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January 12, 1995 Steering Committee MinutesMEETING OF THE ELK RIVER STEERING COMMITTEE HELD AT ELK RIVER CITY HALL THURSDAY, JANUARY 12,1995 Members Present: Chairman Minton, Committee Members: Hank Duitsmon, Dick Hinkle, Mary McDevitt, Lloyd Barthel, Arne Engstrom, Chris Kreger, Dave Anderson, Mark Lucas, Mary Eberley, Marly Glines, Pat Dwyer, Merry Sipe and Bill Birrenkott. Members Absent: Committee Member Keith Holme Staff Present: Steve Ach, City Planner 1. Call Meeting To Order The January 12, 1995 meeting of the Elk River Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Minton. 2. Consider Steering Committee Agenda DICK HINKLE MOVED TO APPROVE THE 1/12/95 STEERING COMMITTEE AGENDA. CHRIS KREGER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 7-0. 3. Consider Steering Committee Minutes PAT DWYER MOVED TO APPROVE THE 12/1/95 STEERING COMMITTEE MINUTES. CHRIS KREGER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 8-0. 4. Introduction of Southeast Planning Area 4.1. General Characteristics Overview of the Southeast Planning Area provided by Steve Ach. Maps were provided for location of the following: -The Southeast Planning Area boundaries - Cargill, Specht, Baldwin and Kelly Farm properties -Developed residential properties -Tree masses -Floodplains, shorelands, wetlands -Residential zoned property The Southeast Planning Area is bordered by 197th on the north, Tyler Street alignment and the Mississippi River on the West, and the City limits on the east; approximately 6,000 acres in size. Three main transportation routes divide the Planning area -Highway 10, Country Road #12 and Country Road #13. Cargill, Specht, Baldwin and the State of Minnesota control a majority of the property along East Highway 10 and play an important role in the extension of sewer and Steering Committee Minutes January 12, 1995 Page 2 water into this area. Steve Ach noted that the Southeast Planning Area wetlands and large tree masses can be used as amenities in residential development. 4.2. Inventory of Land Uses Steve provided and inventory of residential, commercial and industrial property in the Southeast Planning Area. 4.3. Sewer Extensions At a previous meeting, City Engineer Terry Maurer, presented a preliminary feasibility study to extend city sewer and water east along Highway 10, The study included a "primary" and an "ultimate" study area. Steve explained that as a result of the study, it was determined that it is possible to serve the entire area with city water and sewer. 4.4. Land Use/Zoning Issues The Southeast Planning Area has one residential zoning district which is R1 a, with a minimum lot size of 2-1/2 acres. Steve Ach explained that the limited number of 2-1/2 acre subdivisions in this planning area would make it easier to extend city sewer and water, when compared with the northern area. Steve noted the importance of identifying the ultimate city sewer and water service area, so that appropriate zoning can be established. Steve explained that a moratorium was passed by the City Council to prevent subdivisions of land into parcels of less than 10 acres. Another issue is to determine the specific boundaries of commercial and industrial zoning on both the north and south side of East Highway 10, and how these areas will be affected by decisions regarding city sewer and water extensions. Ed Studniski, 9936 174th Avenue NW, resident of Hidden Creek subdivision, questioned whether or not areas would be rezoned if water and sewer were extended. Chair Minton stated that the improvements would be too expensive for 2-1/2 acre lots and probably would be rezoned. Paul Motin, 9910 174th Avenue NW, Hidden Creek subdivision, stated that it was his understanding there were covenants for Hidden Creek which referred to an agreement with the City requiring the developer to put in water and sewer laterals. Hank Duitsmon, Committee Member, stated that covenants are not enforced by the City or County; only by the courts. He stated that he found it difficult to believe the City would have required laterals back then, since there were no plans for service to that area. Dick Hinkle stated that he served on the Council when Hidden Creek was platted and felt sure there were no laterals for sewer and water. Chair Minton stated that staff would research the issue. Steering Committee Minutes January 12, 1995 Page 3 Renee Pomerleau, 16996 Sunrise Circle, Sunset Ridge subdivision, questioned if sewer and water would be brought out to Sunset Ridge since most of the lots are 2-1/2 to 5 acres. Steve Ach explained that if it is determined that sewer and water are to be extended in the southeast planning area, it would be an incremental process, beginning with East Highway 10. He added that if it was decided to extend services in this direction it would be several years before it would ever extend into the residential areas in the Sunset Ridge location. Hank Duitsman explained that a public hearing will be held in the spring regarding extension of water and sewer from the railroad tracks south out to 165th. He did not feel that property owners north of tracks would be in favor because the costs would be too high for larger parcels and force people into development. Randy Barney, 19008 Lincoln Street, expressed his concern that Lincoln Street should remain a neighborhood street and not become a main transportation route. Renee Pomerleau stated that she would not be in favor of a development which would cause their street to become a through -street. Hank Duitsman suggested that the east -west corridor proposal be published in the paper to solicit public input. He stated that a recommendation is expected from the Steering