02-22-11- J, WS - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—FEBRUARY 22, 2011 9 Planning Commission Member Scott stated that he is concerned that no longer requiring a variance may impact neighbors. The consensus of the Council and the Planning Commission was that Staff should proceed with creating a process that would allow for improvements without a variance and bring that proposal back to the Council and Planning Commission for review. 2.0 2011 Planning Commission Goals and Work Plan City Planner Beekman stated the Council will be meeting in March to discuss goals and priorities. Staff would like the Planning Commission to provide input to the Council on a brief list and description of projects they see as important. She presented the following items for consideration and asked for input from those present as far as other priorities: • Adopt wetland setbacks within the Zoning Code. • Develop a Parks and Open Space Zoning District and rezone the City's park areas and the _ balance of the TCAAP and AHATS property. • Begin the design process for implementing the County Road E public improvements as defined in the Guiding Plan for the B2 District. • Major revision of the City's Subdivision Ordinance. • Provide training opportunities for Councilmembers and Planning Commissioners on land use planning and law. Councilmember Holden spoke in favor of training for the Planning Commission members so they have a clear understanding of the expectations of their positions. Planning Commission Member Holewa suggested that an open meeting law course would be helpful Planning Commission Member Modesette questioned how much effort would be required to update the subdivision ordinance. City Attorney Filla explained that most concerns would be addressed within the terms of development agreements required for subdivisions. Planning Commission Chair Larson stated that the City needs a better definition for buildable area. Councilmember Holmes suggested that only certain sections of the subdivision ordinance need to be revised rather than the entire ordinance. She also suggested that the rental registration program restrictions should be reviewed. City Planner Beekman explained that the rental program is under the Community Development work plan. Mayor Grant agreed that rental registrations need to be reviewed particularly in relation to where college students are renting single family homes.