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2018-09-25 Planning Comm MinutesSeptember 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 1 of 14 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES September 25, 2018 The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Planning Commission was held on Tuesday, September 25, 2018 in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve at 7:00 P.M. The following Commissioners were present: Chair Litton Field, Jr., Commissioners John Mazzitello, Patrick Corbett, Michael Noonan, Mary Magnuson, Michael Toth, and Brian Petschel. Those absent: None Approval of Agenda The agenda was approved as submitted. Approval of July 24, 2018 Minutes COMMISSIONER NOONAN MOVED, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER MAGNUSON TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF JULY 24, 2018, AS PRESENTED. AYES: 7 NAYS: 0 Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update A) DISCUSS THE LAND USE PLAN AND TRANSPORTATION PLAN ELEMENTS OF THE PROPOSED 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR THE CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS Planning Consultant Phil Carlson from Stantec explained that city staff and Stantec have been working for close to two years on the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, which is required to be updated every 10 years. This plan is then submitted to the Metropolitan Council (Met Council), other agencies, and surrounding communities. Mr. Carlson then provided a brief overview of purpose of the Comprehensive Plan and the sections it covers:  Introduction & Background  Land Use  Transportation  Parks and Open Space  Housing  Economic Development  Natural Resources  Resilience  Implementation  Mississippi River Critical Area Corridor Plan September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 2 of 14 Mr. Carlson then shared the Vision Statement: “Mendota Heights will be recognized as a high quality, family-oriented residential community, with a spacious, natural feel and the amenities of a city.” and the Mission Statement: “Our mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of life in Mendota Heights by providing quality public safety, infrastructure, and planning for orderly and sustainable growth.” LAND USE Mr. Carlson explained that Land Use means what is actually happening on the ground, how are the structures and land being used on the ground. Most of the City of Mendota Heights is designated as ‘low density residential’. There are large areas of park and open space; a large industrial park of 400+ acres, which is a well-functioning and well regarded business park; smaller areas of commercial and mixed use; and smaller areas of medium and high density residential. These land uses reflect generally what had been planned in the past and what is intended to be planned in the future. There are changes that are being proposed in the 2040 plan compared to the 2030 plan; some of which are housekeeping type changes; however, there are two areas that are being guided in the 2040 plan with slightly different low density designations. These two areas are still single family, low density residential; however, allowing for a smaller lot size. A lot size study was completed and concluded that some lots were larger than the city’s 15,000 square foot minimum; howe ver, there were some that were smaller and did not conform to the 15,000 square foot minimum. Therefore, new land use designations were created to allow these lots to meet the standards that they are in. An analysis of the age of the housing stock was also conducted; some parts of the city were developed in the 1930’s and 1940’s; a large area was developed in the 1950’s; and then every decade since there has been development. Affordable housing is an issue every city and in every region. There are many, m any people who simply cannot afford a house at almost any price. Trying to look for ways to provide more affordable housing is a challenge for every community. Housing is considered affordable if it costs less than 2.5 times the salary of the homeowner. This can be a real challenge and a burden for people at the very lowest end of the income scale. Many of these people work in the businesses we patronize in the city, many times they are public employees; it is not just busloads of poor people from the inner city. It is often times our friends and neighbors. Looking for ways to provide affordable housing is a challenge for the entire region. Goals and Policies The Goals and Policies listed in the Land Use section of the Comprehensive Plan are: GOAL 1: The land use plan will serve as the foundation for land use decisions in Mendota Heights. September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 3 of 14 Policies:  Develop in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan for land use, housing, transportation, parks and other community facilities.  Review and amend the Comprehensive Plan as necessary to ensure consistent development policy in current and future development decisions.  Zoning and rezoning decisions shall conform to the Land Use Plan.  The Land Use Plan will be updated to reflect changing priorities and conditions or as required by the Metropolitan Land Planning Act.  Balance land use designations to meet projected growth demand. GOAL 2: Preserve, protect, and enrich the mature, fully developed residential environment and character of the community. Policies:  Subdivision and zoning standards will emphasize high quality site and building design.  Emphasize quality design, innovative solutions, and a high general aesthetic level in community development and building.  Parks, trails and open spaces will be planned within walking distance of all residential areas.  Encourage development and planning of land that provides for reasonable access to surrounding properties.  Public buildings and properties will be designed, constructed and maintained to be a source of civic pride and to set a standard for private property owners to follow.  Historic preservation will be considered in land use decisions. GOAL 3: Support industrial and commercial development in designated areas. Policies:  The City will use available resources to meet redevelopment needs. This will include cooperation with the Dakota County and the Metropolitan Council to achieve redevelopment objectives.  Encourage appropriate transitions and buffering between potentially incompatible land uses. GOAL 4: Reduce the impact of aircraft noise within the community. Policies:  Increase public participation and representation through the Noise Oversight Committee (NOC) and the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC).  