08-28-2001 PC MIN
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MEETING OF THE ELK RIVER PLANNING COMMISSION
HELD AT ELK RIVER CITY HALL
TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 200 I
Members Present:
Chair Pederson, Commissioners Baker, Franz, Mesich, Ropp and Schuster
Members Absent:
None
Staff Present:
Michele McPherson, Director of Planning; Charlie Wilson, City Attorney
Representative, Terry Maurer, City Engineer; Scott Harlicker, Senior
Planner; Chris Leeseberg, Park Planner/Planner; Debbie Huebner,
Recording Secretary
1. Call Meeting To Order
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting of the Elk River Planning Commission
was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Chair Pederson.
2.
Consider 8/28/01 Planning Commission Agenda
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COMMISSIONER MESICH MOVED TO APPROVE THE AUGUST 28, 2001
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA. COMMISSIONER FRANZ SECONDED
THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0.
3.
Consider Planning Commission Minutes
COMMISSIONER BAKER MOVED TO APPROVE THE JUNE 12, 2001,
MINUTES. COMMISSIONER FRANZ SECONDED THE MOTION. THE
MOTION CARRIED 6-0.
COMMISSIONER BAKER MOVED TO APPROVE THE JULY 10, 2001,
MINUTES WITH THE FOLLOWING CHANGE:
COMMISSIONER FRANZ ABSENT.
COMMISSIONER MESICH SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
COMMISSIONER FRANZ MOVED TO APPROVE THE JULY 24, 2001,
MINUTES. COMMISSIONER BAKER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE
MOTION CARRIED 6-0.
4. Planning Commission Representative to Attend City Council Meeting
Commissioner Franz will attend the September 17,2001 City Council meeting.
Request by Tiller Corporation for Amendment to Conditional Use Permit. Public Hearing-
Case No. CU 01-33
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5.1.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 2
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Staff report by Steve Rohlf. Tiller Corporation is requesting an amendment to their
conditional use permit in order to modify their reclamation plan for CU 92-01. Tiller is
making this request in order to accommodate the city and county's timing for the proposed
realignments of County Roads 33 and 77. Tiller is proposing to mine the common boundary
between their pit and Aggregate Industries' mining operation to the west, relocate their wash
plant, and make other minor adjustments to their operation to accommodate the new road
corridors. Mr. Rohlf explained that no other changes are proposed in the conditional use
permit at this time. Staff recommends approval of the request based on the findings listed in
the staff report dated August 28, 2001.
Commissioner Mesich asked what the type of change will be made in the reclamation plan.
Mr. Rohlf explained that the original plan shows a "bowl" configuration with 4 to 1 slopes.
With the revised plan the finished site will be brought up to one level.
Chair Pederson opened the public hearing. There being no public comment, Chair Pederson
closed the public hearing.
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COMMISSIONER MESICH MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE
REQUEST BY TILLER CORPORATION FOR AN AMENDMENT TO A
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, CASE NO. CU 01-33, BASED ON THE
FOLLOWING FINDINGS:
1. THE CITY OF ELK RIVER'S LONG RANGE PLANNING ANTICIPATED
MINING AS A INTERIM USE ON THE PROPERTY IN QUESTION
WHEN IT WAS ZONED MINERAL EXCAVATION OVERLAY DISTRICT
AND TILLER HAS A VALID MINERAL EXCAVATION PERMIT
CURRENTLY ON THE PROPERTY IN QUESTION.
2. TILLER'S PROPOSED RECLAMATION PLAN IS CONSISTENT WITH
THE CITY OF ELK RIVER'S EIS ON MINERAL EXCAVATION,
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN (INCLUDING THE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
COMPONENT), MINERAL EXCAVATION ORDINANCE AND ZONING
ORDINANCE, AS WELL AS SHERBURNE COUNTY'S
TRANSPORTATION PLAN.
