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1995-10-24 Planning Comm MinutesThe regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Planning Commission was held on Tuesday, October 24, 1995, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Victoria Curve. The meeting was called to order at 7:34 o'clock P.M. The following members were present: Dwyer, Betlej, Lorberbaum and Tilsen. Commissioners Koll and Duggan were excused. Commissioner Friel was absent. Also present were Public Works Director Jim Danielson, Planning Consultant John Uban, Administrative Assistant Kevin Batchelder and Senior Secretary Kim Blaeser. Commissioner Tilsen moved approval. of the September 26, 1995 minutes. Commissioner Betlej seconded the motion. AYES: 4 NAYS: 0 �; ,. •: 11AT11114410111111111UT 14 141•: „ • • The Commission acknowledged receipt of an October 10, 1995 letter from City staff to Mr. John Mathern of Mendota Homes. The Commission noted that City staff sent the letter informing .Mr. Mathern that his application for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment, a Rezoning and a Subdivision for the property known as Tuminelly's Carmen Court was considered incomplete and that it will not be placed on the Planning Commission's agenda until such time as a complete application has been submitted prior to the deadline for that month's meeting. CONTINUED HEARING CASE NO. 95-36: SALMEN - SUBDIVISION AND VARIANCE Chair Dwyer explained that Mr. and Mrs. Robert Salmen, of 1694 Dodd Road, applied for a lot division and variance on October 31, 1994. He explained that at the November 1994 meeting, the Commission conducted a iI public hearing and continued the hearing to allow the Salmen's time to address several concerns. Dwyer explained that Mr. Salmen has been unable to address these concerns due to health reasons and that the Planning Commission has continued the public hearing in February, May and August. Commissioner Lorberbaum moved to close the public hearing on Case No. 94-36 - Salmen Subdivision and Variance to Lot Frontage and tabling any action on the request until such time as renewed public hearings can be announced by published and mailed notice. Commissioner Betlej seconded the motion. The Commission directed staff to notify Mr. and Mrs. Salmen that the public hearing has been closed and that this puts the application on an indefinite hold until such time as Mr. Salmen can respond. HEARKGS: CAO NO. 95-05: STROH ' CRITICAL AREA SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CRITICAL AREA HEIGHT VARIANCF- Mr. Bernie Stroh, owner of 1128 Sibley Memorial Highway, was present to discuss his request for a Critical Area Site Plan Review and Critical Area Height Variance which would allow the construction of a single family house. Mr. Stroh explained that he has owned this property for eight years. Stroh stated that the property is heavily wooded and steep and that it has been difficult to design a home for this site. Stroh stated that he is attempting to minimize site impacts by stacking the traditional elements of a home ,to step up the sloping terrain. He informed the Commission that he had considered constructing a house with a larger footprint and also constructing a house with a detached garage. He stated that he wants to keep the site as natural as possible and that he will be able to do so by constructing a house which will be two stories of living area above a basement which then has a garage tucked underneath it. He stated that this creates a building profile that is interpreted as at least three stories with a front walkout condition. Mr. Stroh explained that by constructing the house on piers, less vegetation will be disturbed. Planner Uban informed Mr. Stroh that a Conditional Use Permit would be required should he decide to construct a detached garage. Commissioner Tilsen noted that Mr. Stroh intends'to construct a flat roof K which will lower the impact of sight lines. Mr. Stroh stated that a pitched roof design is not right for this area. In response to a question from Commissioner Tilsen regarding erosion control, Mr. Stroh stated that backfilling of the walls will occur right away. He explained that backfilling along with the installation of tile at the base of the wall will divert water from the structure which will be positioned at an angle. Commissioner Tilsen suggested that extra protection such as hay bail dikes be considered. Mr. Stroh stated he intends to contact a landscape architect to help with further ideas of erosion control. Commissioner Tilsen noted that Mr. Stroh is proposing to use an existing bituminous driveway that serves his neighbor's property across Mr. Stroh's front yard. Mr. Stroh explained that this lot was created through a subdivision which was approved in 1988. He stated that proper easements are in place for the use this existing driveway. He stated that because there is an existing driveway, there will be no need for a curb cut approval by the State or for a driveway permit issued by the City. Commissioner Tilsen inquired if there are any