01-13-14-R - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION NOVEMBER 18, 20134 Laurie Moore , Goodwill, commented that Goodwill was working to be a leader in the second hand goods industry in the metro area. She described the store proposed for Arden Hills, noting it would be well lit and have a great deal of natural light. Scott Nelson , DJR Architecture, Inc., discussed the proposed building in further detail noting the proposed energy efficiency of the building. He commented that the entry to the building would face the parking lot. The tree plantings and landscaping plan was reviewed with the Council. He noted that the building proposed for Arden Hills would closely resemble the Chanhassen and Maple Grove Goodwill stores. Councilmember Werner requested further information on the windows. Mr. Nelson discussed the windows proposed for the entry and throughout the entire building. Councilmember Holden asked how the revenue generated at this location would be used. Ms. Moore noted a portion would be used for a training program. She noted that Goodwill currently had 38 retail training programs. Councilmember Holden questioned where the trailer would be parked. Mr. Nelson described the location and stated that a trailer would be onsite at all times. He indicated the trailer would be used by Goodwill for recycling of second hand goods. He did not anticipate that the trailer would be visible from Lexington Avenue. Councilmember McClung stated the trailer would be visible from eastbound traffic along West County Road E. Mayor Grant commented that the applicant was proposing a large building for this location. He suggested the building size be reduced for a lower traffic volume business. He expressed concern with traffic volumes along West County Road E and how this building would be used if Goodwill were to move out of the space. Councilmember McClung expressed the same concerns with the size of the building and traffic along West County Road E. He asked what the applicant was asking from the City and what the applicant was willing to provide, in terms of a superior building. It was his opinion that the size and scale of the proposed building were too large for the parcel. Mayor Grant asked if the applicant should move forward with the traffic study. Councilmember Holden recommended that the consultant hired to complete the traffic study be different than the one that the developer initially hired for the E Street Flats redevelopment project. Mr. Davidson understood this concern and noted it had been discussed with staff. He was in favor of hiring his own consultant for the traffic analysis and then allowing the City to hire a third party consultant to review the information.