5.2 PCSR 06-28-1994 ,k ) -\) AGENDA ITEM 5.2
tik/
y of
RiRiver
MEMORANDUM
TO: PLANNING COMMISSION
FROM: GARY SCHMITZ, PLANNING ASSIST. 6..ele
DATE: JUNE 28, 1994
SUBJECT: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
REQUEST BY SOLID ROCK CHURCH,
PUBLIC HEARING, CASE NO. CU 94-15
REQUEST
A conditional use permit to operate a school accommodating grades K-12
from the existing church facility.
LO CATION
•
Lots 1 through 8, Block 9, Brentwood Subdivision (11800-196 Ave, Elk River)
ZONING / LAND USE
R1A (Single Family Residential) / LR (Low Density Residential)
ATTACHMENTS
Letter from Terry Maurer dated June 21, 1994, Traffic Study prepared by
Benshoof& Assoc., Report to Planning Commission dated May 24, 1994
BACKGROUND
At the May 24, 1994, Planning Commission meeting, the Commission
continued the conditional use permit request by Solid Rock Church and
requested a traffic study be conducted to determine the impacts this request
would have on the local residential streets. Further, the Commission
requested staff research outstanding stipulations of past conditional use
permit requests. The attached report to the Planning Commission explains
the request in detail.
•
P.O. Box 490 • 13065 Orono Parkway • Elk River, MN 55330 • (612) 441-7420 • Fax: (612) 441-7425
Solid Rock Church Page 2
June 28, 1994
•
TRAFFIC STUDY
Attached is the traffic study conducted by Benshoof & Associates concerning
the addition of the proposed school to the church facility. Also attached is a
letter from Terry Maurer addressing the traffic study. The traffic analysis
concludes three separate points:
1. School operation will generate practically no traffic during the
p.m. peak periods given the closing of the school day at 2:30 p.m.
to 3 p.m.
2. Bus service for approximately 60% of the students will
significantly reduce the trip generation that would otherwise
occur.
3. The ultimate traffic volumes projected for the local roads
affected by this school will remain within the normal range of
residential streets, even at full enrollment estimated at 300
students.
. The traffic study seems to conclude that the addition of the proposed school to
the existing church should not significantly impact traffic on the residential
streets.
LANDSCAPING
As directed by the Planning Commission, staff has looked at the landscape
plan approved by the City Council with the original conditional use permit.
At the May 24, 1994, Planning Commission meeting, Solid Rock Church
mentioned that the landscape requirements along 195th Avenue seemed
excessive because they owned property on both sides of 195th Avenue,
therefore, screening would have little benefit in this area. Staff concurs with
the applicant that there appears to be adequate screening along 195th
Avenue, however, additional trees could be added along 196th Avenue to help
buffer the residential properties to the north. If this proposal is approved,
staff recommends that an updated landscape plan be resubmitted to staff
prior to the City Council meeting, which shows additional trees be planted
along 196th Avenue.
•
solid.pc
Solid Rock Church Page 3
June 28, 1994
•
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Planning Commission recommend approval of a
conditional use permit request by Solid Rock Church to operate a school
accommodating grades K-12 from the existing church facility with the
following conditions:
1. A MAXIMUM OF 300 STUDENTS BE ALLOWED TO
ATTEND THE SCHOOL.
2. ALL BUILDING AND FIRE CODE ISSUES BE
ADDRESSED PRIOR TO THE BUILDING BEING USED
FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES.
3. A REVISED LANDSCAPE PLAN BE SUBMITTED TO
STAFF PRIOR TO THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ILLUSTRATING RELOCATING THE PROPOSED TREES
FROM 195TH AVENUE TO THE NORTHERN BOUNDARY
OF THIS SITE ALONG 196TH AVENUE.
• 4. NO ON STREET PARKING WILL BE ALLOWED FOR
THE SCHOOL.
•
solid.pc
11 St
CONSULTING ENGINEERS
June 21, 1994
File: 230-231-11
Mr. Gary Schmitz
Planning Assistant
City of Elk River
13065 Orono Parkway
CIVIL ENGINEERING Elk River, MN 55330
ENVIRONMENTAL RE: SOLID ROCK CHURCH TRAFFIC STUDY ANALYSIS
MUNICIPAL Dear Mr. Schmitz:
PLANNING As requested, we have reviewed the traffic information provided by the Solid Rock Church
relative to their proposed school in their church building. The traffic analysis they submitted
STRUCTURAL was prepared by Benshoof& Associates, Inc.
SURVEYING The analysis indicates that it is expected the first year of school operation would have
approximately 100 students and 10 additional staff members. Within five years, a maximum
TRAFFIC of 300 students and 15 staff members would be anticipated. The analysis utilizes a typical
school day of 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with no extracurricular activities. Based on
TRANSPORTATION information obtained from the church staff and the Institute of Transportation Engineers, the
analysis estimates 10% of the students will drive themselves, 30% will receive rides, and
60% will be bused. Based on these assumptions, the first year of operation will result in 196
additional daily trips generated, and at full development this number rises to 514.
