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The applicant has indicated that they will be marketing these units to college students who attend Bethel and Northwestern College, Staff would recommend that agreements be made with both institutions to provide transportation to and from the campuses from this site to reduce vehicle trips. Staff is also working on an analysis to determine the maximum number of trips that the ingress and egress from the whole site can accommodate. This will help with the review of future uses for Lot 2. 6. Additional Review The Ramsey County Sheriff reviewed this application and has submitted a letter addressing their strongest concerns (Attachment Q. The Sheriff indicated that the phasing plan is very troublesome, as is it nearly impossible to effectively close off the third and fourth floor of the building, which then can become areas for criminal activity. The Sheriff also indicated concerns over the lack of a lighting plan, and the fact that the building would not have a secured entrance on the north side. In general, the Ramsey County Sheriff did not speak in favor of this application; however, asked that if the City chooses to approve it, that the applicant be required to participate in the Crime free Multi-family Housing Program. The applicant has indicated that he is willing to do this. The Building Official and Fire Marshall reviewed the plan and have submitted their comments (Attachment Q. Both share the Sheriff's concerns regarding the phasing of the building. Discussion Staff has spent a considerable amount of time evaluating this proposal, and continues to have concerns regarding the proposed use of the site. The distinction between dwelling units and SRO's, or even this proposed use and the previously approved student housing use, may appear slight; however, below the surface significant differences become clear. While the applicant intends to market this building to students of Bethel University and Northwestern College, the applicant cannot limit residents to only this demographic, as was possible with the student housing facility. The lack of kitchen facilities, which distinguishes this use from multiple dwelling units, is significant when taking into account the rents these units will generate, and the limited food service available on site. Staff was not able to identify any other cities in Minnesota that allow SRO's, boarding houses of this size, or rooming houses. Minneapolis once allowed rooming houses, but has disallowed them due to persistent issues. Even near the University of Minnesota, City of Arden Hills Planning Commission Meeting for March 7, 2012 P:W lanningWlanning Cases12012112-002-Holiday Inn Plat and PUD(Pending)103-07-12-PC Report-1201 County Road E PUD.docx Page 10 of 13