HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-08-14 PC Minutes
Approved: February 5, 2014
CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA
PLANNING COMMISSION
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2014
6:30 P.M. - ARDEN HILLS CITY HALL
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Chair Clayton Larson called to order the regular Planning
Commission meeting at 6:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present were: Chair Clayton Larson, Commissioners Brent Bartel, Angela Hames, Andrew
Holewa, Sam Scott and Roberta Thompson.
Absent: Commissioner Clayton Zimmerman.
Also present were: City Planner Ryan Streff; Associate Planner Matthew Bachler;
Councilmember Fran Holmes; and Community Development Director Jill Hutmacher.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA JANUARY 8, 2014
Council Liaison Holmes
requested she be allowed to give a report this evening.
Chair Larson
stated the agenda will stand as amended adding Council Liaison Report as Item
5B.
APPOINTMENTS
A. Planning Commission Oaths of Office
City Planner Streff
explained three regular members and one alternate member of the Planning
Commission have terms that expired at the end of 2013. Commissioner Thompson,
Commissioner Hames and Commissioner Scott have each indicated their request to serve an
additional 3 year term on the Planning Commission. The alternate member position will remain
vacant until a new member is selected by the City Council. He reported the City Council will
consider these appointments at their January 13, 2014, regular meeting.
Chair Larson
administered the Oath of Office to Commissioner Thompson, Commissioner
Hames and Commissioner Scott.
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 20142
B. Planning Commission Chair & Vice Chair Selection
City Planner Streff
requested the Commission members select a Chair and Vice Chair for 2014.
Commissioner Thompson moved, seconded by Commissioner Holewa, to elect Clayton
Larson as the Planning Commission Chair for 2014. The motion carried unanimously (6-
0).
Commissioner Hames moved, seconded by Commissioner Holewa, to elect Roberta
Thompson as the Planning Commission Vice Chair for 2014. The motion carried
unanimously (6-0).
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
December 4, 2013 Planning Commission Regular Meeting
Commissioner Holewa
expressed concern that the October 9, 2013 Planning Commission
minutes did not accurately reflect his objection to the variance request at 1226 Ingerson Road in
Planning Case 13-016.
Community Development Director Hutmacher
stated the variance on Ingerson Road was
approved by the Commission on a 5-1 vote (Holewa opposed) and his concern was that the lot on
this property was not unique to Arden Hills. She stated that this information was communicated
to the Council prior to their approval of the variance. She clarified that this item was discussed
within the October Planning Commission minutes and not in the December minutes.
Commissioner Holewa
requested that the minutes include additional detail with regard to the
.
Chair Larson
stated this may have not been addressed in December due to Commissioner
Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Thompson, to approve the
December 4, 2013, Planning Commission Regular Meeting minutes as presented. The
motion carried unanimously (6-0).
PLANNING CASES
A.Planning Case 13-023; Sign Standard Adjustment; 1290 County Road F West Not
A Public Hearing
City Planner Streff
stated the applicant has requested a Site Plan Review for a Sign Standard
Adjustment that would allow for a deviation from the Sign Code at 1290 County Road F West to
increase the amount of temporary wall signage and the amount of time it is permitted to be
displayed.
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 20143
City Planner Streff
reported the property at 1290 County Road F West is owned by Arden
Village, LLC. The property is zoned R-4 Multiple Dwelling District and is located north of I-
694/Highway 10, south of County Road F West, east of Hamline Avenue and west of Lexington
Avenue. The applicant is proposing to install two (2) temporary wall signs, one facing I-694 and
the other facing County Road F West.
City Planner Streff
explained that on March 3, 2010, the City Council approved an application
for a four-story, 55-unit, workforce housing development at 1290 County Road F West. The City
Council approved Planning Case #09-021 for a Conditional Use Permit Amendment, Rezoning,
Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Preliminary and Final Plat, and Master and Final Planned Unit
Development.
City Planner Streff
indicated that Arden Village has expressed concerns about the visibility of
their building for leasing purposes. The applicant has stated that the amount of temporary wall
signage allowed by the Code for Sign District 3 is not proportionately adequate for a structure of
its size or location. By increasing the amount of temporary wall signage the applicant is hoping to
improve their ability to fully lease the building by enhancing their visibility to the traveling
public.
