04-08-2026 PC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – February 4, 2026 7 Commissioner Burlingame stated if this request were approved, the Commission could consider language noting because this was a public emergency services facility, the use of graphic signage would not set a precedent. Senior Planner Fransen indicated this language could be included as a finding that notes the proposed use was a public use and identifying signage alerts the public this was a public facility. Commissioner Erler requested the applicant speak further to the phoenix symbol and why this was chosen by the Lake Johanna Fire Department. Fire Chief Boehlke explained the phoenix was adopted by the Lake Johanna Fire Department as its lead symbol years ago. He indicated it is used in a lot of different applications, including uniforms and is adopted as a symbol of public fire service. He reported the symbol is unique to this fire department as is the fire station number, which is Station 110. He stated the Station 110 designation is assigned by Ramsey County. He discussed how the fire department markets itself on a daily basis and was constantly working to show the value of the department to the community. He understood the fire department was asking for more signage than was allowed, but he questioned how old the City’s sign code standards were. He stated he started out with smaller signs on the building, but it was apparent to him that the scale was off. He encouraged the Commission to consider how the size and scale of buildings was different from when the sign code was first written and therefore the size and scale of signage would have to be adjusted. Assistant Chief Matt Sather provided further information on which signs would be illuminated on the building. Commissioner Burlingame requested the Fire Chief speak to how this facility would serve as a community gathering space after severe storms or emergency situations. Fire Chief Boehlke stated this building would not serve as a storm shelter, but noted tours, community events and open houses would be held at the new fire station. He anticipated the new fire station could serve as an EOC (emergency operations center) should an event occur in the community. Commissioner Bjorklund asked if any social activities for the fire fighters would be held at the fire station. Fire Chief Boehlke explained social activities would not be held at the fire station, but numerous training events would be hosted onsite. Commissioner Bjorklund commented he still believed the proposed signage was leaning towards marketing. He was of the opinion the graphic is too large and should not move forward. Commissioner Lindau indicated he supported the size and scale of the signs and graphics for the fire station. He discussed how the proposed signage tied the Lake Johanna Fire Department brand all together. Chair Collins asked if there were any Commissioners that believed the graphic portion of the sign request should not move forward.