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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL — JANUARY 13, 2025 7 Planning Consultant Hofer stated there were wetlands on site, but he was not aware of any impacts. Councilmember Monson inquired how residents of this development would walk down to Royal Park. Planning Consultant Hofer reviewed the pedestrian facilities on the south side of the parking lot that leads to the house of worship. He commented there was no path out to Snelling Avenue. Public Works Director/City Engineer Swearingen explained a bridge would have to be installed over the creek on site in order to have a pedestrian connection to the park. Councilmember Holden stated because this was a PUD, the City could ask for some sort of pathway, but there is a ravine. She asked if any type of recreational playground would be included within this development. Planning Consultant Hofer reported a patio would be included on the west side of the building, but a play structure was not included. Mayor Grant indicated the applicant was requesting a variance of three feet to the building height. He questioned how tall the existing church was. Planning Consultant Hofer stated he did not know the current height of the church. Mayor Grant asked what the pitch of the roof was on the church. Planning Consultant Hofer reported the church had a 6/12 pitch. Mayor Grant inquired if the senior living development would have a 6/12 roof pitch. Planning Consultant Hofer stated the applicant has indicated the roof would have a 6/12 pitch. Councilmember Holden commented she anticipated the North Heights Church was over 45 feet tall. Mayor Grant stated his reason for asking was because the applicant was asking for a variance, but it was next to a building that was taller, it the additional building height may not appear to be too much. He indicated the PUD was asking for 13.9 units per acre where 12 units per acre was allowed. He noted the City could allow for additional density through a PUD. Planning Consultant Hofer reported this was the case. Mayor Grant questioned how many additional units would be created if the PUD were approved. Planning Consultant Hofer stated this would be 17 units. Councilmember Holden inquired if the veneer would be mortared. Planning Consultant Hofer explained he was uncertain.