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City Scoop Continued

Dedicated to the sunshine of truth,

the moonshine of meeting deadlines,

and the starshine of Victoria.

The Victoria GAZETTE

MACKENTHUN’S MEAT & DELI

St. Bonifacius  *  952-446-1234

“Trees Are Our Roots”

8099 Bavaria Rd * Victoria * 952-443-2990

Weinzierl

Jewelers

Waconia  952-442-2885

WATERBROOKE

Fellowship

A place where all may experience God in a meaningful and personal way, in Victoria.  952-443-0062

CORNERSTONE Insurance Agency

David Barsness * 952-448-5028

Downtown Victoria * 952-443-2858

Island View Dining

Waconia.  952-442-2956

TOM STRIGEL AND JIM CROWLEY ELECTED

FOR FOUR MORE YEARS ON CITY COUNCIL

         The oath of office was administered by City Attorney Bob Vose on January 12th.  "I do solemnly swear of affirm that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Minnesota, and that I will discharge faithfully the duties of the office of Councilmember of the City of Victoria in the County of Carver, the State of Minnesota, to the best of my judgment and ability."

 

TOM KREYKES ON PLANNING COMMISSION

TWO CANDIDATES APPLIED FOR THE POSITION

         Councilmembers asked questions of two candidates for the Planning Commission on January 12th, Tom Gregory and Tom Kreykes.  That same evening, they followed the recommendation of existing Planning Commission members and staff and appointed Tom Kreykes.

         Said Ben Landhauser, new Victoria Community Development Director, "There was good discussion at the Planning Commission meeting.  They talked after the interviews and said both candidates had good qualities, both had different qualities. 

         "Tom Gregory's long history in Victoria would be an interesting dynamic.  Tom Kreykes has a planning background ... They had a tough time.  Because Victoria is growing quickly, they had a desire to get someone with a planning background.  It was difficult."

         In responding to the various questions from councilmembers, Tom Gregory replied, "I have three adult children and a small business in Victoria the last 20 years, the Victoria Care Center.  I've got extra time on my hands and am looking for an opportunity to volunteer

         "Victoria is a growing community with positive growth.  Much is going on in our downtown.  It would be interesting to be part of the Planning discussions.

         "The former Tony Kerber place would be excellent for higher density.  We're running out of space for higher density.  The 13.5 acres would be mixed use.

         "Balancing pressure from the Metropolitan Council and meeting demands of the community to remain single family housing is an issue.  The community is fairly affluent.

         "There are regulations on the books.  The job of the Planning Commission is to follow those rules and look at areas Council feels we should look at.  The Planning Commission is an advisory role.  Council makes final decisions.  The Planning Commission needs to respect that.  I don't see the Planning Commission's role as steering development.

         "This is a wonderful community.  I've always had a great interest in government and have watched the city work all my life and enjoy participating and being part of the process."

         In responding to the same questions, Tom Kreykes said. "I've lived in Victoria ten years.  It's a beautiful place to live.  I  have a wife and two kids.  I've got time on my hands too.  This is a great opportunity to participate more actively to help guide the vision and draft ordinances.

         "Victoria is a wonderful city of neighborhoods and natural resources.  Doing higher density is to capture the opportunities where they exist and guide the infrastructure. 

         "Strongest risk is special interest working its way into things.  We have to be cautious.  Land development is a passionate thing.

         "The Planning Commission is an advisory group.  It brings forth recommendations.  It takes and looks at what's on the books.  It looks at benefits and impacts to the city.

         "You talk through disagreements and make sure the information is out there.  Ultimately the decision lies with the Council.  You can make things happen through creative zoning.  There are tools in place.  It would be an honor to be part of the Planning Commission and I would enjoy the opportunity.  I feel I have a lot to offer the overall process."

         Said Mayor Tom O'Connor, "Thank you for volunteering.  The pay scale isn't that great.  Either one of you would be fine in the position.  Hope you continue to try and serve the city."

         Other members of the Victoria Planning Commission include James Donadio, Kenneth Goulart, Jeffrey Loeschen, and Derek Gunderson.

 

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February 2015