There are essentially three directions that traffic can use to enter and exit the site. These are
to the southeast along TH 169 and Jackson Avenue, to the northeast, again to TH 169, and
to the southwest along Highland Road. Figure 1 attached to the traffic analysis shows that
195th and 196th Avenues immediately adjacent to the church site would see the largest
percentage increase in traffic. However, both of these would still have a relatively small
1326 Energy Park Drive total traffic after full development of the school. The route along Irving to the southeast and
St.Paul,MN 55108 to the northeast would see a relatively large increase in traffic of approximately 55% at full
development. The northeast route would see a total traffic of approximately 872 daily trips
612-644-4389 under full development. To the southeast, the total volume would be 419 daily trips under
Fax:612-644-9446 full development. Both of these are well within the range of traffic carrying capacity of the
residential roads in the neighborhood.
• 9800 Shelard Parkway
Minneapolis,MN 55441
612-546-0432
Fax:612-544-6398
• Mr. Gary Schmitz
June 21, 1994
Page Two
The Benshoof traffic analysis concludes three separate points. They are as follows:
1. School operation will generate practically no traffic during the p.m. peak period,
given the closing of the school day at 2:30 - 3:00 p.m.
2. Bus service for approximately 60% of the students attending the school will
significantly reduce the trip generation that would otherwise occur.
3. The ultimate traffic volumes projected for the local roads affected by the school will
remain within the normal range of residential streets even at full enrollment,
estimated at 300 students.
We would concur with the conclusions reached by the Benshoof report and would
recommend that the report adequately addresses traffic issues raised by this proposed
development of a school within the Solid Rock Church. If you have any questions regarding
these comments, please call.
• Sincerely,
MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS
C- ' 1, �L/�e-Wr()
Terry J. Maurer, P.E.
TJM:tw
231-2005 un
111
BENSHOOF & ASSOCIATES, INC.
TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERS AND PLANNERS 3111 7 199
• 7301 OHMS LANE, SUITE 500/EDINA, MN 55439/(612) 832-9858/FAX(612)832-9564 ay'?+
June 17, 1994 REFER TO FILE: 94-21
MEMORANDUM
TO: Kim Vickroy, Solid Rock Church
A
FROM: James A. Benshoo and Edward F. TerhaarE
RE: Results of Traffic Analysis for Proposed School at Solid Rock Church
PURPOSE
The purpose of this memorandum is to present the traffic analysis for the proposed
school at the existing Solid Rock Church.
The traffic analysis and results presented in this memorandum are organized as follows:
• 1) Background Information. This includes information obtained from church
staff on enrollment projections and anticipated traffic characteristics of the
school. Daily traffic counts were also collected on adjacent roadways that will
be utilized for trips to and from the school.
2) Traffic Forecasts. Traffic forecasts were developed for the year after the
opening of the school as well as for the "full development" scenario.
3) Traffic Analysis. The ability of the adjacent roadways to accommodate the
additional traffic generated by the school was analyzed.
4) Conclusions
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Proposed School Information
The proposed K-12 school will be located within the existing church building and is
expected to have approximately 100 students and 10 additional staff people during the
first school year. The number of students could increase to a maximum of 300 and the
number of staff people to 15 within five years of opening, depending on the interest
level. The majority of the students are expected to come from the City of Elk River,
with smaller numbers coming from surrounding areas. Busing will be provided by the
Elk River School District to bring students to and from the school. The school day is
• expected to begin at 8:00 a.m. and end between 2:30 and 3:00 p.m., with no
extracurricular activities occurring at the school.
Mr. Kim Vickroy -2- June 17, 1994
• Traffic Counts
In order to analyze the traffic impacts of the proposed school, daily traffic counts were
needed on the surrounding roadways. Traffic counts were conducted over a 48 hour
period on June 13-15, 1994, on the following roadways: Irving St. south of the
northern leg of 197th Ave., 196th Ave. west of Irving St., 195th Ave. west of Irving
St., Lowell St. south of 195th Ave., Irving St. north of 194th Ave., and Holt St. north
of 193rd Ave. The 48 hour volumes were divided by two to determine the average
daily volume.
TRAFFIC FORECASTS
Trip Generation
Based on information obtained from church staff and from data published by the
Institute of Transportation Engineers, it was estimated that approximately 10 percent of
the students will drive themselves to and from school, 30 percent will receive rides
from others, and 60 percent will ride the bus. Applying these percentages to the
number of students and staff expected in the school one year after opening results in
196 daily trip ends generated. Applying the same percentages to the number of
students and staff expected for the full development scenario results in 514 daily trip
ends.
Trip Distribution and Assignment
Trip distribution percentages were estimated based on existing traffic patterns to and
from the church as described by church staff. It is estimated that approximately 60
percent of the trips generated by the school will be to/from the south on T.H. 169, 10
percent will be to/from the south on Jackson Ave., 20 percent will be to/from the north
on T.H. 169 and 10 percent will be to/from the west on Highland Rd. Of the trips
to/from the south on T.H. 169, it was estimated that 33 percent would use 192nd Ave.
and 67 percent 197th Ave to access the area. Applying the distribution percentages to
the expected number of generated trips and adding the resulting value to the existing
daily volumes results in expected daily volumes on the surrounding roadways. These
volumes are shown in Figure 1 for both the one year after opening scenario and the full
development scenario.
TRAFFIC ANALYSIS
Ability of Adjacent Roadways to Accommodate the School Traffic
The daily traffic volumes shown in Figure 1 show increases on all of the adjacent
roadways for both scenarios. All of the traffic volumes shown, both existing and
future, are well within the normal traffic volume range for residential streets.