Achieve noise reduction through advocating modified takeoff procedures and corridor compliance.  Advocate an equitable distribution of aircraft traffic and a more equitable runway use system. September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 4 of 14  Monitor the continued implementation of the Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP) airport Comprehensive Plan.  Advocate for specific noise control measures through operational changes and advance technology.  Encourage establishment of a physical capacity for the Mendota Heights/Eagan corridor and transfer of general aviation use to other reliever airports.  Notify and work with MnDOT in the event that potential airspace obstructions are encountered.  Consider aircraft noise and safety issues as in applicable land use and zoning decisions. TRANSPORTATION Mr. Carlson explained that the transportation section looks at the roadway and highway system, which consists of arterials (main roadways), collector streets (secondary), and local streets. In Mendota Heights there are a combination of federal highways, state highways, county roadways, and local streets. The city is well served by this major highway system, with 35E, Highway 110 (now known as Highway 62), I-494, and Highway 55. By the same token, these major highways do divide the community and creates barriers to getting across the city and creating a community that is knitted together. An important piece of the transportation system is Dodd Road; many people are concerned about that because it is the link to the new Viking Development just south of our border in Eagan. City staff, the Planning Commission, and City Council are actively looking at what can be done to try and make that manageable. Dodd Road is a state highway – not a city street; therefore, the city does not have direct control over it. The city is served by a transit bus system; not as robustly as some communities that are more densely developed. This is a blessing and a curse of Mendota Heights. It is a spacious community and with that comes a lower density of potential riders. The businesses in the Industrial Park lamented that they wished there was better bus service to bring their employees to and from the park. Other parts of the city are also looking for a better bus service. The parks and trail systems are a combination of city and county parks and county trails, as well as private open spaces. These provide a network within the city and is one of the real sources of pride that makes the quality of life and character of Mendota Heights what it is. Goals and Policies The Goals and Policies listed in the Transportation section of the Comprehensive Plan are: GOAL 1: Provide a safe, high quality, and cost effective multi-model transportation system Policies:  Transportation improvements will be coordinated with the plans of MnDOT, Dakota County, Metropolitan Council, and adjoining communities. September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 5 of 14  The City will support regional improvements to major transportation facilities serving the city when feasible.  New construction techniques, technologies, and environmental sustainability will be considered in planning new transportation facilities.  A network of sidewalks and trails will be constructed in all new developments and redevelopments, where practical and feasible.  Developers will be required to provide the transportation facilities within and adjacent to new subdivisions, including rights-of-way, roadways, and bicycle and pedestrian facilities necessary to support their development.  Existing transportation facilities will be maintained so as to preserve or improve service levels and minimize life-cycle costs. This includes an ongoing pavement management program for city streets.  Where practical and feasible, planning for roadway improvements will include landscaping, street lighting, and other aesthetic improvements. GOAL 2: Expand transit options serving Mendota Heights Policies:  The City will continue to support and participate in efforts to implement improved transit service in the City.  The City will seek county, regional, state or federal funding to expand transit services in and around the city. Chair Field opened the public hearing on the Land Use and Transportation sections of the draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update. Mr. Bernard Friel, 750 Mohican Lane, has lived in Mendota Heights for 61 years, served on the Planning Commission for 12 years, and has been heavily involved in matters involving the city planning and zoning since the early 1960’s. He referenced an article in a Minneapolis newspaper written by Jack Davies, former legislature and court of appeals judge, where he said that “the battle to end the scourge of multi-subject bills seems to be won”, where he was referring to the bills containing legislation on many different subjects that inhibits the ability of both legislators and the public to give appropriate attention and debate to the individual subjects. Mr. Friel felt that the manner in which the Planning Commission was handling the proposed changes to the Comprehensive Plan was subject to the same criticism. He suspected that many did not understand what was really being proposed. He stated that the Commission is actually proposing a half dozen Comprehensive Plan land use amendments, further amendments to existing land use categories, several new land use categories, and changing written policies and adding provisions. To have the public understand and back up these proposals they should be considered separately. The city was proposing two Comprehensive Plan land use changes, an LR-9 and an LR-5, and were saying they were necessary to avoid variance requests to alter setbacks of yards, buildings, and other structures on non-conforming grandfathered lots, particularly in Friendly Hills and the north end, which were developed before there were zoning or Comprehensive Plans. He believed September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 6 of 14 that the city could do all of that without changes in the Comprehensive Plan. The city already has three different land use categories in single family residential; an R-1 at 15,000 square feet, an R- 1B at 30,000 square feet; and an R-1C with 20,000 square feet – each with its own individual set of setbacks, building sizes, etc. He felt there was no reason why the city couldn’t