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1997 PC Meeting MinutesJanuary 13, 1997 117 CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 P.M. with the following present: Kamp, Koss, Lundeen, Magnuson, Nystrom and VonRueden. The following were absent: Elsen and Maloney. Also present were Planner Peaslee and Recording Secretary Scofield. Moved by Commissioner Nystrom and seconded by Commissioner Koss to approve the minutes of the December 9, 1996 meeting. Motion carried. 1. Acting Chair Magnuson declared that nominations were open for Officers of the Planning Commission consisting of Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary for the year ending December 31, 1997. Commissioner Nystrom nominated and Commissioner Lundeen seconded the nomination of Paulette Magnuson as Chair of the Planning Commission for the year ending December 31, 1997. All those in favor signified by voting aye, those opposed by voting no. Motion carried unanimously. Commissioner Nystrom nominated and Commissioner Koss seconded the nomination of Jane Elsen as Vice Chair of the Planning Commission for the year ending December 31, 1997. All those in favor signified by voting aye, those opposed by voting no. Motion carried unanimously. Commissioner Nystrom nominated and Commissioner Koss seconded the nomination of Gregory Lundeen as Secretary of the Planning Commission for the year ending December 31, 1997. All those in favor signified by voting aye, those opposed by voting no. Motion carried unanimously. . Chair Magnuson declared this was a continuation of the public hearing to consider Application #96-9.1 as submitted by Tim Herlofsky to rezone property from R-1 (Single Family Residential) District to B-3 (Auto -Oriented Commercial) 118 January 13, 1997 District at 6411 Lombardy Lane. Planner Peaslee recommended denial. Tim Herlofsky, 6411 Lombardy Lane, said he has been trying to come up with a property in another city. Recently expanded business and asked for a reasonable amount of time. Majority of employees live in Crystal, not bothering the neighbors and thinks the City is trying to get him out. No one appeared in opposition. Moved by Commissioner Lundeen .and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Lundeen and seconded by Commissioner Kamp to recommend to the City Council to deny Application #96-9.1, as submitted by Tim Heriofsky to rezone the property from R-1 (Single Family Residential) District to B- 3 (Auto -oriented Commercial) District at 6411 Lombardy Lane, legally described as Lot 2, Block 1, Soule Addition. The findings of fact are: 1. Relationship to municipal comprehensive plan. The comprehensive plan, in this instance indicates that parcels should not be rezoned on a parcel by parcel piecemeal basis 2. The geographical area involved. The geographical area involved is largely residential. This proposal would further extend commercial areas into residential contrary to point 4 of Commercial/Mixed Use Area Objectives. 3. Whether such use will tend to or actually depreciate the area in which it is proposed. The rezoning would tend to have a negative effect on the residential character of the property as well as the surrounding residential property. 4. The character of the surrounding area. The surrounding area is characterized by residential uses. 5. The demonstrated need for such use. There is commercial property in Crystal and surrounding communities that have appropriate zoning for this use. 6. The Council should grant Mr. Heriofsky 30 days because of the long delay. Tim Heriofsky has not really tried to locate another location. Motion carried. 3. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97-1.3 for a site plan review as submitted by American Portable Telecom (APT) for a proposed lighting standard and January 13, 1997 1. , telecommunications tower at Becker Park, 6225 - 56th Avenue North. Planner Peaslee stated the site would have to be between 58th and 47th Avenue North along 81 to be appropriate to the Comprehensive Plan. It is proposed to replace an existing light tower in Becker Park with a telecommunications tower. There would be an antenna at the top of a 130 ft. tower of a high density stealth design. The tower would be 6 ft. in diameter. Tower must be 200 ft. from the nearest residence. Fencing and landscaping must be provided. These towers are designed to bend. The company has located four in elementary school yards. Peter Heimdahl, works for American Portable Telecom, stated a tower was erected at the school hockey rink in Plymouth and a baseball field at a school in Edina. James Lee, consulting company, stated Timesavers (5270 Hanson Court) was a second choice which is near the railroad tracks but too close to Robbinsdale. Planning Commission did not want it on a park site, preferred a commercial. Asked if the Metropolitan Council gave any recommendations. Planner Peaslee said they wanted to minimize environmental impact by putting in an industrial site not a regional park. Commission felt too close to airport as tower not required to be lighted. (FAA requires anything over 200 ft. to be lit.) Peter Heimdahl stated they don't want overlaps nor gaps. Depends on where they have secured zoning in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Brooklyn Park's antenna will be on the water tower. Planner Peaslee said they would have to make a new plan review to the City if not located in the park. Bob Bellos, 6321 Brentwood Ave. N., asked if the company could turn up the power. James Lee said they could not increase power between towers. Moved by Commissioner Lundeen and seconded by Commissioner Koss to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Lundeen and seconded by Commissioner Koss to recommend to the City Council to deny Application #97-1.3 for a site plan review as submitted by American 12 IJ January 13, 1997 Portable Telecom (APT) for a proposed lighting standard and telecommunications tower at Becker Park, 6225 - 56th Avenue North. The findings of fact are: Inappropriate in combining business with a busy park facility, interferes with the skyline, a blight, opening up parks setting a precedent for municipal business opportunities, Park and Recreation Advisory Commission had rejected the proposal, Metropolitan Council has concerns regarding their parks, could look at other sites --industrial site and Robbinsdale and Brooklyn Park have not settled on this. Motion carried. 4. Consideration of Application #97-2.3 for a site plan review of the northeast corner at West Broadway and 56th Avenue North as requested by Bass Lake Road Retail Associates. Moved by Commissioner Koss and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to set a public hearing before the Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, Monday, February 10, 1997, to consider Application #97-2.3 for a site plan review of the northeast corner at West Broadway and 56th Avenue North as requested by Bass Lake Road Retail Associates, 2227 University Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55114. Motion carried. 5. Consideration of Application #97-3.1 for rezoning property from R-1 (Single Family Residential) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District at 5624 Hampshire Avenue North as requested by Bass Lake Road Retail Associates. Moved by Commissioner Koss and seconded by Commissioner VonRueden to set a public hearing before the Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, Monday, February 10, 1997, to consider Application #97-3.1 for rezoning property from R-1 (Single Family Residential) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District at 5624 Hampshire Avenue North, described as that part lying north of south 35 ft of Lot 12, Block 5, Kensey Manor as requested by Bass Lake Road Retail Associates, 2227 University Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55114. Motion carried. 