CC 09-30-1996 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

I I ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL. SEPTEMBER 30. 1996 19 t' Tim Boehlke, Station 1 District Fire Chief, apologized for problems resulting from the construction of the parking lot and driveway. He reviewed that the Fire Department set out, I several years ago, to secure contractors who could handle this project but, unfortunately, it did not turn out that way. Mr. Boehlke stated he believes the alternate plan is a good compromise and requested the Council's approval. He stated the Fire Department is willing to do what it I needs to do to keep all parties on "good graces". Marilyn Matthews, 3432 Lake Johanna Boulevard, took exception to the comment made by Mr. I Jensen that the Fire Department received approval from every property within 350 feet because she was approached to sign the petition for the upper parking lot variance but declined to do so. I Kathryn Johnson, 3248 New Brighton Road, stated the parking lot most directly affects her property and she believes the work done is an improvement because it defines the parking area and number of cars it can hold. She stated she has always gotten along with the Fire Department I and requested the Council's support of the resolution. Mayor Probst stated when he was first informed ofthis situation, his first reaction was of anger I because nothing associated with this project was done correctly. He pointed out the engineering firm has an understanding ofthe Zoning Ordinance and should have known the project, as Ie proposed, did not fit. Mayor Probst commented on the long.standing relationship between the City and Fire Department and that he expected some discussion of the project with staff. He noted that the nearby church parking lot is empty except for four hours per week and this would I have been an ideal opportunity for shared parking. Mayor Probst stated he is prepared to be convinced that the alternate proposal is appropriate but would like to know whether the Planning Commission should review the new proposal. I Mr. Ringwald pointed out that from a timing aspect, the construction season is coming to an end and any delay would put reconstruction into next year. With regard to State Statute limitation for I consideration, Mayor Probst asked if a delay will forfeit the Council's ability to make consideration. Mr. Ringwald advised that consideration could be delayed to December and longer, if necessary, with the applicant's approval. Mayor Probst stated this proposal needs I careful thought and he would be interested in receiving the Planning Commission's recommendation on the proposed modifications. I Councilmember Aplikowski asked if the proposal from Ms. McGuire is not acceptable to the Fire Department. Mr. Jensen stated it is not acceptable and also may not be acceptable for the I Council to consider development of a "flag lot" via such a narrow easement. Councilmember Malone noted the Planning Commission indicated it was not possible to leave I the site as it currently is so the Fire Department then revised their proposal and made reasonable accommodation. He stated he would like to remove the encroachment to the neighboring property as soon as possible and believes the Fire Department responded to concerns expressed .. by the Planning Commission. I