an R-1D and an R-1E. He believed that the proposed land use changes would open the city to requests to re-guide properties other than those being proposed at this time. Even if this Council, or some future Council, were to refuse said requests, they could be overturned just as the Council’s decision was on the Olin property recently. Mr. Friel could not understand the motivation for making such sweeping changes to the land use plan; changes that could only have the effect of promoting significant increases in density and traffic to the degradation of this city’s fine reputation; opening a door to providing for employment for developers, planners, engineers, and lawyers. Mr. Friel continued by noting that last week, in response to a suggestion he made at the Planning Commission workshop, the outside planner suggested that he lacked the background to disagree with him, certified that the outside planner’s 45 years of experience trumped the point Mr. Friel was making. In response to this, Mr. Friel listed his qualifications:  For approximately 10 years he served as City Attorney for two metropolitan area communities  Served as bond council for hundreds of municipal governments in the State of Minnesota and elsewhere  The Cities of Duluth and Cloquet hired him to draft the legislation which created the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District  He was called upon frequently by the Minnesota State Reviser of Statutes to draft bills for the Minnesota Legislature  He organized and chaired the Municipal Bond Department of his law firm that is now the bond council for this city. Mr. Friel pointed out that none of his qualifications were relevant in determining whether his position was correct or trumped a different view; it was rather whether his position has factual support. In that connection he might refer to something Mr. Carlson said earlier – the industrial area of this community has not needed any fixing and has functioned very well. Frankly, that remark applies to everything else in the City of Mendota Heights and its current Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance. Mr. Brian Selg, 867 Bluebill Drive, has been a resident for 45 years and raised his family here. He stated that his position was that the city could forget about everything they were planning on doing; no further development in Mendota Heights. The tipping point has already been exceeded and any existing open spaces should be converted to either forest land or prairie land. Ms. Marina Mcmanus, 1026 Victoria Court, has been a resident since 1989 and has served as a Planning Commissioner. She moved into this community because of its location, positive reputation of being family focused, and open spaces. Her concern now for the community is that the character and best features be maintained. Therefore, she does not support the proposals for increasing density and all of the things that come along with it – traffic being one of them. The September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 7 of 14 residents and the city cannot change the highway systems; however, they can change what was being proposed to be done in the community that would create more traffic. She is not opposed to growth or change and as a Planning Commissioner she supported commercial and residential development; however, when discussing those particular developments it was to serve current and future needs – not too big and not too little, but just right to maintain the character and the feel of the community. The effects of large developments are already being felt; traffic noise, congestion, and air quality do not improve once the natural and environmental character is lost; and would not fit the mission statement. She recently received notices of changes proposed along Victoria Curve and did not understand the rationale or the need to change from low density residential to medium density as it is not in keeping with the current character of the neighborhood and would seriously change it; she does not support that and requested that the Planning Commission think about that in the final decision making. Ms. Christine Solberg, 1062 Chippewa Avenue, stated that she would be directly affected by the northeast proposal (smaller lot sizes) as she has vacant lots on either side of her home; she was very concerned about water flows should homes be built on these two lots as she is loc ated at the bottom of a hill. She was also concerned about the value of her home declining as these lots do not allow for a very large homes and her home value would be based on the values of neighboring homes. She and the other second generation people living in the area love the neighborhood the way it is – the open space they have is in compliance with the vision statement. She felt that her neighborhood was considered ‘the ugly stepchild’ because they border St. Paul and West St. Paul. She would like to have their vacant 5,000 – 6,000 square foot lots left alone so they too can enjoy some of that open space. Ms. Nancy Gerber, 1081 Douglas Road, was present to talk about the change that is across the driveway in her back yard at the corner of Sibley Memorial Highway and Lexington. Her driveway is off the hill on Lexington and in the winter it is treacherous and is often closed by the Police. The traffic on Lexington is slated to increase some and the new development in The Orchard will add homes that would likely use Lexington. The speed limit on Lexington is 40 mph and until one gets to Marie, after which it turns to 30 mph. Many of the motorists do not notice the change in speed limit. She questioned the safety of putting all of those people on the hill behind her. She requested that the commissioners read the comments that she provided to them and reiterated that traffic is an issue as well as pedestrian / bike traffic as there are no sidewalks or trails, this being a county road. Also her property is in a historic area and the property behind her probably is as well. It does not look like it would be the most buildable kind of place – it would really change the character of that corner. The property on the other western side of the road is also a single family home that is not being changed to a high density property and she questioned why one side and not the other. Mr. John Maczko, 751 Cheyenne Lane, has lived in the community for over 58 years. He knew when he purchased his lot that it was considered a non-conforming lot and went through all of the necessary steps to obtain the variances needed to build. He expressed his