CCP 02-26-2001 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - FEBRUARY 7, 2001 5 . 5. Whether granting the variance will alter the essential character of the neighborhood. The parking ramp is well concealed on the campus by landscaping/wooded areas to the south. It will be located between parking areas, close to existing buildings on the campus and within the 1,1 Zoning District. Its construction will not negatively effect or alter the character ofthe neighborhood. Ms. Chaput noted staff recommends approval of Planning Case #01,02, Master Planned Unit Development Amendment and Site Plan Review for Guidant at 4100 Hamline Avenue (including height variance, 44 feet where 35 feet is permitted) for a parking ramp, with the following conditions: 1. The circumstances of the request for a height variance are unique to this property as a result of previous approvals; meet the intent of the Zoning Ordinance; is required for reasonable use of the property; and will not negatively impact the surrounding neighborhood; 2. The applicant shall contact Rice Creek Watershed District for the required approvals; 3. The applicant shall amend final plans to comply with the City Engineer's comments in this memorandum; 4. The applicant shall meet with the Building Inspector and resolve the 60 foot fire lane requirement between Building C and the proposed parking ramp; 5. Application for a building permit must be made with the Building Inspector. . Dave Reimer, Director of Services for Guidant, noted his company continues to achieve growth and feels the parking ramp would allow for his company to stay on top of the situation without causing concern for parking in the near future, Chair Erickson closed the public hearing at 7:59 p.m, Commissioner Galatowitsch asked ifthe 44 feet height was common within the Guidant campus. Ms. Chaput noted there was nothing within this campus at 44 feet but they were within the Guidant Master Plan, Chair Baker asked for the maximum square footage of the Guidant campus. Ms. Chaput stated the campus was over 671 ,493 square foot where the current footprint was at approximately 450,000 square feet. Chair Baker indicated he felt the size of this campus required a parking ramp and noted he was in favor of the ramp versus additional hard space. Commissioner Zimmerman questioned if the landscaping would be removed along County Road F. Mr. Reimer noted the border along the street would be maintained with additional landscaping planted surrounding the ramp to maintain the elevation. . Commissioner Zimmerman asked for a safety plan within the parking ramp. Mr. Reimer indicated the ramp would be lit, and supplied with surveillance cameras. He noted Guidant has their own security on site 24 hours a day/seven days a week to secure the campus and proposed parking ramp.