In order to address this concern, Arden Village is proposing to increase the amount of temporary
wall signage. Two (2) temporary wall signs are being proposed for the building. The applicant is
proposing a sign that measures six (6) feet by forty (40) feet, an area of 240 square feet, on the
south elevation adjacent to I-694 and Highway 10. The second sign is being proposed on the
north elevation along County Road F West, at a size of six (6) feet by thirty-three (33) feet, an
area of 198 square feet. The combined area of the two (2) signs would be 438 square feet. A
professional sign company would design and install the signs on the property. Arden Village
would be responsible for the maintenance of these signs to ensure a like new condition at all
times. If a sign is torn or deteriorates it will be repaired and/or replaced.
Section 1250.02 of the Sign Ordinance regulates the use of temporary on-premise signs. The
property is zoned R-4 Multiple Dwelling District, therefore, standards for Sign District 3 apply in
this case. The Ordinance permits the property to have no more than one (1) temporary sign not to
exceed 10 square feet in area. However, because the building currently has space for lease the
property is allowed one (1) additional temporary sign not to exceed 25 square feet in area.
City Planner Streff
stated that the applicant has indicated that they would like to display the
temporary wall signage from the date the sign permit is issued to July 1, 2014. Under the Sign
Ordinance, the property is allowed to display a permitted temporary sign for no more than thirty
(30) days per calendar year. A sign advertising available space for lease in a building can be
displayed until seven (7) days after the building is leased. The applicant has provided a narrative
explaining their request and elevations of the building depicting the proposed signage.
Site Data
Future Land Use Plan: High Density Residential
Existing Land Use: Multiple Family
Zoning: R-4 Multiple Dwelling District
Current Lot Sizes: 2.26 acres
Topography: Fairly Flat
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 20144
City Planner Streff
reviewed the surrounding area, the Plan Evaluation and the Site Plan
Review.
City Planner Streff
explained the Planning Commission must make a finding as to whether or
not the proposed Sign Standard Adjustment at 1290 County Road F West meets the criteria in the
Sign Code to deviate from the sign regulations and if the proposed increase in temporary wall
signage would adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood and the community as a whole.
Staff offers the following findings for consideration:
1. The property is located in the R-4 Multiple Dwelling District.
2. The property is located in Sign District 3.
3. In Sign District 3, wall signage up to twenty (20) square feet and freestanding signage up
to thirty-two (32) square feet is permitted.
4. For single occupant parcels, no more than one (1) permitted temporary sign shall be
permitted at any given time. The area of the temporary signage shall not exceed one half
of the permitted wall sign area. Displayed for a maximum of thirty (30) days.
5. Buildings with lease or vacant space may obtain one (1) temporary wall sign not to
exceed twenty-five (25) square feet in size. Displayed for a maximum of seven (7) days
after the building is leased.
6. The applicant is proposing two (2) temporary wall signs to be located on the building.
7. The proposed temporary wall sign facing I-694 would measure six (6) feet by forty (40)
feet, an area of 240 square feet.
8. The proposed temporary wall sign facing County Road F would measure six (6) feet by
thirty (33) feet, an area of 198 square feet.
9. Section 1260 of the Sign Code permits deviation from the Sign Code through the Site
Plan Review process.
10. The proposed signs would be displayed from the date the sign permit is issued to July 1,
2014.
11.
ability to effectively advertise the availability of apartment units in the building.
12. The signs would not be in direct view from residential properties.
13. The sign adjustment will not result in a sign that is inconsistent with the purpose of the R-
4 Multiple Dwelling District.
14. Increasing the amount of temporary wall signage would not have a negative impact on
adjacent properties or the City as a whole.
City Planner Streff
stated based on the submitted plans and findings of fact, staff recommends
approval of Planning Case 13-023 for a Sign Standard Adjustment under the Site Plan Review
process. Staff recommends the following six (6) conditions be included with the approval:
1. That the project shall be completed in accordance with the plans submitted as amended
by the conditions of approval. Any significant changes to these plans, as determined by
the City Planner, shall require review and approval by the Planning Commission and City
Council.
