12-06-1989 Regular Planning Commission Meeting Agenda

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Minutes of the Arden Hills Planning Commission Meeting, 12-6-89 Page 3 CASE #89-21 (Cont'd) 6. General Arrangement of Site Plan Components: The general arrangement appears to meet ordinance requirements for setbacks, landscaped area, parking and lighting; except the parking setback along the north property line. The irregularly shaped front yard landscaped area provides a pleasant contrast to the customary 20-foot-wide linear parking setback. The driveways onto Lexington Avenue are intentionally aligned across the street from access points to the proposed Target complex in Shoreview. 7. Permitted Uses/Special Uses: The Planner advised the applicant that there are numerous permitted uses in a B-2 District for a shopping center, however, some service uses require a Special Use Permit. Bergly suggested the developer review proposed uses with staff to determine if an SUP will be required. 8. Aesthetics of Building and Site: The aesthetics of the building and site should be considered in terms of neighboring uses and the desire of the City to upgrade this aging industrial area. Bergly recommended the "character of the old industrial era should be eliminated as this area is converted to a retail/service use; suggested the applicant consider minimizing the effect of the surrounding uses. He noted the landscaping will be reviewed in more detail as the plan is finalized. Bergly stated the landscaping proposed is refreshing and provides variation for plantings and sign placement. The Planner briefly discussed the concerns listed in the Engineer's report relating to: - The discrepancy in the building square footage on two plans submitted. Maurer noted the square footage of the building will impact the trip generation and • parking space requirements for the development. - The developer should provide documentation for trip generation calculations. - Access/Circulation: The Engineer noted the driveway access points on Lexington Avenue do not provide adequate stacking space for traffic to freely move around the islands in the parking lot. He also addressed the access difficulties that will be experienced with the possible future closing of the median opening on Lexington Avenue at the existing north driveway to this site. Maurer also indicated the designated service area is not large enough to accommodate the maneuvering of semi-tractor/trailer units for loading/unloading operations. Bergly advised that the developer has received copies of both consultants reports. The applicant, Scott Roberts and the architect, Ward Sessing, were both present. Sessing explained he recommended submission of the preliminary plan to solicit input from the Commission and to have an opportunity to review staff reports. He stated there does not appear to be any insurmountable concerns that cannot be addressed by the developer prior to final submission. Commission expressed the following concerns: Probst - Discussed the fact the Planning Commission will be reviewing the traffic in this area in broader terms as it appears this will become a fairly significant • retail component on the north side of the City. He suggested the subcommittee be encouraged to initiate this study in an expedient manner. Probst noted he shares concerns regarding aesthetics and would prefer an upgrading of this site. He explained the Commission recommended approval of the site rezoning and therefore does not object to the proposed use. Probst reminded the developer of the ordinance restricting close proximity of fast-food restaurants. Roberts stated he is not anticipating a fast-food tenant.