concern that the proposed September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 8 of 14 land use could easily morph into the unintended consequences as allowing other undeveloped areas – like a 3 acre parcel – being developed as medium density. He questioned whether or not a current 15,000 square foot lot could be subdivided into three 5,000 square foot lots in keeping with the character of the community, obtaining the necessary variances, etc. Ms. Jill Smith, 625 Hampshire Drive, is a candidate for mayor of Mendota Heights, served for eight years on the City Council, and has significant leadership and planning experience on other county, regional, and university boards and with 3M. She spoke strongly against the proposed provisions of adding land use designations to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. These are intended for legal non-conforming areas of the city under the current zoning and arbitrary changes in others. This action would open the door for greater density and could compromise the character and integrity of existing neighborhoods. Adding new land use categories is a poor solution for well thought out city planning. These changes would also require new zoning regulations that have not yet been determined and would affect existing neighborhoods. This would also deprive many residents the ability to consider the full impacts of these changes. Other solutions – like revisions to the zoning code – would better serve to address this issue and not compromise the future character of the city. She requested consideration be given to other more responsible solutions for this matter. Ms. Beth Pearlman 1773 Diane Road, asked what was driving this land use change. She understood that part of it was to update the look of the city plan. She asked if there were developers or other organizations who were asking for these changes or was it simply coming out of the city’s desire to make it look cleaner and more organized. Chair Field replied that, as mentioned by Mr. Carlson, it was to clean up some land use issues in the city and trying to make some of those properties, which are currently legal non-conforming uses, into conforming land uses. Ms. Pearlman suggested that maybe this was not worth opening up the hornet’s nest as it appears to be doing. Mr. Steve Treichel, 2174 Lemay Lake Drive, echoed the comments made by everyone else before him. He also noted that the dog park located on Acacia Drive is being changed to Industrial and asked how the dog owners would be notified of that land use change. He noted that everyone needs to live consequently. He was at a Planning Commission meeting where a gentleman – Michael Swenson – stood in front of the commission and said there was not going to be any stormwater draining into Lemay Lake. He requested that the commission live consequently and do their homework – find out if that is true or not. He continued by explaining that the city should have better control over the state highways within the city. Who cares that they are state roads – do something and talk with the state regarding the traffic. Commissioner Noonan asked for clarification that the dog park was currently designated as Industrial. Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that it is currently guided as Industrial in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan and also guided as Industrial in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan – there is no change proposed in that land use. September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 9 of 14 Mr. Maurice Lazarus, 1650 Mayfield Heights Road, in response to his friends and neighbors comments regarding the Highway 13 and Lex ington property – the one that would be changed from LR-15 into a medium density guidance in the current plan – reminded the commission of an application received from the owner of that property approximately one year ago for the same guidance in the plan. The major point that he took up in support of his application was the fact that ‘all of the properties around him were of much higher density’; however, they were located in the City of Lilydale. The commission also heard how the 2030 Comprehensive Plan guided medium density to zero by the end of the plan. The commission approved that guidance at the point in time, but it was not adopted by the City Council. With that consideration in mind, he thought it would be appropriate that this continue to be guided as LR-15 property with the two home that are on it. He urged the commission to make that edit within the draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan. He also stated that he understands that this is a laborious process and expressed his appreciation to the commission for all of their hard work. However, it is important to listen to the residents as the paramount voice guiding these issues. Mr. Keith Ostrosky, 1680 Lexington Avenue, lives on the corner of Lexington Avenue and Highway 13 – the property referenced by Mr. Lazarus. According to this draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the idea to rezone would be to make it fit into the character of the neighborhood; from a single family home that is surrounded by 408 units in multi -family homes. He tried last year to rezone that property so it would fit into the character of the neighborhood. He was not asking to build a condominium in the middle of single family homes, he was asking to put condominiums in the middle of condominiums. To maintain the R-1 guidance would continue to have his property be out of character of the surrounding neighborhood. He would be in support of the re-guidance as proposed in the draft plan. Mr. Ned Rukavina, 1704 Vicki Lane, expressed his appreciation to the commission for their service to the community and to the residents for coming and being active in the process, being informed in their voting, and their participation. His concern was that when smaller lot sizes are introduced without having a zoning code that would follow with them and then the development guidelines of character, look, and setbacks – it would not be in sync with the whole proposal. He wished the commission to look at it in its entirety so the development guidelines, the zoning code, and the enforcement of the zoning codes. Ms. Tamara Will, 788 Hokah Avenue, have four comments to make:  There is a disparity between the definition of ‘spacious’ and ‘low density’ between the commission, the residents, and the planner; 5,000 and 9,000 square foot lots are not ‘spacious’  The 2030 Comprehensive Plan map and the ‘what is existing’ map do not match. That tells her that the city has not been following the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. She wondered aloud what the point was. She was not the only one who has been taken by surprise by events that affect her that were not in the plan.  