3. THE MODIFICATION TO TILLER'S RECLAMATION PLAN WILL NOT
RESULT IN THE LOSS OF NATURAL, SCENIC OR HISTORIC
FEATURES OF MAJOR IMPORTANCE AND IT DOES NOT APPEAR TO
HAVE THE POTENTIAL FOR SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL
EFFECTS.
4. EXISTING CONDITIONS PLACED ON THE OPERATION
ADEQUATELY PROTECT ADJACENT PROPERTIES AND THE CITY
FROM DETRIMENTAL AFFECTS FROM THE OPERATION DUE TO
EXCESSIVE TRAFFIC, NOISE, ODOR, SMOKE, FUMES, GLARE, DUST
OR VIBRATION.
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5. EXISTING CONDITIONS PLACED ON THE OPERATION REQUIRE
THAT IT COMPLY WITH ALL APPROPRIATE STATE AND FEDERAL
REQUIREMENTS.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 3
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COMMISSIONER FRANZ SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
5.2.
Request by Simonson's Salon & Day Spa for a Conditional Use Permit (Therapeutic
Massage). Public Hearing - Case No. CU 01-28
Staff report by Scott Harlicker. Simonson's Day Spa is requesting a conditional use permit
for a therapeutic massage at 19320 Highway 169. Mr. Harlicker stated that the applicant will
employ two masseuses at this time and he reviewed the hours of operation. Staff
recommends approval of the request with the condition that a massage therapist license be
obtained prior to the commencement of services.
Chair Pederson opened the public hearing. There being no comments from the public,
Chair Pederson closed the public hearing.
COMMISSIONER FRANZ MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE
REQUEST BY SIMONSON'S SALON & DAY SPA FORA CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT FOR THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE, CASE NO. CD 01-28, WITH THE
FOLLOWING CONDITION:
1. A MASSAGE THERAPIST LICENSE BE OBTAINED PRIOR TO THE
COMMENCEMENT OF SERVICES.
COMMISSIONER BAKER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
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5.3.
Request by Patricia Demairis-Kirscht for Preschool at Boys and Girls Club. Public Hearing-
Case No. CU 01-29
Director of Planning Michele McPherson reviewed the applicant's request to operate a
twice-a-day preschool for children ages 3 - 5 years old at the Boys and Girls Club, 905 6th
Street. Ms. Demairis-Kirscht will be licensed under the State of Minnesota and allowed to
teach a maximum of 20 children per session. Ms. McPherson stated that the preschool will
be operated during hours that typically do not have Boys and Girls Club activities. Parents
will be responsible for bringing children to and from the sessions and no buses will be
utilized, although the parking lot does support bus traffic. Staff feels that there is adequate
parking for this operation in addition to the Boys and Girls Club staff.
Chair Pederson opened the public hearing. There being no public comment, Chair Pederson
closed the public hearing.
Chair Pederson stated that buses drop off elementary school-age children on Jackson for
Boys and Girls Club activities after school. He felt there may be a safety concern with
parents picking up their preschoolers from the afternoon session at the same time. Ms.
McPherson noted that there is a walking trail from Jackson Street to the Boys and Girls
Club.
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COMMISSIONER BAKER MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE
REQUEST BY PATRICIA DEMARAIS-KIRSCHT FORA PRESCHOOL AT THE
BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB, CASE NO. CD 01-29, WITH THE FOLLOWING
CONDITIONS:
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 4
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1. THE APPUCANT RECEIVE STATE UCENSURE PRIOR TO
COMMENCEMENT OF THE PRESCHOOL OPERATION.
2. SIGNAGE WILL COMPLY WITH THE CITY OF ELK RIVER SIGN CODE.
3. STAFF WILL CONTACT THE SCHOOL DISTRICT REGARDING
ARRIVAL TIMES OF BUSES AT THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB AFTER
SCHOOL, IN ORDER TO DETERMINE IF THERE IS A SAFETY
CONCERN.
