1994-04-26 Planning Comm MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
APRIL 26, 1994
The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Planning Commission was
held on Tuesday, April 26, 1994, 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,
Dwyer, Hunter, Duggan and Tilsen. Commissioner Dreelan was
excused. 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 Duggan moved to approve the March 22, 1994
minutes with corrections.
Commissioner Tilsen seconded the motion.
AYES: 4
NAYS: 0
( ABSTAIN: 2, KOLL, FRIEL
CASE NO. 94-10:
ARNDT -
VARIANCE
Chair Dwyer explained that Mr. Erich Arndt, of 2163 Aztec
Lane, is requesting a variance for front yard setback to allow
the construction of a garage to come within 13.5 feet of the
right-of-way of Aztec Lane. He further stated that Mr. Arndt
has received signatures of consent from his surrounding
neighbors.
Chair Dwyer stated that the Arndt's have explained, within
their Letter of Intent, that they are a foster family and that
because of their unique family requirements, it has been
difficult for them to fulfill their many family
responsibilities without having a garage to store vehicles and
supplemental equipment for their foster children.
Chair Dwyer stated that this home is located within Friendly
Hills area which, because of its small lots, has a general
City policy which allows for a 10 foot front yard setback
variance, specifically, to allow garages to be built in a
subdivision where many of the garages were converted to living
space or just did not have them to begin with.
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 2
Commissioner Hunter inquired if a car were parked outside of
the garage, would it extend into the right-of-way. Planner
Uban responded that yes it would, but it would not extend into
the street. Commissioner Tilsen inquired what the distance
from the right-of-way line to the new gutters would be should
street improvements be completed. Public Works Director
Danielson responded that blacktop streets are 30 feet wide and
with curb and gutter, 33 feet wide. Commissioner Tilsen
stated there would be a 8.5 foot boulevard should improvements
be completed.
Commissioner Duggan stated with the garage extension, the
grade of the driveway will have a slight drop. He suggested
that Mr. Arndt cooperate with the City Engineer in determining
a safer grade elevation. Mr. Arndt responded that he has
reviewed this problem and that there will be no problem in
reducing the grade.
In response to a question from Commissioner Friel, Planner
Uban and Mr. Arndt considered, hypothetically, the impact a
possible garage addition would have on his property should Mr.
Arndt's neighbor construct an addition. Mr. Arndt explained
that his neighbor, at this point in time, does not anticipate
adding a garage.
In response to a question from Commissioner Koll regarding
proposed landscaping, Mr. Arndt stated that his neighbor has
a maple tree which falls between his neighbor's house and the
proposed garage addition. He stated that this will help hide
the addition from the street. He further stated he has
planted two norway pines. He explained that one pine is right
in front of the garage addition. He stated he will plant the
same type of tree on the other side of the addition. He
further explained that he will plant some type of climbing
plant material to help soften the garage.
Mr. Arndt further explained that aluminum siding will be
placed on the garage addition and also on the front of the
house. He stated the remaining portion of the house will be
painted to match the aluminum siding. Arndt stated his
intentions, next year, will be to finish the entire house with
aluminum siding.
In response to a question from Commissioner Koll regarding the
existing arborvitae tree, Mr. Arndt stated he will remove this
plant as it has a tendency to grow into the house and cause
damage to his roof. He further stated it will seem out of
place with the new plant material. He also stated that his
neighbor has asked him to remove their arborvitae tree.
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 3
Commissioner Duggan suggested that Mr. Arndt consider placing
a window in the south side of the garage. Mr. Arndt responded
that, aesthetically, it would help soften the appearance of
the garage and that he would agree to including this
suggestion in his final plans.
Commissioner Tilsen inquired if Mr. Arndt had considered
placing the garage addition on the south end of the house.
Mr. Arndt responded yes, but that due to the location of the
bedrooms, it would have caused a fire safety hazard.
Commissioner Tilsen moved to recommend that the City Council
grant a 16.5 foot front yard variance to allow the
construction of a garage to come within 13.5 feet of the
right-of-way of Aztec Lane with the following conditions:
1. That Mr. Arndt work with the City's Engineer in
determining a better grade between the street and the
garage; and
2. That Mr. Arndt include a window on the south side of the
garage.
