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Home My WebLink About7A, Approve Ordinance 2008-010 ~ _ILES Request for Council Action Prepared By: James Lehnhoff, City Planner Council Meeting Date: November 24, 2008 82 Zoning District Design Standards Budgeted Amount: $0.00 Actual Amount: $0.00 Funding Source: Recommendation: 1. Approve Ordinance 2008-010 for a Definition and Design Standards Related to the 82 District as Presented in the November 24, 2008, Planning Case Report. Approve Publishing a Summary of Ordinance 2008-010. 2. Approve Ordinance 2008-011 Amending Table 1 and Subd 2.C in Section 1240.02 as Presented in the November 24, 2008, Planning Case Report. Approve Publishing a Summary of Ordinance 2008-011. Supporting Documents: A - Proposed Zoning Code Amendments - Ordinance 2008-010 B - Proposed Sign Code Amendments - Ordinance 2008-011 C - November 5, 2008, Planning Commission Minutes (DRAFT) D - November 5, 2008, Report to the Planning Commission ~ ~HILLS MEMORANDUM DATE: November 24,2008 TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: James Lehnhoff, Community Development Directo~ SUBJECT: Planning Case #: 08-028 B2 District Design Standards ATTACHMENTS: A - Proposed Zoning Code Amendments - Ordinance 2008-010 B - Proposed Sign Code Amendments - Ordinance 2008-011 C - November 5, 2008, Planning Commission Minutes (DRAFT) D - November 5, 2008, Report to the Planning Commission ReQuested Action 1. Approve Ordinance 2008-010 for a Definition and Design Standards Related to the B2 District as Presented in the November 24, 2008, Planning Case Report. Approve Publishing a Summary of Ordinance 2008-010. 2. Approve Ordinance 2008-011 Amending Table 1 and Subd 2.C in Section 1240.02 as Presented in the November 24, 2008, Planning Case Report. Approve Publishing a Summary of Ordinance 2008-011. Outline of Primary Zoninl! Code Chanl!es The zoning code changes impact three sections of the Zoning Code. The key changes are as follows (see Attachment A for full proposed code): 1. Section 1305.04 - Definitions: A definition was added for: · "Drive-up window" · "Consumer small loan establishment," which are commonly known as a "payday loan" businesses City 01 Arden Hills City Councillor November 24,2008 \ \Ahdocsl\ah\AHdata\Planning\Planning Cases \2008 \08-028 B2 Design Standards\112408 - CC Report - B2 Design Standards - revised. doc Page 1 of5 2. Section 1320 - District Provisions - The district provisions section addresses such items as the purpose of the B2 district, land uses, setbacks, lot coverage, density, and other special requirements that specifically apply to the B2 District: · Purpose - 1320.04 Subd - Updated to reflect the purpose and vision for the B2 District and sets the justification for adopting design regulations; · Land Use Chart - 1320.05 - The following changes are recommended: o Multi-family housing becomes an option in a Planned Unit Development (PUD); o Hotel/motel use becomes a conditional use from a permitted use; o Theater, indoor becomes a conditional use from a prohibited use; and, o Land reclamation, mining, and vehicle-motorized, leasing and rentals are now prohibited. · District Requirements Chart - 1320.06 - The following recommendations are being made: o Front, side, and rear setbacks were reduced to allow for development closer to the street; o Building height was increased to 50 feet to allow the potential for four full stories above ground; o The maximum density for multi-family housing was set at 20 units per acre o The lot coverage was increased to allow for more intensive use of the land but landscaping quality must also be increased. · Special Requirements for the B2 District - 1320.085 - Additional regulations that apply to the B2 District: o All new developments and significant redevelopments will be required to go through the PUD review process; o Minor improvements can be approved through an administrative review; o Tattoo parlors and "payday" loan establishments have been prohibited; o Special provisions for drive-up windows have been added; o The provisions for institutional housing as an interim use have been removed; o The previous design standards were deleted and relocated to a new section in 1325.05 Subd 8. 3. Section 1325.05 Subd 8 - Design Standards - In addition to the design regulations that already exist in the Zoning Code (e.g. parking, landscaping, fencing, lighting), the following provisions related to the review of building and site design in the B2 District have been added: · Application - This section allows some discretion on the part of the City to apply the design standards in accordance with the scale of a project (i.e. small additions to existing developments could have scaled down requirements). This would be evaluated on a case- by-case basis and subject to City Council approval. · Building Materials - The building materials section lists the types and minimum quantity of approved materials for primary and accent use. Certain accent materials would be allowed and other types of materials generally discouraged. City of Arden Hills City Councillor November 24,2008 \\Ahdocsl\ah\AHdata\Planning\Planning Cases\2008\08-028 B2 Design Standards\112408 - CC Report - B2 Design Standards - revised.doc Page 2 of5 · Building Design - The primary purpose of this section is to prohibit long expanses of architecturally uninteresting walls and to require fa<;ade treatments on all sides of a building visible to the public. · Commercial Far;ade Transparency - This section focuses on requiring transparent windows on all commercial buildings, with a focus on the primary entrance and sides facing the street. · Site Furnishings and Seating Areas - This section is intended to advance the civic and gathering space recommendations in the Guiding Plan be requiring benches, outdoor seating areas for restaurants, etc. · Parking - The parking regulations focus on moving parking to the rear of buildings and discouraging expansive parking lots. If a parking structure is constructed, the fa<;ades visible from a public street must have similar treatments to the principal building. · Traffic Study - All new developments, redevelopments, and significant modifications to a site will require a traffic study unless waived by the City Council. · Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation - As part of the development the property would be expected to complete the sidewalk. Developments would also be expected to provide a bike rack near the public entrance of buildings. At the City's discretion, the sidewalk requirement could be waived if the cost of the sidewalk is paid to the City and placed into account for future sidewalk construction. · Environmental Conservation and Sustainability - The draft 2030 Comprehensive Plan includes a chapter on environmental conservation and sustainability. This section will need additional detail in the future, but staff felt it was important to introduce it into the Zoning Code now to encourage such practices. Outline of Si2n Code Chan2es For properties along County Road E (Sign District 4), the Guiding Plan calls for signs to be more modest and in proportion to the development. The Guiding Plan also recommends against the use of pole signs in favor of monument signs. The proposed sign code amendments to Section 1240.02 Table 1 and Subd 2.C (see Attachment B for full proposed code): · Reduce the maximum area of wall signs from 60.to 50 square feet; · Reduce the maximum area of freestanding/monument signs from 80 to 50 square feet; · Reduce the maximum height of freestanding/monument signs from 22 feet to 10 feet; · Require freestanding/monument signs instead of pole signs; · Require enhanced materials for monument signs. The Sign Code amendments were not prepared in time for the Planning Commission review; however, Planning Commission review and a public hearing for sign code changes are not required. City 01 Arden Hills City Councillor November 24,2008 I IAhdocsllahlAHdatalPlanninglPlanning Cases 12008 108-028 B2 Design Standardsl112408 - CC Report - B2 Design Standards - revised.doc Page 3 of 5 Report Update A preliminary report summarizing the proposed changes to the Zoning Code was distributed on November 10, 2008. The preliminary report incorporated the recommended changes from the November 5, 2008, Planning Commission meeting. No additional changes have been made to the proposed Zoning Code since that preliminary report was released. For a more comprehensive summary of the proposed ordinance changes, please review the preliminary report or the attached November 5, 2008, report to the Planning Commission (Attachment D), which includes the existing zoning regulations for comparison. Back2:round - Guidin2: Plan for the 82 District On October 27, 2008, the City Council adopted the "Guiding Plan for the B2 District." Chapter 5 of that Plan included recommended design guidelines for development and redevelopment in the B2 District. The first primary implementation step in the Guiding Plan was to adapt the design guidelines for inclusion in the Zoning Code. Creating design regulations and adapting them to a zoning ordinance can be challenging. While people are often in agreement about the purpose and intent of design regulations, opinions on how the standards should be applied, how detailed or flexible they should be, and what counts as "good" or "bad" design can be quite variable. Design regulations often include hard standards such as height limits, building materials, minimum landscaping, etc. However, design regulations must also be flexible and promote creativity, which means that certain standards will require interpretation and some open-endedness. One of the more difficult parts of establishing design regulations is finding the balance so that design regulations are not.so strict or vague to discourage development or improvements. The proposed design regulations are not meant to design each specific building or site. Instead, the proposed regulations are meant to create a framework for design and set evaluation criteria that advance the Guiding Plan. The regulations are meant to set parameters while allowing flexibility and creativity. 