1111
Ar 1: — 1
(41 %-.t a
e
,
-..r 564/682/872
•
196 fl, Irk Aw a
148/266/456 . cel
SITE
439/459/491 6 � 0
113/171/267
NsakIt1 194th AVE, 265/323/41 •;
0 I R
} bks , , �..
1 C.)
+h
1#d 2' AVE. N4 W. 489/547/643
192nd
LEGEND
Alt
EXISTING . '
ONE YEAR AFTER SCHOOL N
OPENS (100 STUDENTS)
FULL DEVELOPMENT OF scaLE
SCHOOL (300 STUDENTS)
XX/XX/XXt,i . I— -
0 1500' i
SOLID ROCK CHURCH FIGURE 1
TRAFFIC ANALYSIS
• FOR PROPOSED SCHOOL DAILY TRAFFIC
BENSHOOF ASSOCIATES,INC. VOLUMES
TRANSPORTATIONENGINEERSANDPLANNERS
Mr. Kim Vickroy -4- June 17, 1994
• CONCLUSIONS
Three principal conclusions that we have established from this traffic analysis are:
. The school will be in operation from about 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. As such,
the school will generate practically no traffic during the late afternoon period
when traffic volumes on nearby roadways would be at their peak levels.
. Availability of bus service for students attending the school will significantly
reduce the trip generation from that which otherwise would occur.
. Traffic volumes on local roadways affected by the school will remain within the
normal range for residential streets, even if the school reaches an ultimate
enrollment of 300 students.
On an overall basis, we have determined that the proposed school will not significantly
affect the safety or ease of traffic movement on any of the nearby local streets.
•
•
,_(_/ -\ GENDA ITEM 5.5
(
e0Ap.ity of ' O
1k7: fiver
MEMORANDUM
TO: PLANNING COMMISSION
FROM: GARY SCHMITZ, PLANNING ASSIST. C,------ _,
DATE: MAY 24, 1994
SUBJECT: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
REQUEST BY SOLID ROCK CHURCH,
PUBLIC HEARING, CASE NO. CU 94-15
REQUEST
A conditional use permit to operate a school accommodating grades K-12 _.
from the existing church facility.
• LOCATION
Lots 1-8, Block 9, Brentwood Subdivision (11800-196th Avenue, Elk River)
ZONING/LAND USE
Ria (Single Family Residential)/ LR (Low Density Residential)
ATTACHMENTS
Location Map, Zoning Map, Site Plan, Letter from Applicant, Minutes dated
June 18, 1984, November 21, 1988, November 19, 1990, July 15, 1991, and
July 19, 1993
BACKGROUND
Solid Rock Church, formerly known as Elk River Assembly of God, is
requesting a conditional use permit to operate a school accommodating
grades K-12, in the lower level of the existing church facility. Institutional
uses are a conditional use in all residential zoning district.
0
P.O. Box 490 • 13065 Orono Parkway • Elk River, MN 55330 • (612) 441-7420 • Fax: (612) 441-7425
Solid Rock Church Page 2
May 24, 1994
.
HISTORY
Elk River Assembly of God received approval for a conditional use permit in
1984 to construct a church in the Brentwood Subdivision. There have been
numerous requests by the church throughout the past ten years on a wide
variety of topics. The following lists these requests:
• June 18, 1984 - received approval to construct a new church within the
Brentwood Subdivision.
• November 21, 1988 - a conditional use permit was received to operate a
daycare facility for eighteen (18) children from the church parsonage.
• November 19, 1990 - a conditional use permit was denied by the City
Council to operate a licensed daycare facility for up to one hundred (100)
children from the existing church.
• July 15, 1991 - a conditional use permit was denied by the City Council to
operate a licensed daycare facility for up to fifty-nine (59) children from
the existing church.
• July 19, 1993 - a conditional use permit was received to convert an
• existing garage into a single family dwelling and to add additional
signage. At this time the church also changed its name to Solid Rock
Church.
The daycare center conditional use permit proposals in 1990 and 1991 were
denied for a variety of reasons as noted in the attached minutes. The two
main concerns voiced by the surrounding property owners, Planning
Commission, City Council, and staff were related to traffic and the
outstanding stipulations from the original conditional use permit. The
outstanding stipulations from the original conditional use permit have been
addressed by the church with the exception of some trees, which are required
to be planted along 195th Avenue. If this proposal is approved staff
recommends the trees be planted prior to occupying the building for
educational purposes.
SCHOOL
Solid Rock Church is requesting to operate a school accommodating grades K-
12 from the lower level of the existing church. According to a letter from
Senior Pastor Bill Matthews, the lower level of the church could
accommodate a maximum of 250-300 students. The church anticipates that
• approximately 100-150 students could attend the school for the 1994-95
school year.
solid.pc
Solid Rock Church Page 3
May 24, 1994
•
PARKING
The parking ordinance requires that elementary and junior high schools are
required to provide two parking spaces for each classroom. Senior high
schools require one parking stall per classroom plus one stall for each five
students, based upon design capacity. Staff has not received a breakdown
from the church concerning the number of children in these categories. The
existing church has 288 parking stalls, which appears to be sufficient to
accommodate the parking demands of the school. It is anticipated that the
teachers and students that drive will use the parking lots along the south
and west sides of the building.
HOURS OF OPERATION
The hours of operation of the school will be very similar to the hours of the
public schools (8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.). No night classes are being proposed by
the church, however, the church does hold different types of assembly
meetings during the evenings. Extra circular activities, such as sports, will
be restricted due to the limited space of the school.
