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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION - February 19, 2008 7 Discussion ensued regarding potential uses for the property and minimum price for the land. Mayor Harpstead stated he felt that a one-third requirement for open space is too high. He suggested requiring a percentage ofthe development, perhaps 20%, as affordable housing. City Planner Lehnhoff stated that with the recent changes in the real estate market, it may be prudent to first determine the desired land uses and then obtain an appraisal to better understand what the property is worth. Discussion ensued regarding demolition and cleanup costs. Planner I Beekman stated that in 2008 the estimated demolition and clean up on the property was $83,000. Councilmember Grant stated the City will also need to determine what type of access will be allowed for this parcel, adding that the amount and type the City is willing to entertain is going to drive the price, especially as it relates to a mixed use. City Planner Lehnhoff stated there was no clear consensus at the community meeting regarding access from Hamline A venue. Chair Larson stated one of his observations is that the City will have a very difficult time getting commercial through, with the traffic being the main objection. He stated if the parcel is primarily residential, this would appear to create more traffic. He suggested moving the access point further down Hamline Avenue, acquiring the right-of-way and having a frontage road, and then cutting the day care access to the south and installing a signal. Councilmember Holden expressed concern about a signal because it would create a bottleneck. Chair Larson recommended placement of a vegetative barrier on the CR 96 side of the property. Councilmember Grant stated if the parcel is developed as residential, the buffer should be on CR 96 and if the parcel is developed as commercial, he would be in favor of having the buffer on the south side. Councilmember Holmes stated one option would be for a coffee shop or bookstore type of development, including office condos, versus residential. COlmnissioner Modesette arrived at 6:45 p.m. Dave Ehresman, Arden Hills Townhome Association, appeared before the City Council and Planning Commission and reiterated the association's concerns with respect to access to Hamline A venue, potential runoff and drainage problems, and excessive parking. He stated he felt that the option of offices condos, and a coffee shop or bookstore would be satisfactory. Discussion ensued regarding market trends, the housing market, and access. Councilmember Grant suggested limiting access on Hamline Avenue to right in/right out only.