8uildin2: Hei2:ht and Multi-familv Densitv As part of adding the multi-family housing use, the maximum density is tentatively proposed to have a maximum of20 units per acre (one unit per each 2,178 square feet of lot space). Due to land and development costs, a higher density will likely be needed to make a housing project viable in the B2 District. The City Code currently provides the possibility for 20 unit/acre density in the Civic Center district, though no housing currently exists irithat district. The City's planning consultant and a property owner in the B2 District have indicated that 20 units per acre may not be economically viable for housing' in this corridor and should be increased. Since City 01 Arden Hills City Councillor November 24,2008 \ \Ahdocsl\ah\AHdata\Planning\Planning Cases\2008\08-028 B2 Design Standards\112408 - CC Report - B2 Design Standards - revised. doc Page 4 of 5 housing is a new potential use, 20 units per acre may be an appropriately cautious start. If deemed necessary by the City, the density could be adjusted during the PUD process. As noted in the outline, the building height limit was increased from 35 to 50 feet. Although the Guiding Plan suggests a four story height limit, a 50 foot limit could conceivably accommodate five stories depending on the design of the building (a portion of a story could be underground). We are recommending a height limit in feet as opposed to a story limit because a height limit in feet is clearer and easier to enforce than a height limit in stories. The height of a single story in a modem building can vary depending on the design. A definition for a building story could be created, but that can also be complicated due to building needs and other design features that may be desirable. Recommendation At their meeting on November 5, 2008, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the proposed Zoning Code changes in Ordinance 2008-010. As noted above, the proposed sign code changes were not reviewed by the Planning Commission. 1. Approve Ordinance 2008-010 for a Definition and Design Standards Related to the B2 District as Presented in the November 24, 2008, Planning Case Report. Approve Publishing a Summary of Ordinance 2008-010. 2. Approve Ordinance 2008-011 Amending Table 1 and Subd 2.C in Section 1240.02 as Presented in the November 24, 2008, Planning Case Report. Approve Publishing a Summary of Ordinance 2008-011. The ordinance changes require a 3/5 vote and the publication summaries require a 4/5 vote. Attachments A - Proposed Zoning Code Amendments - Ordinance 2008-010 (Sections 1305.04 Subd 40 & 52, 1320.04 Subd 7, 1320.05, 1320.06, 1320.085, and 1325.05 Subd 8) B - Proposed Sign Code Amendments - Ordinance 2008-011 (Section 1240.02 Table 1 & Subd 2. C) C - November 5, 2008, Planning Commission Minutes (DRAFT) D - November 5, 2008, Report to the Planning Commission City of Arden Hills City Councilfor November 24,2008 \ \AhdocsJ\ah\AHdata\Planning\Planning Cases \2008\08-028 B2 Design Standards\112408 - CC Report - B2 Design Standards - revised. doc Page 5of5 Attachment A Proposed Zoning Code Amendments Ordinance 2008-010: o 1305.04 Subd 40 & 52 o 1320.04 Subd 7 o 1320.05 o 1320.06 o 1320.085 o 1325.05 Subd 8 ~ ~HILLS November 24, 2008 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 CITY OF ARDEN HILLS COUNTY OF RAMSEY STATE OF MINNESOTA ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE DEFINITIONS, PURPOSE, LAND USE CHART, DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS CHART, SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS, AND DESIGN STANDARDS FOR THE B-2: GENERAL BUSINESS DISTRICT The Arden Hills City Council hereby ordains that Sections 1305.04 Subd 40 and 52 shall be added and subsequent subdivisions renumbered accordingly; Sections 1320.04 Subd 7, 1320.06, 1320.07, 1320.085 and its subdivisions are hereby amended and repealed; and Section 1325.05 Subd 8 is hereby added to the Arden Hills City Code to read as follows: 1305.04 Definitions. Subd. 40 Consumer Small Loan Establishment. Any establishment that offers consumer small loans, commonly referred to as "payday loans," as defined in Minnesota State Statute 47.60 as amended from time to time. Subd.52 Drive-up Window. A window or other opening at a business establishment that allows customers to purchase and/or receive a service or product without having to enter the building. 1320.04 Purpose of Districts. Subd.7 B-2 General Business District A. To be a place in which people can live, work and play. B. To create a compact, architecturally diverse, pedestrian- and bicycle- friendly community with a distinct identity. C. To provide a connected sidewalk system and places for people to gather and socialize. D. To implement design standards to promote an attractive environment with lasting and sustainable value. E. To group compatible retail and service business uses that tend to draw trade that is naturally interchangeable and promotes business prosperity. F. To provide an adequate supply of businesses and professional service areas to meet the needs of the residents. G. To minimize the effects of traffic congestion, noise, odor, glare and similar safety problems. H. To implement the Plan known as the "Guiding Plan for the B2 District," which was adopted by the City Council on October 27, 2008. 1 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 2 >< W -J ~ ,'11"': : .If, :: ~ It : Jr,: ~ :' II, I 'Jt: CD dJ ofC () , n" () ,n .q- cO ofC ('t) cO ofC C\I cO ' II' II ~ ,u', cO :It CD Z ~ ~ ('t) ~ * C\I ~ ~ ,.d U 00 ~ 'S ~ (]) S (]) = ~ .~ ~ ~ = I (]) QO = ~ = ~ N U 0 .;::: ~ z 00 .~ ~ Q u ~ \0 Z Q ~ d ~ N ~ ~ 0 ~ o ci C\I u5 ~ ~ (!) 8 (!) ~ .S ~. ~~ ~ OJ) (!) .~ ~~ ~gf ~ .~ c.8::a -q- .S ~~ ON N "- M ~ ~ ~ I c\S r--...~M 0000 o~o N~~ M(])~ ~ 00 ~ 00 ~ ~ ~ U.9 o 0 ~ .,z:j ~ ~ U~r./J (!) .~ r./J~(!) (!) ~ (!) (!)~r./J r./J * * * * * * M ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 1320.085 Special Requirements for the B-2 General Business District. The B-2 General Business District encompasses a primary gateway into the City. The aesthetic and transportation impacts from new developments and redevelopments must be evaluated to help ensure the long-term viability and success of the B-2 District. Accomplishing the purpose of the B-2 District requires particular concern for the design of buildings, site features (such as landscaping, lighting, and signage), site layout, building materials, site design, and other related design elements. To that end, new development and redevelopment shall conform to the standards in this and related zoning requirements. The "Guiding Plan for the B2 District" shall act as a guide for development but is not part of the Zoning Code. In reviewing and approving land use applications, the City Council shall make the final determination on the compatibility and consistency with all provisions in this and related sections of the Zoning Ordinance. Subd. 1 Procedure. To further accomplish the stated purpose of the B2 District, the following procedures shall be used: A. Proposals for new construction, redevelopment of a site, and significant modifications to existing sites shall use the Planned Unit Development (PUD) process. The PUD proposal shall identify any requested modifications from the applicable zoning requirements and from the "Guiding Plan for the B2 District" as well as the reasons why the modifications would be in the public interest and would be consistent with the purpose of the B-2 District. Modifications to these requirements may be granted by the City without a variance through the PUD process. Conditional use permits may also be required for uses list in Section 1320.05. B. Conditional Use Permits, Site Plans, and other development agreements that were approved for development sites before November 24, 2008, shall remain in effect but shall use the Planned Unit Development Process for future site amendments. C. The following items shall not be considered significant modifications to an existing site and shall be exempt from the PUD process but shall be subject to administrative review and approval: 1. Internal alterations to buildings that do not result in a change to the building height, roof line, or footprint unless the changes will have a notable increase in traffic and/or parking needs as determined by the Community Development Director or their designee; 2. Replacement, maintenance, or repair of existing materials, including exterior finishes, signage, landscaping, and parking lots; 4 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 3. Minor modifications to the exterior of a building or a site that substantially conforms to the design standards in Section 1325 and has no discemable impact on traffic as determined by the Community Development Director or their designee; D. The provisions in this Section may be modified by the City Council to allow planning flexibility without the need for a variance to encourage cooperative dialogue between the applicant and the City. Minor improvements to existing uses should be encouraged without costly upgrades or complete changes to a site. Subd.2 Uses. A. Permitted uses (as specified in the Land Use Chart, Section 1320.05, for the B-2 District) that occupy existing buildings do not require a conditional use permit prior to occupancy. Other city permits may be required. B. Conditional uses (as specified in the Land Use Chart, Section 1320.05, for the B-2 District) require an approved conditional use permit prior to occupancy. Other city permits may be required. C. The following land uses are not compatible with the stated purpose of the B-2 District and shall be prohibited: 1. Individual retail businesses larger than 50,000 square feet except for Sports and Fitness Clubs. ,2. Open sales, rental or storage lots, including but not limited to cars, buses, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, recreational vehicles, trailers, boats, mobile homes, machinery, lumber, building materials, and similar items. Approved open air garden centers shall be exempt. 