08-07-24 PC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION — July 10, 2024 16 Commissioner Mitchell questioned what the maximum capacity would be for the event space. Senior Planner Fransen stated the maximum capacity would be 464 people. Commissioner Mitchell inquired if the main entrance to the event space would through the cafe. Community Development Director Jagoe suggested the applicant speak further to the occupancy of the building and how people would flow through the site. She indicated 464 total people could be on the site, but noted this included event center attendees, caterers and those within the restaurant. Senior Planner Fransen reported the Applicant stated the occupancy has been discussed with the fire marshal. Ms. Kukwa explained the occupancy was 464, as determined by the fire marshal. She indicated visitors to the event center could enter through the front door or the side entrance. She noted the building had four exits. Commissioner Bjorklund stated he understood PUD's allowed for some level of flexibility. He indicated this was a unique property that was quite isolated. He explained he could support the flexibility for this property because the next door neighbors would not be impacted by the proposed activity. Chair Weber discussed the zoning code amendment noting the applicant was requesting an event center to be allowed within the B-2 zoning district as well as allowing for one parking space per three seats within the event center. Commissioner Erler stated he was confused about the relationship between the restaurant and the event center. Senior Planner Fransen discussed how the restaurant use would be able to attain a liquor license that could be utilized for the service of alcohol on the entire premises. Chair Weber questioned if the Commission supported the proposed parking. Commissioner Bjorklund supported the parking being changed to one parking space per four seats. He indicated this was the regulation followed by some neighboring communities. Commissioner Stromberg explained she supported the one to four ratio as well, noting many of the visitors may use Lyft or Uber for transportation. Commissioner Mitchell suggested the changes regarding parking be addressed or revisited through the code review study. She recommended the ratio remain three to one for consistency purposes at this time. After further discussion, the consensus of the Commission was to allow for one parking space per four seats within the event center.