HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-10-14-R ,- RZEN HILLS
Approved: April 14, 2014
CITY OF ARDEN HILLS,MINNESOTA
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MARCH 10,2014
7:00 P.M. -ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor David Grant called to order the regular City
Council meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Present: Mayor David Grant; Councilmembers Brenda Holden, Fran Holmes, Dave
McClung, and Ed Werner
Absent: None
Also present: City Administrator Patrick Klaers; Public Works Director Terry Maurer;
Community Development Director Jill Hutmacher; Associate Planner Matthew Bachler;
City Planner Ryan Streff; and City Clerk Amy Died
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Councilmember McClung requested Item 5D be pulled from the Consent Agenda and be
discussed as Item 6A.
MOTION: Councilmember Holmes moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a
motion to approve the meeting agenda as amended. The motion carried
unanimously (5-0).
2. PUBLIC INQUIRIESANFORMATIONAL
Charlie Kachel, 1500 Arden Place, addressed the Council regarding the importance of safe trails
in the City of Arden Hills.
3. STAFF COMMENTS
A. TCAAP Update
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MARCH 10, 2014 2
Community Development Director Hutmacher provided an update on TCAAP for the Council.
She explained work would continue on the site after the spring thaw. She indicated several
developer interviews have been held and interest in the TCAAP site continues to grow.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. January 27, 2014, Regular City Council
B. January 27, 2014, Work Session
C. February 10, 2014, Regular City Council
Councilmember Holden had several minor changes to the February 10, 2014 City Council
minutes.
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Werner seconded a
motion to approve the January 27, 2014, Regular City Council meeting
minutes; January 27, 2014, Work Session meeting minutes; and February 10,
2014, Regular City Council meeting minutes as amended. The motion carried
unanimously (5-0).
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Motion to Approve Consent Agenda Item- Claims and Payroll
B. Approve Resolution 2014-015 Appointing Jennifer Stephens to the PTRC
C. Approve Planning Case 14-011 —Lexington Station—Final Plat
D. Approve Findings of Faet and Deeision Regarding Applieation of Allifta Heal
EMS for-a Zoning Code AmendmepA and CUP
E. Approve Findings of Fact and Decision Regarding Application of St. Paul —
Ramsey County Public Health Department for a CUP
MOTION: Councilmember Holmes moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a
motion to approve the Consent Calendar as amended, removing Item 51) and
to authorize execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The
motion carried unanimously (5-0).
6. PULLED CONSENT ITEMS
A. Approve Findings of Fact and Decision Regarding Application of Allina
Health EMS for a Zoning Code Amendment and CUP
Councilmember McClung requested this Item be pulled from the Consent Agenda to allow for a
separate vote.
MOTION: Councilmember Holmes moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a
motion to approve the Findings of Fact and Decision Regarding Application
of Allina Health EMS for a Zoning Code Amendment and Conditional Use
Permit for Property at 1209 County Rd E in Planning Cases 14-004 and 14-
005. The motion carried 3-2 (McClung and Werner opposed).
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MARCH 10, 2014 3
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. TCAAP Development Discussion Opportunity for Residents
Mayor Grant stated under the Public Hearing section, citizens would have an opportunity to
discuss ideas regarding the TCAAP development.
Mayor Grant opened the public hearing at 7:12 p.m.
With no one coming forward to speak, Mayor Grant closed the public hearing at 7:13 p.m.
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning Case 14-010—PUD Amendment—Lexington Station
Associate Planner Bachler stated on July 8, 2013, the City Council approved a Master Planned
Unit Development and Final Planned Unit Development for Phase I of the Lexington Station
redevelopment project at 3833 Lexington Avenue North in Planning Case 13-003. The approved
Redevelopment Plan Documents included architectural plans for the Phase I building depicting
transparent windows on all four sides of the building. Roberts Management Group has recently
signed leases with Noodles & Company and Starbucks for spaces within the building. These
tenants have requested to use simulated windows in select areas on the east, north, and south
fagades in order to accommodate kitchen and restroom facilities. The applicant expects to sign
leases with at least one additional restaurant tenant who will also likely need to use simulated
windows specifically on the central section of the east fagade.
