1995-01-24 Planning Comm MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES •
JANUARY 24, 1995
The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Planning Commission was
held on Tuesday, January 24, 1995, in the City Hall Council
Chambers, 1101 Victoria Curve. The meeting was called to order at
7:30 o'clock P.M. The following members were present: Koll,
Friel, Betlej, Dwyer, Lorberbaum, Duggan and Tilsen. Also present
were Public Works Director Jim Danielson, Planning Consultant John
Uban, Administrative Assistant Kevin Batchelder and Senior
Secretary Kim Blaeser.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Tilsen moved approval of the December 29, 1994,
Minutes with corrections.
Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
ABSTAIN: 1, DWYER
CASE NO. 94-35:
SIGNART (DR.LEE) -
SIGN SETBACK VARIANCE
Chair Dwyer explained that Mr. Bob Sherlock, of SignArt,
appeared on behalf of Dr. Barbara Lee, 780 South Plaza Drive,
at the November Planning Commission meeting to request a sign
setback variance. He explained that the request was to allow
a sign with two forty eight (48) square foot surfaces to be
placed within the required front yard.
Dwyer explained that the applicant did not propose a specific
location for the sign and appeared before the Commission to
negotiate a location, preferably close to South Plaza Drive.
Chair Dwyer stated that Dr. Lee appeared before the City
Council on December 6, 1994. He explained that at that
meeting, Dr. Lee agreed that the sign be reduced in height to
no more than five feet (5') with a proportionate reduction in
width to six and one half feet or seven feet (6 1/2' or 7°),
that the redevelopment or intensification of the use of the
property will require all signage to meet City setbacks and
that all existing signage be removed. He further explained
that Dr. Lee did not agree that the illumination be turned off
1/2 hour after the close of business and that a minimal level
of illumination intensity be used.
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 2
Dwyer stated that the City Council felt that this application
was not properly addressed to the Planning Commission as there
was no specific location proposed for the sign. He explained
that the City Council referred this application back to the
Planning Commission for further consideration, in particular,
to address a proper level of illumination and a revised site
plan showing a proposed setback. He further explained that
Mayor Mertensotto desired that a quantifiable level of
illumination be determined.
Dr. Lee stated that she felt there was nothing agreed upon at
the City Council meeting. She further inquired if signs are
allowed within City right-of-way. Chair Dwyer responded that
signs are not permitted in the right-of-way. Dr. Lee stated
she would like the sign placed close to the property line.
She stated that her site plan reflects the placement of the
sign off the property and in the right-of-way with the size
being six feet by eight feet (6' x 8'). She stated that if
the sign is placed more than twelve feet (12') from the
property line, it will not be visible. She stated that she is
willing to compromise on the size and illumination of the sign
but that the location of the sign is critical. She further
stated that the proposed sign will look appropriate on South
Plaza Drive and will be uniform with other signs on South
Plaza Drive,
Dr. Lee submitted pictures of existing signage along South
Plaza Drive. She further stated that there is a row of
Russian Olive trees which provides a buffer between her
business and the day care center. She stated that these are
beautiful trees and both her patients and the day care
children enjoy them.
In response to a question from Commissioner Tilsen, Planner
Uban stated that the existing signs on South Plaza Drive have
been permitted if they meet sign setback requirements and that
variances have been obtained for signs closer to the property
line. Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated there are
two bank signs located on the property line and both have
received variances. He further explained that the Holly Homes
sign located in the boulevard was approved prior to the City
employing a full time code enforcement officer (1978). He
stated there are no City records indicating if the sign was
properly placed according to an approved sign plan.
Planner Uban stated that his original report suggested that
the sign be setback ten feet (10') from the right-of-way line.
He stated that this would allow location of the sign in an
area which would be more visible from Dodd Road, but would not
be in a location that interferes with the visibility from cars
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 3
leaving the site. He further stated that when a sign is moved
closer to the right-of-way to get better visibility, the size
of the sign can be reduced.
Commissioner Duggan explained that the City is reluctant to
allow the construction of any building, sign or landscaping
within City right-of-way because of possible City improvements
such as road widening, which would then force the removal of
structure or sign.
Commissioner Duggan stated that his concern in November was
regarding the hours of illumination. He stated that he felt
that the sign should be turned off at the close of business.
Dr. Lee responded that both the Holly Homes and Bright Start
signs are lit well after close of their business.