• BUILDING CODE
The applicant has been working with Building Official Cliff Skogstad to
upgrade the lower level to meet the required "E" occupancy for educational
uses. The lower level was originally designed to accommodate a school,
therefore, many of the building codes have already been addressed. It should
be noted that only interior modifications to the lower level are planned with
this request. No exterior changes to the building or grounds are being
proposed. If this proposal is approved, staff recommends a condition of
approval be that the church work with the Building Official to ensure all
building code issues are addressed prior to using the facility for educational
purposes.
INSTITUTIONAL USES
Institutional uses are considered a conditional use in all single family zoning
districts. Virtually every school in the City of Elk River is located in a
residential area, therefore, the request by Solid Rock Church would be
consistent with other schools in the city. The one major difference with this
proposal is that most of the existing schools are located on collector streets
which are designed to handle a larger volume of traffic.
•
solid.pc
Solid Rock Church Page 4
May 24, 1994
•
TRAFFIC
The majority of the traffic generated by such a use would be between the
hours of 7:30 - 8 a.m. and 3:30 - 4 p.m. Most students will be using the bus
services provided by the school district, however, it is anticipated that some
high school students will drive to school and others will be dropped off and
picked up by parents.
Traffic concerns have been a major issue of the surrounding residents and the
city since the church was built in 1984. The attached minutes from previous
meetings reflect this concern. There is no doubt that the addition of a 250-
300 student school will generate additional traffic to this area. However,
staff is unsure at this time what the traffic impacts will be. Staff has
discussed the traffic issue with City Engineer Terry Maurer . It was the
consensus of the City Engineer and staff that a traffic study should be
conducted by the applicant so that traffic issues can be thoroughly
researched. Therefore, staff would recommend that this item be continued
until the June 28, 1994, Planning Commission meeting, which should give
the applicant enough time to complete the traffic study.
• RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended the Planning Commission continue this item until the
June 28, 1994, Planning Commission meeting allowing the applicant time to
provide staff with a traffic study addressing the potential impacts of the
proposed school.
•
solid.pc
City Council Minutes 110
June 18 , 1984-
Page Five
c+
•
of the City. Councilmember Engstrom indicated that he felt the City has more
than enough commercial zoned area at the present.
Councilmember Schuldt indicated .that it was obvious that the zone change request
would not be approved and further indicated that it could come back to the City
Council again at a different time, perhaps with a new City. Council and a different
proposal . Councilmember Schuldt further indicated that he felt the property
would not remain zoned residential. Councilmember .Schuldt. indicated that he
felt that some time in the future, the property would be zoned commercial and
the City Council should consider what would be the most tolerable use of a
commercial zone. Councilmember Schuldt indicated that he did have reservations
regarding the proposed use as a car wash and further indicated that he felt
there were some better options for the property.
COUNCILME:B ER GUNKEL MOVED TO DENY THE ZONE CHANGE REQUEST BY MR. GEORGE DIETZ
FOR HIS PROPERTY ON HIGHWAY #169 AND ELK HILLS DRIVE . COUNCILMEMBER ENGSTROM
SECONDED
Mr. Jim Neilson requested that the City Council consider tabling the zone change
request until such time as the full Council was present.
Councilmember Schuldt indicated that the City Council has considered carrying
over other issues which required a four-fifths vote until such time as the full
Council was present and therefore, felt the City Council should consider tabling
this request.
qr. The residents of Elk Hills Addition in attendance at the City Council meeting
• expressed their opposition of the suggestion to table the consideration of the
zone change request.
THE MOTION PASSED 4-0.
Mayor Hinkle requested that the City Administrator start proceedings with the
Minnesota Department of Transportation for installation of a traffic signal
light at Highway #169 and School Street.
O b'1�F or.Ga CoQai7LO l~wiTse732eiinittE-dijt est?=='Public='Hearing
Mayor Hinkle indicated that the Elk River Assembly of God Church has requested
a conditional use permit to allow them to construct a church within the Brentwood
Subdivision. Mayor Hinkle indicated that the zoning ordinance requires that a
conditional use permit be issued for'• churches constructed in residential zones.
Mayor Hinkle indicated that the Planning Commission reviewed the Assembly of
God 's request for a conditional use and .recommended that the City Council grant
the conditional use permit with a number of conditions as stated in the City
Administrator's memorandum to the Mayor and City Council dated June 12, 1984.
The Assembly of God 's engineer reviewed the proposed building plans for the
City Council . The engineer indicated that the building will be constructed in
• two phases to allow for a total of 1 ,200 people with 297 parking spaces. Discussionwas carried on regarding the design of the building and the fact that a concrete
building is proposed because of the number of people it is proposed to serve .
Discussion was also carried on regarding the use of the building during phase
one and phase two .
City Council Minutes
June 18, 1984
Page Six
Mr. Dexter Mapson, representative of the Assembly of God Church indicated that
• when phase two was completed, the phase one portion of the building would be
' used as classroom and gym.
Mr . Roy Wallace of 196th Circle, indicated that he felt the proposed building
• .. design looked like an industrial building rather than a building that was suitable
to 'a residential area.
Ms . Teresa Russell of 11930 196th Circle, indicated that she was not aware of
the fact that a portion of the building would be used for a school and gym.
Therefore, she was very concerned about the traffic through the residential area.