Associate Planner Bachler indicated the Master Planned Unit Development Agreement between
the City and Roberts Management Group states that any significant changes to the Redevelopment
Plan Documents, as determined by the City Planner, shall require review and approval by the City
Council. City staff met with Roberts Management Group to discuss the proposed changes to the
Phase I building design and determined a PUD Amendment should be requested.
Associate Planner Bachler reported Roberts Management has proposed using a back-lit, frosted
glazing window design on the windows on the east elevation facing Lexington Avenue, two
windows on the north elevation facing Red Fox Road, and one window on the south elevation.
The west building elevation, which includes the primary entrances to the tenant spaces, would
remain unchanged.
The window panes would be treated with a frosted glazing and a light fixture would be included
on the interior of the building directly above the top sill of each window. This light fixture would
be connected to the tenants' regular interior lighting systems and would remain on during regular
business hours. The frosted window glazing would be opaque, allowing for light from the interior
light fixture to pass through the windows.
Associate Planner Bachler explained how the proposed window design differs from the
construction of simulated windows using spandrel glass. This is a commonly used approach that
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MARCH 10, 2014 4
involves the application of a colored coating to the glass and the construction of a wall directly
behind the window. Darkly shaded spandrel windows can often give retail stores the appearance
of being closed and the applicant believes their proposal for back-lit, frosted glazing windows will
help simulate an "open for business" appearance. Roberts Management Group has included a
project narrative and a detailed drawing that provides more detail on the proposed window design.
Associate Planner Bachler stated the design standards for properties in the B-3 District require
that commercial buildings provide at least 50 percent transparency coverage on the first level
fagade that fronts a public street. In this case, the Lexington Avenue and Red Fox Road fagades
would be required to meet this standard. At least 20 percent of all other fagades that are
reasonably visible from the public right-of-way must include transparent window or door
openings. On these fagades, simulated windows may be used on service areas. This standard
would apply to the two remaining building fagades. For one-story buildings, only the first twelve
feet of the building fagade is used when calculating the transparency coverage.
Associate Planner Bachler noted the City may consider a proportional reduction in the
transparent window and door requirement on the public street fagades if additional transparent
glass is used on the remaining sides. For buildings with a use that does not readily allow
transparent windows, the transparency requirements may also be reduced at the discretion of the
City Council
Associate Planner Bachler commented that in Planning Case 13-003, the City approved a certain
amount of transparency coverage on all four sides of the building. The proposal would reduce
transparency coverage on the east, north, and south fagades. The transparency coverage on the
west fagade and the total amount of window coverage on all four sides would remain unchanged.
Associate Planner Bachler reported the Planning Commission reviewed Planning Case 14-010 at
their meeting on March 5, 2014, and generally supported the proposed design of the windows. The
Planning Commission discussed how the master plan concept for the site shows all of the
buildings oriented to face inwards onto a central open area. As a result, the primary entrances to
the Phase I and Phase III buildings with frontage on Lexington Avenue will face west away from
the roadway. The Planning Commission noted that with the proposal, the applicant would still be
providing significant transparency coverage on the west fagade of the Phase I building.
Associate Planner Bachler explained that in the Master and Final PUD proposal for Lexington
Station, the applicant worked with the City to include design elements on the eastern fagade of the
Phase I building to give it the appearance of being the front of the building. These features include
awnings, light fixtures, landscaping, and the use of brick on the entirety of the fagade. The
majority of the Commissioners felt that the use of simulated windows on the east building wall
would not significantly detract from the overall aesthetics of this fagade. It was also noted that the
retaining wall and drive-thru lane in front of the building would partially obscure this side of the
building from view of pedestrians and drivers on Lexington Avenue.
Associate Planner Bachler indicated the Planning Commission discussed the proposed lighting
on the interior of the frosted windows and how the light fixtures would be replaced. The applicant
explained that a sheetrocked wall would be constructed six inches from each window and that an
access door would be provided to allow for maintenance of the lights. The Planning Commission
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MARCH 10, 2014 5
made a recommendation that the City Council consider a condition of approval that would require
the building owner to regularly service the interior light fixtures and replace burnt out bulbs.
Associate Planner Bachler noted the Planning Commission reviewed this application at their
March 5, 2014,meeting, and have offered the following findings of fact for consideration:
I. The property is located in the B-3 Service Business Zoning District.
2. The City has adopted design standards for the B-3 District within the Zoning Code.
3. The Master Planned Unit Development and Final Planned Unit Development for Phase I
of the Lexington Station redevelopment project was approved by the City on July 8, 2013,
in Planning Case 13-003.