Committee on this issue. Steve Ach stated that Viking Boulevard is likely to be a connection point to the Anoka County east -west transportation system. Gerry Ruppelius, 10496 181st Avenue NW (County Road 12), stated that he was aware that the farm property across the road from his had been sold to a developer. Also the County will be upgrading County Road 12 next year and he asked whether or not it is planned to extend utilities at that time. Steve Ach explained that a realignment of County Road 12 is planned. Mr. Ruppelius stated the County Engineer indicated that they plan to widen and upgrade the road. He also stated he was not in favor of city water and sewer extending to his property. Dwight Kirkeide, 11230 173rd Avenue NW, stated that he owned 13 acres in Section 10 along the Mississippi River, zoned C3 Highway Commercial. He expressed his opposition to city water and sewer because of the high cost. He also noted that much of his property is located in floodplain. Hank Duitsman explained that floodplain property is not assessed. Pat Holzem, 19049 Davis Street, questioned how floodplain is identified. Steve Ach explained that when an area is included in an assessment project, the City Engineer would make a determination whether or not a particular property is in floodplain. Emma Holzem, 18925 Davis Street, explained that the U.S. Geological Society maps done last year identifies their property as 1-2-3 Wetland and is unsuitable for housing. Steering Committee Minutes January 12, 1995 Page 4 Ruth Brown, 18015 175th Avenue NW, asked for clarification on whether or not the water and sewer is going to be extended. Chair Minton explained that a public hearing will be held in the spring to extend utilities east on Highway 10 to 165th. He stated that information indicates it is too expensive to extend utilities to lots 2- 1/2 acres and larger in size. Hank Duitsman stated that if sewer and water were extended to these larger lots, the zoning would also be changed to allow subdivision into smaller lots. Ms. Brown questioned the affect subdividing would have on property values. Chris Kreger stated that the land value per square foot would go up because more lots could be created. Hank Duitsman explained that the property value would likely be more since a larger house could be built on a bigger lot. Chair Minton added that city sewer and water would add to the value. A resident from the Tyler Street area questioned whether or not sewer and water would be extended to his property, since it is not too for from Hillside Estates. Mary Eberley stated that there were residents from the Tyler Street area present at the Hillside Estates public hearing who asked that question and no decision has been made at this time. Hank Duitsman explained that the Council will meet in February to discuss the issue and that public hearings will be held before any thing is decided. Jeff Hendrickson, 11119 167th Avenue NW, asked if the sewer and water would come through Mississippi Heights if the residents there did not want it. Hank Duitsman stated that they would probably be assessed for the main line, but if the majority of the residents did not want to hook up, they would not have a lateral assessment. Truman Moyer, 16807 Highway 10, asked why businesses along Highway 10 would be forced to hook up. He questioned who wanted the sewer and water extended and stated that those people that wanted it should pay for it. Chair Minton explained that no decision has been made to extend it. Chair Minton stated there is pressure to have city sewer and water in order for the City to attract industry. Dawn Moyer, 1116807 Highway 10, asked how far the extension is proposed. Hank Duitsman stated that the Council has discussed that the extension go down to 165th just west of the Specht farm, up to the railroad. He stated that the reason is to encourage industrial development and also the commercial businesses need the services for fire protection, etc. He added that there are people on both sides of the issue and that public hearings are held to determine what the majority of the property owners want. Chair Minton asked the audience what they would like to see in the Southeast area in the future. Mark Rockiles, Lincoln Street, stated an area could be established closer to Highway 10 for smaller lots with city water and sewer, and also, to maintain the remaining residential area for larger lots. Ed Studniski, 9936 174th Avenue NW, stated that he would like to see his area continue to have the 2412 acre minimum lot size. Steering Committee Minutes January 12, 1995 Page 5 Arne Engstrom stated that the Committee is looking for comments from the residents regarding how they would like to see this area developed 20-30 years from now. He explained that residential developments alone cannot carry the tax burden to support schools and city services. He stressed the importance of setting aside land now for industrial and commercial. Renee Pomerleau, Sunrise Circle, stated that residents in the Sunset Ridge subdivision pay higher taxes than most other property owners in the City ($2,500 to $5,000 per parcel), and she does not feel they receive any services, other than the snowplow. She stated that there are no amenities such as parks or trails and also expressed her frustration with the street system. Ms. Pomerleau explained that she lives at the end of a cul-de-sac and all the water, sand and garbage comes down the street to the front of her property. Dave Anderson, Committee Member, stated that he would encourage people to ask for parks. He stated that the Park and Recreation Commission is focusing on additional parks for the sewer and water area at this time, but that they are looking at putting