5.a SHA AttachmentsAttachment A 1
Attachment A – Legal Descriptions
PROPOSED PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT PARCEL DESCRIPTION
TRACT "C"
REGISTERED LAND SURVEY NO. 105,
according to the plat thereof on file and of record in the
office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Washington County,
Minnesota.
EXCEPT Parcel No. 20 of Washington County Highway Right of Way
Plat No. 101.
AND
Part of Lot Thirty-one (31), Auditor's Plat No. 6, in the
Northeast quarter of the Northwest quarter (NE 1/4 of NW 1/4) of
Section Twenty-three (23), Township Thirty-two (32) North, Range
Twenty (20) West, Washington County, Minnesota, as per the plat
thereof on file and of record in the office of the Register of
Deeds of said County, described as follows:
Beginning as the Southeast corner of said Lot Thirty-one (31);
thence North, assumed bearing, along the East line of said Lot
Thirty-one (31), a distance of 581.84 feet; thence West, 110.00
feet; thence North, 375.90 feet; thence So. 76°55'15” West,
577.57 feet; thence South 14°10'45” West, 154.30 feet; thence
along a tangent curve, radius 457.58 feet, central angle 57°18',
concave to the Northwest, 457.59 feet; thence South 71°28'45”
West, along tangent, 173.93 feet to the intersection with a line
150.00 feet East of, measured at right angles to and parallel
with, the West line of said Lot Thirty-one (31); thence South
01°01'30” West, along said line, 330.12 feet to the South line
of said Lot Thirty-one (31); thence North 88°33'00” East, along
the South line of said Lot Thirty-one (31), a distance of
1174.12 feet to the point of beginning; subject to County State
Aid Highway No. 3 and 209th Street, the said tract being
previously described as follows:
All that part of Lot Thirty-one (31) of County Auditor's Plat
Number Six (6) which lies South of the road that divides said
Lot and East of the Big Lake and Scandia road, excepting that
Attachment A 2
part thereof heretofore conveyed to August Svenson and described
as follows, to-wit:
Commencing as the Southwest corner of said Lot Thirty-one (31);
Thence North along the West line of said Lot Thirty-one (31),
Two hundred eighty-seven (287) feet more or less to the center
of the public highway now crossing said line; thence following
the center of the public highway in an Easterly direction a
distance of One hundred sixty-seven (167) feet; thence in a
straight line in a Southerly direction to a point on the South
line of said Lot Thirty-one (31), one hundred fifty (150) feet
East of the Southwest corner thereof; thence West along the
South line of said Lot, one hundred fifty (150) feet to place of
beginning, containing 1.14 acres of land more or less, and also
except that part thereof described as follows:
Part of Lot Thirty-one (31), Auditor's Plat No. 6, in the
Northeast quarter of the Northwest quarter (NE ¼ of NW ¼)of
Section Twenty-three (23), Township Thirty-two (32) North, Range
Twenty (20) West, Washington County, Minnesota, as per the plat
thereof on file and of record in the office of the Register of
Deeds of said County, described as follows: Commencing at the
Southeast corner of said Lot Thirty-one (31); thence North,
assumed bearing, along the East line of said Lot Thirty-one
(31), a distance of 581.84 feet to the point of beginning;
thence West, 110.00 feet; thence North, 375.90 feet; thence
North 76°55'15” East, 112.93 feet to the East line of said Lot
Thirty-one (31); thence South along the East line of said Lot
Thirty-one (31) a distance of 401.46 feet, to the point of
beginning; subject to 209th Street.
Also excepting all that part of said Lot 31 of County Auditor's
Plat No. 6, lying northerly of the following described line,
said line being the existing center line of 209th Street North
and its westerly extension:
Commencing at a Washington County stone monument at the north
quarter corner of Section 23, Township 32 North, Range 20 West;
thence on a azimuth from north of 180 degrees 56 minutes 45
seconds, Washington County Coordinate System, North American
Datum 1983 (NAD 83), along the east line of the Northeast
Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of said Section 23, a distance
of 324.50 feet to the point of beginning of the line to be
described;
Attachment A 3
thence southwesterly a distance of 53.02 feet along a non-
tangential curve concave to the northwest having a radius of
273.13 feet, a central angle of 11 degrees 07 minutes 23 seconds
and whose chord is on an azimuth of 252 degrees 18 minutes 18
seconds;
thence on an azimuth of 257 degrees 52 minutes 00 seconds,
tangent to said curve, a distance of 442.44 feet;
thence westerly a distance of 139.62 feet along a tangential
curve concave to the north having a radius of 310.00 feet and a
central angle of 25 degrees 48 minutes 20 seconds;
thence on an azimuth of 283 degrees 40 minutes 20 seconds,
tangent to said curve, a distance of 53.57 feet to the westerly
line of said Lot 31, and said line there terminating.
