2006-11-09 Friday NewsVISITATION TRAFFIC
During rush hours in the morning and in the afternoon at Mendota Heights Road and Dodd Road, the traffic is bad.
Cars bringing kids to St. Thomas Academy (700 kids) and Visitation, combined with normal traffic is causing tie-
ups and accidents. Because of this, Visitation School recently wrote the Mayor and asked for the City's help to solve
the problem. The Police Chief, the City Engineer and I met with Sister Mary Dennis, Dick Davern and Dawn
Nichols, Head of School at Visitation on Wednesday of this week to determine a course of action to address the
problem. We brainstormed many possible solutions to the situation, but everyone liked the idea of possibly
installing a round -about at Lake Drive and Mendota Heights Road as the best solution. In this solution, all the traffic
exiting Visitation School during rush hour would be required to "turn right to go left". You would turn right from
Visitation Drive onto Mendota Heights Road and then go through the round -about at Lake Drive to head back
towards Dodd Road.
We all also felt that, because Dodd Road is a State Highway, MnDOT needs to be involved in solving the problem,
and because St. Thomas Academy's students also use Mendota Heights Road, they need to be involved in arriving at
a solution. Sue will invite MnDOT and Dick Davern will invite St. Thomas Academy to a future meeting to be
scheduled within the next two weeks.
ELECTION NEWS
Congratulations to Mayor Huber and Councilmembers Duggan and Schneeman who had landslide victories in
Tuesday's City Election. As is the norm, Mendota Heights voters turned out in higher than statewide average
numbers. Before factoring in new registrations, the voter turnout percentage for Mendota Heights was 82.90%
(76.73% after factoring in new registrations). Early information indicates that statewide average was about
63%. With the exception of a minor machine malfunction that was resolved early in the day and a major
malfunction in one of the new AutoMark units, there were no serious problems throughout the day.
Representatives of the Secretary of State's Office visited several precincts in the state throughout the day to
observe polling place activities and to determine whether all laws/rules were being enforced, and that there was
appropriate handicapped accessibility and assistance for the new AutoMarks. Mendota Heights precinct 4 (St.
Paul's Methodist Church) received a visit from an SOS staff member who told our judges after his review that
everything was done correctly and theirs was the best precinct he had seen.
Thanks to the fifty-six outstanding individuals who served as election judges on Tuesday, especially to the
Chairpersons, Wade West, Debbie Goldberger, Kathie Woods, Pam Ehrlich and Marsha Knuth, who ensured
that all laws were followed and that their polling places ran smoothly. Thanks also to the city staff members
who worked so hard on election day and preparing the polling places the day before: Pam Deeb, Sharon Hinze,
Sam Kuchinka, Guy Kullander, Tom Olund, Ryan Ruzek, Linda Shipton and Sandie Thone. Very special
thanks to Nancy Bauer, who did a superlative job both throughout the day and for weeks preparing for the
election, and to Becky Pentel, our outstanding energizer bunny who never seemed to wear out on election day
or the two weeks she helped us prepare for it. Without all of these very special people there could not have
been such a successful and well organized election process.
LILYDALE UPDATE
At this week's City Council meeting, Council Member Ultan Duggan informed everyone that Lilydale had been
sued to complete an EAW on their ONE RIVERFRONT VIEW project (formerly the Lilydale Tennis Club
site). I called Bernie Weitzman, Lilydale City Council to get the details: Bernie informed me that Barb Lowe a
West St. Paul resident and former tennis club member had brought the suit, and that Judge Sovis had found in
her favor on a Summary Judgment. Bernie said that Lilydale will not appeal the decision, but will complete the
EAW. He said that final approval of the plans will be on the Planning Commission and City Council's agendas
for their November 20a' meeting (plans attached). Lilydale will then take no further action on the project until
the EAW is completed.
ROLF PROPERTY
Since the moratorium on subdivisions has ended, staff has received several inquiries regarding the Rolf Property
at 1860 Lexington. Mrs. Rolf has even contacted me about help in finding senior housing for her in Mendota
Heights. No proposals have been brought forward yet; staff will work with interested parties to ensure any
plans coming forward meet Mendota Heights' standards
CITY HALL CLOSED — VETERANS' DAY
Just a reminder that City Hall will be closed this Friday in observance of Veterans' Day.