utility, sewer, water and drainage concerns. Public Works Director Danielson stated no. Commissioner Lorberbaum inquired about landscaping. Mr. Stroh stated he would like to leave the site natural. He stated that he would be installing more trees. In response to a question from Chair Dwyer, Mr. Stroh stated that the proposed house will be 2,80®' square feet. Chair Dwyer pointed out that the proposed house will be tucked into the hill and that it will not obstruct the view from the top of the bluff line. In response to a question from Commissioner Betlej, Mr. Stroh explained that the water will be diverted and flow under the driveway. Commissioner Betlej stated that a snow fence should be installed to help protect the existing vegetation. Mr. Stroh agreed. Chair Dwyer opened the meeting to the public. Peggy O'Reilly, of 1132 Sibley Memorial Highway, informed the Commission she owns the lot adjacent to Mr. Stroh and that she too has a copy of the easement. She noted her concern for the size of the proposed home compared to the lot size. Ms. O'Reilly stated her -concern for the design of the home and whether it will blend in with the existing, older style rambler homes in the neighborhood. She noted her concerns for sharing the K driveway in that it is rather steep in areas. She suggested that the driveway be continued in a horseshoe design. She further inquired about the time line for construction. She noted that some erosion occurred last year when Mr. Stroh removed some trees. Mr. Stroh stated he anticipates construction to begin this winter. Mr. Dave Plum, of 1751 Lexington Avenue, stated that he has a very steep backyard which looks down to Mr. Stroh's property. He noted his concern for the design of the house but stated he does not believe his signt lines will be affected. He stated that there is property owned by the City of Lilydale which abuts Mr. Stroh's property. He inquired if the City of Lilydale has been contacted about the proposed development. Planner Uban stated that the property is considered a preserve. Mr. Plum inquired if a trail will be installed. Planner Uban stated no. Mr. Plum noted that there was a possibility that smoke condensation from Mr. Stroh's house during winter months may block his view of the bluff line. Mr. Ralph Gram, resident of Mendota Heights for many years, noted his concern for his view of the bluff and that he would like to see Mr. Stroh's house blend with the existing, neighborhood. He briefed the Commission on past soil conditions in the area. He suggested Mr. Stroh consider additional soil testing. George Milliman, 1140 Sibley Memorial Highway, asked to review Mr. Stroh's plans. Mr. Milliman had no comment. Commissioner Lorberbaum moved to close the public hearing. Chair Dwyer seconded the motion following his review' of the plans. In response to a question from Commissioner Betlej, Public Works Director Danielson stated that the Code Enforcement Department enforces construction time lines. Commissioner Tilsen inquired about soil boring tests. Mr. Stroh stated he intends on getting more borings and that he is very sensitive to erosion concerns. Mr. Stroh explained that there is extremely hard soil six feet down and that piers can be installed. Commissioner Betlej moved to recommend that City Council approve the Critical Area Site Plan and a height variance to allow a three story houses, as proposed subject to the following conditions: 0 1 That additional soil borings, grading and erosion control plans be submitted for Code Enforcement review. 2. That drainage plans showing the drainage under the driveway be submitted for Code Enforcement review. 3. That a plant restoration plan be submitted for Code Enforcement review. 4. That a snow fence to protect existing trees be included on the plans. Commissioner Tilsen seconded the motion. Administrative Assistant Batchelder offered City staff assistance to Mr. Stroh to assist in fulfilling the Commission's conditions prior to City Council review. CASE NO. 95-06: SARGENT- CRITICAL AREA SITE PLAN REVIE K ARIANC FRONT YARD SETBACj, V Mr. and Mrs. James Sargent, of 1040 Sibley Memorial Highway, were present to discuss their request for Critical Area Site Plan Review, Front Yard Setback Variance and Building Height Variance which would allow the replacement of an existing detached garage with an attached garage and living space addition. In response to a question from Commissioner Tilsen regarding location of the existing garage, Ms. Sargent explained that the garage is located on the second lot. She stated that they own both lots. She stated that at this point in time, they do not intend to develop the second parcel. Commissioner Tilsen inquired about lot frontage and where the backyard is determined. Planner Uban stated that he was not aware that the Sargent's owned the lot south of their lot. He stated that they do have two front yards and that they will need to meet the front yard setback on the lot that is the narrowest, which is on Highway 13. He stated that to minimize the grading, the Sargent's are taking appropriate measures by creating a higher structure which will be tucked into the slope. Commissioner Lorberbaum inquired about landscaping and the existing garage. Ms. Sargent explained that the garage 'will be demolished after the City approves their request. She explained that by demolishing the garage, their backyard will be much larger. She stated that the demolition will most likely occur next summer. 