Trends outlined in previous sections represent a broad overview of the economic issues affecting Smiley Township. Job growth in Thief River Falls has mitigated the population declines experienced in townships farther from city job centers. It is likely the Township will continue to experience the effect of job growth and ongoing transitions in agriculture. Township Board members and planning members examined these trends, added their knowledge of the Township, and then identified key development issues facing the Township.
The following is a summary of the most significant issues, including recommended land use approach for each issue:
Larger Scale Farming – Larger scale farming will have some effect in the Township, but Smiley is well suited to farming of all types. Positive factors include good road systems (See Road Infrastructure Map in Attachments). the long history of farming, the good neighbor attitude of residents, and the introduction of a wide variety of state and federal programs which protect the environment.
The possibility of new large scale animal operations was identified as a high priority issue. The Township should make certain it can control the placement of large feedlots, but do so in a manner that communicates support for farming.
Part-Time Farmers – As more and more residents move into the Township, there is more likelihood of small scale part-time farming, including vegetable production, small animal raising, or small acreage crop production. This should not pose a problem for the Township, and the increase of home-based businesses should be examined to make certain the Township has the ability to direct the growth of businesses that could potentially reach higher levels of employment.
Non-Farm Residents – There are a number of non-farming residents in the Township and current and future employment growth in nearby Thief River Falls could likely increase the number. This has been a positive factor in the Township, but the Township should remain attentive to the possibility that large scale farming and non-farm residents may not be the perfect mix.
Higher Density Housing – Other than two areas of higher density manufactured housing, there are no other developments of this type in the Township. The Township will clarify what they consider to be a reasonable density in the ag/residential areas that cover the Township now, but any further developments of this type will need to be approved by the Township Board.
Recreation – The largest share of the Township’s land area is used for agriculture, but there are considerable areas of wetlands, forest, and grasslands (See Land Use Map in Attachments). Much of this land is well-suited to hunting, motorized trails, horse trails, walking, and other activities. There may be some potential for event-related recreation or intense-use areas such as ATV or racetrack parks. The Township should make certain these potentials are addressed in appropriate ordinances.
Sensitive Natural Areas – Areas suitable for recreation are often desirable locations for gravel pits, feedlots, housing developments, and other activities. Existing state and federal programs are adequate to protect these areas in most circumstances, but there is the potential for land use conflicts, damage from overuse, or damage from landowners ignoring regulations. Potential issues include, but are not limited to, items such as reclaiming gravel pits, feedlots established near drainage systems, housing near wetland areas, or damaging motorized activity. The Township should make certain ordinances allow for a voice in these cases, but use caution to maintain freedom for residents to enjoy and use natural areas when no damage will occur.
Industry – The proximity of the Township to Thief River Falls leaves open the possibility of larger scale industry locating in the Township. The Township should make provisions to ensure residents have the ability to influence the location of industrial operations to prevent conflicts. The Township could also identify areas best suited to larger business or industry if there is a desire to promote this type of activity. Any commercial or industrial venture must be approved by the Township Zoning Committee.
Public Facilities – Access to roads, drainage, good soil conditions, electricity, telephone, broadband and other public infrastructure is important to assuring a high quality living and working environment for residents. Providing new public infrastructure is expensive and can promote unexpected changes in development patterns. The Township should encourage the location of residences, farm operations, and businesses where the efficient use of infrastructure is possible and avoid new infrastructure in areas not well-suited to development.