Ms . Russell indicated that the possibility of a church and therefore, excess
traffic one day a week was a lot different than seven days use of the building.
Discussion was also carried on. regarding the proposed size of the building.
Discussion was carried on regarding the present parsonage and fellowship hall .
Mr. Jeff Pelter indicated that when he bought his lot in the Brentwood Addition,
. there were certain covenants that were included. in the agreement . Mr. Pelter
further indicated that in the purchase of his property, it was indicated by
2, Mr. Denny'Anderson, developer of the Brentwood Addition, that the development
was platted for all single-family residential lots. .
Discussion was carried on regarding the convenants as proposed by the developer,
? Mr. Denny;Anderson.
t7 ,
The City Admininstrator indicated that the City cannot enforce convenants and
that it would be a. civil matter between the purchaser and the developer.
Discussion was carried on regarding the conditions of the conditional use as
recommended by the Planning Commission. Discussion was also carried on regarding
the phasing of the building and the possibility of phase two never happening. .
Further discussion was carried on regarding the financing of the proposed church ,
and the . construction and design of the church .
•
The City Administrator indicated that the City Council could .require a letter
of credit or an escrow account for the alteration of phase one to make it more
compatible with the neighborhood, should phase two not happen.
Councilmember Gunkel suggested that the City Council consider five years from the
initial start of phase 1 , that if phase two is not completed, the church would
be required to do a face lift of phase one.
•
COUNCILMEM3ER GUNKEL MOVED TO APPROVE A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE ELK RIVER
ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH TO ALLOW THEM TO. CONSTRUCT A NFW .CHURCH WITHIN THE BRENTWOOD
SUBDIVISION WITH THE CONDITIONS AS STATED IN THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR'S MEMOR-
ANDUM TO TEE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL DATED JUNE .12, 1984 AND TO REQUIRE THE
• ✓ ESTABLISHMENT OF AN ESCROW ACCOUNT OR TEE SUBMSTION OF A LETTER OF CREDIT WHICH
WOULD FINANCE THE, UPGRADING OF PHASE ONE SHOULD PHASE TWO NOT BE BUILT. COUNCIL-
) ' MEMBER SCHLZDT SECONDED THE MOTION . THE MOTION PASSED 3-0 .
7. Busch Conditional Use Permit Request - Public Hearing
•
Councilmember Engstrom indicated that Paul and Donna Busch of 620 7th Street have
requested a conditonal use permit to allow them to place a mobile home on ten
1110
Page 2
City Council Minutes
• November 21. 1988
5. 1. Conditional Use Permit/Northstar Service Center/Public Hearing
Mayor Gunkel indicated that this item was tabled by the Planning
Commission.
Mayor Gunkel opened and closed the public hearing as this item was
advertised as a public hearing in the Elk River Star News.
5.2. Conditional Use Permit/Elk River Plaza Shopping Center/Public Hearin
Mayor Gunkel indicated that this item was tabled by the Planning
Commission.
Mayor Gunkel opened and closed the public hearing as this item was
advertised as a public hearing in the Elk River Star News.
5.3. Conditional Use Permit/Reach Up Inc./Public Hearing •
Mayor Gunkel indicated that Reach—up, Inc. of St. Cloud is requesting a
conditional use permit to allow the operation of a daycare at the Elk
River Assembly of God Church.
. Steve Bjork, Zoning Assistant, indicated that the request is for 18
children, two different times a day, Tuesday through Friday. He
indicated the children would be bussed to and from the site and that the
program is a nonprofit organization.
Planning Commission representative, Peter Kimball, explained that the
Planning Commission had received concerns regarding traffic, the number
of children and the fact that there will be no playground area. He
indicated the Planning Commission discussed these concerns and set
conditions in its recommendation to approve the request addressing these
concerns.
Mayor Gunkel opened the public hearing. There being no one for or
against the matter, Mayor Gunkel closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Tralle arrived at this time (7:20 p.m.) .
COUNCILMEMBER HOLMGREN MOVED TO", APPROVE THE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
REQUEST BY REACH—UP DAYCARE TO OPERATE A DAYCARE AT 19575 LOWELL AVENUE
NORTH CONTINGENT ON THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. THE DAYCARE IS TO TAKE PLACE IN THE PARSONAGE BUILDING,
2. THE DAYCARE IS ALLOWED A MAXIMUM OF 18 CHILDREN AT ONE TIME.
• 3. THE HOURS OF OPERATION SHALL BE FROM 8:30 A.M. TO 2120 P.M. , MONDAY
THROUGH FRIDAY, TWO SESSIONS PER DAY.
4. PROVIDE ONE OFF—STREET PARKING STALL FOR EACH DAYCARE OTAfF MEM EA
AND TWO ADDITIONAL, PARKING STALLS.
Page 3
• City Council Minutes
November 21, 1988
5 . THE CHILDREN MUST BE BUSSED TO THE SITE. IN THE EVENT THAT BUSSING
IS DISCONTINUED, THE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT WILL NEED TO BE REVIEWED
TO ADDRESS ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC AND PARKING CONCERNS.
6. THE DAYCARE MUST RECEIVE APPROVAL TO OPERATE FROM THE STATE FIRE
MARSHALL AND CITY BUILDING OFFICIAL.
7 . THE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT WILL BE REVIEWED AFTER TWO YEARS.