Commissioner Duggan inquired if Dr. Lee would agree to a 9:00
P.M. illumination deadline. He further stated that the City
has no lighting standard and that he is looking for what is
appropriate in the area. He further stated that he
understands that Dr. Lee is trying to promote her business.
He suggested that a timer be used. Dr. Lee stated that 9:00
P.M. deadline would be fine.
Commissioner Betlej inquired about information regarding
quantifiable illumination. Mr. Sherlock, of SignArt, stated
that they would install the signage and lights. He stated
that at that time, he would make adjustments. He further
stated that just the letters will be illuminated. He stated
it would be similar to the City Hall signage. Planner Uban
stated that the measurement of light should consist of how
much light is appropriate and how to control the light. He
stated that there should be five watts per square foot. Mr.
Sherlock stated that the signage meets all current criteria
for illumination. Planner Uban stated there is no Ordinance
requirement for foot candles. He stated the Ordinance
includes glare reduction. Uban stated the closer a sign is to
the property line, the less illuminated it needs to be. Dr.
Lee stated she does not want the sign to appear burnt out.
Chair Dwyer inquired if the City Hall light is lit the entire
night. Dr. Lee responded that the Mayor informed her that it
is because the City Hall is considered an emergency facility
since the Police Department is located within the building.
Mr. Sherlock informed that Commission that he would obtain
information from Visual Communications regarding criteria for
lighting. He stated that SignArt usually builds their signs
according to Visual Communications' specifications.
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 4
Commissioner Friel stated that the Ordinance restricts square
footage of signs within the B-1 District to fifty (50) square
feet, all surfaces. He stated the proposed sign exceeds the
Ordinance requirements. He further inquired about hardship.
Dr. Lee responded that this is the first time she heard about
square foot restrictions. She stated that the Dakota County
State Bank signage exceeds the square foot requirements.
Dr. Lee explained that her hardship is based on the fact that
new clientele are unable to find her practice. She stated
that most people pass the building up. She stated that her
building is not noticeable and that the sign would help people
to find her building. She stated that she is not seeking to
advertise her practice. Commissioner Duggan informed the
Commission that Dr. Lee expressed her hardship in November as
helping people find her building. He further explained that
only one side of the sign will be effective and to leave the
other side blank seemed to be out of balance. He stated the
November minutes reflect this conversation.
Commissioner Koll cited information from Section 21.5(9)a
regarding signs in right-of-way. She stated that any sign
within a right-of-way is in violation of the City's Zoning
Ordinance. Commissioner Friel defined hardship as per the
City's Zoning Ordinance. Chair Dwyer stated the Planning
Commission reviews requests on a case-by-case basis. He
stated that an applicant applying for a variance is charged
with presenting a hardship. He further stated that if there
is no hardship, the Planning Commission cannot recommend
approval of a variance.
Commissioner Duggan moved to recommend that the City Council
grant the variance request conditioned upon the following:
1. The lighting of the sign meet City standards as
recommended by Visual Communications.
2. The signage size be 6' by 4 1/2'.
3. The sign be setback ten feet (10') from the property
line, twenty-two feet (22') from the pavement.
4. The sign be illuminated on both sides.
5. The sign be turned off at 9:00 o'clock P.M.
Commissioner Lorberbaum seconded the motion.
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 5
Dr. Lee stated she is not willing to accept the Planning
Commission's recommendation.
Commissioner Duggan amended his motion to increase the signage
to 7' by 5'. Dr. Lee responded that she wants the sign to be
located at her property line.
VOTE ON MOTION
AYES: 4
NAYS: 3, KOLL, FRIEL, BETLEJ
Commissioner Koll inquired if Dr. Lee is looking for a zero
foot setback. Dr. Lee responded yes. Dr. Lee further stated
it is not worth her time to go back to the City Council.
CASE NO. 95-01:
CURLEY FURNITURE COMPANY -
SIGN VARIANCE
Mr. Tim Curley, of Curley Furniture Company, located at 1044
Highway 110, was present to discuss his request for a sign
variance.
Mr. Curley explained that the building was constructed, by his
parents, in 1968. He stated that the sign has been in
existence for 26 years and has never deviated from its
original approval. He stated that the setback and total
surface area was in compliance with all existing ordinances in
the late 60's.
Mr. Curley stated he had met with Planner Uban and City staff
to discuss the existing ordinance requirements. He stated
that his parcel is the only parcel in this area zoned B-3. He
stated the other parcels, located on both sides of his
property, are zoned B-2. He stated that he is looking to be
grandfathered as a legal, non-conforming use.
