11-08-23 PC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – November 8, 2023 5 but some could be with proper screening. He requested there be a place for ground mounted solar in some Arden Hills residential districts. He commented on the privacy screen he has established in his rear yard and noted the majority of his neighbors were supportive of his solar panels. He discussed that some people see solar panels and think that the person who installed them cares about clean energy and is concerned about the future of the environment. Lynn Diaz, 1143 Ingerson Road, commented she did not have a position regarding ground mounted solar. However, she recommended the screening language be further reviewed. She feared that if the screening were to affect the efficiency of the panels, it will always be eliminated, which will adversely impact neighboring properties. There being no additional comment Chair Vijums closed the public hearing at 7:13 p.m. Chair Vijums questioned if there was anything that would determine screening was not needed, within the proposed code amendment. Senior Planner Fransen reviewed the proposed screening language within the code amendment, that systems shall be designed to minimize visibility and are subject to the screening provisions, and explained the Planning Commission could provide further comment if the language was unclear. Chair Vijums stated he wanted to be assured that screening was required, and if it costs more to put it up, it was still required. Senior Planner Fransen confirmed that the drafted language states that ground mounted solar shall be screened to the extent possible without reducing efficiency. She reported the intent of the drafted language is to require arrays that would be visible to street frontage right of way and adjacent residential properties to be screened with the screening being reviewed by staff. Chair Vijums shared that he liked the language as written as it establishes screening as a requirement. His concern is for potential loopholes with the screening requirement and the associated cost. Commissioner Weber indicated the cost of the solar system was separate from the cost of the screening. He reported that not affecting the cost or efficacy does not apply to screening, but rather to the solar system, which means the system has to be screened, regardless. His understanding is that the cost of screening would not be a viable loophole to get out of required screening. Chair Vijums reported this screening would include walls, fences or landscaping. Commissioner Bjorklund commented on how every property owner has a right to the sun. He did not want the City to be reducing this right. Chair Vijums moved and Commissioner Weber 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 and NR-1, NR-2, and NR-3 Residential Districts, based on the findings