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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – March 4, 2015 6 1. Recommend Approval with Conditions 2. Recommend Approval as Submitted. 3. Recommend Denial 4. Table Chair Thompson opened the floor to Commissioner comments. Commissioner Holewa asked if staff had input on the location of the tree plantings. City Planner Streff commented that staff did not provide input on the location of tree plantings, and understood that the applicant was trying to create a buffer along the south property line. Dean Hanson, Hanson Builders, introduced himself and his company to the Planning Commission. He commented that his company has been in business since 1979 and completed approximately 75 homes upscale homes each year. He provided comment on the neighborhoods he has constructed throughout the metro area. He believed that this would be a special development with signature homes with a price range of $750,000-950,000. Mr. Hanson discussed the lot size and noted all seven lots conformed with Arden Hills requirements. He stated that of the 98 significant trees on the site, 67 of them would be saved. He reported that each lot would also be irrigated and well landscaped. He explained how the existing hard surface would be reduced on the site, which would improve the water quality for the area. He explained that each home would be energy efficient. He noted the Home Energy Rating System score on his homes ranged from 46 to 56. Mr. Hanson provided comment on the active radon emission systems that come standard with each home. He then reviewed the traffic study and the proposed driveway alignment along County Road E2. He requested that the Planning Commission remove Condition #19 requiring that the driveway between Lot 1 and Lot 2 be aligned with New Brighton Road. He also asked that there be no striping of New Brighton Road. Mr. Hanson requested the Planning Commission allow him one early building permit to start on a model home. He provided a summary of the public benefits on his proposed development. City Planner Streff stated that the construction of a model home would be handled within the Development Agreement. Commissioner Holewa questioned if Mr. Hanson had considered using solar panels on the seven homes. Mr. Hanson commented that there was little or no return on solar panels because his homes were built so efficiently. Commissioner Zimmerman asked if there would be a homeowners association. Mr. Hanson indicated there would not be a homeowners association as each property was completely autonomous.