Attachment A 4
PROPOSED USE AREA PARCEL DESCRIPTION
Part of Lot 31, Auditor's Plat No. 6, in the Northeast Quarter
of the Northwest Quarter of Section 23, Township 32 North, Range
20 West, Washington County, Minnesota, as per the plat thereof
on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder of
said County, described as follows:
Commencing at the southeast corner of said Lot 31; thence South
89 degrees 31 minutes 15 seconds West, bearings are oriented to
the Washington County Coordinate System, NAD 83, 1986
adjustment, along the south line of said Lot 31 a distance of
416.61 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel to be
described; thence North 10 degrees 41 minutes 40 seconds West a
distance of 138.66 feet; thence North 55 degrees 00 minutes 00
seconds West a distance of 206.00 feet; thence North 14 degrees
45 minutes 46 seconds West a distance of 290.21 feet; thence
North 58 degrees 43 minutes 14 seconds West a distance of 75.76
feet, more or less, to the intersection with the boundary line
of real property described in Warranty Deed, Document Number
319741; thence southwesterly along said boundary line, being a
non-tangential curve concave to the northwest, an arc distance
of 328.60 feet, said curve has a radius of 457.58 feet and a
central angle of 41 degrees 08 minutes 46 seconds, the chord of
said curve bears South 51 degrees 51 minutes 07 seconds West;
thence South 72 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds West, tangent to
the last described curve and along said boundary line, a
distance of 171.21 feet, more or less, to the intersection with
a line 150.00 feet East of, measured at right angles to and
parallel with, the west line of said Lot 31; thence South 00
degrees 49 minutes 14 seconds West, along said parallel line a
distance of 330.37 feet, more or less, to the intersection with
the south line of said Lot 31; thence North 89 degrees 31
minutes 15 seconds East, along said south line a distance of
754.05 feet to the point of beginning.
This parcel contains 6.288 acres, more or less, and is subject
to the right of way of Olinda Trail North and all other
easements, restrictions and covenants of record.
Attachment B 1
Attachment B – Project Description & Narrative
Project Overview
The Scandia Heritage Alliance is proposing to use 6.288 acres of land in the southwest portion of parcel
ID 2303220210002 for a new arts and heritage center. The development would feature the reassembled
historic water tower barn, a standalone restroom building, an amphitheater with a stage and bandshell, a
small parking lot, a small hardscaped plaza, a splash pad water feature, and a food truck for the summer
cafe. In a future phase, the Alliance would like to add a standalone art center building on the site. A small
portion of the parking area, the amphitheater seating, and the stage/bandshell would be within a 75 foot
setback from a wetland to the west. A portion of the water tower barn and the restroom building would
be within the 75 feet from a wetland to the east. The proposed setbacks being located within 75 feet of the
wetlands would require variances to be issued. The development would be built in two phases, with the
water tower barn, restroom building, parking lot, splash pad, and amphitheater being built in phase I, and
the art center building built in a future phase II.
As part of the development of the arts and heritage center, the project would be reviewed and approved
through the Planned Unit Development (PUD) process, which requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP)
to be issued by the City. The PUD will encompass the entire property, which includes the City Hall and
Community Center, the ice rink, and the tee-ball field to the east along Oakhill Road. The City has plans
to build a new playground, replacing the existing one near the tennis courts; this would take place in a
future phase as part of the PUD.
Variance Request
The proposed arts and heritage center project would require variances from required wetland setbacks.
Wetlands flank the proposed development on each side. As Manage I wetlands, a 75 foot setback is
required per Section 6.4(B) of the City’s Shoreland Ordinance. In order to build within the setbacks, a
variance would need to be granted by the City.
The proposed development would provide an outlet to highlight and showcase the art and culture of the
community. The historic water tower building would be reconstructed on the site and included in the
development. In keeping with the goals of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, this project would maintain and
promote the City’s cultural character and history. The proposed layout would minimize encroachments
into setbacks, and would maintain less encroachment than the existing softball field located on the site.
The practical difficulty of the site is that a large swath of the property is occupied by wetlands and
setbacks from said wetlands, and that existing development severely limits the possible conforming
locations. Said wetlands are not man-made, and were not created by the landowner. The proposed project
would not impair the supply of light or air to adjacent properties. By utilizing a property with nearby
existing parking, the proposal would not substantially increase the congestion of public streets. If the
requested variances are granted, the site would not increase the danger of fire, endanger the public safety,
or substantially diminish or impair property values within the neighborhood. Included in the application is
detailed information pertaining to each variance.