COUNCILMEMB ER DOBEL SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
5.4. Preliminary Plat Review/Deerfield 4th/Public Hearing
Mayor Gunkel indicated that this item was tabled by the Planning
Commission.
Mayor Gunkel opened and closed the public hearing as this was advertised
as a public hearing in the newspaper.
5.5. Determination of Amortization Period
• Steve Bjork, Zoning Assistant, stated that Julius Reinherz is requesting
a determination by the Board of Zoning Adjustment for the amortization of
a nonconforming structure located in the Heavenly Hills. subdivision. He
noted that the applicant is proposing to locate a prototype injection
mold making business within this building. The building is located in an
A-1 zone and this type of operation is not a permitted or conditional use
in this zone. Mr. Bjork indicated that the amortization period for this
building is ten years which expires September 4, 1990. He further stated
that the City Code has four different amortization schedules which are as
follows: 40 years for ordinary wood construction, 50 years for wood and
masonry; 60 years for fireproof; and 10 years for any other buildings
not indicated. Mr. Reinherz felt that the building could be classified
as fireproof, therefore giving the building a 60 year amortization
period. The Building Official indicated that the building could not be
classified as fireproof, therefore, the 10 year amortization period was
assigned for this,building.
Mayor Gunkel indicated she was against the request because it does not
meet the City planning goals or the- intent of the ordinance.
Mr. Reinherz indicated that the business would be very subdued. He
further explained his business and stated his intention to screen the
building. He indicated that he could not afford to purchase property in
the industrial park.
• Mayor Gunkel indicated that the Council has had numerous requests from
other people in the Heavenly Hills area to build agricultural buildings
over the 1,000 square foot maximum size. She stated the Council has
denied these requests in order to be consistent on the use of these
buildings .
Elk River City Council Minutes 11111
Page 3
November 19, 1990
5.5 . Main Street Bridge
Terry Maurer, City Engineer, stated that the City has recently received
approval from the Federal Highway Administration to proceed with the
Main Street bridge replacement.
COUNCILMEMBER KROPUENSKE MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 90-65, A RESOLUTION
ORDERING THE PREPARATION OF A DESIGN STUDY REPORT IN THE MATTER OF THE
MAIN STREET BRIDGE IMPROVEMENT. COUNCILMEMBER HOLMGREN SECONDED THE
MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 3-0.
Mayor Tralle indicated that there will be a public hearing regarding
this matter, if one is requested in writing to the City Administrator
by a citizen.
5.6. Dredging Update
Terry Maurer indicated that the City Street Superintendent has
coordinated the probing of Lake Orono to determine the depth of organic
sediments. According to the information collected by the probing, the
total sentiment appears to be 500,000 cubic yards. He indicated that
prior to this probing, it was assumed that the sediments would be about
2,500,000 cubic yards. The City engineer suggested that an
• informational meeting be held with the area residents around the first
of the year to discuss costs. The Council concurred with the City
Engineer.
5.7. Proctor Avenue Update
Terry Maurer informed the Council that the County Board has moved to
redesign Proctor Avenue and has requested the City of Elk River's
services in this project. He stated that the project would be in line
for 1991 construction. It was the consensus of the Council to work
together with the County on this project.
6.1. Conditional Use Permit Request by Assembly of God Church/Public
Hearing
Janelle Szklarski, Zoning Assistant, indicated that the Elk River
Assembly of God church is requesting a conditional use permit to
operate a licensed daycare facility for up to 100 children in an R-1A
zoning district. Ms. Szklarski indicated that at the Planning
Commission meeting regarding this item, several residents from the
Brentwood area were present with concerns regarding traffic and the
number of children to be in the daycare.
Al Nadeau, Planning Commission representative, stated that the Planning
Commission recommended denial of the request based on the following
findings of fact:
• 1. That the use would have an adverse impact p on the surrounding
neighborhood due to traffic and the commercial nature of the use.
Elk River City Council Minutes Page 4
• November 19, 1990
2. That the applicants are not incompliance with the stipulations of
their previous conditional use permit.
3. Testimony from residents regarding the adverse impact on property
values and maintenance of the residential nature of the
neighborhood.
4. Safety concerns relating to additional traffic in the residential
neighborhood.
Mayor Tralle opened the public hearing.
Dexter Mapson, representing the Elk River Assembly of God Church, was
present. He stated that the daycare originally would only have about
25 to 30 children and would eventually would work its way up to larger
numbers.
Mr. Mapson responded to the Planning Commission's concern regarding not
meeting the conditions of the prior conditional use permit. He stated
that one of the conditions was storage of materials on the site. He
indicated that they are using semi trailers to store material because
they have not been given permission by the City to build a building
• large enough for the storage of these materials. He also responded to
the condition regarding striping of the parking lot. Mr. Mapson
indicated that the parking lot would be striped. Mr. Mapson responded
to the traffic concern. He stated that the main traffic comes off of
the highway.
Mr. John Large of 19490 Lowell Avenue stated that he was concerned with
the traffic on 194th and Lowell and also voiced his concern regarding
the speed in that area. He indicated that a daycare would add more
traffic to the area and further stated that he would like to see the
traffic slowed down in that area. Janelle Szklarski indicated that
speed limit signs for Lowell Avenue have been ordered and should be
posted soon.
There being no further comments from the public, Mayor Tralle closed
the public hearing.
