05-14-12-R Draft Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MAY 14, 2012 10 Councilmember Werner explained he felt there was a need for the proposed efficiency housing given the rental rates for one and two-bedroom units in the metro area. Councilmember Tamble read several comments from a letter submitted by Northwestern College. It was noted the community would benefit from additional housing focused towards college students and young professionals. While this was not traditional, it would meet the needs of the community. Councilmember Holden stated the Council was lacking a baseline of information to properly evaluate the plat and PUD request. She appreciated the efforts of Mr. Davidson, but noted additional information was necessary to fully review the request. In addition, the Planning Commission was unable to review the recently submitted material. Mayor Grant commented projects of this scale needed to be sustainable long term and of high quality that adds to the community. He wanted to see this site redeveloped and reused. With a higher level of detail, perhaps the Planning Commission and Council could make a better determination. He wanted to see this property redeveloped correctly as it was along Arden Hills' Main Street. Councilmember Holmes noted she reviewed the proposed floor plans and was concerned there were no closets in the apartments. She indicated studio apartments typically had a walk-in closet. She had an issue with the units that would overlook the basketball court and fitness center. She requested staff seek further information on the minimum size for apartment units in neighboring cities. She feared how the proposed units would be sustainable in the long run. Councilmember Holden questioned how the Xbox area and fitness center would be maintained by the applicant. City Planner Beekman stated the condition for approval would require the applicant to maintain these areas. She suggested the City Attorney provide comment on this issue. City Attorney Filla commented the entire redevelopment process worked more smoothly when applicants provided a complete application. The City would then be aware of how the entire site would be used. In addition, the process works better when the Planning Commission has a chance to review all of the information prior to the Council. The Council did not have comments from the Planning Commission on all the information provided. Mayor Grant asked if how the future ownership of the building should be considered. City Planner Beekman explained the developer's agreement would run with the site and not the current applicant. Rob Davidson, TAT Properties, addressed the Council and understood their frustration this evening. He stated the building had several different proposals in the past. He introduced his current development team and indicated his current submission was viable. The density has been reduced from 150 to 120 units with the addition of kitchens in each unit. He commented a