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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 9, 2013 12 Commissioner Holewa asked if Bethel required freshmen and sophomores to live on campus. Ms. Nelson commented freshmen were required to live on campus unless living at home with a parent. After that time, students could elect to stay on campus or move off campus. She indicated 67% of students choose to live on campus. Commissioner Holewa questioned when Bethel University would take ownership of the Pine Tree property. Ms. Nelson explained Bethel University would be closing on the property by year end if the City approves the conditional use permit. Commissioner Zimmerman inquired how Bethel would manage the current leases on the property. Ms. Nelson stated Bethel would honor all of the existing leases in place and would continue to operate the property as a multi-tenant building. She reported the space was currently 60% vacant. Commissioner Bartel suggested the City more closely define the term “traditional undergraduate student” within the conditions. Ms. Nelson discussed the differences between traditional undergrads and non-traditional undergrads. Chair Larson found this to be an operational item for Bethel that did not need to be regulated by the City. He questioned if the office space design on the Pine Tree campus would properly suit Bethel’s needs. Ms. Nelson commented this has been considered by the leadership team and the space would fit well into Bethel’s future plans. Chair Larson opened the public hearing at 8:23 p.m. Chair Larson invited anyone for or against the application to come forward and make comment. Robert Woodburn , 1220 Ingerson Court, discussed the history of the 2 Pine Tree Drive parcel and the surrounding land uses. He wanted to see the surrounding residents and village protected from increased traffic and noise, while still allowing the neighbors to use the private trails. Mr. Woodburn also expressed concern with Bethel’s future on the Pine Tree site and if additional buildings would be constructed. Pauline Richards , 3544 Glen Arden Road, stated she lived one block from Snelling Avenue and County Road E. She found this intersection to be dangerous and thought the proposed use on the Pine Tree property would further aggravate the traffic in this area. There being no additional comment Chair Larson closed the public hearing at 8:35 p.m.