3. Mini-storage facilities; 4. Tattoo parlors; 5. Consumer Small Loan establishments; 6. Outdoor bulk storage buildings, including but not limited to, forest, metal, concrete, agricultural and petroleum products, chemicals and similar products; and, 7. Manufacturing or processing that generates hazardous waste without a valid Hazardous Waste Generator's license from the Ramsey County Public Health Department. 5 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 Subd. 3 Special Regulations for Drive-up Windows, Drive-in Businesses and Fast Food Restaurants. Section 1325.04 of the Zoning Ordinance specifies additional requirements for drive-in businesses, fast food restaurants, and automobile service stations. For the purposes of the B2 District, these regulations shall also apply to drive-up windows. The provision whereby the proximity requirement of one thousand three hundred and twenty (1,320) feet between drive-in businesses, fast food restaurants, and drive-up windows may be waived if the following conditions are met as determined by the City Council: A. The architectural treatment, circulation plan, and signage system of such businesses shall be designed to visually and functionally integrate the building and the site on which it is located. B. The applicant shall submit a circulation plan that demonstrates that the use will not interfere or reduce the safety of non-motorized movements, specifically pedestrian and bicyclists. ~. Requested modifications to the provisions in section 1325.04 shall be stated in writing along with an explanation of why the modifications would be in the public interest and would be consistent with the purpose of the B-2 District. Subd. 4 Hotel/Motel Additional Conditional Use Permit Criteria. In addition to meeting the requirements of Section 1345 and 1355.04 Subd 3, hotel/motels shall conform to the following: A. Meet building code requirements; B. Entrance to each room shall be from an indoor corridor; C. Landscaping shall be brought into conformance with section 1325.05 Subd 1. Subd.5 Design Standards. The standards in section 1325 shall apply. 1325.05 Design Standards. The standards established in this section are designed to encourage a high standard of development by providing assurances that neighboring land uses and neighboring properties will be compatible. The standards shall also apply to all future development and shall apply to existing development where so stated. Before any applications for development or construction under the City Code are approved, it shall be determined that the proposal will be in conformance with these standards unless a deviation has been granted. It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to demonstrate such conformance. Revised April 28, 2008. Subd. 8 Additional Design Standards for New Development, Redevelopment, and Modifications to Existing Sites in the B2 District. Unless preempted by the standards in this section, all other zoning provisions shall apply: 6 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 A. Purpose and Intent. The purpose of these additional design standards is to promote a high level of architectural, landscaping, and site design in this business district of Arden Hills. The City seeks to create a unified, harmonious, and high- qu.ality environment to foster a distinct, positive, and successful image for the City. The criteria by which new development, redevelopment, and site modifications in this District shall be judged are as follows: 1. Consistency with provisions of the comprehensive plan and other guiding plans as amended from time to time; provisions of the zoning ordinance and subdivision ordinance; and all other applicable regulations. 2. Use of appropriate materials, lighting, textures, colors, and architectural and landscape forms to create a unified, high-quality design concept for each site that is compatible with adjacent and neighboring structures and functions. 3. Creation of unified site designs, each with a sense of internal order, that provide desirable environments for site users and visitors and the community as a whole and that consider all site elements. 4. Provision of safe and adequate access from public streets to sites giving ample consideration to the location and number of access points, the safety and convenience of merging and turning movements, and traffic management and mitigation. 5. Provision of on-site vehicular, bicycling, and pedestrian circulation by way of interior drives, parking areas, pathways, and walkways adequate to handle anticipated needs and to safety buffer pedestrians and cyclists from motor vehicles. Ample consideration shall be given to the width of interior drives, internal traffic movement and flow, separation of pedestrian, cycling, automobile; and delivery traffic, and the safe, convenient, and practical arrangement of parking spaces. B. Application. The standards in this Section should apply only to the building or site elements being developed or altered (i.e. a proposal for changes to a building would be required to meet only those standards that pertain to buildings while changes to a parking area would be required to meet the standards for parking areas but not for buildings). The design standards shall be applied proportionately to the degree of change proposed. Upon recommendation from the Planning Commission, the City Council may waive specific design standards based on the scale of the project. The City Council shall make the final determination on the compatibility and consistency with the design standards. 7 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 C. Architectural Style and Building Character. Evaluation of the appearance of a project shall be based on the quality of its design and on its relationship to its surroundings. Site characteristics to be evaluated for this purpose include, but are not limited to, building and landscaping materials, colors, textures, shapes, massing, building components, height, roof-line, and setback. Monotony of design, both within projects and between projects and its surrounding, is prohibited. Variation in detail, form, and arrangement shall provide visual interest. Architectural style should not be restricted. D. Building Materials. Buildings shall be constructed of materials that are enduring, timeless, and well-detailed. 1. At least seventy-five percent (75%) of the exterior building materials shall be of brick, stone, decorative concrete plank, transparent glass or any combination thereof. 2. Trim and other accent or decorative features may be metal, wood, or EIFS. Other high-quality materials that increase the variety and appeal of buildings may be considered as accents. Metals shall have a matte finish and neutral or earth tone colors. Metals that are used on exterior walls shall have visible comer moldings and trim. 3. Undesirable materials shall include simulated brick or stone, vinyl or aluminum siding, sheet metal, corrugated metal, concrete blocks, materials that have no pattern or relief when applied to large walls, brightly colored metal roofing or canopies, and pre-cast tilt-up walls. Extensive use of mirrored or tinted glass on the first floor and materials that represent corporate colors or trademarks that are not in conformance with approved building materials are also undesirable. E. Building Design. The arrangement, geometry, massing, materials and colors shall work to create a high quality development that is responsive to existing buildings, site features, and site design on adjoining sites in the district. 1. At least fifty percent (50%) of the largest building on each site shall be constructed at the front setback line. 2. Fa9ade treatment shall be carried around all sides. Architectural elements such as, but not limited to, windows, shutters, awnings, doors, masonry exterior veneers, cornice detailing, window casings, and other architectural details should demonstrate consistency on all sides of the structure that are reasonably visible to the general public. Plain flat walls shall not be permitted when viewable from the public right-of-way or public areas. 8 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 3. To avoid long unbroken expanses and to increase visual interest from the street, buildings of more than 40 feet in width shall be divided into smaller increments (between 20 and 40 feet) through articulation of the facades to convey the impression of individually-constructed small storefronts or, in the case of housing, housing units. This can be achieved through the combination of the following techniques: a. The use of windows and doors; b. Fayade modulation-stepping backward or forward or extending a portion of the fayade; c. Vertical divisions into storefronts with separate display windows and entrances; d. Recesses and projections such as porches, dormers and bays that create shadows and add visual interest; e. Variation in the rooflines by using multiple roof and ridge lines perpendicular to one another, offsetting single roof lines, stepped roofs; f. Providing a lighting fixture, trellis, tree, or other landscape feature with each interval. 4. Awnings or overhangs shall be provided at entryways to provide shelter from the sun and rain. The awnings shall be opaque so as not to. create a glowing effect with lights under the awnings. Awnings shall be constructed of durable, protective, and water repellant material; however, plastic or fiberglass awnings shall not be permitted. 5. Any multi-level building shall distinguish the ground floor level from the upper floors by use of any or a combination of these techniques: an intermediate cornice line, difference in building materials or details, awnings trellis or arcade, special window details, or brick corbels or quoins. A strong base and top for multi-story buildings shall be established; middle layers shall be simpler. Detail shall be an integral part of the architecture rather than a series of applied elements. 