10-08-14 PC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 15 Council work session. Much of the discussion centered around how to ensure that commercial development was attractive and that it was a good fit with other TCAAP development. The developers suggested that rather than limit the amount of space used for storage, the City could consider some of the following criteria: • Requirement for Class A exterior finish including windows • Limits on the number of dock doors per thousand square feet • Maximum clear height of twenty feet • Requirement for berming and/or significant landscaping in front of buildings to soften their appearance for residential drive-by traffic Community Development Director Hutmacher reported these criteria would allow manufacturers and high-tech industries to locate at TCAAP but would discourage distribution and warehouse users, which would bring a large volume of trucks but relatively few high-quality jobs. The developers believed that the site’s amenities including open space, trails, and proximity to retail and services would be attractive to users that offer high-quality jobs. Community Development Director Hutmacher commented that on September 22, 2014, representatives from Pratt Homes and Mattamy Homes attended the City Council work session. The developers provided insight into housing products desired by the market, housing characteristics including size and setbacks, and features and locations of parks and amenities. Developers advised the Council on how to have good transitions between residential and other uses and how to avoid monotony in residential development. Community Development Director Hutmacher stated based on developer comments, the City Council has directed staff to include a minimum ten-foot setback in every district to accommodate private utilities. Some districts may have greater setbacks. The City Council has also discussed allowing development to back onto park and open space areas provided that appropriate public access and views of open space are preserved. In some areas, this may not be possible depending on whether a trail can be accommodated within the water resources area or needs to be provided along an adjacent road. Community Development Director Hutmacher explained that on October 13, 2014, the City Council will discuss the JDA governance process, particularly with regard to how to balance the need for flexibility with maintaining the vision established by the City. The City Attorney and JDA Attorney are preparing information for City Council review. A brief discussion of park dedication requirements will also occur. Community Development Director Hutmacher reported the next workshop with Gateway Planning will be held at 6:00 pm (after the JDA meeting) on Monday, November 3, 2014. Planning Commissioners are invited to attend all Gateway workshops and City Council work sessions. Staff and consultants are scheduling work for the regulations and policies component of the master planning process. October 13, 2014, Special Work Session at 5:30 pm, Community Room • JDA Governance and Approval Process • Park Dedication Ordinance Discussion • Discuss Chapters 1-5