10-04-23 PC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 4, 2023 9 Commissioner Weber believed this language was a good reason to table action on the zoning code amendment. However, he indicated concern with adding requirements to the drafted ordinance that would increase the cost of solar energy systems. He feared that adding requirements to the drafted ordinance language would limitaccess to solar. He supported the City fleshing this out before approving the zoning code amendment. He commented his concern was that delaying this matter would increase costs for those trying to install a solar energy system yet this fall. It was his opinion that adding additional screening requirements would put up barriers. Commissioner Collins indicated he had an issue with the City trying to dictate what the systems could look like for the neighbors. He stated he had an issue with the Commission establishing aesthetics requirements for solar energy systems. He noted solar arrays are always going to have a utilitarian look because they are a metal structure with black panels. He questioned how a delay would benefit the City. Chair Vijums offered that the Arden Hills zoning code currently references requirements for screening when applicable. Commissioner Bjorklund feared that screening requirements would create huge barriers for residents seeking solar energy systems. He supported the Commission moving forward with the zoning code amendment. Commissioner Weber recommended the Commission address the TRC zoning districts that should be added to the code language prior to voting on this matter. Commissioner Wicklund suggested the four residential zoning districts within the TRC be included in this zoning code amendment. He stated another option for the Commission to consider is neighbor consent for solar energy systems, as was included in the zoning code amendment for the keeping of chickens. Commissioner Weber stated he could support moving this item forward. Chair Vijums moved and Commissioner Wicklund seconded a motion to table action on Planning Case 23-018 a Zoning Code Amendment to Chapter 13 of the Arden Hills City Code to allow Solar Energy System as an Accessory Use in the R-1, R-2, and R-3 Residential Districts to a future Planning Commission meeting requesting staff address visibility, aesthetics, screening and the TRC zoning districts, as well as addressing the comments from All Energy Solar. The motion failed 3-3 (Commissioners Bjorklund, Collins and Weber opposed). Commissioner Collins moved and Commissioner Bjorklund seconded a motion to recommend approval of Planning Case 23-018 for a Zoning Code Amendment to Chapter 13 of the Arden Hills City Code to allow Solar Energy System as an Accessory Use in the R-1, R-2, and R-3 Residential Districts, based on the findings of fact and the submitted materials with amendments to add the word “not” to Section A 4(b). Commissioner Weber supported the Commission adding language to the motion for approval directing staff to add the residential zoning districts within the TRC.