas R. Caswell -- Metropolitan Council Environmental
Planner
Thomas M. Melena -- Apple Valley City Administrator
�bert Ericksan -- Lakeville City Administrator
ephan Jilk --- Rosemount City Administrator
Larry Thompson -- Farmington City Administrator
Charles Tooker -- Farmington City Planner
� � City of Rosemount
Executive Summary for Action
Planning Commission Meeting Date: Tulv 13. 1993
Agenda item: Empire Cornprehensive Plan Review Agenda Sect�on:
OLD BUSIIVESS
Prepared By: Lisa Freese Agenda No.-
Director af Pianning IT'EM NO. 12
Attachments: MDIF--Rural Centers, Empire Plan Appraved By:
(distributed previously) ,,L2�P-Q-�I
At the previous meeting, copies of the Empire Comprehensive P1an were distributed, but we did
not have an opportunity to discuss it. Currently, the Plan is being reviewed by the Metropolitan
Council. The City has until 7uly 29th to submit comments on the Plan.
I have reviewed the Plan and commend Empire in its efforts ta put tagether a comprehensive plan.
The plan establishes a 1/40 acre standard for nonfarm residences in the Agricultural areas which is a
positive step towards preserving fannland from premature development.
There are some areas, however, that I think the City of Rosemount should be concerned about and
may wish to comment on:
1) Establishment of a Rural Center. This designation allows residential development with utilities
in the community. Currently the only rural centers that eacist in the metro area are incorporated
places such as Lake Elmo, Norwood and Young America. This would be the first time that the
Metropolitan Council allow a township this status. The concem that I see with this is that it
may be more appropriate to consider annexation of this area to Fannington rather that provide
this precedent setting designation.
2) Gravel Mininb. The plan daes not discuss the gravel muung operations and how they fit into
the agricultural areas.
3) Institutional. The plan does not take a very strong stand with regard to the potential
development of the University of Minnesota for nan university related uses.
4) Industrial. The plan has an industrial policy which staxes that industrial development should be
limited but it leaves open a window of opportunity for Ag related industrial uses on a case by
cases basis. Rosemount should be concerned be it is really not clear what industry the
Township will cansider and where the would allow it to occur.
5) Annexation. The plan does not formally address its policy on annexation as parts of the
township become pressured for urban development. If this type of policy were clearly laid out
by the Township and the adjacent communities felt comfortable with its cvntents, it may reduce
the urgency to consider annexation.
Please take the time to review the plan. On Tuesday, I would ask that you make a recommendation
to the City Council regarding the areas of the plan that Rosemount should comment on.
Recommended Action: A motion to direct staff to grepare a letter to the Metropolitan
Couneil regarding the Empire Comprehensive Plan from the Planning Commission and City
Council.
Planning Commission Action:
0'7-13-93.012
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Development and investment Framework
the metro centers wiU receive the Council's RURAL SERVICE AREA
highest investment priorify.
Commercial Agricuttural Area
Regiona( Business Concentrations The commercia! agricultural area includes thase
12.The Metropalitan Council supports continued lands certified by local governments as eligible for
growth and increased densities in regional agricultural preserves under the 1980 Metropolitan
business concentrations and witl give invest- Agricultural Preserves A�t.This approach places the
ment priority second only to the metro centers responsibility for defining agricuttural lands on local
for the maintenance of inetropo(itan systems g�mments. With Council protection policies #or
serving the concentrations. commercial agriculture focused only in areas where
there are local govemment plans and protections,
local and regional policies support one another.
Fully Developed Area The amount of land included in the commercial
13.The Metropolitan Council supports the agricultural area is large, covering about 600,000
maintenance and upgrading of development acres in 1985.This constitutes aver half the farmland
and service facilities in the fully deve(oped �n the seven-counry area.
area. Reinvestment for rnaintenance and The geographic area defined as the commercial
replacement of inetropotitan systems serving agricultural area is subjed to frequent change when
existing development in the fully developed tied to the Agricultural Preserves Act because land
area will take priority over investment for ex- can go into and out of certification when local
pansion in the developing area. . govemments decide to aiter its status. Local govern-
ments may replan and rezone certified areas if a
Developing Area change in policy is desired,but this change must oc-
cur as a public process.For the purposes of this docu-
� 14.Urban expansion in the deve(oping area shoutd ment,the commerc+al agricuftural area is defined as
{ be planned, staged and generally contiguous the area certified as of March 1 of each year. This
� to existing development. The Metropolitan date is the end of each Council reporting year re- s
Counci) will work with the metropolitan agen- quired under the Agricultural Preserves Act.
cies and the Minnesota Department of
Transportation to provide metropolitan systems Under the Agricultural Preserves Ad,a local govem-
at the time, place and size needed ta support ment passes a resolution certifying(and eligible for
growth based on regional forecasts. protections and benefits and limiting housing den-
siry to one unit per 40 acres. The certi{ied area is
15.System investment to serve additional residen- then considered long-term agricultural land. The
tial land beyond regional forecasts will receive local comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance �
a lower priority than system irnestment to serve must reflect this land use and zoning. Farmers own-
unanticipated economic development. � ing land within the certified area may then enter the �
program. land in the program is referred to as
covenanted Jand.7he AgriculWre Preserves Ad pro-. �
Freestanding Growth Centers vides protection for the farmer from urban
assessments, property taxes at development vatue
16.The Metropolitan Council supports urban- and conflicting land uses in exchange for a lega)
density residential,commercial and industrial commitment to continue farming for at least eight
development in freestanding growth centers. �a�'
Since they are a microcosm of the Metropolitan
Area,The Metropolitan Council will make in- Within the commercial agricultural area,alt land has
vestments in metropolitan systems serving been certified by local governments as eligibfe for
freestanding growth centers based on the fut- the agriculture preserves program. However, the
ly deveioped and developing area policies, as Council recognizes two levels of protection in the
appticab(e. commercial agr�culturaf area:primary and secondary
protection areas.
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:: Primary protection areas are lands covenanted as residential density on the basis of 40-acre parcels.
agricultural preserves. They will receive the greatest This will prevent possible urban-density clustering
protection possible from incompatible uses because of a large number of homes on smatl minimum lot
the greatest lev�e(of commitment to farming hasbeen sizes, but within the overall density cap.The Coun-
established. cil opposes such clustering because it could result
in the need for urban services,such as package sewer
Secondary protection areas cover the farms in ihe disposal systems.
area that have not yet formed agricultural preserves.
The Courcil believes the commercial agriculture Existing Urban-Density Development
area is a place where agriculture is the best perma- Residential subdivisions, mobile home parks and
nent use of the land. Long-term investments in farm clusters of moderate-densiry residential development
equipment and in land preservation can be made also exist in the general rural use area.They frequent-
with the confidence that urban development is not ly demand urban services but are in locations where
going to destroy or limit these investments. urban services are difficult or costly to provide.The
Council°s principal concern is the potential need for
General Rural Use Area - . the costly extension of central sa�itary sewer and par-
ticularly metropolitan sewer service. The Council
supports development in the generat rural use area
The general rural use area is the area outside the ur- consistent with seroice levels appropriate for a rural
ban service area that is not designated for commer- area.l.ocal governments with existing urban�Jensiry
cial agriculture. Over 40 percent of the land in the development shouJd address the operation and
� Metropolitan Area falls in this category.The area con- mainienance issues of on-site systems to avoid poten-
tains a wide variety of (and uses, including tial problems and the eventual need for costly local
agricultural, residential and urban-type facilities. investments.
There are sizable parts of the general rural use area
that host no particular kind of land use-land that Urban Uses
is ohen catled unused. Most of the area looks rural,
but many of its residents are tied economically to Many facilit�es exist in the general ruraf use area that
the urban area and many of its land uses provide ser- require isolated and spacious,locations but serve
vices to people living in the urban service area. primarily the urban public These facilities include
campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks,
Four major types of uses eacist within the general rural regional parks,trails,waste disposal installations,rao-
use area. ing facilities, gun clubs, festivals, mining sites and
similar facilities.The genera) rura) use area is an ap-
General Farmland propriate focation for these facilities. The Council's
interest is that these facilities are adequately serv
A large part of the general ru�al use area is devoted ed,consistent with local and regional plans,and to
io agriculture. The Council supports the continua- the extent possible, that they do not interfere with
tion of agriculture and encourages local governments agriculturai activities.
to support it by zon_ing agricultural land at one unit
per 40 acres. For farms within an area so zoned tbat
subsequently sign up for the agriculture preserves Rural Centers
program,the Council will reclassify them as part of
the commercial agricultural area, Rural centers historically have served as retail ser-
vice centers and transportation centers for the sur-
Rural Residentiaf Development rounding rural area. However,changes in agriculture
and rapid urban expansion have changed the tradi-
Rural residential development consists of homes on tional rural service roles of many of these smal)
large lots in areas that are hilly, wooded or other- centers to residential areas for urban people and
wise unsuited to agricultural production.The Coun- locations for industries with Iittle tie to local
cil considers ruraf residential development a perma- agriculture. The latter make use of available labor
nent land use and not an early stage of urbaniza- in rural areas and, by their nature, tend not to be
tion.The Council supports this rype of use as long dependent on close contad with other firms for their
as the density does not exceed one housing unit per supplies or critically dependent on transportation.
10 acres of land. The Council will compute rural
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Development and lnvestment Framework
The Council has identified 35 rural centers, with propriate,needed to serve it.Financing of necessary
populations ranging from just over 100 to more than support services would be a local responsibiliry.
