HomeMy WebLinkAbout01/19/1994CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
January 19, 1994
1. CALL TO ORDER
The City of Apple Valley Planning Commission Meeting of January 19, 1994, was
called to order at 7:42 p.m. by Chairman Alan Felkner in the Council Chambers of the
Apple Valley City Hall.
Members Present: Chairman Alan Felkner, Marcia Gowling, Karen Edgeton, and
Len Miller, Frank Blundetto
Members Absent: Jeannine Churchill
Staff Present: Keith Gordon, City Engineer; John Gretz, Community
Development Director; Jim Sheldon, City Attorney; Rick
Kelley, City Planner; John Voss, Consulting Planner and
Scott Hickok, Associate Planner.
Others Present: See the sign -in sheet.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved as submitted.
MOTION: Member Gowling moved, seconded by Member Edgeton.
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JANUARY 5, 1994
The minutes were approved as submitted.
MOTION: Member Gowling moved, seconded by Member Edgeton.
4. CONSENT AGENDA
- None -
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Brabec Rezoning to "R -2" and Preliminary Plat for 2 Lots at 13140 132nd
Street West
City Planner Rick Kelley introduced this item and stated that a rezoning is being
requested to 'R -2 ", Single Family Residential, along with a preliminary plat layout. Staff
confirmed that the lot sizes are appropriate for the 'R -2" district. As proposed, the plat
would allow for the existing home to remain, as well as a site for a future residential
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 2
dwelling. The new lot would contain .92 acres, the existing home would remain on a site
that is .62 acres. The petitioner has indicated that the neighbors have been supportive of
this subdivision proposal.
Kelley continued by stating that there are mature black walnut trees on site. In an
effort to preserve and protect these trees, the plat was drawn and a home would be located
accordingly.
Kelley concluded by recommending the public hearing be opened to receive
comments.
Chairman Felkner asked the Commission if they had any questions for Mr. Kelley.
Len Miller asked what the zoning of the surrounding area is. Kelley clarified.
Michael Warren, 13120 132nd Street West, stated that he believed this subdivision
would be in everyone's best interest. Warren confirmed that the neighbors that he has
talked to are supportive of the proposal.
Ron Dorken, 5290 132nd Street West, stated that he has a home that is located
southeast of this proposed subdivision and that he feels that it was a sound decision to
propose this minor subdivision.
No other comments were received; however, two letters were submitted from
adjacent neighbors in support of this development.
Chairman Felkner closed the public hearing and stated that although it is the policy
of the Planning Commission not to act on an item the night of the public hearing, Felkner
asked the Commission if they would be ready to act on this item given the support of the
surrounding neighborhood and the clarity of the issues in this case.
MOTION: Len Miller moved, seconded by Marcia Gowling, to rezone the Brabec
property from the existing "R -1" designation to "R -2 ", Single Family Residential, to facilitate
the plat as proposed. The motion passed unanimously.
Kelley pointed out that it is also necessary that the Planning Commission make a
motion to approve the preliminary plat.
MOTION: Len Miller moved, seconded by Marcia Gowling, to approve the
preliminary plat as submitted. The motion passed unanimously.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 3
5B. Valley Oaks Townhomes Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Rezoning,
Preliminary Plat, Conditional Use Permit & Site Plan Review for 58 Multiple Residential
Dwelling Units.
Consulting Planner John Voss introduced this item and explained that there are a
series of actions to be considered with the proposal. The Comprehensive Plan Designation
as it currently exists provides for a Convenience Center /Commercial. The proposed
redesignation or modification to the Comprehensive Plan would allow Moderate Density
Residential of 6 -12 units per acre.
Voss continued by stating that the next action to be considered would be a rezoning
from Neighborhood Convenience Center to Multiple Residential at M -613.
A preliminary plat to subdivide the 5.5 acre site was also illustrated, and Voss
explained the proximity of the proposed development to the Park and Ride site.
A Conditional Use Permit is requested for construction materials allowing a
combination of brick and vinyl siding rather than natural wood planks. Voss clarified the
one car attached garage variance request which is contrary to the two car zoning
requirement.
Voss explained that the alignment of the driveways were reworked to address the
concerns of the public and the Commission at its last meeting. Voss pointed out the offset
of the single drive that remained as direct access to Pennock Avenue and indicated that
there was a purposeful offset in the design to allow a clear distinction between 128th Street
and the entrance to these units.
Voss stated that a 24 hour traffic count indicated 1,524 trips currently. This
development is anticipated to generate 350 trips per day. Clarification was given by Voss
to indicate that the road design allows for 6,000 trips per day. With the addition of this
development, there will be approximately 2,000 trips per day, still well below the design
capacity of the roadway.
Voss indicated that at the previous public hearing the public seemed to prefer the
commercial proposal or alternative, as opposed to the rental townhouse development that
is being proposed. Voss explained that at 1,500 trips per day currently, the site is not a good
location for commercial development. The number of trips per day oftentimes is the key
issue for locating a commercial entity, and these numbers are not attractive.
Referring to the proposed site plan, Voss indicated that the southern portion of the
earlier petition had been revised. On the earlier petition, the developer had indicated a 50'
back to back dimension between units, and the view from Pennock is the side of the units.
The previous development proposal did have a very good circulation pattern. The proposal
currently being considered modifies that circulation pattern and reduces one's ability to
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 4
circulate through the southern portion of the project. The positive aspect of the alteration
is that the units themselves have a better orientation for the residents in terms of open
space, site lines, and actual distance between units.
There were no objections by the Minnesota Department of Transportation in regard
to this project. Voss indicated that at the previous public hearing there was discussion of
noise abatement along Cedar Avenue and stated that the most effective noise abatement
is the installation of noise walls. However, many residents prefer not to live adjacent to
noise walls and the benefits of the tradeoffs are questionable.
Voss concluded by stating that he had an opportunity to review a sample lease for
this development. Voss did this in response to public concern at the public hearing
regarding debris, outside storage materials, junk, etc. In this detailed lease, Voss was
confident that the owners of this development had considered all aspects of outdoor storage
and the long term aesthetics of the development to make certain that the overall look and
amenity of the development would not be hampered by storage of unwanted items.
Member Gowling asked whether or not the land south of the daycare has future
development potential. Rick Kelley indicated that the land south of the daycare is right -of-
way so there is not a potential for development.
Member Edgeton asked whether or not four parking spaces at the southwest building
would be adequate. She did not feel that adequate space had been provided for 9 units.
Member Gowling asked for clarification of the outlot situation west of Pennock.
Voss clarified.
Edgeton asked for further clarification of the outlot north of 128th Street. Voss
indicated that there is a park, and lot 33 adjacent to 128th Street is a developable lot. It
is anticipated that a home will be constructed on lot 33 in the future.
Edgeton asked for clarification of the townhouse area west of Pennock Avenue. Voss
clarified.
Chairman Felkner asked if the Park and Ride was going to be developed regardless.
John Voss responded that the Park and Ride is a separate development. The Commission
has been asked to consider approval of a metes and bounds description to allow closing to
occur on this property.
Felkner asked what the percentage of green space is on this site, to which Voss
replied, 55 %.
Gowling asked if typically in rental townhouse units the owners find that it is
primarily singles, married couples, or retired individuals. Alan Felkner deferred Gowling's
question to the petitioner. Wally Johnson, developer /petitioner, from 7825 133rd Street
West, stated that primarily they see this development as families who are looking to move
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 5
to the community, possibly people who are short term contracts, some retired individuals
who may live 6 months of the year in another location, etc.
Johnson continued by stating that the orientation of the buildings were modified in
response to public comment regarding building faces, driveways onto Pennock, and open
space orientation. Johnson also stated that he has observed a number of developments
throughout the community with a siding product similar to what he is proposing. Centex
near Target Greatland is an example, as well as new single family developments in the area
surrounding this proposed development.. Johnson reiterated that a maintenance -free siding
is the preferred alternative for this development. He also stated that two -car garages can
be added to the units and there are two units with two -car garages. He could envision the
addition of at least 8 more two -car garages. Obviously the addition of two -car garages will
eliminate some of the open space between the units, but the developers indicated that they
would be interested in making necessary modifications to reduce the number of single car
garages.
Johnson concluded by stating that he would make a good transitional use by the
placement of trees, berms, and other landscape elements to buffer this development from
the roadway and the Saddle Ridge Development to the west.
Member Miller asked about the proposed rents for the development. Wally Johnson
responded that their rents would be in the area of $750 to $800 per unit.
Miller stated that on the plans he noted that the windows are aluminum, and asked
if this is consistent with charging the highest rental rates and whether or not an alternative
window for this climate has been considered. A general discussion regarding windows and
window construction ensued.
Edgeton requested the developer point out where the double garage units are and
where the potential double garage units could be. She then asked what the maximum
number of two -car garages is that would fit on this site as it has been laid out. Finally,
Edgeton asked about lots 1 and 33 west of Pennock in the Saddle Ridge Development. Art
Eaton responded that the sale of these lots is really driven by the market. The overall lot
costs are between $40,000 and $65,000 for the development.
Edgeton asked when the Saddle Ridge Development was approved. Eaton
responded, 1986. Some discussion ensued regarding lots 1 and 33.
Gowling asked how many three bedroom units would be available within this
development. Wally Johnson explained that there would be a mix of two and three
bedroom units.
Gowling expressed concern about the number of one car garages combined with the
number of three bedroom units and the potential for more cars. Johnson stated that in
Plymouth he has 286 units, in excess of 300 units in Woodbury, and 114 in White Bear Lake
and they have been successful in reaching their target market, as well as keeping the
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 6
developments attractive and well maintained. Johnson stated that in the lease for market
purposes, they do have a buy or build clause whereby the renters can terminate their lease.
Through the process they will lose $300, but this gives them the opportunity to live in the
rental unit, find the lot or home they are looking for, put together a purchase agreement
and move into that home prior to the end of their lease term. Johnson does not see his
project as transient housing based upon his experience in the other developments.
Miller asked who will manage the property. Wally Johnson responded that they
manage the developments that they own.
Chairman Felkner asked about the density of 10 units per acre. He asked the
developer to consider Planner Voss's comments and to be prepared to respond about the
new information regarding circulation, etc.
Tim Hammond, 7576 128th Street West, stated that his primary concern is the traffic
volume and asked when the traffic study was taken. John Voss responded that it was on
December 21, 22, and 23rd. Hammond stated that he did not feel those were accurate dates
to represent what actually happens on Pennock Avenue because of the holidays around
those dates. John Voss responded that although these counts may be affected one way or
another by the holidays, they are probably not off by more than 20 %. Adding 20% to the
counts would still bring these numbers fax below the expected trips per day based on the
road design.
Felkner asked Staff to bring back to the next meeting information on how the counts
were prepared, what the counts actually mean, and how the future development will affect
the counts that we see currently.
Mark Howell of 128th Street West stated that he felt there should be a better
transition than rental units to the existing single family upper income homes that exist. He
then asked whether or not the developers felt they could make the project go without
variances.
Chuck Payne, 7625 128th Street West, stated that he was aware that a neighborhood
convenience center was a possible neighbor and that he and his neighbors accepted that
land use or the potential of that land use. Payne also stated that he was aware that he was
moving next to a mobile home development, but felt that eventually the land would become
so valuable that the park would not survive. Payne concluded that he was dissatisfied with
the rental townhome proposal and was personally disappointed with the developer.
Dave Phillips, 7638 128th Street West, stated that he felt it was important to retain
the integrity of the area and not take whatever development comes along. Phillips
continued by stating that he has experience in planning, as he has been a Planning
Commissioner in Burnsville in the past, and feels that from a planning perspective this
development may not be appropriate. Chairman Felkner asked, with his experience, what
Phillips would recommend for this development site. Phillips responded that other than
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 7
convenience, whatever is proposed should be of a high design and should follow the rules
about materials, parking, etc.
Julie Gasper, 7794 128th Street West, strongly agrees with her neighbors. She feels
that the development proposal has the appearance of little boxes and that there should be
more of a transition between their homes and the proposal. Gasper continued by stating
that the multi - family developments on the east side of Cedar are intense and are not in that
good of shape. She feels that in time this development will lack maintenance and have an
undesirable appearance.
Bill Ferguson, 7728 128th Street West, stated that he felt that there will be many
unsupervised kids mixing with the traffic along Pennock Avenue. Karen Edgeton asked why
he felt these children will be unsupervised. Ferguson stated that every project has children
and although you spend time with them, there are still going to be many who go to and from
without their parents.
Phil Flynn, 7581 128th Street West, stated that currently there are unsupervised
children in the park and that this development will only perpetuate that problem. Flynn
continued by stating that landscaping does either one of two things, enhances a development
or covers up an unsightly development. He felt that the landscaping in this case would be
necessary to cover up an unsightly development and that the development should be
improved instead of covering it up with landscaping.
Chairman Felkner asked Staff to prepare a synopsis of the landscape requirements
of single family versus multi - family developments.
Craig Bane, 7672 128th Street West, stated that at the informal meeting the
developers discussed ownership as a tax advantage. This advantage comes from the
development being a rental project as opposed to owner occupied. Bane questioned what
would happen after the tax advantage for ownership disappears. Would the development
continue, or would it be sold off, or would it start attracting people not consistent with the
rest of the homes in the area? He concluded by stating that he does not like to see
developers make a quick buck at the expense of the community.
Bill Milon, 7840 128th Street West, stated that at the informal meeting that he
attended he was told that young single people who work at the megamall would be the
primary target market for this development, and that rents would range between $850 and
$950. With this price range, Milon felt that there would be at least 2 -3 people per unit,
which would lead to inadequate parking. Milon continued by stating that he did not feel
empty nesters would accept the noise on this site. Milon concluded by stating that in many
developments you see the first lots develop, but because lots 1 and 33 have not been
developed in Saddle Ridge, he feels they will be tough to sell. Milon also stated that just
because there was no market for neighborhood commercial in the past, the developer or the
City should not be in a rush to build.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 8
Edgeton asked Staff to prepare traffic counts typical of neighborhood commercial.
Miller asked how long Neighborhood Commercial Convenience has been the
designation for this site. Rick Kelley explained that this designation dates back to the first
ordinance for the City in the late 1950's. John Voss explained in further detail the history
of this site.
Edgeton asked if the zoning designation was because at the time there were
commercial entities. John Voss responded that there was a restaurant, western retail store,
and horseback riding available on site, and it was at that time that Art Eaton proposed the
Learning Tree planned development, which would include a daycare facility. Art Eaton
stated that the Leaning Tree proposal was based on a much larger land area. He hadn't
anticipated that as much right -of -way would be utilized as there had been with the
improvements on Cedar Avenue.
Rick Ness, 128th Street West, made two points. First, he was concerned about traffic
in the area and was wondering where the 6,000 count per day figure originated. Kelley
explained that 6,000 cars is the design capacity for the roadway, and that currently the
numbers are well below 6,000 trips per day. Ness then asked what was the design capacity
when it was originally designed. Staff responded that the design capacity has always been
6,000. That is the standard by which the road was constructed. The number that fluctuates
is the number of cars that uses that road daily. When traffic exceeds 6,000 trips per day,
a modification to that roadway can be made.
Secondly, Ness stated that the proposal seemed half baked. The traffic numbers do
not make sense to him, and with this being a rental property, he felt that it would be a
transient neighborhood and not consistent with the existing neighborhood. Ness also felt
that transient population equates to increased crime rates. Ness concluded by stating that
he feels the rules are changing midstream, and because of it there are decreasing home
values, increased traffic and eventually there will be increased crime.
Bruce Reykowski, 7616 128th Street West, stated that he enjoys his neighborhood
very much and believes from Grandview Manor to 138th Street there are no homes with less
than a two car garage and everything is owner occupied.
Jim Gasper, 7794 128th Street West, stated that he is concerned about property
values. He purchased his lot in the range of $60,000 and feels that this development may
have a detrimental impact on his property.
Phil Scholtfeldt, 7609 128th Street West, asked whether or not Staff had looked at
queuing and density as it relates to this project. Keith Gordon asked for clarification of
which intersection Scholtfeldt was referring to, and then explained how the design capacity
and queuing play a consistent role in the design and future development of the property.
Scholtfeldt stated that he was concerned about the stacking or queuing problems that would
occur during busy traffic periods during the day.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 9
Chairman Felkner reiterated that he would have Staff look at the traffic volumes and
bring back more information for the next meeting.
Scholtfeldt also stated that he purchased his lot for $52,500 and he is concerned
about the specifications of the proposed building with aluminum windows, low cost doors,
etc.
Bruce Frederick, 7823 128th Street West, stated that on the east side of Cedar
Avenue there is a very large mobile home park and a fair amount of rental. He was
concerned about this additional rental with single car garages and that this would be a
Section 8 development. He concluded by stating that he had spoken with power line
representatives who indicated that with the right -of -way for the power line west of Pennock,
there would not be adequate space for the building that has been proposed on the west side
of Pennock Avenue.
