11-14-2006 PC MINMEETING OF THE ELK RIVER PLANNING COMMISSION
HELD AT ELK RIVER CITY HALL
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2006
Members Present: Chair Lemke, Commissioners Anderson, Offerman, Ropp, Scott, Stevens
and Westgaard
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Planning Manager Jeremy Barnhart, Senior Planner Sheila Cartney, City
Engineer Terry Maurer, Community Development Director Scott Clark,
Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich, Recording
Secretary Debbie Huebner
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 Lemke.
2. Consider 9/ 14/06 Planning Commission Agenda
MOVED BY COMMISSIONER STEVENS AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER ROPP TO APPROVE THE NOVEMBER 14, 2006 PLANNING
COMMISSION AGENDA WITH THE FOLLOWING ADDITION:
ADD ITEM 6.2 -UPDATE ON DOWTOWN REDEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE
- COMMISSIONER ANDERSON
MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
3.1. Consider October 10, 2006 Planning Commission Minutes
MOVED BY COMMISSIONER SCOTT AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER ROPP TO APPROVE THE OCTOBER 10, 2006 MINUTES
WITH THE FOLLOWING CORRECTION:
ITEM NO. 1-MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER BY VICE CHAIR
STEVENS
MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
4. Planning Commission Representative to Attend November 20, 2006 City Council Meeting
Commissioner Anderson will attend the November 20, 2006 City Council meeting.
5.1. Request by 7040 Lakeland Partners for Conditional Use Permit for Elk Ridge Center 4th
Addition (Aldi's), Public Hearing -Case No. Cu 06-27
Planner Chris Leeseberg explained that the applicant has requested this item be postponed
to the December 12, 2006 Planning Commission to allow the applicant time to make
Planning Commission Minutes Page 2
November 14, 2006
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revision to their plans. He noted that the public hearing notice was published in the Star
News for this meeting.
Chair Lemke opened the public hearing. There being no public comment, Chair Lemke
closed the public hearing.
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON TO TABLE THE REQUEST BY 7040
LAKELAND PARTNERS FOR ALDI'S TO THE DECEMBER 12, 2006
MEETING. MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
5.2. Request by Sherburne County HRA For the Redevelopment District No. 2 and Project Plan
for Medical TPChnnlnw C'pntPr Flk Path Rncinacc Parlr Third Addition Pnhlir Haarino _
Ms. Mehelich provided background information regarding Sherburne County's plans for
Redevelopment District No. 2 and construction of a Medical Technology Center. She
explained the location of the subject property and the process the County must undertake to
achieve their goals. The Planning Commission is asked to find that the redevelopment plan
and project are consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan.
Chair Lemke opened the public hearing. There being no public comment, Chair Lemke
closed the public hearing.
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER STEVENS AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER SCOTT TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 0601, A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY OF ELK RIVER PLANNING COMMISSION FINDING THAT
THE SHERBURNE COUNTY HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY'S REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT 2 AND PROJECT PLAN FOR
THE MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY CENTER CONFORM TO THE GENERAL
PLANS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND REDEVELOPMENT OF THE CITY
OF ELK RIVER. MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
5.3. Request by Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of Elk River for Approval of
a Redevelopment Project Dated November 1, 2006 -Public Hearine
Mr. Clark explained that the City's HRA is in the process of adopting a "Redevelopment
Plan for Downtown Elk River, dated November 1, 2006". He reviewed the phases of the
plan and details as outlined in the "Redevelopment Plan" attached to the staff report dated
November 14, 2006. Mr. Clark stated that the Planning Commission is asked to make a
finding that the Redevelopment Plan conforns to the general plan for the development of
the City as a whole. He noted that this finding means that the Phase II activity, which will
be the HRA's anticipated acquisition of the Main Street Mall and its conversion eventually to
some form of parking, is consistent with both the City's Comprehensive Plan and Zoning
Ordinance.
Commissioner Scott asked how many properties are involved in Phase II? Mr. Clark stated
there are two buildings. Commissioner Stevens asked if Elk River Meats would be the only
building remaining. Mr. Clark stated yes and that the HRA has not indicated interest in
acquiring other properties at this time, but that the entire block could eventually be included.
He stated that the two buildings (Phase II) became available on the open market and that is
the reason the HRA is taking action at this time. Commissioner Stevens asked if the City
would be leasing out the buildings in the interim. Mr. Scott stated that a decision regarding
Planning Commission Minutes Page 3
November 14, 2006
---------------------------
the use of the buildings has not be worked out at this time, but that there is an active lease
on the O~eilly property for 12 months. Mr. Clark noted that the need for parking in the
downtown will determine when a parking project would be undertaken. Commissioner
Stevens asked when demolition is planned. Mr. Clark stated that no demolition is planned at
this time, but that cost is included in the budget for the project.