5,000. Some rural centers, such as Norwood and Areas of existing urban-densiry uses are likely can-
Young America, encompass the entire corporate didates for selection as new rural eenters.
limits of the community.Others,such as Lake Elmo, �
are small enclaves withi�a larger rural community. Rural centers should accommodate additional
development consistent with their ability to finance
Services available within rural centers vary. Some and administer services, including sewer, roads,
have central sanitary sewer, others depend on on- water and stormwater drainage. If additional land is
site waste disposal systems.Some have central water needed to accommodate growth, rural centers
systems.Some provide the full range of convenience should extend services in a staged,contiguous man-
retail stores,while others have only a bar or gas sta- ner. Residential,commercial and industrial develop-
tion. Some have small manufacturing or service ment at urban densities should be accommodated
businesses;othe�s are almost exclusively residentiaL only in rural centers with central sanitary sewers that
The Council does not support the extension of are meeting state and federal water qualiry standards. !
regional systems to rural centers because of the Larger projects should be located in freestanding
distance from the urban center and the small popula- growth centers that have a full range of services. �
tions of rura) centers. i
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Rural locations in the pastdecade have been attrac- RURAL SERVtCE AREA POLICIE$ �
tive and some, although not all, communities have f
experienced an upsurge in growth, principally Commercial Agricultural Area i
residential development. Development trends are 1
down from the highs noted in the early 1970s but 17. The MetropoGtan Councit supports the tong-
continue at modest levels into the 1980s. term conti�uation of agriculture in the rural �
service area.The Council will use the fo(low- �
� Several services are important in adequately serving ing ranking in decisions to accommodate i
� additional rural center development, but sewage facilities serving urban residents. €
disposal is the most critical. Urban-densiry develop- �
� ment in an unsewered rural center poses the risks 1. Primary protection area: Land covenanted ;
of on-site sewage system failure, contamination of in agriculture preserves will receive �
groundwater and eventually the expense of new on- primary protection. Urban facilities should �
site or central sewer system installation. The be prohibited in this area unless there is '
possibiliry atso exists that remedying a pollution strong documentation that no other loca- �
problem may require an extension of inetropolitan tions in the Metropolitan Area can ade- �
sewer service through rural areas. Lack of sewer quately meet the siting and selection
service is a serious eonstraint on the arnount and criteria.
rype of development that rural centers can safely
accommodate. 2. Secondary protection area: l�nds certified
but not presently in agricultural preserves
Some parts of the rural Metropolitan Area,especially will receive a IeveF of protection secondary
� Anoka County, are receiving large amounts of scat- to agricultura) preserves. Urban facilities �
tered urban development. This scattered develop- ���- should not be located in this area untess
ment poses service problems and may,at a later date, there is strong evidence that a proposed
result in very high local service costs. The Council urban use eannot be located in the general
proposes a strategy that offers local government an rural use area.
altemative way to structure this development by
designating and creating a"ruraf center."These new
centers would be Iimited enclaves for urban�lensiry General Rural Use Area
land uses, facilities and services within the local
govemments' broader corporate boundaries. They 18. The MetropoEitan Counci{supports long-term
would not be coterminus with the entire corporate preservation of agricultural land in the
limits. Under this strategy,a loca)government would general rural use area.However,the Countil
identify an area to receive urban-density residential, wi!( alsa support residentia4 devetapment at
commercial and industrial developmsnt and the densities of no more than one unit per 10
facilities, including local central sewer, where ap- acres computed on a 40-acre basis (a max-
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imum of four units per 40 acres).The Cour�- center's plans to accommodate additional
cil will not extend metropotitan systems to growth provided they are consistent with the
serve urban-density residential development center's ability to finance and administer ser-
in the general rural use area. Where urban- vices, particutarly sewer servica The Coun-
density devefopment already exists, a local cil supports rural center �service im-
government should address service issues in provements but not at regional expensa
its plan, particularly on-site sewer system
operation and maintenance. 2 0. The Council will support a local governmenYs
ptan for a new rural center and its requests
for state and federal grants,provided the local
Rural Centers government restricts urban densities from sur-
rounding rura(areas and witl support the ne�w
19. The Metropolitan Council wil(support a rura! center with necessary service investments.
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3385 197ih ST.WEST
FARMiNGTON, MN 55024
(612)463•4494
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TO: Cities of:
Farmington
Lakeville
Rosemou�t
Coates
Townships of:
Vermilliori
Castle Rock
Dakota County
Vermillion River Watershed Management Cotnmission
ISD#196
Fatmington School District
FROM: G.E. Stelzel, Chairman .` �
. Empire Township Board
DATE: June 15, 1993
SUBJECT: Revised Empire Township Comprehensive Plan
Enclosed is a copy of the revised Ernpire Z'ov�,ns�p�Inpreherisive Plan. A copy has also been
subtnitted to the Metropolitan Council for fornial review and cortunent, as requtred by Minn.
Stat. 473.851 - 473.$72.
Comments shauld be submitted to Empire Township and the Metropolitan Council within 45
days of receiving the draft Plan. In the event you have any questions regarding the Plan, please
contact either the Town Board or Jeff Connell, Resource Strategies Corporation, 66pp C`ity West
Paz'kway, Suite 340, Minneapolis, MN 55344 (942-8010}. .
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EMPIRE TOWNSHIP
C OMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Approved For Formal Review
and �omment
June 8, 1993
Prepared By:
Resouree Strategies Corporation
6600 City West Parkway
Suite 340
Minneapolis,MN 55344
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TABLE 4F C�NTENTS
Page
I. Plan Background 1
II. Existing Conditions 3 �
Land Use 3
Population And Housing 4
Natural Features �
Community Facilities and Services 8
Transportation lp
III. Township C,oals and Guide Plan 13
Rural Center 15
Agriculture � 16
Residential lg
Commercial 19
Tndustrial 2�
Environmental Protection 22
* Groundwater Supply and Quality 23
* Surface Water Drainage and Quality 25
* Wet Soils and Steep Slopes 27
* Sensitive Soils and Soils �.rosion Control 29
Facilities and Services 34
* Parks and Recreation 31
* Water and Sewer Service 31
Transportation 34
Development Guide Plan 39
*-Agriculture . 39
* Rural Residential 40
* Urban Residential q.0
* Commercial 41
* Institutional 41
* Conservancy 41
* Shoreland Overlay 42
* Floodplain Overlay 42
IV. Implementation 43
4fficial ControLs
* Zoning and Subdivision Reguiations 43
* Sewage Treatment 44
Capital Improvements Program 45
Administration 42
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LIST OF FIGURES
F�� Title Following
P-�-e
1 Regional Location �
2 Land Use - 1992 �
3 Agricultural Preserves 4
4 Depth To Bedrock 6
S - Surficial Geology 6
6 Floodplain Areas
7
� Vermillion River Watershed '
7
8 Existing Water Service . -
9
9 Existing Sewer Service
9
10 Transportation Characteristics
12
I 1 Sensitivity of Prairie du Chien
Aquifer 24
12 Water and Sewer Service
Staging �2
13 Thoroughfare Plan
38
14 Development Guide Plan
42
LIST OF TABLES �
a e �� ��
a
� Historical Population Trends 4
2 Age Composition: 1990 5
3 Housing Type: 1990 6
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PLAN BACIiGROUND
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Empire Township adopted its first comprehensive plan in 1977 in response to
requirements of the Metropolitan Land Planning Act of 1976. The fust plan
emphasized the importance of maintaining the rural, agricultural character of the
township. In 1981, minor revisions to the Plan were approved, which strengthened
the original plan's intent to preserve the township's rural character and agricultural
base.
Empire Township is located in central Dakota County (see Figure 1). While still
considered to be part of the Rural Service Area. as defined by the Metropolitan
Council, it is contiguous to several rapidly developing communities. The area may �
face increased development pressure, particularly from the west, in the next 20
years. The township is also located in the Final Major Airport Search Area
identified by the Metropolitan Council. These are the two major reasons for the
township to initiate a review and evaluation of the existing Comprehensive Plan.
This Plan replaces the Plan approved in 198 L
Authority and Governaace
_ - -
Empire Township has authority under Minnesota Statutes 368.01 to conduct
planning and zoning activities as an "urban town". The township is governed by an
elected Township Board of Supervisors, consisting of three members. The
Township Clerk undertakes many of the administrative responsibilities an behalf
of the Township Board. The Planning Commission, which consists of five
members appointed by the Township Board, advises the Board regarding planning
and zoning activities within the Township. _
Issues and Philosophy
This Plan is the result of extensive effort on the part of the Township Board and
Planning Commission. The Plan is intended to reflect the values and goais that the
Township's residents view as important, and to establish a sound direction for the
future development of the Township. It is felt to be particularly important that a
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sense of community continue to be deveIoped among the township's residents. This
Comprehensive Plan is expected to play an important role in that respeet, by
providing a basis upon which decisions may be made toward providing the
facilities and services necessary to foster a community identity. �
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� � � � st mrM�s arwu �
Figure 1 Regional Location � �
� � . IINw(lAI) I . .
� Utt�tihti . .
� .. � I � RI/RNt i n�K I:Hllvf �_ � . �
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EXISTIN�
�ONDITI4N S
♦
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The basis for development of the Comprehensive Plan lies in the trends, patterns
and characteristics of the Township and its residents. It is important to understand
"where we are" and "where we have been" in order to know "where we should go".
This section of the Plan provides basic information on the Township that is needed
in order to make correct decisions regarding development within the Township and
services needed to support the direction desired by the residents.
Land Use
The primary land use in Empire Township is tilled agricultural land. Second,ary
uses include untilled agricultural land (e.g., pasture) and single family residential.
Figure 2 identi�es land uses in the Township, based upon a survey conducted in
1991. Commercial and industrial uses are very limited at this time,dispersed
throughout the township on small parcels. Existing commercial or industrial uses
are generally related to rural/agricultural activities.
A significant portion of land in the township is under the ownership of the
University of Minnesota, designated as the Rosemount Research Center. The
property, which consists of about 4,64Q acres, is primarily open or agricultural
land. The University has owned the property since after Wortd War II. It is
anticipated that the land will remain under University awnership. The township
does not have land use authority over property owned by the University;however,
about 300 acres in Empire Township is scheduled to be purchased by Dakota
County, contiguous to the County's proposed Resource Recovery Facility in the
City of Rosemount. In the event this land is purchased, or other land is sold by the
University to other parties, Empire Tawnship will have�the ability to exercise land
use controls on the property at that time.
