HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-06 Agenda Packet
M eeting L ocation: M unicipal Center
7100 147th Street West
Apple Valley, M innesota 55124
March 6, 2024
PLA N N IN G C O MMISSIO N T EN TAT IVE A G EN D A
A N N UA L BUS IN ESS MEET IN G
7:00 P M
1.Call to Order
2.Approve Agenda
3.Approve Consent Agenda Items
Consent Agenda Items are considered routine and will be enacted with a
single motion, without discussion, unless a commissioner or citizen requests
to have any item separately considered. It will then be moved to the land
use/action items for consideration.
A.Approve Minutes of February 7, 2024 Regular Meeting
B.Parks Referendum - Rezoning Kelley Park
Set public hearing to consider rezoning multiple parcels that make up
Kelley Park as part of the Parks Referendum projects.
4.Annual Business Meeting
A.Nominate and Approve Officers
B.Approve 2023 Planning Commission Annual Report
5.Public Hearings
6.Land Use / Action Items
7.Other Business
A.Review of Upcoming Schedule and Other Updates
Planning Commission - Wednesday, March 20, 2024 - 7:00 p.m.
Planning Commission - Wednesday, April 3, 2024 - 7:00 p.m.
C ity Council - T hursday, March 14, 2024 - 7:00 p.m.
C ity Council - T hursday, March 28, 2024 - 7:00 p.m.
8.Adjourn
Regular meetings are broadcast, live, on C harter C ommunications C able C hannel
180 and on the C ity's website at www.applevalleymn.gov
I T E M: 3.A.
P L A NNI NG C O MMI S S I O N ME E T I NG D AT E :March 6, 2024
S E C T I O N:Consent A genda
Description:
A pprove Minutes of F ebruary 7, 2024 Regular Meeting
S taff Contact:
B reanna Vincent, Department Assistant
Department / Division:
Community Development Department
AC T I O N RE Q UE S T E D:
Approve minutes of regular meeting of February 7, 2024.
S UM M ARY:
T he minutes of the last regular Planning Commission meeting is attached for your review and
approval.
B AC K G RO UND:
State statute requires the creation and preservation of meeting minutes which document the
official actions and proceedings of public governing bodies.
B UD G E T I M PAC T:
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AT TAC HM E NT S :
Minutes
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
February 7, 2024
1. CALL TO ORDER
The City of Apple Valley Planning Commission Meeting was called to order by Vice Chair
Scanlan at 7:00 p.m.
Members Present: Paul Scanlan, David Schindler, Phil Mahowald, Becky Sandahl,
and Jeff Prewitt
Member(s) Absent: Jodi Kurtz
City staff members attending: Community Development Director Tim Benetti, City Planner
Kathy Bodmer, Planner Alex Sharpe, Assistant City Engineer Evan
Acosta, City Attorney Sharon Hills, and Department Assistant
Breanna Vincent.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Vice Chair Scanlan asked if there were any changes to the agenda. – None.
MOTION: Commissioner Schindler moved, seconded by Commissioner Mahowald,
approving the agenda. Roll call vote: Ayes - 5 – Nays – 0.
3. CONSENT ITEMS
A. Approval of Minutes of January 17, 2024
MOTION: Commissioner Schindler moved, seconded by Commissioner Mahowald,
approving the minutes of January 17, 2024. Roll call vote: Ayes - 5 – Nays –
0.
4. PUBLIC HEARING
A. Les Schwab Tire Center
Chair Kurtz opened the public hearing.
CD Director Benetti gave a brief presentation.
Commissioner Mahowald asked for clarification on the number of bays proposed.
CD Director Benetti stated that typically Les Schwab has several bays or garage doors on
their buildings but under our ordinance they could only have two. Their plans show one
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
Dakota County, Minnesota
Planning Commission Minutes
February 7, 2024
Page 2 of 5
entrance bay, where cars will then queue up inside the building for service and then one
bay on the other side for exiting.
Commissioner Mahowald stated that the original plans do not seem to fit the aesthetic of
other buildings in this development and he would like to see more architectural elements
that could make it more aesthetically pleasing to fit in with the development.
CD Director Benetti agreed that this area already has great product and staff would like to
see that continue. This building will be a unique building for Les Schwab as most of their
buildings have multiple garage doors for access to each of the service bays. The benefit to
the two bay opening proposed is that it may minimize noise.
Commissioner Mahowald stated that the revised design with the addition of the windows is
better but has room for improvement.
CD Director Benetti pointed out that the design elements on the middle of the building
shown in the elevation drawings are not windows but rather a decorative screening.
Vice Chair Scanlan asked for more information on the drive entry points.
CD Director Benetti stated that English Avenue is a private driveway and staff has
explored either keeping the two access points off English or closing one and having the
access point be more towards the middle of the two that were shown on the site plan. Staff
is open to suggestions from the commission.
