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7.1 SR 05-17-2021it ci Elk* River Request for Action To Item Number Mayor and City Council 7.1 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Public Hearings May 17, 2021 Chris Leeseberg, Senior Planner Item Description Reviewed by Conditional Use Permit: Expand Educational Zack Carlton, Planning Manager Use with Additional Classrooms - Three Rivers Reviewed by Montessori, 17267 Yale Street Cal Portner, City Administrator Action Requested Approve, by motion, a Conditional Use Permit with the following y conditions to satisfy the standards set forth in Section 30-654: _ 1. The building shall be inspected by the building official and fire marshal to verify compliance with all building and fire codes �+ and identified violations must be addressed prior to issuance of new building permits for the property. cR 33 2. No vehicles associated with the school may be parked or queued in the city right-of-way or on a public street. 3. An eight -foot -tall opaque fence be installed across the entire southern property line. RR 4. An amendment to this Conditional Use Permit will be required for future expansions/additions not shown on the site plan HWr 10f dated April 27, 2021. cR 12 Background/Discussion Case number CU 21-06. The applicant is seeking to amend their CUP', (CU 20-08) to expand their operation of a Montessori School into the �P lower floor of the existing structure. Planning Commission During the public hearing, the applicant and their representative Figure I addressed the concrete pieces in the play area, noting they were left over from previous construction activities and they would like the Planning Commission to consider coniferous trees in lieu of the seven -foot opaque fence. Their representative stated if a privacy fence is required, they would prefer it be either six feet or eight feet in height as these are standard heights. The commission discussed fencing versus coniferous trees and conclude a fence would be the best option for privacy and protection for the neighboring businesses. The commission recommended an eight -foot -tall fence. After the meeting, staff did inform the applicant that fencing taller than seven feet would require building permits and engineering. The Elk River Vision A n elcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity. P I I E I 1 0 9Y NATURE Updated. August 2020 There was brief discussion on the number of vehicles in the area during drop-off and pick-up times, but no recommendations were made. Staff has not received any comments since the commission meeting. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the request. Financial Impact None Mission/Policy/Goal ■ Responsibly grow ■ Meet changing needs - Agile ■ Ethical, efficient, and responsible ■ Work with citizens to achieve goals ■ Help, not hinder citizen quality of life Attachments ■ Planning Commission Memo Dated April 27, 2021 ■ Support Letter Request for Action Ciry nf Elk River To Item Number Planning Commission 5.2 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Public Hearings April 27, 2021 Chris Leeseberg, Senior Planner Item Description Reviewed by CSDC Facilities Corporation — 17267 Yale St. Zack Carlton, Planning Manager NW, Amend Conditional Use Permit CU 20-08 Reviewed by to expand an approved Educational Use With Additional Classrooms at Three Rivers Montessori, CU 21-06 Action Requested Recommend, by motion, approval of the Conditional Use Permit with the following conditions to satisfy the standards set forth in Section 30-654: delete these examples - these conditions need to satisfy the standards set forth in section 30-654 1. The building shall be inspected by the city building official and fire marshal to verify compliance with all building and fire codes and identified violations must be addressed prior to issuance of new building permits for the property. 2. No vehicles associated with the school may be parked or queued in the city right-of-way or on a public street. 3. A 7-foot-tall opaque fence be installed across the entire property 15 feet off the southern property line. 4. An amendment to this Conditional Use Permit will be required for future expansions/additions not shown on the site plan dated April 27, 2021. Background/Discussion The property is zoned Planned Unit Development (PUD) where Educational Institutions require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). The applicant is seeking to amend their CUP (CU 20-08) to expand their operation of a Montessori School into the lower floor of the existing structure located on the parcel. Transportation The school anticipates an enrollment increase to 175-students with approximately 40% using bus service and the other 60% coming and going by car. Based on the listed percentages, approximately 105-students will come and go by car. The school estimates there are 1.5-students per car, which equates to approximately 70-cars at pickup and drop-off times. The Elk River Vision P I I E I E I 11 A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional [NATUREI service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity. Updated. August 2020 In the morning, buses will arrive in a 5-minute window between 8:00 a.m. — 8:05 a.m. with cars between 8:00 a.m.- 8:30 a.m. In the afternoon, buses will arrive in a 5-minute window between 2:30 p.m. — 2:35 a.m. with cars between 2:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Hours of Operation Morning Care 6:30-8:00; Regular School Hours 8:00-2:30; After Care 2:30-6:00 Number of Employees They will have approximately 20-25 staff, along with 3-4 volunteers possible during the day. Parking Public elementary schools, junior high school, or similar private schools require two parking spaces for each classroom. The proposed plans show seven classrooms requiring 14 parking stalls. There site offers 41 parking stalls, 24 on the upper level and 17 on the lower level. Public Notice Staff received three emails (attached) from neighboring businesses outlining issues they have experienced since the school began operations. The two main issues are the level of noise the students make while utilizing the play area and objects being throw over the fence, either accidentally or on purpose. They suggested a taller solid fence and possibly moving the fence further from the property line. It was also suggested a playground be installed closer to the school building. The applicant indicated if screening/fencing becomes a condition, would it be possible to screen with