Curley further stated that he does not believe there was a
variance on the original sign. He stated that he does not
intend on enlarging the sign and that he will be replacing the
plastic sign panels used by Ethan Allen with Curley Furniture
advertisement. He reminded the Commission that the Curley's
own this building and that the use will remain as a furniture
store.
Commissioner Koll stated there has never been any complaints
regarding the sign. She further stated that in all fairness,
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 6
why restrict Mr. Curley from placing his signage on an
existing stand. She further cited information from Section
4.3(8) and (9) regarding existing, non-conforming uses.
Commissioner Koll moved to recommend that, based on the
existing conditions found on the site, the City Council
approve the sign as an existing non-conforming use.
Commissioner Friel seconded the motion.
AYES: 7
NAYS: 0
Commissioner Koll stated, as per staff's December 14, 1994
memorandum to Council, that the triple fee charge is
inappropriate.
CONTINUED HEARING:
CASE NO. 94-36:
SALMEN -
SUBDIVISION/LOT SPLIT AND
VARIANCE TO LOT FRONTAGE
Administrative Assistant Batchelder informed the Planning
Commission that Mr. Salmen, of 1694 Dodd Road, informed him on
Monday, that he is willing to dedicate a utility easement. He
stated that Mr. Salmen indicated that he is unwilling to
provide a turnaround and public street. Batchelder stated
that Mr. Salmen verbally asked to continue the public hearing
to February 28, 1995. Batchelder stated that Mr. Salmen is
looking for direction from the Planning Commission.
Batchelder informed the Commission that staff could summarize
the Planning Commission minutes and send a letter to Mr.
Salmen.
Commissioner Friel stated that Mr. Salmen had requested a lot
split and would not commit to an easement and he had no plans
to do anything with the land. He stated without Mr. Salmen
specifically giving information on his intentions of
subdividing his lot, the Planning Commission is hard pressed
to review the request particularly if other land owners could
be impacted or would want to subdivide as well.
Chair Dwyer stated that the Planning Commission has already
given Mr. Salmen direction. Commissioner Duggan stated that
he now has concerns with long term development in the area and
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 7
how Mr. Salmen's request may affect the development. He
further noted concerns regarding impact of building pad on the
site, street grade and appropriate turnaround.
Chair Dwyer moved to continue the hearing, as per Mr. Saimen's
request, to February 28, 1995 at 7:45 o'clock P.M.
Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion.
AYES: 7
NAYS: 0
CONTINUED HEARING:
CASE NO. 94-40:
BJORKLUND DEVELOPMENT COMPANY -
SUBDIVISION
Chair Dwyer explained that the Planning Commission conducted
a public hearing at their December meeting to consider an
application from Bjorklund Development Company to develop the
Swanson property into seven (7) large single family lots on 6
1/2 acres. He explained that the hearing was continued to
allow the developer time to address eleven (11) concerns
raised by the Planning Commission and neighborhood. Chair
Dwyer stated that the Planning Commission wants to be sure and
look at how this development fits into adjacent undeveloped
parcels of land. He stated the Planning Commission is
concerned about the future development of this area.
Chair Dwyer stated the Planning Commission is faced with a
dilemma in that the Bjorklund's have responded to the Planning
Commission's request by revising and submitting site and
grading plans. He stated that adjacent property owners are
not yet ready to develop their land and the Commission does
not want to adversely impact their properties. He stated the
Commission does not want to landiock future developments.
Mr. Paul McGinley, of McLagan and Sons Surveying, and Mr. Dick
Bjorklund, Jr., were present to discuss this request.
Commissioner Friel inquired if all of the proposals are
consistent with the Lexington Avenue access to the Swanson
development. Mr. McGinley responded yes. Commissioner Tilsen
stated he disagrees. Chair Dwyer inquired if Sketch E is
consistent with the agreement with the Rolf's. Mr. McGinley
responded that the Rolf's and Illetscko's are strongly opposed
to a street going through their property. He stated they are
in favor of a cul-de-sac. He explained that the Olin's have
presented a plan indicating a scheme that works with a cul-de-
sac. He stated that the Olin cul-de-sac, as shown on Sketch
E, is about 650 feet long. Mr. McGinley stated that all
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 8
landowners seem to be in favor of Sketch E as it benefits
everybody. Mr. McGinley explained that Sketch D shows how
Sketch E can be made a through street.
