03-18-13 Jt City Council, PTRC, and PC

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—MARCH 18, 2013 8 Chair Larson discussed the 2013 Planning Commission Work Plan with the Council. He discussed the role, upcoming tasks, and items of concern for the Planning Commission. He noted the Planning Commission has two open seats at this time and will be working to find volunteers. He anticipated the development of the TCAAP site will be a major focus in the coming years. It was noted development in the metro area is beginning again. He hopes the zoning within TCAAP will be mixed use and flexible as this will assure the development meets the growing needs of the community. Councilmember Holden questioned if the B-2 design standards were finalized. City Planner Beekman discussed the design standards implemented in 2009 stating the Planning Commission was further considering the design standards to see if they work for the City. Mayor Grant asked if the sign code would be reviewed. City Planner Beekman reported the sign code was going to be reviewed given the fact recent requests were not in alignment with the City's vision. She indicated this would be important to complete with the pending development of the TCAAP site. Mayor Grant requested comment on the open space and park reserve zoning designation. City Planner Beekman stated in 2008 the City updated the Comprehensive Plan with two separate park land designations. She noted AHATS was park reserve with City parks designated as open space. State law requires the City to update the Zoning Code to match its Comprehensive Plan. A park zoning designation would protect the property from development in the future and would be an important tool for the City to have in place. Councilmember Holden asked what the difference would be between a park designation and an open space zoning designation. City Planner Beekman discussed this in detail stating the permitted use would vary and noted these zoning classifications would only apply to City owned property. Councilmember Holden questioned how the new variance requirements were affecting the Planning Commission. Chair Larson was pleased with the new requirements stating this has greatly assisted the Commission in reviewing requests. Further discuss ensued regarding the positive growth in the housing market. The Council thanked the Planning Commission for their presentation and input this evening.