Commissioner Koll seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
HEARING:
CASE NO. 94-06:
NEWBERG -
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
Chair Dwyer explained that Mr. Douglas Newberg, of 721 Third
Avenue, is requesting a conditional use permit to allow the
construction of a screen porch. Chair Dwyer explained that
Mr. Newberg is proposing to replace an existing 400 square
foot screen porch that is falling into disrepair.
Commissioner Friel stated there are three non-conforming
structures on this property and that the ordinance allows only
for one. He stated that Mr. Newberg wishes to replace one of
those three non-conforming structures. He stated the number
of square feet exceeds the new ordinance. Commissioner Duggan
inquired if this proposal could be grandfathered in as it pre-
existed the new ordinance amendments. Commissioner Friel
stated that this is a policy issue and the City should
carefully consider granting a conditional use permit for a
request that exceeds accessory structures both in size and
number of structures.
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 4
Commissioner Tilsen inquired why this application is even
before the Planning Commission as the applicant only wants to
fix up the structure and he wondered if just a building permit
is necessary. Commissioner Friel stated that this a total
reconstruction. Planner Uban explained the non conforming
structure ordinance and noted the safeguards placed within the
ordinance to allow the maintenance of a building or other
structure containing or related to a lawful non-conforming
use.
In response to a question from Chair Dwyer, Mr. Newberg stated
the porch had been used by the previous owner. He stated he
bought this home in 1991 and that the former owner had lived
there since 1937. He stated the owner's husband passed away
and the building was left to rot.
Commissioner Friel stated the Planning Commission has no
reason to deny the request as long as the proposed use will
not be detrimental to the health, safety or general welfare of
the community, nor will cause serious traffic congestion nor
hazards, nor will seriously depreciate surrounding property
value, and is in harmony with the intent of the zoning
ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan (Zoning Ordinance No,
401, Section 5.6(5)).
Commissioner Duggan stated rebuilding the structure seems to
be the best choice. He further noted that the drawing
submitted is out of scale. He further inquired what the shed
is used for. Mr. Newberg stated the shed is used to store
lawnmowers and the garage stores one classic car and the
family vehicle.
In response to a question from Commissioner Koll regarding
landscaping, Mr. Newberg explained that he planted one pine
tree last year and there is an existing maple and pine tree on
the property. He further stated he will continue to plant
more tulips and ferns.
Mr. Newberg explained his intentions are to construct the
porch this year and install cedar siding next year when money
is available.
Commissioner Duggan inquired about the new home being
constructed next to Mr. Newberg's property. He stated it
seems that the location of the fire hydrant is close to the
entrance of the driveway and that someone could hit it.
Chair Dwyer opened the meeting to the public.
There was no one present to discuss this matter.
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 5
Commissioner Duggan moved to close the public hearing.
Commissioner Tilsen seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
Chair Dwyer stated that this will be an improvement to the
property and the request is consistent with the City's Zoning
Ordinance.
Commissioner Friel moved to recommend that the City Council
grant a conditional use permit which would allow the
reconstruction of 20' by 20° screen porch and that the City
Council should find that this structure is not detrimental to
the health, safety or general welfare of the community, nor
will cause serious traffic congestion nor hazards, nor will
seriously depreciate surrounding property, and that the same
is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the
Zoning Ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan.
Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
Mr. Newberg stated he has already invested a significant
amount of money into this project without even purchasing
materials and he inquired if he could get a refund of $635.00.
Chair Dwyer directed Mr. Newberg to inquire with the City
Council.
HEARING:
CASE NO. 94-07:
STEHR -
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
Chair Dwyer explained that Mr. James Stehr, of 1635 Dodd Road,
is requesting a conditional use permit to allow the
construction of a pigeon coop of approximately 480 square
feet. He explained that Mr. Stehr proposes to remove two
existing outbuildings and replace them with a new structure.
Mr. Stehr explained that the proposed size of the structure is
24' by 24'. He stated that the two buildings being removed
total 800 square feet. He stated the new structure is half
the size of old buildings combined. He further explained that
the height of the proposed building will be four feet lower
than the existing house. He also stated the exterior
materials will match the house.
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 6
Commissioner Duggan stated, with respect to future
development, that should a new house be constructed in the
back portion of the lot, it would be detrimental to the
character of the neighborhood. He stated that the conditional
use permit request seems to be reasonable.
Commissioner Koll stated that the neighborhood is aware of Mr.
Stehr's hobby and there have been no complaints. She stated
that Mr. Stehr has set a great example for the community with
his hobby.