9 Commissioner Lorberbaum noted her concern for the possibility of damaging tree roots during the demolition and construction process. Mr. Sargent explained that some trees will be removed and transplanted. He stated that they do not intend on saving the forty foot Maple. Commissioner Betlej inquired about design alternatives. Ms. Sargent explained that other options had been reviewed. She explained that their utilities are located in the southwest corner of their house (in the cellar) and that this restricts them from constructing an addition to the north side of the house. Commissioner Betlej inquired about the roof pitch and if the Sargent's considered other alternatives. Mr. Sargent stated that other designs have been reviewed and that the alternatives would be too expensive. He explained that the existing pitch will be lifted to match the new addition. The Commission discussed the location of the driveway and how it could be flattened. Chair Dwyer opened the meeting to the public. There was no one present to discuss this request. Chair Dwyer moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner Betlej seconded the motion. Commissioner Tilsen inquired about retaining walls. Mr. Sargent stated there might be a small wall next to the garage. Commissioner Betlej moved to recommend that the City Council approve the Sargent Critical Area Modified Site Plan, a front yard setback variance of 6.62 feet and a 4 Y2 foot height variance to allow the proposed garage/living space addition subject to following condition: 1. That the driveway be moved to the south so that its slope not exceed three percent (3%). Chair Dwyer seconded the motion. AYES: 4 NAYS: 0 M. CASE NO. 95-29: PLATH - REAR YARD SETBACK VARIANCE SETBACK TO POOL VARIANCE Mr. Roger Plath, of 721 Pontiac Place, was present to discuss his request for a rear yard setback variance and a setback to a pool variance which would allow the construction of a 14 foot by 25 foot three season porch on the rear of his home. Mr. Plath submitted revised drawings for Commission review. He thanked Commissioners Betlej and Lorberbaum for visiting the site. Mr. Plath explained that he has reduced the size of the porch addition to 13 feet by 26 feet which would then give a twenty nine foot rear yard setback. He explained that the addition will sit at a 45 degree angle between the pool and patio. Mr. Plath explained that he has decreased the size of the structure which would then create an eight foot separation between the pool and the corner of the proposed structure. He explained that he can not move the addition over towards the garage as there is a back door which serves as the only entrance to the back of his house. Chair Dwyer stated that all signatures of consent have been received. Chair Dwyer moved to recommend that the City Council grant a one foot rear yard setback variance and a two foot pool setback variance to allow construction of a 13 foot by 26 foot three season porch addition. as shown on revised plans. Commissioner Lorberbaum seconded the motion and noted that there was a practical difficulty with the size of the lot and the home's original front yard setback of thirty-four feet (34'). U744m, . 4 �-@ Fllllllll� The Commission acknowledged receipt of'the Proposed Athletic Stadium Ordinance. Commissioner Lorberbaum inquired, as per Section 21.6(2)e, if license forms have been drafted. Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated no and that forms could be drafted for Council to review at the time they consider adopting the proposed ordinance. 0 The Commission discussed minor grammatical and punctuation changes. Commissioner Lorberbaum moved to recommend that the City Council adopt the Athletic Stadium Ordinance. Commissioner Betlej seconded the motion. r-IU43y, a shyl [40 W The Commission acknowledged receipt of a memo from Administrative Assistant Batchelder regarding City Council i3ction on proposed ordinance amendments. Parks Project Manager Guy Kullander was present, to discuss with the Planning Commission, at the request of the City Council, a resident's request for a safer pedestrian crossing of Trunk Highway 110 at Dodd Road. Kullander explained that Council is has directed staff to inform the Parks and Recreation Commission and Planning Commission of this pending project and to include comments from the Commissioners in the final project outline which will be presented to Council on November 7. Kullander explained that the Dodd Road and Highway 110 intersection is the only crossing that provides north/south access for the majority of Mendota Heights residents. Kullander explained'that staff reviewed the existing Dodd Road traffic