2. That the two temporary wall signs shall be removed by July 1, 2014.
3. That the temporary wall sign on the south elevation shall be no larger than 240 square
feet.
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 20145
4. That the temporary wall sign on the north elevation shall be no larger than 198 square
feet.
5. That the applicant shall maintain the two signs in like new condition and repair and/or
replace a banner if it is torn or deteriorates during the approved timeline.
6. That the applicant shall apply for a sign permit prior to the installation of the sign.
City Planner Streff
reviewed the options available to the Planning Commission on this matter:
1. Recommend Approval with Conditions.
2. Recommend Approval as Submitted.
3. Recommend Denial
4. Table
Chair Larson
opened the floor to Commissioner comments.
Commissioner Bartel
requested further information on the sign standard requirements.
City Planner Streff
discussed how and why the sign standards were created. He then reviewed
the standards for Sign District 3 in further detail with the Commission.
Commissioner Bartel
asked how the 40 foot sign would be installed on the building and
inquired what materials would be used to construct the sign.
City Planner Streff
deferred this question to the applicant.
Commissioner Holewa
asked when the sign would be removed.
Ann Carl
, Sand Companies, representative for Arden Village, explained that the signs would be
taken down by July 1, 2014 or once all of the apartments were leased, whichever is earlier.
Commissioner Bartel
questioned how the banner signs would be constructed and installed on
the building.
Ms. Carl
indicated that the banners would be made of a heavy-duty vinyl and would be attached
as recommended by the sign vendor. She believed the signs would be connected with hooks.
She reviewed the previously approved temporary signs that were approved for E Street Flats,
noting these signs were similar to the signs being requested this evening.
Commissioner Hames
ode was put together hastily and the Planning
Commission was constantly revisiting this portion of the City Code. It was her opinion that the
Sign Code should be revised.
Commissioner Holewa
agreed stating the Sign Code should be reviewed.
Chair Larson
proposed work plan for 2014.
Community Development Director Hutmacher
explained the Planning Commission would be
holding a work session meeting with the City Council in March to discuss the 2014 work plan.
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 20146
Commissioner Holewa
welcomed Arden Village to Arden Hills. He was pleased with the
renovations completed on the site. He wanted to see the City help this property and supported
the proposed sign standard adjustment.
Commissioner Thompson
banner condition remain clean and that it be replaced if it becomes torn or weathered.
Commissioner Bartel
stated it was his opinion that approval of this request could set a
precedent. However, this could be addressed through revisions to the Sign Code.
Chair Larson
agreed that setting a precedent could be dangerous; however, the requested signs
would greatly increase visibility for Arden Village.
Commissioner Holewa
reiterated that the sign request, even though it was above the current sign
standards, was temporary.
Commissioner Scott moved and Commissioner Holewa seconded a motion to recommend
approval of Planning Case 13-023 for a Sign Standard Adjustment at 1290 County Road F
West based on the findings of fact and the submitted plans, as amended by the six (6)
conditions in the January 8, 2014, report to the Planning Commission. The motion carried
unanimously (6-0).
B.Planning Case 13-017; PUD Amendment; 1201 County Road E Public Hearing
Associate Planner Bachler
stated TAT Properties, Inc. has requested a Planned Unit
Development Amendment (2nd) to construct a 17,743 square foot retail building on the southeast
corner of the property located at 1201 County Road E.
Associate Planner Bachler
reported that in December 2012, the City Council approved Planning
Case 12-019 for a Master and Final Planned Unit Development (PUD) at 1201 County Road E.
This planning case allowed the reuse of the existing building on the property for 74 residential
apartment units and approximately 20,000 square feet of retail space. A Certificate of Occupancy
for the building was issued in October 2013. The City Council later approved a Certificate of
Completion for the E Street Flats project in November 2013, which acknowledged that the
developer had completed certain site improvements as required by the Development Agreement.
Associate Planner Bachler
indicated that the approved Master PUD consists only of the
redevelopment of the existing building on the property and the completion of site improvements.
