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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – March 9, 2011 5 3.A. Planning Case 11-004; Concept Plan Review; Pulte Development Group; 4500 Snelling Avenue North – Not a Public Hearing (continued) Commissioner Holewa clarified the PUD process would provide the most protection to the wetlands. City Planner Beekman stated this was correct. Commissioner Modesette explained she would like to know what Rice Creek Watershed has to say about the wetlands and the current proposal before she supports increasing the buffer area. Chair Larson explained the 20-foot setback and using signs to identify the wetland areas should be adequate for protecting them. He expressed concerns about having the homes closer to the road and how this would look when compared to the surrounding neighborhoods. City Planner Beekman stated the last couple of developments the City has approved have had reductions in front yard setbacks. The reduced setbacks do give the neighborhood a different look but the City has not seen any adverse effects of this. Commissioner Holewa pointed out the homes on the other side of the street from the proposed development would have the standard 40-foot setbacks. Commissioner Modesette stated it would be helpful to have a better understanding of how the hydrologic drainage pattern and how this is accommodated in the future for the April 6, 2011 meeting. Commissioner Hames requested Staff to discuss with the applicant the possibility of increasing the rear setbacks so that the project would not have to through the PUD process. This would maintain the 40-foot front yard setbacks and protect the wetlands in the back. A 40-foot setback does allow residents to construct a front porch, which is something the City would like to encourage. Chair Larson closed the floor to Commissioner comments. City Planner Beekman clarified the Planning Commission would be interested in a buffer for the wetlands while maintaining the 40-foot front yard setbacks. B. Planning Case 11-005; Preliminary and Final Plat, and Master and Final PUD; Trinity Lutheran Church; 3245 New Brighton Road – TABLED to April 6, 2011 Commissioner Holewa moved and Commissioner Thompson seconded a motion to Table Planning Case 11-005; Preliminary and Final Plat, and Master and Final PUD; Trinity Lutheran Church; 3245 New Brighton Road to the April 6, 2011, Planning Commission Meeting. The motion carried unanimously (6-0). UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS A. Year-End Review