Attachment B 2
Planned Unit Development Request – Purpose Statement
The 2040 Comprehensive Plan has an overarching goal to “maintain and promote the City’s cultural
character and history”; what better way to work towards meeting this goal than constructing an arts and
heritage center? It would be an asset to the public, able to showcase the unique art, culture, and local
character of the community to both citizens and visitors. The development would have a unique (by
Scandia standards) design to it, incorporating multiple structures that would typically be considered
‘principal structures’ under the Development Code within a single parcel of land. The development would
have a well-designed site layout incorporating multiple buildings, parking, walkways, outdoor spaces, and
an outdoor amphitheater, all within a fairly small amount of land. Given the limited amount of buildable
space available to use, and the desire to minimize encroachments into setbacks from wetlands, the
development would be set back closer to the centerline of adjacent roads than is typically required under
the Development Code. With its close proximity to the historic village center, Gammelgarden museum,
and community center, the Arts and Heritage Center development would be a natural fit, while helping to
enhance and build upon the aesthetics of the site and surrounding area.
Parts of request varying from current Development Code requirements:
Multiple principal structures on a single parcel of land
Multiple principal uses on a single parcel of land
Setbacks from an arterial road (Olinda Trail) less than 150 feet
Setbacks from a local road (209th Street N) of less than 40 feet - Ice rink, Warming House,
Warming House gravel parking
Setback from side property lines less than 20 feet - portion of Community Center parking,
Playground by tennis courts
Setback from a collector road (Oakhill Road) less than 100 feet - Ball field gravel parking
Phasing / Staging Plan
Phase I
o Spring 2023 (earliest date) to Summer 2024 for Phase 1 completion
o Amphitheater
o Splash pad
o Proposed Parking Area
o Restroom Building
o Reconstruct Water Tower Barn
Phase II
o Dates of construction TBD
o New playground – replacing existing
o Dates of construction TBD
o Arts Center Building
Attachment B 3
Additional Information
Additional information on the following is attached for review by the City:
Operation Plans
Parking Plans
Detailed narrative for Variances
Information on the SHA
Acoustical Study & Report for the Amphitheater
Construction Plans
Stormwater Management Plans
Operation Plans 1
Water Tower Barn – Scandia Arts & Heritage Center
Narrative, Proposed Season/Hours of Operation, Capacity, Number of Events,
Employees, Parking
Narrative:
Scandia Heritage Alliance (SHA) and the
city of Scandia have agreed on a joint
venture that includes restoring our city’s
historic Water Tower Barn to serve as an
Arts & Heritage Center. Built in c. 1895
by Scandia Mercantile owner Frank Lake,
the barn provided water to early
residents and businesses. The iconic
building is believed to be the state’s only
remaining tankhouse, and SHA is working
to seek placement on the National
Register of Historic Places. The Water
Tower Barn will be the central focal point
of the Water Tower Barn – Scandia Arts
& Heritage Center.
Plans for Center include an indoor stage, an outdoor amphitheater, a small bandshell, a children’s splash
pad, a wetland overlook and trails, a summer café featuring traditional Swedish fare, and restrooms.
This beautiful gathering space will celebrate the history, arts, and cultural heritage of Scandia through
museum exhibits, art shows, music concerts, theater productions, arts and environmental classes, and
cultural events.
Scandia Heritage Alliance believes in the power of place. As stated by the St. Croix Valley Foundation in a
letter of support, “When people coalesce around shared values and passions, incredible things can
happen. … The Arts & Heritage Center will provide an environment that will bring people together for
generations to come.” We envision the Center providing a community gathering place where residents
will celebrate stories of our early residents, observe the working engineering of a 19th Century
tankhouse, enjoy the tranquil beauty of our wetlands, and gather to play and enjoy the arts.
The Center is a perfect fit with the City’s Comprehensive Plan, which states: “Scandia is known for its
distinctive character and history. The City’s overall vision is to maintain its rural character typified by the
agricultural heritage and natural resources.” The Center will contribute to 3 of the 4 primary goals
identified in the plan’s introduction:
Maintain and promote the City’s cultural character and history
Maintain and promote … rural character
Preserve and protect the City’s natural resources
Programming Management: Once construction of the Water Tower Barn begins, SHA plans to hire a 0.5
- 0.75 FTE Executive Director to plan events for the upcoming seasons, promote the center, create and
manage the website, write grant applications, maintain relationships with partner organizations, and
provide overall management for the center. In the future, additional seasonal employees may be hired
to work at the gift shop, museum, and summer café.