John Steele, 7641 128th Street, asked about apartments further north that had been
approved but never built. Rick Kelley responded that there were apartments that had been
approved in this area, but as of yet have not been built. Steele stated that the reason they
never have been built is because they do not fit in this area.
Sherri Renowldo asked why the City would even considering rezoning this property
from an existing land use to multi- family residential.
Brox Bracewell, 7600 128th Street West, stated that he would like to have the
developers produce a specification sheet on the finish materials for this development. He
would also like to have the traffic study take into account the time of day.
Gowling asked if the neighborhood convenience center classification were to remain,
what the uses could be. John Voss responded that an anchored dairy store, not to exceed
5,000 square feet would be permitted; a restaurant not to exceed 3,000 square feet; small
office /professional /dental offices, etc.; retail and personal service operations; as well as
motor fuel sales -- the outdoor fuel portion through a conditional use permit. The site
coverage maximum percentage is 20 %.
Chairman Felkner asked Staff to bring back information about what a comparable
size convenience center would be for the benefit of the Commission and residents so that
they could better understand what could happen on this site other than multi - family.
Felkner then asked whether or not the site zoning precludes pure office space. John
Voss stated that a maximum of 25% of the site can be utilized for professional office space.
Norm Johnson stated that this is not a junk development. His developments are
quality work and he intends to produce a quality development in this area. He continued
by stating that he finds it hard to believe that people purchased their homes knowing that
there would be a convenience center down the street and find that this would be more
desirable and would make their land more valuable than this multi - family
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 10
development. Johnson concluded by stating that no one has come forward with a
convenience retail proposal and that the developer has held onto the property since it was
zoned as such in the late 50's, early 60's. Johnson stated that this is not purely a tax shelter
deal; it is an investment. Although he cannot guarantee the longevity of his partners, they
intend at this time to stay in this business and manage this development as an investment.
As far as producing a specification sheet, the developer was not aware that the audience
citizen participants would be asking for specification sheets. However, he does not have a
problem with producing those documents. Finally, Johnson stated that with the high rents
proposed for this development and the well maintained environment, he expects that this
will be a very attractive development - -one that he and his partners will be proud of.
Chairman Felkner asked for additional comments. A general discussion ensued.
Chairman Felkner closed the public hearing.
6. LAND USE /ACTION ITEMS
A. Site Plan and Building Permit Authorization for Enderes Tools at the
Northwest Corner of County Road #42 and Pilot Knob Road
Rick Kelley gave a brief presentation and explained that the proposal involves
approximately 3 acres and asks for consideration of a site plan and building permit
authorization for Enderes Tools light industrial facility.
Kelley explained the proposed building would include 20,600 square feet, with the
potential for a 5,000 square foot addition. On the proposal, the parking is indicated in a
fashion that shows the parking for the principal structure and a ghosted parking plan for the
additional stalls once the addition has been completed. Kelley explained the proof of
parking arrangement that has been proposed for this development. Based on his experience,
he feels that the proposed parking, along with the proof of parking, will provide adequate
on -site parking for this complex. The landscaping and a landscape berm have been
recommended and shall meet or exceed the code requirements for a development such as
this. Kelley explained that the proposed building includes a raked concrete panel with
tinted blue glass and a painted blue stripe around the perimeter of the building.
At this time the applicants are asking for both a building permit authorization, site
plan approval, and resolution of compliance with the Comprehensive Plan, verifying
eligibility for tax increment financing.
Member Edgeton asked Mr. Kelley to explain the parking and how the proof of
parking will work. Kelley explained the future expansion based on floor area ratio to
number of stalls. If and when the demand is such that additional stalls are needed, they will
be required at that time. Edgeton asked if we were bound by an agreement for that future
parking. Kelley responded, yes.
Len Miller asked if the expansion area was for warehouse and assembly. Kelley
explained.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 11
Gowling asked for an explanation of the tax increment finance resolution. Kelley
explained that the Planning Commission is being asked to verify whether or not the proposal
is in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan, which is the long range plan for this
development area. This confirmation verifies that use of tax increment financing is
appropriate.
