The Stearns County Planning Commission convened on July 24, 2025, to discuss a significant interim use permit request from Knife River Corporation, aimed at continuing mining operations on a 39.9-acre site in Cold Spring, Minnesota. This request comes in light of a change in property ownership, necessitating a review of existing permits under the county's Land Use and Zoning Ordinance.

The proposed mining operation, located at 24993 Island Lake Road, seeks to extend its activities for an additional ten years. The site has a history of mining permits issued by Wakefield Township, which transitioned oversight to the county a few years ago. The commission's review included a site visit by several members, confirming the absence of wetlands and the presence of an existing berm that provides screening from adjacent residential properties.

Key discussions centered around the operational hours, with Knife River requesting 24-hour access from Monday to Saturday, a significant increase from the previous permit's restrictions of 7 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and limited hours on Saturdays. The commission noted that while most zoning setbacks were met, a written permission from a nearby landowner allowed for a closer operation to one dwelling than typically permitted.

Public comments during the meeting reflected community concerns about the mining operation's impact. Residents expressed hopes that Knife River would maintain the operational standards set by the previous owner, particularly regarding dust control and traffic management. A representative from Wakefield Township emphasized the need for a formal agreement with Knife River to address potential road repairs and the direction of truck traffic, advocating for routes that minimize disruption to residential areas.

The commission is expected to deliberate on the permit request, considering the proposed conditions, including a financial guarantee for road maintenance and the installation of informational signage at the site. The outcome of this meeting will have lasting implications for both the mining operation and the surrounding community, as it balances economic activity with residential quality of life. The interim use permit, if approved, would remain valid until August 12, 2035, marking a significant period for local development and resource management.