Operating Budget: Based on our interviews with other small-town cultural centers in outstate
Minnesota and Wisconsin, we expect that our initial operating budget will be under $100,000/year*
once programming begins. We plan to fund operations through ticket sales, memberships, grants, and
summer café sales (25% each).
A “NewCo” Board of Directors: Once construction is complete, we will establish a “NewCo” – a new
charitable organization and board of directors – that will manage the Arts & Heritage Center separately
Operation Plans 2
from SHA. The NewCo board will include one SHA board member in order to maintain a close working
relationship between the organizations.
Season and Operating Hours:
Season of
Operation
Open Days General
Open Hours
Special Event
Open Hours
Number of
Events per
Year
Water Tower
Barn
Museum
/Gallery
April 1- Dec. 31
Plus limited
special events
outside this
season (e.g.,
during
Vinterfest, Ice
Sculpture event)
Wednesday
through Sunday.
(Generally closed
Monday/Tuesday
except
occasional
special events on
these days.)
10am – 7pm 8am - 11pm
for special
events and
space rental
for meetings/
gatherings.
No limit on
indoor
events.
Anticipate no
more than 75
amplified
indoor events
per year.
Summer Café Memorial Day
Weekend
through Taco
Daze weekend
(2nd weekend in
September)
7 days per week 7am – 7pm 7am – 10pm
during special
events such
as Taco Daze
and evening
events at the
amphitheater
and Water
Tower Barn
N/A
Splash Pad Memorial Day
Weekend
through Taco
Daze weekend
(2nd weekend in
September)
7 days per week Park hours –
4am – 10pm
Park hours –
4am – 10pm
N/A
Amphitheater April 1 – Dec. 31
plus limited
special events
outside this
season
7 days per week Park hours –
4am – 10pm.
(Event clean-
up may
extend past
these hours.)
Open until
midnight for
city festival
events, such
as Taco Daze
weekend and
Vinterfest
weekend.
Maximum of
75 amplified
music events
per year.
Non-
amplified
events: No
maximum.
Number of Employees:
Full-time employees:
1, sometimes working remotely
Part-time Seasonal Employees (Memorial Day Weekend to Taco Daze -- 2nd weekend in September):
Operation Plans 3
Up to 6 half-time employees (3FTEs) to staff the Summer Outdoor Café (housed in a food truck) and the
Water Tower Barn museum/gallery.
Anticipated Daily Attendance – Outside of Special Events:
Memorial Day Weekend to Taco Daze Weekend: 25-75 people per day when the splash pad is open and
classes are offered.
Remaining Season: Under 25 people per day when there are no events/classes. When classes are
offered (up to 4 days per week) expected daily maximum is 50 people.
Event and Classroom Capacity
Water Tower Barn events and classes.
60-70 people seated in rows of chairs
50-60 people seated at tables
Amphitheater:
Typical event: 80-150 people
High end: 200 people
Maximum seating capacity: 260 (It is highly unlikely we would ever meet this maximum since people will
leave space between groups)
Parking Capacity
Handicap parking:
2 spots
Total on-site parking:
31 (including the two handicap spots)
Overflow parking for large events:
Utilize Community Center Parking and city lot below Elim Church.
Minnesota Code Allows:*
Concentrated, Chairs only, not fixed, 1 per 7 square feet = 170 people
Unconcentrated, tables and chairs, 1 per 15 square feet net= 86 people at
tables
*See Table 1004.1.2 in Minnesota Building Code
Operation Plans 4
Restroom Capacity
Permanent Restroom Capacity:
Two unisex public restroom toilets accessible from outside for use during barn and amphitheater events.
Both are handicap accessible.
Large Event Restroom Capacity:
Will add porta-potty facilities for events over 200 people.**
***See MN code at https://up.codes/viewer/minnesota/ibc-2018/chapter/29/plumbing-systems#29,
Water closet capacity requirement is 1/65 female, 1/125 male. The average is roughly 100 people per
unisex toilet, meaning that the two restrooms can accommodate about 200 people.
Number of Events
Proposed Number of Events per Year (indoor and/or outdoor)
No restriction on non-amplified events.
Up to 75 outdoor amplified events per year
Anticipate no more than 75 indoor amplified events per year
Anticipate no more than 120 total indoor events per year
Expect that the rate of indoor events and meetings will be similar to the historic numbers at the
Community Center
NOTE 1: Museum, basic art gallery open hours, and classes are not considered “events.” A special gallery
event, such as an opening reception or art sale, is considered an event. Other events include music
performances, theater productions, movie events, and events held by private parties renting the space,
such as groom’s dinners and graduation parties.