Respectfully submitted,
Jim Danielson
City Administrator
Attachments: Pipeline, Park & Recreation Commission Agenda, Pre -Application Meeting Synopsis, 2006 City
Election Results, Letter to Fire Chief Maczko from South St. Paul Fire Chief Harry Rund, Twincities.com Article
"Voters reject levies in three school districts", Lilydale Development Application for "One Riverfront" project.
L E I T E R
Public Works
Engineerincl
Code Enforcement
Public Works
ism
November 9, 2006
The Parks Crew cut grass in the parks and mulched leaves. Forms for
concrete the concrete pad were poured for the new bench on Marie
Avenue. Shrubs were trimmed and leaves were clean up around all
parks signs. Shrubs were also trimmed at the shop.
Rich checked all lift stations daily. Roots were cut on the 600 block of
Callahan. Two manholes were raised on Victoria.
The Street Crew disposed of a dead deer and possum on Marie Avenue
by 35E. Marker posts were put in for the winter to mark trouble catch
basins. Patching was done on Knollwood Lane, Sylvandale Road,
Hampshire Drive, Copperfield Drive, Quail Ridge Circle, Bent Tree
Lane, and Huber Drive.
Engineering
The JES Slope remediation project was awarded to Veit & Company at
the City Council meeting on Tuesday night. The preconstruction
meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 14t"
On Thursday, Sue attended the first of the Capitol Gateway Technical
Advisory Committee for the transit feasibility study in the Robert
Street Corridor.
The concrete sidewalks were completed on Delaware Avenue. Next
week the boulevards will be sodded, weather permitting.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
AGENDA
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
6:30pm Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Council Chambers
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. October 10th Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes
4. Recreation Programmer's Report
5. Valley Park Tennis Court Open House
(Attached: copy of hearing notice, resident correspondence)
6. Ivy Hill Park — Playground Replacement
7. Parks Five Year (2005 thru 2009) Capital Improvement Plan
(Attached: Parks fiver year 2005 thru 2009 Capital Improvement Plan)
8. Par 3 Update - verbal
9. Other Comments
Auxilary aids for persons with disabilities are available upon request at least 120 hours in
advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make
every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please
contact City Administrator at (651) 452-1850.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
MEMO
November 2, 2006
TO: City Council, Commission Members, and City Administ ato
FROM: Jake Sedlacek, Assistant to the City Administrat `1
SUBJECT: Pre -Application Meeting Synopsis
Staff met with a potential applicant on Tuesday, November 2, 2006. Jim Danielson and Jake
Sedlacek were present.
Le Cordon Bleu, 1315 Mendota Heights Road
Kevin Sanderson, President of Le Cordon Bleu and Bill Wolters of Constructive Ideas came in to
discuss potential changes at Le Cordon Bleu. While original plans for the school included a
restaurant and full-service bar, construction was planned in phases. A restaurant, The Minnesota
Room, was constructed at Brown College and is currently operated at that location.
The school is now at the point where they would like to bring the restaurant from it's current
location at Brown College to the Le Cordon Bleu building. The applicants wanted to discuss
potential concerns the city may have regarding building use, limitations/requirements for hours
of operation, restaurant size, and the transfer of the liquor license.
The Special Use Permit allowed for many future activities — staff reported to the applicants that
they would review the Special Use Permit to see following the conversation to determine if
amendments may be necessary.
Other plans that Le Cordon Bleu would like to consider include potential signage, changes to an
entrance and a possible outdoor seating area. Staff informed Mr. Sanderson that any exterior
changes would be subject to the city's regular processes for planning and/or building permit
approvals.