The ramifications of traffic on the different things being proposed – she lives just off of Dodd Road, across from Mendakota Park. Traffic has been increasingly more congested as time goes by. People are taking the I-494 / 35E interchange and they do not want to wait in that traffic so they zoom down to Highway 110 and then take 35E. In addition to the September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 10 of 14 Viking Complex, the Mendota Apartment Building, Mendota Plaza, etc. they city has that as well. There is a bigger picture here that needs to be considered. The crash study completed in 2015 showed that there were already significant issues at Highway 110 and Dodd Road; at South Plaza Drive and Dodd Road, yet the heavy developments in Mendota Plaza were still allowed. Dodd Road is a state highway, but to her it is her residential street and she hoped the city would advocate on her behalf.  The commission and staff have obviously worked very hard on this plan and 1.5 – 2 years is a lot of time to put into something. She realized it was probably disappointing to have it criticized and it would be hard to think about throwing it out; however, she suggested that they do just that. Mr. Thomas Smith, 625 Hampshire Drive, made the observation that the agenda for this meeting was posted on the city website at 10:30 am yesterday; less than 36 hours from when this meeting started. This struck him as unacceptable in terms of the service, which this commission is supposed to provide. This was not adequate citizen notification of what the commission is about. He also expressed his contradiction to Mr. Carlson’s statements in three major respects: 1. Mr. Carlson claimed that every 10 years the Met Council requires the Comprehensive Plan of a municipality, including this one, to be updated. This is incorrect. It is perfectly acceptable, since the Met Council has not notified this city that changes to the existing Comprehensive Plan is required, for the city to submit the existing plan to the Met Council without any need for further concern. 2. He noted that many residents had asked what was driving this plan update. He believed it to be the Met Council, who have had for a long time an agenda of density development. In fact, the Met Council wording of the THRIVE 2040 Plan, their plan for development in the Twin Cities area, is replicated in a number of major respects in the city’s draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan. If the Comprehensive Plan is modified as proposed by this commission, this opens the door for any residential property in the city to be downsized to 5,000 or 9,000 square feet. It would be inevitable. He theorized that one of the incentives for this was the 400 acre Viking development just south of the city. He claimed that he had it on good authority, from one of the region’s major developers, which clients are already nosing around looking for development opportunities in Mendota Heights – like a plum waiting to be plucked. 3. He also pointed out that there options, as Mr. Freil described, rather than changing the Comprehensive Plan – that being to change the existing zoning ordinances – adding two – which would take care of the problem without the threat of degrading the whole character of the community. He disagreed with Mr. Carlson when he said that this change to the Comprehensive Plan would support spacious development in the city. Mr. Carlson also claimed that it would improve the quality of life in the city – Mr. Smith disagreed. Mr. Smith concluded by stating that the changes to the Comprehensive Plan are unnecessary, inappropriate, and should be categorically rejected by the commission. Mr. Charles Mathison, 2294 Dodd Road, noted that there are three larger properties on the southeast corner of Decorah and Dodd Road and asked if they were considered part of the Friendly September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 11 of 14 Hills Addition. Commissioner Mazzitello replied that they are not a part of the Friendly Hills Addition. He also asked about the two houses on the corner of Keokuk and Apache – were they the ones asking for the land to be subdivided. This seems like, if there are just two houses, they have an option. It seems like a lot of work to go through just to be able to rezone it if there are only two properties in the entire addition. Commissioner Mazzitello replied that no one has requested this. He also noted that these two lots are large enough and have the frontage so under this proposal they could potentially be split in the future. However, since both of those would split and create a corner lots, which would have front yard setbacks on two sides of the new property, one of the two lots on each of those corners would not be buildable. There would not be any economic advantage to splitting them. Mr. Mathison then asked if there were any lots in the Friendly Hills Addition that could be split. Mr. Mazzitello replied in the negative. Mr. Mathison asked what the purpose of making the change in the Comprehensive Plan. Commissioner Noonan replied that it was as Mr. Carlson said – to recognize what was on the ground today, to guide it so it matches up with what the mini lots are with the 90-foot frontages, and eliminating non-conforming uses. Mr. Chadwick Vandarious, 1312 Wachtler Avenue, stated that doing the changes as mentioned by Mr. Mathison – for conformity reasons and to clean up the guidance – seemed to him that the Comprehensive Plan is way too important to be used for clean-up. He did not want to repeat a lot of what has already been said, but wanted to express his discontent and say that he opposes the draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The arguments he heard in defense were along the lines of ‘it’s not really going to change anything’; ‘it’s not a big deal’; and rather stepping in the wrong direction it’s not really stepping in any direction – so why do it. He then encouraged others, even if they did not have anything new to add, to stand up and express their opposition. Mr. Jim Losleben, 815 Hazel Court, has lived in Mendota Heights since 1962 and served on the original Park Board. He too could repeat everything that was said; however, the thing that really bothered him was