8B, Planning Case 12-006 – Bethel CUP Amendment & Variance

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May 9, 2012, Draft Planning Commission Minutes Planning Case 12-006 — Conditional Use Permit Amendment; Bethel University; 3900 Bethel Drive — Public Hearing City Planner Meagan Beekman reviewed the applicant has requested a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) Amendment and Variance to construct a wellness center attached to the north side of the Robertson Physical Education Center. City Planner Meagan Beekman provided an overview of the request stating Bethel University is proposing to construct a 52,448 square foot wellness center over two phases. The wellness center would be an addition to the north side of the Robertson Physical Education Center and Hagstrom Student Center, in the same general location as the existing temporary classrooms. The footprint of the addition would be 13,112 square feet and would consist of four floors, with the first floor being located below grade. The average height of the addition would be 39 feet, six inches. The height of the addition would be comparable to the height of the buildings to which it is attached. City Planner Meagan Beekman noted Bethel University operates under a CUP Master Plan. As the College comes forward with plans, they are reviewed against the Master Plan for consistency. While building plans consistent with the Master Plan require a site plan review, those not included in the original plan must be approved through a CUP Amendment. The Master Plan includes a future fitness center, which is shown as an addition to the existing sports and recreation complex on the south side of the campus. At this time, Bethel is proposing to construct a fitness center, but in a different location that was previously anticipated, and with a broader array of services and amenities related to the overall wellness of the students. Because the location and size of the project are being adjusted from what was included in the 1996 Master Plan, a CUP Amendment is necessary. Furthermore, the maximum height allowed for buildings in the B-1 District is 35 feet. A variance is needed to allow the building to be constructed at a height of 39 feet, six inches. City Planner Meagan Beekman stated as part of the application, Bethel University is also proposing adjustments to the timing and location of the temporary classrooms that are located in the general area of the proposed wellness center. Two of the four classrooms are proposed to be relocated to the parking area on the north side of the Community Life Center, while the other two would remain in their current configuration. Upon completion of Phase II all four temporary classrooms would be removed. City Planner Meagan Beekman reviewed the Zoning Requirements. City Planner Meagan Beekman reviewed Bethel University is proposing this project over two phases: She indicated on an aerial view map the locations of the proposed temporary classrooms and Phase I and Phase II of the project.