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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MARCH 9, 2026 17 Councilmember Holden inquired if the applicant could plant several shrubs around the building. Mr. Gardner stated he would try to include more landscaping around the building. Mayor Grant requested further information regarding the most memorable model that had been created from this business. Mr. Gardner stated the most memorable project he had worked on was with an elderly gentleman that constructed a working steam locomotive model that was donated to a hometown museum. Councilmember Weber commented on the discussion that was held at the Planning Commission meeting. He noted the Planning Commission recommended trees be planted behind the building. He understood the site was short on parking spaces but stated Mr. Gardner had mentioned his business does not require a large number of parking spaces. He explained he was looking forward to having this building improved in the community. MOTION: Councilmember Monson moved and Councilmember Rousseau seconded a motion to adopt Resolution 2026-012 approving Planning Case 25-016 for a site plan review and variances from parking and design standards for a permitted retail sales use at 3628 Connelly Avenue, based on the findings of fact and the submitted plans, as amended by the conditions in the March 9, 2026, report to the City Council. The motion carried (5-0). B. Resolution 2026-013 Sign Standard Adjustment at 3535 Pine Tree Drive — Planning Case 26-001 Community Development Director Reilly stated the Applicant proposes installing two wall signs totaling 163 square feet and one graphic sign totaling 72 square feet on the eastern elevation of the building for a total of 235 square feet of signage on the building. The Applicant also proposes to install a 79 square foot freestanding monument on the property with a total of 33.5 square feet in signage. The Applicant is seeking flexibility through the Site Plan Review process for a sign standard adjustment for size of proposed wall and freestanding signs and for type with the proposed graphic sign. The proposed signage would not be permitted without an approved sign standard adjustment. Community Development Director Reilly reviewed the Site Data, Plan Evaluation and offered the following Findings of Fact: 1. The Applicant applied for Site Plan Review to install 163 square feet in wall signage and 72 square feet in graphic signage on the eastern elevation of the building and install a 79 square foot freestanding monument with 33.5 square feet of sign copy at the subject property, 3535 Pine Tree Drive. 2. On December 9, 2024,the City Council approved a Planned Unit Development Agreement for the Subject Property. 3. The Subject Property is located in the B-2 General Business District and is guided as Community Mixed Use on the 2040 Land Use Plan. 4. The Subject Property is located in Sign District 7, where the maximum wall signage permitted is 45 square feet. 5. In Sign District 7, the maximum freestanding sign copy area permitted is 25 square feet.