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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-08-14 PC Minutes Approved: November 5, 2014 CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA PLANNING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2014 6:30 P.M. - ARDEN HILLS CITY HALL CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Vice Chair Roberta Thompson called to order the regular Planning Commission meeting at 6:30 p.m. ROLL CALL Present were: Vice Chair Roberta Thompson, Commissioners Angela Hames, Andrew Holewa, Steven Jones, and Clayton Zimmerman. Absent: Chair Clayton Larson and Commissioner Brent Bartel. Also present were: Community Development Director Jill Hutmacher; City Planner Ryan Streff; Associate Planner Matthew Bachler; and Councilmember Fran Holmes. APPROVAL OF AGENDA – OCTOBER 8, 2014 Vice Chair Thompson stated the agenda will stand as published. APPOINTMENTS A. Resignation of Samuel Scott Associate Planner Bachler stated that on September 11, 2014, Samuel Scott submitted his official resignation as a member of the Planning Commission. Within his resignation, Mr. Scott stated that he was resigning as a result of a change in his work schedule. Mr. Scott has served on the Commission since 2010, and his current term was set to expire on December 31, 2016. As stated in the City ordinance the vacant commission position will resume with the term of the resignin g commission member. Staff reported that during the Regular City Council meeting on September 29, 2014, the Council approved the resignation of Samuel Scott from the Arden Hills Planning Commission. Vice Chair Thompson explained that the Planning Commission had two alternate position vacancies. Any residents interested in serving were encouraged to view the City’s website or contact City Hall. B. Appointment of Steven Jones ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 2 Associate Planner Bachler reported that Steven Jones was appointed by the City Council as an alternate member of the Planning Commission in January of 2014. Commissioner Jones has now served in the alternate position for eight months and during this time has provided excellent feedback and dialogue with applicants and other Commissioners. After hearing of the vacancy that was created by the resignation of Samuel Scott, Mr. Jones expressed his interest in becoming a regular member on the Planning Commission. Staff explained that during the Regular City Council meeting on September 29, 2014, the Council unanimously approved the recommendation of the Planning Commission liaison to appoint Mr. Jones as a regular member of the Planning Commission. Mr. Jones will fulfill the term that was previously being served by Samuel Scott. His term will expire on December 31, 2016. APPROVAL OF MINUTES September 3, 2014 – Planning Commission Regular Meeting Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Hames, to approve the September 3, 2014, Planning Commission Regular Meeting minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). September 3, 2014 – Planning Commission Work Session Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Hames, to approve the September 3, 2014, Planning Commission Work Session Meeting minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). PLANNING CASES A. Planning Case 14-030; Site Plan Review; 4105 Lexington Avenue North – Not a Public Hearing City Planner Streff explained that the applicant has requested a Site Plan Review to reconfigure the existing parking lot on the property to allow for the rearrangement of parking areas, relocation of the access along County Road F West, closure of the access along Lexington Avenue North and other internal modifications that will maximize efficiency of the parking and driving areas at 4105 Lexington Avenue North. City Planner Streff stated that Gradient Financial owns the property located at 4105 Lexington Avenue, which is zoned I-1 Limited Industrial District. The property is generally positioned north of County Road F, south of Boston Scientific, east of Hamline Avenue and west of Lexington Avenue. City Planner Streff reported that the applicant is proposing to reconfigure the existing parking lot on the property in order to provide better accessibility to the front entrance of the Gradient Financial building and to plan for Ramsey County’s future reconstruction of the Lexington Avenue North and County Road F West intersection. The improvements to this intersection will result in the loss of parking spaces and the vehicle access along the eastern side of the property. The County’s project in this area is projected to begin during the 2015 construction season. As ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 3 indicated by the applicant a two-phased approach would be used in order to complete the proposed project. In the fall of 2014, during Phase 1, the western half of the parking lot would be reconstructed. Construction of Phase 2 is proposed to be completed in 2015, and will include the remaining eastern half of the parking lot. City Planner Streff indicated that in Phase 1 of construction a new access off of County Road F West would be constructed slightly to the west of the existing access in order to align the new access with the new driveway section being constructed up to the front entrance of the building. The proposed design is intended to better facilitate traffic movements within the site and to orient drivers towards the front of the building. As part of the new driveway design, a one-way traffic circle is being proposed to move drivers more efficiently towards the front entrance before transitioning to a parking space within the