Laserfiche WebLink
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 30, 2014 8 <br /> Councilmember Holden stated that another reason the roundabout was removed was because the <br /> County needed time to complete further study. She commented that there were concerns with <br /> how the thumb road would connect to County Road I. <br /> Mayor Grant indicated that the City did not oppose a connection at County Road I. He then <br /> reviewed the minor adjustments that were made to the land use map by the Council. It was noted <br /> that the location of the spine road may change slightly based on soil conditions. <br /> Councilmember McClung stated that the Council originally discussed cutting back on green <br /> space and through recent discussions, green space was added near the Hill neighborhood for a ball <br /> field. He had concern with this adjustment as it took land away from residential. For this reason, <br /> he could not support the map as presented. He suggested that the ball field be moved to the east <br /> side of the spine road into the development flex space and that 2.5 acres of residential space be <br /> reinstated. He indicated that this would be a compromise on the land use map that he could <br /> support. <br /> Councilmember Holden understood these concerns; however, she believed that the current ball <br /> field location met the County's desire for an increased amount of development flex space. In <br /> addition, the ball field location would allow residents to use the green space without having to <br /> cross the spine road. <br /> Councilmember Werner objected to having 5.1 acres of green space on residential land. He <br /> feared how the ball field lights would impact the residents living in the Hill neighborhood. <br /> Mayor Grant discussed the flex business district and encouraged the Council to embrace this <br /> space. He was encouraged that the County was hoping to have 4,000 jobs on the TCAAP site. He <br /> addressed the financial benefits and believed that the site had a good balance between residential, <br /> green space and flex business space. He supported the land use map as presented and found it to <br /> be a good plan for the property. <br /> Councilmember Holmes asked if a ball field could be located on the other side of the spine road. <br /> Mr. Dresdner explained that this may be difficult given the location of potential intersections and <br /> the grade of the property. <br /> Councilmember McClung appreciated the comments made this evening, but noted that he would <br /> not be able to support the land use map as presented. <br /> Councilmember Werner indicated he would not be supporting the land use map either. <br /> Councilmember Holden supported the land use map as presented. She believed that the Council <br /> met the County's concerns while still having the site look and feel like Arden Hills. <br /> Mayor Grant understood that the National Guard may be constructing ball fields and that this <br /> may be a partnership the City and/or County should pursue. However, the Council was voting on <br /> the plan presented this evening and he believed it was well-balanced. He supported the land use <br /> map as presented. <br />