CCP 10-25-1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

e e e ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - OCTOBER 6, 1999 DRAFT 3 has sound barriers and a unobtrusive appearance. The generator is currently beige with a black bottom and this would be painted to match the building. If the generator were placed without screening it would reside completely within the sidewalk area and, with the color changed, would completely blend in with the building. With the size of the generator, Mr. Beck stated that that screening must be at least 25 feet wide in order to allow circulation around the unit. The screening may cause a minor problem with snow buildup during snow storms which will result in extra maintenance and operational issues. Mr, Rick Apple, Alliance, the generator vendor, stated that the generator is already screened in a protective box. If other screening is required, there will need to be at least three feet of space available around the generator for maintenance and operation access, He agreed that there will be maintenance issues with snow building up within the enclosure. He felt that if the generator were painted to match the building it would create a less massive structure. The generator has no mufflers on top and all equipment is concealed in a neat, aesthetically pleasing package. Commissioner Rye asked if the Planning Commission had strong feelings whether or not the generator should be screened. Commissioner Sand stated that the Zoning Ordinance requires screening. He stated that the nature of the screening was the issue in question. Commissioner Baker noted that ifthe request were approved without screening, this would create future concerns as to what constitutes a proper enclosure and he was not sure the Planning Commission was qualified to judge this. Chair Erickson noted that the request did not include a proposal for a variance from screening. He stated that the staff report included two screening options and he felt it logical to approve what was being requested. Mr. Beck stated that ifthe cedar wood fencing was allowed, the fence would be painted to match the building. Commissioner Sand asked what the cost difference would be between the block wall and cedar wood fence. Mr. Apple stated that the block wall would cost approximately $14,000 more than the cedar wood fence. Commissioner Rye moved, seconded by Commissioner Duchenes to recommend approval of Planning Case 99-12, Site Plan, to allow for the construction ofa 5 foot 6 inch by 13 foot 6 inch generator and 13 by 25 foot cedar wood fence enclosure along with a 37 foot variance, conditioned on: L The cedar wood fence be painted to match the color of the existing building. 2. The generator only be run a maximum of five hours per month for servicing or during the duration of power failures. 3. The temporary generator on a trailer be removed, Commissioner Sand confirmed that, according to the drawings submitted with the proposal, the height ofthe fence would be adequate to vertically screen the generator. Ms. Randall stated that this was correct.