NOTE 2: The Water Tower Barn Art Gallery/Museum may be open for guests to visit during outdoor
amphitheater events. However, no separate events or classes will be held simultaneously in the barn
when an amphitheater event takes place. A single event may use both spaces.
Parking Plan 1
PARKING PLAN
As a public amenity, the proposed Water Tower Barn development is uniquely sited within the larger
Community Center area to take mutual advantage of public events. Taken together, the Community
Center, Gammelgarden and the Water Tower Barn sites serve as a public facility, a “central park” as the
central focus of the City. Therefore, not only the facilities but also the parking availability all serve a
common interest. If the sites were significantly farther apart, then the shared use of parking facilities
would not be practical. However, with the proposed sidewalk connection between the Water Tower
Barn site and the Community Center area, parking for larger events can easily be shared.
The City Ordinance does not have parking standards that apply to this type of use, and instead rely upon
a demonstration of parking suitability from the applicant. As proposed, the Water Tower Barn site is
planning 31 permanent parking stalls, two of which are handicap accessible, as required by Code.
Following is the justification for the parking as proposed, in conjunction with the City Center parking
that exists for use during less frequent, large events.
We consulted Scott Israelson, PE, PTOE, from the Traffic Impact Group, LLC to determine what is a
reasonable parking ratio per occupant should be applied to this proposal. While not a full traffic study,
he indicated that the Institute for Traffic Engineering (ITE) does not have standards for this type of
mixed use, and suggested in his experience: “Determine the max number of persons for an event and
then divide by 2.1 [persons per vehicle] and that should give a decent estimate of max parking demand.”
With 31 parking stalls available on site, the math suggests an occupant load of 65 people at any given
hour.
Based upon the operations plan provided by the Scandia Heritage Alliance, there are several occupancy
scenarios to consider:
High-Season: Memorial Day Weekend to Taco Daze Weekend: 25-75 people per day when the splash
pad is open and classes are offered. Note: people per day yields a very low parking demand as the
necessary parking is spread out over the entire day. This equates to only 35 car trips per day, not all at
the same time. Operationally, the 31 stalls would be adequate in this scenario.
Off-Season: Under 25 people per day when there are no events/classes. When classes are offered (up to
4 days per week) expected daily maximum is 50 people. Again, note: people per day yields a very low
parking demand as the necessary parking is spread out over the entire day. This equates to only 12 car
trips per day, not all at the same time. Operationally, the 31 stalls would be more than adequate in this
scenario.
Water Tower Barn events and classes.
60-70 people seated in rows of chairs (such as a small concert)
50-60 people seated at tables, seat banquet or conference style layout (such as a seminar or reception)
Note that the seating for any of three seating arrangements are all substantially below State Building
Code occupancy limitsi
Using an average of 60 people for an event (with classes typically much smaller due to space needs), this
results in 28 parking stalls at any single event, with any potential overflow at the Community Center.
Operationally, the 31 stalls would be adequate in this scenario.
Parking Plan 2
Amphitheater:
Typical event: 80-150 people with a high end: 200 people including 4 wheelchair accessible spaces and
an accessible stage with bandshell
Maximum design seating capacity: 264 based upon 24” per person. Please note that it is highly unlikely
we would ever meet this maximum since people tend to not sit so close together with open,
undesignated seating. Groups of people tend to spread out a bit when there is no assigned seating.
Assuming an average of 150 people, which we believe to be realistically on the high side of average, this
venue would generate 71 vehicles requiring the overflow use of the Community Center parking lot for
around 30 to 40 parking stalls. It has already been stipulated that amphitheater events would need to
be coordinated closely with the City so that two events are not happening simultaneously.
Further Assumptions:
What this analysis does not account for that only improves the parking situation, is the following:
Events are not simultaneously offered on site, doubling demand. Assumptions are based upon
each facility operating at any given, separate time, except the facilities may be open for visits
when other events are held. The exception is that classes or events in the Water Tower Barn
could occur while the splash pad or the open-space park is in use.
People coming for the splash pad will likely have more than 2.1 persons per car – likely families.
Given the location, and assuming the trail system is eventually in place as planned, residents can
access the site on trails from north and east quite easily, reducing demand on the parking lot
Bicycling, and especially eBicycling (electric), will have an impact on reducing parking demand
during the high season in this bicycle friendly community.
For large events, parking control can be established allowing elderly parking and drop-off only in
the lot, and overflow in the community center lot.
If an event is sponsored at Gammelgarden, but hosted at the Water Tower Barn, overflow can
occur on their lot.
Ridesharing applications are not considered, but could reduce some demand.