A previous land use application (PC #11-011) submitted by the applicant and approved by the
City Council in 2011 included a preliminary plat proposal that would have subdivided the
property into two parcels. Approval for this land use application expired prior to the City taking
action on Planning Case 12-019.
Associate Planner Bachler
commented the Development Agreement states that the property
owner intends to develop the eastern two acres of the site into retail or other commercial uses and
that any future development will require a separate application to the City. Also included in the
Agreement is the provision that any significant changes to the approved plans require a review by
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 20147
the Planning Commission and approval by the City Council. Staff has determined that the
proposed project qualifies as being significant and that an amendment to the existing Master
PUD is required.
Associate Planner Bachler
stated since 1201 County Road E would continue to be a single
parcel of property, the proposal has been evaluated based on whether the entire site will meet the
zoning requirements once the new development is completed. It should be noted that the site plan
was designed so that the two-acre development site would be in conformance with zoning
regulations independent of the entire parcel in terms of building and landscape lot coverage.
Associate Planner Bachler
explained the applicant has proposed constructing a 17,743 square
foot retail building that would be located on the undeveloped two acre eastern portion of 1201
County Road E. The proposal does not include a request to subdivide the property. TAT
Properties, LLC has been working with Goodwill Industries and plans to sign a long-term lease
with the company for use of the building. If the proposal is approved, the applicant expects to
start work on the site in April or May 2014, with an anticipated construction completion schedule
of six months.
Associate Planner Bachler
noted the building would be located at the southeast corner of the
site and situated at the required front setback line along County Road E and Lexington Avenue.
Slightly more than half of the building area would be used for retail sales, with the remaining
space divided between employee offices, a donation processing area, and a drive-thru donation
center. Parking and loading areas would be located at the rear and western sides of the building.
The development would be accessed using the easterly driveway on the property, which currently
services E Street Flats.
Architectural features would extend along all four sides of the building. Design elements include
parapets, corner columns, façade articulation, awnings, windows, and variation in building
materials. Landscaped areas on the site will help shade the parking lot and provide screening of
the backside of the building.
Associate Planner Bachler
stated the Planned Unit Development process is a tool that provides
additional flexibility for development that an underlying zoning district would not otherwise
allow. For example, a PUD may make exceptions to setbacks, lot coverage, parking
requirements, signage, building materials, or landscaping requirements. It is intended to
overcome the limitations of zoning regulations and improve the overall design of a project.
While the PUD process allows the City to negotiate certain aspects of the development, any
conditions imposed on the PUD must have a rational basis related to the expected impact of the
development. A PUD cannot be used to permit uses that would not otherwise be permitted in the
underlying zoning district.
Site Data
Future Land Use Plan: Community Mixed Use
Existing Land Use: Multi-Family Residential, Community Commercial
Zoning: B-2 General Business District
Current Lot Sizes: 8.04 acres (350,078 SF)
Topography: The parcel is generally flat
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 20148
Associate Planner Bachler
reviewed the surrounding area and the Plan Review.
Associate Planner Bachler
stated the Planning Commission must make a finding as to whether
or not the proposed PUD Amendment at 1201 County Road E would adversely affect the
surrounding neighborhood or the community as a whole based on the aforementioned factors.
Staff offers the following twelve (12) findings of fact for consideration:
1. The property is located in the B-2 General Business District.
2. The City has adopted the Guiding Plan for the B-2 District that outlines future
development principals for the area.
3. The City has adopted additional Design Standards for the B-2 District within the Zoning
Code.
4. The Master PUD at 1201 County Road E was approved by the City on December 21,
2012 in Planning Case 12-019.
5. The Master PUD Development Agreement requires that any significant changes to the
approved plans be reviewed by the Planning Commission and approved by the City
Council.
6. The applicant is requesting approval of an Amendment to the approved PUD to construct
a 17,743 square foot retail building on the southeast corner of the property at 1201
County Road E.
7.
process with a developer.
8. The proposed PUD Amendment is in substantial conformance with the requirements of
the Zoning Code and the B-2 District Design Standards.
9. Where the plan is not in conformance with the Zoning Code, flexibility has been
requested by the applicant and/or conditions have been placed on an approval that would
mitigate the nonconformities.
