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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—MARCH 19, 2012 9 Councilmember Holden stated this would address her concerns when non-controversial issues were approved with no comments. There would be a greater reflection of the planning cases in the meeting minutes if a brief staff report were given. Chair Larson explained the information provided within the staff report was extremely thorough and addressed all of the issues with each planning case. Commissioner Stodola indicated the summary within the staff report provided such complete information it is not typically rehashed within the Planning Commission meeting. Commissioner Holewa questioned why some issues were brought to the Council for discussion prior to being reviewed by the Planning Commission. City Planner Beekman stated this was done only for issues that required a policy decision, such as rezoning or increased density as was the case with Presbyterian Homes and Pulte. This allows the applicant to receive feedback to see if it is worth pursuing their project. After input is provided by the Council, the item would then be brought to the Planning Commission for a work session discussion. Commissioner Thompson stated it would benefit the Commission to discuss the key points or review a checklist of information for each case to assure that controversial issues are addressed. City Planner Beekman explained the information provided to the Planning Commission for each case from staff was drafted after much discussion with the applicant. The Planning Commission then reviews the case to see if it is in compliance with City Code. If this is the case, the Planning Commission recommends approval. It is then left up to the Council to approve or deny with further comments or conditions. Chair Larson further discussed design standards for the City in comparison to other communities. He stated businesses were willing to alter their trade package building standards so long as the buildings remain recognizable. Commissioner Stodola questioned if specific design standards could be set for the B-2 zoning district and not for others. City Planner Beekman stated this was allowed. Mayor Grant moved the discussion along to the 2012 Work Plan. The B-2 design standards were discussed. City Planner Beekman stated the Planning Commission could review the standards at an upcoming meeting to see if the standards were still meeting the goals and objectives for the corridor. Councilmember Holden agreed stating new products were available since the standards were created.