coniferous trees along the existing fence and property line? This would create a natural screen and height barrier, would preserve critical play space (rather than 15 ft. setback) and would be more cost effective than a 7ft. opaque fence that would likely require ongoing maintenance. Applicable Regulations In approving a Conditional Use Permit, the council may impose such specific conditions with regard to the development or operation of the proposed use as it considers necessary to satisfy the seven standards set forth in Section 30-654 and the requirements contained in this article and to promote compatibility with and minimize any potentially adverse effects upon adjacent properties, the neighborhood or the city. The issuance of a Conditional Use Permit can be ordered only if the use at the proposed location: mill not endanger, injure or detrimentally affect the use and enjoyment of other property in the immediate vicinity or the public health, safety, morals, comfort, convenience orgeneral nve fare of the neighborhood or the city. With the current operation, the use has been affecting the use and enjoyment of other properties in the immediate vicinity. The level of noise the students make while utilizing the play area has been obtrusive to the neighboring property. There have been several incidents of objects being thrown over the fence, either accidentally or on purpose. The neighboring businesses are concerned for the safety of employees and customers as well as property damage. Staff recommends a 7-foot-tall opaque fence be installed across the entire south property line with a setback of 15-feet to establish a visual buffer and reduce conflicts with objects going over the fence. 2. mill be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The use will be consistent with the comprehensive plan. Staff does not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard. 3. mill not impede the normal and orderjdevelopment and improvement of surrounding vacant property. All adjacent properties are developed and the use will not impede the normal and orderly development and improvement of surrounding vacant property. Staff does not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard. 4. mill be served adequately by and avill not adversely affect essential public facilities and services including streets, police and fire protection, drainage, refuse disposal, ivater and seaver ystems, parks and schools; and avill not, in particular, create traffic congestion or interference moth traffic on adjacent and neighboring public thoroughfares. The use will be served adequately by and will not adversely affect essential public facilities and services including streets, police and fire protection, drainage, refuse disposal, water and sewer systems, parks and schools; and will not, in particular, create traffic congestion or interference with traffic on adjacent and neighboring public thoroughfares. Staff does not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard. 5. mill not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, equipment and conditions of operation that mill be detrimental to any persons or property because of excessive traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, odors, dust or vibrations. With the current operation, the use has been detrimental to neighboring properties. The level of noise the students make while utilizing the play area apparently has been obtrusive to the neighboring property. There have been several incidents of objects being thrown over the fence, either accidentally or on purpose. The neighboring businesses are concerned for the safety of employees and customers as well as property damage. Staff recommends a 7-foot-tall opaque fence be installed across the entire property 15 feet off the southern property line. A concern with schools is possible excessive traffic and parking. The applicant has shown how they will accommodate parking and where drop off/pick up vehicles will be queued on site. The site meets the parking requirements of the ordinance. 6. mill not result in the destruction, loss or damage of a natural, scenic or historic feature of major importance. The use will not result in the destruction, loss or damage of a natural, scenic or historic feature of major importance. Staff does not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard. 7. mill fully coVyvvitb all other requirements of this Code, including any applicable requirements and standards for the issuance of a license or permit to establish and operate the proposed use in the city. The use will fully comply with all other requirements of this Code, including any applicable requirements and standards for the issuance of a license or permit to establish and operate the proposed use in the city. Staff does not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard. If denial of such a permit should occur, it shall accompany recommendations or determinations by findings or a report stating how the proposed use does not comply with the standards set forth in Section 30-654. Financial Impact None Mission/Policy/Goal ■ Responsibly grow ■ Meet changing needs - Agile ■ Ethical, efficient, and responsible ■ Work with citizens to achieve goals ■ Help, not hinder citizen quality of life Attachments ■ Location Map ■ Applicant's Narrative ■ Site Plans ■ Architectural Plans/Elevations ■ Emails � 1 76-011-2260 ,i i tr010, cl lot 75-619-�2J0, "'� ,�. _ 75-679-02dR . �75a679-U112 i . 75-B79-02A6 .. c .4 75�79-0242• 1 S-010-�7 oil. 75-fi79-02d r T p .a Y 75 �7 9-023 S X` ,,� 75 �►79-423 6 � _. w 706 75.679-02 - y . pie r � 75167a-02.32 Three Rivers Montessori School Conditional Use Permit - w 75-679 108 Case No: CU 21-06 EIk -�-- River Three Rivers Montessori Project Narrative March 29, 2021 Detailed Description/Scope of Project The proposed project involves the renovation and reuse of the lower level of an existing multi -use school and office building at 17267 Yale St. NW. The property is currently owned by CSDC Facilities Corporation and leased to Three Rivers Montessori School. On May 20, 2020 CSDC Facilities Corporation and Three Rivers Montessori received a Conditional Use Permit to occupy the upper level of the existing building for use as a K-8 public charter school. The school currently serves K-6th grade in the 2020-2021 school year. An amendment to the CUP is required for future expansions/additions not shown on the site plan dated May 18, 2020. The newly proposed project calls for the rehabilitation of the lower level of