COUNCILMEMBER HOLMGREN MOVED TO DENY THE REQUEST FOR A CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT TO OPERATE A LICENSED DAYCARE FACILITY AT THE ELK RIVER ASSEMBLY
OF GOD CHURCH DUE TO THE FINDINGS OF FACT PREVIOUSLY LISTED
COUNCILMEMBER KROPUENSKE SECONDED THE MOTION.
Mayor Tralle stated that the placing of a large commercial
establishment in a residential area and the impact of the traffic to
the surrounding property owners were his main reasons for voting
• against the conditional use permit.
THE MOTION CARRIED 3-0.
6.2. & 6.3. Zone Change Requests by Hohlen and Cornelius/Public Hearing
11111
City Council Minutes Page 7
July 15, 1991
• Janelle Szklarski, Zoning Assistant, stated that John Plaisted is
requesting a variance which would allow two free-standing signs to be
combined into one sign. The variance would allow the total square
footage of the free-standing sign to be increased from 128 square feet
to 300 square feet. She indicated that Mr. Plaisted is proposing a
comparable reduction in the amount of wall signage.
Rita Johnson, Planning Commission Representative, stated that the
Planning Commission recommended denial of the variance request for a
300 square foot free-standing sign. • She further indicated that the
Planning Commission recommended approval of a 256 square . foot
free-standing sign not to exceed 15 .feet in height. with the condition
that the wall signage be limited to a total of 128 square feet and that
none of the wall signage be put on the east side of the building. . Rita
Johnson explained that the Planning. Commission . recommended approval of
the 256 square feet of a free-standing sign because of the fact that
the location of the trees on the east side of the building make it
difficult for the applicant to utilize the wall signage allowed without
removing the trees and further that a free-standing sign could be
placed within a small clearing in the trees to gain visibility from
Highway 169.
Mayor Tralle opened the public hearing. There being no one for or
against the matter, Mayor Tralle closed the public hearing.
• COUNCILMEMBER SCHULDT MOVED TO APPROVE THE VARIANCE REQUEST BY JOHN
PLAISTED TO ALLOW A 256 SQUARE FOOT FREE-STANDING SIGN NO TO EXCEED 15
. • FEET IN HEIGHT WITH THE CONDITION THAT THE WALL SIGNAGE BE LIMITED TO A
. TOTAL OF 128 SQUARE FEET AND THAT NONE OF THE' WALL SIGNAGE BE PUT ON
• THE EAST SIDE OF THE BUILDING AND FURTHER THAT 50% OF THE TREES NOT BE
CUT DOWN. COUNCILMEMBER EROPUENSKE SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 4-0.
The Council recessed at 8:40 p.m. and reconvened at 8:55 p.m.
6.5. Conditional Use Permit by Assembly of God Church/Public Hearing
Janelle Szklarski, Zoning Assistant; .indicated that..the Assembly of God
Church is requesting a conditional use-.-permit to operate a daycare
facility for up to 59 children. in a R-la . zoning district at . the
Assembly of God Church located at...11800 .196th Avenue NW. Janelle
Szklarski further statedthat :.this.:item. has•..previously. been tabled by
both the Planning Commission and the City. Council - and that at the April
23 Planning Commission meeting, the Planning ...Commission _recommended
denial. She explained that several concerns were.-sraised•:by. residents
and by the Planning Commission which- related .to - cleanup -of .the: site,
excessive traffic with the daycare center, and landscaping. Janelle
Szklarski indicated that cleanup has._been..accomplished,. but _landscaping
is still an issue. She indicated :..that . the.. -City must receive an
• accurate site plan . from the Assembly . of_-God.. .Church. -She'. further
indicated that she would like to ' .see..:: compliance of the previous
conditional use permit encouraged by the City Council.
Mayor Tralle opened the public hearing.
City Council Minutes Page 9
July 15, 1991
•
Julie Goldemann indicated that the Church Pastor is willing to work
with the residents concerning the daycare.
The Senior Pastor of the Church, indicated that the Church fully
intends to comply with the City and the Council.
Thor Johnson, Youth Pastor, apologized for the Church's previous track
record and indicated that there is a need for a children ministry in
the City of Elk River.
Gladys Skogins, Daycare Center Teacher, indicated that she sees a need
for a Christian daycare in the City of Elk River.
There being no further comments from the public, Mayor Tralle closed
the public hearing.
Councilmember Schuldt stated that he feels the Church is requesting to
put a commercial daycare center in a single family neighborhood. He
indicated that this would set a precedent in other single family
neighborhoods.
Councilmember Dietz indicated that the Church should be given a chance
with the daycare center and if the conditional use permit is not met,
then it could be pulled within a year.
COUNCILMEMBER SCHULDT MOVED TO DENY THE REQUEST FOR A
CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT TO OPERATE A DAYCARE CENTER FROM THE ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH.
MAYOR TRALLE SECONDED THE MOTION.
Mayor Tralle stated that he sees this venture as a commercial
- enterprise. He further indicated that the Council has been deceived by
the Church in the past and there are conditions on the previous
conditional use permit that have been outstanding for three or four
years.
Councilmember Kropuenske stated that this conflict will continue to be
present in residential areas. In the future, the City Council and •
Planning Commission should look at where conditional use permits are
allowed for churches.
Dave Sellergren, City Attorney, reminded the Council that the issue
before them is a land use impact..issue.
THE MOTION CARRIED 3-1 . Councilmember Dietz opposed.