parking lot or to the front drop-off location. During Phase 1 new parking spaces would be created along the southwestern edge of the parking lot to make up for the spaces lost during the construction of the new entrance off of County Road F West and closure of the access in Phase 2 along Lexington Avenue North. The modifications being made to the parking lot in Phase 1 are being completed in order to accommodate the roadway expansion project proposed by Ramsey County at the intersection of Lexington Avenue North and County Road F West. City Planner Streff explained that during Phase 2 of construction the secondary driveway along Lexington Avenue North would be permanently closed so that a right turn lane onto County Road F West can be constructed. The roadway expansion project would result in the removal of additional parking spaces along the eastern side of the property. The removal of these parking spaces is critical to the plans as this additional space is needed for the new turn lane and landscaping buffer along Lexington Avenue North. Phase 2 includes new parking spaces along the north property line and around the rain garden that is proposed to be constructed within the old driving lane that provided access out to Lexington Avenue North. Site Data Land Use Plan: I/O - Light Industrial and Office Existing Land Use: Office Zoning: I-1 – Limited Industrial District Current Lot Sizes: 5.17 Acres Topography: Fairly Flat City Planner Streff reviewed the surrounding area and the Plan Evaluation. He provided the following Findings of Fact for review: General Findings 1. The property is located in the I-1 Limited Industrial Zoning District. 2. The lot is 226,098 square feet in size with approximate dimensions of 640 feet in width, and 350 feet in depth. 3. The property currently consists of a principal building 24,006 square feet in size and an accessory structure 1,800 square feet in size. 4. Ramsey County is proposing traffic improvements along Lexington Avenue North and County Road F West. 5. The property currently has access off of both Lexington Avenue North and County Road F West. ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 4 6. In Phase 1 of construction the access off of County Road F West and the driveway that provides access to the front of the building will be moved slightly to the west of its current location. 7. In phase 2 of construction the access off of Lexington Avenue North will be closed. 8. That the construction of Phase 1 is planned for the fall of 2014, and the construction of Phase 2 is planned to commence once the County finalizes their plans and/or begins the roadway improvement to Lexington Avenue and County Road F West. 9. The Zoning Code requires 97 parking spaces be provide on this property for this use. 10. The parking lot currently contains 277 parking spaces. 11. After completion of Phase 2 the parking lot will contain 264 parking spaces. 12. The proposed lot coverage is within the zoning district requirements. City Planner Streff stated the findings of fact for the Site Plan Review support a recommendation for approval. However, if the Planning Commission chooses to make a recommendation for denial, the Findings of Fact would need to be amended to reflect the reasons for the denial. If the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Site Plan Review, staff recommends the following seven (7) 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 exact location of the new access along County Road F shall be approved by Ramsey County and the RCWD. That all curb cuts along the County Road shall be a minimum width of twenty-six (26) feet or a maximum width of thirty-two (32) feet. 3. That 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 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 approved plan. 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. 4. That the final tree and landscaping plan shall be approved by the City before the issuance of the grading permit to ensure that the plan meets the landscaping regulations stated in Section 1325.05 of the City Code. 5. That any newly created parking space or parking area shall meet the parking regulations stated in Section 1325.05 of the City Code. 6. That a lighting and security plan shall be submitted and approved by the City and the Ramsey County Sheriff. At a minimum it shall meet the requirements stated in Section 1325.50 Subd. 3 of the City’s Zoning Code. 7. That a Grading and Erosion Control Permit shall be issued by the City before the commencement of any construction, grading or disturbance of soil within the parking lot area. City Planner Streff reviewed the options available to the Planning Commission on this matter: 1. Recommend Approval with Conditions ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 5 2. Recommend Approval as Submitted. 