As stated previously, land use in Empire Township is dominated by agricultvral
use. Since the passa.ge of the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves Act (Chapter
473H) in 1980, Empire Township has actively participated. It continues to be a
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EMPIRE TOWNSHIP
� Agriculture/Undeveloped oAtcorA couriTtr. MirrNEsoTA
a Farm Dwelling Figure 2
� Non-Farm R�sidential Land USe - 1992
� � Commercial (
C7 C�
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O Public/InstitutionaI
� Private Recreational
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policy of the township to encourage the use and improvement of its agricultural
lands for the production of food and other agricultural products. Most agricultural
land in the township is certified as eligible under the Act, having been planned. and
zoned at a maximum residential density permitting no more than one unit per 40,
acres. Land currently certified eligible for agricultural preserves statvs, as well as
land currently participating in the agricultural preserves program, is identified in
Figure 3.
Population and Housing .
Empire Township is located in the most rapidiy developing Gounty in the Twin
Cities Metropolitan Area. While the township increased its population by nine
percent over the past ten years, Dakota County grew at a rate of over 30 percent
. from 198Q.to 1990. Cities adjacent to the township, particularly Rosemount,
Lakeville and Apple Valley, have grown at rates in the past ten years of 40 to 60
percent. There has been fairly steady expansion and growth in the township;
however, there are expected to be increased pressures for mare growth in the
township in the next 10 to 20 years.
In 1$70, Empire Township has a pogulation of 995 people. The population showed
a decline until the 1950's. At that time, the population began to show a steady
increase to the present. Population and household trends and forecasts for Empire
Township are shown in Table #l. Forecasts are from the Metropolitan Council.
TABLE#1
Historical Population and Household Trends
Empire Township
YEAP 1870 1920 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010
POPULATION 995 646 473 714 1,136 1,22b 1,340 1,500 1,700
HOUSEHOLDS 3b0 426 S00 590
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LEGEND Figure 3
� Designated Agricultural EMPIRE TOWNSHIP
Preserve DAKOTA COUNTY, MiNNESOTA
Agricultural Preserves
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�s�e N^CtKdfR CQ H/�MHI110 OER.
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Employment in the township in 1990 was 167; forecasts for the year 2000 are 230,
� and 260 for the year 2010. The age composition of residents in Empire Township
in 1990 is shown in Table #2. A comparison is also made with Dakota County as a
whole, based upon percent of the total.
TABLE#2
Age Com�sition: 1990
Empire Township
% of Dakota
A�e CategorX Male Female Total Count
0-5 80 61 10.5 11.1
6-1� 118 109 17.0 13.2
14-18 47 58 8.0 6.6
19-24 49 47 7.0 8.0
25-34 122 111 17.4 21.4
35-44 103 99 15.0 17.2
45-59 - 103 105 15.5 13.4
60-69 37 30 5.0 4.8
70+ 27 34 4.6 4.3
Total 686 654 . 1�0.0 100.0
As indicated by the data in the table, Empire Township has a larger percenta.ge of
residents in both the lower age groups and the higher age grougs when compared
to the County. This reflects the fact that younger adults tend fo be attracted to
urban areas and areas that offer higher density housing (apartments) that are
typically not found in the rural areas. This is illustrated.by Table#3, which shows
the housing type in the township, in comparison to the County as a whole. As
indicated, a large majority of the housing units in the township are single family
when compared to the County as a whole. On the other hand, multi-family units
represent a significant portion o�the units in the County, but are almost
nonexistent in the township.
5
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TABLE#3
H-°us� �-T—YP�' 1990
Empire Township
TYPe of Units
- � Mobile
Sin�1e 2 3-4 5+ Home Other
Empire Twp. 92.7% 2.1% 1.2°I'o 0.3% 2.8% Q.9%
Dakota Ca 71.5°l0 1.6% 2,0% 20.61 3.7% 0.6% '
� There were 44� housing units in 1990 in the township, with almast 9� percent
owner-c�ccupied. This compares to about 74 percent for the County. Future housing
units in the Township will be predominantly single-family. Oniy four percent of
the units were counted as vacant; a similar percentage to the County. 'The a�erage
home value was reported as $g(,(pp� �,�,hile the County was $95,900. Average rents
were $444 per month in Empire Township and $SQ3 per month in the Cotznty. In
summa.�'y, Empire Township would appear to be a fairly typical rural community
with a stable population and housing base,
Natural Features
Empire Township has a variety of natural features, including some exeellent
farmland, roiling hills, floodplains and wetlands, and wooded areas. The
Vermillion River valley floor is low and flat. The elevation difference from the
river to the surrounding farn�land is slight,resulting in higher water tables and
extensive wetland areas, As the valley floor begins to rise, there are numerous
short steep slopes with accompanying outcrops of St. Peter Sandstone. If there are
no outeroppings, there is usuauy relatively shallow soil caver over the bedrock, as
indicated in Figure 4. The surface geology is shown in Figure 5. Both the bedrock
and surface geology are important to identify in order to understand the occurrence
and movement of groundwater in the township and county, as both are important
sources of groundwater. The depth to bedrock is also an important consideration
affecting land uses, including determining exeavation costs, designing sewer
6
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LE6EN0:
SCALE: 1 inch = 5000 feet
�Non-s i ac i a� Organ i c Depos i ts
�FtoodPiain AI luvium
�Des Mo i nes Lobe M i xed G I ac i a 1 Outuash
�Super i or l.obe G i ac i a l Outuash �j�,j,�(; S
�Pre-Late W i scons i nan 61 ac i a t Dr i f t, Outuash, and T i I I
�"OId 6ray" Cafcareous Tili
�e��''o`k Surficial Geology
SOURGE: Dakata County Plannin9 and Program Management, Oakota County, Minnesota, 1991.
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systems and planning landfills.
The surface geology in the township is dominated by either Superior Lobe or Des
Moines Lobe Glacial Outwash. The Des Moines Lobe consists of Ioamy sand and
gravel that is generally poorly-drained, while the Superior Lobe is primarily gravel
and sand that is well-drained. A third type, the "Qld Gray" Calcareous Till is -
primarily sandy to clay loams that are generally weli-drained.
In addition to the surf'icial geology and bedrock concerns that should be addressed
with regards to future development; Empire Township has other areas that have
potential development constraints that will require attention. Floodplains in the
township are identified in Figure 6, as determined by the Department of Housing
and Urban Development's Flood Insutance Rate Maps. Regulations regarding
shoreland and floodplain areas that supplement the township's zoning regulations
are in effect and administered by Dakota County. Areas of jurisdiction include all
identified floodplain areas in the Township.
__�_ Empire Township is a member of the VertnillionRiYer Watershed Management -'
Cotnmission, established in 1984 to address surface water issues within the '
watershed (Figure 7). The purpose of the Commission is to provide an
organization to preserve and use natural water storage and retention of the
Watershed, as set forth in the Metropolitan Surface Water Management Act . The
Commission is also responsible for insuring that jurisdictions properly and
consistently implement local water management plans. Where issues concerning
more than one jurisdiction cannot be resolved through efforts at the local level, the
Commission will act to settle such issues at the request of the jurisdictions.
Empire Township does not currently have a surface water management plan. The
Vermillion River Watershed Management Commission has prepared a Plan that
addresses surface water management needs throughout the watershed. Empire
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NOTE: Fiood ploin locotions orig inated frorn Flood Insuronce Rote Mops publisheG by the U.S. Depvrtment
, of Housing and Urban Deveiopment.
SCALE: 1 inch = 5000 feet
Figure 6 Floodplain Areas
SOURCE: Ookata County Plonning ond Progrom Manvgement, (�okota Gounty, Minnesoto, 1991.
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BOUNDARY
. . . � � ,/� � � �.,AIII..� � � . � NptTN .. � . . . . � � . . . . . . . . . . . . � . .
, ,M , � Figure 7 �
�.
Vermillion River Watershed
Source: Vermillion River Watershed M�nagement Plan .
` �
Township feels that there may be more specific issues impacting the township
related to surface water management that the Township may wishto address in the
future. Therefore, the township will continue to evaluate the programs and projects
proposed by the VRWMC, and develop positions and options appropriate to the
long-term objectives of the township. Such options will be supported through
documentation and policies consistent with the Comprehensive Plan of the
Township. . . :
Community Facilities and Services
At the present time, Empire Township's public facilities and services consist of a
town hall, a bike trail on TH 3 from 194th Street to the Farmington city lunits, and
:water and sewer service that supports selectec}areas of development in the
Township. As the township continues to grow, it is expected there will be a need
to invest in facilities such as park and recrea:tion areas, as well as expanded water
and sewer services. Providing sufficient infrastructure to support anticipated
development in the township is an issue that is further addressed in the next section
of the Plan: _
At the pre,sent time, police protection is provided. by the Dakota �ounty Sheriff s
Department. Service is provided by 24 hour patrol and emergency cali service.
This service is presently adequate for current and anticipated growth in the
township.
_ Fire protection is provided by the Farmington Volunteer Fire Department. Service
is anticipated to be sufficient to meet future growth in the township,
Park and recreational faeilities in the township consist of tennis_courts, a picnic
area and shelter, and ball fields located at the town hall. A wayside rest area is
located at TH 3 and 170th Street, at the state weigh station. There is one
privately-owned goif course in the township.
8
. , .
'I'he township residents are served by schooLs within the Farmington and
Rosemount School Districts. There are no schools located in the township.
Students are bvsed to the appropriate schools in either Farmington or Rosemount.
Central sewer service is currently provided to residents in developed areas along
TH 3 south of 190th Street. Existing lines connect to the Empire Treatment Plant,�~
operated by the Metropolitan Waste Control Comrni�.�ion. Central water service is'
provided to homes in developments alang TH 3, between 190th Street and 205th
Street. Existing water and sewer services are identified in Figures 8 and 9. There
_ are currently no private wastewater treatment plants in Empire Township, nor are
they allowed in the Township.
In 1992, approximately 225 households were served by public sewer and 170
households served by central water service. Hov.seholds and estimated population
served by each MWCC Interceptor line are as follows:
1992 1992
: : Population - `_ Househoids
Served _ Served
Apple Valley/L,akeville
Interceptor#74-09 500 � 166
Farmington
Interceptor#71-03 17$ 5�
578 225
Estunated sewer flows to both l�I�VCC interceptors in 1990 was about 58,000
gallons per day from households in Empire Township. Tota.l projected sewer flows
for both interceptors to the Empire Treatment Plant are 26-28 nullion gallons per
year for the year 2000 and 29-32 million gallons per year in the year 2010.