Mr. Sanderson stated that the school is looking to come forward with plans in early 2007, with a
targeted opening date of June or July 2007. Le Cordon Bleu intends to work closely with staff to
make sure that all of the City's concerns are met.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
2006 CITY ELECTION RESULTS
Precinct 1 Precinct 2 Precinct 3 Precinct 4 Precinct 5 Total
Councilmember
Duggan
Precinct 1
Precinct 2
Precinct 3
Precinct 4
Precinct 5
Total
Mayor
1,138
886
630
885
882
4,421
Huber
1,369
987
740
1,057
1,089
5,242
Write -In
21
20
15
16
28
100
Overvotes
0
0
0
0
0
0
Blank Voted
370
331
211
284
277
1,473
Defective
0
0
0
0
0
0
Total
1,760
1,338
966
1,357
1,394
6,815
Precinct 1 Precinct 2 Precinct 3 Precinct 4 Precinct 5 Total
Councilmember
Duggan
1,001
734
577
880
824
4,016
Schneeman
1,138
886
630
885
882
4,421
Write -In
32
18
18
27
29
124
Overvotes
0
0
0
0
0
0
Undervotes
653
426
325
348
479
2,231
Blank
348
306
191
287
287
1,419
Defective
0
0
0
0
Total
3,172
2,370
1,741
2,427
2,501
12,211
2006 GENERAL ELECTION STATISTICS
Precinct 1 Precinct 2 Precinct 3 Precinct 4 Precinct 5 Total
7:00 a.m. Registrations
2,072
1,559
1,332
1,596
1,662
8,221
Elect. Day Registrations
140
137
113
1_35
136
661
Total Registration
2,212
1,696
1,445
1,731
1,798
8,882
Ballots Cast Per Precinct
1,760
1,338
966
1,357
1,394
6,815
%Voter Turn -out
7:00 a.m. Registration
84.94%
85.82%
72.52%
85.03%
83.87%
82.90%
Voter Turn -out after
including Election Day reg.
79.57%
78.89%
66.85%
78.39%
77.53%
76.73%
Spoiled Ballots
0
October 17,, 2006
Fire Chief John Maczko
Mendota Heights Fire Department
2121 Dodd Road
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
Dear Chief:
October 11, 2006 was a day that will long be remembered by the residents of
South St. Paul.
The Fire at 275 Bridgepoint Drive quickly overwhelmed the cities resources.
The assistance we received from your fire department was needed and greatly
appreciated.
The dedication and bravery displayed by your firefighters; is a source of pride in
our profession.
Thank you for helping us achieve a safe operation and avoid a potential disaster,
Harry F. Rund, Fire Chief
City of South St. Paul
310 Marie Avenue South 5t, Paul, MN 55075 6 (651) 554-3250 Fax (651) 554-3251
Printed on Recycled Paper, 30% Foot -Consumer
Voters reject levies in three school districts
Posted on Wed, Nov. 08, 2006
Voters reject levies in three school districts
Y BAO ONG
Pioneer Press
Page 1 of 2
Three Dakota County school districts brought levy referendum proposals to their voters this year, and all three failed.
In a seemingly growing trend, three districts — Burnsville -Eagan -Savage, Lakeville and West St. Paul -Mendota Heights -
Eagan — joined nearly 70 of 341 school districts in the state to ask for more taxpayer dollars, according to the Minnesota
School Boards Association estimates.
Some district levies expire next year, while others put forth proposals as a preventive measure.
The districts attempted to rally support for the proposals by telling voters that schools need extra dollars to maintain
services for students.
BURNSVILLE- EAGAN-SAVAGE
Fifty-five percent of voters in the Burnsville -Eagan -Savage School District voted against the levy.
The district decided to tap its budget reserves instead of proposing a levy, when in 2005 the Legislature gave districts
more flexibility to fund schools with property tax dollars.
An additional $6 million would have been available to the district for operating costs in the next 10 years.
The district has made about $18.6 million in budget reductions in the past decade. Now the reserved fund balance is
near depletion.
The district is determined to avoid going into statutory operating debt, and that means cutting programs and staff to
balance the budget, said district business manager Mark D. Stotts.
LAKEVILLE
Voters in the Lakeville School District faced not one but three separate levy referendum questions.
All three were rejected.
Two levies, passed in 2000 and 2003, will expire next year. The first two proposals asked for an increase in the general
education revenue of $500 per pupil and the renewal of the two levies. The third question would have brought in
$750,000 to update the district's technology systems.
"We take our direction from our community," said Superintendent Gary Amoroso.
Depending on state funding, the district will have to balance its budget by $5 million to $7 million for the next school
year, Amoroso said. The School Board will begin that discussion soon, which could result in programming and staffing
cuts throughout the district.
WEST ST. PAUL-MENDOTA HEIGHTS-EAGAN
Less than six months into his first year on the job, West St. Paul -Mendota Heights -Eagan Superintendent Jay Haugen
pursued a levy referendum he deemed necessary.
http://www.twincities. com/mldltwincitieslnews/local/stateslminnesotalcountiesldakotal159... 11/9/2006
Voters reject levies in three school districts Page 2 of 2
Voters disagreed. Fifty-eight percent of votes went against the proposal.
