05-08-24 PC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – May 8, 2024 3 Commissioner Bjorklund commented on how he drove by this property and noticed a neighbor has an accessory dwelling unit detached from the home on a corner lot. He stated he was uncertain if this was allowed by the City. He indicated the applicant was not proposing to do something very different from what was already existing in their neighborhood less than a block away. Senior Planner Fransen explained the City has had conversations with residents regarding accessory dwelling units and noted they are currently not a permitted use in residential zoning distrcits. She reported staff had received an inquiry into process to modify the zoning code to make ADU’s a permitted use. She indicated staff could follow up with neighboring property owner to confirm how they were using this accessory structure. Commissioner Mitchell stated a three car garage was not an unusual thing in Arden Hills. She commented further on how the setbacks for corner lots were quite limiting, noting passersby would only see three garage doors from the street if a three car garage were to be built in accordance with the setback requirements. She explained the 40 foot setback requirement for corner lots was concerning to her. She stated she could support the proposed garage addition. Commissioner Blilie indicated she supported the request as well. Chair Weber reported he also supported the variance request. Commissioner Wicklund asked if there were any Commissioners that had concerns regarding requiring screening from Norma Avenue. Chair Weber stated he was not concerned about screening a well-kept house. He indicated he supported the Planning Commission further discussing the setback requirements for corner lots. Commissioner Erler moved and Commissioner Mitchell seconded a motion to recommend approval of Planning Case 24-008 for a Variance at 1511 Dawn Circle based on the findings of fact and the submitted plans, as amended by the conditions in the May 8, 2024, report to the Planning Commission. The motion carried unanimously (7-0). UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS None. REPORTS A. Report from the City Council Chair Weber reported for Council Liaison Rousseau that the Commission and Committees picnic was tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, July 16 at Cummings Park. B. Planning Commission Comments and Requests Commissioner Bjorklund suggested the Commission consider zoning actions to assist with increasing affordable housing in Arden Hills and reviewed several suggestions with the Commission.