Chair Lemke opened the public hearing. There being no public comment, Chair Lemke
closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Stevens stated that he realizes that something will need to be done to address
the parking need downtown, but that he has a concern for the loss of two more buildings.
He stated he would rather see the space filled in with more buildings than a parking space.
Commissioner Anderson stated that he felt it was a good time for the City to move forward
with the downtown redevelopment plan. He felt it makes sense to acquire the properties
now when they are available for sale. He stated he was in favor of the overall plan as
presented.
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER ANDERSON AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER WESTGAARD TO APPROVE THE "REDEVELOPMENT
PLAN FOR DOWNTOWN ELK RIVER" REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT,
DATED NOVEMBER 1, 2006 AND FINDS THAT "THE REDEVELOPMENT
PLAN CONFORMS TO THE GENERAL PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF
THE CITY AS A WHOLE." MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
5.4. Request by Edward Dulak for Zone Change from Rld to Rlc Single Fancily Residential
(Preserve Ponds), Public Hearing -Case No. ZC 06-05
5.5. Request by Edward Dulak for Preliminary Plat Approval of Preserve Ponds, Public Hearine
- Case No. P 06-18
Senior Planner Sheila Cartney reviewed the request by Edward Dulak to rezone portions of a
40.5-acre site to R1c in order to subdivide the property into 381ots and 3 outlots. She noted
that C+utlots A and B will not be rezoned at this time, and C+utlot C is a drainage and utility
easement. Ms. Cartney reviewed the status of sewer and water availability, lot sizes, location
of the large Xcel Energy easement and its impact on lots 1-11, Block 3, NRI determination,
Parks and Recreation Commission recommendation, streets, trails, sidewalks, utilities, and
landscaping requirements. Staff recommends approval of the rezoning and preliminary plat
with the 15 conditions listed in the staff report to the Commission dated November 14,
2006.
Commissioner Stevens questioned if the lots along County Highway 40 would still meet the
11,000 square foot minimum lot size, due to the proposed berm. Ms. Cartney stated that the
bermed area would be included in the lot size.
Commissioner Westgaard asked why Outlot A was not being platted. City Engineer Terry
Maurer stated that due to the County Highway 40 realignment, a land swap involving Outlot
A is being negotiated between the developers of River Park and Liberty Heights Estates. He
stated that he has seen the plan for platting of this property. Commissioner Stevens asked
where the road will match up. He stated that River Park will be revised to make the road
and sewer and water connections possible.
Planning Commission Minutes Page 4
November 14, 2006
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Chair Lemke asked why Parks and Recreation Commission is asking fora 50-foot wide trail.
Ms. Cartney stated she is not sure, but that they have asked for it to be platted as an outlot,
as well. Chair Lemke questioned why the trail was needed, since there would be a
bituminous trail two houses away. Planning Manager Barnhart explained that he believed
the trail is to offer a n neighborhood connection to the property to the south.
Commissioner Offerman asked for clarification on the availability of sewer and water
services. Mr. Maurer explained that the property has been in the Urban Service District for
some time, and that it is deep enough and sized to service the area. He stated that approval
of the plat could be contingent upon the developers of River Park and Preserve Ponds
working out how the connections would be accomplished. Commissioner Offerman asked
if the connections would come from the north. Mr. Maurer explained how the connections
are proposed to be made. He noted that the developers need to work together in order for
it to be approved by the Planning Commission and City Council.
Chair Lemke opened the public hearing.
Ross Abel of John Oliver & Associates, representative of the developer -Stated that he
also did not understand the request for the 50-foot wide trail, since there is a segment of trail
two lots away. He stated that the side yard setback of two lots would be significantly
impacted by this request. Mr. Abel stated that they would have no problem increasing the
landscaping on Lot 8-12, Block 1 to screen the lots from the highway. He noted that the
water connection was via County Highway 40. ????
There being no further public comment, Chair Lemke closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Westgaard questioned the lot size being requested. Ms. Cartney stated that
other residential PUD's have similar lot sizes. Commissioner Westgaard stated that as long
as all of the City Engineer's concerns were addressed, he was in favor of approval of the
request. He noted that he also did not understand the request for the 50-foot trail width.
He suggested that the condition be removed, since they had no information to justify the
request.
Conunissioner Anderson suggested that the condition be included and that the Parks and
Recreation representative could present their recommendation to the City Council.
Commissioner Ropp asked where the nearest park is located. Mr. Barnhart stated that
nearest park is in the River Park plat. He noted that it is anticipated when the property to
the south is developed, a larger park will be created. Also, a park is proposed for the Liberty
Heights project.