6. Review of PCS tower ordinance. January 13, 1997 7. Discussion: 121 Chair Magnuson inquired if the adult entertainment ordinance is in effect because of the rumored sale of the Iron Horse. Moved by Commissioner Lundeen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. Motion carried. Chair Magnuson 122 February 10, 1997 CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following present: Elsen, Kamp, Koss, Lundeen, Magnuson, Maloney, Nystrom and Von Rueden; also present were Planner Peaslee and Recording Secretary Scofield. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Lundeen to approve the minutes of the January 23, 1997, meeting. Motion carried. 1. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97- 3.1 as submitted by the Bass Lake Road Associates, 2227 University Avenue, St. Paul, to rezone property from R-1 (Single Family Residential) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District at 5624 and 5647 Hampshire Avenue North. Planner Peaslee stated the B-4 zoning was appropriate to the Comprehensive Plan and would facilitate the development of the shopping center and provide access to truck traffic. Both owners contacted the City, and the developer will buy the properties from the City and probably will use 5624 as an office during construction. The following were heard: Bob Bellos, Sr., 6321 Brentwood Ave. N. Bill Kusske, 6500 Brentwood Ave. N. Vivian Schermers, 5640 Hampshire Ave. N. Eldon Schermers, 5640 Hampshire Ave. N. The following concerns were presented: Wondering if the City's costs of purchasing and relocating the owners of the properties were being passed on to the developer. Thought the EDA Advisory had said no houses would be bought. Concerned with location of parking, number of entrances and exits, the Medical Center Building, the trees and a fence, different plan last November, Brentwood residents access to Bass Lake Road and West Broadway and emergency vehicles access to neighborhood. Planner Peaslee stated costs of purchasing properties would be passed on to the developer, and the Medical Center Building would be modified. Brentwood residents would go out Elmhurst or north to Cloverdale or 58th Avenue North. Police and Fire saw no problem in the case of an emergency in the neighborhood. February 10, 1997 123 Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Lundeen to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Maloney and seconded by Commissioner Elsen to recommend to the City Council to approve Application #97-3.1 as submitted by the Bass Lake Road Associates to rezone property from R-1 (Single Family Residential) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District at 5624 Hampshire Avenue North, legally described as that part lying N of S 35 ft of Lot 12, Block 5, Kensey Manor, and at 5647 Hampshire Avenue North, legally described as Lot 2, Block 1, Mike Wilder Addition. The findings of fact are: I. The proposed rezoning is consistent with the comprehensive plan in that it rezones property to B-4 Community Commercial consistent with the Comprehensive Plan designation of CR Community Retail and T Transitional. The proposed rezoning will facilitate the continued revitalization of the Bass Lake Road/ West Broadway retail area as the City's central business and entertainment district. ■ Improve the existing retail center by providing viable, safe, convenient, accessible and attractive shopping environments that are user friendly and able to satisfy market area demands. ■ Substantially improve the quality and image and increase the value of the retail center on the West Broadway corridor by facilitating the removal of blighted and underutilized properties. ■ Intensify but contain existing retail centers to minimize sprawling impacts on adjacent residential areas. . The geographical area is guided CR Community Retail T Transition. 3. The rezoning will not tend to or actually depreciate the area in which it is Proposed, because it is removing blighted and underutilized property; and the rezoning will facilitate the development of a retail shopping center which will strengthen the West Broadway/Bass Lake ,Road retail area as well as provide a greater variety of retail and service opportunities for the community and neighboring areas. 4, The character of the surrounding area is commercial retail and residential. 5. The demonstrated need for such use. Motion carried. 2. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97- 2.3 for a site plan review of the northeast corner at West Broadway and 56th Avenue North as submitted by the Bass Lake 124 February 10, 1997 Road Associates, 2227 University Avenue, St. Paul. Planner Peaslee stated there will be two access points on West Broadway with lights at 57th Ave. N. and the former Hampshire Avenue on 56th Ave. N. Plan to turn semi -trailers around behind the building. City Forester will work with the developer's landscaper to add trees. Five parking spaces per thousand and one row of employee parking in back. Buildings will be brick, rusticated block and glass. Back of building will be rusticated block. The following were heard: Bob Bellos, Sr., 6321 Brentwood Ave. N. Bill Kusske, 6500 Brentwood Ave. N. Pat Reilly, 6404 Brentwood Ave. N. The following concerns were presented: Good time to build the fence at the alley, three-way stop sign at the alley, walkway entrance to the neighborhood, parking and exits, some neighbors not happy with closing Hampshire, want trees and fence, placement of refuse containers, fence while work being done and enforce the 30 -minute loading zone in the alley. ` John Streeter of Bass Lake Road Retail Associates said safety first regarding a walkway entrance to the neighborhood, and they would comply with the City's regulations regarding the refuse containers and does not know where they will be located at this time. Moved by Commissioner Lundeen and seconded by Commissioner Elsen to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Lundeen and seconded by Commissioner Maloney to recommend to the City Council to approve Application #97-2.3 for a site plan review {Section 520 of tine Crystal City Code) of the northeast corner at `fest Broadway and 56th Avenue North Gass Lake Read! as requested by Bass Lake Read Retail Associates, but to consider the fencing, three-way step at alley, no parking in the alley, alley signage of no through traffic, no parking in the alley, temporary fence during construction and no traffic through Brentwood. The findings of fact are: February 10, 1997 a) consistency with the elements and objectives of the City's development guides, including the comprehensive plan, general building requirements, subsection 595.07 and stormwater management plan; This plan meets the requirements of this paragraph. b) consistency with this section; c) preservation of the site in its natural state to the extent practicable by minimizing tree and soil removal and designing grade changes to be in keeping with the general appearance of neighboring developed or developing areas; There is tree removal, however considerable effort was made to preserve significant trees. Additionally more trees are planned. This effort has been done in cooperation with the City Forester and meets the City's requirements. d) creation of a harmonious relationship of buildings and open spaces with natural site features and with existing and future buildings having a visual relationship to the development; It meets this paragraph. e) creation of a functional and harmonious design for structures and site features, with special attention to the following: 9) an internal sense of order for the buildings and uses on the site and provision of a desirable environment for occupants, visitors and the general community; ) the amount and location of open space and landscaping; 3) materials, textures, colors and details of construction as an expression of the design concept and the compatibility of the same with the adjacent and neighboring structures and uses; and The building is brick and rusticated colored block. 