patterns, traffic control measures including signals, paint markings, striping, signage and existing efforts to enable pedestrian and cyclists to more safely travel Dodd Road from Wagon Wheel Trail north to Marie Avenue. He explained that this study area was chosen because six to eight foot wide shoulders already exist on both sides of Dodd Road north of Marie Avenue and south of Wagon Wheel Trail. Kullander explained that pedestrians and cyclists can reasonably navigate a paved six to eight foot wide shoulder unless the' shoulder disappears into a turn lane and no additional paved area or off street walk is provided. He stated that the disappearing shoulder occurs on Dodd Road at Decorah, north of Mendakota Drive and continues north of Highway 110 beyond the Oasis Market where the paved shoulders reappear. He stated the same condition occurs north and south of Marie Avenue. Kullander explained a full redesign and reconstruction of this stretch of Dodd Road would provide improved conditions for pedestrians. Kullander explained that the Council will be asked to pass a resolution requesting funding for this project from MnDOT out of their Cooperative Construction Agreements Program. Kullander stated that the City's portion of the costs could come from the TIF District and Special Park Fund. The Commission discussed the possibility of having a trail on both sides of Dodd Road. Kullander explained that a trail already exists on the Decorah side and he explained how pedestrians arrive at a specific destination (such as Mendota Plaza). Commissioner Betlej stated that it is a good idea that a trail be kept on one side of the road and that the density of households seems to dictate the trail placement to be on the east side of Dodd Road. The Commission discussed sight lines at South Plaza Drive and Dodd Road and that a traffic light should be installed at this intersection. Kullander explained MnDOT warrants. Commissioner Tilsen suggested that the City should propose an "ultimate" plan for a trail system which could include connecting the existing trails with proposed trails in the Dakota County system. Commissioner Lorberbaum stated she would like to see a traffic light installed at the intersection of Dodd Road and South Plaza Drive. DISCUSS RESCHEDULING OR CANCELING THE DECEMBER PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING The Commission was of the consensus to discuss this matter at their November meeting. There being no further business, the Planning Commission moved to adjourn its meeting at 9:50 o'clock P.M. Respectfully submitted, Kimberlee K. Blaeser Senior Secretary I - *01,-142M M R The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Planning Commission was held on Tuesday, October 24, 1995, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Victoria Curve. The meeting was called to order at 7:34 o'clock P.M. The following members were present: Dwyer, Betlej, Lorberbaum and Tilsen. Commissioners Koll and Duggan were excused. Commissioner Friel was absent. Also present were Public Works Director Jim Danielson, Planning Consultant John Llban, Administrative Assistant Kevin Batchelder and Senior Secretary Kim Blaeser. Commissioner Tilsen moved approval of the September 26, 1995 minutes. Commissioner Betlej seconded the motion. The Commission acknowledged receipt of an October 10, 1995 letter from City staff to Mr. John Mathern of Mendota Homes. The Commission noted that City staff sent the letter informing Mr. Mathern that his application for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment, a Rezoning and a Subdivision for the property known as Tuminelly's Carmen Court was considered incomplete and that it will not be placed on the Planning Commission's agenda until such time as a complete application has been submitted prior to the deadline for that month's meeting. CONTINUED HEARING CASE NO. 95-36: SALMEN - SUBDIVISION AND VARIANCE Chair Dwyer explained that Mr. and Mrs. Robert Saimen, of 1694 Dodd Road, applied for a lot division and variance on October 31, 1994. He explainedthat at the November 1994 meeting, the Commission conducted a E public hearing and continued the hearing to allow the Salmen's time to address several concerns. Dwyer explained that Mr. Salmen has been unable to address these concerns due to health reasons and that the Planning Commission has continued the public hearing in February, May and August. Commissioner Lorberbaum moved to close the public hearing on Case No. 94-36 - Salmen Subdivision and Variance to Lot Frontage and tabling any action on the request until such time as renewed public hearings can be announced by published and mailed notice. Commissioner Betlej seconded the motion. The Commission directed staff to notify Mr. and Mrs. Salmen that the public hearing has been closed and that this puts the application on an indefinite hold until such time as Mr. Salmen can respond. HEARINGS: CAO O. 95-05: STROH - CRITICAL AREA SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CRITICAL AREA HEIGHT VARIANCE Mr. Bernie Stroh, owner of 1128 Sibley Memorial Highway, was present to discuss his request for a Critical Area Site Plan Review and Critical Area Height Variance which would allow the construction of a single family house. Mr. Stroh explained that he has owned this property for eight years. Stroh stated that the property is heavily wooded and steep and that it has been difficult to design a home for this site. Stroh stated that he is attempting to minimize site impacts by stacking the traditional elements of a home to step up the sloping terrain. He informed the Commission that he had considered constructing a house with a larger footprint and also constructing a house with a detached garage. He stated that he wants to keep the site as natural as possible and that he will be able to do so by constructing a house which will be two stories of living area above a basement which then has a garage tucked underneath it. He stated that this creates a building profile that is interpreted as at least three stories with a front walkout condition. Mr. Stroh explained that by constructing the house on piers, less vegetation will be disturbed. Planner Uban informed Mr. Stroh that a Conditional Use Permit would be required should he decide to construct a detached garage. Commissioner Tilsen noted that Mr. Stroh intends to construct a flat roof 2 which will lower the impact of sight lines. Mr. Stroh stated that a pitched roof design is not right for this area. In response to a question from Commissioner Tilsen regarding erosion control, Mr. Stroh stated that backfilling of the walls will occur right away. He explained that backfilling along with the installation of the at the base of the wall will divert water from the structure which will be positioned at an angle. Commissioner Tilsen suggested that extra protection such as hay bail dikes be considered. Mr. Stroh stated he intends to contact a landscape architect to help with further ideas of erosion control. Commissioner Tilsen noted that Mr. Stroh is proposing to use an existing bituminous driveway that serves his neighbor's property across Mr. Stroh's front yard. Mr. Stroh explained that this lot was created through a subdivision which was approved in 1988. He stated that proper easements are in place for the use this existing driveway. He stated that because there is an existing driveway, there will be no need for a curb cut approval by the State or for a driveway permit issued by the City. Commissioner Tilsen inquired if there are any utility, sewer, water and drainage concerns. Public Works Director Danielson stated no. Commissioner Lorberbaum inquired about landscaping. Mr. Stroh stated he would like to leave the site natural. He stated that he would be installing more trees. In response to a question from Chair Dwyer, Mr. Stroh stated that the proposed house will be 2,800 square feet. Chair Dwyer pointed out that the proposed house will be tucked into the hill and that it will not obstruct the view from the top of the bluff line. In response to a question from Commission ' er Betlej, Mr. Stroh explained that the water will be diverted and flow under the driveway. Commissioner Betlej stated that a snow fence should be installed to help protect the existing vegetation. Mr. Stroh agreed. Chair Dwyer opened the meeting to the public. Peggy O'Reilly, of 1132 Sibley Memorial Highway, informed the Commission she owns the lot adjacent to Mr. Stroh and that she too has a copy of the easement. She noted her concern for the size of the proposed home compared to the lot size. Ms. O'Reilly stated her concern for the design of the home and whether it will blend in with the existing, older style rambler homes in the neighborhood. She noted her concerns for sharing the 0 driveway in that it is rather steep in areas. She suggested that the driveway be continued in a horseshoe design. She further inquired about the time line for construction. She noted that some erosion occurred last year when Mr. Stroh removed some trees. Mr. Stroh stated he anticipates construction to begin this winter. Mr. Dave Plum, of 1751 Lexington Avenue, stated that he has a very steep backyard which looks down to Mr. Stroh's property. He noted his concern for the design of the house but stated he does not believe his sight lines will be affected. He stated that there is property owned by the City of Lilydale which abuts Mr. Stroh's property. He inquired if the City of Lilydale has been contacted about the proposed development. Planner Uban stated that the property is considered a preserve. Mr. Plum inquired if a trail will be installed. Planner Uban stated no. Mr. Plum noted that there was a possibility that smoke condensation from Mr. Stroh's house during winter months may block his view of the bluff line. Mr. Ralph Gram, resident of Mendota Heights for many years, noted his concern for his view of the bluff and that he would like to see Mr. Stroh's house blend with the existing neighborhood. He briefed the Commission on past soil conditions in the area. He suggested Mr. Stroh consider additional soil testing. George Milliman, 1140 