Commissioner Friel inquired if there is anything about the
Swanson cul-de-sac that makes other properties undevelopable.
Mr. McGinley responded no. Friel stated that the Olin's and
Illetscko's can still proceed with development in the future.
Commissioner Tilsen stated that the only other option
available is to continue along the Swanson/Rolf lot line to
the Olin property. He stated that Plan D has a steep road
section at the intersection. He stated that the grading plans
need to be fine tuned to accommodate any intersections. He
stated he would like to see a horizontal ("T") intersection
rather than a curved intersection.
With regards to sewer and water easements, Mr. McGinley stated
that they have shown these easements on the plans and that
they will rely on the City's engineering department for any
other direction. Public Works Director Danielson stated that
the easements have been properly addressed and that the
Engineering Department will continue to modify the plans where
appropriate. Commissioner Duggan noted his concern regarding
the ponding of water across Orchard and wondered if there have
been provisions designed for overflow. Public Works Director
Danielson responded that the water will cross over Lexington
Avenue to another pond where it will be piped off. He further
stated that these easements have been shown on the map
satisfactorily.
Chair Dwyer stated that the City has concerns about protecting
trees and that a conservation easement was requested. Mr.
McGinley stated that the Planning Commission was concerned
that no lots will be divided in the future. Chair Dwyer
inquired what Bjorklund Development will do to protect the
trees. Mr. McGinley stated that each site will be
individually graded. He stated that grading restrictions will
be detailed on each site plan. Chair Dwyer inquired if the
Planning Commission is going to retain jurisdiction over
approval of individual grading of lots. Mr. McGinley stated
that the street construction will be limited to grading
restrictions. Mr. Bjorklund stated the intent of the
development is to save trees but individual tress will have to
come out for homes. He stated that they need flexibility to
position the houses. Mr. Bjorklund stated that all grading
will be done according to the grading plans.
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 9
In response to Chair Dwyer's question regarding slope
protection Easements, Mr. McGinley stated that the grading is
intended to follow the street and utilities with individual
house grading. He stated that mass grading will not occur
outside the street area.
Commissioner Betlej inquired if Lots 1, 2 and 3 have slopes
greater than 18 percent and how these will be graded. Mr.
McGinley stated that the City's Ordinance prevents this type
of construction and no building permit will be issued. The
Planning Commission felt that no easements are necessary for
slope protection as the City's Ordinance restricts this type
of development.
Chair Dwyer confirmed that the right-of-ways have been
redesigned to sixty feet (60').
Chair Dwyer acknowledged receipt of a January 19, 1995 letter
from the Bjorklund's and the Rolf's regarding their good faith
negotiations to resolve the thirty foot (30°) right-of-way on
the Rolf property for the new road leading into the new
"Swanson property subdivision". Chair Dwyer informed the
Commission that the Bjorklund's and Rolf's intend to resolve
this issue before the City Council meeting.
Commissioner Duggan inquired about how many remaining trees
will be protected during the development process. Mr.
McGinley responded that a silt fence and yellow marking tape
will be placed where appropriate. Mr. Bjorklund stated that
a snow fence will be provided.
With regards to a landscape easement on Lot 4 protecting the
lilac hedge, Mr. McGinley stated that this easement will be
shown on the plat. He further stated that setbacks for Lots
5 and 6 will be shown on the plans.
Chair Dwyer opened the meeting to the public.
Mr. Stephan Rolf, of 1861 South Lexington Avenue, stated that
they are in the process of working with the Bjorklund's in
trying to resolve the right-of-way issue. Chair Dwyer
inquired how the Bjorklund proposal will affect future
development of the Rolf property. Mr. Rolf stated that they
would like to see a cul-de-sac in this area. He stated that
the Bjorklund's present an attractive plan and seem to
indicate preservation of trees.
In response to a question from Chair Dwyer regarding future
development plans, Mr. Rolf stated that they were considering
developing small lots but, now that they have seen the
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 10
Bjorklund plans, they may consider larger lots. He stated
they are looking for advice on how to develop their land.
In response to a question from Commissioner Lorberbaum, Mr.
Rolf stated that he is uncomfortable with the "Staff Concept
Plan" in that their road is too close to his existing
property. He stated a lot of traffic could be generated and
he does not want to see that happen. Mr. Rolf stated that
with the construction of the Swanson cul-de-sac, he
anticipates development of other parcels in the future.
Mr. David Olin, 1136 Orchard Place, stated his family
submitted the long cul-de-sac option to the Planning
Commission as a concept plan. He further stated that the
southside of their property is a hill and not a bluff. He
further stated that his family submitted a plan showing access
through the wetlands to Hunter Lane. He stated that he feels
this concept could work. Commissioner Tilsen explained the
State's Wetlands restrictions indicating it would be unlikely.
Olin stated that access off of Lexington Avenue is the
preferred concept idea and that a long cul-de-sac is also an
option.
Mr. Ralph Nordstrom, 1139 Orchard Place, inquired about the
length of a cul-de-sac. Commissioner Friel stated that the
City prefers to see cul-de-sac lengths no more than 500 feet.
Mr. Nordstrom stated that he does not want to see a large
amount of traffic on Orchard Place. He further stated that
the longer a cul-de-sac, the more traffic will be generated
down his street.
Commissioner Koll inquired who will construct and maintain the
monument sign. Mr. McGinley responded that Dave Bjorklund had
proposed a landscape island to distinguish the development and
not a monument sign. Commissioner Tilsen stated it would be
difficult for the City to maintain. Mr. Bjorklund responded
that they will rely on City recommendation. Mr. Bjorklund
stated that he will discuss this issue with his brother.
Chair Dwyer moved to close the public hearing.
Commissioner Betlej seconded the motion.
AYES: 7
NAYS: 0
Commissioner Tilsen inquired about the appropriate grade
percentage for the proposed intersection. Public Works
Director Danielson stated intersections should have a flat
landing so that vehicles do not skid out into the middle of
the intersection. He stated that he does not feel strongly
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 11
about having a perpendicular intersection as long as sight
distances are good. He stated that the proposed intersection
allows for future development.
Public Works Director Danielson stated that City requires 811
watermains.
Commissioner Friel moved to recommend that the City Council
approve the preliminary plat conditioned upon the following:
1. The plat showing additional right-of-way dedication on
Lot 7.
2. That sewer/water easements be shown on plans.
3. That the retention pond easement be included on the
plans.
4. That a Conservation Easement document be submitted to the
City Council.
5, That Slope Protection Easements be shown on the plans.
6. That custom grading of each individual lot be shown on
the plans.
7. That right-of-ways be sixty feet (60').
8. Formal notification that the Rolf's and Bjorklund's agree
to a thirty foot (30') right-of-way on the Rolf property
for the new road leading into the new "Swanson property
subdivision".
9. The plans reflect tree preservation measures.
10. Show landscape easement along Lot 4 protecting the lilac
hedge.
11. That specific home setbacks for Lots 5 and 6 be
identified on the plans.
Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion.
Commissioner Lorberbaum inquired if the center island should
be eliminated from the plans. Mr. McGinley stated that he
would like to leave this idea until he is able to confer with
Dave Bjorklund.
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 12
VOTE ON MOTION:
AYES: 7
NAYS: 0
Commissioner Friel commended the developer's efforts in
presenting a development that takes into consideration future
development opportunities.
Chair Dwyer called a recess at 9:30 o'clock P.M.
Chair Dwyer reconvened the meeting at 9:36 o'clock P.M.
CONTINUED HEARING:
CRITICAL AREA OVERLAY DISTRICT -
ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
Chair Dwyer explained that this item had been before the
Planning Commission in December. He explained that the
Commission directed Planner Uban to submit language defining
Substantial Alteration.
A brief discussion ensued regarding the definition of
substantial and whether it includes the removal of other
amenities.
Chair Dwyer moved to close the public hearing.
Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion.
AYES: 7
NAYS: 0
Commissioner Friel moved to recommend that the City Council
approve the following amendments to the Critical Area.
Ordinance:
Section 2.3.0 - Modifications
C. Modifications. In the case of a minor development and/or
change involving a single family dwelling, and if the site
plans conform to the standards of the Critical Area Overlay
District Ordinance, the City Administrator shall bring the
request to the attention of the City Council at its next
regular meeting following receipt of an application for
Critical Area Ordinance consideration. The City Council shall
review such request and may, if it so determines, exempt the
applicant from complying with any inappropriate requirements
of this Ordinance.
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 13
1. Exceptions:
a. Movement of earth, by grading, which results in a
cut or fill in excess of five feet (5°) at any
point on the subject property.
b. When development of the property will result in the
substantial alteration of grade or removal of
natural vegetation, trees, shrubs, rock
outcroppings, water course, or scenic amenities.
