11-26-07 Item 7A, PC 07-018 3527 Lexington Ave Redevelopment

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - AUGUST 1,2007 7 well and depreciation is not a significant economic factor, noting that Walgreen's wants to own. Commissioner Zimmerman asked if there has been communication with the Arden Pharmacy. Mr. Wellington responded that he had met with Ron, the owner of Arden Pharmacy, who was well aware of the evolution of the pharmaceutical business, and they would likely meet with Walgreen's regarding an economic transaction. Commissioner Holewa asked what Walgreen's was looking to own. Mr. Wellington pointed out 1.8 acres on the plat drawing. Commissioner Holewa expressed concern about long-term control if properties are divided. Mr. Trooien added that there would be legal documents and shared agreements to maintain the common spaces and a lien would be filed if a tenant didn't pay as required. Commissioner Zimmerman inquired about an umbrella landscape requirement, and Mr. Trooien responded by saying that the landscape plan would be for the overall site. Mr. Wellington stated that there will be a balance of green space, access, and stormwater control. Mr. Trooien agreed with staff suggestions regarding a fence rather than split rail on Lexington, an attractive and functional retaining wall on Lexington, it is necessary to obtain for a traffic review, and need for additional fayade treatments on the south and west elevations. He said he hadn't been aware of an electric sign moratorium but noted that Walgreen's would like to manually change a board. Commissioner Larson asked if the front access to Frattalone's would stay the same, and Mr. Trooien responded that there is no planned change to that access. Chair Sand referenced the row of parking along the front of various businesses in the strip mall and the angular areas by the Plaza pharmacy and said he would like a traffic consultant to review and offer options for the best parking in terms of safety, flow, and clear traffic views. Mr. Trooien responded that he would look into that. Commissioner Holewa said approval would be needed from the Fire Department to put parking in that area. He then asked that consideration be given, and addressed at the next meeting, regarding both the entrance and exit, as they have been troublesome for drivers trying to turn east on County Road E and north on Lexington, as well as drivers south who want to turn into the office buildings and going north on Lexington from the Community. Mr. Trooien responded that it would be part of the traffic study on the impact of that intersection. Ben Stevens, 4151 Rice Street, Shoreview resident and business owner for ten years and knows Larry and Ron well as businessmen. He said the present economy apparently makes it better for owners to sell the land and bring in national companies, rather than caring about current tenants or City residents' appreciation and preference for small local businesses. Mr. Stevens said he would fight the development and join any group organizing to do the same, stating emphatically there is no need for a Walgreen's or Aldi's.