1B, Multi-Family Dwelling Regulations Discussion

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I ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION WORK SESSION—JULY 11, 2012 3 Commissioner Holewa did not feel it was necessary for the City to regulate the size of the units and that this should be market driven. i Chair Larson agreed stating future buildings would benefit from a variety of unit sizes and not having all unit sizes the same. Commissioner Thompson commented Arden Hills was unique as it housed two rather expensive colleges and had a need for rental properties. Commissioner Holewa indicated the security at the apartment complex would be key. Commissioner Harries stated the building orientation and parking issues would have to be addressed to increase the security. City Planner Beekman explained that all new apartment buildings would be required to work with the Sheriff's Department to assist with crime prevention through environmental design. She noted the Holiday Inn redevelopment did propose to have onsite security 24 hours a day. The Commission then discussed secured entry and access to multi-family dwellings. Councilmember Holmes stated the Holiday Inn building was not built for long term residency. If redeveloped into apartments,there were no closet space or proper built-ins. It was her opinion that 300 square feet was too small for an apartment unit. Commissioner Stodola stated a market study showing what size units were being rented in the community would benefit the City greatly at this point, as it would show the demand for units based on size. Planning Intern Horton discussed his findings after speaking with several neighboring communities. He explained that some cities had a minimum unit size while others did not. He commented one major difference was the standards between new development and redevelopment. He found no standards that would allow for a 300 square foot efficiency unit. In addition, one city limited the number of efficiency units to 10%within a multi-family complex. Commissioner Haines recommended the Commission consider drafting language for both new multi-family developments along with standards for the redevelopment of a multi- family property. City Planner Beekman stated the Code did need to focus on the multi-family needs of the entire City and not just meet the needs of college students. Commissioner Stodola cautioned the Commission from setting the standards too strict and therefore dictating how a developer shall build a multi-family dwelling in the City of Arden Hills.