Conuiussioner Offerman stated he was not in favor of removing the Parks and Recreation
Commission recommendation, since trail connections are important. Commissioner Stevens
concurred.
Commissioner Scott expressed concern that 1/3 of the backyards of Lots 5 - 10, Block 3
will not be useable, due to the power line easement. He stated that he also concurred with
leaving the 50-foot trail connection in the recommendations. Commissioner Offerman
stated that the properly owners of Lots 5-10 will still be able to use and enjoy their entire
backyard for a garden or whatever, just that no structures can be built in the easement.
Planning Commission Minutes Page 5
November 14, 2006
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MOTION BY COMMISSIONER STEVENS AND SECONDED BY
CONIlVIISSIONER WESTGAARD TO RECONIIVIEND APPROVAL OF THE
REQUEST TO REZONE CERTAIN PROPERTY FROM R1D TO R1C SINGLE
FAMILY RESIDENTIAL, CASE NO. ZC 06-05. MOTION ('.ARRIED 7-0.
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER STEVENS AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER ROPP TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE REQUEST
BY EDWARD DULAK FOR PRELIMINARY PLAT OF PRESERVE PONDS,
CASE NO. P 06-18, WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. ALL COMMENTS AND CONDITIONS OF THE CITY ENGINEER'S
MEMO DATED NOVEMBER 8, 2006 SHALL BE ADDRESSED.
2. ALL COMMENTS AND CONDITIONS OF THE SHERBURNE COUNTY
MEMO DATED OCTOBER 5, 2006 SHALL BE ADDRESSED.
3. THE DEVELOPMENT SHALL MEET ALL APPLICABLE BUILDING
CODES.
4. THE DEVELOPMENT SHALL MEET ALL APPLICABLE FIRE CODES.
THE FIRE CHIEF SHALL VERIFY LOCATION OF ALL FIRE
HYDRANTS, AND MAY REQUIRE ADDITIONAL HYDRANTS
NECESSARY TO PRESERVE THE HEALTH AND GENERAL WELFARE
OF THE RESIDENTS.
5. IN ADDITION TO THE EASEMENTS SHOWN IN THE PRELIMINARY
PLAT, THE FOLLOWING EASEMENTS SHALL BE PROVIDED:
A. A 15 FOOT TRAIL EASEMENT IS REQUIRED ON BOTH SIDES
OF COUNTY ROAD 40.
B. A 50-FOOT TRAIL CONNECTION BETWEEN LOTS 12 AND 13
BLOCK 3, IN THE FORM OF AN OUTLOT SHALL BE CREATED.
C. A 15-FOOT LANDSCAPE EASEMENT SHALL BE PROVIDED
ALONG COUNTY ROAD 40 WITH THE PROPOSED
LANDSCAPING AND A BERM.
6. AN EARTH BERM OF AN UNDULATING HEIGHT OF 2-4 FEET
SHOULD BE INSTALLED ON LOTS 8-12 BLOCK 1, AND LOT 14, BLOCK 3.
7. A WETLAND BUFFER OF 25 FEET APPLY TO ALL WETLANDS AND A
STRUCTURE SETBACK OF 20 FEET FROM THE BUFFER APPLIES.
8. THE APPLICANT SHALL PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION THAT
SANITARY SEWER AND WATER WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM THE
RIVER PARK DEVELOPMENT TO SERVE THIS DEVELOPMENT.
9. STORM DRAINAGE CALCULATIONS ARE REQUIRED PRIOR TO FINAL
PLAT APPROVAL.
10. A NPDES PERMIT APPLICATION FOR STORM WATER POLLUTION
PREVENTION PLAN (SWPPP) SHALL BE SUBMITTED PRIOR TO FINAL
PLAT APPROVAL.
11. ALL REQUIRED SUBDIVISION/PARK INFORMATION SHALL BE
PROVIDED IN AN ELECTRONIC FORMAT (.DWG FILE) AS REQUIRED
BY THE CITY ORDINANCE AND LAND USE APPLICATION PRIOR TO
RECORDING OF THE PLAT.
12. THE FOLLOWING FEES SHALL APPLY:
A. PARK DEDICATION SHALL BE IN THE FORM OF CASH AT THE
RATE APPLICABLE AT THE TIME OF FINAL PLAT RECORDING.
B. A SEAL COAT FEE SHALL BE PAID, AT THE RATE APPLICABLE
AT THE TIME OF FINAL PLAT RECORDING, PRIOR TO
RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 6
13. A LETTER OF CREDIT IN THE AMOUNT OF 100% OF THE COST OF
THE IMPROVEMENTS SHALL BE SUBMITTED PRIOR TO THE
RELEASING OF THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
14. THE APPLICANT SHALL EXECUTE A DEVELOPER'S AGREEMENT
OUTLINING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL.