Sibley Memorial Highway, asked to review Mr. Stroh's plans. Mr. Milliman had no comment. Commissioner Lorberbaum moved to close the public hearing. Chair Dwyer seconded the motion following his review of the plans. AYES: 4 NAYS: 0 In response to a question from Commissioner Betlej, Public Works Director Danielson stated that the Code Enforcement Department enforces construction time lines. Commissioner Tilsen inquired about soil boring tests. Mr. Stroh stated he intends on getting more borings and that he is very sensitive to erosion concerns. Mr. Stroh explained that there is extremely hard soil six feet down and that piers can be installed. Commissioner Betlej moved to recommend that City Council approve the Critical Area Site Plan and a height variance to allow a three story houses, as proposed subject to the following conditions: 9 1 That additional soil borings, grading and erosion control plans be submitted for Code Enforcement review. 2. That drainage plans showing the drainage under the driveway be submitted for Code Enforcement review. 3. That a plant restoration plan be submitted for Code Enforcement review. 4. That a snow fence to protect existing trees be included on the plans. Commissioner Tilsen seconded the motion. Administrative Assistant Batchelder offered City staff assistance to Mr. Stroh to assist in fulfilling the Commission's conditions prior to City Council review. CASE NO. 95-06: SARGENT- CRITICAL AREA SITE PLAN REVIEW FRONT YARD SETBACK VARIANCE BUILDING HEIGHT VARIANCE Mr. and Mrs. James Sargent, of 1040 Sibley Memorial Highway, were present to discuss their request for Critical Area Site Plan Review, Front Yard Setback Variance and Building Height Variance which would allow the replacement of an existing detached garage with an attached garage and living space addition. In response to a question from Commissioner Tilsen regarding location of the existing garage, Ms. Sargent explained that the garage is located on the second lot. She stated that they own both lots. She stated that at this point in time, they do not intend to develop the second parcel. Commissioner Tilsen inquired about lot frontage and where the backyard is determined. Planner Uban stated that he was not aware that the Sargent's owned the lot south of their lot. He stated that they do have two front yards and that they will need to meet the front yard setback on the lot that is the narrowest, which is on Highway 13. He stated that to minimize the grading, the Sargent's are taking appropriate measures by creating a higher structure which will be tucked into the slope. Commissioner Lorberbaum inquired about landscaping and the existing garage. Ms. Sargent explained that the garage will be demolished after the City approves their request. She explained that by demolishing the garage, their backyard will be much larger. She stated that the demolition will most likely occur next summer. 0 Commissioner Lorberbaum noted her concern for the possibility of damaging tree roots during the demolition and construction process. Mr. Sargent explained that some trees will be removed and transplanted. He stated that they do not intend on saving the forty foot Maple. Commissioner Betlej inquired about design alternatives. Ms. Sargent explained that other options had been reviewed. She explained that their utilities are located in the southwest corner of their house (in the cellar) and that this restricts them from constructing an addition to the north side of the house. Commissioner Betlej inquired about the roof pitch and if the Sargent's considered other alternatives. Mr. Sargent stated that other designs have been reviewed and that the alternatives would be too expensive. He explained that the existing pitch will be lifted to match the new addition. The Commission discussed the location of the driveway and how it could be flattened. Chair Dwyer opened the meeting to the public. There was no one present to discuss this request. Chair Dwyer moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner Betlej seconded the motion. Commissioner Tilsen inquired about retaining walls. Mr. Sargent stated there might be a small wall next to the garage. Commissioner Betlej moved to recommend that the City Council approve the Sargent Critical Area Modified Site Plan, a front yard setback variance of 6.62 feet and a 4 Y2 foot height variance to allow the proposed garage/living space addition subject to following condition: 1 That the driveway be moved to the south so that its slope not exceed three percent (3%). Chair Dwyer seconded the motion. EWRM MIUM CASE NO. 95-29: PLATH - REAR YARD SETBACK VARIANCE SETBACK TO POOL VARIANCE Mr. Roger Plath, of 721 Pontiac Place, was present to discuss his request for a rear yard setback variance and a setback to a pool variance which would allow the construction of a 14 foot by 25 foot three season porch on the rear of his home. Mr. Plath submitted revised drawings for Commission review. He thanked Commissioners Betlej and Lorberbaurn for visiting the site. Mr. Plath explained that he has reduced the