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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – July 8, 2015 2 Commissioner Zimmerman moved, seconded by Commissioner Holewa, to approve the June 17, 2015, Planning Commission Special Work Session Meeting minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously (6-0). PLANNING CASES A. Planning Case 15-014; Conditional Use Permit – Verizon Wireless – 2 Pine Tree Drive – Public Hearing Associate Planner Bachler stated that Verizon has requested a CUP to install twelve wireless panel antennas and related equipment on the existing Bethel University building at 2 Pine Tree Drive. Verizon currently has antennas installed on the tower located at 1296 County Road F, near the intersection of Hamline Avenue and Interstate 694. The purpose of the additional antennas at 2 Pine Tree Drive is to improve the provider’s wireless service in the southeast quadrant of the City along County Road E between Lexington Avenue and Highway 51. Associate Planner Bachler indicated that the proposed antennas would be attached to the existing penthouse structure located on the roof of the principal building on the property. All antenna equipment would be painted with a solid color to match the color of the existing penthouse structure. The overall height of the existing building measured to the penthouse roof is 62.7 feet. The antennas would each measure eight feet in length and would not extend beyond the penthouse roofline. Verizon would lease the required roof and utilities right-of-way space from Bethel University. The applicant has submitted a letter from the Verizon engineer working on the project, wireless coverage maps, and a complete plan set. Associate Planner Bachler explained that the City previously approved a CUP in 2009 allowing for the installation of a roof-mounted monopole and antennas for Clearwire Wireless at 2 Pine Tree Drive (PC #09-020). The existing monopole extends 13 feet above the penthouse roof. The Zoning Code requires a CUP for all new antenna installations in the City. The proposed antennas would be an accessory use to the principal higher education and office uses on the property. Site Data Land Use Plan: Community Mixed Use Existing Land Use: Office, Public & Institutional Zoning: B-2, General Business District Current Lot Sizes: 19.16 Acres Topography: The property is a large, heavily wooded site, with rolling topography. Associate Planner Bachler reviewed the surrounding area and the Plan Evaluation. Associate Planner Bachler indicated that the Planning Commission must make a finding as to whether or not the proposed application would adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood or the community as a whole based on the aforementioned factors. Staff offers the following findings of fact for consideration: