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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—NOVEMBER 27, 2023 14 Councilmember Monson indicated she had comments regarding screening. She explained she had extensive questions regarding rear versus side yard. She stated she would be happy to table action on this item in order for the Council to hold a more broad discussion on this item. She understood people wanted solar screened, but noted this was not something that could be screened due to the sheer size and it would impact the efficacy of the system. Councilmember Holden stated it was her understanding the language regarding screening was taken from other cities ordinances. She asked if these cities were having concerns. Community Development Director Jagoe explained five cities required screening and language was borrowed from these cities. She indicated she did not speak to City staff to see if they were having issues. Councilmember Holden commented on how landscaping did not have to include plantings, but rather could include fencing. Councilmember Monson stated she understood this to be the case. She explained she reviewed the minutes from the Planning Commission and noted they were split on the screening issue. She indicated she still supported the Council further discussing how screening would be clearly defined and addressed and recommended this item be tabled. Mayor Grant asked if the Council could support Councilmember Monson working with staff to further address her concerns regarding screening, or did the Council want to work directly to address this matter. Councilmember Holden stated there were many issues to consider when it came to screening. Councilmember Monson supported the language requiring residents to do their best to mitigate visibility issues while not requiring residents to make the entire system visible from alleyways or right of way. In addition, she supported properties having systems in side yards. Councilmember Fabel stated if solar systems were viewed to be favorable for the City's energy structure, it would be good in this manner. He stated he trusted planning staff to impose the kind of restraints that would be favorable to residents. He explained there was no urgency with this Ordinance as the applicant was not looking to install his system until May of 2024. He supported Councilmember Monson working with staff to further address the language regarding screening. Mayor Grant asked if the screening language would prohibit neighbors from planting trees that would encumber a solar system on a neighboring property. Community Development Director Jagoe reported the way the language was drafted today there was no protection for the homeowner with a solar system. Councilmember Holden indicated the City had a lot of small lots where this would not work and she agreed screening was a very important issue.