4. The applicant is proposing an amendment to the approved Final PUD for Phase I for a
revised building plan that would reduce the facade transparency on the Phase I building.
The applicant has cited a need to reduce transparency coverage in order to accommodate
kitchen and restroom facilities used by tenants in the building.
5. The design standards for the B-3 District allow the City to grant a proportional reduction
in the transparency requirement on the public street fagades if additional transparent glass
is used on the remaining sides.
6. For buildings with a use that does not readily allow transparent windows, the transparency
requirements may also be reduced at the discretion of the City Council.
7. The proposed PUD Amendment is in substantial conformance with the requirements of the
City's Zoning Code.
8. The PUD Amendment approval process allows for flexibility within the City's regulations
through a negotiated process with a developer.
Associate Planner Bachler explained the Planning Commission reviewed this request at their
meeting on March 5, 2014, and recommends approval (4-1, Holewa dissenting) of Planning Case
14-010 for an amendment to the Final PUD for Phase I of the Lexington Station redevelopment
project at 3833 Lexington Avenue North, based on the findings of fact and submitted plans. The
Planning Commission recommended that the following three (3) conditions be included in a
motion to approve:
I. 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 by the Planning Commission and review and approval by the
City Council.
2. The applicant shall continue to abide by the conditions of approval listed in the Master
Planned Unit Development Agreement and Phase I — Final Plan for Lexington Station
(PC# 13-003).
3. A PUD Amendment shall be drafted by the City Attorney and executed prior to the
issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
Mayor Grant asked for comments or questions from the Council.
Councilmember Holden requested further information on the proposed metal panels on the north
building facade.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MARCH 10, 2014 6
Associate Planner Bachler explained the metal panels would be located around the drive-thru
window. He recommended additional information on the panels be provided by the applicant.
Nick Roberts, 1851 Buerkle Road, White Bear Lake, Roberts Management, commented that the
metal panels would serve as an architectural accent.
Councilmember McClung asked if the applicant supported the additional condition
recommended by the Planning Commission, which would require the building owner to regularly
maintain the lights on the interior side of the opaque windows.
Mr. Roberts did not object to this condition for approval.
Mayor Grant questioned how the lights would look from the outside of the building.
Mr. Roberts provided the Council with a sample of building materials to show how the light
would be diffused by the opaque windows.
Mayor Grant appreciated the applicant bringing in building materials that served as a sample for
the Council.
MOTION: Councilmember McClung moved and Councilmember Werner seconded a
motion to approve Planning Case 14-010 for an amendment to the Final PUD
for Phase I of the Lexington Station redevelopment project at 3833 Lexington
Avenue North, based on the findings of fact and submitted plans, as amended
by the four (4) conditions in the March 10,2014, report to the City Council.
Councilmember Holden requested the fourth condition read: The building owner shall regularly
service and clean the interior light fixtures, windows and void space, and replace burnt out bulbs
with consistent lighting.
Councilmember McClung and Councilmember Werner accepted this friendly amendment to
the motion.
The motion carried (5-0).
9. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Planning Case 13-019—Accessory Building Site Plan—Gradient Financial
City Planner Streff indicated that Planning Case #13-019 was tabled at the City Council meeting
on November 25, 2013, to allow the applicant additional time to research other exterior building
materials for the accessory structure and trash enclosure being proposed at 4105 Lexington
Avenue North, in order to comply with the zoning regulations.
City Planner Streff explained the applicant has resubmitted a revised exterior materials list for
the accessory structure and trash enclosure to be reviewed by the Council. The materials include a
white brick to be used on the front fagade and a cement board or cement board plank to be used on
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MARCH 10, 2014 7
the side and rear fagades of the accessory structure. The proposed brick for the accessory
structure is approximately an inch shorter in height than the brick used on the principal structure.
The applicant has provided three (3) different, yet similar colors of brick for the Council's review.
If approved the selected brick would be used for the front fagade of the accessory structure and the
three brick sides of the trash enclosure. The applicant has indicated their preference to use the
standard-size Oyster White brick in order to match the existing building.