Vice Chair Scanlan said that would be consistent with what is typically done in commercial
properties and going from two access points to one would be appropriate. Vice Chair
Scanlan asked if there had been a discussion on the location and materials of the trash
container.
CD Director Benetti stated that staff would prefer to see the trash container match the
materials of the building and will work with the applicant, especially since it is located
towards the front. Staff anticipates that old tires will be stored inside the building until
disposal.
Vice Chair Scanlan asked if there was a secondary option for the location of the trash
enclosure that would be less intrusive.
CD Director Benetti stated that the site is limited by the drainage and utility easement and
cannot have any structural material above that easement and had to focus on the west side
of the lot. If there are other areas for the location of the enclosure, staff will work with the
applicant.
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
Dakota County, Minnesota
Planning Commission Minutes
February 7, 2024
Page 3 of 5
Vice Chair Scanlan pointed out that the signage shown in their renderings does not comply
with our sign ordinance and that the applicant may want to keep that in mind during their
design process.
Commissioner Sandahl asked how traffic would work with the access being reduced to one
entry and exit point on English.
CD Director Benetti said that the access point would be larger to accommodate traffic
turning left or right out of the site and traffic traveling north or south bound on English to
access the site.
Commissioner Mahowald asked what the speed limit on English Avenue was.
CD Director Benetti stated it was likely 30 mph.
The applicant, Mark Rohweder (KLJ Engineering), provided a brief presentation.
Commissioner Mahowald pointed out that the building shown on the first slide was a great
example of being aesthetically pleasing with the large windows/glass with the glass awning
on the front of the building.
Vice Chair Scanlan asked if there were any photos of the faux window panels being
discussed.
Mr. Rohweder stated he did not have a close-up photo of the panels.
Vice Chair Scanlan said that he was not a fan of faux window designs and would prefer
real windows. He also stressed the importance of having a four-sided balance in the design
elements. Vice Chair Scanlan also said he would prefer the trash enclosure materials to go
with the building.
Commissioner Sandahl agreed with adding real windows.
With no further comments, Vice Chair Scanlan closed the public hearing.
It is the policy of the Planning Commission not to act on an item the same night as its
public hearing.
5. LAND USE
None
6. OTHER BUSINESS
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
Dakota County, Minnesota
Planning Commission Minutes
February 7, 2024
Page 4 of 5
A. Orchard Place Multi-Family Sketch Plan
Planner Bodmer provided a brief presentation.
Commissioner Prewitt asked if this development would be the first 4-story apartment in
Apple Valley.
Planner Bodmer stated that there is Applewood Pointe senior co-op.
Commissioner Mahowald pointed out that this area was originally designed with retail in
mind and expressed concerns with how placing a multi-family housing development will
impair future and existing development in the area.
Planner Bodmer responded that in the retail market, rooftops demand energy and demand
for retail. Additional housing could be a benefit to the area but it needs to be properly
designed. High density housing is becoming more common within retail areas.
Commissioner Sandahl expressed concerns over patio hours at neighboring restaurants
and how that may impact residential development or require restrictions placed upon
existing businesses.
Vice Chair Scanlan said that it will take some work to make this development work in the
retail area. He believes it could benefit the trailway system if done correctly. Vice Chair
Scanlan asked if this development would be higher in elevation than the townhomes
currently to the west of this site.
Planner Bodmer stated that the elevation difference would be interesting to explore and
verify.
Vice Chair Scanlan asked if this development would be better suited for the north end of
the development.
Commissioner Schindler stated that his preference would be for this development to not
add any residential. He agreed with comments made by other commissioners. He
expressed concerns over the amenities being located on the trail side of the property and
how people may think they are public amenities.
The applicant, Chris Moe (HJ Development), was present for questions.
City Attorney Hills pointed out that this is a sketch plan and there is no formal application
for this project, so a full proposal/presentation is not necessary. There should be no
opinions as to whether they would approve or deny it.
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
Dakota County, Minnesota
Planning Commission Minutes
February 7, 2024
Page 5 of 5
A representative for the development, Roger Fink (Trident Development) came forward
to share photos of previous housing developments they have done.
B. Review of Upcoming Schedule and Other Updates
The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 21, 2024,
7:00 p.m. The next City Council meeting is Thursday, February 8, 2024, 7:00 p.m.
7. ADJOURNMENT
Vice Chair Scanlan asked for a motion to adjourn.
MOTION: Commissioner Schindler moved, seconded by Commissioner Mahowald, to
adjourn the meeting at 8:32 p.m. Roll call vote: Ayes – 5 – Nays – 0.
Respectfully submitted,
______________________________________
Breanna Vincent, Planning Department Assistant
Approved by the Apple Valley Planning Commission
on 03/06/2024 . Jodi Kurtz, Chair
I T E M: 3.B.