3. Recommend Denial 4. Table Vice Chair Thompson opened the floor to Commissioner comments. Commissioner Holewa questioned how many parking spaces were required by City Code. City Planner Streff explained that 288 parking spaces were required by Code and the applicant was requesting 264 spaces. He reviewed the site plan in further detail with the Commission. It was noted the site currently had 277 parking spaces. Commissioner Hames inquired how full the current parking lot was for this business. Nate Cote, Gradient Financial representative, explained that Gradient Financial has reviewed the parking requirements and believe that all parking needs would be met. He indicated the site has not encountered any parking concerns to date. Commissioner Jones asked how much shared/open building space the Gradient building had. City Planner Streff estimated this to be approximately 9,600 square feet. Commissioner Holewa requested further information on the work that would be completed on Lexington Avenue. Joe Lux, Ramsey County Senior Planner, reviewed the plans the County had for Lexington Avenue noting turn lanes would be added. He commented the entire surface would be redone with reinforced concrete. The project would begin next spring and should take three months to complete. He discussed how the project would be phased. Commissioner Hames moved and Commissioner Jones seconded a motion to recommend approval of Planning Case 14-030 for Site Plan Review at 4105 Lexington Avenue North based on the findings of fact and the submitted plans, as amended by the seven (7) conditions in the October 8, 2014, report to the Planning Commission. Vice Chair Thompson appreciated the detailed landscaping plan and the fact that the applicant was working with the County on their plans. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). B. Planning Case 14-031; PUD Amendment – 3200 Lake Johanna Boulevard – Public Hearing Associate Planner Bachler stated that Presbyterian Homes of Arden Hills has requested a Master and Final Planned Unit Development (PUD) Amendment for the Johanna Shores redevelopment project located at 3200 Lake Johanna Boulevard. ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 6 Associate Planner Bachler explained that in November 2010, the City Council approved a Master and Final PUD for the redevelopment of the Johanna Shores care facility at 3200 Lake Johanna Boulevard in Planning Case 10-012. This case also included the approval of a Preliminary and Final Plat and the rezoning of the property from R-2 to R-4 to bring the mix of residential uses on the property into compliance with the Zoning Code. The redevelopment project was divided into Phase I and Phase II, and also included certain utility improvements and the demolition of two existing buildings on the site. The existing McKnight Care Center has remained in its current location and will not be altered as part of the redevelopment. Associate Planner Bachler reported that Phase I of the project has largely been completed. This phase entailed the demolition of the existing Lakeview Building and the construction of a new building in its place. The new primary facility contains 162 units. The units are comprised of 72 assisted living units, 36 memory care units, and 54 independent senior apartments. At the time the Master PUD was approved, there were discussions about including four hospice units in the new Lakeview Building. However, this program was not implemented and the four units were, therefore, never constructed. Certain utility improvements on the site, including the reconstruction of an existing sanitary sewer line along the easterly frontage of Lake Johanna, were also required to be completed as part of Phase I. All of these improvements have been completed within the schedule outlined. Associate Planner Bachler stated that the second phase of the approved Master PUD includes the construction of two brownstone-style apartment buildings that would house a total of 36 independent senior apartments. These buildings were to be built on the site of the existing Sutton Place apartments. Presbyterian Homes has since demolished the Sutton Place apartment building in preparation for undertaking Phase II of the project. Construction on the brownstone apartments is expected to commence in the spring of 2015 and be completed before December 31, 2016. In conjunction with Phase II of the Master PUD, the applicant will also be undertaking road improvements along County Road D adjacent to their property as outlined in the Contract for Private Development between the City and Presbyterian Homes. Associate Planner Bachler indicated that the proposed PUD Amendment includes four separate components: • Amend the configuration of the Brownstone Buildings to be completed in Phase II. • Revise the Construction Schedule outlined in the PUD Development Agreement to reflect the delay in the expected start date on the Brownstone Buildings. • Reallocate the four hospice units that were to be constructed in the Lakeview Building to the Brownstone Buildings as independent senior units increasing the number of units in the Brownstone Buildings from 36 to 40. • Amend the conditions in the PUD Agreement to allow for the removal of the required speed bumps on the County Road D driveway if the traffic study to be completed one year following the completion of the redevelopment project supports such removal. Associate Planner Bachler commented that the layout for Phase II was altered due to challenges presented by the elevation change between the Brownstone Buildings and the primary facility. As originally proposed, the Phase II buildings would have been situated closer to the intersection of County Road D and Lake Johanna Boulevard with a large area of open space and steeper grades between them and the main building. Given the senior population that will be residing in the ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 7 buildings, the only way to mitigate this challenge would have been through constructing long and inefficient switchbacks. By reorienting the Brownstone Buildings closer to the Lakeview Building and constructing into the side of the sloping terrain, Presbyterian Homes will be able to provide entries to the buildings that are at grade and significantly closer to the main building and trail system. An additional benefit of this design change is that the buildings will be connected with a link at the garage and ground level that will better tie the buildings together visually. Along