that the commission did not appear to be listening to the people. He has not heard one person tonight say that this was a good idea or a good plan. He questioned who was working the commission and the Council over. Ms. Kate Christensen, 2280 Ocala Court, echoed a lot of the comments already made. When she came early enough to ask why the changes she was told that it was to eliminate people having to apply for variances to, for example, put a shed on their lot. She proposed that the commission look at facts and data and find out how many variances had to be applied for and talked through in the last 10 years. If it was only a few, then she would propose that these changes are unnecessary. In regards to the information received, as she read it looked like density. The information is also misleading and at times incorrect. For instance, it reads ‘typically they are less than 10,000 square feet’. She looked it up at the Dakota County website and found that it was only 15% - not typical. Then it says ‘most are less than the minimum’ – 15% is not most either. When the public notices are sent out they need to be correct. She also proposed that they include the ‘why’ in the September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 12 of 14 notice letter. She then pointed out what she considered to be errors in the draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan and suggested that they get the details right. She concluded by saying that it does not appear to be a reason to change and agreed with most everyone in attendance by suggesting it not be done. Mr. Jonathan Zagel, 2230 Copperfield Drive, expressed his appreciation for being given the opportunity to speak and for all of the hard work the commission put into the plan and for all that have done for the city. He stated that a group of citizens, along with some of the city employees, have put a lot work also into a Natural Resources Plan and a Resiliency Plan is still being worked on. One of the things concentrated on during these meetings was ‘what is the long-term strategy, why are we doing the things we want to do’. He believed that the goals that were skimmed over or skipped by Mr. Carlson may have been the most important part of the Comprehensive Plan. This is what sets the tone and where the city wants to be in 20 years. He agreed that the changing of zoning would be more appropriate to an ordinance discussion, not when talking about a large strategic plan. He urged the Planning Commission to really concentrate and think about where the city wants to be in 20 years and get on the same page, rather than getting stuck on these tactical items. Mr. Jeff Fischer, 989 William Court, noted on the 2030 map there is a rezone for three houses off Highway 110 on Dakota Drive. He asked what the plan was there right now, because there are only three small lots, with a bike shop next door, and a joke of a daycare. He was concerned because it starts with three houses and then it can morph into larger lots, from medium density to high density. Mr. Benetti replied that the lots are currently single family residential but the guidance in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan is to have them guided as medium density residential. They are next to commercially zoned properties. Commissioner Mazzitello suggested that this be reviewed and a definite answer be provided to Mr. Fischer. Mr. Ultan Duggan, 2331 Copperfield Drive, noted that many people in the Hiawatha area on the north end of town have requested consideration of a change by the Commission, the city, or th e City Council. He asked how many people in the Friendly Hills area have asked for consideration of a change in designation to their land to LR-5 or LR-9; and he was surprised to see a third designation of LR-6. As a councilmember he had no idea of any of this; none of this has come through the City Council. Chair Field replied that typically this is where the commission would start to do that as part of the plan process. Mr. Duggan noted that it is correct in that the city does not have to make a change. He suggested that if the Commission is not hearing much from the Hiawatha area nor from the Friendly Hills area, they should question why this is being pursued and wasting their valuable time. Being a current Councilmember, Mr. Duggan confirmed that the City Council has decided that the dog park shall remain as a dog park for at least another 4.5 to 5 years. September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 13 of 14 Ms. Ingrid Mattson, 2005 Victoria Road, said that she feels like she landed in the best place in the State of Minnesota to live. She has wonderful neighbors and loves the feeling in the community. She explained that the heart of the matter is that the residents love this community and they want to protect it. It is not true that the residents are not open to change; they accepted curb being installed in the neighborhood, they accepted The Village, and have accepted a lot of other changes. The city has done a good job in trying to plan what is best for the future. However, she asked that these changes from residential to medium density not take place; there is already too much traffic. Ms. Leslie Pilgrim, 1704 Vicki Lane, has lived in the city since 1966. She attended various meetings and listened to the exciting future of the Comprehensive Plan for the community and felt really in sync with her neighbors. She encouraged the Commission to go back and review the notes provided by the residents on what they would like to see – rural feel, open spaces, green spaces, biking paths – the community that the people expressed; comments and feedback that was requested by the Commission. Now there is a room full of very confused people wondering how they got from those meetings to this today. Ms. Rachel Quick, 554 Junction Lane, lives on the north end of town. She likes the idea of the zoning change. As a homeowner it makes things easier for her and would improve her property. She then noted that she is running for City Council because this is a community and resident feedback is the most important part about serving in one of these roles. While she feels like the Commission is trying to correct a wrong in trying to make conforming lots; it does not sound like there is a strong need for the change. She believed there was more work to be done and if there was not a strong need for this change, it could be tabled and other options could be reviewed. Mr. Bob Klepperich, 1092 Vale Drive, noted that he received a notice of a public hearing for three