15. APPROVED STREET SIGNAGE PLAN SHALL BE SUBMITTED PRIOR TO
FINAL PLAT APPLICATION.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
5.6.
5.7.
5.8.
5.9.
Planning Manager Jeremy Barnhart presented the request by Elk River Holdings for a Land
Use Amendment, Rezoning, Conditional Use Permit and Preliminary Plat. The applicant
proposes to subdivide 276.82 acres, located east of County Highway 40 and south of Viking
Boulevard, into 452 single family lots and 6 outlots. The lots range in size from 9,750 square
feet to 36,887 square feet, with 29,75 acres being dedicated for a school and 10 acres for a
park. The project will be completed in 8 phases. He noted that access will be provided for
the two property owners who do not wish to sell.
Mr. Barnhart reviewed recommendations regarding the park dedication, transportation,
trails, and sidewalks, natural resource, landscaping, as well as the basis for the
Comprehensive Plan amendment.
Commissioner Stevens asked which stands of trees would be retained. Mr. Barnhart stated
that more clarification is needed as to where those trees are, noting that as many trees as
possible will be saved.
Commissioner Offerman asked where the phasing will start. Mr. Barnhart stated that
development will begin on the south, working northward.
Commissioner Scott asked what was decided on the concept for a ttuinel under County
Highway 40 to connect the two schools. Mr. Maurer stated that it was not feasible.
Commissioner Scott asked how they will be connected. Mr. Maurer stated that there will be
a crossing at the intersection of County Highway 40 and 191 Avenue, and if the second
school and the park are completed, the intersection will need to be signalized. He noted that
there have been discussion regarding an overhead pedestrian crossing, but no decision has
been made.
Chair Lemke opened the public hearing.
Chris Holzem,19246 Baugh Street -stated his property abuts the subject property on the
west side. He stated that most of the lots next to this property in Anoka County are five
acres in size, with nothing less than 2 1/z acres. He asked if there has been any agreement
with Burns Township to develop the roads. Mr. Maurer stated that two meetings have
PUD (Planned Unit Development), Public Hearing -Case No. ZC 06-01
Request by Elk River Hodings for Conditional Use Permit for Residential Planned Unit
Development, Public Hearing -Case No. CU 06-02
Request by Elk River Holdings for Preliminary Plat Approval (Liberty Heights Estates of
Elk River), Public Hearing -Case No. P 06-03
Planning Commission Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 7
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occurredwith Bums Township, Anoka County, Sherburne County, Elk River and the
developers. He stated that the developers will provide the ability, but it is up to the
township and counties to interconnect. Right-of-way will be platted to the north end of the
plat, but the road will not be physically built. Mr. Holzem asked if the road would be cul-de-
saced. Mr. Maurer stated that a cul-de-sac will be put in if the road needs to be plowed due
to a driveway being there.
Mr. Holzem asked if it was possible to require larger lots. He expressed concern for the
drastic difference in lot sizes from this development and lotss in Anoka County. Mr. Maurer
stated that there are a number of instances within Elk River's corporate limits where smaller
sized urban lots back up to 2 1/z-acre lots. He stated that no major adjustments were made in
the lot sizes when these plats were approved. Mr. Holzem stated that he would like to see
larger lots, at least on the east-west end of the development. Mr. Maurer stated that having
larger lots does not necessarily make them better lots, and that some of the largest homes in
Elk River are located on some of the smallest lots.
Mr. Holzem stated that he is aware that his fence is not on his properly line. Mr. Maurer
stated that when development gets to this phase, the developer would likely work with him
to come to a solution.
Duane Hoff, 9643 Viking Boulevard -asked the City Engineer when Viking Boulevard
was changed to County Road 33. Mr. Maurer stated that it was changed approximately one
year ago. Mr. Hoeff stated that he lives in the northeast corner of Viking Boulevard and
County Road 13. He stated that he intended to develop his property in an "upscale" manor
and was concerned that the proposed homes along County Road 33 were not set back far
enough. Discussion followed regarding setbacks of other developments from County roads.
Mr. Maurer also explained future plans to connection Highway 169 to County Road 22, and
that someday this portion of County Road 33 will likely become a city street and the actual
County road will be further north, and the road north of this plat will become a dead end.
Mr. Hoeff asked if turn lanes will be required. Mr. Maurer referred to the memo from
?Sherburne County? which asks the developer to build designated turn lands and bypass
lanes off County Road 13 to County Highway 40.