6. Franchise architecture identified with a particular chain shall be discouraged unless it is architecturally integrated into the district and conforms to these design standards. 9 7. Entrances shall have convenient access to the street frontage and to parking serving the use. For those properties along County Road E, access to the street frontage shall be given priority where feasible. ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 F. Commercial Fayade Transparency. 1. Fifty percent (50%) of the first level fayade that includes the primary store entrance and/or faces a public street shall be made of transparent windows and doors that are recessed at least one inch rather than being flush with the fayade. If the building is a one story design and the first floor elevation exceeds twelve (12) feet, then only the first twelve (12) feet shall be included in calculating the fayade area. 2. At least twenty percent (20%) of the remaining sides that are reasonably visible to the public shall be window coverage, half of which may be simulated windows (i.e. spandrel glass). If additional transparent glass is used on the remaining sides, the City may consider a proportional reduction in the transparent window and door requirement on the primary store entrance and/or public street fayades: 3. For buildings with a use or function that does not readily allow windows (e.g. cooler or freezer areas, mechanical rooms, security areas, storage areas) the transparent window standards may be reduced at the discretion of the City Council. However, the architectural detailing must be provided by the use of upper level windows, which may include the partial use of simulated windows, or architectural detailing that provides arches, patterning, recesses, and shadowing that provide aesthetic interest. Architectural detailing may include such things as change in materials, change in color and other significant visual relief provided in a manner or at intervals in keeping with the size, mass, and scale of the wall. G. Building Color. Colors shall be harmonious. Building colors shall consist of muted colors with low reflectance. Recommended colors include browns, grays, tans, beiges, and dark or muted green, blues, and reds. Bright or brilliant colors and sharply contrasting colors may be used for only accent purposes occupying a maximum of five percent (5%) of building fayades. H. Fences. Fences shall blend into the landscape, be compatible with other materials used on site, and be made of a material that minimizes corrosion. Finished and treated wood, brick, stone or wrought iron is encouraged. I. Signs. 10 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 1. Business signs shall be architecturally compatible with the style, composition, materials, colors and details of the building and should be an integral part of the building. Signs shall be incorporated into the fayades of the buildings rather than extending past the roof line and should not project more than twelve (12) inches beyond the plane of the fayades. Retail business wall signs shall be located in a position above the front window that is located consistently among stores. 2. All other provisions in Chapter 12, Sign Code, shall apply. J. Site Furnishings and Seating Areas. 1. Site furnishings shall be provided based on the scale of the project. The site furnishings may be spread out on the site or clustered to provide a more formal area. Placing site furnishings near landscaped areas is encouraged. These areas may be shared by multiple tenants on a property or adjacent properties and may include tables, chairs, benches, plantings, and other outdoor amenities such as a plaza. These areas shall be maintained for year round use. Creativity is highly encouraged. These spaces shall be connected to the sidewalk system. 2. Benches and decorative plantings shall be provided near the pnmary entrance of all buildings on a site. 3. Restaurants shall include a functional outdoor seating area with tables, chairs, plantings, and access to the restaurant. 1. No outdoor seating shall be permitted in any portion of the public sidewalks where normal pedestrian traffic flow is obstructed. 2. The outdoor seating area shall not be used for exterior storage when the area is not in use. While such area is in operation, all tables and chairs shall be kept in a clean, sanitary condition. 3. These areas shall be distinguished with decorative fencing and/or plantings. 4. If alcoholic beverages are served, the establishment shall take reasonable steps to insure that alcoholic beverages are consumed only by patrons of the establishment who are of age. All other provisions related to the license to serve alcohol shall apply. K. Screening. 11 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 1. Trash and recycling equipment, materials, and containers shall be fully enclosed and integrated into the architecture of the buildings. 2. All mechanical equipment, whether roof-mounted or ground-mounted should be integrated into the architecture of the building. It shall be completely screened from the ground-level view of adjacent properties and public streets. Wood screening shall not be permitted. 3. Truck docks and delivery areas shall face away from the public street and shall be integrated into the architecture of the building. L. Landscaping. A generous amount of plant material and landscaping shall be used on all new development and redevelopment sites. Office parking areas shall include a generous amount of perimeter and internal landscaping. Parking structures shall be visually softened with plantings. A minimum of one tree shall be placed along the right-of-way every forty (40) feet. The tree shall not interfere with the roadway and shall be on private property. M. Parking. 1. Placing parking between the street right-of-way and a building shall be discouraged. 2. No more than fifty percent (50%) of the parking on a site may be between buildings or in the side yards. 3. Sufficient parking shall be provided to accommodate the reasonable hourly peak on a given site. Shared parking is encouraged to reduce land devoted to parking. Hourly variations among different types of land use may be considered when estimated parking demands. 4. Plantings shall be used to soften and shade parking lots and parking structures. Parking and service areas shall be visually screened from street views with plantings and architectural treatments. 5. Parking lot islands shall be used to distribute large parking fields into separate "outdoor" rooms that have visual relationship to the buildings they serve. Parking lot islands shall be planted with trees or include infiltration basins and plantings. Entry drives shall be defined by trees and shrubs. 6. A concrete curb shall be provided around the periphery of all parking lots and access roads, except where the City Engineer determines that a curb would impede drainage. 12 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 7. Parking adjacent to streets should be screened from views with landscaping, including but not limited to trees, hedges, flowers and other bushes and/or decorative masonry walls. Berms shall be discouraged. 8. Parking structures that are visible from off the site shall display an integration of building materials building form, textures, architectural motif, and building colors with the principal building. No signs other than directional signs shall be permitted on parking ramp facades. N. Traffic Study. A traffic study shall be required for all new developments, redevelopments, and significant modifications to existing sites unless waived by the City Council. O. Lighting. Exterior lighting shall be provided for the safety and convenience of occupants and visitors. 1. A lighting plan shall be submitted that shows location, type of illumination and design. A photometric analysis of site and building shall be submitted for City approval with all new construction or redevelopment projects. 2. Exterior lighting shall be consistent in type, design, scale, and color to create unity in the B-2 District. High-pressure sodium lighting and other similar types of lighting color may be required by the City to promote a unified lighting color throughout the B-2 District. Other lighting colors may be considered during the City review process. 3. Exterior lighting for parking lots and buildings shall not be excessive and shall be directed at their intended purposes. 4. Lighting under a gasoline station canopy shall not be directly visible from the street but shall be recessed into the canopy or otherwise shielded. 5. Light washing of buildings and accent lighting may be permitted through the City review process provided that it does not negatively impact residential areas or traffic safety and is complementary to the district as a whole. P. Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation. Pedestrian and bicycle improvements shall be installed in accordance with the City of Arden Hills Comprehensive Plan and the local guiding plan and shall be in conformance with the following: 1. Site design shall facilitate pedestrian connections and mobility within and between building, sites, and uses by providing clear visual indicators through door placement, signage, striping, raised pathways, and integrating 13 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 landscaping components. Other features or materials may be considered that enhance and provide a safe pedestrian experience. 2. A sidewalk shall link the primary entrance of each building on site with the public sidewalk network. In the event a building is subdivided into multiple separated tenant spaces, a sidewalk must link the primary entrance of each separated tenant space with the public sidewalk network. 3. Bike racks shall be required near a public entrance of all buildings. 4. Internal sidewalk systems shall connect with adjacent planned or developed public sidewalks or trails. 5. The grades of all walks, parking spaces, terraces, and other paved areas shall conform to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. 