Haugen and the school board decided the district should take a proactive step to increase school funding by revoking the
current levy. The levy would have given the district an additional $2.1 million, which would be used for STEM (science,
technology, engineering and mathematics) and early -childhood education initiatives. The state -authorized maximum of
$1,081.09 per pupil would have been granted with voter approval.
"It's disappointing on one hand, but we'll put our best foot forward," Haugen said. "We still have to educate every child."
Voters approved a $56.2 million bond issue two years ago so the district could renovate schools throughout the district.
Still, Carl Colmark, district director of business services, said, "we're spending more money than we're taking in right
now."
SCHOOL BOARDS
Three school board races took place in four Dakota County school districts yesterday. Many candidates ran their
campaigns based on fiscal accountability, maintaining and improving high quality curricula, and preparing students for
the future.
The most competitive race for Dakota County school districts was in Burnsville -Eagan -Savage. Six candidates vied for
four open seats. The winners were Gail Morrison, Dan Luth, Susan Martin and Nancy N. Banyard. Morrison and Luth are
incumbents.
Less competitive was the Lakeville School Board race. Roz Peterson will join incumbents Jim Skelly and Michelle Volk on
the board.
In South St. Paul, only the at -large and Ward 3 seats were contested. The winners were Wendy Felton and Shelly D.
Forester, respectively. Deborah M. Clark and Bruce Hagerty won Wards 1 and 2, respectively, in unopposed races.
The candidates running for the Farmington School District School Board were also uncontested. Three seats will be filled
by Bob Heman, John Kampf and incumbent Terry Donnelly.
Bao Ong can be reached at or 651-228-5435.
R....,. _._.
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MENDOTAHOMES INC.
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION
Final Planned Unit Development, Rezoning, Plat
Date: August 14, 2006
Property Address: 949 Sibley Memorial Highway, Lilydale, MN
Property Owner: Lilydale Commons, LLC
Developer: Mendota Homes, Inc.
John Mathern, Erin Mathern, Michael Jordan
2860 Middle Street, Little Canada, MN 55117
Ph: 651-604-0967 Fax: 651-604-0972
emathem@mendotahomes.com
Mendota Homes, Inc. proposes development of a four-story, 91 -unit condominium
building at 949 Sibley Memorial Highway in Lilydale. On May 31, 2006, the Lilydale
City Council approved a Planned Unit Development Concept Plan for the proposed
development. Mendota Homes, Inc. now requests approval of the Final Planned Unit
Development Plan for the property, rezoning to PUD, and plat / subdivision approval.
Final Development Plan — Rezoning (Lilvdale City Code Sect. 904.07, Subd. 2(6))
a. Legal descriptions of all parcels to be rezoned — please see attached proposed plat.
b. Zoning classifications:
The site consists of approximately 10 acres, including a non-contiguous parcel located
along the Mississippi River to the north of the main development site. The site has two
zoning classifications. The developed area, consisting of a tennis and fitness club
building, brick office building and parking area, comprises approximately five acres and
is presently zoned Bl General Business. The undeveloped portion of the site, including
the sloped areas and areas below the bluff line, is presently zoned Open Space. The
Comprehensive Plan guides the developed portion of the site for Mixed Use and the
undeveloped portion for Open Space. We request rezoning of the presently developed
portion of the site from B-1 General Business to Planned Unit Development. The zoning
for the Open Space area shall remain unchanged.
c. Detailed site plan:
Overview: The property is bordered by Sibley Memorial Highway (Highway 1 ) to the
south, Interstate 35E to the west, Dakota County Regional Trail, Chicago, Milwaukee, St.
Paul and Pacific Railway tracks, and the Mississippi River to the north, and Lilydale
Road to the east. In addition, the property surrounds property owned and operated by the
Lilydale Garden Center. Beyond the immediate area, a new mixed-use development lies
west of 35E in Lilydale, commercial uses lie to the east in Lilydale, and public land and
utilities exist across Highway 13 in Mendota Heights.
