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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001-02-06 P & Z CITY OF CENTERVILLE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 6, 2001 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the Planning and Zoning Commission held their regularly scheduled meeting on February 6, 2001, at 6:30 p. m. PRESENT: ChairpersonBrian Hanson Commission Member David Kilian Commission Member Rob Sheppard Commission Member John McLean Commission Member Ray DeVine Commission Member Alan LaMotte Commission Member Barry Brainard ABSENT: None. COUNCIL: Mayor Swedberg, Council Members Nelson, Travis and Capra STAFF: City Administrator March I. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 6:34 p.m. Chairperson Hanson asked Mayor Swedberg to speak with the Commission at this time. 1.Honorable Mayor and Council Members Mayor Swedberg explained he wanted to talk with the Committee about the relationship between Committees and Council. He stated that Council relies on the decisions of the Committees. Mayor Swedberg read a memo that he had previously forwarded to all Committees/Commissions. Mayor Swedberg stated that Council has met twice in work sessions to discuss issues prior to Council Meetings. Mayor Swedberg requested that Council be provided with researched information and fact, rather than opinion on issues forwarded to Council for consideration. Mayor Swedberg reviewed Council’s short and long-term goals. Mayor Swedberg requested that the Committee provide its perspective regarding goals to Council. Page 1 of 10 Commissioner Brainard stated that when speaking about the vision for the community, Council needs to consider the entire community’s vision concerning developments. Mayor Swedberg stated that the City has limited resources and decisions need to be focused on quality and necessity of the services that are offered. Mayor Swedberg stated that part of Council’s vision is to attract and retain businesses while making public safety and education a priority. Council Member Nelson asked Commissioner Brainard to explain his earlier comment. Commissioner Brainard explained that some residents desire no further development, residential or commercial. Council Member Capra stated that Council has requested that Staff work with a consultant to develop a blueprint for the City that would govern development. This blueprint would give Council and Committees guidance in making decisions. Commissioner Brainard stated he believed that Council would have a tough balancing act to accomplish the goals of the City without raising taxes. Mayor Swedberg stated that Council’s responsibility is to provide needed services to residents at a reasonable cost. Mayor Swedberg stated that he believed in the Comprehensive Plan and asked the Committee to adhere to the requirements of same when making decisions concerning zoning and development. Mayor Swedberg explained he frequently sends e-mail to Committee Members and said the information is for informational purposes only. He said any official information or information requiring a reply will be sent out through Mr. March. Council Member Capra stated that options for grant money or money from the Met Council may be available to assist the City with long range planning and Council would research and participate in these options in an attempt to save tax dollars. Council Member Capra requested that a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission address Council at each Council meeting to give an update on items before the Commission. Mayor Swedberg stated that Council anticipated conducting work sessions on a regular basis and invited participation of Commission Members. Mayor Swedberg requested that Commission Members communicate theirs needs to Council. Mayor Swedberg stated that Council’s desire is to standardize Committee Member terms so that turn over is staggered. Page 2 of 10 Mayor Swedberg requested that concerns regarding the exterior appearance of buildings be determined by Planning and Zoning and forwarded to Council for consideration. Council Member Nelson suggested that a checklist be drafted to correlate ordinance requirements to individual issues before the Commission and same would assist Council in making their decision when the item was forwarded to them for consideration. Commissioner DeVine stated that he believed a planner or architect would need to be available to provide design criteria for buildings to assist in reviewing submitted plans prior to Council submission. Commissioner Brainard felt that the Commission Members would benefit from a more in-depth understanding of State Statutes that govern issues regularly discussed by them. Mayor Swedberg questioned the knowledge of Commission Members. Commissioner LaMotte indicated that classes are available for training and that several Commission Members have taken advantage of same. Commissioner DeVine stated that Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers has been a huge asset and a wealth of knowledge concerning planning and zoning issues from her years of experience as a Commission Member. Mayor Swedberg requested that Commission Members determine training needs and forward same to Council for consideration. Council Member Capra felt that pertinent