CC 08-31-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - AUGUST 31. i998 8 corner of Sunfish Lake on the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant (TCAAP) on a 2.4 acre parcel zoned R-l. He presented a site plan of the property and reviewed the setbacks and points of access. Mr. Ringwald explained the site plan contains visitor parking, employee parking, and the walkout building tucked into the hillside toward the lake. He presented exterior building elevations and advised that the issue of reducing the amount ofrequired site grading has been discussed and modified. Also, the roof drains will go toward Highway 96 but the drainage from the remainder of the site will be directed to the northeast corner to recharge the wetland. Mr. Ringwald stated the grading has been reduced substantially as well as the amount of revegetation required on the site. He then reviewed the lighting plan which includes minimal securing lighting via low shielded lighting structures which are directed downward. Mr. Ringwald advised that the architect is in attendance to present more detailed colored plans. He noted the large roof structure angled at the entryway which is being researched to assure there are adequate roof drains so it is not a problem with drainage or icing of the walkway. Mr. Ringwald advised that the Planning Commission recommends approval with ten conditions. Mayor Probst asked ifthere is an interest in an entrance that is more prominent than first proposed. Peter VesterhoIt, Architectural Alliance, explained the drawings viewed by the Planning Commission were frontal views so it was difficult to determine how the entryway would work. He noted the three-dimensional model of the City Hall and stated he feels comfortable that the building is designed as a low-key expression. He noted the focal of the Council Chamber's tower and entranceway which will draw pedestrians to that location. Mayor Probst asked if the canopy could be widened to make it more prominent. Mr. Vesterholt stated that could certainly be done. Ms. Jean Sterner, Architectural Alliance, stated as you approach the building from the visitor's parking area, there is a more important perspective from that angle. She presented a sketch of the building elevation from that view which creates an entry place together with the canopy and walkway. Councilmember Malone asked what type of building materials will be used. Mr. Vesterholt stated the canopy and columns will be of steel and the screening wall will be of stone. Councilmember Malone asked if the canopy will be tilted. Mr. Vesterholt stated it will not. Mayor Probst raised the issue of protection from wind and weather and asked if the canopy should be lowered or widened somewhat. Mr. Vesterholt stated this could be done. He addressed the issue of the roof drainage and explained water and snow will not sheet off the roofline and will be directed by a trough through a roof drain system. Councilmember Malone noted that most of the roof area drains toward the side, not the canopy. Mr. Vesterholt explained the water will be collected via a hidden internal gutter which cannot be viewed from the ground.