properties on Victoria Curve; the proposal being to change the zoning from single-family to medium density residential district. He raised his concern about when these changes are made is the water table. The creek running next to these properties, which eventually flows into an underground creek bed; which runs through is front yard. He has had his share of water issues in the past and would not like to see it get any worse as a result of this proposed construction. He hoped that the master plan for this proposed construction would include project engineers and contractors, as well as representatives from the city that would take into account the fragile water table. Mr. Chadwick Vandarious, 1312 Wachtler Avenue, returned and noted that in the draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan, medium residential would allow for up to 8 units per acre; however, LR -5 would allow for 8.8 units per acre. He then asked why the inconsistency. Mr. Carlson replied that years ago, medium residential was guided as only allowing 8 units per acre; however, in the LR-5 district (5,000 square foot lots) dividing a one acre lot by 5,000 square feet would equal 8.8 units per acre. He also noted that the medium density designation would allow for multi -family structures, like townhouses. The single-family low density designation would not. Ms. Joyce Selg, 867 Bluebill Drive, has lived in the community since 1973. She does not consider Mendota Heights to be what it used to be; the changes made are not what the residents want but what the commission and the council wants. The residents want parks, they want things to do; and everything they try to do is being taken away; the land, the animals don’t have any place to go, September 25, 2018 Mendota Heights Planning Commission Meeting Page 14 of 14 even daily walks to the park is dangerous, dangerous driving, and the parking is very limited. She admonished the Commission for not providing better safety for the residents, appearing to only want to take the residents money, and destroying the history and memories of the community. Ms. Cindy Nelson, 1754 Victoria Road South, stated that she learned this evening that the lots on Victoria Road would also be proposed for a medium density, and with the revelation of there being an underground creek, she encouraged the Commission to not recommend the medium density designation on those properties. She encouraged them to keep that a residential low density; like it is now. COMMISSIONER MAZZITELLO MOVED, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER NOONAN, TO EXTEND THE PUBLIC HEARING TO THE OCTOBER 23, 2018 MEETING TO HEAR PUBLIC COMMENTS ON THE REMAINING CHAPTERS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AYES: 7 NAYS: 0 Adjournment Chair Field noted that there would be one additional Planning Commission Meeting to be held on Thursday, October 4, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers to consider an application which was presented to the City in time for this current meeting; however, in light of the importance of receiving comments on the Comprehensive Plan, the Commission did not want to have that public hearing run concurrent with the discussion on the Comprehensive Plan. Commissioner Mazzitello noted that there is another workshop regarding the Comprehensive Plan on Monday, October 15, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. This is a joint workshop between the Planning Commission and the City Council. Mr. Carlson explained the process going forward for the Comprehensive Plan; when the Planning Commission is comfortable with the plan, they would move it forward to the City Council. The City Council would then consider the plan and, if passed, it would be submitted to the Metropolitan Council (Met Council) and surrounding communities for their comments. COMMISSIONER MAZZITELLO MOVED, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER PETSCHEL, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:56 P.M. AYES: 7 NAYS: 0 From:ryan Nelson To:Tim Benetti Subject:LR-9 Low Density Residential Meeting Date:Saturday, September 22, 2018 11:16:57 AM Hello Tim, I live at 2306 Nashua Ln and I have a few concerns about zoning change proposal and letter that was sent out last week. The properties located on Nashua Lane seem to meet the 9,000 square ft requirement and typically have a different style homes (two story) and larger lots than neighborhood closer to Dodd Rd with one level homes and much smaller lots. Should these areas really be grouped together for this zoning purpose? Seems like more properties on Nashua would meet new zoning district with properties of 9,000 sq ft. The letter was received this week for a meeting next week. This seems like very short notice for proposed changes to people's property. Will there be another meeting? Thanks, Ryan Nelson Concerns for the proposed development on the corner of Sibley Memorial Highway and Lexington Ave. 1. Traffic Current traffic on the lower part of Lexington is already concerning. Although the speed limit is reduced from 40 to 30 at Marie, very few cars slow down. Nearly every time I turn into my driveway going north, I am tailgated. A left turn from the bottom of the hill can often be precarious because the speeding drivers cannot see me until they are very close. There have been several near misses. Additionally, in the winter thee road ices up and cars slide down or cannot make it up the hill. And the Mendota Heights police often need to travel very quickly on Lexington to answer calls. There is no space for pedestrians and bikes on this part of the road. This adds to the danger. Pelotons of bikers like to use the hill for training and it is a missing link in the walking path network. There is little remedy for this and Dakota County has no plans to improve this section of road. The development in the orchard will add a significant amount of traffic to this section of road as it is, making it more dangerous. Adding several households to the area of greatest concern is questionable. The projections in the 2040 plan document indicate a significant increase in traffic, but no changes in infrastructure to support it. 2. Density The 2040 plan states : “ Plan for new growth at overall average densities of 5 units per acre.” Yet this project is proposed to be 8 units per acre. Why does the city want to make this project even more dense? Does it add to the vitality and stated mission of the city of Mendota Heights? While it is centrally located in the metropolitan area, the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers form a natural green belt around it, allowing the community to maintain a quiet, private way of life, unique in the Twin Cities 3. Noise Construction and possible inhabitants will not maintain a quiet, private way of life foe me and my neighbors. The property is on a hill and sound travels. Previous projects on the property have had heavy machinery operating past 9 PM making it unpleasant to be in our yard or have windows open. How long would I have to endure this construction noise? What is reasonable? I am a retired teacher and like to garden and utilize my yard. 4. Expense – Any proposed infrastructure will have a greater impact the taxes of current residences with more property than the new residents with smaller lot sizes. In effect current residents will pay to add the new ones, with questionable benefit. 