Tim Waulters,19024 Baugh Street - stated he owns 40 acres adjacent to the south end of
the proposed project. He was concerned that there is no buffer zone between his property
and the proposed smaller lots. He stated he has farmed the property for 30 years and does
not intend to stop. He stated he was concerned that new residents will make complaints
about his operation. Mr. Barnhart stated that the City has the ability to include as
convenants for the property to require notification to potential residents that the
development is located adjacent to working farms.
Ron Bratlie, 18863 Dodge Street, representative for # 728 School District -Stated he
would like to state his support for the proposed development, which includes property for a
school, a park and fields.
Commissioner Offerman asked Mr. Bratlie how many students are anticipated to live in the
452 single family lots of this proposed development. Mr. Bratlie stated that the current
figure is .9 students per family unit. Commissioner Offerman asked what the capacity of the
new school to the south was. Mr. Bratlie stated the middle school will accommodate 1,000
6th _ 8th grade students. They would anticipate 750 students for the elementary school, but
that it would be built for 1,000. He noted that their present middle school exceeds 1,200
Planning Cotnmission Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 8
students. Mr. Offerman asked Mr. Bratlie if the School District has concerns about students
crossing the road between the two schools and park area. Mr. Bratlie stated yes, since it is
their intention to utilize the fields even before a school is built.
Chris Holzem, 19246 Baugh Street -stated that he also has an active farm that will abut
approximately 14 new homes. He stated that cattle are pastured in this area. He felt that
larger lots would provide a buffer to protect his farm.
Ross Abel, John Oliver & Associates -stated that Mr. Holzem's concern about his fence
could be addressed when that phase of the development is closer. He noted that the project
will be done in 7-8 phases, in about as many years. He also explained that with the 75-foot
setback from the County road, the homes along Viking Boulevard would have approximately
50 feet of rear yard area. He felt the buffer area and landscaping would provide significant
reduction in the view of the homes from the road.
Duane Hoff, 9643 Viking Boulevard -stated that the berms in the Trott Brook Farms
area are 8 feet high, and asked why only a 3-4 foot berm is being proposed here. Mr.
Barnhart stated that is the m;n;mtun requirement and that trees will also be planted. He
stated that staff would encourage the developer to enhance that area.
Commissioner Stevens stated that the developer is asking for utilities to be extended, and is
offering land for a school in exchange, which would already be filled by students from this
development. He felt the lots should be no smaller than 11,000 square feet. He expressed
concern with insufficient linking trails, lot sizes, and the loss of environmentally sensitive
area. He did not feel the Citywas receiving adequate compensation for allowing the
development and he could not support it.
Commissioner Offennan staetd he had significant concerns with the density, or that the
"exchanges" were enough. He also had concerns with wetland protection, the schools,
sidewalks, r,,;n;r„al tree preservation, and park dedication. He felt that more is needed
regarding parks. He stated he did not see the amenities. He was concerned that phasing was
proposed to begin to the south, where there are already major transportation concerns. He
did not feel the infrastructure or the schools were ready to handle this density of
development. He stated he would like to see the number of lots reduced, more green space,
more trails and that larger lots were not necessarily the answer. He stated he did not see
enough to support the project.
Mr. Maurer stated that the grading of the park will be done in the first phase. He explained
that the wetlands were degraded because of the farming, and that the developer will be
creating wetland credits for the City in the first phase.
Ross Abel stated that the City would be on line to receive a significant number of wetland
credits. He stated that the developer would turn over the wetland credits to the City in
exchange for the PUD zoning. He explained how the City would be able to use those
credits in a potential road project.
Commissioner Scott stated he concurred with Commissioners Stevens and Offetman. He
was concerned with the traffic and having only 3 viable exits from the development; two
onto County Highway 40 and 1 on Viking Boulevard. He also had concerns regarding the
density of the development being adjacent to 2 t/ acre lots. He stated he was not in favor of
the development as proposed.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 9
Mr. Barnhart asked the Commission if additional work is needed on the plat, such as density,
traffic, negotiation of benefits, or any other issues that staff could help address. He stated
that the developer would like a recommendation either for or against the project so that it
can move forward to the City Council. Mr. Barnhart also asked that the Planning
Commission advise staff if there was anything different they could do, before a plat reaches
this level.
Commissioner Offerman stated that he felt there were significant issues and he would
support working through them. Commissioner Stevens stated that the developer was aware
of their concerns at the workshop level regarding issues such as trails and traffic.
Commissioner Scott stated that during the Comprehensive Plan review, it was discussed
whether or not this parcel should be included in the Urban Service Area and it was decided
not to include it. Commissioner Westgaard stated he did not feel there was anything new,
and that they talked at great length about this issues and they are still tallying about them.
Commissioner Ropp stated that he also concurred with the other Commissioners concerns
regarding density, traffic, not enough benefits, lack of trails, and that there are just too many
homes proposed.
