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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION — March 8, 2023 10 <br />a solar farm and not for any other use. He discussed his visions for TCAAP noting this project <br />could be a potential model for microgrid and grid energy design. He commented further on how <br />the solar array would benefit the entire TCAAP development. He reported the State of Minnesota <br />passed zero net energy requirements, noting no natural gas can be used by 2030. <br />Chair Vijums asked how much of the City could be powered from a 60 acre solar array. <br />Mr. Salmela reported this would power everything to the substations in the area. He anticipated <br />substations near Lino Lakes and below I-694 would be fed. He stated if the grid were to go down, <br />a 60 acre solar array would provide enough energy for all of TCAAP. <br />Commissioner Bjorklund questioned if the lines for the solar array would be above ground or <br />underground. <br />Mr. Salmela indicated the lines could be either above or below ground. <br />Rich Skoman, 4380 Arden View Court, reviewed a map of the TCAAP development that included <br />the primer tracer property and discussed the location of the wildlife corridor. He stated it was his <br />hope the AHATS property could be used for cross country skiing in the winter months. <br />There being no additional comment Chair Vijums closed the public hearing at 8:58 p.m. <br />Commissioner Bjorklund stated he supported the proposed zoning code amendment and he <br />appreciated the fact that all future solar energy system requests would be a conditional use. <br />Chair Vijums moved and Commissioner Mitchell seconded a motion to recommend approval <br />of Planning Case 23-004 for a Zoning Code Amendment to Chapter 13 of the Arden Hills <br />City Code to Allow Solar Energy System as a Conditional Use in the Conservation District, <br />based on the findings of fact and the submitted plans. The motion carried unanimously (5- <br />UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS <br />None. <br />REPORTS <br />A. Report from the City Council <br />Councilmember Rousseau provided the Commission with an update from the City Council. She <br />stated Planning Case 22-023 was approved by the City Council on February 7. She explained the <br />Council has had a request that the sign code be reviewed. She anticipated staff would begin <br />working on this issue and would be reporting back to the Planning Commission at a future meeting. <br />B. Planning Commission Comments and Requests <br />Commissioner Weber welcomed Councilmember Rousseau to the City Council. <br />