4) vehicular and pedestrian circulation, including walkways, interior drives and parking in terms of location and number of access points to the public streets, width of interior drives and access points, general interior circulation, separation of pedestrian and vehicular traffic and arrangement and amount of parking. It meets the requirements of paragraph e. f) promotion of energy conservation through design, location, orientation and elevation of structures, the use and location of glass in structures and the use of landscape materials and site grading; and g) protection of adjacent and neighboring properties thraugh reasonable provision for surface water drainage, sound and sight ,buffers, preservation of views, light and air and those aspects of design not adequately covered by other regulations that may have substantial effects on neighboring land uses; Buffering and landscaping will be installed as well as use of existing vegetation preserves neighborhood views. 125 126 February 10, 1997 The Planning Commission directed that the landscaping and pedestrian walkway should come back for review. Plans for the alley should be investigated by staff and reported back to Planning Commission. Motion carried. 3. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97- 4.3 for a site plan review as submitted by American Portable Telecom (APT), 1701 E. 79th Street, Suite 19, Bloomington, for a proposed lighting standard and telecommunications tower at Timesavers Inc., 5270 Hanson Court North. Commissioner Maloney left the meeting because of a conflict of interest. Planner Peaslee stated towers are permitted on industrial property. Ordinance as a general rule requires cabinets to be fenced and then screened, but believe screening is not necessary at this time although it may be in the future (towers have a 24 -year life span. Peter Heimdahl of APT stated they are currently in negotiations with Timesavers. Chair Magnuson questioned lighting the tower. FAA would have to review. No one appeared in opposition. Moved by Commissioner Lundeen and seconded by Commissioner Kamp to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Lundeen to recommend to the City Council to approve. Application #97-4.3 for a site plan review (Section 520 of the Crystal City Code) of a proposed lighting standard and telecommunications tower at Timesavers Inc., 5270 Hanson Court North, P.I.D. #04-118-21-33-0032, as requested by American Portable Telecom (APT). The findings of fact are: Waive the requirement of landscaping and screening, but the February 10, 1997 1' 7 City may require it in the future. Plus approval given by FAA and Timesavers. a) consistency with the elements and objectives of the City's development guides, including the Comprehensive Plan, general building requirements, subsection 515.07 and stormwater management plan; This plan meets the requirements of this paragraph, b) consistency with this section; c) preservation of the site in its natural state to the extent practicable by minimizing tree and soil removal and designing grade changes to be in keeping with the general appearance of neighboring developed or developing areas; There is no tree removal, and it is in keeping with the general appearance of the site and the neighborhood. d) creation of a harmonious relationship of buildings and open spaces with natural site features and with existing and future buildings having a visual relationship to the development; It meets this paragraph. e) creation of a functional and harmonious design for structures and site features, with special attention to the following: 1) an internal sense of order for the buildings and uses on the site and provision of a desirable environment for occupants, visitors and the general community; 2) the amount and location of open space and landscaping; 3) materials, textures, colors and details of construction as an expression of the design concept and the compatibility of the same with the adjacent and neighboring structures and uses; and 4) vehicular and pedestrian circulation, including walkways, interior drives and parking in terms of location and number of access points to the public streets, width of interior drives and access points, general interior circulation, separation of pedestrian and vehicular traffic and arrangement and amount of parking. It meets the requirements of paragraph e). t) promotion of energy conservation through design, location, orientation and elevation of structures, the use and location of glass in structures and the use of landscape materials and site grading; and g) protection of adjacent and neighbofing properties through reasonable provision for surface water drainage, sound and sight buffers, preservation of views, light and air and those aspects of design not adequately covered by other regulations that may have substantial effects on neighboring land uses; It does preserve views of other areas by co -location and by being in a heavily developed lindustrial area. Motion carried. 4. Discussion items: 128 February 10, 1997 A. If Planning Commissioners wish to attend the Land Use Planning Workshops, the City will pay the fee. B. A preliminary and final plat and a site plan review for 6 townhouses at 2731 Douglas Drive North will be on the March agenda. C. Paster Enterprises is exploring the possibility of a movie theater behind Target and the Crystal Shopping Center. Moved by Commissioner Koss and seconded by Commissioner Lundeen to adjourn. Motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m. Chair Magnuson Secretary Lundeen March 10, 1997 129 CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following present: Elsen, Kamp, Koss, Magnuson, Nystrom and Von Rueden; the following were absent: Lundeen and Maloney; also present were Planner Peaslee and Recording Secretary Scofield. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Koss to approve the minutes of the February 10, 1997, meeting Motion carried. 1. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97- 6.3 for a site plan review of a proposed six townhouse project at 2731 Douglas Drive North as submitted by Accessible Homes, Inc., 4174 Douglas Drive North, Crystal. Planner Peaslee stated the property is zoned high density residential and could have as many as 22 units per acre. Shopping and transportation are readily available. The lest is steep in the back. There is concern regarding location of the fire hydrant. Have not seen a landscape plan. The buildings will be 30 feet from the road. These townhouses will be aimed at "empty nesters" or handicapped. The building exterior is vinyl siding with a brick wainscoting veneer. Doug Peterson of Accessible Homes stated each unit will have 1100 sq. ft. with full walkout basements. These units will be two bedroom with lower level for storage or living area and priced at a median of $116,900 each. Chair Magnuson was concerned with the 9% grade onto Douglas Drive. Harlan Peterson, uncle of Doug Peterson, said they would try to cut grade to 6 to 7%. No one appeared in opposition. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to close the public hearing. Motion carried. 130 March 10, 1997 Moved by Commissioner Nystrom and seconded by Commissioner Elsen to recommend to the City Council to approve Application #97-6.3 for a site plan review (Section 520 of the Crystal City Code) of a proposed six townhouse project at 2731 Douglas Drive North as submitted by Accessible Homes, Inc., 4174 Douglas Drive North, Crystal. The findings of fact are: a) consistency with the elements and objectives of the City's development guides, including the Comprehensive Plan, general building requirements, subsection 515.07 and stormwater management plan, The plan is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and building requirements. b) consistency with this section, c) preservation of the site in its natural state to the extent practicable by minimizing tree and soil removal and designing grade changes to be in keeping with the general appearance of neighboring developed or developing areas, The site is an altered site. d) creation of a harmonious relationship of buildings and open spaces with natural site features and with existing and future buildings having a visual relationship to the development; e) creation of a functional and harmonious design for structures and site features, with special attention to the following: 1) an internal sense of order for the buildings and uses on the site and provision of a desirable environment for occupants, visitors and the general community, ) the amount and location of open space and landscaping; 3) materials, textures, colors and details of construction as an expression of the design concept and the compatibility of the same with the adjacent and neighboring structures and uses; and 4) vehicular and pedestrian circulation, including walkways, interior drives and parking in terms of location and number of access points to the public streets, width of interior drives and access points, general interior circulation, separation of pedestrian and vehicular traffic and arrangement and amount of parking. 0 promotion of energy conservation through design, location, orientation and elevation of structures, the use and location of glass in structures and the use of landscape materials and site grading; and g) protection of adjacent and neighboring properties through reasonable provision for surface water drainage, sound and sight buffers, preservation of views, light and air and those aspects of design not adequately covered by other regulations that may have substantial effects on neighboring land uses. March 10, 1997 131 Also Planning Commission would like to review landscaping plan and elevation layout of buildings. Motion carried. 2. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97- 5.8 for the preliminary and final plat of Crystalbrook Villas located at 2731 Douglas Drive North as submitted by Accessible Homes, Inc., 4174 Douglas Drive Moved by Commissioner VonRueden and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner VonRueden and seconded by Commissioner Elsen to recommend to the City Council to approve the preliminary and final plat of Crystalbrook Villas which is a re -plat of Lot 1, Block 1, Douglas Court 2nd Addition, property is located at 2731 Douglas Drive North as submitted by Accessible Homes, Inc., 4174 Douglas Drive North. The findings of fact are: The plat is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and the zoning ordinance. Also Planning Commission would like to review landscaping plan and elevation layout of buildings. Motion carried. 3. Consideration of Application #97-7.1 of Crystal Shopping Center Associates LLP for rezoning property from R -O (Residential -Office) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District at 103 Willow Bend. Moved by Commissioner Nystrom and seconded by Commissioner Elsen to set a public hearing before the Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, Monday, April 14, 1997, to consider the request of Crystal Shopping Center Associates LLP in Application #97- 7.1 to rezone the property from R -O (Residential -Office) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District to allow for a theatre at 103 Willow Bend, described as the south 200 feet of Lot 1, Block 1, Crystal Shopping Center Addition, and to extend notification to 53rd Ave. N. Motion carried. 132 March 10, 1997 Moved by Commissioner Kamp and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to adjourn. Motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 7:58 p.m. Chair Magnuson Secretary Lundeen ,A� April 14, 1997 133 CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following present: Elsen, Kamp, Krueger, Magnuson, Maloney, Nystrom and Von Rueden; the following were absent: Koss and Lundeen; also present were Planner Peaslee and Recording Secretary Scofield. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to approve the minutes of the March 10, 1997, meeting. Motion carried. 1. Chair Magnuson swore in the new Planning Commissioner Edwin Krueger. 2. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97- 7.1 as submitted by Crystal Shopping Center LLP to rezone the property from R-0 (Residential - Office) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District to allow for a theater at 103 Willow Bend. Planner Peaslee explained the present zoning and proposed. There would probably be less garbage and better landscaping. John Streeter of Crystal Shopping Center LLP stated this property not being used. Planning Commissioners inquired how many screens the theater would have, what would be done with the snow piles, if there is enough parking and if there is an arrangement with Target. John Streeter said there would be 10 screens, so they could get first run films which Target wants; the snow will be pushed to the right or trucked; probably will need a parking variance and has an arrangement with Target. The following were heard: Roger Betlach, 5325 Georgia Ave. N. Sally Huebner, 5400 Georgia Ave. N. William Young, 5306 Jersey Ave. N. Patty Long, 5336 Louisiana Ave. N. Mary Betlach, 5325 Georgia Ave. N. James Einfeldt-Brown, 5313 Hampshire Ave. N. John Huebner, 5400 Georgia Ave. N. 13 fl April 14, 1997 The following concerns were presented: parking on 54th Ave. N., holiday parking for Target and other stores, police coverage, speed of traffic, which way the theater would face (facing the back of the shopping center buildings), lighting of the marquee, fence along 54th because of the many young families with children, thinks traffic bad now, no need for theater in area as enough already --rather have multi -family or single family housing, does not think theater meets criteria of a buffer between commercial and residential and believes value of residential property will go down. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Nystrom and seconded by Commissioner Kamp to recommend to the City Council to approve Application #97-7.1 as submitted by Crystal Shopping Center LLP to rezone the property from R -O (Residential - Office) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District at 103 Willow Bend, legally described as the south 200 feet of Lot 1, Block 1, Crystal Shopping Center Addition. The findings of fact are: To make the zoning uniform. Motion carried. G 3. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing at which time the Planning Commission will sit as a Board of Adjustments and Appeals to consider Application #97-8.9 for a single family residence which will encroach in the required 30 ft. front yard setback at 5720 43rd Avenue North as requested by the City of Crystal. Planner Peaslee stated this would be a 2000 plus sq. ft. four bedroom, one bath rambler with a two -car garage, slab on grade and completely handicapped accessible. Developer Dave Regel stated this would be a Homeward Bound home with a 24-hour staff for four people funded by the State of Minnesota. Some of the Planning Commissioners felt the neighbors should have been notified that a group home was going to be built rather than calling it a single family residence. No one appeared in opposition. April 14, 1997 135 Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Krueger to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Maloney and seconded by Commissioner Krueger that pursuant to Section 515.56 of the Crystal City Code to recommend to the City Council to vary or modify the strict application of Section 515.13, Subd. 2 a) granting a variance of 5 ft. 6 in. in the required 30 ft. front yard setback to build a single family residence at 5720 43rd Avenue North, P.I.D. #16-118-21-31-0151, as requested in Application #97-8.9 of the City of Crystal. The findings of fact are: The proposed variance will not: 1. impair an adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property 2.. unreasonably increase the congestion in public streets 3, increase the danger of fire or otherwise endanger the public safety 4. unreasonably diminish or impair established property values within the neighborhood, or in any other way be contrary to the intent of the zoning code. The hardship is caused by unique topography of the lot in that it is only 90 feet deep rather than the usual 128-135 feet typically found in Crystal and 1. the use cannot reasonably be built without the variance 2. the plight of the landowner is unique to the property and not created by the landowner 3. the variance will not alter the essential character of the locality in that other houses in the same area have lesser setbacks than the required 30 feet. The following voted aye: Maloney, Krueger and Von Rueden. The following voted no: Elsen, Kamp, Magnuson and Nystrom. Motion failed 4 to 3. 4. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97- 9.3 for a site plan review as submitted by Andrew C. Duncanson of Dunlo Motors, 5241 West Broadway, Crystal. Planner Peaslee stated the applicant wishes to improve the property to allow for the expansion of his retail/wholesale vehicle sales and his plan is compatible with the Comprehensive Plan. Andrew Duncanson of Dunlo Motors stated they plan to build this spring. 136 April 14, 1997 The following were heard: Joe Frieberg, 5225 Douglas Drive North, Builders Insulation, stated the City asked him to change the traffic flow by having a curb cut on a side street, and Dunlo Motors had three curb cuts. Planner Peaslee said staff would look at a site plan review when submitted. James McVeigh, owner of apartment building at 5153 Douglas Drive, asked if the area is going to be fenced --will be fenced and a gate as cars might be stolen. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Maloney to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner VonRueden to recommend to the City Council to approve Application #97-9.3 for a site plan review (Section 520 of the Crystal City Code) to improve the property to allow for the expansion of his retail/wholesale vehicle sales operation at 5241 West Broadway, Crystal as submitted by Andrew C. Duncanson of Dunlo Motors, 5241 West Broadway. The findings of fact are: a) consistency with the elements and objectives of the City's development guides, including the comprehensive plan, general building requirements, subsection 515.07 and stormwater management plan; b) consistency with this section; c) preservation of the site in its natural state to the extent practicable by minimizing tree and soil removal and designing grade changes to be in keeping with the general appearance of neighboring developed or developing areas d) creation of a harmonious relationship of buildings and open spaces with natural site features and with existing and future buildings having a visual relationship to the development, e) creation of a functional and harmonious design for structures and site features, with special attention to the following: 1) an internal sense of order for the buildings and uses on the site and provision of a desirable environment for occupants, visitors and the general community, 2) the amount and location of open space and landscaping, April 14, 1997 3) materials, textures, colors and details of construction as an expression of the design concept and the compatibility of the same with the adjacent and neighboring structures and uses, and 4) vehicular and pedestrian circulation, including walkways, interior drives and parking in terms of location and number of access points to the public streets, width of interior drives and access points, general interior circulation, separation of pedestrian and vehicular traffic and arrangement and amount of parking. 0 promotion of energy conservation through design, location, orientation and elevation of structures, the use and location of glass in structures and the use of landscape materials and site grading, and g) protection of adjacent and neighboring properties through reasonable provision for surface water drainage, sound and sight buffers, preservation of views, light and air and those aspects of design not adequately covered by other regulations that may have substantial effects on neighboring land uses. With the following conditions: 137 1, The applicant execute a site plan agreement with the City. 2, The applicant provide a letter of credit to guarantee installation of paving, landscaping, and drainage improvements. 3. The applicant submit a sign plan to the Planning Commission May 12 meeting prior to obtaining a permit to install the sign. Motion carried. 5. Items for discussion: A. Proposed six townhouse project at 2731 Douglas Drive North landscape plan and deck variance as referred from the City Council. Landscaping berm in the front, Black Hills 6' tall spruce trees, shade trees 2-1/2" diameter in front yards, building will be set back 40, so a deck variance not necessary. Townhouses will have brick veneer and vinyl siding. B. 5225 Douglas Drive North JFI Builders Insulation. Staff perspective is concrete block building if decorative. Council wants to see brick or stone when T.I.F. is requested. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Maloney to adjourn. Motion carried. 1 t3 r, April 14, 1997 The meeting adjourned at 9:52 p.m. air Magnus n Secretary Lundeen CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MAY 12, 1997 CANCELLED June 9, 1997 73n CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following present: Elsen, Kamp, Koss, Krueger, Magnuson, Nystrom and Von Rueden; the following were absent: Lundeen and Maloney; also present were Planner Peaslee and Recording Secretary Scofield. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Krueger to approve the minutes of the April 14, 1997, meeting,. Motion carried. Consideration of Variance Application # for a garage which will encroach in the required 75' at 3621 Xenia Ave. N. as requested by Michael Gordon Anderson Chair Magnuson stated it looked like forms set and then he came in for a permit and needed a variance. We will not have a quorum on June 23. Maybe there could be a staff report for the July 15 Council meeting to be handed out. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to set 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard Monday, July 14, 1997, as the date and time for a public hearing at which time the Planning Commission will sit as a Board of Adjustments and Appeals to consider Variance Application # to grant a variance of 20.5' in the required 75' setback (for a proposed setback of 54.5') (Section 515.07, Subd. 5 c) 1) and 6) construction of a 22 ft. x 28 ft. garage at 3621 Xenia Ave. N. P.I.D. #16- 118-21-34-0049 as requested by Michael Gordon Anderson. Motion carried. , Discussion of 1998 Comprehensive Plan Update Planner Peaslee stated there would have to be an update by December 31, 1998. The Metropolitan Council projects 330,000 additional households by 2020 with higher density than present 3.3 house units per acre to 5 units per acre. May need more assisted living such as Crystal Care Center. The population is declining in Crystal. There is a short supply of medium houses --moderately priced. Chair Magnuson suggested a work session with the City Council. 