In a recent meeting, the Sawyer County Zoning Committee discussed a proposal to rezone approximately 1.85 acres from Agricultural 1 to Commercial 1 to facilitate a landscaping business. The applicant, Jesse Miller, intends to operate the business on the property, which would include the sale of landscaping materials such as gravel and mulch.

The committee noted that the proposed commercial use aligns with the Sawyer County code, which permits such activities within a Commercial 1 zone. The rezone is seen as necessary to accommodate the sale of materials on-site, as a conditional use permit would not suffice due to the commercial nature of the business.

Concerns were raised regarding access to the property, particularly the potential for additional driveway permits off Sunset Lane. The town of Edgewater has expressed reluctance to allow new driveways on this road, which is already burdened by heavy truck traffic. Discussions with the Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding access from State Highway 48 are still pending.

The future land use maps indicate that the area is designated as forestry residential, which typically allows for one dwelling per 20,000 square feet. However, the committee highlighted that there are existing Commercial 1 zones nearby, and a similar rezone was approved in 2019, suggesting that this request does not constitute spot zoning.

The town board has tabled a separate rezone application from Ron and Laura Zuk, pending further information. The committee emphasized the importance of aligning zoning decisions with the town's comprehensive plan and ensuring that any changes are mutually agreed upon by the town and the zoning committee.