the existing building, formerly occupied by commercial entities, to accommodate increased enrollment and family demand for the Three Rivers Montessori program. The rehabilitation consists primarily of interior renovations of the existing building with limited changes to the site, except for an additional stair, entry, and sidewalk for egress and accessibility, as well as the removal of the exterior overhang and associated curbs to better improve student drop off and pick up operations. Once completed, the remodeled building will serve approximately 175 students in grades Pre-K through Grade 8 to start the 2021-2022 school year. About Three River Montessori The Montessori method is focused on educating the whole being. Three Rivers Montessori organizes its work by providing educational experiences for the head, heart, and hands. This means that at every level Three Rivers Montessori is cultivating curiosity and offering high -quality academics (head), fostering healthy social/emotional interactions (heart), and providing work that is experiential and hands-on (hands). As a result of its philosophy, Three Rivers Montessori seeks to become recognized for academic excellence with a deep focus on environmental and earth sciences. Research indicates students require different approaches to learning in our constantly evolving world. There is a great need for our community to come together to create a school that will ensure future generations are taught to be creative, independent, critical thinkers who possess an intrinsic love of learning. Montessori education has incredible results and has produced some of the most successful entrepreneurs and great leaders of our times: Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon; Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Founders of Google; Steve Wozniak, Co-founder of Apple; Mark Zuckerberg, Founder of Facebook; Anne Frank; Julia Childs; Sean 'P. Diddy' Combs'; Prince Harry and Prince William, and many more. Transportation Narrative The school anticipates an enrollment of 175-students with approximately 40% using provided bus service and the other 60% coming and going by car. Based on the listed percentages, approximately 70- students would be bused. TRM is providing bus staging utilizing two full-sized (35-students) buses and a smaller bus (17- students). Assuming approximately 60% arrive by car, this leads to approximately 105- students. Typically given family enrollments, there are 1.5-students per car, which equates to approximately 70-car "transactions" at pickup and drop-off times. The two critical times for school transportation planning are the morning drop-off and afternoon pick- up. The attached diagrams show the proposed staging for each critical time period and how the above noted staging is accomplished. Morning Drop-off (a.m.) Due to the naturally staggered timing of morning drop-offs, this time period is much less demanding on a site. Buses arrive and drop-off students in a 5-minute window between 8:00am — 8:05am. Cars have a much longer 30-minute drop-off window between 8:00am — 8:30am. Both cars and buses will use the drop-off lane adjacent to the building and only cars will use the lane closest to Yale. The former canopy and associated curbs are being removed to better facilitate the drop off and pick up operations. Given the naturally staggered drop-offs, the longer car drop-off window, and the ability for cars to use multiple lanes for drop-off, it is anticipated that all vehicles will be "stored" on -site and we do not anticipate any vehicles staging on Yale Street. Afternoon Pick-up (p.m.) In the afternoon, staged buses will be parked in the drive aisle closest to the building. Bus loading and dismissal occurs in a fairly short 5-minute window between 2:30 pm — 2:35 pm. Once loaded, buses will have the right -of- way over the staged cars with the monitoring and coordination of school staff. Cars have a much longer 30-minute pick-up window between 2:30pm — 3:00pm. Initially, cars will only stage in the drive lane closest to Yale Street, as shown in the attached diagram. While buses are staged and filling, cars will be allowed to load and exit the site from the lane nearest Yale. Additional cars may also stage in the entrance drive to the lower lot. Once buses have departed the site, cars will also be allowed to use the lane closest to the school. Using both lanes will allow for 20-cars to stage simultaneously. Given the naturally staggered pick-ups, the longer car pick-up window, and the ability for cars to use multiple lanes for pick-up once buses depart, it is anticipated that all vehicles will be "stored" on -site and we do not anticipate any vehicles staging on Yale Street. How is the request consistent with the City of Elk River Comprehensive Plan? Similar to the time of the original Conditional Use Permit approval, Three Rivers Montessori will be the only Public Elementary Montessori school in the Elk River School District and will serve students in the Elk River and surrounding communities. Hours of Operation: Morning Care 6:30-8:00; Regular School Hours 8:00-2:30; After Care 2:30-6:00 Number of Employees: Approximately 20-25 staff, along with 3-4 volunteers possible during the day. Number of parking stalls. existing and additional: There site offers 24 parking stalls on the upper level and 17 stalls on the lower parking lot Is there a proposed screening of the site? No Proposed building material: The building will largely remain the same, with primarily interior renovations. The drive canopy will be removed with the exterior finishes to match the existing metal roof, EIFS, precast sill, and brick. The retaining wall to accommodate the new egress entry will be CMU block. The proposed materials will be complementary and aligned to the existing building and comply with standards for public charter schools. Signage — (at the time of installation, a separate permit is required for each sign): The project will remove existing commercial signage on the exterior of the building. Additional school signage is not proposed at this time. Is there outdoor storage? No / Site Plan - April 27, 2021 5' SIpEE / / \ u'oila '\ \ 0 SPLISX BLaY( \ �j \ \ 11 10 \ `\ � e IX. ACCESSIBLE SlAL6 SIRIPiNG EXISTING _ BUILDWG FFE = 900.45 ga LLE = 890.39 ;, ee_ ncccsslelr stun ACCE&41B - -IX. A4YY slag SIGN \—____---- RI r� Yale St NW Recommended ,y," • �� 7 foot tall fence Ak \ \ • \ \ \' \ a ­ � .ems \ \ \ , Fes, / / • i / / FM WALL TYPES NOTE: ALL WALLS SHALL BE BU I LT TO STRUCTURE ABOVE UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ®x nvo ror�ruics @ � cnieE i'ovau:ss sia•°vP.ao. u. sme s°vP.. cn. soe ueo "I BE ICI eie see acP N �'bW°suun°us E: o'6 o°oos uos ®` °"se seE scxs°u, ® I-EosEEsaEDUEON aaassssss0111 "s���iR°c as owAc .o s > s.aucNnc owac .o OUll'A°N enrichtng communities • through architecture IHREE RIVERS MONTESSORI 17267 YALE ST. ELK RIVER, MN. dAwby: c a.DYNby: Sx unWaa iwyi... �ipuima Am.u�oJNmB..m. i.w d .n.. U. FLOOR PLANS A2.1 ROOF PLAN GENERAL NOTES T� u 4 IN. 4 IN—. AT 11 —1 enrichtng nines • through architecture IHREE RIVERS MONTESSORI 17267 YALE Sr. ELK RIVER, MN. 21068 —1- ROOF PLAN =11A2.2 Ro —— --------------- -—-—-—-- - --- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - owta A. P—r 111 4"T - - - - - - - - - - - - - enrichtng communities • through h .. gh archi IHREE RIVERS MONTESSORI 17267 YALE ST. ELK RIVER, MN. '7' EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS A5.1 - - C O 13 \ Maple ,r ple \ \ IX. ACCESSoBLE Yale St NW MORNING DROPOFF TIME (8:00 - 8:05) 0 20 40 80 120 Scale in Feet / IXISRNG CURB CUT \ \ f / — f 0 EXISTING \ \ \ BUILDINGS FLE \ /^Ir L= 890.39 IX• ACCESSIBLE SIGN / \\ IX. ACCESSIBLE RAMP \ \ IX. ACCESSIBLE SIGN • \ IX. ACCESSIBLE \ STALL STRIPING i �^Asyh �B. F \ \ C Spruce 6. SpSpruce \ �ruca Spruce \ \ \ BO99WOOd Maple S. W-ld _ *4— Basswood \ \ \ �, Bos�.awood A�h� —AL p�,..� mcpIe' Yale St NW MORNING DROPOFF TIME (8:05 - 8:30) 0 20 40 80 120 Scale in Feet / IXISRNG CURB CUT \ \ f / — f 0 EXISTING \ \ \ BUILDINGS FLE \ /^Ir L= 890.39 IX• ACCESSIBLE SIGN / \\ IX. ACCESSIBLE RAMP \ \ IX. ACCESSIBLE SIGN • \\ \ IX. ACCESSIBLE ple \ STALL STRIPING ,i/y `�✓ \ , lYr IY' f \ \ C Spruce 6. Spruce \ \ \ �Spruca Spruce \ BO .weed • ..,\ Sp ce 7, Maple Ba.wood _ *PN� Basswood \ \ 5 i Bos�.awood AM Aar P ' Yale St NW AFTERNOON PICKUP TIME (2:30 - 2:35) 0 20 40 80 120 Scale in Feet / IXISRNG CURB CUT \ \ f / — f 0 EXISTING \ \ \ BUILDINGS FLE \ /^Ir L= 890.39 IX• ACCESSIBLE SIGN / \\ IX. ACCESSIBLE RAMP \ \ IX. ACCESSIBLE SIGN • \ IX. ACCESSIBLE \ STALL STRIPING i �^Asyh �B. F \ \ C Spruce 6. SpSpruce \ �ruca Spruce \ \ \ BO99WOOd Maple S. W-ld _ *4— Basswood \ \ \ �, Bos�.awood A�h� —AL p�,..� mcpIe' Yale St NW AFTERNOON PICKUP TIME (2:35 - 3:00) 0 20 40 80 120 Scale in Feet Leeseberg, Chris To: Carlton, Zachary Subject: RE: Letter regarding Three Rivers Montessori From: Sent: Tuesday, April 20, 20214:59 PM To: Carlton, Zachary <zcarlton@ElkRiverMN.gov> Subject: Letter regarding Three Rivers Montessori It is my understanding that Three Rivers Montessori is further applying for a conditional use permit due to expansion. I would like to clarify, we are for this positive business and welcome them to the community. With this growth of Three Rivers Montessori, it has created challenges. We have a business that neighbors the property line at 17205 Yale Street. The current low chain link fence is very close to our building and parking lot. We believe this has impacted our business with challenges that should be addressed. In our parking lot, we have seen chunks of broken concrete tossed over, sand filled pop/soda bottles and rocks that could provide damage to vehicles in our lot. In the patio area, we have witnessed frisbees and footballs thrown near or over us, as well as made contact with vehicles. We do utilize our outdoor space as well. The noise is to a point we can't hold conversations when the Montessori is using the outdoor space, as well as distractions of friendly kids walking up to the fence to say hi and ask our names. When indoors with our windows and doors closed, the sound of kids yelling and making all of the high pitched sounds kids do, the person on the other end of the phone call can hear this at times. I am not against having an outdoor play area for kids to burn off energy. I understand kids will be kids. We do feel it is necessary to push the fence line further back from the property line and replacing with a solid fence or other measures to block sound over into our space. We also feel the height of the fence should be a minimum of 8 feet to reduce the risk of things being thrown over causing damage to vehicles and potentially a person and hope this height would also block sound. We are concerned for safety, noticing several times a child trying to squeeze under the bendable chain link fence in a low spot, right next to a highway. As these challenges have been prevalent and should be addressed, we are even more concerned about additional kids and the frequency of utilizing the outdoor space under the current conditions. We appreciate the city and Three Rivers Montessori finding the solution incorporating our thoughts. Thanks, Ryan Wipf Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone Leeseberg, Chris To: Carlton, Zachary Subject: RE: Neighboring Business From: Sent: Tuesday, April 20, 2021 6:48 PM To: Carlton, Zachary <zcarlton@ElkRiverMN.gov> Subject: Neighboring Business To Whom It May Concern, We would like to express our increasing concern over playground time at Three Rivers Montessori school. I am writing on behalf of two other office personnel that have also witnessed, on several occasions, items being thrown over the chain link fence that borders our office building. Clearly the noise level has increased in the business park since the school has opened. We want to be able to work with the school but also have a professional business to run. We have seen some very close calls with items coming in close contact with our cars in the parking lot in front of our places of business. We would hate to see any vehicle damaged, or worse, a person using the outside patio space by our office, or someone entering/exiting our business. We have experienced the children trying to interact with our clients when we are using the patio space for private business discussions. We understand the pent up energy the kids are needing to burn off and encourage the time for them to run on the playground. However, we need to protect the kids and their needs but balance out with our business needs as well. We'd love to see an actual playground structure built for these active kids that would keep them busy, and hopefully kept closer to the school proximity which would immensely help alleviate some of the noise that is close to our professional buildings conducting business daily. A taller, solid fence would help block the noise, objects being thrown or the ball that accidentally escapes the little hands intended to receive it. Large evergreen trees planted along the fence line would be more aesthetically pleasing to all and a happy "fix" for all of us. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions regarding this manner. Kimberly H Fitzgerald Leeseberg, Chris To: Carlton, Zachary Subject: RE: Three Rivers Montessori School Conditional Use Permit - YALE ST From: Carlton, Zachary <zcarlton@ElkRiverMN.gov> Sent: Thursday, April 22, 2021 8:02 AM To: Leeseberg, Chris <CLeeseberg@ElkRiverMN.gov> Subject: FW: Three Rivers Montessori School Conditional Use Permit - YALE ST From: Sent: Wednesday, April 21, 2021 5:43 PM To: Carlton, Zachary <zcarlton@ElkRiverMN.gov> Subject: Three Rivers Montessori School Conditional Use Permit - YALE ST Hello Zach, My office is located at 17205 Yale ST. STE E. My office looks directly at the playground and the school. We are so happy for the school and business in Elk River. We have concerns with the playground. I watched a child pick up some concrete and throw it at my window (while I stood looking out of the window). There have been debris thrown into the parking lot and the grass of our location as well. I have photos for perspective. In a photo I show a cinder block on their playground. In another I show the concrete thrown at my window. The volume/noise from the children at play is quite loud. The noise is apparent while I am in meetings in my office. I would love to see a higher and solid fence to prevent the temptation to throw objects at our building and possible cars in the paring lot. Also, the sound would lessen. I do hope they continue to thrive and accommodate for the above. Thank you for your time. Cheers! X514 Delivering a Remarkable Experience... Every Step of the Way! Water stone * ^%w, MORTGAGE Ift- IWO Molly Nadeau -Peterson Branch Manager 91 in wysoeorn i.A{jl .� MAGAZIN DIAMOND �A WERTS CLV6 LEVEE LL BEST i•Yl,aR nCFIElW 'A/ eaAevArvlAs 7%17b K.Ari4M9f.YV6ER rn vq . IFl AAIFQfI[,¢ �[jli From: Rose Brinaus To: Sean Elder Cc: Leeseberg, Chris Subject: Re: FW: Neighboring Business Date: Thursday, April 22, 2021 2:54:33 PM Dear Chris: Three Rivers Montessori is committed to serving the Elk River area with an authentic Montessori program that meets the needs of individual children. We do this by providing manipulatives in the classroom that appeal to children's senses while allowing for freedom of movement and exploration both indoors and out. TRM is currently supported by our current school community of 83 students and their families. The school plans to double in size for the 2021-2022 school year and has approximately 150 students enrolled at this time. We are excited to continue to serve the families in our community by providing a free Montessori experience. Montessori programs are strongly rooted in respect of others and the environment. Staff and students have worked to be good neighbors both in the school building and outside on the playground. Each classroom has rules centered around respectful behavior as well and the school as a whole has playground rules that are reviewed with all staff and students regularly. Examples of some of these playground rules are: sticks and rocks stay on the ground; respect nature; respect others by using kind words and bodies; the fence is for safety rather than climbing; and all play happens inside the fence. There are typically 25-30 children on the playground three times a day (one recess for each classroom of 25-30 children). This "outside" time happens between 10:30am and 1:00pm, and 3-5 children are outside for about 45 minutes during aftercare from 3:00-3:45pm. Classroom assistants and special education paraprofessionals are supervising children on the playground as well as classroom teachers when appropriate. TRM considers all interactions as learning experiences. If we do harm to something or someone (intentional or not) we will look for how to rectify the situation. We very much welcome and appreciate open communication directly with the school and it's administration to help resolve matters. The TRM community is currently fundraising with the support of our families to add play structures to the field (current playground area). We are also exploring options to add this to the expansion project for the 2021-2022 school year. Not only do we believe this will help better serve the needs of our children, but will also promote engagement of the students in their play. We are continually surveying the playground for construction debris that may have shifted throughout the school year and with the seasons. If any debris is found, staff promptly remove it. We believe the majority of incidents where items (including debris or garbage) may have occurred toward the beginning of the school year. Three Rivers Montessori is proud to be a part of the Elk River community. We look forward to continuing to develop strong relationships with our neighbors. We are interested in economically feasible ways to collaborate on solutions. Any matters surrounding playground behavior or concerns can be directed to admin&a threeriversmontessori.org or by calling the Director, Rose Bringus at 763-595- 1213. Thank you, Rose Bringus Executive Director Rose Bringus I Executive Director rose.Bringus&threeriversmontessori.org Three Rivers Montessori Charter School I District 4266-07 17267 Yale St NW Elk River, MN 55330 763-595-1213 www.threeriversmontessori.org www.facebook.com/threeriversmontessorl Danielle Gloege 20185 County Rd 43 Big Lake MN 55309 City Planning Commission 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River MN 55330 Dear Planning Commission, I am writing in support of the physical expansion of Three River Montessori Charter School. Thank you for taking the time to review this letter. A bit about me- I am a 35- year-old mother of 3. 