07-02-08-PC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

10. Garages and accessory structures are permitted within the R-2 Zone. 11. The existing dwelling and the proposed garage are outside of the 100 -year flood plain, wetlands, and easements. 12. This project requires a Tree Preservation Plan and a maximum tree mitigation amount of 49 feet of new trees, the applicant is proposing to plant 18 feet. 13. The proposed garage would be 988 square feet. 14. The exterior finish will match the principal structure when the existing home is resided in the near future. 15. The lot is unusual in that there is room to construct two 728 square foot accessory structures on the property without a variance. 16. The proposed garage would create less impact and be more attractive than what is presently on the property. Staff Analysis The findings of fact for this Site Plan Review support a recommendation for approval. If the Planning Commission wishes to make a recommendation for denial, the findings of fact must be amended to reflect the reasons for the denial. The tree preservation issue is another matter. The Planning Commission must first determine if three of the trees to be removed would be considered nuisance trees if the utility company determines that they are a safety hazard or could impede the electrical service to the property. Regardless of this outcome, the applicant is proposing to plant thee new six foot trees. Secondly, the Planning Commission must determine if three trees totaling 18 feet in height is an appropriate mitigation amount in the event that the utility company does not determine that the trees are a hazard. Code requires 49 feet, which would amount to eight, six foot high trees. A reduction in the mitigation amount may be granted at the discretion of the Planning Commission and City Council for the purpose of the greater public good, including for the placement of utility services. Staff has provided a condition of approval that addresses the trees; the Planning Commission may amend this at their discretion. This application marks the first test of the newly adopted Tree Preservation Ordinance. While enacting this ordinance was an extremely important step in protecting the natural beauty and property values of our community, it is likely that certain aspects of the ordinance may need to be adjusted over time. If the Planning Commission feels that the regulations are unreasonable and a reduction in the required mitigation amount is granted, Staff strongly recommends that the ordinance itself be reviewed to determine if an overall change is necessary for residential parcels. If the Planning Commission recommends approval of this site plan review, Staff recommends the following seven conditions: City of Arden Hills Planning Commission Meeting for July 2, 2008 llMetro-inet.uslardenhillslPlanninglPlanning Cases 12008 M-018 Beard Site Plan Review (Pending) 1070208 - PCReport -Beard Site Plan Review.doc Page 6 of 8