P L A NNI NG C O MMI S S I O N ME E T I NG D AT E :March 6, 2024
S E C T I O N:Consent A genda
Description:
P arks Referendum - Rezoning Kelley Park
S taff Contact:
A lex Sharpe, A I C P, Planning and Economic Dev. S pec.
Department / Division:
Community Development Department
Applicant:
City of Apple Valley
P roject Number:
P C24-01-F
Applicant Date: 60 Days: 120 Days:
AC T I O N RE Q UE S T E D:
Adopt resolution setting public hearing to consider rezoning parcels in Kelley Park from
"PD-739" to "P" (Institutional).
S UM M ARY:
T he Planning C ommission is requested to adopt the draft resolution setting a public hearing
on March 20, 2024, meeting to receive comments regarding the rezoning of the multiple
parcels that make up Kelley Park. T he rezoning is being initiated by the C ity of Apple Valley
as part of the Parks Referendum project which was approved by voters in November 2023.
T he C ity is proposing to rezone Kelley Park properties from "PD-739" (Planned
Development 739) to "P" (Institutional) in anticipation of future improvements to the park. At
this time, specific park improvements are not being proposed and future discussion and
public outreach will occur as part of the Parks Referendum process. Institutional zoning
allows for parks, city facilities, and other similar uses and is the primary zoning designation
for the C ity's park system. Rezoning Kelley Park outside of the Planned Development will
not have an effect on the rest of the development. T he rezoning is being proposed to ensure
consistency between park projects associated with the referendum.
B AC K G RO UND:
Kelley Park is made up of six individual parcels and the right-of-way for Fontana Trail. As
stated, the rezoning will not result in any physical changes to Kelley Park at this time.
Rezoning is the first step in a series of activities/actions that will occur as part of the
referendum project. Future actions anticipated include the vacation of Fontana Trail and the
drainage and utility easements along common lot lines. Five of the six parcels that make up
Kelley Park will also be combined by platting to allow for additional park facilities. T he
remaining parcel is a small outlot with landscaping and benches in the center of the right-of-
way of Fresco Terrace, which will remain its own lot.
Procedure for Ordinance Amendment Public Hearing: In order to amend the zoning of a city-
owned parcel, the C ity must conduct a public hearing to receive comments from the public.
Sect. 155.400(B) states that zoning code amendments may be initiated by the petition of the
land owner, by action of the Planning Commission or by action of the C ity Council. When the
City initiates a rezoning, the Planning C ommission is tasked with setting the public hearing by
resolution. A draft resolution setting the public hearing for March 20, 2024 is attached to this
report.
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Exhibit
Resolution
Public Hearing Information
The public hearing concerns the shaded "SITE" area on the map, located at 6855 Fortino St (Kelley Park).
The property is approximately 6 acres and consists of 6 lots and Fontana Trail right-of-way. The property
is owned by the City of Apple Valley and is operated as Kelley Park. The current zoning, “PD-739”
(Planned Development 739) allows for park facilities as a permitted use.
As part of the parks referendum, the City is proposing to rezone the property, removing it from the
Planned Development and zoning it “P” (Institutional). Within the Institutional zoning district parks are a
permitted use. Most Apple Valley parks are zone for Institutional. Rezoning the property will not result in
any physical alterations to the park and is being proposed in conjunction with platting the properties to
combine parcels for park use.
The public hearing has been initiated by the City of Apple Valley.
Comments can be made in person at the hearing or sent via mail to Community Development
Department, City of Apple Valley, at 7100 147th Street West, Apple Valley, MN 55124. You may also e-
mail your comments at commdev@AppleValleyMN.gov. If you have any questions on this proposal,
please contact the Apple Valley Community Development Department at (952) 953-2575 during business
hours, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2024 - 01
A RESOLUTION SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR ZONING AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 462.357 the City of Apple Valley has
adopted, as Title XV of the City Code of Ordinances, zoning regulations to control land uses
throughout the City; and
WHEREAS, §155.005 provides the procedure to establish Zoning Districts within the City;
and
WHEREAS, voters approved two parks bond referendums at a special election held on
November 7, 2023 that will provide funding for improvements to the City’s park system, including
the construction of park buildings and/or structures (“Parks Bond Referendums”); and
WHEREAS, improvements and construction of park facilities are subject to all applicable
City Code and standards; and
WHEREAS, as part of the Parks Bond Referendum projects, the City of Apple Valley is
initiating a proposed rezoning of property associated with Kelley Park at 6855 Fortino St. from
“PD-739” (Planned Development 739) to “P” (Institutional); and
WHEREAS, said property is made up of multiple parcels legally described as:
Lots 1, 2, Block 6, The Legacy of Apple Valley North
And
Lot 1, Block 5, The Legacy of Apple Valley North
And
Lot 1, Block 4, The Legacy of Apple Valley North
And
Outlots A, B, The Legacy of Apple Valley North
And
Fontana Trail Right of Way between 152nd St. W and Fortino St.