information should be provided to new appointees informing them of their duties and responsibilities. Commissioner Kilian departed the meeting at 7:23 p.m. II. PUBLIC HEARING(S) 1.Ordinance #39 – Sign Chairperson Hanson opened the public hearing at 7:25 p.m. Commissioner DeVine stated that he felt the Commission had previously decided not to allow larger signs on properties with frontage on county roads. Mr. March stated that Council requested that the middle two (2) sentences concerning additional size be reconsidered. Council has proposed that the language allowing a larger sign be deleted from the ordinance. Consensus was to accept the amendment proposed by Council. Economic Development Committee (EDC) Chairperson, Ms. Aimee Fairbrother, was present and stated that EDC is looking for clarification on the length of time event banners may be displayed. Page 3 of 10 Commissioner Brainard stated that an application needed to be completed by the applicant requesting permission to display a banner and same would address the length of time the banner would be displayed for. It was suggested the City allow fourteen (14) days before the event and fourteen (14) days after the event. Commissioner DeVine stated it was the intention of the Commission to limit banners so they were not displayed for an indefinite period of time. Chairperson Hanson stated limiting the events to six (6) per year would allow people to promote events on major holidays. Commissioner McLean suggested allowing a fourteen (14) day window for putting the banner up and taking it down. Consensus was to limit businesses to six (6) events per year on temporary signs, as well as banners. EDC Member, Ms. Betsy Scheller, was present and stated that businesses may desire to use a temporary banner on a regular basis versus constructing a more permanent sign. Ms. Fairbrother questioned whether a new business would be allowed to have a temporary sign until a permanent sign is installed. Mr. March explained that a temporary sign for a new business is covered in a separate section of the Ordinance. Ms. Fairbrother requested clarification on painted signs. Specifically, if a sign would be allowed to be painted on the side of a building. Ms. Scheller questioned whether a mural would be considered a sign. Mr. March asked that changes to the Ordinance be clearly relayed to the recording secretary for clarity. Motion by Commissioner DeVine, seconded by Commissioner Sheppard to close the public hearing. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously. Chairperson Hanson closed the public hearing at 7:48 p.m. III. APPEARANCES 1.Honorable Mayor and Council Members This item was previously discussed. IV. OLD BUSINESS None. V. NEW BUSINESS Page 4 of 10 1. Mr. Terry Sager – Mini Storage Mr. Sager’s partner, Mr. Sadelack, stated that he needs clarification on easements, setbacks, fence lines and sprinkler requirements. Commissioner Brainard suggested speaking with Fire Chief Bennett regarding sprinkler requirements. Mr. Sadelack questioned the setbacks for the Industrial Park. Mr. March explained that currently, mini-storage is not allowed in any of the zoning districts. The City may allow some in one of the existing zoning districts, or could create a separate, special, zoning district. Mr. March stated that the City may place restrictions on mini-storage facilities, but cannot refuse the construction of mini-storage facilities. Mr. March indicated he had spoken with Mr. Sadelack and explained that the Commission would need to determine City requirements prior to allowing mini-storage plans to move forward. Mr. March also stated that another party has contacted City Hall and stated that they were interested in constructing a mini-storage facility but was unable to attend the meeting. Commissioner DeVine questioned whether Mr. Sadelack would provide a tax value for the proposed facility prior to determining the setbacks and other information requested by him. Mr. Sager questioned the City’s sprinkler requirements versus other cities’. Mr. March indicated Centerville has adopted a more restrictive version of the fire code. Mr. Sager asked if a variance could be obtained to disallow the sprinklers. Commissioner Brainard explained city government is not allowed to override state law. Commissioner DeVine stated he believes the City will consider allowing mini-storage in the Industrial Park but has concerns regarding the tax valuation of the building. Mr. Sager stated that per Mr. Hoeft, the City must allow mini-storage. Mr. Sager questioned whether the City intended on imposing such restrictions that it would be cost prohibitive to construct mini-storage in Centerville. Commissioner Brainard said he would like to see the tax base for the building prior to further discussion. Mr. Sager stated that he sees 500 to 1,000 people a week at his liquor store and many of them have requested mini-storage in this area. In his opinion, mini-storage would benefit the community. Commissioner McLean stated that residents requested more outside storage when amendments were being made to Ordinance #4. Council Member Capra questioned whether mini-storage would be in the Industrial Park. Mr. March explained that mini-storage is not currently allowed under any zoning district but it may be appropriate to