COMMISSIONER MESICH SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
5.4. Request by Brian Brueske for Preliminary Plat Approval (Sunny Acres). Public Hearing-
Case No. P 01-12
Staff report by Scott Harlicker. Brian Brueske requests preliminary plat approval for Sunny
Acres. The applicant proposed to plat a 5.47 acre parcel located at the northeast corner of
Highway 10 and 165th Avenue into a 4.58 acre lot and a .89 acre lot. An interim use permit
was approved by the City Council on June 18,2001 for development ofthe property with
septic and well prior to extension of city services. Mr. Harlicker reviewed access to the
parcels. He noted that grading, drainage and utility issues are addressed in City Engineer
Terry Maurer's memo dated August 10,2001. Staff recommends approval of the request
with the six conditions outlined in the staff report.
Chair Pederson opened the public hearing.
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Dick Hetland, owner of the property and Elk River Recycling Station, asked that the
Commission consider platting of only Lot 2, Block 1, the lot he plans to sell, at this time. He
stated that the reason he was selling the lot was to get out of debt, and that he recently
became aware of the fact he would be required to pay approximately $13,000 for park
dedication and surface water management fees for the platting of his lot.
Ms. McPherson explained that the Commission should consider preliminary plat for both
lots at this time, and that Mr. Hetland make request final plat approval for only the one lot
Mr. Brueske intends to purchase.
There being no further public comment, Chair Pederson closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Mesich asked Mr. Maurer if there were issues which still need to be
addressed. Mr. Maurer stated that he received a letter from the applicant which addressed
each of his points of concern. Commissioner Mesich asked if the handicap parking stall was
still an issue. Mr. Maurer stated that the grading plan has been adjusted to correct the slope.
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COMMISSIONER MESICH MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE
REQUEST BY BRIAN BRUSKE FOR PREliMINARY PLAT APPROVAL OF
SUNNY ACRES, CASE NO. P 01-12, WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. ALL COMMENTS OF THE CITY ENGINEER SHALL BE ADDRESSED.
2. SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT FEES SHALL BE PAID PRIOR TO
RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
3. PARK DEDICATION FEES SHALL BE PAID PRIOR TO RELEASING THE
PLAT FOR RECORDING.
4. LOT 2 SHALL BE A MINIMUM OF 1 ACRE.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 5
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5. THE PROPERTY OWNER WILL AGREE TO PAY ALL TRUNK AND
LATERAL COSTS ASSESSED FOR EXTENDING W ATERAND SANITARY
SEWER TO THE SITE AND WILL WAIVE ALL RIGHTS TO APPEAL THE
AMOUNT ASSESSED FOR WATER AND SANITARY SEWER.
6. THE PROPERTY OWNERS WILL HOOK-UP TO CITY SEWER AND
WATER WITHIN THE SPECIFIED TIME FRAME IN THE CITY'S
CURRENT ORDINANCE APPLICABLE AT THE TIME THESE SERVICES
BECOME AVAILABLE.
COMMISSIONER BAKER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
5.5. Request by S & T Developments for Preliminary Plat Approval (Elk River Crossing 3rd
Addition). Public Hearing - Case No. P 01-15
Staff report by Scott Harlicker. S & T Development, LLP requests preliminary plat
approval of Elk River Crossing Third Addition. The applicant proposes to replat Lots 3 - 5,
Block 1, Elk River Crossing and Lot 2, Block 1, Elk River Crossing 2nd Addition, into 6 lots,
ranging in size from .74 acres to 1.45 acres. Access to Lot 2 is restricted to the existing
shared driveway with Jiffy Lube and Conoco. Staff suggests that shared driveways be
considered where possible on the remaining lots. Staff recommends approval ofthe request
with the conditions listed in the staff report regarding the City Engineer's comments, access
to Lot 2, and easements.
Chair Pederson opened the public hearing.
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Commissioner Mesich asked how large of a building could be built on the .74 acre lot. Russ
McGinty of Grubb & Ellis, representing the applicant, stated that covenants restrict
building size on any lot to 7,500 square feet. Chair Pederson asked how the Wash-n-Fill
building compared in size. Mr. McGinty stated that the Wash-n-Fill building is
approximately 4,000 square feet.
