8A, Planning Case 12-014 - Zoning Code Amendment - Multi-family Dwelling Units

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION—September 5, 2012 3 • Creating additional conditional use criteria for multi-family dwellings including: o Minimum unit sizes of 600 feet • Submission of a security plan and lighting plan at the time of development proposal • A requirement that enclosed parking be provided on a per unit basis • A requirement that common areas be provided • Percentage of efficiency apartments allowed within a specific development • Minimum bike parking requirements • Window covering requirements City Planner Meagan Beekman stated the City Attorney has reviewed the proposed regulations and has no issue with the proposed language of the regulations. City Planner Meagan Beekman offered the following Findings of Fact for the Planning Commission's consideration: 1. The proposed amendment advances the City's land use goals because it creates high development standards for multi-family housing that will visually enhance development and promote compatibility with nearby properties and neighborhood character. 2. The proposed amendment advances the City's implementation strategies identified in the Land Use Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan by developing design standards for multi-family housing, which is a residential land use, that ensure the construction of high quality, sustainable, and aesthetically enhanced developments. 3. The proposed amendment advances the City's housing goals because it will promote the development of a variety of housing opportunities that are suitable for a mix of ages, incomes, and household types. 4. The proposed amendment advances the City's implementation strategies identified in the Housing Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan by establishing architectural/design guidelines for new multi-family dwelling units. City Planner Meagan Beekman stated Staff recommends approval of Planning Case 12- 014 to add Sections 1305.04 Subd 70 and 1325.045, and to amend Sections 1320.05 and 1325.06 Subd 1.J of the Zoning Code pertaining to Multi-family Dwelling Units in the City, as presented in the September 5, 2012, report to the Planning Commission. If the Planning Commission makes a recommendation this planning case will be on the September 24, 2012 City Council meeting agenda. Commissioner Stodola asked for clarification whether senior housing would fall under the zoning changes while nursing homes and assisted living would not. City Planner Meagan Beekman confirmed she was correct. Commissioner Zimmerman asked if this would apply to new construction and City Planner Meagan Beekman stated it would as any new construction would need to adhere to these standards. Vice Chair Thompson asked about the security plan. City Planner Meagan Beekman stated the Ramsey County Sheriff's Department has a program for security of multi- family housing. The Sheriff's Department would review the construction plans and