allow it in the Industrial Park. Page 5 of 10 Commissioner DeVine stated that he would be willing to allow mini-storage without serious restrictions, as long as it will benefit the tax base. Commissioner Brainard questioned whether Mr. Sager and Mr. Sadelack would provide an estimate of the revenue produced by this facility and the improved value of the property. Mr. Sadelack questioned who have could speak to concerning setbacks and easements. Commissioner DeVine suggested having the property surveyed to ensure validity of setbacks. Mr. March indicated the need to apply to Anoka County for an access permit to ascertain County requirements. Mr. Sadelack stated that the access for the facility would be installed in the summer and would not require access from the County road. Mr. Sadelack stated that they had entered into a purchase agreement to purchase three (3) acres of land and needed to purchase an additional acre of land due to setback requirements. With the purchase of both properties, it makes it difficult to provide valuation information at the present time. Mr. March questioned, Builder, Mr. Farrari, as to the square foot dollar amount for the building. Mr. Ferrari stated that several variables apply, $15 or $16 if sprinkled; if not sprinkled, $12 to $13 for the building but then you need to figure in concrete, site work, electrical and so the estimate would be $20 to $25 per square foot completed. Mr. Ferrari indicated the sprinkler adds a significant cost because the facility would need to be heated and insulated to store a dry-charge system. Commissioner Brainard recommended they consult with an architect, as an architect may be the best person available to work through the issues and provide the information needed to provide the Commission with a tax valuation of the facility. Mr. Sadelack asked if there was any way around installing the sprinklers. Commissioner Brainard suggested that Mr. Farrari and Mr. Sadelack speak with Staff to determine the sprinkling requirements for the building. Mr. March stated the Commission must determine requirements for allowing mini- storage prior to further discussion. Mr. Ferrari questioned whether mini-storage would fit into the City’s Comprehensive Plan or if they are wasting their time attempting to obtain approval for the proposed mini- storage facility. Commissioner Brainard explained the Comprehensive Plan gives zones and zoning code information but currently does not address mini-storage facilities. Mr. March stated that the City has to allow for mini-storage facilities, but may place restrictions on them. Mr. March explained that mini-storage facilities do not provide Page 6 of 10 employment opportunities or use city services. The appearance of the facilities and its affect on the tax base are also important issues to the City. Mr. Sadelack said he would provide information on the proposed building and the tax value at the next meeting if available. Commissioner McLean felt that Mr. Sadelack should provide information regarding mini-storage facilities and its appropriateness in Centerville also. Council Member Capra questioned whether polling other communities in regards to mini- storage requirements would be a useful tool for the Commission and Commission Member DeVine concurred. Mr. March stated that two (2) commercial properties north and south of Center Street might be options for mini-storage facilities. Commissioner DeVine suggested that Mr. Sadelack and Mr. Sager provide information to Staff by March 1, 2001 in order to make sure the information is in packets for the March 6, 2001 Planning and Zoning meeting. 2.Ordinance #39 – Sign The Commission agreed to make the following changes to Ordinance #39 – Sign: Page 5, Section 020-020 Temporary Signs, A. shall read: Temporary banners and pennants shall be displayed for no more than fourteen (14) days. A maximum of six (6) occurrences per year are allowed. Banners or pennants determined to be an integral part of the design or architecture of a building are permitted. Page 5, Section 020-020 Temporary Signs, add Section C1. shall read: In any district, one (1), “temporary help wanted” or “now hiring” sign may be erected for the purpose of advertising employment positions. Only one such sign shall be permitted per street frontage. Such sign shall be removed upon filling the employment position(s). The maximum size of such signs for each district are as follows: Page 5, Section 020-020 Temporary Signs, Section D. shall read as follows: Commercial District – Thirty-two (32) square feet Industrial District – Thirty-two (32) square feet Mixed-Use District – Sixteen (16) square feet Agricultural/Rural Residential – Thirty-two (32) square feet Page 5, Section 020-020 Temporary Signs re-letter current letter D. to E. Page 7, Section 030-010 Residential Public Districts Permitted Signs, Section C. shall read: Page 7 of 10 Business Signs – Home-based businesses may have a sign that is no larger than four (4) square feet. The sign may not be an interior-illuminated sign. Motion by Commissioner DeVine, seconded by Commissioner Sheppard to amend Ordinance #39 as specified. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously. 