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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION WORK SESSION – DECEMBER 9, 2015 2 City Planner Streff explained that staff has the ability to evaluate new building materials and review the Code for consistency. Chair Thompson stated that she was concerned about the alignment of commercial buildings along Lexington Avenue. She discussed how difficult it was for delivery trucks to maneuver through these sites. She wanted to ensure that appropriate delivery space was provided for new developments in the City. Commissioner Zimmerman asked how the Planning Commission would be involved in the TCAAP development. Community Development Director Hutmacher discussed the TCAAP development timeline and noted that all proposed developments would go before the JDA, unless the plans required adjustments to the TRC. Commissioner Holewa requested information from staff on the solar and geothermal situation on TCAAP. City Planner Streff provided an update to the Commission noting that Ramsey County has been in contact with the City regarding the approval process for a solar array development. He explained that staff has no further information regarding the use of geothermal on the TCAAP site. B. 2015 Planning Commission Year-End Report City Planner Streff provided the Planning Commission with a summary of the planning activities for 2015. The following accomplishments were discussed: • Reviewed and processed 25 planning cases that included 38 separate land use requests. • City approved seven Zoning or City Code amendments, with three amendments still pending, that addressed window transparency, accessory telecommunication antennas, public use dedications, outdoor display and sales, resale businesses, temporary parking, and stormwater management. • Processed the adoption of the TCAAP Redevelopment Code, the rezoning of the 427-acre TCAAP property, and the amendment to the Arden Hills Comprehensive Plan to incorporate the TCAAP Master Plan. Chair Thompson opened the floor to Commission questions. Chair Thompson thanked staff for their dedication to the City and for keeping the Commission members thoroughly informed on planning issues. Councilmember Holmes appreciated all of the Planning Commission’s efforts over the past year and thanked Commissioner Holewa for his service to the City of Arden Hills.