1 have lived in Sherburne County for upwards of 14 years. I am committed to the betterment of the community and agencies that I am affiliated with. I believe that the expansion of Three Rivers Montessori will be great for this community. A Montessori education helps develop curious, independent, confident learners, which will feed into the workforce of Elk River and beyond. The benefits of Montessori are numerous and will only provide benefit to the community. The Montessori Method allows children to become leaders, naturally, by having multi -level classrooms. The Montessori Method also encourages understanding, a passion for social justice, and pleasure in learning for their entire lives. I have seen my own child grow exponentially in the small time she has had the pleasure of attending Three Rivers Montessori. She has become a better leader, reader, and mathematician. I have confidence that the expansion of Three Rivers Montessori will afford this for many other children. When my middle son was just 2, 1 knew he would not be benefited by the traditional public -school system. Once he reached school -age I told anyone that would listen that he couldn't sit in his desk listening to instruction and following teacher coaching for 6+ hours a day. I investigated a Montessori education for him at that time, however our family didn't have the luxury of affording private schools and there were no public offerings nearby. I chose a Public Charter School for him that was not near my house because they took ideas from the Montessori Method and applied them to their lower grades. I wanted my son to have the experience of a Montessori education, however that was not possible for him. For the same reasons my youngest daughter attended the same Public Charter School for her first 2 schoolyears. When I learned of Three Rivers Montessori opening, I enrolled her immediately. During my time at the other Public Charter School we attended I have formed many friendships with other parents. Several of them have expressed interest in a Montessori education for their children that have not yet started school, and even switching to Three Rivers Montessori for their school -aged children. The Montessori Method is well respected and works well for children while giving parents comfort in knowing that their child is allowed to learn and grow at their own rate. This school has been a great asset to our family and all of the families that I have spoken to that are attending. Expanding Three Rivers Montessori will allow more choice for parents that are desperate to make these kinds of choices for their family. The expansion of Three Rivers Montessori will be a great asset to the growing city of Elk River as well as other areas of Sherburne County. It has brought families from other areas to your city to do all sorts of activities because it is near their child's school. I choose doctors, therapists, grocery stores, fast food, gas stations and many other things due to the proximity to my children's school. Since my children go to school in Elk River, I spend my hard-earned money in your city. Allowing this school to grow will not only benefit the school itself, it will benefit the businesses nearby and the families that are given a choice in the education their child(ren) will receive. Again, I thank you for taking the time to review my letter. Your careful consideration on expanding Three Rivers Montessori is appreciated. Best, Danielle Gloege Three Rivers Montessori Parent 651-757-5222 daniellemgloege@outlook.com [�andduf 5< 2 PC, rn eah)-� y/aIJaa Jonna Duke 14661 Lawndale Ln N Dayton, MN 55327 City Planning Commission 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River MN 55330 Elk River City Planning Commission: Three Rivers Montessori (TRM) has become a huge part of my family's support system. My children began attending school there in the fall of 2020. In this past year I have seen my children grow in measurable ways everything from their academics to their compassionate awareness of others. TRM has fostered the energy of hope, community and passion for my family. The expansion of TRM into the lower level of the building they occupy will support the community in providing a small scale school with an alternative teaching style that is preferable to many families. Their environmental focus will help cultivate an awareness and community activism that generations of families will benefit from. Education is a vital foundation to our society's ability to rejuvenate and innovate. Three Rivers Montessori is here to help each student discover their unique contribution to the community. Best, aOWW DJW Three Rivers Montessori Parent and Board Member 612-990-9298 jonna.duke@threeriversmontessori.org Jonna Duke 14661 Lawndale Ln N Dayton, MN 55327 City Planning Commission 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River MN 55330 Elk River City Planning Commission: Three Rivers Montessori (TRM) has become a huge part of my family's support system. My children began attending school there in the fall of 2020. In this past year I have seen my children grow in measurable ways everything from their academics to their compassionate awareness of others. TRM has fostered the energy of hope, community and passion for my family. The expansion of TRM into the lower level of the building they occupy will support the community in providing a small scale school with an alternative teaching style that is preferable to many families. Their environmental focus will help cultivate an awareness and community activism that generations of families will benefit from. Education is a vital foundation to our society's ability to rejuvenate and innovate. Three Rivers Montessori is here to help each student discover their unique contribution to the community. Best, Three Rivers Montessori Parent and Board Member 612-990-9298 jonna.duke@threeriversmontessori.org M 3 3SVHd — =SS31No11► S2LM 33&U NVid HOR4 UMO 311E i2 I 9 a: 5/14/2021 Three Rivers Montessori Charter School Mail - Fence proposal for Three Rivers Montessori Rose Bringus <rose.bringus@threerivemmontessori.org> Fence proposal for Three Rivers Montessori Molly Nadeau -Peterson <mnadeau@waterstonemortgage.com> Fri, May 14, 2021 at 12:06 PM To: Rose Bringus <rose.bringus@threeriversmontessod.org> Hello Rose, Thank you for sharing and including me on your businesses fencing. I think the addition of the trees will look lovely. I have two boys and understand their nature and energy level. I love hearing and seeing the children at play. We missed that with the COVID breaks. I know this fence is an expensive addition. I hope the fence will become the deterrent from the kids throwing things over. We are very happy to see your school grow and thrive. We have some young mothers in our office that talk about visiting your school for their children. Cheers! Delivering a Remarkable Experience... Every Step of the Way! Molly Nadeau -Peterson Branch Manager NMLS #308436 17205 Yale Street Northwest, Suite D Elk River, MN 55330 0: 612.567.1471 F: 952.314.1515 Email: mnadeau@WaterstoneMortgage.com Visit My Website Mobile App Now bttps:l/mail.google.coxWmail/u/2?ik=b4296afcb l&vicw=pt&scarch=all&permmsgid=msg-f963A1699754241015517724&simpl--mug-f%3A 1694754241015517724 1/2 5/14/2021 Three Rivers Montessori Charter School Mail - Proposal for fence from Three Rivers Montessori Rose Bringus <rose.bringusLMthreeriversmontessor[.org> Proposal for fence from Three Rivers Montessori Wipf,Ryan <Ryan.Wipf@edwardjones.com> Thu, May 13, 2021 at 12:06 PM To: Rose Br]ngus <rose.bdngus@threeriversmontessod.org> Anytime! We were requesting 8 feet height, but we feel a minimum of 7 feet for sound and prevention of items making their way over the fence. Also, looking at the drawing, it appears the cedar fence stops at the building and not at the parking lot. Since our vehicles have had some contact with items in the playground space, we want to make sure people walking in the parking lot as well as vehicles are being protected and feel the cedar fence should carry to the current fence corner towards the road. Essentially, we would like the higher cedar fence to run the entire length of the building and the parking lot. One of the tenants in the building did give an opinion that if the cedar fence carried to that comer close to the road to your current fence setback, it would not block the view of traffic on the road (coming out of our parking lot), but should be verified by someone else. I know these requests aren't as economical, but we feel they are needed for a good fit. Let us know If you have any other questions and happy to help. We are excited for your business and the success you have already achieved. Ryt r. C`� i ff �Flncncit[ /.dvievr Street NW, Suite A Elk River, MN 553301763441-6824 Because I spend most of my time personally meeting with clients or talking with you on the phone, 1 am unable to check my email as often as I like. We are committed to giving excellent client service, therefore, if you need an immediate answer or response, please contact my office at .,o/ Y41-6824 and Emily, Kimberly, or Marie will be happy to assist you. We want to make sure that you get your question or request handled as soon as possible. On May 13, 2021, at 11:54 M, Rose Brnngus <rose.bringus@threeriversmontessori.or,> wrote: [Quoted text hidden] https:l/mail.google.com/mail/u/2?ik=b4296afcbl&view=pt&semb=all&permmsgidansg-f%3A 1699663683278668864&simpl=msg-f%3A1699663683278668864 1/ 1 5/1412021 Three Rivers Montessori Charter School Mail - Proposal for fence from Three Rivers Montessori Rose Bringus <rose.bringus@threerivemmontessori.org> Proposal for fence from Three Rivers Montessori HeiserXimberly E Kimberly.Heiser@edwardjones.com> To: "rose.bringus@threeriversmontessori.org" <rose.bringus@threeriversmontessori.org> Good morning, Rose — Fri, May 14, 2021 at 11:57 AM Thank you for the note. We love the new plan and believe that will work well for all involved if we can agree to the fence being a minimum of 7 feet The proposed tree line addition is excellent! Thank youl Kimberly Kimberly Heiser Branch Office Administrator Edward Jones Ryan Wipf, Financial Advisor 17205 Yale St NW, Suite A Elk River, MN 55330 763-441-6824 / 888-729-5001 Emily DeLuca, Branch Office Administrator Emily. Defuca@edwardjones.com Marie Woods, Branch Office Administrator Marie.Woods@edwardjones.com Stay connected anytime, anywhere. Enroll in Online Access today. hops:llmail.google.00m/maillul27ik=b4296afcb l&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f%3A1699753697905234249&simpl=msg-f %3A 1699753697905234249 1 /2 From: WODERvan To: Rose Brinaus Subject: RE: Proposal for fence from Three Rivers Montessori Date: Sunday, May 16, 20217:59:38 PM Hi Rose, I think with the 7 ft solid fence and the trees as you mentioned to cover length of building plus parking lot, that looks good. Hmmm... I don't know a Kimberly Fitzgerald, or what company she is with in the building. I did hear an office team member mention something about pine trees and like this design as well. Let us know if anything else we can help with. Have a great week. Ryan Wipf IFinanciial Advisor 1 17205 Yale Street NW, Suite A I Elk River, MN 553301763-441-6824 Because I spend most of my time personally meeting with clients or talking with you on the phone, I am unable to check my email as often as I like. We are committed to giving excellent client service, therefore, if you need an immediate answer or response, please contact my office at (763) 441-6824 and Emily or Marie will be happy to assist you. We want to make sure that you get your question or request handled as soon as possible. From: Sent: Thursday, May 13, 2021 5:38 PM To: Subject: Re: Proposal for fence from Three Rivers Montessori CAV71V�: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Thank you for your response Ryan! We will explore the 7ft height for the fence which matches the city staff's recommendations to City Council. I have attached another plan which includes the cedar fence the length of the building and a row of tree that would provide a barrier from our playground to your parking lot. I have included information about the trees in handwriting on the plan. The trees would be very close together, creating a natural barrier. I believe Kimberly Fitzgerald recommended that a tree line could be something agreeable to all. I am also happy to reach out to Kimberly as well, however I am having trouble locating her information. Would you possibly be able to point me in the right direction or if you are more comfortable reaching out to her and providing my email to her? Thankyou! Rose Bringus I Executive Director rose. bringns 0three rive r mo ntessori.or& Three Rivers Montessori Charter School I District 4266-07 17267 Yale St NW Elk River, MN 55330 763-595-1213 1 www.threeriversmontessori.org www.facebook.com/threeriversmontessori On Thu, May 13, 2021 at 12:06 PM Wipf,Ryan <Ryan.Wiofna edwardiones.com> wrote: Anytime! We were requesting 8 feet height, but we feel a minimum of 7 feet for sound and prevention of items making their way over the fence. Also, looking at the drawing, it appears the cedar fence stops at the building and not at the parking lot. Since our vehicles have had some contact with items in the playground space, we want to make sure people walking in the parking lot as well as vehicles are being protected and feel the cedar fence should carry to the current fence corner towards the road. Essentially, we would like the higher cedar fence to run the entire length of the building and the parking lot. One of the tenants in the building did give an opinion that if the cedar fence carried to that corner close to the road to your current fence setback, it would not block the view of traffic on the road (coming out of our parking lot), but should be