In its current condition, the developed area of the property is located in the southwest
corner of the overall site and was used as a tennis and fitness club. Vehicle access is
from a single curb -cut on Highway 13. A large, three-story concrete building and
smaller, one-story brick building are located on the developed portion of the site. With
the exception of perimeter decorative landscaping, the remainder of the developed area is
paved for driveway and parking purposes. The developed area of the site is primarily flat
with a slight elevation drop from south to north. The undeveloped portion of the site is to
the north and east of the developed portion and is characterized by steep slopes and
intensive tree cover. A portion of the Dakota County trail system enjoys an easement
along the north boundary of the site and a County -owned parking lot exists by easement
on the property on the northeast side along Lilydale Road. Interstate Valley Creek
meanders through the property at the east side along Lilydale Road. Additionally, a non-
contiguous parcel of land, lying next to the Mississippi River, is separated from the main
development parcel by railroad tracks. The site generally benefits from close access to
major freeways, proximity to downtown St. Paul, and views of the Mississippi River.
The proposed re -development of the property includes construction of a four-story, 91 -
unit condominium building on the currently developed portion of the property. The
original Planned Unit Development Concept Plan included 89 units. The overall size of
the proposed building remains the same — the individual floorplans were modified to
create 91, instead of 89, units. The proposed building is roughly "U" shaped, with three
distinct segments. Since the Planned Unit Development Concept Plan submittal, we have
shifted the building east to allow a wider emergency access road and more opportunity
for planting and screening along the property boundary with I -35E. Vehicle access will
be from an existing curb cut at Highway 13. An additional curb cut is proposed for a
semi -pervious roadway, providing emergency access to the west side of the building and
access to utility services at the northwest corner of the site. The Lilydale Garden Center
currently uses the same driveway access as the property without any official right to do
so. Lilydale Commons, LLC will grant an access easement to the Lilydale Garden Center
for their continued use of the new driveway. The proposed easement is attached to this
application and will be recorded concurrent with the final plat for the development.
The indoor common areas for the building will include a pool, workout facilities, meeting
rooms, community rooms, a guest suite, recreation area, and a clubhouse located in the
two-story section of the building. This area will also function as the main pedestrian
entrance to the building. Two levels of heated, underground parking will provide two
underground parking spaces for each condominium unit, plus storage. Access to the
underground parking will occur at the east and south ends of the building. Twenty-four
surface parking spaces will fulfill guest parking needs. Individual condominium units
will initially range in size from 1120 to 2400 square feet and offer premium interior
finishes and flexibility in size and floor planning.
Architecturally, the proposed building is designed to complement and enhance the site.
The fourth story of the building will be stepped back approximately seven feet from the
2
outside walls of the first, second, and third stories, softening the overall building height
and adding architectural interest. Proposed exterior materials include limestone, glass,
cement -based stucco, and natural metals, designed to complement the natural features of
the site and provide views of the surroundings from each condominium home. Private
outdoor spaces will be included with each condominium and will be visible from the
exterior, providing relief and dimension to the exterior facade. The proposed exterior
materials, the use of glass along balcony walls, and the inclusion of a parapet wall 'along
the fourth floor of the building will help to mitigate sound transfer from Interstate 35E.
The site plan for this development was conceived with the natural features of the site in
mind. The Lilydale PUD process allows a maximum building height of 50 feet, provided
the building is set back a minimum of 40 feet from the bluff line and other aesthetic and
environmental criteria are met. As the attached plans demonstrate, the proposed 50 -foot
tall building has a minimum setback from the bluff line of 47 feet. As the building
extends from east to west along the bluff line, it will be set back between 47 and 65 feet.
The section of the proposed building containing the community spaces is situated at,
perhaps, the most visible location on the site. To mitigate the visual impact of the
building, the community area has been reduced to two stories in height, with an arching
roof canopy extending to approximately 33 feet, and set back from the bluff line
approximately 131 feet. In addition to setback dimensions, the fourth story of the
building will be stepped back seven feet from the outside walls of the first, second, and
third stories, softening the overall building height and adding architectural interest. This
means that the majority of the structure will be 37 feet tall, with only the top level
extending to 50 feet. On the west side of the site, building setbacks have been increased
from the Concept Plan to 63 feet to allow larger planting areas between the building and
I -35E.
An Open Space Plan, Landscape Restoration Plan, and Planting Plans are attached.
Overall, the bluff area.of the property is in good, stable condition, with limited areas of
debris and erosion and the general presence of invasive plant species typical of an urban
bluff area. The Landscape Restoration Plan addresses the most eroded or compromised
areas of the bluff and prescribes removal of debris and hazardous vegetation and
restoration of native species. These measures will further stabilize the bluff, restore areas
to be disturbed by installation of stormwater management systems, and provide aesthetic
improvement along the Dakota County Regional Trail and the top of the bluff near the
proposed building. Floodplain renovation and restoration of the Interstate Valley Creek
will be undertaken in conjunction with MNDOT. The Open Space Plan includes public
access to the site in two areas. The Planting Plan focuses on native species and screening
and buffering measures along the bluff and along I -35E.
