02-5-14-PC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION WORK SESSION JANUARY 8, 20142 , presentations are included with the staff memo to the Planning Commission, along with a Kimley-Horn memo addressing traffic and transportation questions. At the December 26, 2013, special City Council work session, the Council identified a list of Master Plan discussion items. The Council is seeking JDA, Planning Commission, and public feedback on these discussion items and on all aspects of the Master Plan. The Council will consider feedback prior to making changes to the draft plan in February/March. Council Liaison Holmes explained that the City Council welcomes any and all comments on the draft Master Plan from the Planning Commission. The City Council reviewed the draft Master Plan at two work sessions in December 2013, and noted that the following areas of the draft Master Plan need additional discussion: 1. Wetlands, central water feature, and surface water management 2. Roundabout and connection to County Road H 3. Residential densities and mix of housing types 4. Green space and active recreation areas 5. Flex space development Andrew Dresdner , Cuningham Group, presented the Planning Commission with detailed information on the TCAAP Master Plan. He reviewed what the consultants have heard thus far, the existing conditions on the site, and how the City can move forward with sound planning and design. A proposed layout for the TCAAP site, with three distinct neighborhoods was reviewed. The proposed density and housing styles were discussed. Staff then asked the Commission for comments or questions. Chair Larson opened the floor to Commission questions. Council Liaison Holmes noted the proposed Master Plan was very preliminary. She commented the lot sizes within the neighborhoods are yet to be determined. Commissioner Scott asked if there was contamination on the primer-tracer area. Chair Larson understood that this area did have contamination. Commissioner Holewa suggested the City consider harnessing energy from the water on site. He indicated it would be interesting to see smaller sized lots in comparison to the current single- family residential lots in Arden Hills. He was supportive of providing workforce housing options on the site. Commissioner Thompson wanted to see the site take advantage of the water energy on site as well. She wanted to see the TCAAP site be pedestrian friendly. She encouraged staff to consider smaller housing options for empty nesters and not simply large single-family homes. This would allow residents to age in Arden Hills.