MOTION: Len Miller moved to approve the site plan and building permit
authorization subject to: final documentation of landscape costs meeting or exceeding the
2 -1/2% building construction value, an agreement entered into with the property owner
concerning the installation of 15 proof of parking stalls if the initially constructed 40 stalls
prove to be inadequate to meet the parking demand, and also filing of the final plat upon
the property prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy.
Marcia Gowling asked who will police the proof of parking. Kelley responded that
Staff will make a determination whether or not the additional parking demand warrants
additional parking stalls.
The motion was seconded by Karen Edgeton. The motion passed unanimously.
Staff then also recommended approval of the resolution, finding that the use of tax
increment financing is for a project which is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
MOTION: Len Miller moved, seconded by Karen Edgeton. This motion passed
unanimously.
611. Mistwood Rezoning, Preliminary Plat and Site Plan Review for 216 Multiple
Residential Dwelling Units, north of future 147th Street and west of Pilot Knob
Consulting Planner John Voss presented information regarding the rezoning of this
27 acre parcel to allow "M5 -C ", Multi - family Residential designation, which would allow 6 -12
units per acre. This proposal originally was to contain 216 units. Subsequent to the original
submittal the developers dropped one 8 -unit building to bring the total to 208 medium
density units overall. Voss continued by stating that at the December 15th meeting traffic
was a major concern, particularly the extension of Europa Avenue.
Based on those concerns, Voss explained that Staff took traffic counts on 144th
Street, both east and west of Pilot Knob. The counts were 500 trips per day west of Pilot
Knob, well within the range of what you would expect on a street of that design.. On the
east of Pilot Knob there were 1,200 trips per day.
The proposed 208 unit development has a density of 8 units per acre and a landscape
and screening plan which includes an open space area in response to the request for internal
open space.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 12
Ron Bastyr, representing the developer for Mistwood, stated that the mix between
green space and building area is 60% green space, with 40% devoted to building and
impervious surface.
Voss explained the breakdown between the club homes and more traditional
townhomes. He also explained the private / pubfic street issues involved with this
development.
Member Edgeton asked if the residents have any concerns about the industrial
development to the south. The developer responded that they are interested in the land and
certainly have considered the industrial use, but do not feel that their market will object,
there market being young singles or families making up 60 -65% of the buyers. Karen
Edgeton asked that the Staff notify the future homeowners of the intended use of the
property so that they are aware that there will be industrial development south of their new
homes.
Kelley explained the use of sales boards and the requirement of the developer to
install a sales board in each of their models to provide the information about surrounding
land uses.
Member Miller asked what the right -of -way width of Europa would be. John Voss
explained that it would be a 60' standard right of way.
Chairman Felkner asked whether the street going through will increase traffic, as the
neighborhood had mentioned, on 144th and Europa. John responded that the roads were
designed to handle the amount of traffic that would be generated by this development. A
discussion ensued regarding signalization and stop signs at intersection.
John Gretz explained that when a major arterial meets a minor arterial, the criteria
would automatically be met for a stop sign.
Miller asked if the State dictates speed. John Voss explained that this is the case.
John Voss also explained that currently the traffic counters not only gave us a traffic count,
but the speed at which the vehicles were traveling along 144th, approximately 21 mph. That
speed may increase after this development occurs and increased traffic is experienced on
144th.
Edgeton asked about the four homes that are backing directly onto Europa and if
there is an alternative design that would allow them to avoid backing directly onto this
public street. John Voss explained that a neighborhood collector such as this has a lower
speed limit because of driveways or access points incrementally. You don't necessarily want
to limit drives. This is really the same street design as those in other single family
development areas, and a driveway onto that street is not unusual. John Gretz reiterated
that you will have a speed limit of 30 mph if you have a driveway every 100 feet. If not, the
speed limit could be greater.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 13
Edgeton asked that the developer look for a turnaround for those units rather than
having the vehicles back directly onto the roadway.
Voss reiterated that there is a 60% open space in this development. With that open
space, the traffic discussion, and modifications that have been made to the development,
Voss recommended approval of the proposal.
MOTION: Marcia Gowling moved, Len Miller seconded, to rezone the property
from Agriculture to Multiple Dwelling, "M5 -C ", for the area north of future 147th Street.
The motion passed 4 - 0.
MOTION: Marcia Gowling moved, Len Miller seconded, to approve the preliminary
plat to rezone the area into lots and blocks, dedication of 147th Street and Europa Avenue,
and platting as an outlot the remaining area extending south of County Road #42. The
motion passed 4 - 0.