The property presently employs no stormwater management tactics, resulting in
uncontrolled flows of water off the buildings and the site. Rain gardens and storm water
treatment measures will be installed as part of a comprehensive stormwater management
strategy for the proposed development. In addition, the overall amount of impervious
surface will be reduced by more than 40 percent. Both the quality and quantity of
stormwater will be improved significantly by the proposed development. Specific
3
stormwater management measures and calculations are included in the Final Submittal
documents.
Site Plan Contents (Lilydale City Code Sect. 903.16, Subd. 3(B)}
1. Location of property: Please see description above and attachments, generally.
2. Owners / developers: Please see heading above.
3. Existing topography: Please see Final Submittal documents C -SII, C -G1, C-
ERCL
4. Existing drainage of water: The property is presently more than 80 percent
impervious with unrestrained sheet flows in several directions.
5. Description of soils on the site: Please see Final Submittal document C-SIl.
6. Description of flora and fauna / presence of threatened species:
Please see attached Forester's Report. Additionally, project environmental
consultants, Pinnacle Engineering, consulted the DNR regarding endangered or
threatened species on or near the property. The following is an excerpt from their
report dated April 17, 2006,
Fish. Wildlife. and Ecoloaically Sensitive Resources
The DI\'R Natural heritage and Nongame Research Program was contacted to
determine the likelihood of federal and state listed endangered, threatened, or
special concern species, as well as, rare or sensitive natural communities at or near
the site that may potentially be affected by the proposed project. The results of the
DNR's database search (Reference # ERDB 20060714) yielded 15 known
occurrences of rare species or communities within a one -mile radius of the site. The
DNR database search is included with this submittal. The identified resources
included: Blanding's turtle (2), Monkeyface mussel (2), Butterfly mussel, Fellow
sandshell mussel, EbonyshelI mussel, Wartyback mussel, Mucket mussel, Rock
pocketbook mussel, Spike mussel, Hickorynut mussel, Pugnose shiner, floodplain
forest -Silver maple subtype, and mussel sampling site 9143.
None of the identified resources were identified as being present at the site. All of
the resources on the DNR database were documented within the Lilydale-Harriet
Island Regional Park, Fort Snelling State Park, hidden Falls -Crosby Regional Park
and the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. The identified sensitive
resources are confined to the riverbed, shoreline, and floodplain in the off-site
locales noted above. Development at the site will be restricted with a 40 -foot setback
from the bluff line. The setback and bluffs will be zoned open space and designated
as permanent natural areas.
7. Description of historic, cultural, archeological significance: All existing
buildings and improvements date from the 1970's. There exist no improvements
or conditions of historic, cultural, or archeological significance.
8. Proposed finished grading: Please see attached Final Submittal document C -
G1.
9. Landscaping plan: Please see attached Final Submittal documents Ll, L2, and
L3.
10. Proposed drainage plan: Please see attached Final Submittal document C -G1.
19
11. Erosion and sedimentation control plan: Please see attached Final Submittal
document C -ERC I.
12. Proposed dimensions, alignment, height, use of structures: Please see
overview above and reference attached Final Submittal documents A010 — A400.
13. Delineation of paved / surfaced areas: Please see attached Final Submittal
documents generally for location and C -GI specifically for materials.
14. Method of access, public access and views, impact on existing views:
Method of access: The proposed development will gain access from the existing
curb cut on Highway 13. An additional curb cut will be added to the west of the
existing curb cut for emergency access and utility maintenance.
Public access and views: Public trail access points will be located at the base of
the bluff, along the existing Dakota County Trail system and at the southwest
corner of the site, at the intersection of Highway 13 and 1-3 5E. At the base of the
bluff, a four -foot wide, cleared trail will allow bluff access from the public trail
system, enhancing the walking or hiking experience for the public. At the
southwest corner of the property, near the intersection of I -35E and Highway 13,
a trail connection for pedestrians and bikes will be added. This connection will
improve trail conditions at this very busy intersection. Presently, trail users in
Lilydale must cross Highway 13 to Mendota Heights to access the trail along the
I -35E bridge. The proposed plan will allow trail users in Lilydale access to the I -
35E bridge trail from the development site, eliminating the need for pedestrians
and bicyclists to cross Highway 13.
