4C, Draft Minutes 12-17-12 Special

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—DECEMBER 17, 2012 8 Councilmember Holden stated there was room along the rear of the building for the car port and the expense of the proposed car port would be made up in rental fees. Councilmember Tamble appreciated the idea of the car ports, but felt this should be left up to the developer. Mayor Grant indicated if this was a brand new building, the site would have underground parking available to its residents. However, because this was a redevelopment, the proposed car ports would offer future residents an option for covered parking. He agreed the parking should be appealing and financially feasible. Councilmember Werner did not support the car port as they were not visually appealing. Councilmember Holden stated her issue was that the site would not have garages or underground parking available. The proposed car port would be a small convenience offered to a portion of the residents. Stuart Nolan, 1000 West 801h Street, Bloomington, introduced himself as Mr. Davidson's business partner and explained that he managed thousands of apartments in the Midwest. He understood that car ports served a purpose, but expressed concern with snow removal in the winter months if the car port was required. The amendment failed (2-3) (Tamble, Werner and Holmes opposed). Councilmember Holden indicated the proposed efficiency and one-bedroom units required a number of variances from the City. She requested the number of efficiency apartments be reduced by two. This would create 19 efficiency units and six (6) one-bedroom apartments. She expressed concern with the demand for a 350 square foot efficiency unit. AMENDMENT: Councilmember Holden moved and Mayor Grant seconded a motion to add Condition 23 which would reduce the number of efficiency units to 19 and increasing the number of one-bedroom apartments by one. City Planner Beekman asked which efficiency units should be combined. Councilmember Holden requested the EUB units that were 358 square feet in size be combined into a one-bedroom unit. The amendment carried (3-2) (Tamble and Werner opposed). Councilmember Holmes questioned if the City had any rules as to the use of EIFS. City Planner Beekman discussed the design standards required on the front fagade noting the minimum standards were being met. She stated the areas not being altered did not have to be brought up to meet the minimum standards.