WHEREAS, the Apple Valley Planning Commission finds that current conditions warrant
the consideration of rezoning said parcels; and
WHEREAS, Section 155.400 of the City Code of Ordinances provides for such procedure
to effect an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Apple Valley, Dakota County, Minnesota, that a public hearing before the Apple Valley Planning
Commission be set for March 20, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. to consider rezoning of Kelley Park parcels
from “PD-739” (Planned Development 739) to “P” (Institutional).
ADOPTED this 6th day of March, 2024.
__________________________________
Jodi Kurtz, Chair
I T E M: 4.A.
P L A NNI NG C O MMI S S I O N ME E T I NG D AT E :March 6, 2024
S E C T I O N:A nnual Business
Description:
Nominate and Approve Officers
S taff Contact:
B reanna Vincent, Department Assistant
Department / Division:
Community Development Department
AC T I O N RE Q UE S T E D:
Nominate and elect the following officer positions:
1. Chair
2. Vice-C hair
3. Secretary
S UM M ARY:
In accordance with C ity Code, the Planning C ommission provides for an annual business
meeting to be held. At the City C ouncil meeting of February 22, 2024, existing members
Mahowald and Sandahl were reappointed for a 3-year term. All other commissioners are
serving within their 3 year terms.
T he purpose of the annual business meeting is to elect officers for the year and approve the
annual report from the previous year.
B AC K G RO UND:
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I T E M: 4.B.
P L A NNI NG C O MMI S S I O N ME E T I NG D AT E :March 6, 2024
S E C T I O N:A nnual Business
Description:
A pprove 2023 Planning Commission A nnual Report
S taff Contact:
Tim Benetti, Community Development Director
Department / Division:
Community Development Department
AC T I O N RE Q UE S T E D:
Approve 2023 Planning C ommission Annual Report.
S UM M ARY:
T he C ommunity Development Department is responsible for the work of the Planning
Commission. C ity ordinance requires that a report of C ommission be provided annually
representing the work during the preceding year, 2023.
B AC K G RO UND:
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Report
APPLE VALLEY
PLANNING COMMSSION
2023 ANNUAL REPORT
MARCH 6, 2024
Planning Commission
Members of the Apple Valley Planning Commission include:
• Jodi Kurtz, Chair
• Paul Scanlan, Vice-Chair
• David Schindler, Secretary
• Keith Diekmann *
• Philip Mahowald
• Becky Sandahl
• Jeff Prewitt
The role of the Planning Commission is to make recommendations to the City Council on a variety
of land use requests and issues. In 2023, there were 32 land use development applications.
Land use development applications may consist of multiple actions that must be reviewed and
analyzed by staff, then presented to the Planning Commission for recommendations followed by
the City Council for their consideration and action. Staff prepared agendas, agenda packets, and
minutes for 14 regularly scheduled Planning Commission meetings; and 13 public hearings were
held in 2023.
The following is a breakout of requests considered by the Planning Commission in 2023:
Comprehensive Plan Amendments 0
Zoning Ordinance Amendments/Rezonings 5
Conditional Use Permits 6
Subdivision/Preliminary Plats/Final Plats 1
Site Plan Reviews/Building Permit Authorizations 6
Vacations 0
Variances 13
Environmental Reviews 0
Interim Use Permits 0
Miscellaneous 1
Sketch Plans 0
________________________________________ ________
Total 32
In some instances, the complexity of some land use requests may include comprehensive plan
revisions, re-zonings, zoning amendments, variances and site plan/building permit authorizations
on property located in established neighborhoods and may require a different level of analysis
during the entitlement process. Changes in these fully developed areas of the City often require
multiple meetings for the complete review following considerable time.
* Mr. Diekmann submitted his resignation in December 2023
Overview
Key 1 - Service
The Planning Commission reviewed and recommended several development projects to the City
Council. A few projects were approved and finalized in the Orchard Place commercial areas, and
a number of existing in-fill sites in select areas of the industrial, commercial and retail sectors
throughout the City, including the Downtown District.
On the residential side, the City approved 30 new dwelling units as part of Eagle Pointe 2nd
Addition on the former Apple Valley Golf Course site; and approved the final plat of Woodwinds
8th Addition, which provides for six (6) new single-family residential parcels.
For institutional uses, the City approved the new Apple Valley Police Operations facility adjacent
to the City’s Central Maintenance Facility; while the reconstruction of the City’s Fire Station No. 2
site continues and is expected to be completed in mid-2024.
