2002-06-26 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . GronD 2 - City StatfPersDective - Planninl! and Enlrineerinl!. Parks and Recreation Prairie Ridge is a small town and you are a planning and engineering staff of limited size. The recent surge of new development in the town means you've had a chance to tackle some big projects, and generally it has gone well. The Planning Commission and City Council generally respect your professionalism and sound advice. Some developers, however, have complained that you are "too tough" in enforcing development standards, while some old-time residents think you are too "pro growth" because you want to keep your jobs. The Premier Properties development will be the largest and most complex project you've ever handled and you're feeling a bit overwhelmed. You were shocked, but excited, when the PremierProperties group first came into city hall to talk with you about the proposal. You hadn't thought Prairie Ridge was quite ready for houses so expensive. You were also surprised about the proposal to include retail development. Overall, you think the proposal is a fantastic opportunity for the city but you also have some concerns. The streets in the area really can't handle the rush hour traffic that would be generated by 275 new homes. The sewer and water lines are also too small. The developer has agreed to put in the new utility lines, but believes it is the city's responsibility to construct larger streets. You're not sure how that's going to be paid for in the short term. You're warned that the ground and lake pollution from Wild Bill's could be worse than anyone suspects. Premier Properties is prepared to cover the expected clean up cost, but no more. If the situation turns worse during excavation, who is going to pay the extra cost? Finally, since this development is located next to the historic downtown, you would like to see more ofa "New Urbanist" approach with smaller lots, front porches on the houses, etc. Unfortunately, Premier Properties is pushing for single-family homes on traditional large lots that will look pretty different from the existing older neighborhoods located nearby. The Parks and Recreation Director is a part of your staff review team. She would like to see more open space, public trail access along the water, and a public beach area preserved. The City's existing Comprehensive Plan and zoning ordinance would allow only 225 units if done in the way the developer wants, but they are asking for a variance to 275. Please do not sbare tbe information on this sheet with students in tbe other work groups.