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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - APRIL 3,2002 7 Bill Frank, 1228 Wynridge Drive, stated he did not have an opposition to what was being proposed if it stood on its own. He stated there was reasonable planning effort involved and this was reasonable. He stated, however, if this were a part of the Master Plan, he would have objections to it. He stated vacating Fernwood was a problem and this was an unacceptable approach to the development of the whole site. He stated he understood what they were doing and he had no objection to what they were proposing tonight, but if this was a "domino" for many other approvals that are going to follow, then it should stop here, but if this approval can stand alone, then it should be approved. Chair Sand invited applicant to make comment. John Larson and Judd Brasch, RSP Architects, presented Guidant's proposal. They indicated many of the issues the residents had brought up at the previous meeting were currently being wor~ed on. Commissioner Lemberg asked what was Guidant's timeframe for the future administrative building. Mr. Larson replied within a four to six year time period, depending on approval of a PUD. . Commissioner Zimmerman stated he understood the topography of the land and this was what caused the building to be 52 feet tall. However, he stated the reason for the variance request was for the stairwell to access the skyway. Mr. Larson and Mr. Brasch . replied that was correct. Commissioner Zimmerman stated if they did not need the stairwell, they would not need the variance. Mr. Larson replied the stairwell would be used for other purposes as well. Mr. Parrish stated the skyway was a part of this request and this was represented on the site plan. The condition was that Fernwood be vacated and replatted or some other arrangement be made with the City so they could pass over the City's right-of-way. He stated this skyway would be built in conjunction with the building. Mr. Larson stated the building and skyway was a way of linking the buildings and the ease of moving employees over Fernwood Avenue in a controlled environment, which was very important for Guidant's business operation. Commissioner Ricke asked if other designs had been looked at, such as a tunnel instead of a skyway. Mr. Brasch replied they had looked at this, but it made sense to have a skyway because their other buildings were connected by skyway, and this would make the flow easier through their complex. Commissioner Ricke asked if the training center made sense without the skyway. Mr. Brashe replied they could still do the training center, but the skyway would aid Guidant in their plans. Comrnissioner Zimmerman inquired about the parking facility and asked if the parking would be adequate.. He stated from his calculations, they would be ten spaces short. Mr. Parrish replied the City had guidelines that specified a certain number of parking stalls, however, from a design, aesthetic function, and environmental perspective, you did not .