3.Site Plan Review Checklist Mr. March reviewed the submitted draft checklist that will ensure that all requirements are met during site plan review. Mr. March requested comments on same prior to the next meeting. Commissioner Brainard questioned whether Staff would be using the form to verify all information has been reviewed and reporting same to the Commission prior to consideration of the project. Mr. March indicated Staff would be using the form to prepare a report to the Commission for their review process. Commissioner Brainard requested a report on each plan from Building Official, Mr. Paul Palzer, as well as, Mr. March on the checklist items highlighting any special concerns. VI. DISCUSSION ITEMS Commissioner DeVine questioned whether Mr. March had recommendations for mini- storage facilities. Mr. March felt that the tax base consideration was very important. Commissioner DeVine stated that developing mini-storage requirements would assist the Commission in advising those interested in building mini-storage facilities. Chairperson Hanson suggested that a work session be held prior to the next meeting to develop requirements for mini-storage facilities. Commissioner Sheppard stated if the City required them to follow the Industrial criteria, everything is already set up. Chairperson Hanson explained that there are many things that need to be determined other than just the appearance of the building. Commissioner DeVine questioned the possibility of discussing requirements at the next regular meeting prior to audience participation. Chairperson Hanson stated he preferred to discuss this item at a work session. Mr. March noted the work session is public meeting. Mr. Sadelack and Mr. Sager may be in attendance. Chairperson Hanson said they may not be there because it is a work session and not a formal meeting. Chairperson Hanson questioned the procedures for dealing with two (2) builders coming before the Commission requesting to develop the same property with the same type of facility. Mr. March stated that he did not foresee two (2) individuals building mini- Page 8 of 10 storage facilities in the City. Mr. March stated there are concerns regarding job creation with a business such as proposed and the City will need to limit the amount of property allowable for this type of usage within the Industrial Park. Mr. March suggested looking at the more marginal property in the Industrial Park. Motion by Commissioner DeVine, seconded by Commissioner Brainard to schedule a work session on Tuesday, February 13, 2001, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss the criteria for mini-storage facilities within the City. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously. Commissioner DeVine stated that a resident recently asked him if they are being assessed for City water and sewer services what time frame requirement is there for installation. Mr. March stated he believed the resident would have to hook up to sewer immediately but did not have to hook up to the water service until their well went bad. Commissioner DeVine indicated the resident is not hooked up to either service currently and for financial reasons, wants to know if there is some way of postponing hooking up to the sewer system. The resident has been assessed a large amount for the services and cannot afford it. Commissioner Brainard indicated state law governs the issue and the City cannot override that. Commissioner DeVine stated that the resident is in fear of losing the home if an extension to install services is not granted. Mr. March explained the resident could petition the City to have it assessed to his taxes. Commissioner DeVine indicated the assessment to run the systems to the property was $13,000 and has been assessed to the property over a period of ten (10) years. The resident is concerned about an estimated $10,000 installation fee to provide sewer services. Mr. March indicated the possibility of assessing the installation fee to the property. Chairperson Hanson questioned garbage services and whether there were numerous haulers in the city or just one (1). He then questioned a change in billing brought to his attention by a resident. There is an additional $10.00 charge this quarter. Mr. March explained there is only one (1) garbage hauler in the City and stated there should not have been a fluctuation in the price. Mr. March stated that he is unaware of a rate increase. Chairperson Hanson questioned how the cable franchising is determined in the City. Mr. March explained there is a seven (7) city, cable commission that governs the cable franchise. The commission is currently under negotiations with Qwest to renew the franchise. Mr. March stated that cable rates are regulated by the Commission. VII. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES 1.January 2, 2001 Meeting Minutes Page 9 of 10 Motion by Commissioner DeVine, seconded by Commissioner LaMotte to approve the January 2, 2001 Meeting Minutes as presented. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously. VIII. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Commissioner Sheppard, seconded by Commissioner DeVine to adjourn the February 6, 2001 Planning Commission Meeting at 9:12 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously. Transcribed by: Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. Proofed by: Teresa Bender, Clerk/Treasurer Page 10 of 10