06-09-21 Planning Commission - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – May 5, 2021 7 3. Recommend Denial 4. Table Chair Vijums opened the floor to Commissioner comments. Justin Lark, Chick-fil-A representative, thanked the Commission for their consideration. He reported he had met with the Council at a worksession meeting to discuss this proposal. He commented on the lighting on the west side of the building and explained he would be removing the sign on the western side of the building. He indicated he has moved the monument sign closer to Lexington Avenue per the Council’s recommendation. He discussed the buffer space that was located between the hotel and Chick-fil-A and noted this area would be relandscaped. It was noted a gentleman’s agreement would be pursued with the hotel for employee parking. He commented further on the parking situation and requested a variance from the City’s parking requirements. Commissioner Weber thanked the applicant for the additional information. He stated he was concerned with the double drive thru given how close this property was to Lexington Avenue. Mr. Lark discussed how vehicles would access and exit the property. It was noted all cars exiting would be pulled further from Lexington Avenue to assist with proper vehicle queuing. Joseph Vavrina, HR Green, commented on the traffic study and reported the intersection of Lexington Avenue and Red Fox Road had a service level of B during the AM peak and was at level C during the PM peak. Commissioner Jeffreys asked if the areas of flexibility were typical for new developments. Planning Consultant Kansier reported each site and PUD was unique. She did not believe this applicant was requesting more flexibility than any other applicant. Councilmember Holmes commented the main concern was how close the drive thru lane was to the hotel. She indicated other requests did not have this concern. She stated she would be happy to hear from the Quality Inn regarding this matter. Commissioner Jeffreys questioned what the hours of operation would be for Chick-fil-A. Mr. Lark stated Chick-fil-A would be open Monday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and would be closed on Sundays. Commissioner Jeffreys explained the traffic surprised her because she thought this business would have had more of an impact on the adjacent intersection. Chair Vijums inquired if the canopy was an approved building structure. Planning Consultant Kansier reported this was the case, noting the canopy would require a building permit.