Commissioner Baker asked if building plans were available for the sites. Mr. McGinty stated
that there are no plans available at this time, as they are in the process of negotiating with
possible buyers/tenants.
Commissioner Mesich stated that there was a safety concern with the access for Conoco
because of the curve in the road. He felt the situation would be made worse if Lot 2 shares
this access. Commissioner Mesich asked why the lots were split up as shown. Mr. McGinty
stated that they may be different when they come back for final plat, depending on the space
needs of the users.
There being no further public comment, Chair Pederson closed the public hearing.
COMMISSIONER FRANZ MOVED TO RECOMMEND APROV AL OF THE
REQUEST BY S & T DEVELOPMENTS FOR PRELIMINARY PLAT
APPROVAL OF ELK RIVER CROSSING 3RD ADDITION, CASE NO. P 01-17,
WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. ALL COMMENTS OF THE CITY ENGINEER SHALL BE ADDRESSED.
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Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 6
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2. ACCESS TO LOT 2 SHALL BE RESTRICTED TO THE EXISTING
SHARED DRIVEWAY.
3. THE EXISTING EASEMENTS ON THE CURRENT PROPERTY LINE
SHALL BE VACATED, EXCEPT FOR THE 40 FOOT WIDE EASEMENT
THAT EXTENDS FROM THE LIFT STATION TO ZANE STREET, AND
NEW EASEMENTS SHALL BE DEDICATED ALONG THE PROPOSED
PROPERTY LINES.
COMMISSIONER PEDERSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
The Commissioners discussed their concern with the shared access for Lot 2 and the
Conoco site. It was suggested that Lot 2 be made larger, or, that Lot 2 be required to have a
shared access with Lot 3. Staff did not feel the City could deny access to Lot 2, since it may
be developed first. Mr. Maurer stated that a shared access for Lots 2 and 3 could be worked
out during site plan review for Lot 3 when it develops. Mr. McGinty stated that they may
have a tenant interested in combining Lots 2 and 3, which could be accomplished through
the final plat process.
Commissioner Mesich asked if a signal could be installed at this location. Mr. Maurer stated
that the intersection is too close to the signal at Main Street and Zane.
THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0.
5.6.
Request by Hoyt Partners for Preliminary Plat Approval (Elk Path Business Center 2nd
Addition). Public Hearing - Case No. P 01-17
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Staff report by Michele McPherson. Hoyt Partners requests preliminary plat approval for
Elk Path Business Center 2nd Addition. The applicant proposes to create a 2.24 acre parcel
out of the larger Outlot A which totals 77.29 acres, to construct a 42,000 square foot office
building. Staff recommends approval of the request with the three conditions stated in the
staff report.
Chair Pederson opened the public hearing. There being no comments from the public,
Chair Pederson closed the public hearing.
Discussion followed regarding the second access to the property. Commissioner Mesich
asked if the applicants considered an access onto the Courthouse driveway. Mr. Caswell
representing Hoyt Partners, stated that Sherburne County will not allow a connection to
their driveway.
Commissioner Franz asked if the new business park standards will apply to the building
constructed on this site. Ms. McPherson stated that staff will follow the standards when the
site plan is reviewed.
COMMISSIONER FRANZ MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE
REQUEST BY HOYT PARTNERS FOR PRELIMINARY PLAT APPROVAL OF
ELK PATH BUSINESS CENTER 2ND ADDITION, CASE NO. P 01-17, WITH
THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
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1. THE LOT BE LIMITED TO ONE ACCESS POINT ON BUSINESS
CENTER DRIVE.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 7
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2. PARK DEDICATION FEES BE PAID PRIOR TO RECORDING THE PLAT
WITH SHERBURNE COUNTY.
3. STORM WATER MANAGEMENT FEES BE PAID PRIOR TO RECORDING
THE PLAT WITH SHERBURNE COUNTY.
COMMISSIONER ROPP SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
5.7. Request by John Weicht & Associates for an Amendment to a Conditional Use Permit
(Deano's Auto Collision). Public Hearing - Case No. CU 01-30
Staff report by Chris Leeseberg. J ohn Weicht, on behalf of Deano's Auto Collision, requests
an amendment to their conditional use permit to allow a building expansion at 11063 173rd
Avenue NW. Mr. Leeseberg reviewed building materials, landscaping, parking and
circulation, and sewer and water issues. Staff recommends approval of the request with the
8 conditions listed in the staff report.
Chair Pederson opened the public hearing.
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John Weicht, 13330 Island View Drive, applicant, stated that Deano's plans to reface the
building to match Precision Auto Body. A canopy will be installed to accent the front of the
building. He stated that the six foot high opaque fence will be extended. Mr. Weicht stated
that the double-deep parking stalls will be utilized for storage of vehicles, since vehicles
sometimes need to be on the property for a week. He stated that Deano's did not have a
problem with the screening proposed by staff and that they could reduce visibility further by
raising the berm.
Ms. McPherson stated that rather than raising the berm, the landscaping plan could be
revised to include spruce trees along the fence for further screening. Mr. Weicht explained
that there are trees inside the existing opaque fence, and that additional trees could be
planted along the east and north sides of the property. He noted that this type of business
generates a great deal of parts and he felt that the fence would screen the dumpsters stored
inside the fence.
There being no other public comment, Chair Pederson closed the public hearing.
COMMISSIONER SCHUSTER MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF
THE REQUEST BY JOHN WEICHT & ASSOCIATES FOR AN AMENDMENT
TO A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FORDEANO'S AUTO COLLISION, CASE
NO. CU 01-30, WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1.
THE FINAL PLAT OF THE K&L ADDITION SHALL BE RECORDED
PRIOR TO ISSUANCE OF A BUILDING PERMIT.
ALL COMMENTS OF THE CITY ENGINEER ARE ADDRESSED.
EXTERIOR BUILDING MATERIALS SHALL COMPLY WITH THE
CITY'S CURRENT COMMERCIAL BUILDING STANDARDS.
ALL OUTDOOR STORAGE SHALL BE CONFINED TO THE FENCED
AREA.
ALL OUTDOOR STORAGE SHALL BE SCREENED THROUGH
LANDSCAPING AND/OR BERMING.
2.
3.
4.
.
5.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 8
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A LANDSCAPE PLAN SHALL BE SUBMITTED FOR STAFF TO
REVIEW AND APPROVE.
CONNECT TO SANITARY SEWER AND WATER PRIOR TO
ISSUANCE OF A CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY FOR THE
ADDITION.
ONE ADDITIONAL HANDICAP PARKING STALL SHALL BE
PROVIDED FOR THE DEANO'S COLLISION BUILDING.
COMMISSIONER FRANZ SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
6.
7.
8.
5.8. Request by John Weicht & associates for an Amendment to a Conditional Use Permit
(Plaisted Companies). Public Hearing - Case No. CU 01-31
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5.9.
5.10.
5.11.
5.12.
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Staff report by Scott Harlicker. Plaisted Company requests an amendment to their
conditional use permit for a 100' x 60' addition to an existing storage building, and the
construction of a 120' x 60' (7,200 square foot) second building. The existing building on
the property is located in a low area and is generally screened from adjacent properties by
existing vegetation. This building is used to process and package peat and is considered
temporary since it will be removed when the applicant mines this area. The new building
will be used to manufacture concrete septic tanks and will be located 200 feet north of the
existing building. Staff recommends approval of the request as proposed.
Commissioner Mesich asked how much additional truck traffic would be generated by
addition and new manufacturing facility. John Weicht, applicant, stated that
approximately 20 truck trips be day would be added.
Chair Pederson opened the public hearing. There being no comments from the public,
Chair Pederson closed the public hearing.
COMMISSIONER BAKER MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE
REQUEST BY JOHN WEICHT & ASSOCIATES FOR AN AMENDMENT TO A
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (PLAISTED COMPANIES), CASE NO. CU 01-31.
