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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – February 5, 2025 5 Mr. Zimmerman discussed how updated standards could better accommodate residential properties that are currently nonconforming. Further discussion ensued regarding nonconforming development, variance requests, and properties that were platted before the current zoning standards. Commissioner Bjorklund stated he liked the idea of reducing lot size, noting he believed 14,000 square feet was excessive. Ms. Ellner discussed an introduction to accessory dwelling units, the possible code language for ADUs, and the type of standards that could be included in the code. She noted the Council still had to make a determination on if ADUs would be included in the code updates. She reviewed the pros and cons for ADUs and common regulation topics. She asked if the Commission had any comments or questions. Commissioner Burlingame asked about short term rentals and Airbnbs. Ms. Ellner shared that communities can approach this by including standards for ADUs or by prohibiting short term rentals. Commissioner Burlingame recommended parking standards be addressed for ADUs. Commissioner Erler stated he was generally open to looking into ADUs in Arden Hills. He believed it would be in the City’s be interest to have standards in place, because ADUs were already occurring. Commissioner Lindau suggested the photos within the code not show rear loading alley entrances because this was not the norm in Arden Hills. He recommended pictures mirror the existing housing types present in Arden Hills today. Commissioner Stromberg indicated the thought of ADUs in the community gives her pause, especially when it comes to Airbnbs. However, she understood units may already be in place and it would be good for the City to have standards in place. Commissioner Bjorklund commented he liked the concept of ADUs. He explained there were a number of ADUs in his neighborhood and he wanted them to be following proper standards. Chair Collins explained the purpose of reviewing the zoning and subdivision code was to provide more access to different housing types. He stated ADUs would provide a new housing type in the City. He questioned where ADUs would be allowed, given the proposed standards. Commissioner Erler stated the units he was aware of were basement conversions and nobody knows they are in place. He indicated there was concern if these units were constructed properly and noted it would benefit the City to have ADU standards in place. Mr. Zimmerman thanked the Commission for their feedback and noted he would continue to draft updates to the zoning and subdivision ordinances. He shared a project update would be provided to the City Council. He anticipated he would be coming back to the Planning Commission in April for further discussion.