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Planning Commission Meeting Minutes – Wednesday, August 01, 2007 Page 6 Vice Chair Doherty advised spoke in support of the ROW vacation, noting that for the last twenty (20) years, there had been no impetus to do a study, and by moving the decision- making process to the City Council, it energized residents to speak their minds, whether for or against, rather than allowing the Planning Commission to make the decision for them by denying the ROW vacation, without providing resident-supported decision making. Commissioner Gottfried noted that he had originally been supportive of the ROW vacation request; however, with the concerns raised by Mr. Arntzen, he was reconsidering his opinion. Commissioner Gottfried questioned why the City didn’t maintain the property. Ms. Bloom apologized, however noted that this was one of many excess rights-of-way in the City, and that there were not adequate financial or manpower resources to manicure all of them. Mr. Paschke noted that a right-of-way was no different than a boulevard, with adjoining residents usually adopting them, noting the many similar properties maintained by residents throughout the City. Commissioner Gottfried questioned if action could be held until staff and the neighbors had an opportunity to further review it and come to consensus among the neighborhood. Commissioner Gottfried questioned if residents of the trailer park had access to the cul- de-sac or Rose Place. Ms. Bloom responded negatively, noting that their access was only onto Lexington. Commissioner Gottfried recognized access concerns, and suggested that no action be taken tonight, and that this issue be brought back to the Planning Commission at their September 5, 2007 meeting for the neighbors to bring their collective concerns forward to staff and Commissioners. Mr. Paschke advised that the Planning Commission had three options: to continue Planning File 07-045 for one month to a date specific (September 5, 2007); approve the ROW vacation; or deny the ROW vacation. Mr. Paschke advised that continuing the case would rely on residents to get together and form a group to address their collective neighborhood concerns. Mr. Paschke further advised that by continuing the case, the Planning Commission could direct staff to follow-up with residents; and encouraging residents to provide their concerns to City Engineer Bloom so she could review and consider their comments in seeking resolution. Ms. Bloom clarified that she could project impacts of a connection, but not a cut-through, as Oakcrest Avenue was a state-aid road. Commissioner Gottfried opined his support for traffic calming methods whenever available, and was not supportive of a cut-through street. Vice Chair Doherty reiterated that it was the responsibility of the neighbors to come out for or against; noting that without that input the Commission would be in no better position for decision-making at the next meeting. MOTION Member Gottfried moved, seconded by Member Gasongo to CONTINUE to September 5, 2007, Planning File 07-045, a portion of Rose Place RIGHT-OF-WAY VACATION, for Alan Livingston, 2574 Dunlap Street, to allow residents of Dunlap Street, Rose Place, cul-de-sac, street and affected areas for potential routes to make their case in support of or opposition to the proposed variance by petition, e- mail, letter, or public comment; to also provide their opinion on inclusion of a five foot (5’) pathway easement as a condition of any vacation approval.