The Bismarck City Commission decided to hold off on putting a moratorium on the use of cul-de-sacs in residential development plats, but will likely go ahead with the proposal at its Nov. 27 meeting.

Twice this past week, at a special strategy session and a regular meeting, commissioners voiced their dislike for the design feature, which they feel creates safety concerns and additional taxpayer expense for snow removal. For several years, commissioners have expressed their disapproval, but it keeps reappearing in preliminary plat designs.

Cul-de-sacs are often used in areas that have access problems due to topography issues. They also allow developers to squeeze more lots into a plat. Usually a cul-de-sac uses a short section of road, leading from a main artery, to a circular paved area with driveways providing access to homes.

Large emergency vehicles have difficulties navigating within the confines of cul-de-sacs, and snow removal crews find they can't use the gates on their equipment for clearing driveways and have no place to put snow.

At Monday's strategy meeting, the commission discussed calling for a moratorium at Tuesday's regular meeting. But at the second meeting it was decided they had not given enough public notice and want developers to have the opportunity to address the issue.

The commission wants to turn the matter over to staff who will create a design standard for the use of cul-de-sacs, Commissioner Connie Sprynczynatyk said. The commission will give staff specifics on the length of time of the moratorium, creating an end date for their recommendation.

"This commission has a good track record on the use of moratoriums," Mayor John Warford said. "Usually we brought decisions in ahead of schedule."

Commissioner Steve Schwab asked whether a public hearing should be held. City attorney Charlie Whitman recommended they shouldn't hold a formal public hearing, but rather open it to public discussion.

Commissioner Dave Jensen said the final outcome on cul-de-sacs should not boil down to having designated snow depots for snow from cul-de-sacs.

"Removing snow from cul-de-sacs is much more expensive than moving it up and down a street. That's not fair to the taxpayers," Jensen said.

Commissioner Sandi Tabor made the motion to continue the issue to the Nov. 27 meeting, at which time the public will be invited to participate in the discussion. The commission unanimously approved the motion.

(Reach reporter Gordon Weixel at 250-8255 or gordon.weixel@bismarcktribune.com.)