Empire'T�wnship is currently in the process of accwnulating funds in anticipation
of the need to construct a water tower to provide water service at a fiiture date to `
the area south of the Vermillion River. Funds are currently placed in a dedicated �
9
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Figure 9
Existing Sewer Service
-- --- Existing Line
O'� Line Size �
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• � I Existing Lift Station ��
� �
• RESOURCE
STRATEGIES
• CORPOR�.TION
. �
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account. Needs analysis and feasibility studies will be conducted that will identify
a timeframe for providing additional water capacity in the Rural Center of the
Township.
The Empire Wastewaster Treatment Plant currently experiences excessive
inflow/infiltration of groundwater and surface water. Empire Township has
adopted an ordinance that prohibits discharges into the sanitazy sewer system, and
provides penaities for violations.
Transportation � '
Road functional classifications and other transportation-related characteristics in
Empire Township are shown in Figure 10. Minor arterials (CSAH 66, TH 3 and
TH 50) are intended to connect major development centers. Spacing is generally
about five miles apart in rural areas, Collectors, such as Blaine Avenue, connect
neighborhoods and small business areas, l'hey generally provide service to local
areas and connect minor arterials, other collectors and Iocal streets. Spacing in
deve�oping areas and rural areas is generally one to three miles. Local roads in the '
. .
� township provide for property access and serve immediate access needs.
The County Road Turnback Program was established by Dakota County to insure
that roads within the County are maintained in the most efficient manner by the
most appropriate jurisdiction. Turnback candida.tes are evalua.ted based upon the
following criteria: .
* Traffic Volumes -- Roads which accommodate a low level of Countywide
use, as shown by:
- Volumes lower than 4t30 Average Daily Trips in rural areas,
- Volumes lower than 1,000 Average Daily Trips in urban areas,
* Route Continuity -- Roads which area:
- Very short in tota.l length (less than 3 miles)
10
- Discontinuous segments {less than 3 miles of direct rnovement).
- Lacking a connection to a County or State arteriaL
* Spacing -- Where the distance between parallel County roads is closer
than:
-Two miles in urban areas. \
- Three miles in rural areas, depending upon the nature of the roads in thel
area.
* Access -- Roads whi.eh serve access needs that are limited to local
intersectioris, and where the functions of serving major activity centers,
metro highway systems or a farm-to-market service are not involved. :
The Turnback process is based upon agreement by the County and the a€fected
local jurisdiction. Following are the general terms included in a Tumback
agreement for townships:
1. The County and Township agree on compensation and work necessary
before turnback.
2. The County will provide a descriptian of property.
3,-The County agrees to maintain the road for two years aft�;r adoption of an.
of�cial Turnback resolution by the County Board; therea.fter, all
maintenance and other responsibilities are the Township`s.
4. The Township agrees to hold the County harmless and understands that
the County has met all obligations for the road.
Potential road turnback candidates in Empire Township, as identified by Dakota
County, are shown in Figure 10. Target dates for tlunbacks have not been ' �
specifically identified..
Traffic cou.nts (1988 data) are shown in Figure 10. Prajected counts, as identified
in the Draft Dakota County Transportation Plan, are aLso indicated. Based upon the
County data, there do not appear to be significant traffic count increases
11
� ,
anticipated for most roads in Empire Township in the future. These issues are
addressed in the Development Guide and Policies section of this Plan.
12
�i s . . � . . . .
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`� ....__. .. �-: � � �f�� !-- � /63 - _ __ — - - _ � �__"
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�p • a:�E� ui.. . _1 ----
�r _�i_ruu "-� — _ �.. ._ _.. .._ - �..
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j --�N.II�N_.tt. � 00 3550 25 O .... ;�- Z ,
1 p """ ' ` . 1 ••- 1 1 '' �
. _ . • . . � . .. . � �
Figure 10 EMPlRE TOWNSHIP
DAKOTA COUN7Y,MINNES07A
�■s Minor Arterial Transportation Characteristics
• • • • Collector
,�._..,,- ��J
� ■� r Potential Turnback �0��
�o 0 19$8 Traffic Volumes
. �
TOWNSHIP GClALS
AND
GUIDE PLAN
The Empire Township Comprehensive Plan is a long-range policy document that
will serve as an official document and as an advisory tool for elected. and appainted
officials, as well as residents, in managing growth and development in the
township. This section of the Plan contains statements of township goals,
objectives and policies that will be followed to guide township gmwth and
development. The Development Guide Plan and a Thoroughfare Plan are also
included.
TOWNSHIP GOALS and POLICIES
The goals, objectives-and policies outiined in this section of the Pian are intended
to be the foundation for a number of programs,actions and growth decisions
implemented by the township. Goals which the township feeLs are important to
identify in order to establish a basic direction as to where the township sees itself
in the next 10 to 20 years are as follows:
TOWNSHIP GOALS
A. Development - _ ,
* Preservation of the rural character of the township,while meeting tbe
urban development needs within the designated Rural Center.
* Continuation of agriculture as the primary land use in the township.
* Orderly and balaneed development that is consistent with the
tawnship's rurai c�aracter.
* Compatibility among different land uses.
* Availability of housing types and densities for all ages, income leveLs
and ethnic backgrounds
* I}eveiopment of a commerciai service focai point for the township
B. Environmental Protection
* Conservation and protection of unicque and sensitive natural,
historical and pbysical resources
13
* Minimization of environmental impacts resulting from development
while encouraging opportu�hes to enhance the township's tax base
C, Transportativn
* Ease of movement in a safe manner through an effieient and accessible
transportation system
- D. Facilities and Services
_-- * Balance and cliversity of community facilities, serviees and -
opportunities for those living and working in the township
E:Governance
* Representation of the township an issues related to county, regional,
state and adjacent communities that have the potential of impacting
t�te tong-term goals of the township
* �ound, responsible fiscai management based upon a stable, baianced
- tax base _ ,
_ , _
* Informed residents that have the opport�nity to offer input and have
access to township government activifies
Policy areas that the township has identified.as important to address are:
* Rural Center '
* Agriculture
* Residential
* Commercial
* Industrial
* Environmental Protection
* Transporta.tion
* Facilities and Services
14
RURAL CENTER
Over several decades, the southwest portion of Empire Township has developed in
a relatively urban manner, including a limited number of commercial uses and
smaller residential lots served by public water and sewer. Historically, the area has
not been recognized for its "urban service area" characteristics because of its
locatian in the Rural Service Area as defined in the Metropolitan Development andl
Investment Framework Guide. Empire Township has, however, been responsible '
in providing the necessary urban services, such as water and sewer, to residents in
the developing urban area.
Empire Township feels it is important to recognize this particular area of the
Township for its "urban service" qualities, while still maintaining a rural-oriented
focus for the Township in the future. Designation of this area as a Rural Center,
according to the definition and policies established in the Metropolitan
Development and Investment Framework, will allow the Township to continue
providing the neeessary level of services to the urban-density land uses found in
this area. The area designated in the Township as Rural Center is identified in the
Development Guide Plan (Figure 14}. _ ___
The designated Rural Center consists of approximately 940 acres, or about four
percent of the total area of the Township. Approximately 1$I t 170 acres} of the
land in the Rural Center is currently deveioped, primarily for residential use.
Undevelopable land (e.g. flood:plain areas) accounts for about 13°b (about 120
acres), while the majority remains available for development(69°b, or about 650
acres). _..
Current developments approved by the Townshi will result in an additional 90
P
acres being developed with sewered residential lots over the next 10-15 years.
Figure 12 indicates the area to be served by sewer, as approved by the
Metropolitan Council, to the year 2040.
15
'Figure 14 identifies proposed long-term designated land uses in the Township. All
urban-related" land uses requiring urban serviees will be contained within the
Rural Center, as indicated in Figure 14. Following is a brea.kdown of proposed land
use types, by approximate acreage, within the Rural Center:
Designated Land Use �PProximate Approximate
-- Pro�osed Acreage Current Acrea�
Agriculture ^ . 310 507
Rural Residential ! _
110 -15 - ,_.
Urban Residential 358 270
Commercial 20 6
Institutional 22 �2
Undevelopable 120 120
T�TAL 940 940
AGRICLTLTURE
��je_�tives
1. Promote Iong-term agricuiture on iands having commercial agricultural
value.
2. Continue agricultural preserves in areas with strong agricultural potentiaL
3. Prevent 1and use conflicts that discourage agricultural investment or '
encourage development speculation. .
Agriculture is critical to the eha,racter and economy of Empire Township. It
repres�nts a Iarge majority of the land use in the township, with about one-half the
eli ible certi�
g ed land current
ly artiei atin in the
P P € Agncultural Preserves program.
Although rural areas are best suited for agricultural purposes, the greatest threat to
16
farming operations is encroachment of non-farm development. Problems
assc�ciated with incompatibility between agricultural and urban land uses include
service complaints, assessments for urban services, higher taxes an farm property,
and noise or odor complaints.It is the purpose of this Plan to encourage and guide
non-farm residential development away from prime agricultural areas, into areas of
the township that offer or are scheduled to offer nece;ssar3' support services, such as
central sewer and water. Township land use regulations will also be enforced to
support farm operations on prime agricultural lands in the township.
Examples of land uses apprapriate for the agricultural area are animal boarding
facilities, sod farms, crop production, and recreational open spaces. Cc�mpatible
uses include single family residences at a maximum density of one dwelling per 40
acres and other operations nonmally associated with fanming.
Policies
* The township will support and encourage incentives that will maintain and
increase farming operations in the township.
* Non-farm residential development will not exceed one non-farm dwelling
per quarter-qua.rter section.
* The township will support voluntary enrollment of land in the agricultural
preserves program.
* The township will not allow development that requires public services and
utilities in the agricultural area, and will discourage development that
promotes speculation in agricultural areas.
* The township will promote "best management practices" for farmiand in
the township, in order to insure that soil erosion and water quality
standards are maintained.
17
RESIDENTIA►L
'ect'�
1. Create and maintain living environments that are compatible with the
natural environment and consistent with the rural character of the
township.