MOTION: Marcia Gowling moved, Len Miller seconded, to approve the site plan
review and building permit authorization. This motion passed 4 - 0.
6C. Cedar Isle Estates Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Rezoning, and
Preliminary Plat for 259 Single Family Homes and 120 Multiple Residential Dwelling Units
Rick Kelley gave a brief presentation explaining that the development proposal
entails: (1) changing the Comprehensive Guide Plan from High Density and Limited and
General Industrial to Single Family and Low Density Residential; (2) rezoning from
Agricultural and General Industrial to "R -3 ", Single Family Residential, and "M -3A, B or
C ", and (3) a preliminary plat for 258 single family lots and 120 multi - family units. Kelley
explained that 142nd Street alignment had been revised to eliminate the potential of 142nd
Street carrying more traffic to Cedar Avenue than desired. Kelley also explained the
importance of extensive buffering adjacent to the existing public works development east of
this proposed single family residential area. Kelley continued by discussing the park
dedication issues involved with the ponding area, island, and the park land itself that had
been illustrated for dedication. According to a plan that Kelley received the afternoon of
the meeting, a number of multi- family units had been eliminated to allow additional open
green space and to allow play fields as recommended by the Park and Rec Advisory
Committee. Kelley indicated that the pond depth would be a maximum of 3 feet, and that
the slope would be at a 10 to 1 ratio. Kelley also indicated that the pond would bounce up
to 5 feet in elevation and an easement will be required surrounding that pond to allow the
raising and lowering of the pond level as necessary to accommodate the storm water from
this development. Kelley also stated that the issue of the townhomes has not been
completely resolved, and he is not prepared to make a recommendation at this meeting.
He concluded by stating that on the agenda for the February 2nd meeting Arcon
Development will be prepared to propose a planned unit development for the multiple
family residential portion of this development, and at that time Kelley felt he would be
prepared to make a recommendation on both issues.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 14
Scott Johnson, developer with Arcon Development, discussed the island in detail and
expressed a desire to retain the island as an amenity to the development. Johnson also
pointed out the additional park space that has been gained by the reduction of multi- family
units in the southern portion of the proposed development.
Member Edgeton asked for specifics on the type of vegetation that would be planted
on the island. Johnson responded that the intent is to be very careful about what is planted
and to select a low maintenance vegetation. A general discussion ensued regarding the park
and island issues within this development.
Member Miller asked whether or not there would be landscaping along 145th Street.
Scott Johnson responded that the townhouse development will have extensive landscaping.
Scott Johnson then introduced Ross Feffercorn from Country Home Builders.
Feffercorn presented illustrations from the type of units that will be built in the multi- family
portion of this development. Feffercorn indicated that 2, 21/2, and 3 car garages have been
very popular and will be typical in this development. The units are constructed with cedar
siding, and the price range is between $125,000 and $180,000 in other communities.
Feffercorn went on to explain the building orientation and private cul -de -sac, center island
planted areas, and discussed generally the streetscape of the development.
Member Gowling asked whether or not the builder planned to buffer along 147th
Street with berming and landscaping. A general discussion ensued.
6D. Diamond Path Townhouses - Item tabled at the request of the petitioner.
6E. Huntington Ridge Garden Homes - Item tabled at the request of the
petitioner.
6F. Avsur Acres - Item tabled at the request of the petitioner.
6G. Utility Corridor and Substation - Item tabled at the request of Dakota
Electric
7. DISCUSSION ITEMS
- None -
8. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Multiple Residential Zoning Discussion
Scott Hickok gave a brief synopsis of the memo included in the Planning
Commission's packet, and encouraged the Planning Commission to discuss multi- family
residential again in an upcoming work session. Alan Felkner stated that he would like to
keep the ball rolling in these discussions and would certainly see the benefit of a work
Planning Commission Minutes
January 19, 1994
Page 15
session with the Planning Commission. Chairman Felkner asked that this item be placed
on the agenda for February 23rd as a discussion item. At that time we can decide on a
specific work session date.
B. Work Sessions
The Commission briefly discussed work sessions and stated that they would like to
have items brought to them in a work session format. Specifics of these work sessions will
be discussed on the February 23rd discussion item agenda.
9. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 10:15 p.m.