10. The property is located in Sign District 5.
11. The proposed PUD Amendment is in conformance with the requirements of Sign District
5 of the Sign Code.
12. The proposal is not anticipated to adversely affect the immediate area or the community
as a whole.
Associate Planner Bachler
explained that based on the submitted plans and findings of fact,
staff recommends approval of Planning Case 13-017 for a Planned Unit Development
Amendment at 1201 County Road E. Staff recommends the following twenty-four (24)
conditions be included with the approval:
1. The project shall be completed in accordance with the submitted plans as amended by the
conditions of approval. Any significant changes to these plans, as determined by the City
Planner, shall require review and approval by the Planning Commission and City
Council.
2. An amendment to the Development Agreement shall be prepared by the City Attorney
and subject to City Council approval. The document shall be executed prior to the
issuance of a grading and erosion control permit.
3. The applicant shall obtain a building permit within one year of the PUD Amendment
approval or the approval shall expire unless extended by the City Council prior to the
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 20149
approv
least 45 days prior to the expiration date.
4. The applicant shall submit a financial surety in the amount of 125 percent of the
estimated costs of site improvements including grading, utilities, and paving, prior to the
issuance of a grading and erosion control permit. The financial surety shall be in the form
of a letter of credit issued by a FDIC-insured Minnesota bank, and be in a form acceptable
to the City. The purpose of the letter of credit is to ensure that site improvements are
completed in the event that the developer defaults on the Development Agreement.
5. The applicant shall submit a cash escrow in the amount of 25 percent of the estimated
costs of site improvements including grading, utilities, and paving, prior to the issuance
of a grading and erosion control permit. The escrow will be used for City costs related to
review, approval, and inspection of site improvements or any costs incurred by the City in
the event of a developer default.
6. The applicant shall submit a financial surety in the amount of 125 percent of the
estimated costs of landscaping prior to the issuance of a grading and erosion control
permit. The financial surety shall be in the form of a letter of credit issued by a FDIC-
insured Minnesota bank. The purpose of the letter of credit is to ensure that landscaping is
completed in the event that the developer defaults on the Development Agreement. The
City will hold the letter of credit for two years after the installation of landscaping. The
letter of credit should not expire during the two-year period.
7. The applicant shall submit a cash escrow in the amount of 25 percent of the estimated
costs of landscaping prior to the issuance of a grading and erosion control permit. The
escrow will be held by the City for two years after installation of landscaping and used for
City costs related to review, approval, and inspection of landscaping, or developer
default.
8. The applicant shall complete a sidewalk segment along the north side of County Road E
from Lexington Avenue to the easterly driveway into 1201 County Road E. The City is
currently holding $50,000 in escrow from the property owner for the completion of
sidewalk improvements by the City along the entire length of the 1201 County Road E
property. The City will return a portion of this escrow to the applicant based on a
calculation of the estimated cost for the City to complete the remaining sidewalk between
the easterly driveway and the western border of the 1201 County Road E property.
9. The plans shall be subject to Fire Marshall and Ramsey County Sheriff approval prior to
the issuance of a building permit.
10. A lighting and photometric plan shall be reviewed and approved by the City and the
Ramsey County Sheriff prior to issuance of a building permit.
11. Upon completion of grading and utility work on the site, a grading asbuilt and utility
asbuilt shall be provided to the City for review.
12. The applicant shall provide the City with a copy of the NPDES construction permit
required for the site.
13. The applicant shall acquire a Right-of-Way permit from Ramsey County for any work
completed in the County Road E and Lexington Avenue Right-of-Way.
14. A fire hydrant shall be located within 150 feet of F.D.C.
15. A Fire Department lock box shall be provided on the site.
16. All spandrel glass used on the retail building shall be light grey or other color that closely
matches the appearance of the transparent glass being used.
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 201410
17. Roof-mounted mechanical equipment shall be completely screened from the ground-level
view of adjacent properties and public streets.
18. The property owner shall coordinate with the City to ensure that any plantings in the
gateway sign ease
19. No semi-trailer trucks shall enter or exit the site between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and
10:00 P.M.
