03-09-16 PC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – March 9, 2016 10 on outdoor display and sales areas for commercial properties, as presented in the March 9, 2016, report to the Planning Commission. Senior Planner Bachler reviewed the options available to the Planning Commission on this matter: 1. Recommend Approval with Conditions 2. Recommend Approval as Submitted. 3. Recommend Denial 4. Table Chair Thompson opened the floor to Commissioner comments. Commissioner Lambeth asked how the City would be enforcing the proposed Code amendment. Senior Planner Bachler stated that all businesses requesting an outdoor display area would be required to obtain an administrative permit and provide the City with a site plan showing where the outdoor display area would be located. Staff would review the plan based on the City Code requirements. A permit would be granted with specific standards and the City would be responsible for policing the permit. Commissioner Lambeth questioned what kind of signage would be allowed on outdoor display areas. Senior Planner Bachler commented that the proposed Code amendment does not address signage. Properties would be required to conform to the existing standards in the Sign Code. Chair Thompson supported the proposed amendment and believed the City would now have an opportunity to educate business owners on what was and was not allowed within outdoor displays. Commissioner Neururer asked how long the administrative permit would be in effect. Senior Planner Bachler reported the permit would be permanent as long as the approved display area was not modified. If changes were made, a permit update may be required. Commissioner Jones discussed the outdoor display area that was approved for the Frattalone’s Ace Hardware store. Senior Planner Bachler clarified that the City approved a Conditional Use Permit for a seasonal garden center for Frattallone’s and that the outdoor display amendment being reviewed this evening was distinct from this. Commissioner Jones inquired if the City addressed the seasonal turnover of outdoor products.