COMMISSIONER FRANZ SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
Chair Pederson called a recess at this time (8:45 p.m.). The Commission reconvened at 8:50
p.m.
Request by D .R. Horton for Waiver to T ownhome Moratorium
Request by D.R. Horton for Rezoning from Rld (Single Family Residential) to PUD
(planned Unit Development). Public Hearing - Case No. ZC 01-06
Request by D .R. Horton for Preliminary Plat Approval (Trott Brook South). Public Hearing
- Case No. P 01-14
Request by D.R. Horton for Conditional Use Permit (Trott Brook South). Public Hearing-
Case No. CU 01-32
Staff report by Michele McPherson. D .R. Horton is requesting approval of a waiver to the
townhome moratorium, a rezoning to PUD, preliminary plat, and a conditional use permit in
order to allow construction of 156 dwelling units on 38 acres of land. The property is
located at the southeast corner of the intersection of Twin Lakes Road and County Road 12.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 9
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Don Patten, representing D.R. Horton, introduced his project team and their attorney,
David Sellergren. Mr. Patten reviewed the history of the Trott Brook Farms project. He
stated that they have a purchase agreement with Stoffel Reitsma to purchase his property
and that they would like to get started on their project this year. He explained that they have
sold out their villa townhome project and have plans to continue this type of construction
on the Reitsma property.
Ed Hasek, Westwood Professional Services, stated that his firm has completed the
wetland delineation and preliminary tree inventory. He stated that the property will actually
be 41.5 acres when the excess right-of-way is added back from the County Road 12 and
Twin Lakes Road project. He stated that there is gas line easement on the property which
consists of 2 acres, 3.5 acres of wetlands, leaving a net of 35 developable acres. Mr. Hasek
explained that they will be moving the access as far east as possible and that Street A will
connect to Tyler Street. He stated that staff has recommended no access to Tyler Street to
the west and they are suggesting an access to the Black property for future development.
Two additional units could be added in this location. Mr. Hasek stated that they have tried
to reduce the impact on the wetlands as much as possible. He stated that they may need to
construct a dike at one location where County Road 12 is lower than property. Mr. Hassek
provided information regarding street and driveway widths, location of ponds and future
road connections.
Jason McCartney, Westwood Professional Services, reviewed the location of
connections to city sewer and water.
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Dave Sellergren, attorney representing the applicant, explained that D .R. Horton is under
time constraints, due to the fact that they have run out of the type of housing the market is
demanding. He explained that it will take time to grade the site and install the streets and
utilities and the applicant wishes to avoid a gap in time. He asked that the Commission
consider some way to allow them to proceed, and still work on their townhome ordinance.
Mr. Sellergren suggested that the Commission approve the plat and the rezoning to PUD for
the portion south and west of Street B. They would then request final plat approval for the
single family detached homes, and plat the villa and coach home portion as outlots.
Commissioner Mesich felt this proposal did not meet the criteria for a PUD and that since
the underlying land use of medium density residential, the 14,000 square foot lot minimum
lot size should be followed. Mr. Sellergren stated that he feels the request is consistent the
City's Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Ms. McPherson added that the Comprehensive Plan
does not define a number of units per acre for medium density residential.
Ms. McPherson stated that staff recommends denial of the requests in order to allow an
opportunity to set guidelines for townhomes. She reviewed the areas where trees are
proposed to be saved. Ms. McPherson stated that the applicant is proposing some side-
loaded garages for the coach villas, but this is essentially the only change proposed in the
design from the Trott Brook Farms townhomes.
.
Commissioner Baker asked when staff expects the revisions to the townhome ordinance to
be completed. Ms. McPherson explained that staff plans Planning Commission review of
the draft ordinance at the September workshop meeting, with a public hearing by the
Planning Commission on September 25th and by the City Council on October 15th. Ms.
McPherson noted that the moratorium will expire December 3, 2001.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 10
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Commissioner Baker asked for clarification on the applicant's proposal. Ms. McPherson
explained that the applicant is proposing to withdraw their request to plat the townhome
portion of the property, and instead, plat only the single family at this time and the rest of
the property would be platted as outlots.