Chair Dwyer opened the meeting to the public.
Mr. Charles Gillen, a neighbor, inquired where the structure
will be located. Mr. Stehr responded that his garage is 42
feet from the property line and that he would like to keep the
structure at least 20 feet from the garage. Mr. Stehr noted
his compliance with fire code regulations. Commissioner
Tilsen stated that the new dimensions should be presented to
the City Council,
Mr. Stehr stated the new structure may be 42 feet from the
property line. Commissioner Tilsen stated that the building
should be at least 42 feet from the property line and 20 feet
from the garage.
Ms. Francesca. Weber, a neighbor, stated that Mr. Stehr is a
caring individual and that he cares for his pigeons well. She
stated she has no complaints and supports the request..
Commissioner Duggan moved to close the public hearing.
Commissioner Tilsen seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS s 0
Commissioner Tilsen moved to recommend that the City Council
grant a conditional use permit which would allow the
construction of a 24' by 24' pigeon coop which should be
placed at least 42 feet from the property line with a 20 foot
separation from the garage and that the City Council should
find that this use is not detrimental to the health, safety or
general welfare of the community, nor will cause serious
traffic congestion nor hazards, nor will seriously depreciate
surrounding property, and that the same is in harmony with the
general purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance and the
Comprehensive Plan.
Commissioner Friel seconded the motion.
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 7
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
HEARINGs
CASE NO. 94-08t
OPP -
SUBDIVISION
Chair Dwyer that Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Opp, of 786 Evergreen
Knolls, wish to purchase some adjoining land from their
neighbor, Arleen Devalerio, for the purpose of expanding their
lawn and garden area. He explained that Ms. Devalerio's
parcel is over 30,000 square feet in size and will be over
20,000 square feet in size after the rear 88.5 feet have been
combined with the Opp property. He stated that no new
residential property is being created, just an enlargement of
the Opp's existing single family lot.
Mr. Opp briefly reiterated that they are purchasing this piece
of land to enhance their back yard and to also help preserve
the property.
Commissioner Tilsen inquired about the No Dumping" sign on
the empty lot east of Ms. Devalerio's property. Ms. Opp
responded that this property is owned by Ms. Bernice McGown.
Chair Dwyer opened the meeting to the public.
Ms. Bernice McGown, owner of the empty lot located east of Ms.
Devalerio's property, stated with the addition of Devalerio
property to the Opp property, she does not want to see this
property developed in the future.
Commissioner Tilsen moved to close the public hearing.
Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
Commissioner Duggan moved to recommend that the City Council
grant the subdivision.
Commissioner Hunter seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 8
HEARING:
CASE NO. 94-09:
UNITED PROPERTIES -
(BDS, INC.) -
SUBDIVISION AND SIGN
SETBACK VARIANCE
Chair Dwyer explained that United Properties is requesting the
subdivision of a piece of property, located on the north side
of Enterprise Drive, which would allow the construction of a
28,600 square foot office/warehouse facility. He further
explained that United Properties is also requesting the
standard 20 foot sign setback variance which has commonly been
applied for in the business park and that it would also
conform with the United Properties', Mendota Heights Business
Park Sign Policy. Chair Dwyer also pointed out that United
Properties is also pursing Tax Increment Financing and that
piece of the request is beyond the Planning Commission's
jurisdiction.
Mr. Dale Glowa, of United Properties, explained that the BDS
Company is a laundry equipment and repair business desires to
construct a 28,600 square foot office/warehouse facility on
Enterprise Drive. He explained that this company is presently
located in Bloomington, but has been looking for a location to
expand their business.
Mr. Glowa explained that this site is located on the north
side of Enterprise Drive just east of Pilot Knob Road and
south of the R.L. Johnson building which was constructed in
1979. He stated the development of this property is
consistent with the United Properties Master Plan for the
Industrial Park. He explained that the replatting consists of
moving the common property line between Lots 1 and 2. He
explained that the BDS Company will be located on Lot 1. He
stated that United Properties is currently negotiating with
another company in moving its headquarters to the remaining 3
1/3 acre of land created by this subdivision.
Glowa explained that BDS Company proposes to have 8,400 square
feet of office space and 20,200 square feet of warehouse
space. He explained that the site plan has been developed to
have a circular plan with the truck dock facing north towards
the R.L. Johnson building. He stated the truck dock will be
totally screened from the street. He stated that Planner Uban
has recommended further landscape screening which United
Properties intends on completing.