The following projects were reviewed by the Planning Commission in 2023, which represent a
growing trend of new and infill type developments, along with potential redevelopment
opportunities:
Commercial Projects
Key 3 - Business Oriented, Key 9 – Successful Downtown
Lunds and Byerlys
In May 2022, the City approved the new
44,600 sq. ft. Lunds and Byerly’s at 15550
English Avenue (SW corner of Pilot Knob
and 155th Street). Construction of the store
began shortly thereafter and was officially
opened in September of 2023. In 2023, the
Planning Commission reviewed and
approved a conditional use permit for on-
sale liquor and outdoor patio and mezzanine
areas.
Schuler Shoes
The City approved a new 7,920 sq. ft. retail
shoe store business at 15560 English
Avenue – immediately next to Lunds &
Byerlys. Construction began in early
spring 2023 and was completed and
opened in October 2023.
Chase Bank
In May 2023, the City approved a new
3,320 sq. ft. bank facility at 15580
English Avenue, which will sit to the
south of the new Lunds & Byerlys and
represents the second bank location in
the community. Construction began in
late fall 2023 and is expected to be
completed in spring/summer 2024.
Dick’s Valley Service
The City approved a site and building plan
for a new 15,488 sq. ft. auto repair and
office facility, along with a conditional use
permit to allow for outdoor storage of
damaged vehicles, located at 5905 Upper
147th Street W. This new business
represents the second location for the
Dick’s Valley Service, which is a long-time
and locally owned/operated business by
the Tuthill families of Apple Valley. The
existing site at 6781 – 146th Street W. will
remain in use.
Higher Ground Daycare
(n/k/a Guidepost Montessori)
The City approved a conditional use
permit and site/building plan for a new
commercial daycare use at 14605 Glazier
Avenue. The daycare is expected to open
in mid-2024.
Obsidian Cobblestreet Strip Mall
Obsidian Development applied for a site
plan and building permit authorization for
a 4,915 sq. ft. multi-tenant retail building
on the vacant lot near the NE corner of
Emperor Ave and 158th St. W. A personal
fitness use was originally planned for the
site (but withdrew), and a building has yet
to be started or completed. Staff continues
to work with the owners and businesses
that have expressed interest in the site.
Popeye’s Restaurant
In March 2023, the City approved Apple Valley
Square 7th Addition, which approved the re-
platting of a section of the Apple Valley Square
mall properties, in order to accommodate a new
2,519 sq. ft. drive-thru restaurant pad site. The
new restaurant began construction in late 2023
and is expected to be completed by summer
2024.
Cider Ridge Marketplace
Construction of the 7,400 sq. ft. multi-tenant
neighborhood commercial building at 7495 -
145th Street W. began in late 2022 and was
completed and opened with the newest Caribou
Coffee shop in September 2023. A CUP for the
coffee shop’s drive-thru window was re-
approved in March 2023.
Health Partners Clinic
A new 56,600 sq. ft. two-story medical office/clinic building was approved in early 2023 and began
construction in mid-2023. The new facility is located in the Orchard Place Development at 15350
English Avenue and is expected to be open in summer 2024.
Chafin Veterinary Clinic
A new 6,400 sq. ft. veterinary clinic and offices
were approved in 2023 and is nearing
completion. The clinic is also part of the Orchard
Place development and is located at 15420
English Avenue.
Apple Valley Lincoln
Apple Auto / Gulbrandson Real Estate
received approvals for the redevelopment of
the former Apple Valley Auto Mall properties
at 7125 - 151st Street West with a new
20,800 sq. ft. Lincoln automobile dealership.
The building is now open and offering new
and used vehicle sales, auto service, and
parts storage.
Homshuk and Bodega 42
The City approved a new 21,350 sq. ft.
restaurant/bar, mercado type market with
butcher and deli, with a production and
warehouse storage area at 6991 – 152nd
Street W. Construction was completed and
the business officially opened in October
2023.
My Salon Suites
Construction was completed on this new
multi-tenant/suite style salon building at
6906 - 153rd Street W. and officially opened
in September 2023. This building contains
up to 48 suites for stylists, beauticians, and
personal care service providers.
Floor and Décor
The City approved the redevelopment of the
former AMC Theater site on the southeast
corner of Cedar Ave and 155th Street W. for
a new 80,000 Floor & Décor home
improvement store. Construction began in
late 2022 and was completed in September
2023.
Time Square Mall Improvements
In early 2023, the Time Square Mall changed ownership to TS Shopping Center LLC. The owners
immediately began a remodeling and retrofit to the front exterior areas of the two main mall
buildings; removed and replaced all tenant/store wall and ground signs; and made significant
stormwater drainage improvements to the rear area of the north mall building.
Before
After
X-Golf
QRA Enterprises completed a full remodeling of a key central interior tenant space in Time Square
mall, located at 7587 - 148th Street W. The business includes a 9,850 sq. ft. indoor golf simulation
ranges, entertainment space, and sit-down bar and restaurant areas, and also provides a 675 sq.
ft. outdoor (seasonal) patio space.