verified by someone else. I know these requests aren't as economical, but we feel they are needed for a good fit. Let us know if you have any other questions and happy to help. We are excited for your business and the success you have already achieved. Ryan Wipf I Financial Advisor l .: Because I spend most of my time personally meeting with clients or talking with you on the phone, I am unable to check my email as often as I like. We are committed to giving excellent client service, therefore, if you need an immediate answer or response, please contact my office at (763) 441-6924 and Emily, Kimberly, or Marie will be happy to assist you. We want to make sure that you get your question or request handled as soon as possible. On May 13, 2021, at 11:54 AM, Rose Bringus <rose.bringus(@threeriversmontessori.ore> wrote: CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hi Ryan, Thank you for catching that in my email! The plan is correct - that we would be planning for a 6 ft fence. Take care, Rose Bringus I Executive Director rose,bringus(@threeriversmontessori.org Three Rivers Montessori Charter School I District 4266-07 17267 Yale St NW Elk River, MN 55330 763-595-1213 1 .yww.thr eeriversmonttfssori.ore www.facebook.com/threeriversmontessori On Thu, May 13, 2021 at 10:17 AM Wipf,Ryan <g)jan.Wipf(@edwardiones.com> wrote: Hi Rose, Thanks for reaching out. I wanted to clarify, in your message below, you mentioned 15-17 ft height for the fence and the attachment I believe showed 6 ft. Could you clarify? Thanks, Ryan Wipf iFinancial Advisor 17205 Yale Street NW, Suite A I Elk River, MN 553301 763-441-6824 Because I spend most of my time personally meeting with clients or talking with you on the phone, I am unable to check my email as often as I like. We are committed to giving excellent client service, therefore, if you need an immediate answer or response, please contact my office at (763) 441-6824 and Emily or Marie will be happy to assist you. We want to make sure that you get your question or request handled as soon as possible. From: Sent: Wednesday, May 12, 20219:41 AM To: Subject: Proposal for fence from Three Rivers Montessori CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hi Ryan, I called your office and was told you are out with a new baby, congrats and I hope things are going well! Our team met with the City Planning Commission earlier this month. Following the meeting we drafted a proposal for a fence line along the south side of our playground. This would be a cedar fence that runs the length of your building - please see attachment. This would help provide a shield from objects as well as provide a sound barrier and privacy for you and your clients. At this time the fence will be at a height of 15 to 17 ft, depending on city recommendations. Essentially we are looking for something from you to convey to the City Council that you are amenable to this proposal and that it will minimize disturbances from our playground. Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to discuss further. The City Council hearing is Monday, May 17th so I appreciate your time while you are out of the office! Take care, Rose Bringus I Executive Director rose, bringusPthr riv rsmontessori nro Three Rivers Montessori Charter School I District 4266-07 17267 Yale St NW Elk River, MN 55330 763-595-1213 1 www threeriversmon on org www.facebook.com/threeriversmontessori Ryan Wipf Financial Advisor Edward Jones 17205 Yale St Nw Ste A Elk River, MN 55330 (763)441-6824 www.edwardoones.com If you are not the intended recipient of this message (including attachments) or if you have received this message in error, immediately notify us and delete it and any attachments If you do not wish to receive any email messages from Edward Jones, excluding administrative communications, please email this request to Opt-Out(Weclwardbrjes.corn from the email address you wish to unsubscribe. For important additional information related to this email, visit www.edwardoones.com/disclosures/emaol.htmi. Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. d/b/a Edward Jones, 12555 Manchester Road, St. Louis, MO 63131 © Edward Jones. All rights reserved. Three Rivers Montessori School CUP -ti r 5-01 -141251? 1 ►y 'ri :Jib_ IN -' NJy 7,40#I 4*0 -679-024G 75� 75679-0244 1 171y: 75-679-i�2.1C? 9 5 i d' Er i T575 �}1106 0234 Three Rivers Montessori S"chool Cotiditlonq,l Use Permit 79-679=0232 11 75-67Z,)e 10 d Case No- CU 21-05 [ :. Elk . , River Background ■ Amend CUP — Expand Educational Use ■ Small addition for stairs ■ 175 students (Pre-K thru Grade 8) ■ 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. ■ 20-25 staff, along with 3-4 volunteers 1 MAIN LEVEL FLOOR PLAN �!u EM M� SF ]A85F 91)Sf ERE e � v ]asul is�n uSSRE] v Euv. E4uiv j f la] CW!!NM accxrE�]c rim , LOWE z ,AER LEVEL FLOOR PLAN , Parking &Transportation ■ 14 parking required (24 upper 17 lower) ■ 40% use bus ■ 60% by car (105 cars — they say 1.5 students per car 70 cars) ■ 8:00-8:05 a.m. -busses ■ 8:05-8:30 a.m. -cars ■ 2:30-2:35 p.m. -busses ■ 2:35-3:00 p.m. -cars r,t4,a�r Cm Cauff r • rr x i 1 V` ' r 'f VA Ar— All Yale St NW MORNING DROPOFF TIME (8:00 - 8:05) z 0 20 40 a0 120 Scale in Feet ! ! L Ir----------- ------ Yale St NW MORNING DROPOFF TIME (8:05 - 8:30) z 0 20 40 a0 120 Scale in Feet Yale St NW AFTERNOON PICKUP TIME (2:30 - 2:35) z 0 20 40 a0 120 Scale in Feet ! ! L Ir----------- ------ Yale St NW AFTERNOON PICKUP TIME (2:35 - 3:00) z 0 20 40 a0 120 Scale in Feet Planning Commission ■ Emails received from neighboring businesses ■ Letters of support ■ Applicant questioned if coniferous trees would be enough ■ Commission discussed screening options ■ Fencing best option ■ Above T required building permit ■ Discussed vehicles and drop-off area ■ No recommendation Planning Commission ■ Staff received updated screening plan ■ Several businesses A with new plan ■ They prefer 7-feet ■ Applicant A with 7-feet Q k� r' CUP Requirements ■ PC analysis of the application shows compliance with 5 of the 7 standards required for approval of the CUP ■ Standards 1 & 5 which deal with comfort, safety, and noise ■ Conditions should help ensure these are not a concern Action Requested ■ Approve, by motion, the CUP with the conditions outlined in the memo -ti r 5-01 -141251? 1 ►y 'ri :Jib_ IN -' NJy 7,40#I 4*0 -679-024G 75� 75679-0244 1 171y: 75-679-i�2.1C? 9 5 i d' Er i T575 �}1106 0234 Three Rivers Montessori S"chool Cotiditlonq,l Use Permit 79-679=0232 11 75-67Z,)e 10 d Case No- CU 21-05 [ :. Elk . , River Q k� r'