Glowa explained that the exterior materials will consist of a
combination of decorative block and glass with a banding
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 9
around three sides of the building. He stated no banding will
appear on the rear of the building. He stated the back side
of the building will have a rock faced painted block which
will match the material used in the front. He stated the
material used is similar to brick. He stated that this
material is pre-finished and that it never has to be painted.
Glowa further explained that berming will be constructed up to
the window sills and that they will be constructing the
building based on Air Noise II Sound Regulations. He stated
the height of the structure will be 20 feet.
Glowa explained that the 64 parking stalls will be provided
and that 58 stalls are required by ordinance. He further
explained that a new landscape plan is being completed and
that Planner Uban's comments and suggestions will be
integrated into the new landscape plan. He further stated
that irrigation will be included on the landscape plan.
Glowa stated that the same lighting standards as used in the
Industrial Park will be used on this building with no head
lights beaming from the building. He further stated that on-
site storm water retention has been met and approved by the
City's Engineering Department.
Glowa explained that the trash receptacles will be located
inside the building as required by the City's Zoning
Ordinance,
Regarding Planner Uban's suggestion in constructing retaining
walls along the rear lot line along the railroad to help
retain the cottonwood trees, Mr. Glowa stated that this is too
costly of an idea and that cottonwoods are considered a scrub
tree. He stated that United Properties will do its best to
retain as many trees as possible.
Glowa stated that, as requested in the past, United Properties
is proposing to install the BDS sign within the 20 foot right-
of-way. He stated with the placement of the sign, it will not
restrict visibility for normal traffic movements and that it
will conform with the signage on adjacent properties. He
further explained that additional signage for fire lanes is
proposed as well as direction signs for shipping and
receiving.
Mr. Glowa stated they wish to begin construction in May and
complete the construction by October.
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 10
Commissioner Tilsen inquired, with respect to the storm water
pond, that United Properties should consider one storm water
retention pond for both lots instead of two. He stated that
one larger pond is more aesthetically pleasing than two. Mr.
Glowa responded that they are reviewing this possibility and
that one pond would be more appropriate. Tilsen stated that
a permanent pond instead of a dry pond should be considered.
Mr. Glowa stated that he would like to reserve some
flexibility in that Lot 2 is undeveloped.
In response to a question from Commissioner Tilsen regarding
storm water drainage into the City's system, Public Works
Director Danielson stated that the storm sewer system has been
designed to function correctly.
Commissioner Tilsen stated his concern should the building
change ownership and City requirements are no longer
maintained. Mr. Glowa responded that United Properties has
protective covenants which run with the property.
Commissioner Duggan inquired if machinery will be moved on and
off of the property. Mr. Glowa stated most of the equipment
comes direct from the manufacturer. He further stated there
will be minimal assembly work conducted inside the building.
In response to a question from Chair Dwyer, Mr. Glowa referred
to a plan dated April 18, 1994, that the building will have
rounded corners similar to the Solvay, Big Wheel and VGC
buildings.
In response to a question from Commissioner Tilsen, Mr. Glowa
stated there will be 3-5 ton rooftop units which will not be
seen from the street. He explained that Planner Uban has
accepted this plan.
Commissioner Tilsen stated that significant trees should be
saved particularly since the railroad right-of-way will be
developed into a regional trail system. Mr. Glowa responded
that the trees within the railroad right-of-way will be tagged
so the contractor does not remove them. Tilsen noted that
there were mature trees of 24", 36" and 22".
Commissioner Tilsen noted that the Planner has stated that
additional islands and planting areas need to be expanded into
the parking lot and landscaped with shrubs and trees as
required by ordinance. Mr. Glowa stated United Properties
will integrate these requirements into the landscape plan.
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 11
In response to a question from Commissioner Hunter, Planner
Uban stated that their rail easement should be vacated if not
used. Mr. Glowa stated that United Properties will take care
of this process through the normal transfer of deed.
Commissioner Friel inquired why the railroad spur easement is
still in existence. Mr. Glowa stated that the easement has
existed should United Properties need one for a development.
Commissioner Friel inquired in whose favor does the railroad
easement run. He stated usually an easement runs in favor of
the owner. He inquired as to the status of the railroad
right-of-way behind the property. He stated the City Council
should be made aware of the status of the easement and in
whose favor the easement runs.
