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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – May 6, 2015 11 <br /> <br /> <br />There being no additional comment Chair Thompson closed the public hearing at 7:45 p.m. <br /> <br />Bob Bjorklund, Athletic Director at Bethel University, reported that the proposed location <br />would best serve the function of the building and soccer field. <br /> <br />Mr. Hofer added that costs would increase significantly if the building were to be shifted to the <br />western edge of the soccer field. <br /> <br />Commissioner Hames stated that she read the letter from a resident expressing concern with the <br />noise being generated from the sporting events on campus. She requested that Bethel address <br />this concern, in addition to requiring all event parking to be located on campus. She wanted to <br />see Bethel be better neighbors by addressing the parking and pedestrian safety issues surrounding <br />their sports complex. <br /> <br />Chair Thompson requested that Bethel address the type of sound system used on the Ona Orth <br />Athletic Field. <br /> <br />Mr. Bjorklund reported that the new building would have no additional speakers added to the <br />system. He commented that the current sound system would remain in place. He explained that <br />he has been in contact with the concerned neighbor to ensure that his concerns were being <br />addressed. <br /> <br />Chair Thompson asked if Bethel would be addressing the parking and pedestrian safety <br />concerns surrounding the sports complex. <br /> <br />Mr. Bjorklund explained that access to the new building would be through the existing <br />driveway on the site and that pedestrians would cross Snelling Avenue through the designated <br />crossing. He understood that parking was an issue for the campus during large sporting events. <br /> <br />Commissioner Holewa suggested that Bethel University hold an annual meeting with adjacent <br />homeowners to discuss its plans for the coming year. <br /> <br />Commissioner Jones anticipated that Snelling Avenue would be very busy this summer with the <br />County Road E bridge being out. He encouraged Bethel to take this into consideration when <br />addressing pedestrian safety. <br /> <br />Chair Thompson asked if any significant trees would be removed through the proposed project. <br /> <br />City Planner Streff reviewed the site plan and reported that all significant trees would remain. It <br />was noted two new trees would be planted per the landscaping section of the Zoning Code. <br /> <br />Commissioner Zimmerman moved and Commissioner Hames seconded a motion to <br />recommend approval of Planning Case 15-009 for a Conditional Use Permit Amendment in <br />order to construct a soccer facility building on the Ona Orth Athletic Field complex located <br />at 3900 Bethel Drive, based on the findings of fact, submitted plans, and the seven (7) <br />conditions in the May 6, 2015, Report to the Planning Commission. The motion carried <br />unanimously (5-0).