5. Historic preservation will be considered in land use decisions. This project falls in the Historic riverway; I know because it cost us an application and an extra $100 to put up a garden shed. Is this kind of density consistent with the intention of the historic district? Vision Statement Mendota Heights will be recognized as a high quality, family-oriented residential community, with a spacious, natural feel and the amenities of a city. Mission Statement Our mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of life in Mendota Heights by providing quality public safety, infrastructure, and planning for orderly and sustainable Does the Mission and Vision of Mendota Heights is a quiet community apply to our property? This change will likely have a negative impact on our quality of life, safety and property value. I do not have campaign signs in my yard and have no personal, political, or financial relationships with city officials; but I believe that the council should represent all of us. I am here to let you know that the proposed project at the corner of Lexington and Sibley Memorial Highway is of questionable benefit given the increased danger to the people who use the road. From:Nancy Gerber To:Tim Benetti Subject:Concerns about the proposed change in density at the end of Lexington Ave. Date:Monday, September 24, 2018 2:52:05 PM Attachments:Document2.docx Dear Mr. Benetti, I remain opposed to adding housing to the property on Lexington Avenue and Sibley Memorial Highway. I have attached a list of my concerns. I plan to attend the open house and council meeting on Tuesday to add my voice to the comment period. In addition to it having a negative impact on our quality of life in a quiet suburb, it is dangerous for people using this portion of Lexington Avenue. I read the 2040 plan and do not see how this piece is consistent with the stated goals of the plan. Thank you for considering our concerns and point of view, Clyde and Nancy Gerber Concerns for the proposed development on the corner of Sibley Memorial Highway and Lexington Ave. 1. Traffic Current traffic on the lower part of Lexington is already concerning. Although the speed limit is reduced from 40 to 30 at Marie, very few cars slow down. Nearly every time I turn into my driveway going north, I am tailgated. A left turn from the bottom of the hill can often be precarious because the speeding drivers cannot see me until they are very close. There have been several near misses. Additionally, in the winter thee road ices up and cars slide down or cannot make it up the hill. And the Mendota Heights police often need to travel very quickly on Lexington to answer calls. There is no space for pedestrians and bikes on this part of the road. This adds to the danger. Pelotons of bikers like to use the hill for training and it is a missing link in the walking path network. There is little remedy for this and Dakota County has no plans to improve this section of road. The development in the orchard will add a significant amount of traffic to this section of road as it is, making it more dangerous. Adding several households to the area of greatest concern is questionable. The projections in the 2040 plan document indicate a significant increase in traffic, but no changes in infrastructure to support it. 2. Density The 2040 plan states : “ Plan for new growth at overall average densities of 5 units per acre.” Yet this project is proposed to be 8 units per acre. Why does the city want to make this project even more dense? Does it add to the vitality and stated mission of the city of Mendota Heights? While it is centrally located in the metropolitan area, the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers form a natural green belt around it, allowing the community to maintain a quiet, private way of life, unique in the Twin Cities 3. Noise Construction and possible inhabitants will not maintain a quiet, private way of life foe me and my neighbors. The property is on a hill and sound travels. Previous projects on the property have had heavy machinery operating past 9 PM making it unpleasant to be in our yard or have windows open. How long would I have to endure this construction noise? What is reasonable? I am a retired teacher and like to garden and utilize my yard. 4. Expense – Any proposed infrastructure will have a greater impact the taxes of current residences with more property than the new residents with smaller lot sizes. In effect current residents will pay to add the new ones, with questionable benefit. 5. Historic preservation will be considered in land use decisions. This project falls in the Historic riverway; I know because it cost us an application and an extra $100 to put up a garden shed. Is this kind of density consistent with the intention of the historic district? Vision Statement Mendota Heights will be recognized as a high quality, family-oriented residential community, with a spacious, natural feel and the amenities of a city. Mission Statement Our mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of life in Mendota Heights by providing quality public safety, infrastructure, and planning for orderly and sustainable Does the Mission and Vision of Mendota Heights is a quiet community apply to our property? This change will likely have a negative impact on our quality of life, safety and property value. I do not have campaign signs in my yard and have no personal, political, or financial relationships with city officials; but I believe that the council should represent all of us. I am here to let you know that the proposed project at the corner of Lexington and Sibley Memorial Highway is of questionable benefit given the increased danger to the people who use the road.