11-09-09-TCAAP WS - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL TCAAP WORK SESSION-NOVEMBER 9, 2009 6 B. Draft TCAAP Reuse Statement (continued) Councilmember Holmes explained she did not have a problem with big box development as it would draw people into the site. Councilmember McClung agreed this would be a draw and refined his statement to state he did not want to see row after row after row of big box. He indicated he maybe in favor of one or two big box stores. Councilmember Grant explained the problem with big box was they were not all the same. Community Development Director Lehnhoff indicated even if the Council did not all agree on big box at this time, there was some agreement in regulating the number of big boxes, which would come down to the design of the commercial area. City Administrator Moorse noted the scale of the commercial area could be kept to a local scale with one Target, and smaller, neighborhood sized shops that are walk-able. Councilmember Grant indicated it would be great to create awalk-able area and that this would hinge on the design. Councilmember Holden expressed concern about a large number of neighborhood shops as this has not been successful in St. Anthony. She did not want to see the space go unused and remain empty. Councilmember Holmes indicated the City could recruit certain retail establishments that would benefit the residents in the area. She suggested the retail allowed in this area should be high-end retail that would be sustainable. Mayor Harpstead stated this was a good idea and added that the City could be proactive in seeking cohesive retail developments. He suggested the language read, the City will seek to establish cohesive retail groupings to enhance long term sustainability. Councilmember Holden indicated that if there was going to be a bridge to the Rice Creek West, that it follows the County guidelines.