Summary:
Based upon this analysis, we believe the proposed 31 parking spaces will be adequate for most
circumstances during the high summer season, and all circumstances during the off-season.
iConcentrated, Chairs only, not fixed, 1 per 7 square feet = 170 people
Unconcentrated, tables and chairs, 1 per 15 square feet net= 86 people at tables
Our seating capacity is well below Code thresholds
Per Table 1004.1.2 in Minnesota State Building Code
Variance Narrative 1
VARIANCE FOR SIDEWALKS AND PATHWAYS
(See attached Figure 1 below text illustrating encroachment areas)
(1) The applicant proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the Development
Code.
(A) The hardscape sidewalks, either concrete or asphalt, serve a public purpose for safety and
handicap accessibility to all parts of the site. Connection to the Community Center along
Olinda can only happen along the east side of Olinda to best enable a safe crossing to
Gammelgarden, as well as direct access to the Community Center without crossing Olinda.
(2) The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the
landowner.
(A) The placement of Olinda Trail was not created by the Landowner or the City, but is a pre-
existing condition already within the 75’ setback of the wetland. The geography therefore
is unalterable with respect to the wetland setback through no circumstance created by the
City or the Scandia Heritage Alliance.
(3) The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.
(A) Quite the opposite, the variance will enable improvements in public safety and
ADA/disability access to all parts of the site. Having safe sidewalks and pathways
improves the essential character of the locality.
(4) Economic conditions alone shall not constitute practical difficulties.
(A) Economics do not factor into this variance request
(5) That the proposed variance will not impair an adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property, or
substantially increase the congestion of the public streets, or increase the danger of fire, or endanger
the public safety, or substantially diminish or impair property values within the neighborhood.
(A) As the sidewalks and trails are flat to the ground, there is no impairment to light or air.
The sidewalks do not create congestion of the public streets – quite to the contrary, the
sidewalk along Olinda will keep pedestrians off of Olinda, reducing any pedestrian/auto
interface. Sidewalks will not increase the danger of fire or diminish property values in the
area.
(6) That the requested variance is the minimum action required to eliminate the practical difficulty.
(A) We have positioned the sidewalks in such a way as to consider topographical advantages,
keeping them within the existing level ballfield area atop the small bluff wetland edge.
The alignment along Olinda is shown to be “boulevard style” with a landscape strip
between the roadway and the street edge, and is delineated at the most likely position
Variance Narrative 2
relative to the wetland, and may be positioned closer to Olinda depending on final
engineering design as approved by the City and the County.
(7) Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy
systems.
(A) Not applicable.
Figure 1: Encroachment areas shown in pink dot pattern with approx. setback
Variance Narrative 3
VARIANCE REQUEST FOR TOWER BARN SETBACK
(1) The applicant proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the Development
Code.
(A) The tower barn structure, and substantially the entire proposed development, is presently
positioned within the existing ballfield fence, and not even to the full extent of the
northerly fenceline. The fenced area of the ballfield has long established a reasonable
“development bench.” We believe use of this bench is both reasonable and practical.
(2) The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the
landowner.
(A) The aforementioned ‘bench’ has long existed and was not created by the Scandia Heritage
Alliance.
(B) The site is unusual in its size and shape in that the:
1. net buildable area is much less than for a comparably sized parcel with a wetland
exposure in the city. The total allocated site area, including the portion of existing
wetlands allocated to this site, is 6.28 acres (273,897 SF). The buildable area is only
23,902 SF, representing 8.7% of the total allocated site area. One would expect the
buildable area on a more typical lot of this size to be between 25% to 50%.
2. The actual frontage of wetland compromises the site useablity by having effectively
three of four “frontages” limited by the wetland setback.
3. The net buildable area is very long and skinny making its full use impractical.
Effectively, only approximately 2/3rds of the buildable area is actually buildable based
on size and shape, making the effective area less than 6% buildable.
(C) The actual building encroachment area is 801 Sf, representing a mere 2.1% of the entire
wetland setback area. Well over ten times this amount of setback encroachment has been
returned as the proposed rain garden (9,282 SF), created within this ballfield area along
with structures.
(D)
(3) The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.
(A) Quite the opposite, instead of a tired old ballfield with minimal maintenance, this
development seeks to improve the property for public purpose to amplify the character of
Scandia through the reconstruction of a historic community asset. Every part of this
proposed development is constrained within the existing ballfield perimeter except a
portion of the parking lot (of necessity for site access) and a portion of the stormwater
management system. The introduction of a 9,282SF rain garden within this ball field and
Variance Narrative 4
parking lot boundary improves greatly the existing character and environmental
sustainability of the site.
(4) Economic conditions alone shall not constitute practical difficulties.
(A) Economics do not factor into this variance request
(5) That the proposed variance will not impair an adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property, or
substantially increase the congestion of the public streets, or increase the danger of fire, or endanger
the public safety, or substantially diminish or impair property values within the neighborhood.
(A) The positioning of the structure slightly over the 75’ wetland setback line does not impact
the existing northerly vegetation buffer that is sought to be maintained, since the structure
is proposed to be within the ballfield perimeter that currently has no vegetation. Further,
there are no neighbors (other than turtles and a few birds) that would be impacted, as the
shading from the structure is entirely within the proposed lease line boundary. The
variance does not impact fire or life safety, diminish or impair property values within the
neighborhood. In fact, the restoration of this historic artifact will increase the
attractiveness of the Scandia City Center area plan, and the introduction of a rain garden
improves the environmental performance of the site.
(6) That the requested variance is the minimum action required to eliminate the practical difficulty.
(A) We have positioned the structure entirely within the existing ballfield, with as little
dimension as practical beyond the 75’ wetland setback to preserve the developability of
this property into a community asset. As previously mentioned, the encroachment
represents a mere 2.1% of the entire setback area
(7) Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy
systems.
(A) Not applicable.
SCANDIA HERITAGE ALLIANCE:RAISE OUR HISTORIC WATER TOWER BARN
Executive Summary
The Scandia Heritage Alliance (SHA) envisions restoring the city’s historic Water Tower Barn to
serve as a regional Arts & Heritage Center. Built in c. 1895 by Scandia Mercantile owner Frank
Lake, the barn provided water to early residents and businesses. The iconic building is
believed to be the state’s only remaining tankhouse, and we are working to seek placement
on the National Register of Historic Places.
Plans for the Water Tower Barn Arts & Heritage Center include an indoor stage, outdoor
amphitheater, water play area, wetland overlook and trails, and a summer café featuring
traditional Swedish fare. This beautiful gathering space will celebrate the history, arts, and
cultural heritage of Scandia through museum exhibits, art shows, music concerts, theater
productions, arts and environmental classes, and cultural events.
REGIONAL ARTS & HERITAGE CENTER
Heritage Preserved
The Water Tower Barn –Scandia Regional Arts & Heritage Center
will provide a place to celebrate and share Scandia’s rich
history, recognizing its unique position as home of the first
Swedish settlement in Minnesota.Museum displays will tell stories
of Native American settlements, immigrant agrarian farming, and
Scandia’s successful transition to a small center of commerce.
The restored Water Tower Barn will showcase 19th Century
craftsmanship, including hand-hewn logs in a post-and-beam
structure and an operational tankhouse. An elevated wooden
water tank will occupy the tower, and a windmill will sit atop
the barn’s distinctive cupola. Stepping back in time, visitors will
fill their water bottles using a historic hand pump.
The Story of Scandia and Settlers’ Valley:
Re-Energizing the American Dream
Scandia has tales to tell—from its first Dakota and Ojibwe people to stories of inspired
immigrants looking for better lives. How can their rich sagas educate Minnesotans
about our Native and immigrant roots and the similar experiences our ancestors
share with today’s new Americans? We believe our common backgrounds can
help create cohesive community in divided times –and simultaneously inspire
and bring hope to new immigrants seeking the American dream.
Originally part of Marine Mills, Scandia is one of several communities in the St. Croix
River Valley that formed as new settlers –primarily Swedish –made their way to
communities like Marine Mills, Lindstrom, Taylors Falls, and Chisago Lakes. Drawn to
the area’s abundant lumber, river traffic, and farmland, they populated the area
known as Settlers’ Valley. The Water Tower Barn represents the success of the next
generations as they opened businesses like the mercantile, creamery, bank, and
millinery in the township of New Scandia. SHA aims to collaborate with nearby
communities to develop regional tourism around the story of Swedish immigration.
Celebrating the Arts
Living in the St. Croix River
Valley, we are surrounded by
an amazing arts community
that is not currently showcased
in Scandia. The Water Tower
Barn and an outdoor
amphitheater will bring our
community together for local
and regional art shows, art
classes, music, theater, film,
and school concerts. The
Water Tower Barn will feature
an indoor stage, hosting
up to 80 people, while the
amphitheater will seat up to 260.
Artistic rendering of the amphitheater
Family-friendly Venues
An outdoor amphitheater, splash pad, and summer
café featuring traditional Swedish fare will welcome
both local families and regional visitors. We
anticipate that families camping at William O’Brien
State Park will bike to our facility along the future
Gateway Trail extension connecting the park to
Scandia’s Village Center. The amphitheater will also
be a perfect summer venue for our youth theater
classes; for local elementary teachers to conduct
outdoor classroom activities; for school band, jazz,
and choir concerts; and for outdoor movie events.