20. For twelve (12) months following the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy, the
owner/developer may operate without regard to the condition regarding hour restrictions
for truck operations (Condition #19). At the end of that period, the City at its discretion
may in writing extend the exception to the restriction, allow it to expire, or process a
permanent amendment to the PUD.
21. Any future subdivision of the property at 1201 County Road E shall be conditioned on the
prohibition of direct access to Lexington Avenue or new access to County Road E. The
existing County Road E access may be relocated with City and County approval.
22. The metal screen and gate around the loading area shall be light tan to match the color of
the brick used on the building façade.
23. On-site way finding signage shall be installed to clearly identify the donation drop-off
location.
24. The four (4) dashed parking spaces as shown on the AS100 Site Plan shall be removed in
order to accommodate truck maneuvering on site and access to the loading area.
Associate Planner Bachler
reviewed the options available to the Planning Commission on this
matter:
1. Recommend Approval with Conditions.
2. Recommend Approval as Submitted.
3. Recommend Denial
4. Table
Chair Larson
opened the floor to Commissioner comments.
Commissioner Holewa
asked if a Rice Creek Watershed permit would be required for this
project.
Associate Planner Bachler
stated that the property currently has a permit from Rice Creek
Watershed from the E Street Flats project. He noted this permit was still open and there would
be no need for the applicant to apply for another permit.
Commissioner Holewa
comments were addressed by the applicant.
Associate Planner Bachler
explained that he and the City Engineer would be responsible for
ensuring all comments were addressed.
Commissioner Holewa
asked if all of the B-2 District Design Standards were met.
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 201411
Associate Planner Bachler
indicated one area of flexibility being requested by the applicant was
the transparent glass on the building. In addition, the proposal does not include seating outside
the main entrance to the building.
Commissioner Holewa
requested staff discuss previous traffic studies that have been completed
for the area, especially with regard to the County Road E and Lexington Avenue intersection.
Associate Planner Bachler
reported that several previous traffic studies did not fully analyze the
County Road E and Lexington Avenue intersection. He indicated the traffic study that was
completed in 2007 for the Arden Plaza redevelopment found that the intersection operated at a
Level of Service D. This study was shared with SRF Consulting Group, who completed the
traffic study for the proposed retail development. The findings of the SRF study indicated that the
Lexington Avenue/County Road E intersection operates at a Level of Service C.
Commissioner Holewa
requested staff provide information on the gateway sign easement.
Associate Planner Bachler
commented the City had an existing easement for a gateway sign on
the property. The easement covered 350 square feet. The applicant was aware of the easement
and was willing to work with the City to ensure that plantings in the easement do not conflict
Commissioner Bartel
discussed the requirements that were not being met within the B-2 zoning
district. He noted there was also flexibility requested in terms of the required tree plantings
along the right-of-way.
Matt Pacyna
, Senior Associate with SRF, addressed the concerns regarding the different levels
of service at the County Road E and Lexington Avenue intersection. He explained he just
received the 2007 study today. He explained that he reviewed the traffic volumes along
Lexington Avenue as reported in the 2007 study and that those volumes have decreased since
then due to changes in travel patterns.
Commissioner Holewa
expressed frustration with the traffic congestion at Lexington and
County Road E, especially when trying to make left turns.
Mr. Pacyna
explained that dual left turn lanes on County Road E were being proposed by the
County and this would assist with the congestion.
Commissioner Holewa
asked when the mid-day traffic counts were taken.
Mr. Pacyna
indicated the mid-day counts were taken from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Chair Larson
requested staff discuss how truck traffic would move through the proposed site.
Mr. Pacyna
reviewed how truck traffic would move through the site. He recommended truck
traffic be limited during peak hours.
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 201412
Associate PlannerBachler
stated staff was recommending that the four parking stalls near the
entrance to the loading area be removed to accommodate truck maneuvering on the site. This
would reduce the number of parking stalls from 65 to 61.
Rob Davidson
, TAT Properties, discussed the development of E Street Flats. He indicated the
proposed PUD amendment would allow for the site to be fully developed while offering a
pedestrian friendly retail option in Arden Hills. He addressed the truck traffic concerns stating
on a weekly basis there would be no more than three to five trucks utilizing the site. He
explained he was available for questions and had several concerns regarding the staff
recommended conditions.