Commissioner Anderson stated that these are the same issues discussed during the
Comprehensive Plan review. He asked how there could be a transition between the Anoka
County/Burns Township residents with urban lots. He felt the density issue was similar to
the issues raised during the townhomes discussion and that the issues were the same -too
dense of development so far from the City's "core". He stated he understood that the
"carrot" of a new school and the wetland credits are significant. He stated he felt the same
as the residents who spoke and that he was not convinced that the property should be in the
Urban Service Area. He felt that the zoning should be closer to the Rld lot sizes and that
there should be as abrupt a change between this property and the Burns Township
properties. He stated he was also not in favor of the plan.
Chair Lemke stated that when this property was discussed during the Comprehensive Plan
update, they were in agreement it should not be in the Urban Service Area. He stated that
he was shocked when he first saw this plat and did not feel the lots should be so small and
also felt it was too dense. He stated that he did not necessarily feel the zoning of this city
should be controlled by another entity, and that this was not the case with the West Oaks
plat, which was adjacent to Big Lake Township.
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER STEVENS TO TABLE THE REQUESTS BY
EDWARD DULAK FOR A LAND USE AMENDMENT, REZONING,
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AND PRELIMINARY PLAT TO THE
DECEMBER PLANNING COMISSION MEETING.
Mr. Abel requested that the Planning Commission either recommend approval or denial of
their requests.
THE MOTION FAILED.
Commissioner Stevens stated that tabling the requests could allow some time to reconcile
with the developer and provide staff time to negotiate, while still allowing the developer to
move forward in the spring.
Commissioner Offerman stated he would be willing to work through the issues, but that he
felt it was best to recommend denial, if that is the wish of the developer.
Planning Commission Minutes Page l0
November 14, 2006
---------------------------
Chair Lemke stated that the developer will be free to negotiate with the City Council, since
they have already done so with staff and the Planning Commission.
Commissioner Anderson stated that the developer has already been through negotiations
with City staff and the school district, and that they do not want to take the plan back and
rework it. He stated that the question is, does the Planning Commission support the land
use request. He stated he was in favor of moving the request on to the City Council.
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER OFFERMAN AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER SCOTT TO RECOMMEND DENIAL OF THE REQUEST BY
ELK RIVER HOLDINGS FOR A LAND USE AMENDMENT TO CHANGE
THE LAND USE FROM RR RURAL RESIDENTIAL TO UR URBAN
RESIDENTIAL, CASE NO. LU 06-01 BASED ON THE FINDING THAT
SUFFICIENT REASON TO EXTEND THE URBAN SERVICE AREA
BOUNDARY HAS NOT BEEN PROVEN. MOTION CARRIED 6-1. Chair Lemke
opposed.
----------------
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER OFFERMAN AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER STEVENS TO RECOMMEND DENIAL OF THE REQUEST
BY ELK RIVER HOLDINGS FOR A ZONE CHANGE FROM R1A SINGLE
FAMILY RESIDENTIAL TO PUD PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT, BASED
ON THE FINDING THAT THE REQUEST IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND THE REQUEST IS EXCESSIVLY DENSE.
MOTION CARRIED 6-1. Chair Lemke opposed.
-----------------
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER STEVENS AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER ROPP TO RECOMMEND DENIAL OF THE REQUEST BY
ELK RIVER HOLDINGS FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A
RESIDENTIAL PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (LIBERTY HEIGHTS
ESTATES), CASE NO. CU 06-02, BASED ON THE FINDING THAT THE PUD
AS PRESENTED DID NOT MEET EXPECTATIONS. MOTION CARRIED 6-1.
Chair Lemke opposed.
---------------
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER OFFERMAN TO RECOMMEND DENIAL OF THE
REQUEST BY ELK RIVER HOLDINGS FOR PRELIMINARY PLAT
APPROVAL OF LIBERTY HEIGHTS ESTATES OF ELK RIVER, CASE NO. P
06-03, BASED ON THE FINDING THE PLAT IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE
CURRENT LAND USE AND ZONING. MOTION CARRIED 6-1. Chair Lemke
opposed.
5.10. Request by L & K RV (Lorin Stephenson) for Conditional Use Pe
and Classic Car Restoration, Public Hearine -Case No. CU 06-26
Ms. Cartney explained that the applicant, Lorin Stephenson of L & K RV, proposes to sell
10-12 travel trailers from his property at 15634 Edison Street. Mr. Stephenson cun-ently
repairs and refurbishes recreation vehicles and sells RV parts, and staff feels the small scale
sales is complementary to the current use. A Conditional Use Permit is required for outdoor
storage and selling of RV's.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 11
Ms. Cartney provided information regarding the business including the type of work done,
number of employees, hours of operations, screening of the site, parking requirements, the
requirement for building inspections and landscaping as detailed in the staff report dated
November 14, 2006. Staff recommends approval of the request with the six conditions
listed in the staff report.