2. Insure that the existing housing stock is maintained in a safe and healthful
manner.
3. Protect residential areas from adverse and incompatible uses.
- - 4. Insure a vari�ty of h�using �ypes and densities that promote diversity,
consistent with the Township Development Guide Plan.:
Residential development is presently concentrated in the southwestem part of the
Township and along roads in the township that afford convenient access for
residents. In addition to agricultural areas that are more suitable for farming, there
are other areas in the township that are not desirable for residential development.
These include areas with steep slopes, wet soiLs and floodplains, and bedrock either
. exposed or with little soil cover-. The natural resources found in the township place
- _
some limitations on development, and must be taken into consideration when
evaluating future development propasa.ls in the township,
Concentrations of development along major roads, such as TH 3 and CSAH 66,
present potential safety hazards. There is a need to insure that access is limited,
where necessaxy, in order to accommodate posted road design speeds in a safe
manner. Also, residential development in a concentrated manner on smaller lots
pos�s potential problems from the standpoint of highway access and groundwater
contamination. It is recognized that it is important to pIan for appropriate
residential development in the township in order to prevent the need. to provide
premature urban services that result in higher tax rates for agricultural Iand.
Policies
* In areas not served by central pubTic water and sewer, single-family
18
r <
housing will only be considered for residential development.
* All homes in the township not served by central sewer will be required to
be served by a primary drainfield system in conforrnance with Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency standards. Assurance must also be provided that
a replacement drainfield can be provided on the site shoutd the original '
system fail. Lot sizes shall be a minimum of one acre, but of sufficient size
to insure that sufficient area and adequate soiLs exist for an alternative
drain�eld site.
* In the designated Rural Center, lot sizes served by central sewer service
shall be a minimum of 15,000 square feet, designaterl as "Urban` �
Residential" in the Development Guide Plan.
*Development along major roads will be restricted,and will be subject to
the Dakota County Access Spacing Guidelines, as identified in the Dakota
County Transportation Plan. When appropriate, service frontage roads in
newly developing areas may be required.
* Dividing of a parcel of land into more than one lot will require platting.
Building permits on lots of ten acres ar less shall only be issued for iots
that have been platted and conveyed by a registered survey.
* The Township will require Development Agreements for all subdivision
developments to insure the goaLs, objectives and regulations of the
township are met.
* The Township encourages housing availability to all persons, regardless of
race or religion.
COMMERCIAL :
Objectives
1. Insure that the convenience shopping needs of the township's residents are
addxessed in the future.
2. Maintain the rural character of the township while supporting agricuitural
service-related businesses.
19
. .�
With the growth in the township, there is a desire to insure that an appropriate level
of convenience shopping opportunities are available to township residents. Issues
such as accessibility, provision of public support services, and compatibility with
adjoining land uses need to be considered. There is a desire to create a central
commercial focal point for the township; this can best be accomplished by
identifying a specific area for future commercial development within the
designated Rural Center of the township, and by controlling future development
along majQr roads, such as proposed CSAH 46, TH 52 and CR 66.
Policies
* Areas appropriate for eommercial development to meet the convenience
shopping needs of township residents are designated in the Development
Guide Plan within the Rural Center area. Intensive commercial land uses
that are more appropnate to urbanized communities are not considered
compatible with township objectives.
* In order to insure compatibility with other 1and uses, the township will
- consider the foll�wing in evaluating commercial development proposals:
- Access to the location rnust be conveniently provided by the existing road
system, supplemented if necessary by service frontage roads along
collectors or arterials.
- Traffic studies for the proposed area of development may be required.
- The proposed development wi11 be eompatible with surrounding land
uses. �_
� - A market study for a specific commercial proposal may be required.
- Sewer and water services must be provided to the satisfaction of the
township.
- Commercial strip development shall be avoided.
- A deta.iled site plan will be required for considerafion by the township, to
inclsde, but not be limited to:
20
f X
- A drainage plan
- A landscape plan
- Proposed access points
- Parking requirements
-Signage and lighting requirements � �
* The township will require Development Agreements for �:11 commercial �µ
developments to insure the goals, ob}ectives and regulations of the
township are met.
_ . INDUSTRIAL ,
Objectives
l. Ensure that impacts upon the natural environment and other land uses are
minimized.
2. Maintain the option to take advanta.ge of opportunities to attract industrial
development to the township that is appropriate to the rural character of the
township.
Industrial development in the township is very limited. Typically, this type of
development is associated with more urbanized areas 6ecause of the demands for __
sewer, water, fire protection and road capacities. For these reasons, it is unlikely
that Empire Township will experience any significant industrial development in
the future.
The township recognizes that there may be industrial uses that are appropriately
located in a rural environment. In the event that an industrial use is considered in
the township, the township has established policies to be used in guiding that
decision.
Policies
* Agric�lturally-related industrial uses that result in the manufacture of
products associated with the agricultural area will be evaluated on a case-
21
x �
by-case basis.
* Industrial uses may be required to submit a detailed site plan to include,
but not limited to:
- A drainage plan
- A landscape plan
- Proposed access points
- Parking requirements
-Signage and Iighting requirements
_ * Industrial uses must demonstrate the ability to provide sufficient water and
sewer facilities required to meet the needs of the proposed use, and address
stortnwater runoff issues.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION �
Objectives
l. Assure compatibility of development with the na.turai environment.
2. Conserve the township's unique and essential natural resources.
— 3. Provide for the protection of the township's residents and property from-
naturar and manmade hazards. :
There is a considerable amount of vacant 1and in Empire Township; much of it
subject to various environmental constraints to potential development. The
township has taken extensive efforts to maintain the rural character and integrity of
the township through policies directed at agricultural land preservation and Iow
density development, where appropriate. There are additional environmental
_ factors that need to be addressed in order to insure protection of the natural
resources in the township, surrounding communities and the County. These
include:
* Groundwater supply and quality
* Surface water/stormwater drainage a.rid q�ality -
* Wet soils and steep slopes
* Sensitive soils and erosion control
22
y .
Groundwater Supply and Quaiity
The impact of actions within Empire Township regarding groundwater extend
beyond the township's boundaries. Contamination of groundwater in the township
from herbicides, fertilizers or inadequate onsite septic systems can greatly affect '
the quality of water retrieved from wells in other communities. Alternatively,
indiscriminate use of groundwater supply in more urbanized areas can impa�t the _
availability of groundwater used for private we1Ls and irrigation in Empire
Township.
Dakota County is in the process of completing a graundwater plan for the C'ounty,
required by the Groundwater Protection Act of 1989. The Plan will address issues
such as land use impact on groundwater, water wells and wellhead protection,
groundwater recharge areas, individual sewage systems, groundwater monitoring,
and relationships between groundwater and surface water. It is expected the Plan
will provide the framework to protect the County's groundwater supplies into the
future. The Prairie du Chien aquifer is the most unportant source of groundwater in
the area. Figure 11 identifies areas in the township that have different degrees of
susceptibility to groundwater contamination. The ratings are based on_
_ __ _:_ _
characteristies of the soils that lie over the aquifer. Susceptibility is based upon the
ability of the soil to absorb contaminants, transform them into inert substances,
dilute them to be inactive, or control the rate at which they flow to the aquifer. As
indicated in Figure I l, a great majority of the land in Empire Township is highly
susceptible to groundwater contamination in a relatively short period of time from
when potential contaminants are introduced into the soil. This is an area of concern
for the township, and supports a need to adopt strong policies that will provide
protection of groundwater in the township and the region.
Dakota County has adopted Ordinance#113, related to onsite sewage treament.
The ordinance requires licensing of onsite sewage treatment installers, pumpers,
hauiers, designers, and inspectors. The ordinance is currently in the process of
23
v Y ^
being revised and updated by the County. The Township endorses the current
ordinance provisions as relates to onsite system regulations.
Pol�cies
* Onsite sewage systems will be reguiated through performance standards in
the zoning ordinance, requiring a permit for installation. A sketch map, site
information and type of system will be required. Standards for installation
_ = and maintena.;�ce will be based upon curr�;nt M�'CA Individual Sewage
Treatment Systems Standards, �
* The Township will monitor and participate in activities related to
amendments to Dakota County Ordinance #113, and will conform to
revised provisions related to inspection and maintenance requirements.
* The township wi11 encourage the Building Inspector to maintain adequate
training regarding updated ins��lation techniques and regulations
regarding individual sewage treatment systems.
* Existing individual sewage treatment systems that need to be expanded or
_ ___ . - - _--
replaced will be required to meet the most current MPCA standards, pnly
alternative systems identified in the most current MPCA standards will be
allowed iri the township to replace failed existing systems.
* Empire Township will participate in the Count�s Groundwater Protection
Plan, and consider adoption of policies resulting from that Plan that may be
appropriate to the township.
* New water wells drilled in the township shali be installed in confomlance
� with Minnesota State Code. Abandoned weils wili be required to be capped
and grouted, ui conformance with Minnesota State Code.
* Empire Township will continue to monitor activities at the regional and
state Ievels regarding groundwater supply and qvaiity issues.
24
r � � � � . . � . .
. . � � . � . . . . � � .
58
,
, 81
. -.-�:.-�= _
_-_. :;�:-~
- :`::�::_.--'�-
-- .---:_�._.--��-��:�-�
- _-,��.:
_ ., .._-��::::- `- _
. - :_�:.,�..�-,�-__ -
. � � .. ' =9A, . ^M
. . . . . . - �� � V�
. � � . . .. . . . - � �. _����:5�'� ... .
. . . . . � . _ `�� _ _ . . �
.�.;��'s. �.,:.�--�
. � - . ��----^r�-.`.--`—
� � . . � � '�,�.,, .. ��_� . .
-�>�r=-�-'�'',��.�.,:
�s:
66 . __. 66
f 3 - . .
