CCP 01-29-2001 - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - JANUARY 3, 2001 9 PLANNING CASE #00-46 - CHESAPEAKE COMPANIES - PRELIMINARY PLAT/ CONCEPT PUD - NORTHEAST OUADRANT OF 1-35W AND 1-694 - PUBLIC HEARING Chair Baker opened the public hearing at 9:20 p.m. Ms. Chaput explained that the applicant is requesting preliminary plat and concept PUD review for the northeast quadrant ofI-35W and 1-694 for the consolidation of the four properties located in the Northeast quadrant of 1-694 and 1-35W into one property, replatted to accommodate the existing billboards (as Outlots) and a concept plarmed unit development on the remaining parcel. Ms Chaput indicated Chesapeake Companies has been working on assembling the parcels at the comer ofI-35W and 1-694 for over a year (Exhibit B). She noted they are proposing to combine and replat parcels currently owned by Morris Communications, ATS Steel and Burlington Northern Rail. Ms. Chaput stated several members of the Chesapeake Companies were in attendance with a presentation for the Commission. Peter Carlson, principal of Chesapeake Company, introduced the nUlllerous members of his development team. Mr. Carlson reviewed the project goals for this site and the key issues for the Preliminary Plat and Concept PUD. He indicated the purchase agreement took 14 months to establish with Morris Companies. Mr. Carlson indicated he feels this site holds a great deal of potential. He noted the developer's key issues at this time were project density, City flexibility, timing, availability of outdoor advertisement and the use of eminent domain from the City. Mr. Carlson indicated the tenants are unknown at this time which means a great deal of flexibility on the density issue would be needed from the City. Mr. Carlson indicated there are a great deal of variables involved in this project, which calls for the City to work in conjunction with Chesapeake Companies. He reviewed the barriers that must be overcome at this time. Mr. Carlson indicated he is working with ATS Steel in negotiations to purchase their company and land. John Schardalo, president ofSchardalo Architects, reviewed the background of the concept plan. He gave an overview of the plat with the Commission and the location of the stormwater ponds and wetlands. Mr. Schardalo noted the PUD site was currently 26.5 acres. He noted the site would be developed in several phases but indicated the preliminary plan would need to be reviewed and approved by the City before the first phase would begin. Mr. Schardalo indicated the PUD site could be used for a large office building with parking. He reviewed the potential layout of this design with the Commission. Mr. Schardalo explained a second option for this site would be a three building office configuration with parking. He then reviewed the second option with the Commission. Mr. Schardalo stated the building images would be extremely professional. He noted his firm has taken part in several PUD's with similar layouts. Mr. Schardalo indicated the developer is interested in a successful culmination of the City's gateway vision, to create a high quality complex and be able to create high tax value.