pm_070606 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Planning Commission Meeting Minutes – Wednesday, June 6, 2007 Page 13 Commissioner Wozniak noted that the math computations and diagrams, and sufficient understanding of them at this late hour was challenging; however, he opined that while he had originally been “on the fence” about this application, the neighbor comments had convinced him that this project was not appropriately transitional considering its proximity to single-family homes. Commissioner Wozniak expressed appreciation to Mr. Suh’s for his presentation of solar access rights, an issue that will be receiving more consideration in the future as the Commission reviewed applications. Commissioner Wozniak concluded by opining that this project was too large, and he would not support the proposal. Commissioner Doherty advised that, the Commission had a contract with residents, and if something was zoned R-1, that was part of the contract and the Commission didn’t drastically change zoning to R-6. Commissioner Doherty expressed profound concern with the total height of the structure, and reluctantly opined that he could not support it as presented. Commissioner Bakeman opined that the Comprehensive Plan takes priority. Commissioner Bakeman expressed disappointment that the twin homes were no longer a part of the proposal; and opined that they would have provided a transition for the neighbors. Commissioner Bakeman expressed strong support for the access road to the existing parking lot and Langton Lake Park; however, noted that the property had been represented in the Comprehensive Plan for more than twenty (20) years, and this was not a new plan. Commissioner Bakeman opined that the height is a hard transition from 1-1/2 story single-family homes, and that the twin homes would have helped that transition a great deal; however, further opined that the proposal met the Comprehensive Plan guidelines and caused her difficulty denying it. Commissioner Boerigter expressed his difficulty with this project as presented, and had anticipated voting for the project after reviewing the packet and original sketches. Commissioner Boerigter opined that this was a fine project, that it made sense to have the road in place and access secured for Langton Lake Park; however, given the mass and height of the proposed structure, not just due to the shadow study, but looking at the scaled perspectives representing the final size. Commissioner Boerigter noted his other focus transitioning from wetland to residential; and opined that he would have a tough time supporting the project as proposed, given the neighbor comments and the mass and height of the building. Commissioner Doherty noted that United had originally included twin homes, but to put the road and access to the park in place, they had compromised. Commissioner Boerigter further noted that there were access problems to the park with other sketches provided, and while not within the purview of ht Planning Commission and their consideration of land use issues, expressed concern that the applicant was now considering requesting public financing assistance for the project. Commissioner Martinson noted her indecision on the application; recognizing that the applicant was known for their beautifully maintained and well-managed properties; noted the public purpose served by the project in providing senior housing. However, Commissioner Martinson expressed concern with the large mass of the building compared to adjoining single-family homes and neighborhood characteristics; and opined that traffic impacts and increased volumes weren’t well thought out. Commissioner Doherty reiterated his lack of support for the project as presented. MOTION