Commissioner Mesich suggested a buffer of single family next to the commercial. Ms.
McPherson explained that the intent of the ordinance is place higher density next to
commercial as a buffer to lower density residential.
Chair Pederson opened the public hearing.
Bob Black, 19768 181 st Avenue NW, asked if he will have access to turn left onto County
Road 12, since he lost this option when the median was constructed in front of his driveway.
City Engineer Terry Maurer stated that he recommends that D .R. Horton take the future
development of the Black's property into consideration so that Street A be placed near the
Black's south property line.
Mr. Sellergren stated that if they were allowed to go ahead with the single family portion,
the Commissioners could make a decision regarding the multi-family residential in the
future. Ms. McPherson suggested that the applicant plat the single family residential to the
east as 14,000 square foot lots. Mr. Sellergren stated that the applicant has indicated to them
they need to stay at the 12,800 square foot average.
.
Commissioner Pederson asked why the applicant wanted to move forward with the single
family, when they have indicated the multi-family housing is in short supply. Mr. Sellergren
stated that development of the single family housing is related to acquisition of property to
the south. Mr. Patten added that they also need to balance the dirt on the entire site, and by
developing the single family first, they can move excess dirt from that site to the multi-family
sites.
Discussion followed regarding the request for a waiver to the townhome moratorium.
Further discussion followed regarding preservation of trees.
Chair Pederson stated he also felt the single family lots should be a minimum of 14,000
square feet. He felt the project consists of a large number of buildings with very little open
space and no play areas. He felt that Lot 11 should be taken out and left as an access to the
Vandenberg property. Ms. McPherson stated that they have recommended a trail easement
adjacent to the south property line. She noted that the lot lines were shifted to the north to
create Lot 11.
Chair Pederson asked how the Black's driveway issue will be resolved. Ms. McPherson
stated that a new driveway will be created off of Street A.
Commissioner Mesich suggested than an alternate access be constructed to avoid the long
cul-de-sac situation on Street A. Mr. Maurer stated that the Black property will not be
allowed access to Tyler Street to the west, due to safety issues.
Commissioner Baker did not feel the applicants have demonstrated valid reasons to support
a Walver.
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Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 11
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Commissioner Franz asked if the Commission must act on all the requests. Ms. McPherson
offered options for the Commission to consider. She stated that she did not feel it is
appropriate to grant a rezoning to POO for only the single family lots.
Chair Pederson stated that he was not in favor of approving a POO for single family homes
and a large outlot. He felt the applicant could met the 14,000 square foot minimum lot size,
but they appear unwilling to do so. He suggested the Commission act on the requests as
presented. Commissioner Franz concurred.
Discussion followed regarding interpretation of low, medium and high density, and also, the
amount of open space which would be provided in this plat. Commissioner Mesich felt the
project is too dense. Ms. McPherson stated that staff's interpretation is that the density is
appropriate.
Mr. Hasek stated that approximately 20 percent of the property will be open space. He
stated that the Park and Recreation chose not to request park land and instead, asked for
cash dedication which amounts to approximately a quarter of a million dollars.
Commissioner Baker stated that he agreed with staff that the proposal is not overly dense.
Commissioner Mesich asked if there will be sidewalks in the plat. Ms. McPherson stated
that staff has recommended sidewalks on Streets A, B, and C and that they are looking at a
connection to Twin Lakes Road.
.
Commissioner Mesich asked if there was a possible of a road connection to the city park to
the east. Ms. McPherson stated that there is only an unimproved road into the park with a
small parking area at this time. She noted that the owner of the property to the south is
considering developing his parcel and they have spoken with him regarding a possible road
connection.
Mr. Maurer stated that the best location for access would be south of the industrial site.
Commissioner Mesich felt that a rezoning to R3 would be more appropriate. Ms.
McPherson noted that the R3 zoning would allow multi-family as well as 12,000 square foot
single family lots.