__ 79 _ 8i .
31
72 )2
i4 5p _ 50
LE6EN0: SCALE: 1 inch = 5000 feet
(�Very Lou Sens i t i v i ty, over a century
.Lou Sensitivity, decades to century �
�Lou to Moderate Sens i t i v i ty, severa t decades �-,l�e l �
�1loderate Sensitivity, years to decades
�H i gh to Moderate Sens i t i v i ty, up to 10 years
�H i gh Sens i t i v i ty, weeks to years Sensitivity of Prairie du Chien Aquifer
�Very H i gh Sens i t i v i ty, hours to awnths
SOURCE: Dakota County Planning and Program Management, Dakota County, Minnesota, 1991.
v 4
Surface WaterJStormwater Drainage and Quatity
A considerable amount of Empire Township is covered by surface water of some
type, dominated by the Vermillion River floodplain or its tributaries {see Figure 6).
Seyeral wettand areas are also found in the township, as well as wet soils, which
will be discussed in the next sectian. Dakota County has primary responsibility for
� enforcement of regulations to protect the Vermillion River through administration
of the Caunty Shoreland and Floodplain Management Regulations. The County
regulations will conform with the tnost current shoreland rules esta.blished by the
Department of Natural Resources, and the Individual Sewage Treatment Standards - -
� of the Pollution Control Agency.
Major concerns as they relate to surface water quality and drainage are improperly
located and regulated feedlots, and chemical pollution and sedimentation from
runoff resulting from inadequate erosion control, dra.inage practices and
regulations.
Nonpoint source pollutants.can be traceci to two primary sources: land
develo�ment and agriculture practices. Urbanized land development generally
increases the volume of runoff, as well as the concentration of pollutants in the
runoff, Detention ponds are a means of mitigating these impacts. Even well-
designed ponds will not reduce the increased volume of runoff following
urbanization, nor will they tota.11y remove the additional pollutants following
urbanization.
AgricuIture is also a contributor of nonpoint source pollutants. Nonpoint source �
poilution occurs as a result of intensive land cultivation and husbandry practices,
and appears in three basic forms: soil erosion; agriculture supplements such as
nutrients, pesticides, and herbicides; and animal waste products. Each of these
sources, when allowed in water bodies, smother aquatic life, change the aquatic
environment by limiting light penetration of the water, and result in the
25
transmission of toxins to area water bodies.
Empire Township, it has already been mentioned, is a member of the Vermillion
River Watershed Management Commission. As a participant, the township has the
opportunity to insure that water management issues in the watershed that may have
an impact upon the township will be addressed in a coordinated and equitable .
manner.
Policies
_ .
: -`* Ernpire Township will prohibit development adjacent to surface water
areas that may cause pollution from runoff or discharge that is not within
limits established by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
� * The township will cooperate and coordinate actions with Dakota County
regarding the enforcement of the County Shoreland and Floodplain
Ma.nagement Ordinanee.
� The township will require, as part of any proposed subdivisions, that the
natural drainage system remain intact.
* Approval of subdivision design will require dedication of drainage
easements and ponding areas adequate to channel runoff generated by a 25
year storm of one hour duration.
* The natural drainage system in the township will be protected and used to
the extent possible for storage and flow of runoff. Wetlands shauld be used
as natural discharge areas. Presettling of runoff wili be required prior to
discharge to_wetlands.
* Temporary storage areas and presedimentation gonds will be required to
accommodate peak flows of water runoff. Newly-constructed stormwater
sedimentation ponds will be required to meet pond design standards ofthe_
National Urban Runoff Program (NURP).
* Empire Township will continue to actively participate as a member of the
Vermillion River Watershed Management Commiccion to insure that the
26
,
interests of the township are addressed in a coordinated and equitable
manner.
* Empire Township will use MPCA's urban "best management practices"
{currently titled "Prote�ting yVater Quaiity in Urban Areas") for all new or
redeveloped, land developments in the township.
* Empire Township will grepare and adopt a local water management plan
and incorporate stormwater managenzent practices into its Township
zoning ordinance, consistent with the requirements of the Vermillion River
Watershed Management Plan and state law,�by December 31, 1993.
Wet Soils and Steep Slopes
Wet soils and steep slopes are generally not suitable for any type of sie�r�lapment.
In addition to the fact that they are environrnentally-sensitive areas, they also are
impediments to development from the standpoint of construction cost and safety.
Steep slopes are very suseeptible to erosion if not properly managed, which may
result in foundation damage. Sewage systems aiso function poorly on steep slopes.
At present, steep slopes in the township are found primarily in agricultural azeas,
and arefairly limited.
Wet soiLs have poor characteristics for structural support and are unsuitable for
onsite sewage systems. They serve the function of storing runoff'from storms or
snow melt; if they are developed, more severe flooding of the watershed is likely.
Wet soi�s are predominant throughout the township, primariiy located along the
Vermillion River and other small drainageways. In addition to development
concerns associated with wet areas, they ser�,e as habitat for various unique.or
endangered species. While there do not appear to be an such s
y pecies in Empire
Township, wet areas should be protected as permanent open space with no
development ailowed.
The Wetlands Conservation Act of 1991 provides the Township with responsibilit
Y
2'7
for administration of the Act, which includes review and approval of applications
for altering wetland areas in the Township. Until July l, 1993 an interim program
is in place that places a moratorium on draining, burning or filling of any wetland
unless the Township agrees to accept responsibility for administering the Act. The
Township has entered into an agreement with the Soil and Water Conservation ��:.
District during the interim period to serve as technical advisor to the Township
regarding review of applications for wetland alterations to includ� determination of
wetiands, wetland certification, wetland size, area of impact, review of
replacement pla.ns, and site review to detemune if a replacement plan is properly
. implemented. _ - -
Policies
* Slopes greater than 18�'o are unsuitable for development and will not be
considered for development.
* Development proposals on slopes greater than 12°lo will be reviewed and�-
strictly regulated under the Township Z.oning Ordinance.
* Dedication of steep slopes for pmtective easements will be strongly
encouraged as part of the subdivision review process.
* The Soil Conservation Service and the Soil and Water Conservation
District will be requested to review proposed subdivisions in steep slape
areas and wet soils areas.
* Err��ire Township will conform to the provisions of the VVetlands
Conservation Act of 1991 in order to ensure the protection of wetlands in
the Township, consistent with the Act.
* Dedication for the protecrion of wetlands will be required, when necessary,
as part of the subdivision approval process in the township.
* VFJet soil protection zones and regulations will be included within the
Township Zoning Ordinance. �
* Empire Township will serve as the Local Governmental Unit regarding
28 �
� ,
administration and enforcement of the Wetlands Conservation Act of 1991.
* The Soil and Water Conservation District will be requested to review all
applications for alteratior�s xo wetlands in the township, and provide
recommendations to the township regarding technieal requirements.
Sensi�ive Soils and Erosion Controi
Erosion results from inadequate farming practices or insu€ficient protection of
exposed soils during construction. It r�ults in the l� of valua.ble tc�pcoil and
clogs drainageways and cu�verts; causes sedimentation that reduces water quaiity,
and reduces storage capacity of ponds and lakes. Converting land from its natural
state or from agricultural uses to more urban uses results in an increase in
stormwater runoff. Careful planning and regulation reiated to conservation of soils,
. water, and natural vegetation can reduce erosion, runoff and sedimentation in
developing areas, lVlineral (sand and gravel) extraction in the township is presentl
limited to one relatively small site in the narthwestern part of the township. y
Extraction sites may potentially produce erosion, sedimentation, and groundwater
probiems if they are not adequately planned and regulated.. The township has not
experienced a�y probtems from such activities; how�ver, performance standards
for this use are appropriate.
Policies
* The township will require an erosion controt plan for proposed
development that provides preventive measures for erosion and
sedimentation.
* In developments that require removal of topsoil, sufficient arable soils
shail be set aside for respreading over the developed area, The soil should
be restored to a depth of at Ieast four inches, and be reseeded as soon as
possible.
* Development proposals on slopes of at least 12-18% will be required to
include measures for preventing erosion during and after construction.
2s
* Development in the township will be encouraged to conform to the natural
limitations of the topography and soil so as to create the least potential for
soil erosion.
* The township will encourage the retention of natural vegetation as part of
..:�
any development. �
* If erosion is resulting from an agricultural operation in the township, the,
Soil and VVater Conservation District should be consulted regarding .,.
. possibie corrective or preventative measures. Standards and
recommendatians of the SW�D will be applied to address appropriate
corrective and preventative tneasures. -
* The township wil! pursue development and implementation of a master
tree planting plan, in eooperation with the Soil and Water Conservation
. District. Standards for planting of trees in new developments will be
established and enforeed.
* The tcwnship will esta�lish performance standards for mineral extraction
operations within the Township Zoning Urdinance and Mineral Extraction
Ordinance.
_
FACILITIES AND SERVICES
Qb jectives
L Provide public facilities and services that support the needs of the
township's residents and are consistent with the staged development
identified in the Deveiopment Guide Plan.
2. Provide infrastructure supporting facilities and services to support urban-
related land uses only to the area designated the Rural Center in the
Development Guide Plan.
3. Provide for assurances that essential public services wiil not be disrupted.
4. Provide facilities and services in a cost-effective manner, consistent with
sound fiscal principles.
30
. i�
Empire Township has developed in the past with an emphasis on maintaining the
rural character of the area. The approach has Iimited the need for the Township to
provide any significant level of public facilities and services to support the needs
of the township's residents. Current facilities include the town hall, a small park,
and limited water and sewer facil�ties serving developing:areas in the western part
of the township. As the township continues to grow, it is important to plan for the
provision of community facilities and services to meet futuren�s�iat result from
devetopment. Although the to��vnship does not anticipate, nor is it supporting,
extensive growth in the future, there are several areas of public facilities and
services that will need to be addressed from a policy perspective.
Par�s and Recreation
The township's single recreation facility is located adjacent to the town hall,
providing tennis, picnic, volleyball and baseball facilities. There has been an
identified need by the Parks and Recreation Commission to provide recreatianal
facilities in Empire Township as development continues to occur. In the future, the
township should prepare for an increased need anri emphasis on open space and
recreational facilities for residents.
Policies .
* The township will require, at its option, dedication of land or cash in lieu
for parks in future subdivision approval requests.
. Water and Sewer Service
The existing water and sewer service areas in Empire Township are shown in
Figures 8 and 9. Service is cu.rrently provided to residential areas and limited
commercial development in the western part of the township, In the future, it is
expected that priority for services will be provided to existing developeci areas in
the township, then extended to areas program�ed for urban residential
development, consistent with the Development Guide PIan. Figure 12 identi�es a
31
. �
conceptual staging strategy for water and sewer service in the township, based
upan the anticipated direction for development as indicated in the Township
Development Guide Plan.
The projected sewer flows for MWCC interceptors#73-01 and #74-09 (identified.
in Fig�re 9) are 26-28 MGY in the year 2000 and 29-32 IVIGY in the year 2010.
Based upon anticipated development activity consistent with the Development .
Gui��P��,�rnpir�Township's share of increased sewer flows compare�l �o
Metropolitan Council's grojections are as follows
1992 Sewered 1992 2000 Sewered 200U 2010 Sewered 2010
� Households MGD HotLsehol MGD Households GD
Empire'I�vp. 225 .058 373 .084 390 .115
Int. #74-09 lb6 .043 314 .070 320 .094
Int.# 71:-03 59 .015 59 .014 74 .021
Met.Council 225 .460 300 080 340 .090
Base� upon the above comparison, it is clear that:Empixe Township must place
some restr-ictions on development of sewered lots within the designated Rural
center, in order to remain within the Metropolitan Council's projections for sewer
flows at the Empire Wastewater Treatment Plant. No additional sewer capacity is
available to the year 2000 for the Township beyond that already allocated by the
Metropolitan Council. Also, the Township has experienced some inflow and
infiltration (TjI} problems in its sanitary sewer system. I/I flows reduce the capacity
of the township's sewer lines, and aiso consume available capacity at the Empire
Treatment Plant. In order to address potential problems associated with IJI, the
township must consider actions aimed at reducing the I/I flows into the sanitary
sewer lines in the Township, and place Iimitations on any further development that
may require sewer connections to the Empire Treatment Plant.
32 _
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r�gure 12 EI1��II'IRE Z'UWNSHIY
VVater and Se�ver Uakota County, n�iN
Stagin� C�ncept ^
Existing Line � �;
. . . � � �/F:'�:;� � . � .
�" Line Size � '� r�i
� Existing Lift Station
�
EtF.St711RCF
"' "' I�ZWCC Intercepfor S r�t.��rt:r,ir:s
Cc�R COR�\T IUN
�"""""' Uesignated Rural Center
,•. .r „•,..,.
� First Priority Service Area •„�� �•
..,..,.,.,..,, .,.,
Second Friority Ser�•ice Area � �
Pol�cies
* The township's priorities for providing water and sewer serviees will be
based upon initially meeting ne�ds in existing developed. areas of the
township, followed by staging of services to future developing areas within
the designated Rural Center area, as deemed appropriate and consistent
with the Township Deveiopment`Guide Plan.
* �xpansion of water or sewer facilities within the designated Ruxal Center ::
� area wil� 'oe conside�ed �y�he Townsnip un�er �he foliowing conditions:
• Upon petition by at least 20% of the affected landowners to
potentially be served, or � _ -
• In the event it i� determined by the Township that the health and
welfare of residents may be affected.
• Conformance to limits imposed on the ma�cimum number of
buiiding pezmits that may be issued to insure conformance with the
regional grojections for sewer flows by Empire Township to the
Empire Wastewater Treatment Plant.
* Priar to committing to any future expansion of services, the township wiil
conduct a feasibility study to determine_the ability of landowners ta pav for
the requested improvements, and prepare a utility staging plan that wiil
identify a time schedule, estimated costs, sources of revenue, and financial
impact upon the township and individual residents for expansion of water
and sewer services.
* Private wastewater treatment plants will not be permitted in Empire
Township. Sewer service will be provided through eonneetions to the
centrai sewer system or ansite sewage treatment systems, consistent with
the Comprehensive Plan.
* In addition to enforcing the I/I Ordinance that prohibits discharges into the
sanitary sewer system, the Township will 'amplement the following actions
to reduce I/I flows into the township's sewer lines, as deemed approgriate
for the particular situation:
33
� -
• Inspect sanitary sewer manholes by December 31, 1993 and repair
cracks, holes and other deterioration. Replace ill-fitting or damaged
castings and covers.
• Locate and disconnect catch basin connections from the sanitary
sewer system.
• Clean and televise sanitary sewers by July 1, 1994, as appropriate,
in order to improve the hydraulics and locate cracks, holes and other
deterioration of the sewers. Repair can be accomplished by grouting
, or insitu forming:
• Flood the storm sewers or ditches in a localized area and televise
sanitary sewers to locate major infiltration sources and possible
cross connections to the sanitary sewers. .
* P+�linimum design standard�s for I/I on the construction of new sanitary
sewer facilities are 100 gallons/day/inch diameter/rnile. All facilities are air
tested to insure compliance. The specifications for pipes,joints, and
manhales are as follows:
Descri tion
� S�ecificarion Join_ t Tvne
, Vitrified C1ay Pipe and ASTM C700 >
Wye Branches ASTM C425
Reinforced Concrete Pipe ASTM C76 ASTM C361
PVC Pipe ASTM D3034 Elastromeric Gasket
Cast Iron Soil Pipe ASTM E-8 ASTM C564
ASTM A-438 Rubber Gasket
ASTM A-126
Manhole ASTM C-478 Gasket
TRANSPORTATION
Objectives
l. Development of a safe and efficient street and highway system that
supports the Township Development Guide Plan.
2. Maintenance of the transportation infrastructure in order to protect the
public's investment.
3. Protection of critical airspace, as defined by the Regional Aviation Plan,
34
r .
from vertical obstructions to aviation.
4. Insure that mobility is available to township residents by encouraging and
supporting a choice of transportation options.
Empire Township is on the fringe of an area that is continuing to experience rapid�
growth and development. As a result, there will most likely be an increasing �
demand fcr new roads and upgrading of existing roads in the township in the
futur�. ?�:b�.are 13 identifies the'T ownship '�'�ar��ohfare Flan. 'I'h�s P�ar� is �ased
upon an a..�,sessment of existing and anticipated needs, and consistency with Dakota
�County's proposed Transportation Plan. - _
As shown in the Plan, several new roads are proposed or in the planning stages that
will impact future development in the township. Increased growth pressure from
the north and west of the township wi11 result in not only additional roacis serving
areas of Empire Township,but will aLso create pressure to open areas for
development in the township. The township will use the Thoroughfare Plan in
conjunetion with the Development Guide Plan, as well as the policies found in this
__ Plan to serve as guide with xegards to future decisions on transportation and _
. .
development issues.
Empire Township recognizes the importance of safety to its residents from the
standpoint of transportation systems. For this reason, the township is committed to
providing bike trails along major traveled roads in the#ownship, to the extent
available to the township. The township recognizes the role of Dakota County as
the major provider of bikeways and their planning, particularly in the raral areas of
the County. The Township Thoroughfare Plan identi�es several priorities for
bikeway construction in the township that would meet the resident's needs into the
future. _
Empire Township is potentially impacted by airports in several ways. First, the
Metropolitan Council is responsible for preparing the regional aviation system
35
.,
, ,
plan. The Council reviews and approves airport long term comprehensive plans
and local comprehensive plans for consistency with the regional plan, including its
policies for protection of the regional airspace.
Second, all of Empire Towriship is located in the region's critical airspace where
incoming and outgoing flights travel. The township's planning polieies are intended
to protect low altitude airways in the regional airspace from tall shuctures, Third,
Empire Township is located in the final major airport search area for the potential
relocation of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSp), pursuant to the
Metropolitan Airport Search Protection Act of 1990, applications for changes in
zoning, zoning variances or conditional use permits are subject to review and
-approval by the Metropolitan Council. Fourth, Airlake and MSP are part of the
regional airspace system. Airlake is located four miles southwest of Empire
Township, and MSP is located ten miles northwest of the township. The
Metropolitan Airports Commission operates, maintains and improves these
facilities.
Policies _�_ _
* Empire Township will work with Dakota County and adjacent
communities to insure that a coordinated and efficient thoroughfare system
that is compatible with Empire fiownship's Development Guide Plan is
implemented.
* Empire Township will discourage planning or construction of roads by
other jurisdictions that are not found to be consistent with the Township
Development Guide Plan and Thoroughfare Plan.
* Performance standards for building setbacks, minimum access separations,
intersection setbacks, driveway setbacks, and clear site setbacks at
intersections wiil be established and enforced in conformance with
requirements and minimum guidelines established by Dakota C�unty for
arterial, collector and local road classi�cations.
36
� '
� Driveway entrances will be a minimum of 16 feet in width, but no wider
than 26 feet, depending upon the use.
* Minimum right-of-way dedications for proposed subdivisions will be as
follows:
Minor Arterial 110 feet
Collector 110 feet �
i.acal 1Zoads 66 feet
* .�r�w towr�sh:p roads �ri11 b� cons�ruct� to a �i.�i:n�,�m capac;ty af seven
tons.
. X �mpire Township will eontinue to work with Dakota Cotznty and other
appropriate jurisdictions to coordinate construction of bikeways identi�ed
in the Towr.ship Thoroughfare Plan.
� The township will develop a plan for implementation of a program for
providing sidewalks in the township. New developments will be required
to construct sidewalks, consistent with the approved plan.
� Tall structures over 500 feet in height will not be allowed in the region`s
critical airspace. Empire Township will evaluate proposals for tall
stru�tures and/or towers under 500 feet on a case-by-case uasis. The basi5
_ __ _ _ _
for approval of such uses will include compatibility with land uses,
consistency with federal and state regulations for na�igable airspa.ce,
consistency with regional plans and policies, and confonnance with
applicable requirements of the Township Zoning Ordinance.
� As the airport planning process proceeds, Empire Township will provide
comments regarding the impact of airport relocation plans on future -
development in the township: .
* An applicant proposing constructian or alteration of a structure that would
exceed a height of 200 feet above ground level shall notify the
Cammissioner of the Minnesota Department of Transporta.tion at least 30
days in advance, as required by Aeronautics Rule 14, MCAR 1.301 S,
Subd.ivision C; and shall present a certified copy of such notifieation to the
37
� y �
township at least ten days before issuance of a Township buiIding permit.