Chair Lemke opened the public hearing. There being no public comment, Chair Lemke
closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Scott asked where the trees would be installed. Ms. Cartney provided
photographs of the site, stating that three trees would be required along Edison Street and
three along the storage area for the trailers.
Conunissioner Offerman stated that these trailers appear to be quite small. He asked what
would happen if the applicant decided to sell larger trailers. Ms. Cartney explained that
approval of the Conditional Use Permit would be for the travel trailers as described and
shown in the staff report, as provided by the applicant. Commissioner Offerman asked the
applicant what the maximum size of the trailers would be. Mr. Stephenson stated 40 feet
would be the maximum, but that he is proposing to sell trailers in the 13-30 foot range and
that sales would be concentrated on the smaller size trailers. Mr. Stephenson stated that he
would like to eventually have 12 - 15 trailers, with a maximum of 25 on the site. He felt that
twelve 13-foot trailers would not take up much room. Commissioner Westgaard suggested
that the applicant be required to define the storage area. Chair Lemke stated there maybe a
concern of having twelve 40-foot long trailers on the site. Commissioner Offerman
concurred there is quite a difference between the sizes. Mr. Barnhart stated that during the
staff review, he did not get a sense that the size of the trailers was a concern, but the
location. He suggested that rather than define an area, the Commission may want to define
the number and size of trailers allowed, such as no more than 25 feet, in order to be flexible
but still allow a means for staff to enforce the conditions. Mr. Barnhart felt that allowing 25
- 30 trailers in the rear yard would be appropriate for the site, but if the applicant wanted to
expand into the front yard, it would be necessary to amend the conditional use permit. Or,
the Commission could choose to allow unlimited storage of the trailers in the rear yard.
Commissioner Stevens stated that the size of the area could be defined by requiring the
trailers to be place on an improved surface with Class V. Mr. Barnhart noted that there is no
residential property between the businesses and Highway 10 that would be impacted.
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER OFFERMAN AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER SCOTT TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE REQUEST
BY L&K RV SALES FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW
OUTDOOR STORAGE AND SALES OF RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
TRAILERS, CASE NO. CU 06-26, WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. ALL APPLICABLE BULDING CODES SHALL BE MET.
2. ALL APPLICABLE FIRE CODES SHALL BE MET.
3. THE PARKING LOT SHALL HAVE DELINEATED 5 PARKING STALLS.
4. SIX LANDSCAPE TREES SHALL BE INSTALLED, 3 OVERSTORY TREES
IN FRONT AND 3 ON THE OUTDOOR STORAGE SIDE.
5. THE OUTDOOR STORAGE AREA SHALL BE CONSIST OF CLASS V
GRAVEL.
6. IF THE DISPLAY AREA IS MOVED FROM THE WESTERN PORTION OF
THE PROPERTY, IT MUST BE APPROVED BY CITY STAFF.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 14, 2006
MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
Page 12
5.11. Request by William Matthews for Conditional Use Permit for Used Auto Sales and Classic
Car Restoration, Public Hearing -Case No. CU 06-28
Mr. Barnhart stated that William Matthews has requested a Conditional Use Permit for the
sales of late model used cars, trucks and classic cars, as well as classic car restoration facility
at 13342 Highway 10. He provided background information regarding Mr. Williams'
previous business sites and location of the proposed facility. Mr. Barnhart reviewed issues
with the site regarding storm water, access, concerns regarding Hudson Street right-of-way
and future improvements on the adjacent lot with the construction of the YMCA. Mr.
Barnhart reviewed 16 staff's recommendations as listed in the staff report to the
Commission dated November 14, 2006.
Chair Lemke opened the public hearing.
William Matthews, applicant -stated he was present to answer any questions the
Commission may have.
There being no public comment, Chair Lemke closed the public hearing.
Chair Lemke asked if there was an existing Conditional Use Permit for this site. Mr.
Barnhart stated that no permit was found, but that if an new one is granted, the old one
would go away.
Commissioner Stevens questioned whether "secured storage" and "outdoor storage" were
the same thing. Mr. Barnhart stated his interpretation would be they are the same. Mr.
