Laserfiche WebLink
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—MARCH 16, 2015 10 <br /> Councilmember Holmes stated that she believed that this was a unique business that required <br /> pallets, and that it has had outdoor storage for years. She indicated that she would like the City to <br /> work with its businesses to ensure their success. <br /> Councilmember McClung reiterated that the exterior storage should not have been allowed at <br /> any time. <br /> Mr. Frattallone commented that he was willing to buy the site and improve the property. <br /> Mayor Grant understood that Frattallone's was a long standing successful business in Arden <br /> Hills. He supported the garden center. He wished that the site was larger in order to allow Mr. <br /> Frattallone more options. He too struggled with the outdoor storage on this site. <br /> Councilmember Holmes questioned when the outdoor storage would be at its peak. <br /> Mayor Grant was in favor of the Council continuing to work with Mr. Frattallone. <br /> Mr. Frattallone commented that his busiest time for outdoor storage was April and May; <br /> however, he noted that the garden center would have items through the end of November. He <br /> asked if the storage area could be treated as retail space associated with the garden center. <br /> Community Development Director Hutmacher reported that City Code does not distinguish <br /> between outdoor storage and outdoor sales display. She explained that a garden center was both <br /> outdoor storage, display and sales. She believed that staff could figure this language out. <br /> Councilmember Holmes suggested that staff request an opinion from the City Attorney on this <br /> item. <br /> Further discussion ensued regarding an outdoor sales area. <br /> City Administrator Klaers concurred with Councilmember Holmes and stated that staff would <br /> discuss the concerns of the Council with the City Attorney. <br /> Mayor Grant requested that staff also speak with Councilmember Holden regarding this <br /> Planning Case. <br /> 2. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND STAFF UPDATES <br /> Mayor Grant indicated the Energy Resiliency Task Force met last week. The group will be <br /> presenting a final white paper to the JDA in April, and the information will also be shared with <br /> the Council and staff. <br /> Mayor Grant commented that the City was reactionary in terms of its code enforcement. He <br /> believed that this was appropriate for residential properties, but not for commercially zoned <br /> properties. He suggested that the City be more proactive on the business side. <br />