Industrial Projects
Key 3 - Business Oriented
Uponor Experience Training Center
Uponor has a long history of providing
educational opportunities to contractors,
architects, and the construction community.
The new Uponor Experience Center, located
within the main facilities at 5925 – 148th
Street W. has been a key tool in their goal to
connect with these groups. Uponor now
provides a state-of-the-art lab/testing area, a
demonstration product display area that
helps show-case their products used in
general commercial and residential
construction and provides a special mini-
fabrication area dedicated to the training and
instructional needs for workers in a variety of
building trade fields.
Frito-Lay (PepsiCo) Facility
Construction was completed in late fall of
2023 on the new 117,000 sq. ft. office/
warehouse flex industrial building at
6080 - 147th Street W. This new facility
serves as a main distribution center for
various snack chips and other food
products to metro/area retailers.
Johnny Cake Business Center
A new 112,170-sq. ft. industrial
office/warehouse/flex building next
to Abdallah Candies and located at
6175 - 147th Street W. was
completed in early 2023. Although
no tenants or users have moved in,
the site still generates interest from
various real estate groups and
potential business tenants or
users.
Institutional Projects
Key 1 – Service; Key 3 – A Great Place to Live
Apple Valley Fire Station No. 2
The City approved the phased
demolition of the existing Fire
Station No. 2 and re-
construction of a new 30,111
sq. ft. two story station located
at 13995 Galaxie Ave. The
project was started in early
2023 and is nearing
completion for 2024.
Apple Valley Central Maintenance
Facility Expansion Project
The City approved the proposed
expansion plans for the Central
Maintenance Facility (CMF), which
include a new 18,240 sq. ft. fleet
maintenance building, a 24,800 sq. ft.
vehicle storage addition, a 1,400 sq.
ft. front office addition, and a 1,040
sq. ft. parks storage garage addition,
and some roadway and on-site
stormwater treatment improvements.
Construction is expected to begin in
mid-2024 and be completed by 2025.
Apple Valley Police Operations
Project
In conjunction with the planned CMF
expansion work, the City approved the
construction of a new 25,000 sq. ft.
police operations building for fleet
storage and office area, located at
14325 Flagstaff Avenue and
immediately south of the CMF site.
Construction is expected to begin in
mid-2024 and be completed by 2025.
Related to this item, the Planning
Commission also adopted a PC
Resolution finding purchase of property
and construction of police operations
building to be consistent with 2040
Comprehensive Plan.
Residential Projects
Key 2 – A Great Place to Live; Key 12 – A Community for a Lifetime
Eagle Pointe Development
The City approved Eagle Pointe 2nd Addition, or the second phase of the redevelopment of the
former Apple Valey Golf Course property. The plat includes 30 lots for 19 townhome parcels and
11 separate villa style parcels. Phase I is nearing completion, and the second phase is now
underway.
Applewood Pointe Senior Cooperative
and Townhomes
Construction of the new 98-unit senior co-
op building located at 12444 Pilot Knob
Road is now completed, and new residents
are moving in. The developers (United
Properties) are still planning to provide or
develop the 7 new townhomes near the
front area of the development, which will
require separate consideration by the City
at a future date.
Woodwinds 8th Addition
McNearney Homes received approval for a 6-lot subdivision located at 5297 - 140th Street W.
The roadway and utility improvements were completed in late 2023, and new homes are now
being constructed.
Apple Valley Estates
The City approved the location of two new 16' x 76' manufactured homes at Apple Valley Estates,
13001 Pennock Avenue.
Variances
Key 2 – A Great Place to Live
The variance process is statutory, allowing the Planning Commission to make recommendations
on practical difficulties that sometimes occur in the exact enforcement of the City Code. The City
reviewed the following variances in 2023.
Lunds and Byerlys Sign Variance
Lunds and Byerlys applied for a variance to allow two freestanding signs on their new store lot
located at 15550 English Avenue. Code allows for a single freestanding sign per parcel. The
Planning Commission reviewed the request at two meetings and unanimously recommended
denial. The applicant withdrew their application prior to City Council review.
Ozkhan Variance
Property owners at 8106 Lower 147th Street W. requested a variance to increase the height of a
front yard fence from maximum height of 3.5-ft. up to 6-ft. along a side property line. The Planning
Commission reviewed the request and recommended denial, whereby the owner withdrew their
application prior to City Council review.
Hersi Variance
Property owners of 181 – 150th Street W. requested a variance to reduce the side yard setback
from 5 ft. down to 3-ft. for the purpose of installing two new window wells along said side yard
area. The Planning Commission gave favorable recommendation of approval and the City
Council followed with unanimous approval.
RHB Advantage Variance
Applicant requested a setback variance for a vacant residential lot located at the NE corner of
138th Street and Gossamer Way. The variance would allow a 20-ft. setback where a 30-ft. setback
is required along a streetside area. The Planning Commission gave favorable recommendation
of approval and the City Council followed with unanimous approval.