6. Where there is new building construction or renovation where the renovation value is thirty percent (30%) or more of the pre-renovation value of the structure, a minimum six foot concrete sidewalk adjacent to or in all rights-of-way shall be provided. The location of the sidewalk shall be prescribed by the Public Works Director. The new sidewalks shall connect to sidewalks on adjacent properties if they exist. At the discretion of the City Council, the property owner may, in lieu of constructing the sidewalk, pay the City an amount equal to the cost of constructing the sidewalk to satisfy the obligations of this section. Said payment shall be used by the City to further maintain and construct the pathway system within the City. 7. When there is more than one building on a site, a sidewalk must link the primary building entrances of each building to one another. Q. Drainage/Water Management Plan: A plan must be submitted with each project or lot development in the B-2 District. The plan must be approved by the Rice Creek Watershed District, other agencies as required, and the engineer assigned by the City. Two or more lots or projects may coordinate their plans for their mutual benefit. R. Environmental Conservation and Sustainability. The City encourages the use of green materials and environmentally friendly construction and site design such as the use of pervious surfaces, green rooftops, energy efficient materials, LEED standards, and other green building techniques. 14 ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective the day following its publication. Adoption Date. Passed by the City Council of the City of Arden Hills the 24th day of November, 2008. STAN HARPSTEAD, MAYOR ATTEST: RONALD J MOORSE CITY ADMINISTRATOR Publication Date: December 3, 2008 15 CITY OF ARDEN HILLS COUNTY OF RAMSEY STATE OF MINNESOTA SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 2008-010 On the 24th day of November, 2008, the Arden Hills City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2008-010, and by at least four/fifths affirmative votes pursuant to Minn. Stat. ~412.191, Subd. 4, directed that a summary of Ordinance 2008-010 be published. Chapter 13, Sections 1305.04 Subd 40 and 52, Subd 1320.04 Subd 7, 1320.05, 1320.06, 1320.085, and 1325.05 Subd 8 and related paragraphs are collectively known as Ordinance 2008- 010 entitled "An Ordinance Amending the Definitions, Purpose, Land Use Chart, District Requirements Chart, Special Requirements, and Design Standards for the B-2: General Business District." The primary purpose of these Zoning Code additions, amendments, and deletions is to implement design standard~ for the B-2 General Business District. A full copy of Ordinance 2008-010 is available for inspection by any person during regular business hours at the office of the City Administrator, 1245 West Highway 96, Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112. The Ordinance is also available online at http://www.ci.arden- hills.mn.us. BLACK LINE VERSION TO SHOW CHANGES TO SECTION 1320 To help show the proposed changes to Section 1320 of the Zoning Code, a black line version of the changes showing additions has been included. Since the additions to Sections 1320.04 and 1325.05 Subd 8 are new, there is not a black line version. 1320.085 Special Requirements for the B-2 General Business District. The B-2 General Business District encompasses the--a primary commercial gateway into the City. TIIC aesthetic and trans.poliation inlpacts fronl new developluents and re(levelo~pmen.ts In.ust be evaluated to hel.p ensure the long-tenn viability and. success of tIle B-2 District. Accomplishing the purpose of the B-2 District requires particular concern for the design of buildings, site features (such as landscaping, lighting, and signage), site layout, building materials, aH:d-site design. The traffic and 'visual impacts from ne~yTyT de~/elopments and rede~/elopments must be e~/aluated to help ensure the long term ~/iability and success of the B 2 General Business District. "and other related desigtl clc:ments. To that cl1.d" :ncw dcvelop:mcnt and redcvcloplnent shall cOIlfom1. to tIIC stan.dar(ls in. this and related zon.in.g requirenlents. TIle "GuidiIlg Plan for the B2 District" shall act as a guide for development but is not part of the Zoning Code. In reviewing and approvillg land llse applications" the City COUI1Cil sIlalllnake the final detemlinatioll on the con1.pati11ility and consistency vvith. all provisio.ns in tIlis and related sectio:ns of th.c Zonin.g Ordinance. Subd. 1 Procedure. To further accomplish the stated purpose of the B2 District" the following.procedures shall be used: A. Proposals for new construction" redevelopment of a site" and significant modifications to existing sites shall use the Planned Unit Development (PUD) process. The PUD proposal shall identify any requested modifications from the applicable zoning requirements and from the "Guiding Plan for the B2 District" as well as the reasons why the modifications would be in the public interest and would be consistent with the purpose of the B-2 District. Modifications to these requirements may be granted by the City without a variance through the PUD process. Conditional use permits may also be required for uses list in Section 1320.05. B. Conditional Use Permits" Site Plans" and other development agreements that were approved for development sites before November 24" 2008" shall remain in effect but shall use the Planned Unit Development Process for future site amendments. C. The following items shall not be considered significant modifications to an existing site and shall be exempt from the PUD process but shall be subiect to administrative review and approval: 1 1. Internal alterations to buildings that do not result in a change to the building height" roof line" or footprint unless the changes will have a notable increase in traffic and/or parking needs as determined by the Community Development Director or their designee: BLACK LINE VERSION TO SHOW CHANGES TO SECTION 1320 2. Replacement" maintenance" or repair of existing materials" including exterior finishes" signage" landscaping" and parking lots: 3. Minor modifications to the exterior of a building or a site that substantially conforms to the design standards in Section 13.25 and has no discernable impact on traffic as determined by the Community Development Director or their designee: D. The provisions in this Section may be modified by the City Council to allow planning flexibility without the need for a variance to encourage cooperative dialogue between the applicant and the City. Minor improvements to existing uses should be encouraged without costly upgrades or complete changes to a site. Subd.2 Uses. A. Permitted uses (as specified in the Land Use Chart" Section 1320.05" for the B-2 District) that occupy existing buildings do not require a conditional use permit prior to occupancy. Other city permits may be required. B. Conditional uses (as specified in the Land Use Chart" Section 1320.05" for the B-2 District) require an approved conditional use permit prior to occupancy. Other city permits may be required. C. The following land uses are not compatible with the stated purpose of the B-2 District and shall be prohibited: 1. Individual retail businesses larger than 50,,000 square feet except for Sports and Fitness Clubs. 2. Open sales" rental or storage lots" including but not limited to cars" buses" trucks" motorcycles" bicycles" recreational vehicles" trailers" boats" mobile homes" machinery" lumber" building materials" and similar items. Approved open air garden centers shall be exempt. 3. Mini-storage facilities: 4. Tattoo parlors: 2 BLACK LINE VERSION TO SHOW CHANGES TO SECTION 1320 5. Consumer Small Loan establishments: 6. Outdoor bulk storage buildings'! including but not limited to'! forest'! metal'! concrete'! agricultural and petroleum products'! chemicals and similar products: and'! 7. Manufacturing or processing that generates hazardous waste without a valid Hazardous Waste Generator's license from the Ramsey County Public Health Department. Subd. 3 Procedure. The follo"vving procedures shall apply to all ne"v~/ construction, modification of a building(s), and modification of a property "vvithin the B 2 District: .L^:t... The application and the administrative and re";ievl procedure established in Section 1355.04 Subd 3 and Subd 5, Conditional Use Permit and Site Plan Re"/ie:,vv, and in .L^:t..ppendix A, Procedural1fanual, shall be follo\ved for all de"/elopment(s) that: 1. Invol";es ne"vv building construction or alterations that increase the capacity or square footage of the building; 2. 110difies a building's exterior but does not conform to the pro";isions in this Section as determined by the Zoning .L^:t..dministrator; 3. 1fodifies the site or use in such a "vvay that notabl)T increase traffic and/or alters traffic patterns as determined by the Zoning .L\dministrator and engineer designated by the City; 4. Reduces parkjng spaces belo"v"/ the minimum requirement for the uses on the propert~y; 5. .L\dds more than ten (10) parlcing spaces; 6. Reduces the net landscaped area; 7. Installs additional lighting poles or lighting sources (but not replacement of existing lighting fixtures). B. 110difications to building or properties not listod in abo~/e one through se~/en shall not require a conditional use permit or site plan re~l.rievl unless the change is deemed significant b)T the Zoning .L^:t..dministrator or Building Official. 