Commissioner Hames
complimented the developer and Goodwill for coming to the City with a
complete plan.
Commissioner Holewa
found the proposed use to be a good fit for the site.
Commissioner Thompson
asked how the proposed business would operate with regard to
donation drop-off and processing.
Debbie Ferry
, Goodwill/Easter Sales Minnesota, invited the Commission to visit the Goodwill
Corporate store in the Midway area. She indicated items are turned every three weeks and truck
trailers are used to remove items that have not sold.
Commissioner Holewa
stated the level of donations were on the rise as people were interested in
recycling their goods.
Scott Nelson
, DJR Architecture, explained he has enjoyed working with staff on this project. He
then reviewed how the proposed Goodwill store would meet the B-2 design standards. He
reviewed the mission of the Goodwill organization stating this store would greatly benefit Arden
Hills.
Commissioner Thompson
asked how the roof parapets would be supported.
Mr. Nelson
indicated the roof line would be completed in concrete block and would be able to
support weight of the proposed parapets.
Chair Larson
opened the public hearing at 8:01 p.m.
Chair Larson
invited anyone for or against the application to come forward and make comment.
There being no comment Chair Larson closed the public hearing at 8:01 p.m.
Commissioner Hames
requested comment from the developer regarding the proposed staff
conditions.
Mr. Davidson
stated his main concerns were with Conditions 4 through 7. He indicated these
conditions addressed the finances of the project and were vastly different from the conditions
required for the E Street Flats redevelopment. It was his opinion that the proposed escrows were
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 201413
far in excess from what was necessary. He requested the Commission modify these conditions to
more closely reflect the financial conditions for the E Street Flats redevelopment.
Community Development Director Hutmacher
indicated that the proposed financial
conditions were developed when the Lexington Station redevelopment project was approved.
The City evaluated the security and escrow standards to ensure the City was adequately
protected. She commented the City Attorney supported the proposed conditions noting the
securities would be returned to the applicant upon completion of the project.
Chair Larson
conditions if recommended by staff and the City Attorney. He suggested the applicant take this
matter up with the City Council.
Mr. Davidson
commented Conditions 19 and 20 regarding the truck traffic did not work for
Goodwill. He stated the condition would force truck traffic to enter and exit the site after hours
which would disrupt the adjacent E Street Flats tenants. He reported the truck traffic would be
very limited. He proposed Condition 19 be amended to prohibit truck traffic between the hours
of 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Chair Larson
agreed that Condition 19 was unnecessarily restrictive. He recommended the
Planning Commission address this matter. He suggested the truck traffic not be restricted for the
first year and that this condition be permanently removed after the first year.
Associate Planner Bachler
indicated Condition 19 would not apply to the site in the first year.
After that time, the City could either extend this period, allow the period to expire, or process a
permanent amendment to the PUD.
Community Development Director Hutmacher
stated that after 12 months the waiver could
expire and the restriction on truck traffic would take effect, or the waiver could be extended with
no restrictions on delivery times. The applicant could request a PUD amendment to eliminate
Condition 19 in the future. She commented the proposed language was recommended by the
City Attorney.
Commissioner Hames
asked if the current conditions required action at the end of 12 months.
Community Development Director Hutmacher
stated this was the case.
Commissioner Thompson
questioned why truck traffic was being restricted particularly during
the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
Associate Planner Bachler
indicated the proposed hours were selected to reduce the potential
truck traffic impact on County Road E and the easterly driveway on the site.
Commissioner Thompson
was in favor of reviewing the hours for truck traffic as they were too
restrictive as proposed.
Commissioner Holewa
questioned who would monitor the truck traffic if the restrictive hours
were left in place.
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 201414
Associate Planner Bachler
stated the City would have a difficult time enforcing the condition
but he hoped that an understanding could be reached between the City and the property owner.
Commissioner Hames
did not agree with having truck traffic moving to and from the site
between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. given that an apartment building is also located on
the property.
Chair Larson
questioned the hours of operation for Goodwill.