6.6. Administrative Subdivision by CreQ Dance/Public Hearing'
Steve Rohlf, Building and Zoning Administrator, indicated that Creg
Dance, of 19276 Twin Lakes Road, is. requesting an administrative
• subdivision to divide an 11 .78 acre parcel into two parcels of land.
Mayor Tralle opened the public hearing. There being no one for or
against the matter, Mayor Tralle closed. the public hearing.
��- Elk River City Co'_. _1 Minutes
July 19, 1003 Page 5
• 12. THE SITE SERVE AS AN OIL DROP-OFF SITE FOR THE CO2MUNITY.
13. STAFF RESEARCH ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS, POSSIBLY INCLUDING A
BELOW THE BASEMENT SLAB. LINER
COUNCILZWMBER SCHEEL SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
6.2. Amendment to a Conditional Use Permit by Assembly of God Church/P.H.
Case No. CU-93-16
Steve Rohlf stated that the Assembly of God Church is requesting an
amendment to a conditional use permit to convert an existing garage
into a dwelling. A conditional use permit is required because there
will be more than one principle building on a lot. Steve Rohlf
explained that the Assembly of God Church is also requesting wall
signage totalling 91-1/2 square feet with the letters of the sign being
internally lit.
Vice Mayor Dietz opened the public hearing.
Perry Mason, 11847 196th Avenue, stated that all the Planning
Commission's concerns have been taken care of. He further indicated he
did not approve of the signage request. He indicated that the neon
sign does not fit in a residential area and that he is opposed to the
•
neon sign.
• Steve Rohlf, Building and Zoning Administrator, stated
he sin
will only be visible from the east and will not affect texisting
residents. He further indicated that the sign is allowed by the
current City Ordinance.
There being no further comments from the public, Vice Mayor Dietz
closed the public hearing.
COUNCILMEMBER SCHEEL MOVED THAT THE CHURCH BE ALLOWED THE LIGHTED SIGN
AND THAT THE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT BE GRANTED. VICE MAYOR DIETZ
SECONDED THE MOTION.
Councilmember Farber stated he had a problem with the neon sign at
night in a residential area.
Councilmember Holmgren requested that the sign be turned off at 10:00
p.m. ,.
The Pastor of Elk River Assembly of God Church indicated that the
letters on the- sign are plastic and that the lighting would not be
offensive.
Councilmember Scheel withdrew her motion. Vice
ce Mayor Dietz withdrew
second.
• COUNCILMEMBER SCHEEL MOVED TO APPROVE THE AMENDMENT
USE PERMIT WHICH WOULD ALLOW THE ASSEMBLY OF GOD URCHO TOy CONNVERTONAL AN
EXISTING GARAGE INTO A DWELLING WITH THE FOLLOWING STIPULATIONS:
(a*a , - Elk River City Counca- .-inutes
Page 6
July 19, 1993
.y' 1. THE GARAGE PROPOSED TO BE CONVERTED INTO A HOUSE SHALL MEET ALL
APPLICABLE CODES INCLUDING A BUILDING PERMIT, PERC TEST, ETC. , AND
THAT THE HOUSE NOT BE DIVIDED INTO INDIVIDUAL UNITS, BUT AS ONE
SINGLE FAMILY HOME.
2. THE REMAINDER OF THE OUTSTANDING STIPULATIONS FOR THE CHURCH ARE
COMPLETED IN THE SUMMER OF 1993.
3. NO OUTSIDE STORAGE BE ALLOWED.
4. THE PROPOSED CROSS OF 8'H x 4'W BE ALLOWED.
VICE MAYOR DIETZ SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
COUNCILMEMBER SCHEEL MOVED TO CONTINUE A DECISION ON THE SIGNAGE FOR
THE ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH UNTIL THE AUGUST 2 COUNCIL MEETING.
COUNCILMEMBER FARBER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
6.4. Extension of a Conditional Use Permit for a Convenience Store/Gas
Station by Ken Beaudry/P.H. Case No. CU-91-02
Steve Rohlf indicated that Ken Beaudry received a conditional use
permit two years ago to build a convenience store and gas station on
• the northeast corner of the intersection of Proctor Avenue and Highway
10. He stated that Mr. Beaudry is requesting an extension of that
conditional use permit as he has received financing and is ready to
build. Steve Rohlf indicated that the Planning Commission reviewed the
request and recommended approval of the extension.
Steve Rohlf indicated that the Planning Commission did not review the
possibility of the extension of Oxford Avenue to Proctor Avenue. He
requested that the Council consider this possibility. The Council
reviewed three maps presented by staff which explained different
versions of the extension of Oxford Avenue. Steve Rohlf indicated that
City staff recommends that the road not be extended.
Terry Maurer, City Engineer, indicated that the City's Comprehensive
Transportation Plan indicates that Proctor Avenue will be a major
traffic connector and stated he has concerns with the right-in off of
Proctor Avenue. He suggested that the access off of Proctor be - as far
to the north as possible.
Mary Eberley, Planning Commission Representative, indicated that the
Planning Commission had traffic concerns regarding this parcel in 1990,
and, at that time, discussed combining all the parcels in that area
into one parcel.
Ken Beaudry indicated that he would not have time to go through the
• process of combining parcels as timing is critical with his financing.
Discussion was held by the Council regarding a turn lane off of Highway
10 onto 6th Street (before Proctor Avenue) and who would be ' responsible
for the payment of this turn lane improvement project.