3 BLACK LINE VERSION TO SHOW CHANGES TO SECTION 1320 C. The prescribed procedures or standards in this Section may be modified by the Cit)T Council to allo\Tl planning flexibility and to encourage cooperatiT/e dialogue betTyveen the applicant and the City. Subd.2. Permitted uses (as specified in the Land Use Chart, Section 1320.05, for the B 2 District) that OCCUP)T eJcisting buildings do not require a conditional use permit except in those cases Tyvhere Section 1320.01 Subd 9..L^oL.l 7 apply. Subd. 3. Conditional uses (as specified in the Land Use Chart, Section 1320.05, for the B 2 District) require an approT/ed conditional use permit prior to occupanC)T. 1fodifying a building or site as listed in Section 1320.085 Subd 1..L^oL.1 7 shall also require a conditional use permit and site plan revieTyT/. Subd. 4. Interim uses (as specified in the Land Use Chart, Section 1320.05, for the B 2 District) require an approT/ed interim use permit prior to issuance of an occupancy or building. permit. Modif)1ng a building or site as listed in Section 1320.085 Subd 1.toL.1 7 shall also require a conditional use permit and site plan reT/ieTyT/. .Lidded .L1pril 28, 2008 Subd. 5. Planned Unit Developments. To further accomplish the stated purpose of the B 2 District, deTlelopers are encouraged to plan their sites in the spirit of the purpose and intent of the Planned Unit DeT/elopment proT/ision in Section 1320.14. If a Planned Unit DeTlelopment application is submitted, the Planned Unit DeT/elopment proposal shall identify modifications to the standard zoning requirements otherv/ise applicable to the site and the reasons TyT{hy the modifications Tllould be in the public interest and TyT{ould be consistent \vith the purpose of the B 2 District. Subd. 6. Design Guidelines. NeTyv construction and redeT/elopment of properties shall adhere to the folloTl/ing design requirements. toL.Building Exteriors, Site Features, and Site De:yelopment. (i) The arrangement, geometry, massing, materials and colors shall TyT/orlc to create a high qualit)T deT/elopment that is responsiT/e to existing buildings, site features, and site design on adjoining sites in the district. (ii) Exterior building materials shall be primarily of briel" stone, glass or an)T combination thereof, except trim and other accessory or decoratiT/e features ma)T be metal, Tyvood, or EIFS. (iii) Sheet metal, corrugated metal, and plain flat concrete block (painted or not) shall not be permitted as exterior finishes. 4 BLACK LINE VERSION TO SHOW CHANGES TO SECTION 1320 (iv) Design elements on all sides of a building shall be compatible --l/ith the front ele'vation and/or adjacent buildings. l\rchitectural elements such as, but not limited to, \'lindo--.~ls, shutters, a\'lnings, doors, musonry exterior ~/eneers, cornice detailing, --.~/indo"',:v casings, and other architectural details should demonstrate consistency on all sides of the structure that are reasonabl)' visible to the general public. Plain flat \~lalls shall not be permitted "'.~lhen ~{ie--l.'able from the public right of "'.\'ay or public areas. (~/) Buildings containing office and retail uses shall maintain t--.~{enty percent (20~~) minimum \\'indo".~l CO~lerage on each floor that faces a street or public open space. l\firror glass/fu9ade glazing/spandrel glass/fauJ{~ --.~/indo".~ls shall not constitute more than fifty percent (50~~) of the required "l/indo".~l area. B.Fences. (i) No barbed ".~lire, razor ".~;ire, or spikes allo\~/ed. (iii) ~A~ll other requirements of Section 1325.05 Subd 4 must be follo\~led. C.Screening. (i) ~\ll mechanical equipment, "l/hether roof mounted or ground mounted, shall be completely screened from vie\\' of adjacent properties and public streets, or designed to be compatible "l/ith the architectural treatment of the principal building. .\I/ood screening shall not be permitted. (ii) Trash and recycling equipment and materials shall be screened from public ~lie\~l and adjacent properties v/ith an enclosure that is constructed of the same materials and colors as the principle building. \V ood fencing shall not be permitted. 5 BLACK LINE VERSION TO SHOW CHANGES TO SECTION 1320 (iii) Loading docks shall be screened from public Vle'yTI or integrated into the building's architecture so as to reduce their T/isual impact. Subd. 7 Lighting. Exterior lighting shall be proTlided for the safety and conT/enience of occupants and T/isitors. A. A lighting plan shall be submitted that shoTyT/S location, type of illumination and design. /\. photometric analysis of site and building shall be submitted for City appro'val Ty"flith all ne\v construction or rede'/elopment projects. B. Exterior lighting shall be consistent in type, design, scale, and color to create unit)T in the B 2 District. High pressure sodium lighting and other similar types of lighting color may be required by the Cit)T to promote a unified lighting color throughout the B 2 District. Other lighting colors may be considered during the Cit)T revie"f,v process. D. Light Ty"vashing of buildings and accent lighting may be permitted through the City reT/ieTvv process proTlided that it does not negatiTlely impact residential areas or traffic safet)T and is complementar)T to the district as a Ty"f/hole. Subd. 8 Pedestrian Circulation. .L^~ll ne\"fl de:velopment and redeT/elopment TyTlithin the District shall install pedestrian improT/ements in accordance TyTlith the Cit)T of .L^~rden Hills Comprehensi\Tc Plan and an)T other supplementary side',Tlallc or trail plans. Other pedestrian sideTy"f/alks and trails may be required by the City. .L^~. Site design shall facilitate pedestrian connections and mobilit)T \T/ithin and bet\T/een building, sites, and uses b)T providing clear visual indicators through door placement, signagc, and integrating landscaping components. B. The city may require bilce raclcs; raclcs must be placed to not impede pedestrian circulation. c. Internal side\Tlallc systems shall connect Tl/ith adjacent planned or de~leloped public side\Tlalks or trails. 6 BLACK LINE VERSION TO SHOW CHANGES TO SECTION 1320 Subd. 10 Prohibited Uses. Some land uses are not compatible \vith the stated purpose of the B 2 District. The follo\:ving uses are therefore prohibited: A. Open sales, rental or storage lots, including but not limited to cars, buses, trucles, motorcy:cles, bicycles, recreational vehicles, trailers, boats, mobile homes, machinery, lumber, building materials, and similar items. B. l\fini storage facilities. C. Outdoor bulle storage buildings, including but not limited to, forest, metal, concrete, agricultural and petroleum products, chemicals and similar products. D. l\fanufacturing or processing that generates hazardous \T/aste \T/ithout a 'valid Hazardous '.'-1 aste Generator's license from the Ramsey County Public Health Department. Subd. 3 Special Regulations for Drive-up Windows.. Drive-in Businesses and Fast Food Restaurants. Section 1325.04 of the Zoning Ordinance specifies additional requirements for drive-in businesses.. fast food restaurants.. and automobile service stations. For the purposes of the B2 District.. these regulations shall also apply to drive-up windows. The provision whereby the proximity requirement of one thousand three hundred and twenty (1,,320) feet between drive-in businesses.. fast food restaurants.. and drive-up windows may be waived if the following conditions are met as determined by the City Council: .A. The architectural treatlnent'l circlllatio:n plan.. and. sign.age systenl of SllCh businesses shall l1e {lesigned to visually an.d fun.ction.ally integrate the bltilding and the site on 'w'hicll it is located.. B. Th.e applicallt shall subn1.it a circlllatio:n plan th.at de:mon.strates tllat the llse will n.ot interfere or re{luce the safety of 11on-nlotorized movenlents'I specifically .pedestrian and 'bicyclists. c. :Requested :modi.ficatiolls to tIle provisiollS in section. 1325.04 shall be stated in \vriting alollg with an eXIJlanatio:n ofwh.y the 'modifi.cation.s would be in. the public interest and. would be consistent 'with thepllrpose of tIle B-2 District. 7 BLACK LINE VERSION TO SHOW CHANGES TO SECTION 1320 Subd.4 :Hotel/M:otel Ad.ditional Condition.at 'U'se Permit Criteria. In. addition. to meeting the req'uiren1e11ts of Section 1345 and. 1355.04 Su'bd. 3~ hotel/motels shall confonn to the following: A. :Meet buildin.g code requiren1.el1.ts: B. El1.trance to each roonl shall be fronl an. indoor conAidor; c. Landscaping shall be brought i11tO confoffi1a11ce \vith section 1325.05 S'ubd 1. Subd.5 Design Standards. The standards in, section 1325 sh.all apply. Subd. 11 Institutional Housing. Pending completion of the Cit)T's B 2 Zoning District Planning Study, an tDcisting hotel motel use ma)T be used for institutional housing upon approval of an Interim Use Permit provided that all of the follo~l/ing requirements are met: ~1ddcd ~1pril 28, 2008 .L^~. Conformance ~.'vith Section 1355.04 Subd 7 of the Zoning Code; B. The building to be used for institutional housing meets applicable building and fire codes us determined by the Fire 1farshal and Building Official; C. Each room that has occupants on an o~/emight basis shall ha've bathroom facilities ~.'lithin the room; D. The capacity of the building shall not be exceeded; E. The institutional housing shall only be used for student or faculty housing. Rest homes, hospitals, sanatorium, nursing home, con~/alescont homes, and orphan homes shall not be permitted. F. .L^~ reg.ularly scheduled shuttle shall be pro~/ided to and from the college or campus for ~.'vhich the institutional housing is being usod; 8 Attachment B Proposed Sign Code Amendments Ordinance 2008-0 11 1240.02 Table 1 and Subd 2.C ~ ~HILLS November 24, 2008 PROPOSED SIGN CODE CITY OF ARDEN HILLS COUNTY OF RAMSEY STATE OF MINNESOTA ORDINANCE NO. 2008-011 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SIGN STANDARDS FOR SIGN DISTRICT 4 The Arden Hills City Council hereby ordains that Section 1240.02 Table 1 and Section 1240.02 Subd 2.C of the Sign Code is amended to read as follows: Table 1 Sign Standards by Sign District Si nT e District 4 County E Frontage Type (b) M/O Max Area 50 sf Max Height 10 ft Lighting ElI/B Max Area 25% of wall Max Height none Lighting external Max area per sign 8 sf Wall Height 8 ft Freestanding Height 8 ft (a) E = external, I = internal, B = backlit (b) M = monument, P = pole, 0 = temporary off. premise sign (see 1250.03) (c) Single pole support only. 1 PROPOSED SIGN CODE Subd.2 Freestanding Pole or Monument Signs. c. Freestanding signs in Sign Districts 4 and 5 shall be monument type ground signs with the copy resting on and supported by a solid base of brick or rock-faced block in a color similar to or complimentary to the main structure on the site. The material of the base must extend at least one-half way up the sides of the sign face. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective the day following its publication. Adoption Date. Passed by the City Council of the City of Arden Hills the 24th day of November, 2008. STAN HARPSTEAD, MAYOR ATTEST: RONALD J MOORSE CITY ADMINISTRATOR Publication Date: December 3, 2008 2 CITY OF ARDEN HILLS COUNTY OF RAMSEY STATE OF MINNESOTA SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 2008-011 On the 24th day of November, 2008, the Arden Hills City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2008-011, and by at least four/fifths affirmative votes pursuant to Minn. Stat. S412.191, Subd. 4, directed that a summary of Ordinance 2008-011 be published. Chapter 12, Sections 1240.02 Table 1 and Subd 2.C are collectively known as Ordinance 2008- 011 entitled "An Ordinance Amending the Sign Standards for Sign District 4." The primary purpose of these Sign Code changes is to revise the design regulations for signs in Sign District 4, which includes the B-2 General Business District. A full copy of Ordinance 2008-011 is available for inspection by any person during regular business hours at the office of the City Administrator, 1245 West Highway 96, Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112. The Ordinance is also available online at http://www.ci.arden- hills.mn.us. EXISTING SIGN CODE Section 1240 - General Sign Regulations 1240.01 Regulation by Sign District. For the purpose of regulating signs, the following nine sign districts are adopted: District Description 1 All residential properties zoned R-l or R-2. 2 All non-residential uses in the R-l through R-4 zoning districts. 3 All residential properties zoned R-3 and R-4. All properties fronting on County Road E east of Highway 4 51 except for those properties with frontage on Lexington Avenue. 5 All properties fronting on Lexington Avenue South of Interstate 694. All properties zoned for commercial or industrial use 6 fronting on Lexington Avenue north of Interstate 694, properties along Highway 96, and properties located in the B-1 zonin2 district. All properties in the I-Flex, Gateway Business, or other 7 commercial or industrial district without frontage on a roadway designated above. 8 All properties zoned Neighborhood Business. 9 The parts of the TCAAP area not fronting on Highway 96. 1240.02 Permitted Sign Type, Area, Height, and Illumination by Sign District. All signs shall conform to the applicable standards in Table One: Sign Standards by Sign District. The following provisions shall also apply: Subd.l Wall Sign. Wall signs shall not extend more than eighteen (18) inches from the wall they are attached to. 12-22 Adopted: March 10, 2008 EXISTING SIGN CODE Subd. 2 Freestanding Pole or Monument Signs. A. No more than one freestanding sign shall be permitted on any site except in cases where properties front more than one public street. For properties that front more than one public street, an additional freestanding sign may be permitted for each street front provided that each additional freestanding sign does not exceed half the size of the maximum sign area allowed for a freestanding sign in the underlying sign district. B. The sign area of a freestanding sign shall only be calculated using one side of the sign. If the two sides are different sizes, the larger side shall be used for determining sign area. c. Freestanding signs in Sign District 5 shall be monument type ground signs with the copy resting on and supported by a solid base of brick or rock-faced block in a color similar to or complimentary to the main structure on the site. The material of the base must extend at least one- half way up the sides of the sign face. D. Freestanding signs shall be located at least five (5) feet from any property line and shall not project over the property line. However, if the bottom edge of the sign copy is not located at least ten (10) feet above the ground 12-23 Adopted: March 10, 2008 EXISTING SIGN CODE area. with supports that do not encroach on the clear vision area of approaching traffic, the sign shall be located to preserve the clear vision E. The total area of a freestanding sign shall not exceed 1.5 times the permitted sign copy area of a freestanding sign. The total sign area includes all sign copy, graphics, decorative features, borders, and structural supports except for the poles. Subd. 3 Service Area Canopy. Each edge of a service area canopy facing a street is permitted twenty-five (25) square feet of sign area in addition to all other sign area permitted on the site. Such signage may be illuminated externally, internally, or backlit, but no other part of the face of the canopy shall be illuminated. Subd.4 Awnings and Canopies. No part of an awning or sun canopy shall be less than eight (8) feet or greater than twelve (12) feet above grade. Any sign area on the awning, if illuminated, will be deducted from the permitted wall sign area. The fabric or material used for the awning or canopy must be opaque and no internal illumination is permitted. 12-24 Adopted: March 10, 2008 ~ ~ o u z ~ ~ 00 ~ z ~ ~ 00 ~ >< ~ Q) :c cu I- CD C) J9 e~ en....~ .... .... ca o ~ ~ i~"E, c 'i :i: Q. c: ~ 0 o I- "C o OQ 0 U) '0 of: m 'i: 0 c 1;) ~ 'U) c ,~~ z ~ ca ~ r--J! .... ca :5C> U)~ c~ ..J U. ..... (,) "i: ..... tn i5 c C) Cii ~ .Q tn "E cu "'C C S CJ) c C) Cii "f:!t" en CD CDO"f"" UZm :sc:~ is i~ c: ';:C CD ..J "f:!t en CD 'I- LI) 0 Uti) 'i: c: 1;).9 c ~ ";:C CD ..J CD C) ca .... "f:!t c: .... e Ou. iw c~ ~ o o Q) :c cu I- N o ci llIl:t N or- M~ Uc:~ :S~M U) "U) 0::: c~ N ~~ '0 c c: "f"" :sO~o::: U) Z "U) m c ~~ "f""ni ....+iN .~ ; 0:::_ b"C .!! "U) it: C~ CD C. ~ c: C) en CD_ C)ca ca ,- .... ~ c: CD e E it E c: 0 ~O =: =: CD CD =: =: CD CD =: OQ =: CD =: OQ =: OQ =: "f:!t =: "f:!t "C CD = 'S "- CD C. .... o Z .... .c C) 'C; J: ni 3: =: OQ =: CD =: OQ =: OQ =: "f:!t M o o LO C\I -r- (]) (]) !!!." c: 0> 0Ci) (]) t/) oE ~ 0. ~ o ~ ~ o 32 E =: ~ $ N .c II ~ 0 =: "f:!t (ij -t Eo.>. $ II "2 oS c.. ~ 1:' 8- ~ ~ :l Cl) c: '0 o 0.. E Cl) II Oh ~ ~ 1: II C) "c; (ij J: c C) Q) :6 ~ c: II J9 w U) CD .t~e~ 00 o o N 0..... ~ tn"5 ~ a ~::E ~ (1) ~ ~ o "0 < City of Arden Hills Chapter 12 Sign Code Subd.5 Adult Use Signs. In addition to this Chapter, all adult use oriented signs shall comply with the sign requirements in the Adult Use Ordinance. Where any provisions of this Chapter conflict with the Adult Use Ordinance, the provision that is more stringent shall be ,applied. 1240.03 Manual Changeable Message Sign. No more than thirty-five (35) percent of the actual sign area of a permitted sign in a non-residential sign district shall be capable of displaying manually changing messages. The remainder of the sign area shall not have the capability to change messages even if not used. Manual changing message signs shall not include dynamic displays. 12-26 Adopted: March 10, 2008 Attachment C November 5, 2008, Planning Commission Minutes (DRAFT) ~ ~HILLS November 24, 2008 ,... u.. <( ~ Q DRAFT MINUTES CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA PLANNING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2008 6:30 P.M. - ARDEN HILLS CITY HALL PLANNING CASES A. PLANNING CASE #08-028: B2 District Desi!!n Standards - Public Hearin!! , Chair Larson announced that this will be a Public Hearing. Community Development Director James Lehnhoff presented a proposal to revise the design standards for the B2 Zoning District. He stated that the area includes the commercial area on County Road E, between Lexington Avenue and Highway 51, and along Connelly Avenue, adjacent to Pinetree Drive. He stated that the Staff is recommending approval, and the Staff offered the following findings for consideration: 1. The City Council adopted the "Guiding Plan for the B2 District" on October 27, 2008, with a few modifications. 2. The proposed design standards are in substantial conformance with the Guiding Plan. 3. The proposed design standards would work toward implementing the recommendations in the Guiding Plan. Community Development Director Lehnhoff provided additional background and showed slides. He stated that the implementation step focuses on private development aspects and will touch 3 parts of the coding zone: 1. 135-04 - Definition 2. 1320 - Purpose, Land Use Charts, District Requirements Chart and Special Requirements 3. 1325-05 - Subdivision 8, which is a revision of the Design Standards themselves. Community Development Director Lehnhoff elaborated more on each of the 3 parts. Community Development Director Lehnhoff stated that the procedure for new developments and significant redevelopments would go through the PUD Process, which would give the Staff a better chance to discuss and negotiate, and meet the intent of the Guiding Plan for the B2 District. There will also be a clause included for minor changes, so they would not have to go through the entire process. Community Development Director Lehnhoff explained that the purpose of the design standards is to set expectations for the City and the Developer. Community Development Director Lehnhoff concluded that the Staff recommends approval of Ordinance 2008-011 in Planning Case 08-028, for a definition and design standards for the B2 District, as presented in the November 5, 2008, Planning Case Report, as amended. The changes made were: ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 5, 2008 2 Page 1, Subd. 7, B2, General Business District, Item B: changed wording to read "pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly community. . . " Page 4, 1320.85, beginning with the fourth sentence: revised to read: "To that end, new development and redevelopment shall conform to the standards in this and related zoning requirements. The "guiding Plan for the B2 District" shall act as a guide for development, but is not part of the Zoning Code." Page 4, Subd. 1, Procedure, A., second sentence revised to read: ".. . modifications from the applicable zoning requirements. . . " Page 4, Subd. 1, Procedure, A., third