City Planner Streff stated that the preferred cement board material that is proposed for the side
and rear fagades of the accessory structure comes in four (4) foot by eight (8) foot sheets and
provides a finished commercial appearance. The secondary material option of cement board plank
(i.e. lap siding) could also be used if a more residential appearance is preferred. Cement board
plank is constructed with four (4) inch to eight (8) inch reveals and comes in segments up to
twelve (12) feet in length. Both types of cement board are being proposed to be painted to match
the dark bronze metal panels on the existing building.
City Planner Streff explained that the City Council memo and the minutes from the November
25, 2013, meeting are included in the packet. A narrative describing the project and the revised list
of proposed materials to be used on the accessory structure and trash enclosure have been
included in the staff report.
City Planner Streff reported this item was tabled during the City Council meeting on November
25, 2013, to allow the applicant additional time to research other exterior building materials for
the accessory structure in order to comply with the zoning regulations. The zoning ordinance
states that "The exterior finish of accessory structures shall be compatible in appearance and
material used with the principal structure served by the accessory structure. "
City Planner Streff commented the Planning Commission reviewed this application at their
November 9, 2013, meeting and have offered the following findings of fact for the Council's
consideration:
1. Permanent accessory structures within this district are subject to a Site Plan Review and
Council approval.
2. The property is located in the I-1 Limited Industrial District.
3. The proposed accessory structure would be located in the northwest corner of the lot.
4. The proposed accessory building is 36'x50', an area of 1,800 square feet.
5. A flat rubber roof is being proposed to mimic the principal building on the property.
6. The purpose of the building is for storage of the equipment necessary for the maintenance
of the property.
7. The applicant has proposed an exterior finish of brick and cement board.
8. The structure will not result in a use that is inconsistent with the purpose or intent of the
Zoning Code or the I-1 Limited Industrial District.
9. The placement of an accessory structure in the proposed location should not have a
negative impact on adjacent properties or the City as a whole.
City Planner Streff explained the Planning Commission reviewed Planning Case #13-019 and
unanimously recommends approval of the Site Plan Review and Permanent Accessory Structure at
4105 Lexington Avenue North, based on the findings of fact and the submitted plans as presented
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MARCH 10, 2014 8
in the March 10, 2014, Report to the City Council, as amended by the following four (4)
conditions:
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 exterior of the accessory structure be constructed with a material that is
compatible to the principal building and approved by the City Planner before a building
permit is issued.
3. That a Grading and Erosion Control Permit shall be obtained by the applicant and
approved by the City before a Building Permit is issued.
4. That the applicant shall apply for a building permit prior to any construction.
Mayor Grant asked for comments or questions from the Council.
Councilmember Holden asked if the semi-trailer located to the rear of the property would remain
on site.
City Planner Streff indicated that he was unaware that a semi-trailer was located on the property.
Councilmember Holden questioned if the cement board would be painted.
City Planner Streff stated that the cement board would be painted in a dark gray color.
Nathaniel Cote, representative for the applicant, explained the cement board would be painted to
match the garage doors to provide a consistent color on the entire building.
MOTION: Councilmember McClung moved and Councilmember Holmes seconded a
motion to approve Planning Case #13-019 for a Site Plan Review and
Permanent Accessory Structure at 4105 Lexington Avenue North, based on
the findings of fact and the submitted plans as amended by the four (4)
conditions in the March 10,2014, report to the City Council.
Councilmember McClung thanked the applicant for providing the City with a better solution for
the proposed structure on the site.
Mayor Grant agreed.
The motion carried (5-0).
10. COUNCIL COMMENTS
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MARCH 10, 2014 9
Councilmember McClung indicated he would be out of town and unable to attend the March 31,
2014 City Council meeting. He noted Ramsey County Friends of the Park was holding their
annual tree sale and information was available at City Hall or online.
Councilmember Werner noted the EDC had several vacancies. He encouraged those interested
in serving to contact City Hall. He thanked Public Works for working to keep the streets free and
clear of ice and snow.
Councilmember Holmes stated the Council would meet jointly with the Planning Commission at
their next work session meeting on March 17, 2014. She reported the Planning Commission had
one vacancy.
Mayor Grant thanked the Public Works Department for their work on the waterline break on
County Road E.
ADJOURN
MOTION: Councilmember McClung moved and Councilmember Holmes seconded a
motion to adjourn. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Mayor Grant adjourned the tegular City Council meeting at 7:45 p.iu.
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Amy Dietl David Grant
City Clerk Mayor