01-26-99 PTRC - Laserfiche WebLink

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V IS Other Comments on Bethel College ark Project: - The City's programming needs and how they fit in with Bethel's needs are crucial to this project. - The soil is a high clay base. Soil testings would be done in the future. - If the City Council is not interested in pursuing the project, Mr. Hjelle indicated that Bethel may develop the park on its own. Craig stated that having the land stay empty is not useful to Bethel. - If the project is worth pursuing, the City Council would have some of the same discussions. If the project seems feasible, the Council would make a recommendation back to the commission to meet with the neighborhood and evaluate a more detailed site plan. This course of action does not necessarily mean that the project would still take place. - Commission members indicated that they owe it to the community to pursue this project. The commission will evaluate our needs and decide if the park will be of benefit to the City. - Corbin C. spoke on behalf of the residents who were at the meeting. He mentioned wetland issues, feasibility of site, Minnesota state laws, time lines, traffic issues, home value, impact on City park property, access points and parking issues as areas of concern. - Mr. Hjelle responded to the above comments and indicated that there are procedures in place to deal with any wetland issues. Bethel strives to be good citizens to the environment and will work with whatever agencies it needs to. In regards to the traffic issues, Mr. Hjelle noted that a traffic study has been done and that Bethel would work with the county and City on any other traffic situations. - Mr. Fritsinger indicated that this project is at least one year out from starting. He also mentioned that any trails would tie into the trail systems of Bethel and Arden Hills. - Bethel engineering representative indicated that the west side is unusable due to the wetlands. He mentioned that Bethel is sensitive to all users and the neighborhoods with regards to this issue. It was also stated that the site could be problematic in design but that all design is open for discussion and changes. - A resident asked about the distance the parking lot would be from abutting homes. It was stated that the parking lot is 60-70 feet away from the homes and this does not take into consideration any buffering of the site. - The site is currently zoned residential. - Some residents indicated they were more in favor of homes or town homes for the site.