size of the porch addition to 13 feet by 26 feet which would then give a twenty nine foot rear yard setback. He explained that the addition will sit at a 45 degree angle between the pool and patio. Mr. Plath explained that he has decreased the size of the structure which would then create an eight foot separation between the pool and the corner of the proposed structure. He explained that he can not move the addition over towards the garage as there is a back door which serves as the only entrance to the back of his house. Chair Dwyer stated that all signatures of consent have been received. Chair Dwyer moved to recommend that the City Council grant a one foot rear yard setback variance and a two foot pool setback variance to allow construction of a 13 foot by 26 foot three season porch addition as shown on revised plans. Commissioner Lorberbaurn seconded the motion and noted that there was a practical difficulty with the size of the lot and the home's original front yard setback of thirty-four feet (34'). DISCUSS PROPOSED ATHLETIC STADIUM ORDINANCE The Commission acknowledged receipt of the Proposed Athletic Stadium Ordinance. Commissioner Lorberbaum inquired, as per Section 21.6(2)e, if license forms have been drafted. Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated no and that forms could be drafted for Council to review at the time they consider adopting the proposed ordinance. 7 The Commission discussed minor grammatical and punctuation changes. Commissioner Lorberbaum moved to recommend that the City Council adopt the Athletic Stadium Ordinance. Commissioner Betlej seconded the motion. AYES: 4 NAYS: 0 "-J �!J rk T,OT I W-Tq ff - VA4 M40:11010TA40k , The Commission acknowledged receipt of a memo from Administrative Assistant Batchelder regarding City Council action on proposed ordinance amendments. Parks Project Manager Guy Kullander was present to discuss with the Planning Commission, at the request of the City Council, a resident's request for a safer pedestrian crossing of Trunk Highway 110 at Dodd Road. Kullander explained that Council is has directed staff to inform the Parks and Recreation Commission and Planning Commission of this pending project and to include comments from the Commissioners in the final project outline which will be presented to Council on November 7. Kullander explained that the Dodd Road and Highway 110 intersection is the only crossing that provides north/south access for the majority of Mendota Heights residents. Kullander explained that staff reviewed the existing Dodd Road traffic patterns, traffic control measures including signals, paint markings, striping, signage and existing efforts to enable pedestrian and cyclists to more safely travel Dodd Road from Wagon Wheel Trail north to Marie Avenue. He explained that this study area was chosen because six to eight foot wide shoulders already exist on both sides of Dodd Road north of Marie Avenue and south of Wagon Wheel Trail. Kullander explained that pedestrians and cyclists can reasonably navigate a paved six to eight foot wide shoulder unless the shoulder disappears into a turn lane and no additional paved area or off street walk is provided. He stated that the disappearing shoulder occurs on Dodd Road at Decorah, north of Mendakota Drive and continues north of Highway 110 beyond the Oasis Market where the paved shoulders reappear. He stated the same condition occurs north and south of Marie Avenue. L.*] Kullander explained a full redesign and reconstruction of this stretch of Dodd Road would provide improved conditions for pedestrians. Kullander explained that the Council will be asked to pass a resolution requesting funding for this project from MnDOT out of their Cooperative Construction Agreements Program. Kullander stated that the City's portion of the costs could come from the TIF District and Special Park Fund. The Commission discussed the possibility of having a trail on both sides of Dodd Road. Kullander explained that a trail already exists on the Decorah side and he explained how pedestrians arrive at a specific destination (such as Mendota Plaza). Commissioner Betlej stated that it is a good idea that a trail be kept on one side of the road and that the density of households seems to dictate the trail placement to be on the east side of Dodd Road. The Commission discussed sight lines at South Plaza Drive and Dodd Road and that a traffic light should be installed at this intersection. Kullander explained MnDOT warrants. Commissioner Tilsen suggested that the City should propose an "ultimate" plan for a trail system which could include connecting the existing trails with proposed trails in the Dakota County system. Commissioner Lorberbaum stated she would like to see a traffic light installed at the intersection of Dodd Road and South Plaza Drive. The Commission was of the consensus to discuss this matter at their November meeting. There being no further business, the Planning Commission moved to adjourn its meeting at 9:50 o'clock P.M. Respectfully submitted, Kimberlee K. Blaeser Senior Secretary