sentence revised to read: "Modifications to these requirements may be granted by the City without a variance through the PUD process. Page 4, Subd. 1, Procedure, A: deleted the fourth sentence that began with, "Applicants are encouraged. . ." Page 5, Subd. 1, Procedure, C.3: changed Section 1325.04 Subd 7 to Section 1325. Page 5, Subd. 2, Uses: added C4 Tattoo parlors and C5 "Payday" loan establishments Page 6, Subd. 4: remove all of "Institutional Housing" language. Page 7, Subd. 4: added Hotel/Motel Additional Conditional Use Permit Criteria. In addition to meeting the requirements of Section 1345 and 1355.04, Subd. 3, hotel/motels shall conform to the following: A. Meet building code requirements; B. Provide restaurant, banquet facilities, and/or corporate meeting facilities in or attached to the hotel; C. Entrance to each room shall be from an indoor corridor. D. Landscaping shall be brought into conformance with Section 1325.05, Subd. 1. Page 7, Subd. 5, Design Standards: changed to read: "The standards in Section 1325 shall apply." All other wording should be deleted. Page 9, 1325.05, Subd. 8, D3: replaced the word "Prohibited" with "Undesirable." Page 9, 1325.05, Subd. 8, D3: second sentence reworded to read, "Extensive use of mirrored or tinted...." and ".. . approved building materials are also undesirable." Page 10, 1325.05, Subd. 8, F2: reworded the first sentence to read: "...remaining sides that are reasonably visible to the public shall be window coverage," Page 14, 1325.05, Subd. 8, P3: reworded to read, "Bike racks shall be required near the public entrances of all buildings." Chair Larson inquired whether any commissioners had any questions for Community Development Director Lehnhoff. Commissioner Zimmerman stated that he wanted to commend Community Development Director Lehnhoff and City Planner Meagan Beekman for the time and energy they put into this. It was very well thought out, very well researched and very well written. PUBLIC HEARING Chair Larson opened the Public Hearing at 6:55 p.m. O\t~f1 ,..", ~ : Q ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 5, 2008 3 Mr. Dave Rosher, who owns a light indhstrial building on Connelly Avenue, which is currently rented by Corporate Express, stated that he had a couple questions. He stated that, on a map, there is a street where his building is today. He questioned whether he would need to worry about eminent domain. Community Development Director Lehnhoff replied that he had conversations with the current tenant, Corporate Express. He stated that these design standards do not mean Mr. Rosher has to change the existing building - These are meant to be only for new development. He added that no businesses need to be concerned about eminent domain. Mr. Rosher inquired about what would happen if the building were vacant for more than 6 months. Community Development Director Lehnhoff replied that, if he has a conditional use permit that is about to expire, he has an option to reapply for another conditional use permit. Community Development Director Lehnhoff stated that the PUD Process is a well- established process, and that he does not anticipate it changing. Commissioner Modesette stated that they had discussed not forcing out any existing business. It would take something major for that to happen. Commissioner Zimmerman stated that this is just meant to be a guiding plan - What we would like to see at one point. Mr. Rosher questioned how rezoning would affect property taxes. Chair Larson replied that that was not something they have knowledge of. He stated that it is the value of the structure that determines the property taxes. Community Development Director Lehnhoff replied that they are only amending the existing rezoning. Mr. Rosher questioned if the conditional use would be transferable if he were to sell his building. Community Development Director Lehnhoff replied that the permit goes with the property, not the owner. Chair Larson stated that the tenant changing would not matter either. Community Development Director Lehnhoff stated that he would be happy to sit down with Mr. Rosher, ifhe has any further questions. Mr. Rob Davidson, President of the Davidson Companies, stated that he and his partner, Stu Knowlan, purchased the former Holiday Inn in April 2008. This was purchased as an empty hotel, and it was pretty run down and not taken care of. He stated that they were I--., 11.. ~ Q ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 5, 2008 4 fortunate enough to attract an interim use with Northwestern College. Went through the Commission and the City Council and have been successful in renovating and bringing some vibrancy to the building. Mr. Davidson stated that he and his partner have some concerns with the proposed Ordinance changes: Changing the hotel use from a permitted use to the conditional use. Density restrictions as they relate to multi family housing Zoning change from a permitted use to a conditional use. They not sure what we will do with the property. In a couple years or before, we will be figuring what will be the best use of the property. Mr. Davidson stated that he is heavily invested in this community, and he and his partner want to have high-quality property. The challenge they have is that they have a piece of land that has a use as a hotel, and the Ordinance puts certain requirements on it because of that. He is very concerned about the change from a permitted use to a conditional use. He stated that they are committed to doing a top-notch job, but they do not know what the market will allow them to do. Chair Larson replied that the stated Objectives are meant to be flexible, and the City is willing to accommodate. He added that this is not a rigid, strictly-enforced document. Discussion ensued. Mr. Stu Knowlan, Mr. Davidson's partner, stated that he has been a developer over 40 years. He stated a concern about the statement, "Hotels/motels shall conform to the following: restaurants, ..." He stated that the word "shall" does not sound flexible. Chair Larson replied that it may be possible to change the wording to make it more flexible. Community Development Director Lehnhoff stated that the wording does say "shall;" however, a variance can be requested. Chair Larson recommended that this be discussed, at another time, with Community Development Director Lehnhoff. Mr. Knowlan stated that he wants to go on the record as saying that this concerns him. Mr. Knowlan stated that another concern was the fact that 5 story buildings will not be allowed. He stated that, according to the height limit of 50 feet, they should be allowed. The last concern Mr. Knowlan talked about was described as high density. He said that 20 units per acre is medium density. Community Development Director Lehnhoff stated that these guidelines are just a starting point for us, but they have come from experts and have been reviewed by Staff. Ir-. LI... : Q ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 5, 2008 5 Discussion ensued. Chair Larson closed the Public Hearing at 7:43 p.m. Commissioner Holewa inquired as to where the requirements regarding banquet facilities came from. Community Development Director Lehnhoff replied that they were looking for how to determine a hotel from a motel. Commissioner Stodola suggested amending Part B2 to say something like "encourage a restaurant. " Commissioner Reiff proposed striking Condition B. Discussion ensued. Commissioner Reiff moved, seconded by Commissioner Stodola, to strike Condition B Commissioner Thompson stated that her preference would be to leave Condition B in and allow a variance if it comes up. Commissioner Holewa inquired whether they could strike Condition B. Chair Larson stated that he would like to recommend striking it. Commissioner Holewa stated that he did n0t believe a motion is appropriate at this time. Chair Larson stated he would strike the motion on the floor. Additional discussion ensued regarding Condition B. Community Development Director Lehnhoff stated that an official motion could be made at a later time. Commissioner Holewa stated that this could still be discussed after a motion is made. Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Zimmerman, to approve Planning Case 08-028; B2 District Design Standards, as amended. The motion carried (5-2). Chair Larson and Commissioner Thompson opposed. Additional discussion ensued regarding the use of bicycles. Chair Larson stated that the consensus of the Commission on Subd. 7B regarding bicycles is to leave the wording as is. Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Zimmerman, to amend the original Ordinance as the amendments were proposed in the presentation earlier from the base document. ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 5, 2008 6 The motion carried unanimously (7-0). Commissioner Stodola questioned whether that will include the 2 additional changes discussed tonight. Chair Larson stated that no, it was only for the amendments proposed in the presentation earlier. Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Zimmerman, to amend the Ordinance No. 2008-010 document by striking Item B on page 7, Subd 4. The motion carried (5-2). Chair Larson and Commissioner Thompson opposed. Commissioner Modesette moved, seconded by Commissioner Holewa, to amend the verbiage on the Fa9ade Transparency requirement on Page 10, Item F, to re-title to Commercial Fa9ade Transparency so that it is applicable only to commercial properties. The motion carried unanimously (7-0). Commissioner Holewa questioned whether changing the Fa9ade Transparency to commercial only would cause us to lose anything. Community Development Director Lehnhoff stated that it would not. Chair Larson recommended a motion for approval of the new B2 District Design Standards, Planning Case 08-028 as amended by the motions previously made and by the amendments 'verbally outlined by James at the beginning of the meeting. Community Development Director Lehnhoff stated that such a motion is already on the floor, requiring a final vote. The motion carried unanimously 7/0.