Commissioner Friel inquired about Section 19.4 of the Zoning
Ordinance regarding Building Permit Requirements. He noted
that the Planning Commission is not required to be involved in
this process and that only City Council has jurisdiction.
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated that all building
permits within "I" and "B" Zone are required to be approved by
the City Council. He explained that had United Properties not
needed to replat this property, or apply for a variance, this
application would have gone directly to the City Council for
building permit review. He explained that the City Council
does appreciate the Planning Commission's review and comment
on site plan issues.
Commissioner Koll inquired if the block material maintains its
color. Mr. Glowa stated the rock face block on the rear wall
must be painted. He stated two coats of latex paint is used.
He stated the color is impregnated into the block used on the
front and side walls. He stated there are several buildings
in Plymouth which have used this material and the product is
very dependable.
Chair Dwyer opened the meeting to the public.
There was no one present to discuss this matter.
Commissioner Tilsen moved to close the public hearing.
Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
Planning Commission
I ) April 26, 1994
Page 12
Commissioner Tilsen moved to recommend that the City Council
approve the subdivision and sign setback variance and all
recommendations (1 through 17) within the April 26, 1994
Planner's Report (see attachment) including:
1. That all existing trees within the green area be tagged
and saved; and
2. The status of the railroad easement right-of-way be
reviewed; and
3. That one storm water retention pond be incorporated for
both lots; and
4. That a revised landscaping plan be submitted (using the
Planner's recommendations within the April 26, 1994
report).
Commissioner Duggan seconded the motion.
VOTE ON REPLAT:
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
VOTE ON SITE PLAN REVIEW:
AYES: 5
NAYS: 0
ABSTAIN: 1, FRIEL
Commissioner Friel abstained from site plan review as the
Planning Commission is not required, by Ordinance, to review
this information.
VERBAL REVIEW
Public Works Director Danielson informed the Commission of
City Council action on previous planning cases.
In response to a question from Commissioner Duggan,
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated he had researched
the R.L. Johnson fence approval request from 1983. He stated
that the City Council approved a Conditional Use Permit for a
guard house and an eight foot chain link fence. He stated
this approval did not include barb wire on top of the fence.
He stated the City Council will review this issue.
Planning Commission
April 26, 1994
Page 13
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Planning Commission
adjourned at 9:30 o'clock P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Kimberlee K. Blaeser
Senior Secretary
)
CASE NO: 94 -09
April 26, 1994
Page 2
two (2) remaining lots along the north side of Enterprise Drive. The replatting reduces the size of
lot one, slightly by moving the property line to the east. Lot 1 is created to specifically accommodate
the proposed 28,000 s.f. building.
Plans have been submitted that show the adjacent structures, topography, existing utilities and trees
located on the site. The trees appear to be primarily cottonwoods with a significant number of them
on the rear portion of the site along the railroad track. The retention of some of these fairly large
trees along the property edge would be beneficial to the overall appearance of the park and would
provide some amenities for the future bike trail that will be built in the railroad right -of -way on the
north side of the property.
An old railroad easement on the property would need to be vacated to complete development over
that spurline easement.
The parcel that remains undeveloped (Lot 2) is approximately 3 1/3 acre and is ample size to
accommodate a variety of office/ industrial uses. Overall the replatting will facilitate the development
of the industrial park in an efficient fashion and is a common practice used by developers to adjust
plats to each building as a new user is accommodated in the business park.
Sign Variance
It is typical in the Northland Business Park to place the sign within 20' of the right -of -way. This has
been accomplished on other parcels when the signage meets the standards of the park which are
illustrated in the plan set submitted for the DBS building. The plans do not show any specific
landscaping around the sign setting which should be addressed in a revised landscape plan. The
placement of the sign will not restrict visibility for normal traffic movements and conforms with the
signage on adjacent properties. Additional signage for fire lanes is proposed as well as direction signs
for shipping and receiving.
Site Plan Compliance
The submitted set of plans for the site and building have been reviewed, and the following comments
are based on needed revisions and clarifications for full compliance with the City's ordinance.
1. The submitted grading plan shows ponding on the east side of the site and the burning of the
building between the parking lot and the structure on the south, east, and west faces of the building.