in larger regional parks and trail systems for the surrounding area. Ms. Pomerleau stated that there is a great need for something in their area since she would estimate there are an average of 3 children per household. Truman Moyer stated that he did not understand why the City is not looking at going farther out Highway 10 with sewer and water, since a large portion of property is taken up by Cargill and the Oliver Kelly Farm. He added that he felt there would be more opportunity for development beyond those properties. Chair Minton stated that the City is aware that Cargill has no plans to sell or develop their property at this time and explained that areas could be rezoned for development in the future. Mike Crepeau, 19016 Lincoln Street, suggested that other areas also be considered for industrial development. He also stated that he does not feel proud of the appearance of the East Highway 10 due to the number of billboards. Mr. Crepeau asked that the Committee to what they can to ensure that new development along Highway 10 be architecturally appealing. Truman Moyer requested that the speed limit on Highway 10 be given consideration. Mary Eberley stated that she felt this is an important issue and should be part of the Committee's review. Ron Middelstad, 19681 Twin Lakes Road, stated that he would like to see his area remain rural as long as possible. He stated he hoped 197th would not be made an east -west corridor. Paul Motin, 9910 174th Avenue NW, stated that he would like to see the larger lot developments remain, except possibly closer to Highway 10. Also, he stated that he felt there is a need for more office space in the community. Renee Pomerleau expressed her concern regarding the need for a safe area for biking and walking along the County roads. Dave Anderson stated that the Park and Recreation Commission is aware of this need. Arne Engstrom stated that he has proposed that any new County road be provided with a biking/pedestrian area on one side. Steering Committee Minutes January 12, 1995 Page 6 has proposed that any new County road be provided with a biking/pedestrian area on one side. Emma Holzem stressed the need to preserve trees for environmental purposes. Randy Barney questioned what kind of businesses are proposed for east Highway 10. Steve Ach stated that the current zoning is industrial and commercial which allows a broad range of businesses. He stated that eventually uses would be similar to what is occuring along Highway 169. Steve stated that he would expect to see more of the larger retailers move out there if water and sewer were extended. LeRoy Brown, 10815 175th Avenue NW, questioned whether or not he would be assessed if the utilities did not go beyond the railroad tracks and 165th. Hank Duitsman stated an area of benefit would be determined by the City Engineer and those people would be assessed. Pete Salem, 19459 Tyler Street, expressed his concern regarding assessment costs for his property. He stated that he has a larger parcel which could only be divided into 2 lots, because of the wetlands. Hank Duitsman stated that wetlands would be excluded. Discussion followed regarding green acres deferment. It was noted that interest on assessments would still accrue on green acres property, even if the assessment itself did not have to be paid at that time. S. Other Business Chair Minton proposed that a comment phone line be set up for citizens to express their views on the overall visual aesthetics of the city and the image they would like to see projected. Committee members suggested that questions be included on an east -west corridor, bike/pedestrian pathways and housing mix. Discussion followed regarding R4-zoned property. MARY EBERLEY MOVED TO RECOMMEND THAT THE CITY COUNCIL PLACE A CITY- WIDE MORATORIUM ON ANY FURTHER R3 AND R4 MULTI -FAMILY DEVELOPMENT OR REDEVELOPMENT, UNTIL THE ZONING CAN BE FURTHER INVESTIGATED BY THE STEERING COMMITTEE DURING THEIR REVIEW OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN. DICK HINKLE SECONDED THE MOTION. Merry Sipe expressed her concern that she is not completely sure of where all these R3 and R4 properties are located. Pat Dwyer stated that this motion is a only a recommendation, and that the City Council would hold a public hearing before any decision would be made. Dick Hinkle stated that he feels the moratorium would prevent construction of apartments on property that is currently zoned for them, but may be under consideration for rezoning. He further expressed his concern that the Committee try to move as quickly as possible and not drag out the process. He stated that he would like to see their work completed by the end of May if possible. THE MOTION CARRIED 13-1. CHRIS KREGER OPPOSED. Steering Committee Minutes Page 7 January 12, 1995 6. Future Meeting The next meeting of the Elk River Steering Committee will be February 9, 1995. There will be a presentation by the Park and Recreation Commission. Chair Minton stated that Steve Ach will be compiling a list of issues for discussion at the Steering Committee meeting including the following: -land use mix (commercial, industrial, residential) -amount of single family housing vs. number of apartments He noted that the meetings will be informal with time set aside for citizen input. Chair Minton requested that the letter from Tom and Ruth Jenior be included in the official record of the Steering Committee. CHRIS KERGER MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. ARNE ENGSTROM SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 14-0. The Elk River Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee adjourned at 9:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Debbie Kleckner Recording Secretary