06-23-14 Special WS - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—JUNE 23, 2014 3 Councilmember Holden believed that the County was more concerned with job creation rather than the number of residential units. It would cost the City more to service residential units than commercial properties. For this reason, she supported Option B. Mayor Grant asked if the topography in another area of TCAAP would support a ball field. Community Development Director Hutmacher indicated that this may be an option if a grade change was made. Mayor Grant asked if the Council was leaning towards Option B. Councilmember Holmes did not support Option B as she did not believe it made sense to put a ball field in a residential area. Councilmember McClung noted for the record that he objected to Option B. He commented that his least favorite park in the City was Perry Park due to the adult softball field. He suggested that the adult fields be eliminated from TCAAP before eliminating any residential development. He believed that green space near business/commercial was a plus. He explained that he could support Option A. Public Works Director Maurer clarified that adult softball teams were generally organized by employees of local businesses and not neighborhoods. He believed that additional businesses in TCAAP could mean more softball teams. He understood that businesses would not locate in TCAAP just because of the adult softball fields. Mayor Grant opted to have an adult softball field in a residential area. He believed that it would be problematic in the downtown area. He anticipated that teams would still visit the Town Center area after games. Councilmember Holden suggested that the Town Center park/green space be made into flex space in order to increase the amount of flex space. City Administrator Klaers commented that this could be done as part of Option A for the master plan land use map. Councilmember Holmes inquired if the County has requested that the softball field be moved. Mayor Grant clarified that this was his suggestion. Community Development Director Hutmacher explained that this field would be the last one developed. If a softball field was not needed, tennis courts or a soccer field could be developed which may be a better fit with the residential area. City Administrator Klaers commented that he was pleased by the recommendations the Council made at its last meeting. He stated that based on the comments this evening and unless directed otherwise, Option A would proceed.