11-06-19 PC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 9, 2019 6 Mike Schwartz, Mounds View Public Schools, explained at this time the space was being used for four classrooms. He noted the space was up to code with respect to building and fire code. He indicated a plywood and rubber floor would be installed in the building. Commissioner Lambeth questioned if the space was already being used as a weight room by the school district. Mr. Schwartz reported the school district was not aware of the fact it needed to go through this process. He stated he has since been working with staff, the Lake Johanna Fire Department and building officials. Commissioner Lambeth inquired if the building was currently in use and if this impacted the IUP. Mr. Schwartz reported the building was being used. Planning Consultant Kansier stated instances like this happen all the time and staff proceeds as if the use was not in place. She explained the City was not obligated to take any specific action regarding this IUP. Commissioner Lambeth discussed the size of the weight room (3,200 square feet) and asked if the area being used was being driven by the dimensions of the building. Community Development Manager/City Planner Mrosla stated this was the case and noted it was the City’s intent to not allow for any expansion of the weight room/fitness space. Commissioner Subramanian commented on the high level of traffic that occurs in the morning surrounding the school. He questioned if a traffic study had been completed by the school. Community Development Manager/City Planner Mrosla explained a traffic study was being completed by WSB. He noted the traffic study would focus on AM and PM peaks. He reported the students using the weight room were using the space during non-peak hours. Mr. Schwartz discussed the timeline for the students using the weight room prior to or after school. He commented traffic patterns in and out of the school were smoothing out. Commissioner Subramanian asked what would happen if toxins were found in the building, given the fact the building was already in use. Community Development Manager/City Planner Mrosla stated from a life safety perspective the building already meets building code requirements. He indicated the school district was proposing the weight room as a temporary or interim use. Commissioner Wicklund commented on the type of work that would be conducted if a Phase I or Phase II Environmental Study was completed on the building. Chair Gehrig asked if the suggested dates within the permit were identified by staff.