38
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� Fl�re 13 -._ ~_ . �
: �
Thoroughfare Plan EMPIRE T"OWNSHIP
DAKOiA COUNTY,MIP�NE50TA
'��� Existing Primary Network
� � ! t Secondary Roads
_ Q�:�' �1-/
r��Proposed Improvements (Year)
0 O O Projected Traffic Counts (2010)
. > -� ��
The Development Guide Plan identifies in a graphic form the location and e of
g r o w t h t ha t Empire Township wishes to see in the future. It is based u n anal '
po ysis
o f t he bac kgroun d data, the Township's goals and policies, and environrnental
characteristics.
It is the intent that the Development Guide Ptan be used as the primary reference
for making decisions on development by township officials and those wishing to
develop in the townshtp, '1'he Plan will be implemented through enforcement of
Township ordinances and consideration given to adopted policies found in the
Comprehensive Plan. - '
The township has identified seven general categories of tand uses that would be
appropnate for long-tezm growth in the futut.e. ���,e: .
• Agriculture
• Rural Residential
• Urban Residential
• Com.mercial
- ` • Institutional ; : _
• Conservancy
• Shoreland Overlay �
• Floodplain Overlay
These classi�cations are identified in the Development Guide Plan ma Fi ure
14). P C g
AgricuItur� ��
The Agriculture category identifies those areas of the township that are ex ted to
remain m agricultural use far a lon -term �
g period. No water or sewer service wili be
provided. to these areas, since the intent is to keep development of any type that is
not consistent with the rural character of tl:e area to a minimum. Single family
residences will be allowed at a maximum density af one non-farm residence per 40
39
. • ♦ � � � . . � � � . . � � � .
acres. Single family, nonfarm homes must be located on a minimum lot of one acre
with frontage on a public road. In general, commercial uses should be restricted to
the designated Commercial area in the Guide Plan. �ommercial or industrial uses
in the agricultural area may be appropriate in some instances, but will be
considered on a case-by-case basis through a conditional use permit to determine if
such a us� will be consistent with +he rural, agrieulttu-�1 character ef the area, or are
�onsiderec� �� be uses accessory to the existing use.. Sueh uses, if allowed, will t�
terui:�� z� c�:�3er�n to t�� goliciPs in ti�e •^�m�rehens�v� r lan and 3.r�cr:nai�c�
sta.ndards in the Township Zoning Ordinance.
�ural Residential
The Rurai Residential area is established to allow deveiopment at a greater density
thari fhat found in the Agriculture area, but will still allow agricultural activity to
occur. They are basically areas that will, in the long-term future, (beyand the
timeframe of this plan) be available for more urban-related development but, �or
the purposes of this Plan, will not be eonsidered for urban services. Density of
single family development wili be a maximum of four residences per quarter-
auarter section. �Iinimum lot size shall be one ucre, and lots must have frontage ori
a public road. Commerciai uses will be considered in these areas on a case-by-case
basis. .
Urban Residentiai
The Urban Residential area is established where development is expected to occur
and be serviced by public water and sewer (within the designated Rural Center
only}. Single family development will be allowed on Iots of 15,000 square feet,
once public water and sewer are provided. Until water and sewer are provided in
accordance with an approved water and sewer staging pian by the township,
standards for the Rural Residential areas will apply.
4�0
� ..
: . �
C� mercial
A Commercial area identified in Figure 14 has been designated in the Rural Center
area of the township in order to direct those uses and aetivities to one area of the
tawnship in an orderly manner. The Commerciai area will be:developed only upon
the availability of public water and sewer service to the area. Performance
standards consistent with the policies found in the Comprehensive Plan will be
established in the Township Zoning Ordinance.
. Insti�utional
The Institutional classification includes the University of Minnesota Research
Center. The intent of this classification is to provide a pianning category for lands
- that are expected to remain under their current institutional ownership into the
long-term, and which the township does not have any direct land use authority
over. It is possible, however, that events may occur that will result in the
development of some land within the Research Center. If the ownership remains
the same, there will not be a change in the classification.
_ _
If any land is sold to`an owner other than �he University of Minnesota, the
Comprehensive Plan should be amended to reclassify the land to a use that is
consistent with adjoining non-institutional uses.
Conservancv
The Conservancy classifieation includes wetlands, steep slope areas, or other
environmenta:lly-serLsitive areas that the township feels are in need of protecrion.
Generally, these areas are nat readily suitabie for urban development. Agricuttural
production is the most appropriate use in the Conservancy areas, Residential uses
at a density of at least one residence per 40 acres will only be considered on a case-
by-case basis through issuance of a conditional use permit, subject to speci�c
performancP standards found in the Township Zoning Ordinance.
41
,
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Figure 14 �,�.,��e.,2�„oo�o�o,o .�:... • EMPIRE TOWNSHfP
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINtaE50TA
� Agriculture
L�.� Rural Resideiitial Developmellt Gulde PIaIl
f•::Y UrUaii Residenfial
x»�.... ��
� Commercial �L�"'��
� Insfitutioital
� Conser-�ancy
� ' "- Shoreland Overlay
�w� r,_ _ ,_.. ,_. „ ._
. , ,
Shoreland Overlay District
The Shoreland Overlay District consists of areas that are under the jurisdictis�'t of
the Dakota County Shoreiand Zoning Regulations . Shoreland are��e those that
lie within 300 feet of the Vermillion River or its tributa�ies-, as identified in the
County Shoreland Reguiations. Responsibi�ity for administration and regulations in
this District lie with both the.Tovr,Tnship and Dakota County. The more restrictive
regulations wili apply in ail cases. .
Floodpiain Overlay District
The Ftoodplain Overlay District consists of areas in the Township that are
designated as being within the boundaries of the Floodway and Flood Fringe
District, as identified by the Federal Flood Insurance Study for the unincorparated
area of Dakota County. Responsibility for adminislxatiQn and regulations in this
District lie with both the Township and Dakota County. The more restrictive
regulations will apply in all cases.
42
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IMPLEMENTATION
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This Comprehensive Plan has been prepared with the guidance and knowledge of
the Planning Commission and Town Board of Empire Township. It will be adopted
following review by the Metropolitan Council and surrounding, affected
jurisdictions, and only after citizens that wish to provide input have had an
opportunity to comment as part of a formal public hearing process.
Empire Township believes that this Comprehensive Plan will provide a strong
basis upon which to revise and implement its official controls in order to protect
the heaith, safety and welfare of the residents of the"Township. Following is a
description of the methods by which Empire Township intends to implement this '
Plan.
_ ZONING AND SUBDTVISION
The Township is in the final stages of completing major revisions to its exisring
zoning ordinance. The changes being made to the zoning ordinance will reflect
revised policy directions as identified in this Comprehensive Plan. The Township
intends to implement its Plan primarily through the revised zoning ordinance. The
ordinance will have provisions which reflect.the type, loca.tion and intensity of uses
described in the Development Guide Plan and other sections of the Comprehensive
Plan. The Development Guide Plan identifies those lands where agriculture and
other uses will be permitted, and circumstances under which certain restrictions
may be placed on land uses in the Township. Provisions such as performance
standards and conditional use requirements within the zoning ordinance will serve
to limit environmental and other impacts on conditional uses. All development
allowed as a conditional use will take place in accordance with the policies found .
within this PIan. Empire Township is the sole authority responsible for the
enforcement of the Township Zoning Ordinance.
Subdivision of land within the Township will be pertnitted only as regulated by the
Township within its Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations. Residential
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development will be allowed in conformance with the provisions and requirements
of the Zoning Ordinance, consistent with the Development Guide PIan. The
Township Zoning Ordinance will esta.blish performance standards that will address
residential, commercial and industrial development requirements in the Township
as relates to densities, setback distances, and lot size. Dakota County aLso
administers the County Contiguous Plat Ordinance (adopted pursuant to Laws of
Minnesota, 1973 Chapter 416), which places requirements on residential
— development in unincorporated areas of the County and adjacent to County-
designated roads. - - '
Revised Zoning and Subdivision Regulations will be reviewed and adopted by the
Township by December 31, 1993.
SEWAGE TREATMENT
On-site sewage treatment will be the only method of treatment in the low-density,
agricultural area of the Township. On-site systems will be regulated by
performance standards referenced in the Zoning prdinance, in conformance with
most current MPCA regulations (presently Chapter ?080) and County regulations
(Ordinance #113).
The Township Ordinance will reference MPCA and County standards and
requirements for installation, inspection and maintenance of on-site systems. The
Township will issue permits for installation of systems, based upon an application
containing site information and type of system to be installed. Applications and
documentation of final inspection will be kept on file by the Township.
Maintenance of the system will be the responsibility of the owner, but standards
referenced in the Zoning Ordinance will be enforced whenever existing systems
are documented to be a threat to residents health,safety and welfare. Dakota
County is in the process of considering revisions to Ordinance #113. Once
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completed, Empire Township will incorporate, by reference, those revisions into
the Township Zc�ning Ordinance.
Empire Township has designated a Rural Center within the Township, in which
urban types of development have historically occurred. Within this area, public
sewer service is currently available to most households with smaller lot sizes (at
least 15,000 square feet). The Township will continue to provide sewer service on
a limited basis within the Rural Center, allocating sewer connection and building
permits to remain consistent with the projected sewer flows identi�ed by the
112etropolitan Council for the Empire Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The Township has also adopted an Ordinance that prohibits discharges into the
sanitary sewer system, which will result in reductions in inflow/infiltratian flows to
the Empire Wastewater Treatment Plant.
CAPITAL IlVLPROVEMENTS PROGRAM
Empire Township will be preparing a Capital Improvements P1an (CIP) that will
-- identify the timing and location of public facility and service improvements in the
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Township on a five-year basis. Facilities and services to be included in the Plan are
water and sewer facilities within the designated Rural Center, community park and
playground facilities, and Township road improvements. The CIP is anticipated, to
be completed by December 3l, 1993.
ADMINISTRATION
The provisions of the Zoning Ordinance will be maintained and preserved through
the term of this Comprehensive Plan, unless formally amended. Amendments to
the Zoning Ordinance will be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. Any
amendments to the Comprehensive Plan or Zoning Ordinance will be submitted to
the Metropolitan Council for review and approval, as required by State statute.
45