Apple Valley Police Operations Building Variance
The City approved a variance to reduce drive aisle setback from 20-ft. down to 5-ft. needed for
the proposed Apple Valley Police Operations project.
Frykman Variance
The Frykman family of 13511 Granada Avenue requested a variance to increase the maximum
allowed impervious surface coverage on a residential property from 35% to 42.2%, which would
allow the construction of a 12' x 28' (336 sq. ft.) third stall garage addition to the dwelling. It was
determined that an earlier swimming pool project (with concrete deck surround) had inadvertently
exceeded the allowed impervious surface coverage for this property; and it was recommended
the owners adjust and reconsider this request. At this time, this case remains open (per the
request of the Applicant) and may be reconsidered at a later meeting in 2024.
McKague Variance
The McKague family of 12787 Durham Way applied for variance to exceed the Shoreland Overlay
maximum impervious surface amount of 25% up to 43.91% of total surface coverage. The
applicants were looking to construct a new pool and patio in their rear yard, along with an on-site
stormwater mitigation system. The Planning Commission gave initial review and consideration at
the August 16, 2023 meeting, whereby the matter was tabled, and the owners later withdrew their
application.
Wings Mortgage Variance
Wings Credit Union applied for a 7' sign setback variance at their Wings Mortgage facility at 15025
Glazier Avenue. The Planning Commission gave favorable recommendation at the October 18,
2023 regular meeting, and the City Council followed with unanimous approval.
Wings Credit Union Variance
Wings applied for a 12' sign height variance for a proposed new ground sign located at the SE
corner of Glazier Avenue and 147th Street West. The new sign is designed to be 20-ft. in height
and contain a static message board plus an electronic message board. The Planning Commission
provided initial consideration at the October 18, 2023, meeting; tabled the matter to the November
15th meeting, where a recommendation of denial was given. The Applicant withdrew their
application shortly thereafter and prior to this matter being presented to the City Council. The
applicant was encouraged to apply for a text amendment to the planned development, which was
later approved.
Zoning Code / Ordinance Amendments
Key 1 – Service; Key 3 – Business Oriented
PD 703 Zone 6 Amendment
CLOVR School of Massage requested consideration of allowing a “massage teaching school”
activity in conjunction with their approved CLOVR Life Spa business, located at 15730 Emperor
Avenue. Staff recommended revising the definition of “Vocational School”, thus allowing other
or similar businesses to include an educational component when it is ancillary to the primary
business operations. The proposed amendment was given favorable recommendation from the
Planning Commission and was accepted and officially adopted by the City Council in April 2023.
Short Term Rental Ordinance
in March 2023 City staff introduced a proposal to amend Zoning Code Chapter 122 regarding
rental property registration regulations, along with amending Chapter 155 regarding short-term
rental of residential properties. The new amendments provided specific language that prohibits
the registration of residential dwellings for any period less than 30 consecutive days; and added
language and standards towards “Dwelling[s]” and “Home Occupations”. The City Council later
adopted the ordinance amendments in June 2023.
Planned Development No. 703 (Cobblestone Lake) Amendments
In November 2023 city staff presented a proposal to amend a certain part of Planned
Development No. 703 in the Cobblestone Lake area. The purpose of the ordinance amendment
is to fix clerical errors, dated citations, formatting, and to remove sand and gravel mining from the
list of permitted uses in the Cobblestone Lake area. The amendment was given favorable
recommendation from the Planning Commission and was accepted and passed by the City
Council under Ordinance No. 1126, dated December 14, 2023.
City Code Chapter 154 – Signs
In November 2023, city staff proposed certain amendments to the City’s Sign Ordinance to correct
errors affecting multi-story buildings, increase the area of directional signs and fix clerical errors.
The proposed language would permit signs to be installed on the uppermost story of a multi-story
building but prohibits signs from being installed on multiple stories of a building. The amendment
also allows pedestrian-oriented signage on floor one; and provided for added size allowances for
directional type signs in commercial/industrial sectors. The proposed amendment was given
favorable recommendation from the Planning Commission and was accepted and officially
passed by the City Council under Ordinance No. 1128, dated January 11, 2024.
Ordinance Amendment to PD-290 Zone 3 (Wings Credit Union)
In December 2023, city staff presented a request from Wings CU to amend Chapter 155,
Appendix F-Article 2 of the Apple Valley City Code revising Section A2-5 (A)(6) to allow the
installation of a freestanding ground sign with a maximum height of 20’ and total sign area not to
exceed 80 sq. ft. This amendment request was made in part due to a failed request for a variance
for a new main ground/monument sign. Upon a recommendation of denial by the Planning
Commission, the City Council later chose to revise the amendment to allow a sign with a maximum
height of 16 feet (instead of 20 feet) and 80 square feet for sign area, which was passed under
Ordinance No. 1127, dated January 11, 2024.