with the reconfiguration of the Brownstone Buildings, the site plan shows that the open space area and location of walkways in-between the buildings will be redesigned. Associate Planner Bachler stated that the second component of the amendment is to revise the construction schedule outlined in the PUD Development Agreement. Under the current construction schedule, Presbyterian Homes was required to begin site work for the first Brownstone Building in September 2013 and begin construction of the second Brownstone Building in March of 2014. Additionally, all final landscaping and hardscaping improvements for the property were to be completed by the spring of 2015. While Sutton Place has been demolished and the area stabilized, for efficiency reasons Presbyterian Homes does not expect to start on the construction of the Brownstone Buildings until 2015. Therefore, they are requesting that the construction schedule be amended to reflect the revised anticipated schedule. Presbyterian Homes would be required to obtain a Grading and Erosion Control Permit and commence preliminary site work for the Brownstone Buildings by December 31, 2014, and to begin construction on the buildings by June 30, 2015. All final landscaping and hardscaping improvements would need to be completed by December 31, 2016. Associate Planner Bachler explained that Presbyterian Homes is requesting that the four hospice units approved under the Master PUD for the Lakeview Building be reallocated to Brownstone Buildings as independent senior apartments. If approved, the number of units in the buildings would increase from 36 to 40. As discussed previously, the hospice units were approved for the Lakeview Building but were not constructed because a hospice program was not implemented by the organization. The space in the Lakeview Building where the hospice units were to be constructed is now being used as additional storage space for the facility and will not be used for residential purposes. This request would not increase the total of 410 dwelling units approved in the original Master PUD and the approved net density of 18.2 units per acre would remain unchanged. Associate Planner Bachler indicated that the final component of the PUD Amendment request is a revision to the conditions in the PUD Development Agreement regarding traffic calming. Presbyterian Homes is now in the process of installing three speed bumps on the County Road D driveway between the parking lot of the primary building and where the Brownstone underground parking will be located, as required by the PUD Development Agreement. The purpose of these speed bumps was to deter residents from using the County Road D access driveway and to limit the amount of traffic that would cut through Wheeler Avenue in Roseville. Presbyterian Homes has noted that the heavy use of the County Road D access has not materialized and that the City of Roseville has taken the additional step of temporarily closing off access to Wheeler Avenue from County Road D. The request is to amend the PUD Development Agreement to state that if upon the completion of the required Wheeler Avenue and County Road D Traffic Study one year after the full redevelopment of the site it is determined that the three speed bumps are not necessary for traffic calming purposes that Presbyterian Homes be permitted to remove them. ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 8 Associate Planner Bachler commented that 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. Associate Planner Bachler stated that in the original Master PUD approval, the City granted Presbyterian Homes flexibility in terms of building height and density. The maximum building height in the R-4 District is 35 feet and the Lakeview Building was permitted to be constructed at an average height of 46 feet above grade. Prior to receiving approval of the Master PUD, the Johanna Shores facility operated under two Conditional Use Permits, which granted approval for a net density of 17.6 units per acre on the property. The maximum density in the R-4 District is 12 units per acre. The Master PUD included an additional 14 units on the property, which increased the approved net density for the site to 18.2 units per acre. Site Data Land Use Plan: Public and Institutional Existing Land Use: Public and Institutional Zoning: R-4: Multiple Dwelling District Current Lot Sizes: 22.5 acres Topography: Varying topography, but generally sloping down to the north and east Associate Planner Bachler reviewed the surrounding area, the Plan Evaluation and the Traffic Review. Associate Planner Bachler provided the Findings of Fact for review: General Findings: 1. The property is located in the R-4 Multiple Dwelling District. 2. The City Council approved the Master Planned Unit Development and Final Planned Unit Development Plans for the property in Planning Case 10-012 (Resolution No. 2010-067) on November 29, 2010. 3. The PUD Development Agreement requires that any significant changes to the approved plans be reviewed by the Planning Commission and approved by the City Council. 4. The PUD process allows for flexibility within the City’s zoning regulations through a negotiated process with a developer. 5. The applicant is requesting an amendment to the approved Master and Final PUD for revised development plans for Phase II of the redevelopment project. 6. The revised development plans for Phase II of the project are in substantial conformance with the Master and Final PUD plans approved in Planning Case 10-012. 7. The applicant is requesting an Amendment to revise the Construction Schedule outlined in the PUD Development Agreement to reflect the delay in the expected start date on the Brownstone Buildings. ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 9 8. Under the revised Construction Schedule, Phase II of the project would still be completed prior to December 31, 2016, as required by the Contract for Private Development signed by and between the City and Presbyterian Homes of Arden Hills, Inc. 9. The applicant is requesting an Amendment to the approved Master and Final PUD to reallocate the four hospice units that were to be constructed in the Lakeview Building to the Brownstone Buildings as independent senior apartment units. 10. The additional four independent senior apartment units proposed for the Brownstone Buildings would not increase the 410 units and net density of 18.2 units per acre approved for the property in Planning Case 10-012. 11. The applicant is requesting an Amendment to revise the conditions in the PUD Agreement to allow for the removal of the required speed bumps on the County Road D driveway if the traffic study to be completed one year following the completion of the redevelopment project supports such removal. 12. The Master and Final PUD approved in Planning Case 10-012 are in substantial conformance with the requirements of the City’s Zoning Code. 13. Where the Master and Final PUD are not in conformance with the City’s Zoning Code, flexibility has been granted and/or conditions have been placed on the approval to mitigate the nonconformity. 14. The proposed Amendments will not result in any new nonconformity not already approved in the Master and Final PUD for the property. 15. The proposed Amendments to the Master and Final PUD are not anticipated to create a negative impact on the immediate area or the community as a whole. Associate Planner Bachler stated that based on the submitted plans and findings of fact, staff recommends approval of Planning Case 14-031 for a Master and Final Planned Unit Development Amendment for the Johanna Shores redevelopment project located at 3200 Lake Johanna Boulevard. Staff is recommending that the following sixteen (16) 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 PUD 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 building permit. 3. The Developer shall obtain a Grading and Erosion Control Permit and commence initial site work on Phase II by December 31, 2014. 4. The Developer shall obtain a building permit for Phase II by June 30, 2015, or the approval shall expire unless extended by the City Council prior to the approval’s expiration date. Extension requests must be submitted in writing to the City at least 45 days prior to the expiration date. 5. The Developer 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 building 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 PUD Development Agreement. ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 10 6. The Developer 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 building 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. 7. The Developer shall submit a financial surety in the amount of 125 percent of the estimated costs of landscaping prior to the issuance of a building 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. 8. The Developer shall submit a cash escrow in the amount of 25 percent of the estimated costs of landscaping prior to the issuance of a building 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. 9. The Developer shall provide the City with all necessary permits, including, but not limited to Rice Creek Watershed District and NPDES, prior to the iss uance of the City Grading and Erosion Control Permit. 10. The final plans shall be subject to approval by the Fire Marshall prior to the issuance of a building permit. 11. The final grading, drainage, and utility plans shall be subject to approval by the City Engineer prior to the issuance of any City permits. 12. A lighting and security plan shall be reviewed and approved by the City and the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Department prior to issuance of a building permit. 13. Upon completion of grading and utility work on the site, a grading as-built and utility as- built shall be provided to the City for review. 14. The Developer shall complete certain road improvements on Sandeen Road prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for Phase II. These road improvements shall be defined as a one and one-half inch (1-1/2”) bituminous mill and overlay between Lake Johanna Boulevard and the northern access driveway to the property. The Developer shall construct the Sandeen Road improvements at Developer’s cost and in accordance with plans and specifications approved by the City. 15. The plans and specifications for the sidewalk improvements within the County Road D right-of-way shall be subject to approval by the City. A right-of-way permit shall be obtained for all work completed within the Ramsey County right-of-way. 16. If the Developer elects to undertake the construction of the County Road D Improvements as outlined in the Contract for Private Development, the Developer must provide written notice to the City of its intent to exercise this option, which notice must be delivered before the date of any initial improvement hearing held by Roseville under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429 regarding the County Road Improvements. The Developer shall construct the County Road Improvements at Developer’s cost, in accordance with plans and specifications approved by the City, and shall substantially complete such construction by December 31, 2016. Associate Planner Bachler reviewed the options available to the Planning Commission on this matter: ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 11 1. Recommend Approval 2. Recommend Denial 3. Table Vice Chair Thompson opened the floor to Commissioner comments. Commissioner Hames thanked staff for the thorough report. Commissioner Jones requested further information on the speed bumps. Associate Planner Bachler discussed the location of the proposed speed bumps noting they would be located on the Presbyterian Homes property. Commissioner Hames questioned what the City of Roseville’s plans were for Wheeler Avenue. Associate Planner Bachler reported that Presbyterian Homes is working with the City Public Works Department to set up a meeting with the City of Roseville to discuss this matter in further detail. It was his hope that staff would have additional information prior to the Council meeting on October 27th. Pam Belz, Presbyterian Homes and Services, introduced herself to the Planning Commission and thanked them for considering the proposed project. She provided comment on the traffic study and noted the speed bumps may not be necessary due to the closure of Wheeler Avenue. Commissioner Hames recommended that any changes to the traffic calming requirements be made based on the traffic study and that it not be held up by the City of Roseville. She questioned how the building plans had changed from the original request. Ms. Belz reviewed in detail with the Commission how the buildings had changed noting the two buildings were now connected to improve access to their residents. Vice Chair Thompson opened the public hearing at 7:44 p.m. Vice Chair Thompson invited anyone for or against the application to come forward and make comment. Dave Short, 3156 Shorewood Drive, discussed how the traffic along County Road D and Shorewood Drive has increased substantially since the closure of Wheeler Avenue. He stated he would appreciate if a “Dead End” sign could be posted at the entrance to Shorewood Drive on County Road D. Annette Phillips, 3084 Shorewood Lane, provided comment on the brownstones and compared them to the buildings that were originally presented to the City. She questioned the height of the newly proposed buildings. Associate Planner Bachler reported the original units were 33 feet in height and as proposed, the maximum height would be 29 feet - 7 inches. ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 12 Tim Callahan, 3062 Shorewood Lane in Roseville, expressed concern with the amount of traffic flowing in and out of Presbyterian Homes on a daily basis. He suggested that the speed bumps remain in place given the level of traffic in this area. He was pleased that Wheeler Avenue was closed off as this kept Presbyterian Homes traffic out of the adjacent neighborhood. He recommended that the City require larger trees be planted in order to replace the trees that would be lost. He discussed the increasing impact Presbyterian Homes had on the adjacent homeowners. He did not approve of the proposed outdoor lighting and anticipated this light would wash onto his property. He feared that the homes surrounding Presbyterian Homes would continue to decrease in value. Dave Seaburg, 3104 Fairview Avenue, believed the new plan would result in the brownstone buildings being constructed too close to one another. He then expressed concern with the height of the brownstone buildings. Michelle Lacy, 3167 Shorewood Drive, provided comment on the traffic concerns along Shorewood Drive. She reported the homes in her neighborhood had only one access point since Wheeler Avenue has closed. It was her hope that the Presbyterian Homes traffic would cease flowing into her neighborhood. Peter Davitt, 3151 Shorewood Drive, was disappointed with the proposed plans for the brownstone units. He understood that Presbyterian Homes was interested in creating more units, however, he had concern with the size of the building. He commented that the new building was proposed to be 20% larger than originally requested and had 7,000+ more square feet. It was his understanding, as stated by Ms. Beekman that the original PUD was put in place to “protect” the surrounding homeowners in the future. He recommended that the brownstone building be held to its original requested size. He suggested that Presbyterian Homes be held to the landscaping plan and the promised grounds improvements. Jim Day, 3242 Sandeen Road, inquired where the Presbyterian Homes staff would be parking when 20+ spaces are lost due to the construction of the proposed brownstones. He noticed that the parking lots at Presbyterian Homes are quite full and did not want staff parking to overflow onto Sandeen Road. There being no additional comment Vice Chair Thompson closed the public hearing at 8:10 p.m. Vice Chair Thompson asked if the new brownstone units would require additional staff and parking. Ms. Belz understood staff was currently parking where the brownstone buildings on County Road D would sit. She stated that parking counts have been conducted for the entire site and all staff members can be accommodated through on-site parking. She reported that the staffing level would not be increased after the brownstone units were constructed as these would be independent living units and maintenance would be completed by current employees. Vice Chair Thompson questioned where the construction traffic would be located. Ms. Belz reported the foreman of the project would be allowed to park on site and all other construction traffic would have to seek alternative parking. ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 13 Commissioner Holewa requested additional information on the trees and fencing between Presbyterian Homes and Shorewood Drive. Ms. Belz explained that the original plan for this area within the PUD was for the trees to remain as is. However, a storm last year downed several nice trees. She reported it would be cost prohibitive to remove the cottonwood trees. She commented she was willing to work with the City to create an acceptable plan for this area. It was noted the chain link fence and buckthorn would be removed. Commissioner Holewa thanked Presbyterian Homes, along with staff for their assistance in completing the triangle parcel. Commissioner Hames questioned if the lighting plan and amount of lumens for this area had changed significantly. Associate Planner Bachler indicated that Presbyterian Homes has submitted a photometric plan and staff reviewed this plan along with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Department. There were concerns with the lighting plan and the high level of foot-candle measurements in several areas. These concerns were expressed to Presbyterian Homes and revisions are being made to the lighting plan. Staff would be verifying the revised photometric plan to insure it meets the City’s lighting requirements, as noted within Condition 12. Commissioner Holewa moved and Commissioner Zimmerman seconded a motion to recommend approval of Planning Case 14-031 for a Master and Final Planned Unit Development (PUD) Amendment for the Johanna Shores Redevelopment Project located at 3200 Lake Johanna Boulevard based on the findings of fact and the submitted plans, approving all four (4) amendments, as amended by the sixteen (16) conditions in the October 8, 2014, report to the Planning Commission. Commissioner Holewa stated he supported the four PUD amendments as recommended by staff. Commissioner Hames also supported the PUD amendments. She suggested staff be more proactive in posting “No Parking” signs on Sandeen Road and Shorewood Drive. Vice Chair Thompson appreciated the pathways and greenspace that would be created through the proposed PUD amendments. Commissioner Jones thanked the neighbors for voicing their comments and concerns this evening. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS None. REPORTS ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 14 A. Planning Commission Comments and Requests None. B. Report from the City Council Councilmember Holmes updated the Planning Commission on City Council activities from the September 8, 2014, City Council Work Session stating the City Council reviewed two concept plans presented by Roberts Management Group for the properties at 1235 Red Fox Road and 4200 Round Lake Road, also known as the Traverse Business Center site. Roberts Management Group would be proposing to develop both sites with multi-tenant light industrial buildings that would include a mix of office, manufacturing, warehousing, and retail uses. The plans presented to the City Council were only preliminary and no formal action was taken at this meeting. The City Council unanimously approved Planning Case 14-025, which was a Site Plan Review request at 3657 Snelling Avenue to construct a detached accessory garage in front of the single- family dwelling on the property. The Planning Commission recommended approval (5-0) of this case at their meeting on September 3, 2014. The City Council also unanimously approved Planning Case 14-026, which was a Variance request at 1830 Noble Road for the construction of a new single-family dwelling that would encroach 16.5 feet into the required secondary front yard setback. The Planning Commission recommended approval (5-0) of this case at their meeting on September 3, 2014. Councilmember Holmes discussed the two State of the City meetings that were held and was pleased with the attendance at this year’s events. C. TCAAP Update Community Development Director Hutmacher reported all buildings, with the exception of the steel beams in Building 502, have been wrecked to grade. Most underground utilities have been removed, and the removal of existing substations and utility poles has begun. As building slabs are removed, soil samples are being taken and submitted to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for clearance. Community Development Director Hutmacher stated the City Council has held two meetings with Gateway Planning, the zoning consultant. Drafts of the TCAAP zoning ordinance have been discussed by the City Council, and further revisions are anticipated. Additional meetings with Gateway Planning are scheduled for November 3 and 17, 2014. Community Development Director Hutmacher explained City staff, County staff, and financial consultants have been meeting with commercial and residential developers to get feedback on land values, absorption rates, and the draft zoning document. Developers are being invited to attend work session meetings to allow the City Council an opportunity to ask questions and have a direct dialogue with developers. Community Development Director Hutmacher indicated on September 8, Kent Carlson, Anderson Companies, and Todd Hanson, Cushman & Wakefield/Northmarq attended the City ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 15 Council work session. Much of the discussion centered around how to ensure that commercial development was attractive and that it was a good fit with other TCAAP development. The developers suggested that rather than limit the amount of space used for storage, the City could consider some of the following criteria: • Requirement for Class A exterior finish including windows • Limits on the number of dock doors per thousand square feet • Maximum clear height of twenty feet • Requirement for berming and/or significant landscaping in front of buildings to soften their appearance