CCP 08-31-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - AUGUST 5. 1998 3 . Chair Erickson asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on the proposal in Planning Case #98-09. There were none. Hearing no comments, Chair Erickson closed the public hearing at 8:10 p.m. Chair Erickson invited comments from the Commission. Chair Erickson questioned the approval process for obtaining a new median cut on Highway 96. Mr. Ringwald stated that the City Engineer has met with Ramsey County and that they were not opposed to the median cut and their plans for Highway 96 have been modified to reflect this new point of access. However, if the City Hall construction were to precede the reconstruction of this segment of Highway 96, then the City would coordinate with Ramsey County for the provision of a temporary median cut. Chair Erickson questioned if a connection to the dirt driveway north of the proposed City Hall is necessary at this time. Mr. Ringwald stated that this connection is not necessary at this time. However, it might be necessary at some point in the future. Chair Erickson applauded the City's efforts to do something fairly bold and contemporary. He considered the City Hall plans as an attractive building plan which seems to respond to the needs of the City and to make the most ofa small building on a large site. e Chair Erickson stated his disappointment is the entrance as illustrated on the east elevation. He stated that the canopy defines it, but the entry way seems somewhat understated for a public building. Jean Sterner, Architectural Alliance, described the area and stated that there would be more landscaping and ornamental trees, as well as signage by the Council Chambers. Commissioner Rye said that currently there is a small staff and he questioned if additional staff could be accommodated particularly in view of the Re-Use plan for TCAAP. Also, he asked if there would be a way to add onto the building. Peter Vcsterholt said there are some future offices at the lower level and two upstairs. There are two private offices and space upstairs where there is room to expand the number of offices internally. Mr. Brian Fritsinger, City Administrator, stated that the plan accommodates five to six additional staff members. The current staffing (administrative) level of the City is eleven. This plan is viewed as adequately meeting the staffing needs of the City into the foreseeable future. In addition, it allows the ability to put officc space into the community room, if necessary. The building is not designed for exterior expansion capabilities; it is sized for the current and anticipated future staffing needs of the City. . -- -