Section 1.4 Definitions
g.
Substantial Alteration - Earth work that involves
100 or more bank (in situ) cubic yards of fill
materials for the excavation, filling, grading,
shaping, moving, soil correction, or general soil
disruptions for the purpose of making improvements
to the property or facilitating development of the
property is allowed, with review by the Planning
Commission and City Council, found to be in keeping
with the goals, policies, and general intent of the
City, and found to be in compliance with all
applicable City, County, State or Federal
regulations. Earth work that involves less than
100 bank (in situ) cubic yards for excavation,
filling, grading, shaping, moving, or general soil
disruption is allowed by the City, with review by
the City Council, only when all work is performed
consistent with City goals and policies. Bank
material are those soils found in their natural
undisturbed condition.
h. Vegetation - All plant growth including trees,
shrubs, mosses, and grasses.
Section 2.5 - Building Below the Bluff
a. No development shall be permitted on slopes between
125k and 409r, or below the bluffline to the
Mississippi River unless the applicant shall prove
that the following conditions are met.
Chair Dwyer stated that with this particular amendment to the
Ordinance, the Planning Commission will review any building
home with a basement.
Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion.
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 14
AYES: 7
NAYS: 0
DISCUSSION ON ATHLETIC STADIUMS
Chair Dwyer explained that the City Council directed the
Commission to look at the issue of Athletic Stadiums in
Residential areas. He explained that the Commission discussed
this item in December and directed Planner Uban to return to
their January meeting with a draft Ordinance.
In response to a question from Chair Dwyer, Planner Uban
stated that portable restroom facilities may be located within
a permanent structure. He further stated that the building
code provides for ratio of restroom facilities available on
site.
Commissioner Friel suggested that Section 21.6(6) Restrooms.
should include "Permanent restroom facilities are required.
In the alternative portable facilities may be used if located
in a well designed permanent structure".
Commissioner Duggan inquired if Sections 21.6(2)a and 21.6(2)c
are repetitious, the Commission noted that Section 21.6(2)a
regulates direct light beams and Section 21.6(2)c regulates
reflected light beams. Commissioner Friel stated that if
there is a nuisance or hazardous lighting, it will be required
to be shielded.
Commissioner Friel stated that the location of a stadium
within 350 feet of a residential area is too close and
suggested that 600 feet would be more appropriate.
Commissioner Friel stated that not only is lighting a nuisance
but noise is as well.
Chair Dwyer directed Planner Uban to define an Athletic
Stadium.
Commissioner Duggan suggested that Planner Uban incorporate
the requirement of fencing to be restricted to black vinyl
clad.
Commissioner Tilsen inquired if the Commission would have an
opportunity to review and comment on specific building
materials of a stadium. Commissioner Friel stated that the
Commission should address stadia in every district by
Conditional Use Permit. Planner Uban stated the Commission
should consider keeping this ordinance general.
Planning Commission
January 24, 1995
Page 15
The Planning Commission tabled discussion on Athletic Stadiums
to allow Planner Uban time to prepare information on the
definition of Athletic Stadiums, determine decibel level of
noise, including licensing and to revise the proposed
ordinance with changes to Sections 21.6(6), and 21.6(7) and to
add Section 21.6(9) to include black vinyl clad fencing.
DISCUSS TREE PRESERVATION
Planner Uban explained that he used the Bjorklund Subdivision
as an example in applying the City of Burnsville and City of
Eden Prairies's tree preservation ordinances. Chair Dwyer
inquired about the cost to the developer. Planner Uban stated
that under the Burnsville ordinance there would be no cost to
the developer and that the plan does not trigger a permit
because less than thirty percent (30%) of the crown cover is
being lost. He stated that Eden Prairie's Ordinance would
require the developer to plant 140 trees with a $25,000 to
$30,000 expense.
Planner Uban stated that, as currently proposed, Mendota
Heights will also address existing homes and developments. He
stated the ordinance will need to discuss exemptions and
replacement of trees. Commissioner Duggan stated that the
City should consider its two private golf courses and public
course with respect to giving them the flexibility in
reshaping their courses.
Planner Uban stated he would prepare a draft ordinance and
present it to the Commission at their February meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Planning Commission moved
to adjourn their meeting at 10:30 o'clock P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Kimberlee K. Blaeser
Senior Secretary