Matthews stated that he would like to have a secured area, but that he would be willing to
abide by the "no outdoor storage" condition. He stated it was not his intention to park cars
outside that were in need of repair. He stated that he was told a permit was not required for
a fence 6-feet in height or less. Mr. Barnhart stated that it was his opinion that fence would
be inconsistent with the conditional use permit, and if a fence were placed on the property,
and the conditional use permit would need to be amended. Chair Lemke asked if outdoor
storage was allowed in this area. Mr. Barnhart stated no. Chair Lemke asked the applicant
how large the secured area would be. Mr. Matthews stated that it would be large enough to
park a single 18-foot car trailer and a few cars overnight.
Commissioner Stevens stated that he is aware that sometimes cars need to be moved outside
while waiting for parts, such as Abra does.
Commissioner Offerman suggested that Condition # 12 be eliminated, since classic cars are
not normally driven on the road. Mr. Barnhart stated that the intent is not to allow old
vehicles in bad condition sitting around outside on the site. Commissioner Offerman stated
that the language could be changed to "road worthy". Mr. Barnhart agreed to recommend
that # 12 be removed.
Commissioner Stevens stated that he supported allowing a 6-foot fence for a secure area.
Commissioner Offerman stated he did not see a problem with cars being parked in a secure
area, but would not want to see parts stored in it. Mr. Barnhart stated he would be cautious
of allowing a fenced area, he suggested a condition could be added to allow "a secure storage
area," and clarify that "it is not outdoor storage, which is prohibited," and leave it up to the
City Council to decide.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 13
Commissioner Scott asked if fencing of employee parking would be considered outdoor
storage. Mr. Barnhart stated that if outdoor storage is prohibited and a fence is put up after
the approval, staff would interpret it as outdoor storage. The applicant could then seek a
determination from the Board of Adjustments.
Commissioner Anderson stated he would support leaving Condition #6 in, regarding no
outdoor storage allowed, and striking # 12. He stated that many businesses in the C3
District store items outside in a locked area, and all types of products could be stored there.
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER ANDERSON AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER WESTGAARD TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE
REQUEST BY WILLIAM MATTHEWS FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT,
CASE NO. CU 05-26, WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. ALL COMMENTS OF THE CITY ENGINEER SHALL BE ADDRESSED.
2. THE BUILDING SHALL MEET ALL APPLICABLE BUILDING CODES.
3. THE BUILDING SHALL MEET ALL APPLICABLE FIRE CODES.
4. ALL VEHICLES SHALL BE PARKED ON AN APPROVED SURFACE (NOT
LANDSCAPED AREAS) WITHIN THE PROPERTY PER SETBACK
REQUIREMENTS.
5. NO VEHICLES SHALL BE PARKED IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY OR
ON SIDEWALKS.
6. NO OUTDOOR STORAGE SHALL BE ALLOWED.
7. ALL VEHICLE MAINTENANCEAND/OR RESTORATION SHALL
OCCUR WITHIN THE BUILDING.
8. TREES SHALL BE PLANTED ON THE PROPERTY, AS INDICATED ON
STAFF EXHIBIT "A".
9. ALL SIGN PERMITS SHALL BE OBTAINED PRIOR TO ANY SIGNAGE
BEING INSTALLED.
10. ADVERTISING ON THE VEHICLES SHALL BE LIMITED TO ONE SIGN
PER VEHICLE NOT EXCEEDING 94 SQUARE INCHES.
11. NO SIGNAGEAND/OR DECORATIONS OF ANY TYPE, SUCH AS BUT
NOT LIMITED TO, BANNERS, PENNANTS, FESTOONS, PAINTED
WINDOWS AND BALLOONS SHALL BE ALLOWED ON THE VEHICLES.
12. ONE-WAY TRAFFIC INTERNAL TO THE SITE WILL NEED TO BE
SIGNED ACCORDINGLY.
13. THE REMAINDER OF THE ROOF AND BUILDING SHALL BE
PAINTED.
14. THE INTERIM USE PERMIT AT 13479 BUSINESS CENTER DRIVE
SHALL BE REVOKED SIX WEEKS AFTER A CERTIFICATE OF
OCCUPANCY IS ISSUED FOR THE SUBJECT PROPERTY.
15. SITE TURF SHALL BE ESTABLISHED WITH APPROPRIATE
IRRIGATION.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
6. Other Business
6.1. Update on October 16, 2006 City Council Meeting
Planning Commission Minutes Page 14
November 14, 2006
---------------------------
Commissioner Ropp provided an update on the October 16, 2006 City Council
meeting.
6.2. Update on Downtown Redevelopment Task Force
Commissioner Anderson provided an update on the November 6, 2006 meeting of
the Downtown Redevelopment Task Force.
7. Adjournment
There being no further business, COMMISSIONER ANDERSON MOVED TO
ADJOURN THE MEETING.
The meeting of the Elk River Planning Commission adjourned at 10:08 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
~ ;~~~~-
Debbie Huebner
Recording Secretary