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1997-01-28 Planning Comm MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 28, 1997 The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Planning Commission was held on Tuesday, January 28, 1997, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Victoria curve. The meeting was called to order at 7:31 p.m. The following members were present: Dwyer, Koll, Friel, Betlej, Lorberbaum, Duggan and Tilsen. Also present were Public Works Director Jim Danielson, Planning Consultant Meg McMonigal, Administrative Assistant Patrick Hollister and Senior Secretary Kim Blaeser. F-112:1041FI-111 4W MLTJI 1011 Commissioner Betlej moved to approve the November 26, 1996 minutes with corrections. Commissioner Tilsen seconded the motion. AYES: 7 NAYS: 0 CASE NO. 97-01: BUROW - VARIANCE Ms. Lynn Burow, of 1219 Victoria Curve, was present to discuss her request for two variances to erect a fence in her front and side yards. Ms. Burow explained that her property abuts MnDOT right-of-way and that she is proposing to put a 42 inch high fence approximately six feet into the right-of-way. Ms. Burow explained that her property is located at the corner of Glen Hill Road and Victoria Curve. She stated that a portion of her property was taken by MnDOT for the frontage road which left a steep slope in the front and south side yards as well as leaving an unusual configuration for the front lot line. Ms. Burow stated that she would like to place the fence along the top of the slope which would encroach approximately 6 feet into the MnDOT right -of - i way on the Glen Hill Road or front side of the property. She informed the Commission that MnDOT has indicated that they would allow the fence subject to City approval. Ms. Burow stated that she is requesting a 42 inch high fence to help contain her large dog. Commissioner Koll inquired about the type of fencing material. Ms. Burow responded that the fence will be galvanized chain link with the posts staggered 8 or 10 feet. Commissioner Koll noted her concern for how visible the fence will be. Ms. Burow stated that MnDOT is planning to install bushes and sumac this spring. She stated that she would like to grow vines on the fence. Commissioner Koll informed Ms. Burow that it would be a good idea to landscape this area since it is viewed by everyone driving in the area. Ms. Burow submitted a copy of MnDOT's landscape plan to the Commission and staff. Commissioner Koll inquired about evergreen and birch trees in the area. Ms. Burow stated that these trees are not located on her property. Commissioner Koll inquired if there are plans to construct a dog house. Ms. Burow responded no. Commissioner Duggan noted his concern for how visible the fence will be and inquired if Ms. Burow has thought about installing a black, vinyl clad fence. Ms. Burow stated that that type of fencing is too expensive. Commissioner Duggan inquired about the location of plantings on the slope. He stated that growth time should be considered. Ms. Burow stated that MnDOT has indicated that the plantings will be installed at the top of the slope. She stated that she will wait to plant her plantings until MnDOT has completed their landscape project. Commissioner Duggan inquired about trees located on the western edge of Ms. Burow's property. Ms. Burow stated that the trees will be inside the fence. Commissioner Tilsen inquired about the signatures of consent. It was determined that all signatures had been received. The Commission waived the public hearing requirement. Commissioner Lorberbaum informed Ms. Burow that she is not a "fan" of fences and she noted her concern for the visibility of the fence. She stated that she believes that Ms. Burow has proven a hardship. 2 Commissioner Friel moved to recommend that the City Council approve a variance allowing a fence to be constructed 6 feet into a public right-of- way and a variance allowing a 42 inch high fence in a front yard. Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion. AYES: 7 NAYS: 0 Public Works Director Jim Danielson briefed the Planning Commission on recent City Council action on previous planning cases. MISCELLANEOUS The following Planning Commissioners confirmed their attendance at the February 1, 1997 Joint City Council/Planning Commission workshop: Mike Dwyer, Daniel Tilsen, Bernie Friel, Joe Betlej, Sally Lorberbaum and Ultan Duggan. Commissioner Friel updated the Commission regarding recent discussions with City of Eagan officials, Mayor Mertensotto and City Administrator Batchelder on amending the 1995 Metropolitan Land Planning Act. 1611fiffiNMAM There being no further business, the Planning Commission adjourned its meeting at 7:58 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Kimberlee K. Blaeser Senior Secretary K