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- ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - DECEMBER 9.1996 11 -. Councilmember Hicks inquired how Northwestern College defines "FTE" and asked if it is based on the number of courses being taken. Mr. Erickson explained that 12 credit hours equates to a - full-time student. Councilmember Hicks asked how the actual number of students compares to the FTE. Mr. Erickson explained it is a little higher because a high percentage (97.5%) are full- time students. Councilmember Hicks noted that Northwestern College is not proposing major changes in facilities. Mr. Erickson stated this is correct and future buildings are proposed as part of the - previously approved Master Plan. - Councilmember Malone stated he has no strong feeling about allowing a maximum of 1,600 FTE in ten years but, rather, that the Planning Commission expected the Council to consider their recommendation to approve 1,425 FTE in five years with a review in five years (but not a 1,600 FTE in ten years). - - Councilmember Hicks noted there was discussion at the Planning Commission about criteria. Councilmember Malone read a portion of the Planning Commission minutes indicating that Planning Commissioner Nelson was more inclined to approve up to 1,425 in five years and the motion maker indicated that was agreeable so the motion was amended. - -. Mr. Erickson explained why it is difficult to determine how enrollment will grow. He thanked the Council for its consideration and extended the College's appreciation for how the City has handled this request. Dave Erickson, representing Northwestern College, advised that Northwestern College is willing - to work with the Council as often as possible and will accept an FTE of 1,425 with a review in five years. - Councilmember Aplikowski stated she has no problem with what is happening and asked if it is Councilmember Malone's desire to change the wording. Councilmember Malone explained his concern is to follow the Planning Commission recommendation because he believes they made a valid point that to approve an FTE to 1,600 makes the review in five years somewhat irrelevant. Councilmember Malone stated he understands that logic so he leans towards a motion to approve the amendment of the student enrollment FTE to 1,425 in five years with a review in five years. Councilmember Aplikowski asked if Northwestern College will have to reapply in five years to increase the FTE. Councilmember Malone stated they will and noted the Planning Commission made a similar recommendation (five year review) on the Bethel College request. . Councilmember Hicks noted the recommendation does not speak to growth over time so, if approved, the FTE could increase to 1,425 tomorrow. Mr. Ringwald agreed the condition