for residential drive-by traffic Community Development Director Hutmacher reported these criteria would allow manufacturers and high-tech industries to locate at TCAAP but would discourage distribution and warehouse users, which would bring a large volume of trucks but relatively few high-quality jobs. The developers believed that the site’s amenities including open space, trails, and proximity to retail and services would be attractive to users that offer high-quality jobs. Community Development Director Hutmacher commented that on September 22, 2014, representatives from Pratt Homes and Mattamy Homes attended the City Council work session. The developers provided insight into housing products desired by the market, housing characteristics including size and setbacks, and features and locations of parks and amenities. Developers advised the Council on how to have good transitions between residential and other uses and how to avoid monotony in residential development. Community Development Director Hutmacher stated based on developer comments, the City Council has directed staff to include a minimum ten-foot setback in every district to accommodate private utilities. Some districts may have greater setbacks. The City Council has also discussed allowing development to back onto park and open space areas provided that appropriate public access and views of open space are preserved. In some areas, this may not be possible depending on whether a trail can be accommodated within the water resources area or needs to be provided along an adjacent road. Community Development Director Hutmacher explained that on October 13, 2014, the City Council will discuss the JDA governance process, particularly with regard to how to balance the need for flexibility with maintaining the vision established by the City. The City Attorney and JDA Attorney are preparing information for City Council review. A brief discussion of park dedication requirements will also occur. Community Development Director Hutmacher reported the next workshop with Gateway Planning will be held at 6:00 pm (after the JDA meeting) on Monday, November 3, 2014. Planning Commissioners are invited to attend all Gateway workshops and City Council work sessions. Staff and consultants are scheduling work for the regulations and policies component of the master planning process. October 13, 2014, Special Work Session at 5:30 pm, Community Room • JDA Governance and Approval Process • Park Dedication Ordinance Discussion • Discuss Chapters 1-5 ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 16 October 20, 2014, Regular Work Session at 5:00 pm, Council Chambers • Discuss Chapter 11 (Sign Standards) • Discuss County Road H Improvements (Infrastructure) October 27, 2014, Special Work Session at 5:30 pm, Community Room (Note: EDA meeting at 6:00 pm – work session may be continued after regular meeting) • Water and Sewer System Update (Infrastructure) • Discuss Chapters 9-10 (Open Space Standards, Streetscape and Landscape Standards) November 3, 2014, Special Work Session at 6:00 pm, Council Chambers • Workshop with Gateway Planning o Discuss Chapter 8 (Street Design Standards) and Attachments o Discuss Cumulative Comments on TCAAP Zoning o Discuss Revised Master Land Use Plan Map November 10, 2014, Special Work Session at 5:30 pm, Community Room • Stormwater System Update (Infrastructure Team) November 17, 2014, Regular Work Session at 5:00 pm, Council Chambers • Final Workshop with Gateway Planning o Review entire document o Provide direction on remaining comments o Review complete Master Plan November 24, 2014, Special Work Session at 5:30 pm, Community Room • Final review of draft zoning document, future land use map, and Comprehensive Plan amendment in preparation for public hearings at December 3, 2014 Planning Commission Meeting December 1, 2014, Tentative (depending on City Council availability) Special Work Session at 6:30 pm, Community Room • Spine Road/County Road I/Thumb Road Update (Infrastructure) December 8, 2014, Special Work Session at 5:30 pm, Community Room • December Open House Meeting Preview (Infrastructure) December 15, 2014, Special Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm, Council Chambers • Approve Final Master Plan • Approve TCAAP Zoning • Approve Future Land Use Map • Approve Comprehensive Plan Amendment December 22, 2014, Special Work Session at 5:30 pm, Council Chambers • If necessary to review TCAAP zoning December 29, 2014, Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm, Council Chambers • If necessary to approve TCAAP zoning January 11, 2015, Special Work Session at 5:30 pm, Community Room ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2014 17 • Preliminary Plat Review (Infrastructure Team) January 25, 2015, Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm, Council Chambers • Receive Infrastructure Feasibility Report (Infrastructure Team) Staff anticipated that additional regular and special work session meetings will be scheduled to discuss regulations and policies, the infrastructure study, and other TCAAP issues. Future meeting topics will be defined as those dates draw nearer. Commissioner Zimmerman recommended staff speak with the Mounds View School District to discuss the impacts the development of TCAAP will have on the district. Community Development Director Hutmacher explained the school district was aware of the plans for TCAAP and was welcoming the influx of school aged children. ADJOURN Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Zimmerman, to adjourn the October 8, 2014, Planning Commission Meeting at 8:54 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).