Impact on existing views: Project environmental consultants, Pinnacle
Engineering, in conjunction with project architects, Collaborative Design Group,
prepared the following description of view impacts for the development:
Visual impact of the project on the surrounding area has been analyzed and taken
into account for the project. The building that currently occupies the site is non-
descript and does not relate well to its context. Much of the site is covered with
asphalt and promotes runoff leading to sloughing and erosion of the bluff
The proposed project uses strategies to minimize its impact on the surrounding
area including visual impacts. Some strategies include:
A landscape design that uses native vegetation and design features that help screen
and soften the overall site.
Meeting or exceeding building setback and height requirements set forth by state
and local agencies.
Using architectural features to create an animated building form that will not
present itself as imposing or flat -faced. Part of this is achieved by introducing
reliefs and projections on building facades. It is also evident in the way that the
top floor is set back an average of 7 feet from the face of the lower floors. This
helps give the building an appearance of being shorter and visually digestible. In
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addition, roof lines are broken by varying the parapet heights leading to a softer
appearance when seen.
The use of building materials that is harmonious to the surroundings. Materials
include, but are not limited to, limestone, copper (or some other naturally
weathering metal), stucco, wood and stone pavers. Color selection will be
compatible to the environment.
Views and site lines to the property are expected to remain unchanged for the most
part. In some cases an improvement is made through the addition of plantings and
native vegetation.
Pedestrians using the regional trail that runs along the base of the bluff will be able
to see perhaps only glimpses of the building through the existing trees and
vegetation. There are no plans to disturb these trees. More apparent to trail users
is the Xcel Energy transmission tower. (See attached diagrams).
When viewed from the opposite river bank, one can expect to see only the top two
stories of the building revealed from behind the tree tops. When full of foliage, the
trees create an almost opaque screen. There is a noticeable difference between the
site described here and the development to the south. There seems to be fewer trees
and vegetation able to screen the structures on that site making them more
noticeable.
Motorists traveling along Interstate 35E will see the building emerge as they come
from St. Paul to the north and Mendota Heights to the south. Admittedly, the
proposed building will be closer to the freeway than the current one. But, landscape
features including trees along the hill crest will help screen and lessen its impact.
The proposed project should not pose any greater visual or environmental impact
than what is already on the site. In fact, it is anticipated that it will enhance the site
through its architectural form, use of materials, and pleasing aesthetics. As stated
earlier, the current Lilydale Tennis and Health Club is a non-descript concrete
block building that does not take advantage of its surroundings and in many ways
detracts from it.
15. Parking facilities: The proposed development includes two levels of heated,
underground parking, including 184 spaces, and 24 surface parking spaces.
16. Areas to be dedicated for public use: The attached Open Space Plan provides
a five percent land dedication of usable open space. In addition to the land,
the improvements specified, including a trail connection at the southwest corner
of the property and a new bluff access area from the trail at the base of the bluff,
will be added as part of the proposed development. The following Open Space /
Park Dedication plan is proposed:
- Lilydale Commons, LLC shall dedicate to the City of Lilydale, by easement or
fee ownership, the areas noted as Dedicated Parkland on the attached Open Space
Plan. This includes dedication of the property to be known as Outlot A, which
includes 14,500 square feet of riverfront property for future improvement.
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- Lilydale Commons, LLC shall provide the improvements described for the
Dedicated Parkland areas, including installation of trails and paths in noted areas
and installation of the concrete stair system noted near the trail connection at the
southwest corner of the property.
- Lilydale Commons, LLC shall undertake the restoration efforts outlined in the
attached Landscape Restoration Plan.
- Lilydale Commons, LLC, with the consent of the City of Lilydale, shall transfer
ownership of the property presently used by easement as Dakota County Regional
Trail, located at the base of the bluff, to the City of Lilydale.
17. Location and amounts of excavated soil: Please see attached civil
engineering plans generally.
18. Measures to address adverse environmental effects of the development: The
stormwater management details, erosion control during construction, bluff
restoration and improvements, and design and materials of the proposed building
will all result in a development much improved over current conditions.
