The Otter Tail County Commission approved a 33-unit campground near Star Lake during its meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 17.
The project faced scrutiny from the planning commission. Concerns raised during the review process included potential impacts on wildlife and wetlands, as well as an anticipated increase in traffic from vehicles and ATVs.
Despite these issues, the decision followed a recommendation by the county’s planning commission to move forward with the project, which will be located west of 32065 380th Street in Dent.
According to an article published by Perham Focus on December 18, the proposed campground conditional use permit was requested by the Ruth Ann Felton Revocable Trust, with property ownership attributed to Wade Felton, according to documents presented to the board.
The conditional use permit application did not include requests for lake access, focusing instead on land development within shoreland zoning regulations.
Land and Resource Management Director Chris LeClair outlined the specifics of the project during the meeting. The plans include the construction of a gravel road and grading for three lots on the property. These elements require adherence to county regulations, particularly regarding shoreland alterations.
The planning commission convened on December 11 to review the proposal and recommended its approval with a set of conditions. These conditions aim to mitigate environmental impacts and ensure the project complies with county standards.
Key stipulations included requirements for on-site consultations with county personnel to address wetland protection, issuance of a septic permit, and obtaining a license from the Environmental Health Department before the conditional use permit becomes effective.
Among the requirements, developers must ensure the campground consists of no more than 33 units and includes one designated storm shelter. Quiet hours are mandated from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m., and any lighting must be designed to minimize impact by being downward-facing.
A vegetative fence along 380th Street is also required to preserve local aesthetics and privacy.