COMMISSIONER BAKER MOVED TO RECOMMEND DENIAL OF THE
REQUEST BY D.R. HORTON FOR WAIVER TO THE TOWNHOME
MORATORIUM BASED ON THE FOLLOWING FINDINGS:
1. IN REGARD TO SECTION 5 OF THE ORDINANCE ESTABliSHING A
MORATORIUM ON TOWNHOME DEVELOPMENTS, THE COMMISSION
FEELS THAT THE APPliCANT HAS NO DEMONSTRATED SUBSTANTIAL
HARDSHIP.
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2. GRANTING A WAIVER TO THE MORATORIUM ON TOWNHOME
DEVELOPMENTS WILL UNDULY AFFECT THE PLANNING PROCESS AND
THE PURPOSES FOR WHICH THE INTERIM ORDINANCE WAS ENACTED.
COMMISSIONER FRANZ SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 12
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COMMISSIONER BAKER MOVED TO RECOMMENDED DENIAL OF THE
REQUEST BY D.R. HORTON FOR REZONING FROM R1D TO PUD, BASED
ON THE FOLLOWING FINDINGS:
1. THE PLANNING COMMISSION HAS RECOMMENDED DENIAL OF
THE REQUEST FOR A WAIVER TO THE TOWNHOME MORATORIUM.
2. THE PLANNING COMMISSION FEELS THAT THE PUD ZONING IS
NOT APPROPRIATE AND THAT A REZONING TO MEDIUM DENSITY
AFTER THE TOWNHOME MORATORIUM IS UFTED IS MORE
SUITABLE FOR THIS PROPERTY.
COMMISSIONER MESICH SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION
CARRIED 6-0.
COMMISSIONER BAKER MOVED TO RECOMMEND DENY THE REQUEST
BY D.R. HORTON FOR PREUMINARY PLAT APPROVAL FOR TROTT
BROOK FARMS SOUTH, CASE NO. P 01-14, BASED ON THE FINDINGS FOR
DENIAL OF THE REZONING. COMMISSIONER FRANZ SECONDED THE
MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0.
COMMISSIONER BAKER MOVED TO DENY THE REQUEST BY D.R.
HORTON FORA CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, CASE NO. CU 01-32, BASED
ON THE FINDINGS FOR DENIAL OF THE REZONING. COMMISSIONER
FRANZ SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0.
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6.
Other Business
6.1. Update on 6/18/01 City Council Meeting
Chair Pederson provided an update on the June 18, 2001 City Council meeting.
6.2. Review Concept Plan for Elk Path Business Center
Director of Planning Michele McPherson reviewed the concept plan for
development of the Elk Path Business Center. She stated that the applicants Hoyt
Partners, were present to receive comments and answer any questions the
Commission may have, and that no action was required at this time.
Terry Schneider, representing Hoyt Partners, stated that the concept plan will be
guide for development of the entire parcel, and will provide continuity in planning
drainage, landscaping, and parking.
Commissioner Franz asked what they have planned for Outlot F. Mr. Stewart
Wilson? applicant, stated that the County has purchased Outlot F for possible future
expanSlOn.
Commissioner Baker felt that a landscaped berm would help to screen the
manufacturing/warehouse space from the adjacent residential neighborhood.
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Chair Pederson stated he was pleased to see the buildings placed so that loading
docks could be back to back.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 13
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Commissioner Mesich asked when the Waco and Highway 10 intersection would be
signalized. Mr. Maurer stated that the signal is already on the schedule.
Commissioner Baker asked if staff felt the residents will object to the Troy Street
road connection to the south. Mr. Maurer stated that most traffic will use Highway
10 and would have no reason to go down Troy Street.
Chair Pederson complemented the applicants on their design.
8. Adjournment
There being no further business, COMMISSIONER BAKER MOVED TO ADJOURN
THE MEETING.
The meeting of the Elk River Planning Commission adjourned at 10:37 p.m.
ResjJectfully submitted,
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/tMlM ~
Debbie Huebner
Recording Secretary
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