CCP 07-31-2000 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - JULY 5, 2000 6 Ms. Chaput stated that Staffreconunends approval of Planning Case #00-29, Site Plan Review of the Minnesota Department of Transportation drivers testing facility, located at 5400 County .. Road I, with 2 conditions .. Jim O'Brien, a representative of Williams O'Brien Architects, stated his firm represents MNDOT in this case. He added he would be glad to answer the Commission's questions. Acting Chair Rye closed the public hearing at 8:04 p.m. Commissioner Baker stated there may be some issues with regard to access to County Road I. He asked whether the site has been analyzed for future access, and how the proposed changes fit into those plans. Ms. Chaput stated the applicant does not intend to increase traffic flow into the facility with this expansion. She added that MNDOT is considering relocation of the facility's entrance to the east near Schutta Road. She noted this would move the entrance farther away from the 35W intersection to the west and the WisP ark entrance to the north. Mr. O'Brien stated he understands that MNDOT owns the property to the north and east of the facility, and a ring road had been discussed which would connect to County Road I east of the current entrance. Conunissioner Nelson asked whether the applicant plans to remove the temporary trailers located on the site. Mr. O'Brien stated the trailers will be used as offices during construction and are planned for removal upon completion. Commissioner Duchenes asked which parts of the property in question, and adjoining properties, are in R-I and 1-2 zoning districts. Acting Chair Rye asked for clarification with regard to whether the zoning is part of the existing or proposed Comprehensive Plan. Ms. Chaput stated the zoning districts in question are shown as different districts in the Comprehensive Plan. e Conunissioner Galatowitsch stated the applicant's request does not conform to the future Comp Plan, with regard to zoning of adjacent property. Ms. Chaput confirmed this, adding it is unclear when the property in question will be turned over to the City for development. Commissioner Duchenes expressed concern that the facility would abut future residential areas. She noted the facility is located some distance from property boundaries. Conunissioner Galatowitsch asked whether any photos of the facility were available for the Conunission's review. Mr. O'Brien stated he did not have any photos, adding the Commission were presented with some elevation depictions. He added the existing building is sandy brown brick with some wood panels above the windows which have deteriorated over time. He noted the character of the building will not change. Conunissioner Baker asked for an estimated project cost. Mr. O'Brien stated the estimate is $990,000, but the project has not gone to bid. Acting Chair Rye stated that MNDOT is not required to meet City Code standards, but chooses .. to go through the process.. Ms. Chaput stated that MNDOT wishes to maintain a good .. relationship between the two entities.