Additionally, details of the effects of the development on surrounding property
and the environment were submitted at the Concept Plan stage of the development
process.
d. Covenants and restrictions: The Declaration for the new Common Interest
Community, One Riverfront View, is attached. Section 9 provides for association
maintenance of all common areas and the stormwater system specifically.
e. Density and gross building computations: Please see attached Final Submittal
document A000.
f. Preliminary architectural drawings: Please see attached Final Submittal documents
A010 — A400.
g. Landscape plan: Please see attached Final Submittal document L3.
h. Construction occupancy schedule: Demolition of the existing structures has begun
and will continue through September, 2006. Pending final approval, site work and
construction are scheduled to begin in October, 2006. Final occupancy is anticipated in
May, 2008.
i. Non-residential development: The proposed development is exclusively residential.
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Additional application items not previously addressed (Lilydale Citv Code Sect.
901.05)
Sanitary Sewer. Sanitary sewer service presently exists to the site. The new building
will utilize the existing connection, located on the west side of the site, along 35E. This
connection runs to an existing lift station at the bottom of the bluff along the trail area.
Water Supply. Existing water service for the site is from two on-site wells — one for
each existing building. The proposed development plan includes extension of an existing
water main from the south along the northbound off -ramp of 35E. The line will be bored
under Highway 13 and connect to the site at the south side. St. Paul Regional Water will
provide the water and the City of Mendota Heights owns the water lines. This new,
municipal water service will provide improved fire protection for the proposed building
and the area and will allow the Lilydale Garden Center the opportunity to connect to
municipal water. One of the existing wells on the property will be abandoned prior to
construction. The other will provide water during construction and will be abandoned
prior to occupancy of the proposed building. On July 18, the Mendota Heights City
Council -ranted preliminary approval for water main extension. Preliminary plans for
the water main extension are attached and have been submitted to the City of Mendota
Heights for their review. Final plans will be incorporated into a development agreement
between the City of Mendota Heights and Lilydale Commons, LLC. Lilydale Commons
will also pay a Connection Charge and Water Availability Charge.
Plat / Subdivision Approval
The property,. to date, has not been platted._ A proposed plat is attached.. The proposed
plat includes creation of a new subdivision, Riverfront View Addition, which includes
two lots and an outlot. The two lots are divided by a line running roughly 20 feet north of
the established bluff line. This division of property retains the bluff line itself and
surrounding vegetation within the confines of Lot 1, on which the proposed building will
be constructed. In this way, the association of future owners of the proposed building can
maintain the bluff line and associated vegetation all within the same lot. Lot 2 will
contain the area presently zoned for Open Space. Outlot A is comprised of property
along the Mississippi River. It is our understanding that a subdivision agreement
between Lilydale Commons, LLC and the City of Lilydale will facilitate the subdivision
contemplated by the plat.
With this information, Mendota Homes, Inc. respectfully requests approval of the Final
Planned Unit Development and Rezoning for this new development, as well as plat
approval to allow subdivision.
MENDOTAHOMES INC.
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION
Final Planned Unit Development, Rezoning, Plat
Development Consultants:
Project Architect: Collaborative Design Group, Ben Metzdorff
100 Portland Avenue South, Suite 100
Minneapolis, MN 55454
Ph: 612-332-3654 Fax: 612-332-3626
bmetzdorff@,collaborativedesigngroup.com
Civil Engineer: Pat Carpenter, James R. Hill, Inc.
Surveyor: John Benner; James R. Hill, Inc.
2500 W. County Road 42, Suite 120
Burnsville, MN 55337
Ph: 952-890-6044 Fax: 952-890-6244
pcarpenter@jrhinc.com / jbenner@jrhinc.com
Landscape Architect: Sanders, Wacker, Bergly, Inc.
Vera Westrum
365 East Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55101
Ph: 651-221-0401 Fax: 651-297-6817
vwestrum@swbinc.com
Environmental Consultant: Pinnacle Engineering
Roy Hill
11541 951h Avenue North
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Ph: 763-315-4501 Fax: 763-315-4507
rhill@pineng.com
Forester: Kunde Companies
Steve Nicholson
2489 Rice Street 9160
Roseville, MN 55113
Ph: 651-484-0114
Attachments: Final Submittal Document Packet
Forester's Report
One Riverfront View Declaration
Proposed access easement to Lilydale Garden Center
DNR letter and species list
Stormwater Calculations prepared by James R. Hill, Inc.
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