Ceremonials / Miscellaneous
Key 1 – Service; Key 3 – Business Oriented
2023 was one of the busiest years on record for new businesses opening up or relocating to the
community. In partnership with the Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce, the City participated or
assisted with three new groundbreaking ceremonies, including Chafin Veterinary Clinic, Health
Partners Clinic, and Dick’s Valley Service.
The City also participated in over 20 new business ribbon cutting events, including Lunds and
Byerlys, Homshuk and Bodega 42, Punch Pizza, Caribou Coffee, AV Modern Dentistry,
Basecamp Fitness, Burn Boot Camp, CLOVR Life Spa, Discover Strength, Face Foundrie’, Floor
and Décor, Lifeway Chiropractic & Wellness, My Salon Suites, Pet Supplies Plus, Pizza Karma,
Pure Barre’, Restore, Schuler Shoes, Sweet Treasures, Uponor Experience Center, and Wings
Credit Union, and others.
On July 28, 2023, the much-anticipated Treetop Trail in the Minnesota Zoo was officially
completed and opened to the public. The event was attended by all members of City Council,
state representatives, senators, and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, where the day was officially
proclaimed “Minnesota Zoo Treetop Trail Day”. The 1.25-mile walking path brings guests up to
32 feet above the ground (the former monorail train system) and provides a year-round and
accessible journey into nature for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
In November 2023, Apple Valley citizens passed a $73+ million Parks Bond referendum. The City
spent two years collecting input from citizens through surveys, public meetings, and social media
to compile a draft project list that includes improvements in every City park. Some key park
facilities such as the Community Center, Redwood Park, and Kelley Park will see significant
facility construction while other parks will see trail, baseball and softball, or natural resource
improvements.
In support of the City’s sustainability goals, all of the municipal-owned facilities (Fire Station No.
2, CMF Expansion Improvements, Police Department Operations Building) will seek Green Globe
certifications. These projects, combined with the parks referendum, will result in over $100 million
of investments in Apple Valley.
Each year the Minnesota Real Estate Journal hosts an annual awards ceremony to recognize
exceptional commercial real estate projects and communities in over thirty categories. The City
of Apple Valley was recognized and awarded Minnesota’s "2023 City of the Year”.
The City was selected for this honor as a result of several milestone accomplishments, including
being the site of multiple key development projects, achieving green globe certifications for new
and updated City buildings, holding two AAA bond ratings, hosting engaging community events
throughout the year for residents, and more. The City Council acknowledged receipt of this award
at their April 27th meeting.
After 28 years of dedicated service, former City Planner, Tom Lovelace retired from the City
of Apple Valley on January 20, 2023. Kathy Bodmer was promoted to City Planner, and Alex
Sharpe to Planner/Economic Development Specialist.
[Pictured: Tim Benetti, Ben Pierson, Raquel Diaz, Mary Klein, Breanna Vincent, Tom, Alex Sharpe, Kathy Bodmer]
In January 2024, the Community Development Department welcomed Sydnee Stroeing as the
new Associate Planner. Sydnee is a recent graduate from the University of Minnesota with a B.S.
in Urban Studies. Outside of work, she spends most of her time with her baby, August. She also
enjoys being outdoors, taking her dogs on walks, and going up north to visit her family.
In January 2023, the City also welcomed the new Community Development Director Tim Benetti,
who replaced retired and former director Bruce Norquist. Tim graduated with a B.A. in Urban
Geography from the University of Northern Iowa and has a Master of Public Administration degree
from the University of Nebraska. He has worked as a planner/director in various communities in
Iowa, Nebraska, and Minnesota, with the most recent being the City of Mendota Heights. Tim
lives in Woodbury along with his wife Barb, four children, and enjoys golfing, cooking, and reading.
Respectfully submitted,
TB
____________________________________ 03/06/2024
Tim Benetti
Community Development Director
City of Apple Valley, MN
I T E M: 7.A.
P L A NNI NG C O MMI S S I O N ME E T I NG D AT E :March 6, 2024
S E C T I O N:Other Business
Description:
Review of Upcoming S chedule and Other Updates
S taff Contact:
B reanna Vincent, Department Assistant
Department / Division:
Community Development Department
AC T I O N RE Q UE S T E D:
N/A
S UM M ARY:
Next P lanning Commission Meetings:
Wednesday, March 20, 2024 - 7:00 p.m.
Public hearing applications due by 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 21, 2024.
Site plan, variance applications due by 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.
Wednesday, April 3, 2024 - 7:00 p.m.
Public hearing applications due by 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.
Site plan, variance applications due by 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20, 2024.
Next City Council Meetings:
T hursday, March 14, 2024 - 7:00 p.m.
T hursday, March 28, 2024 - 7:00 p.m.
B AC K G RO UND:
N/A
B UD G E T I M PAC T:
N/A