Location and Water
Features
The location for the Water Tower Barn
Arts & Heritage Center is perfectly
situated on Olinda Trail just south of the
Community Center and across the road
from the world-class Gammelgården
Museum. The site is surrounded by three
healthy wetlands and has a beautifully
forested backdrop.
The Center’s water focus will provide an
opportunity to educate visitors via
interpretive displays on the importance
of our wetlands, lakes, streams, aquifers,
and the St. Croix River –all vital features
of our beautiful city. Programming plans
include summer day camps for kids
focused on the arts and environment.
Synergy with
Gammelgården Museum
Scandia is blessed with a wonderful
cultural gem –the acclaimed
Gammelgården Museum. The future Arts &
Heritage Center will neighbor the museum,
and the two venues plan to hold joint
events and create synergistic attractions.
Partnership has already begun with the
Scandia History Series and SHA’s Annual
Progressive Dinner, a community event
held in part at the Museum.
The Center will feature a summer splash pad for kids
(image is representative and not the actual design)
Why Now?
You might be asking yourself, “Why is this important now? What is the urgency?”
For many reasons, now is the time.
Project Momentum
The Arts & Heritage Center has gained community
and city support, and project success hinges on
continued enthusiasm. Local residents have
strongly indicated their desire to maintain
Scandia’s rural character, enhance small-town
charm, and preserve history –all of which are
elements of our project We have unanimous City
Council endorsement and Parks & Recreation
Committee involvement. In 2020 the City agreed
to lease the land to SHA for $1/year for 100 years,
and in 2021 it endorsed the architectural
renderings. The project is clearly aligned with
the City’s long-range plans, and maintaining
momentum is critical to meet our fundraising
deadline with the City.
Viable Barn Materials
We currently have an opportunity to save an
iconic structure –the Water Tower Barn. The
historic barn was painstakingly dismantled in
2014 to allow for future restoration. SHA has
received a $10,000 grant from the Minnesota
Historical Society to research the "history,
engineering, and distinctive design" of the
tankhouse, pump, and windmill construction.
We must act soon while the stored original barn
materials remain viable.
Attracting and Serving Young Families
The Arts & Heritage Center will attract new families to
Scandia by offering family-friendly programming that
serves the community's needs. Scandia Elementary
School is increasingly serving students from expanded
boundaries rather than Scandia itself. Attracting
young families will help ensure the future viability of
our treasured school.
Telling the Native American story
Interest has been growing locally in gaining a fuller
understanding of our region’s history. Prior to the
arrival of the first Swedish immigrants, Scandia was
home to Dakota and Ojibwe Nations. With the treaty
of 1837, the Dakota and Ojibwe ceded their land to
the U.S. government. This important but often
overlooked part of our community’s cultural heritage
gives a truer context for understanding history. SHA
aims to celebrate and raise awareness of the culture
of Indigenous Peoples from the St. Croix River Valley.
Shared Immigrant Experiences
Telling Scandia’s immigrant story and demonstrating
the value that immigrants have always brought to our
American society is more relevant and compelling
than ever before. All immigrants come to America
their own version of a similar story. We hope to
encourage immigrants from all nations to visit our
Center and share their experiences. Exploring our
shared stories will emphasize our many similarities,
energize the American dream, and demonstrate that
the dream is indeed alive today.
Make Your Own History:
Partner With Us
We invite you to be part of Scandia’s
Legacy –to partner with us in rebuilding
the iconic Water Tower Barn, create
greater understanding of our shared
immigrant histories, and celebrate local
art and artists.
We are seeking to raise $1.5 million
in private/foundation funding and
$1.5 million in public funding.
Our Mission: To make
Scandia a uniquely interesting
and vibrant place to live in and
visit by preserving and
celebrating our rich history,
culture, arts, and rural
character.
Our Vision: Scandia is
blessed with a rich history and
sense of place due to its
unique position as the first
Swedish settlement in
Minnesota, its beautiful natural
and rural landscapes, and its
tradition of local arts and
artists. Going forward, we
envision a community that has
worked together to preserve,
restore, and celebrate our
community assets, creating a
vibrant village center with
preserved buildings that
complement the existing
Gammelgården Museum and
a community center complex
that includes the Water Tower
Barn: Scandia Arts & Heritage
Center. Our community
character will enrich the lives of
Scandia residents and inspire
properly scaled tourism and
economic development. As a
result, Scandia will be widely
viewed as a uniquely
interesting and vibrant place to
live in and visit.
Visit Scandia Heritage Alliance:
www.scandiaheritage.org
Contact Us:
PO Box 159 | Scandia, Minnesota 55073
651-233-0267