7D, Planning Case 009-05, Site Plan Agreement for Northwestern College

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City Planner Beekman advised that sound amplification equipment could not be used after 9:00 p.m. She advised that already listed in the PUD is the requirement that no activities could be held on the campus green after 9:00 p.m., with the exception of an extension until 10:00 p.m. once per semester. Chair Larson clarified that the need for the variance is because the property is zoned R-1, which is commonly used for schools and churches. He thought that perhaps a zoning district should be created for this specific use to avoid the common violations that they encounter. City Planner Beekman advised that staffhad discussed that possibility. Mr. Schroder, CFO of Northwestern, advised that common activities for the green currently are frisbee, football, and occasional outdoor classes. He thought that outdoor classes would occur more often with the addition of seating. He stated that the outdoor activities for the students would remain a priority. He stated that the extensions in time past 9:00 p.m. would be orientation in the fall, and graduation in the spring. Commissioner Reiff questioned if Mr. Schroder was comfortable with the amendment to Condition 12. Mr. Schroder requested that the two times permitted for an extension listed in the PUD also be included in Condition 12. Commissioner Holewa thought that Northwestern was a good member of the community and the City and appreciated all the hard work that they do. Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Modesette, to recommend approval of Planning Case 09-005, Site Plan Review for Northwestern College, based on the 20 conditions in the April 8, 2009 Planning Case report. Commissioner Reiff moved, seconded by Commissioner Thompson, to amend the motion to recommend approval of Planning Case 09-005, Site Plan Review for Northwestern College, based on the 20 conditions in the April 8, 2009 Planning Case report with Condition 12 amended to read: "If sound amplifying equipment is used on the campus green it shall be directed away from neighboring residential properties. Activities on the campus green shall not extend past 9 pm, except once per semester when they can extend until 10 pm. Upon completion of the project the City may require additional sound mitigation measures to further reduce or eliminate noise impacts from the site if the City finds that noise generated from the site is causing a nuisance." Further discussion: