04-08-15-PC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – March 4, 2015 3 12. The proposal is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance as the Ordinance generally allows flexibility for unique situations when impacts to surrounding properties are minimized. 13. The proposal is consistent with the Arden Hills Comprehensive Plan as it allows the reasonable use of commercial or light industrial property. 14. The proposed variance would have no significant impact to the conditions of the site. 15. The proposed variance is unlikely to have negative impacts to the property or to the neighborhood as a whole. 16. The proposed variance does not appear to be based on economic considerations alone. City Planner Streff stated that the findings of fact for the Site Plan Review & Variance support a recommendation for approval. However, if the Planning Commission chooses to make a recommendation for denial, the Findings of Fact would need to be amended to reflect the reasons for the denial. If the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Site Plan Review & Variance, staff recommends the following four (4) conditions: 1. That the project shall be completed in accordance with the plans submitted as amended by the conditions of approval. Any significant changes to these plans, as determined by the City Planner, shall require review and approval by the Planning Commission and City Council. 2. That the applicant shall submit a financial surety in the amount of 125 percent of the estimated costs of all landscaping and trees prior to the issuance of a grading permit. The financial surety shall be in the form of a letter of credit issued by a FDIC-insured Minnesota bank. The purpose of the letter of credit is to ensure that landscaping and tree requirements are completed in the event that the developer defaults on the approved plan. The City will hold the letter of credit for two years after the installation of landscaping. The letter of credit should not expire during the two-year period. 3. That any newly created parking space or parking area shall meet the parking regulations stated in Section 1325.05 of the City Code. 4. That a Grading and Erosion Control Permit shall be issued by the City before the commencement of any construction, grading or disturbance of soil within the parking lot area. City Planner Streff reviewed the options available to the Planning Commission on this matter: 1. Recommend Approval with Conditions 2. Recommend Approval as Submitted. 3. Recommend Denial 4. Table Chair Thompson opened the floor to Commissioner comments. Commissioner Zimmerman asked if a variance was granted to the property allowing for the existing parking shortfall. City Planner Streff commented that a PUD was created which allowed for the parking shortfall on this property. Commissioner Jones questioned if the parcel to the north was owned by the City.