The parking lot sits approximately 5' above the road with a sloping landscaped area between the
parking lot and the right -of -way. The grading plan also shows the removal of all existing trees on the
site. It is possible that some of the perimeter trees could be saved by adjusting the site grading with
the use of retaining walls around tree root systems.
CASE NO: 94 -09
April26, 1994
Page 3
2. The storm pond shown on the site collects some water, but it also shows some of the parking
area draining directly into the City's storm sewer system. The drainage system should be amended
to store all water on the site prior to release into the City storm sewer system.
3. The site plan as laid out shows the loading activity taking place in the rear of the building
toward the railroad tracks generally out of view from Enterprise Drive. Loading will be visible from
the adjacent property to the east and some additional screening is needed. The interior access road
system is set back 10' from the property line and 10' from the building according to code with a front
setback for parking of 20'. Parking is set back 10' from the building, less than that where the entrance
portico sticks out toward the parking lot. This is an acceptable protrusion of the building toward
parking to accommodate easy and friendly access into the building.
4. The site plan does not show the location of the trash and recycling enclosure, but it is
assumed that it is shown on the landscape plan in the northeast corner of the site. This removes some
of the parking and is not located according to City code. Zoning code requires that the trash be
located either in the building interior or attached to the building accessible from the inside. This
should be revised on the plan.
5. The proposed parking shows 62 or 64 parking stalls depending on location of the trash
receptacle. Office parking requirements are 43 parking stalls with 15 required for the remaining
warehouse and shop area. A total of 58 are required.
6. Parking lot and loading area lighting was not shown on the plans. The submitted narrative
indicated that the lighting will be developed according to United Properties typical standards using
a "Le Box" style light which will control light spillage and glare. The plan should be revised to show
light locations and specify light fixtures.
7. The general building plans showed two slightly different configurations of the front building
area. The site plan, and what I believe to be the intent of the builder, shows curved corners on the
portico and the front corners of the building. This is done to give a more attractive appearance to
the front, and we believe it will add to the design of the building.
8. The building materials generally are decorative block on 3 sides with the rear side being
painted concrete block. Colors are not indicated except that the metal flashing is to be a burgundy
color. Further color detailing should be clarified before the City Council meeting.
9. Detailed site section has been shown, showing the view of the rooftop mechanical from the
street. The view line indicates that the height of the building and the change of elevations will
successfully screen the rooftop units from the street.
CASE NO: 94 -09
April 26, 1994
Page 4
10. The building is in airport noise zone 2 and needs to follow the sound abatement ordinance.
The narrative indicates that 1" thick argon filled windows will be used in addition to the augmented
insulation needed for the office areas.
11. The lot open space is shown to be 26% for the site. This meets requirements of the
ordinance. The landscape plan shows landscaping around the front edges of the building and front
parking lot with some along the east and west edges.
12. The landscape plan does not show any retention of existing trees on the site. This could be
accomplished in the rear of the lot along the railroad and along the eastern edge of the property with
the use of some retaining walls. Ordinance 4.17 (5d) requires that every reasonable attempt be made
to incorporate the existing trees into the site plan. Some incorporation of these perimeter trees would
be beneficial to the overall appearance and aesthetics of the site, particularly since MNDot now owns
the railroad right -of -way and will be developing it into a regional trail system in the future.
13. Landscaping within the parking lot needs to be 5% of the parking surface. Additional islands
and planting areas need to be expanded into the parking lot and landscaped with shrubs or trees. This
requirement has not been met, and the landscape plan should be revised to meet that ordinance
requirement.
14. Additional screening needs to be applied to the northeast edge of the site to better screen the
loading area from the adjacent property. No landscaping has been shown in this area.
15. The screening of parking along Enterprise Drive is accomplished through the planting of four
over story trees and eleven spruce trees. This screening is required to be 90% opaque during all
seasons. Some of these areas will not meet that criteria, but could, with the inclusion of shrub
plantings to fill in the vacant spots.
16. Planting Details are required to be placed on the plan and none have been supplied. It is
important to incorporate these details specifically when planting on the side slopes of the pond.
These are difficult planting conditions and there are a number of trees shown in this area.
Additionally, the planting around the building in the bermed area between the sidewalk and the
building facade should be carefully detailed. Some of these areas have been left blank on the plan and
should be filled in to match the rest of the perimeter design.
17. The plan did not include any irrigation with landscape plan which is required by City
ordinance. The revised plans should include irrigation coverage and design.