Ms. Ferry
reported most Goodwill locations were open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday
through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Mr. Davidson
stated Condition 19 was extremely restrictive and could put his tenant out of
business. He reiterated that there would be a very limited amount of truck traffic going to and
from this site.
Commissioner Hames
suggested this condition be amended to read no semi trailer trucks shall
enter or exit the site from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. She recommended
Condition 19 be more clearly defined and that Condition 20 be removed.
Commissioner Scott
supported this recommendation.
Commissioner Bartel
agreed adding that Condition 20 was extremely vague.
Commissioner Holewa
recommended Goodwill not have truck traffic during the lunch and
dinner hours as these were peak traffic times.
Commissioner Holewa moved and Commissioner Hames seconded a motion to recommend
approval of Planning Case 13-017 for a PUD Amendment at 1201 County Road E based on
the findings of fact and the submitted plans, as amended by the twenty-two (22) conditions
(Conditions 19 and 20 are removed) in the January 8, 2014, report to the Planning
Commission.
Commissioner Scott
commented that deliveries may be left up to the discretion of the driver.
He recommended the Planning Commission set a timeframe for when deliveries can and cannot
be made to the site.
Chair Larson
asked that if complaints were made regarding the level of truck traffic, if an
amendment to the PUD could be made.
Associate Planner Bachler
indicated this was to put conditions in place
regarding truck traffic.
Commissioner Hames
suggested Condition 20 be eliminated, but that Condition 19 set specific
hours for deliveries.
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 201415
Commissioner Holewa
indicated it would be difficult for staff to monitor the truck traffic. He
explained
of 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Chair Larson
stated the proposed use would have a small amount of truck traffic. He was
pleased with the site plan and supported the motion.
Commissioner Thompson
agreed and encouraged Goodwill to consider the traffic concerns
along County Road E and keep their trucks off this roadway during peak traffic times.
Chair Larson
requested staff provide further information on how the County would be altering
County Road E.
Community Development Director Hutmacher
discussed the proposed eastbound dual left-
turn lane onto Lexington Avenue that would be added to County Road E by the County.
Chair Larson
asked if the Commissioners had any other concerns regarding the request.
Commissioner Bartel
stated his only concern with this Planning Case was the limited
landscaping on the south side of the building and how this property was keeping with the B-2
design standards with regard to landscaping.
Associate Planner Bachler
stated there was not sufficient right-of-way for additional plantings
on this side of the building.
Community Development Director Hutmacher
explained that when the building was pushed
closer to the corner as encouraged by the B-2 Design Standards, a certain amount of space was
eliminated that could have been used for landscaping.
The motion carried (5-1) (Bartel opposed).
COMMENTS AND REPORTS
A.TCAAP Update
Community Development Director Hutmacher
stated the Arden Hills City Council reviewed
the first draft of the Master Plan on December 16 and 26, 2013. The City Council provided a list
of concerns for consideration by the Arden Hills Planning Commission. The Planning
Commission will review the draft Master Plan at a work session meeting immediately following
the regular Planning Commission meeting on January 8, 2014.
Community Development Director Hutmacher
reported the next TCAAP open house is
scheduled for Wednesday, January 22, 2014, 5:30 to 7:30 pm in the Marsden Room at the
Ramsey County Public Works Facility.
B. Council Liaison Report
ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION January 8, 201416
Council Liaison Holmes
explained she was looking forward to working with the Planning
Commission as the Council Liaison in 2014. She invited the Planning Commission to attend the
nd
TCAAP Open House that would be held on January 22 at 5:30 p.m. in the Marsden Room at
the Ramsey County Public Works Facility.
Council Liaison Holmes
reported the Council was considering a franchise fee that would be
used for parks, trails, and roads. She indicated this matter would be discussed by the Council in
th
further detail and that a public hearing would be held at both the February 10 and the February
th
24 Council meetings.
Council Liaison Holmes
welcomed Associate Planner Bachler to the City of Arden Hills as he
was offered a full-time position which became effective January 1, 2014. She looked forward to
working with him on planning and redevelopment issues.
ADJOURN
Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Hames, to adjourn the January
8, 2014, Planning Commission Meeting at 8:40 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (6-0).