3. Discussion of relationship between Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Ordinance and site plan review ordinance with regard to non -conforming uses at 5153 Idaho, 5207, 5201, 5169, 5167, 5163, and 5159 Douglas Drive. The property north of the Soo Line Railroad tracks between Douglas Drive and the park has a conflict between the Zoning Ordinance classification of I-2 Heavy Industrial and the Comprehensive Plan designation as Parks/Open Space. 1.4 June 9, 1997 Since the change in the Comprehensive Plan the staff has treated the properties as non- conforming uses. In several cases the staff has discouraged owners from expanding or changing the nature of their business. In other cases, applicants have made improvements to their property which staff has deemed are appropriate for a non -conforming use in that they do not expand the use and are more in the nature of repair and maintenance. Staff recommends maintaining the status quo of permit work that does not require site plan review for maintenance and minor remodeling. The Planning Commission suggested getting input from the residents and business owners. The Planning Commission also suggested the staff investigate guiding the property Mixed Use -Employment Oriented and zoning it Light Industrial. 4. Discussion of Comprehensive Plan Designation of 3148 Douglas Drive North (32 & Douglas) and possible change from LR Low Density Residential to MR Medium Density Residential Planner Peaslee stated there is a trend to townhouse development. Builders are looking for potential sites. This parcel is zoned R-1 with commercial in the front and possibly 10 to 12 units could be built. With a change in the Comprehensive Plan to higher density in a request for Metropolitan Council approval about 20 units could be built. Chair Magnuson stated the task force on the Nafstad property saw no reason to change the zoning. Felt should look at the Highway 81 area where the Suburban Motel was and perhaps develop into townhouses. Commissioners were concerned with so many units, suggested larger houses and make the commercial portion R-1, suggested City acquire property and concerned about wetland area (approved by watershed engineer and Corps of Engineers). Moved by Commissioner Kamp and seconded by Commissioner Koss to adjourn. Motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 8:38 p.m. Chair agnus Secretary Lundeen July 14, 1997 CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following present: Elsen, Krueger, Magnuson, Maloney, Nystrom and Von Rueden; the following were absent: Lundeen and Maloney; also present were Planner Peaslee and Recording Secretary Scofield. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to approve the minutes of the June 9, 1997, meeting. Motion carried. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing at which time the Planning Commission will sit as a Board of Adjustments and Appeals to consider Application #97-10.9 for construction of a garage which will encroach in the required 75 ft. setback at 3621 Xenia Avenue North as requested by Michael Gordon Anderson. Planner Peaslee stated Mr. Anderson went around with a petition to approximately 30 of his neighbors who did not oppose the location of the garage. Michael G. Anderson, 3621 Xenia, stated garage would be about six ft. from his residence. Jeri Woodfill, 3613 Xenia, stated if the garage were moved back as far as the ordinance required, it would block off their back yard, and Michael Anderson would have to cut down a beautiful crimson maple tree. No one appeared in opposition. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner VonRueden to close the public hearing. Motion carried Moved by Commissioner Maloney and seconded by Commissioner VonRueden that pursuant to Section 515.56 of the Crystal City Code to recommend to the City Council to vary or modify the strict application of Section 515..07, Subd. 5 c) 1) and 6) granting a variance of 20.5 ft. in the required 75 ft. setback. for construction of a 22 ft. x 28 ft. garage at 3621 Xenia Avenue North, P.I.D #16-118-21-34-0049, as requested in Application #97-10.9 of Michael Gordon Anderson. The findings of fact are: The proposed variance will not: 1, impair an adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property 2. unreasonably increase the congestion in public streets. 3. Increase the danger of fire or otherwise endanger the public safety 4 unreasonably diminish or impair established property values within the neighborhood, or in any other way be contrary to the intent of the zoning code. 142 July 14, 1997 The hardship is caused by unique topography of the lot and 1. the use cannot reasonably be built without the variance 2. the plight of the landowner is unique to the property and not created by the landowner. 3. the variance will not alter the essential character of the locality. Motion carried. 2. Discussion of 5231 and 5237 Douglas Drive North and the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance. Planner Peaslee stated Frank Balma is interested in building a mixed use building office/commercial and residential. Edinborough Park in Edina has office, lunch areas, shopping and condominiums. Would be protection against fire and break ins as it would have 24-hour occupancy. Would have to determine whether to amend B-4 (Community Commercial) or rezone to R -O (Residential -Office). Commissioner Elsen stated the Commission should be careful in setting a precedent as it might be difficult to turn down a development in other locations. Chair Magnuson stated the Commission would control with conditional use process. Frank Balma stated he had been in the insurance business for 35 years and had sold his home and thought two or three office units on the lower level and three units above (one 1200 sq. ft. and two 1000 sq. ft. ) for residential use might be possible. Planning Commission thought an interesting concept, perhaps would like to see parking to the rear, would like to know which other cities have done this in the past 20 years and the result.. 3. Planner Peaslee stated the owner (Todd Belmore) of the property at 5501 - 56th Ave. N. (formerly a consignment shop and prior to that Ray Welter Plumbing and Heating) wanted to convert the property to a day care use. Amount of drop off space and parking space would have to be determined. Todd Belmore, 5406 Winnetka Ave. N., had originally been looking at a facility for 60 children but now looking at one for 30. Is trying to work out a parking arrangement with the floralt shop at the next door property. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Krueger to set 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard Monday, August 11, 1997, as the date and time for a public hearing at which time the Planning Commission will sit as a Board of Adjustments and Appeals to consider a variance and a site plan review. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to adjourn. Motion carried. July 14, 1997 The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.. Chair Magnuson Secretary Lundeen 143 144 August 11, 1997 CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following present: Elsen, Kamp, Krueger, Magnuson, Nystrom and Von Rueden; the following were absent: Koss, Lundeen and Maloney; also present were Community Development Director Norris, Planner Peaslee and Recording Secretary Scofield. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to approve the minutes of the July 14, 1997 meeting. Motion carried. 1. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97-11.1 as submitted by Bass Lake Road Retail Associates to rezone the property from R -I (Single Family Residential) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District at 5653 and 5659 Hampshire Avenue North. Planner Peaslee stated the developer wants to use the properties as parking. Residents do not want an entrance on 57th and Hampshire, so the developer will change that. The rezoning is consistent with all of the objectives of the Comprehensive Plan. Plans to use Black Hills Spruce as a buffer. The following were heard: Todd Campbell, 5700 Hampshire Ave. N., was concerned with his property value for taxes and resale value --should contact the City Appraiser. Brad Thorpe, Champion Auto Store 6600 Bass Lake Road, stated his concerns regarding their parking that they had lost four spaces and now have only ten spaces. Gail Baumann, 6509 - 57th Ave. N., stated at the July 28 neighborhood meeting the residents of the area disagreed with the plan and wanted no curb cut into the neighborhood --plan has been changed. Robert Bellos, 6321 Brentwood Ave. N., stated he had been on the EDA Advisory Commission advising not to take any houses --these owners contacted the City. John Streeter, Paster Enterprises, stated home owners contacted City to buy properties. There will be no parking agreement with Champion nor additional compromises with neighbors. Ed Paster stated neighbors approached City to buy houses. Paster Enterprises has had a sizable investment in Crystal for 18 years. Community Development Director Norris in response to the question had the City August 11, 1997 purchased the properties --the City had loaned the money and Paster is paying it back with interest. Chair Magnuson stated adequate buffering between the project and the residential area is needed. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner VonRueden to close the public hearing. Motion carried Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to recommend to the City Council to approve Application #97-11.1, as submitted by the Bass Lake Road Retail Associates, to rezone the property from R-1 (Single Family Residential) District to B-4 (Community Commercial) District at 5653 Hampshire Avenue North, legally described as Lot 1, Block 1, Mike Wilder Addition, and 5659 Hampshire Avenue North, Lot A, Kensey Manor. On the two lots obviously no one would be attracted to build single family residences. The findings of fact are: 1. The proposed rezoning is consistent with the comprehensive plan in that it rezones property to B-4 Community Commercial consistent with the Comprehensive Plan designation of CR Community Retail and T Transitional. + The proposed rezoning will facilitate the continued revitalization of the Bass Lake Road/ West Broadway retail area as the City's central business and entertainment district. * Improve the existing retail center by providing viable, safe, convenient, accessible and attractive shopping environments that are user friendly and able to satisfy market area demands. + Substantially improve the quality and image and increase the value of the retail center on the West Broadway corridor by facilitating the removal of blighted and underutilized properties. Intensify but contain existing retail centers to minimize sprawling impacts on adjacent residential areas. 2. The geographical area is guided CR Community Retail T Transition. The rezoning will not tend to or actually depreciate the area in which it is proposed, because it is removing blighted and underutilized property, and the rezoning will facilitate the development of a retail shopping center which will strengthen the West Broadway/Bass Lake Road retail area as well as provide a greater variety of retail and service opportunities for the community and neighboring areas 4. The character of the surrounding area is commercial retail and residential . 5. The demonstrated need for such use. Motion carried. 145 146 August 11, 1997 2. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97-12.3 for a site plan review as submitted by Bass Lake Road Retail Associates of the Crystal Town Center, the northeast corner at West Broadway and 56th Avenue North (Bass Lake Road). Planner Peaslee stated the City will retain the alley on Hampshire between the Center and Champion Auto. Has concern with the sign not conforming to the Sign Ordinance. The following were heard: Ed Paster stated they want to get noticed --would need a variance to match the sign across the street. Commissioner Elsen stated there is no land hardship as a need for a taller sign than the ordinance allows. Lois Degendorfer, 6309 Brentwood Ave. N., wanted screening and no entrance on 57th Ave. N. Gail Baumann, 6509 - 57th Ave. N., stated the storm sewer was inadequate --Planner Peaslee said a couple of catch basins would be installed. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Kamp to recommend to the City Council to approve Application #97-12.3 for a site plan review (Section 520 of the Crystal City Code) to improve the property to allow for the Crystal Town Center at the northeast corner at West Broadway and 56th Avenue North (Bass Lake Road) as submitted by Bass Lake Road Retail Associates, 2227 University Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55114, subject to the following stipulations: 1. Along 57th there should be acceptable buffers built to protect the residents. 2. Entrance on 57th will be closed. 3. The sign should be in compliance with the Sign Ordinance. The findings of fact are: a) consistency with the elements and objectives of the City's development guides, including the comprehensive plan, general building requirements, subsection 515.0 7 and storm water management plan; This plan meets the requirements of this paragraph b) consistency with this section; August 11, 1997 c) preservation of the site in its natural state to the extent practicable by minimizing tree and soil removal and designing grade changes to be in keeping with the general appearance of neighboring developed or developing areas; There is tree removal, however considerable effort was made to preserve significant trees. Additionally more trees are planned. This effort has been done in cooperation with the city forester and meets the city's requirements. d) creation of a harmonious relationship of buildings and open spaces with natural site features and with existing and future buildings having a visual relationship to the development; It meets this paragraph. e) creation of a functional and harmonious design for structures and site features, with special attention to the following: 1) an internal sense of order for the buildings and uses on the site and provision of a desirable environment for occupants, visitors and the general community; 2) the amount and location of open space and landscaping; 3) materials, textures, colors and details of construction as an expression of the design concept and the compatibility of the same with the adjacent and neighboring structures and uses; and The building is brick and rusticated colored block. 4) vehicular and pedestrian circulation, including walkways, interior drives and parking in terms of location and number of access points to the public streets, width of interior drives and access points, general interior circulation, separation of pedestrian and vehicular traffic and arrangement and amount of parking. It meets the requirements of paragraph e. f) promotion of energy conservation through design, location, orientation and elevation of structures, the use and location of glass in structures and the use of landscape materials and site grading; and g) protection of adjacent and neighboring properties through reasonable provision for surface water drainage, sound and sight buffers, preservation of views, light and air and those aspects of design not adequately covered by other regulations that may have substantial effects on neighboring land uses; Buffering and landscaping will be installed as well as use of existing vegetation preserves neighborhood views. Motion carried. 3. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97-13.3 for a site plan review as submitted by Norcostco, Inc. at 3203 Vera Cruz Avenue North. Planner Peaslee stated the land use is generally consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. MNDOT would buy properties and then we would buy back and perhaps develop with Crystal Care Center --maybe town houses. The addition does not fit the existing building in style, roof line nor exterior finish. 147 August 11, 1997 The following were heard: Roger Deters, Norcostco, Inc., stated they want to build a warehouse or distribution center or sell to MNDOT or the City. When the State rebuilds TH 100, Norcostco will have no access and there will be a 20 to 35 ft. high sound barrier. It would cost $525,000 to build a retail type building for a warehouse area. For 13 years the north end of the property has flooded --the culvert is broken. Planner Peaslee stated they needed pictures of similar buildings. Robert Costigan, 3224 Welcome Ave. N., inquired how tall the building would be (25 ft. above ground) and if there would be windows on the west side of the building (no windows) --had no objection to the building but did not like the ground cover ivy that has moved to the residential area. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Krueger to temporarily table the discussion of Application #97-13.3 for a site plan review (Section 520 of the Crystal City Code) to expand the warehouse space at 3203 Vera Cruz Avenue North as submitted by Norcostco, Inc., 3203 Vera Cruz Avenue North, Crystal, MN 55422. Motion carried. 4. Discussion regarding the northeast corner of West Broadway and Bass Lake Road. Lois Degendorfer, 6309 Brentwood Ave. N., wanted the City to take care of the fence they put up. City trucks do some of the damage as do other trucks in the area. Robert Bellos, 6320 Brentwood Ave. N., felt there should be a 30 min. parking zone for loading and no parking in the alley. There are dumpsters in the alley with no enclosures. Moved by Commissioner Krueger and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to adjourn. Motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m. Chair Magnuson Secretary Lundeen I September 8, 1997 CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following present: Elsen, Kamp, Koss, Krueger, Magnuson, and Nystrom; the following were absent: Maloney and Von Rueden; also present were Community Development Director Norris and Planner Peaslee. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Krueger to approve the minutes of the August 11, 1997 meeting. Motion carried. Chair Magnuson noted that with Commissioner Lundeen's resignation from the Commission a new Secretary is needed. Motion by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissiodkamp to elect Commissioner Nystrom as Secretary. Chair Magnuson called for further nominations and there being none, called the motion. Motion carried. 2. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97-13.3 for a site plan review as subnvtted by Norccstco, Inc_ at 3203 Vera Cruz Avenue North_ Planner Peaslee reviewed the status of the application and his communications with Mr. Deters. The recommendation is to deny the application without prejudice, so Deters can reapply if he chooses to without waiting one year. The Planning Commission asked about the status of the Highway 140 project. Moved by Commissioner Koss and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Koss and seconded by Commissioner Krueger to recommend to the City Council to deny without prejudice Application #97-13.3 for a site plan review (Section 520 of the Crystal City Code) to expand the warehouse space at 3203 Vera Cruz Avenue North as submitted by Norcostco, Inc., 3203 Vera Cruz Avenue North, Crystal, MN 55422. Motion carried. 3. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97-15.9 for a variance of 9 feet in the required 68 foot front setback as submitted by James and Anita Lutgen, 5117 - 35th Avenue North. Planner Peaslee reviewed the application; suggested the shed could be moved to be conforming. The Planning Commission asked whether the shed could be built on a filled area. Jim Lutgen, 5117 - 35th Avenue North, explained the problems with flooding in the rear yard and the pie shape of the yard are reasons for the variance. 149 '15C September 8, 1997 Commissioner Elsen noted that because of the flooding issue, Mr. Lutgen's request makes sense. Commissioner Nystrom noted the yard is well-maintained and the shed is hidden by a privacy fence. Motion by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Koss to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Kamp to recommend to the City Council to approve a variance of 9 feet in the required 68 foot front setback (Section 515.07. Subd. 5 b), to retain a 12 ft. x 16 ft. shed in its present location at 5117 - 35th Avenue North, P.I.D. #07-029-24-22-0056 as submitted by James and Anita Lutgen, 5117 - 35th Avenue North. The findings of fact are, The proposed variance will not: a. impair an adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property; b. unreasonably increase the congestion in public streets; c. increase the danger of fire or otherwise endanger the public safety; d. unreasonably diminish or impair established property values within the neighborhood, or in any other way be contrary to the intent of the zoning code; e. the hardship is caused by unique topography of the lot and the use cannot reasonably be built without the variance; ff, the plight of the landowner is unique to the property and not created by the landowner; g. the variance will not alter the essential character of the locality; h. the flooding of the back yard makes moving the shed to the back yard untenable; and i. the applicant has made application for a building permit for the shed. Upon call of the roll, the following voted in favor: Commissioner Elsen, Commissioner Kamp and Chair Magnuson. The following voted against: Commissioner Koss, Commissioner Krueger and Commissioner Nystrom. Motion failed. 4. Consideration of a rezoning and site plan for the old Suburban Motel and Arnold's Restaurant site. Planner Peaslee reviewed the proposed pian; the Commission noted concerns about parking, noise and access. Tim McShane and Loren Morey were present. Tom Jungroth, 5536, Xenia Avenue North was present to comment that the neighborhood wants to work with the developer and Planning Commission on any redevelopment of the Suburban Motel property. Moved by Commissioner Koss and seconded by Commissioner Elsen to set 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, Monday, October 13, 1997, in the Council Chambers, Crystal City Hall, 4141 Douglas Drive, to consider amending the Crystal Zoning Map and review of a site plan for Morey Fish Company. Motion carried. September 8, 1997 5_ Discussion regarding the alley behind Bass Lake Road. The Planning Commission reviewed a memo responding to questions raised by residents. The Commission asked that staff look into the condition of the fence, pursue posting the alley no parking, look into weeding/spraying along the fence and in the landscaped areas in the parking lots and check into the irrigation system. Bob Bellos, 6321 Brentwood, asked about the policy regarding dumpster enclosures and noted the military vehicles are violating the 30 minute parking limit. Bellos suggested putting a stop sign at either side of the alley by Eggie's. Lois Degendorfer, 6309 Brentwood, noted the fence needs replacing and weeding is needed. In the winter, the sidewalk along Elmhurst between the alley and Bass Lake Road is not plowed. Semi -trucks parked in front of Papa John's are having problems and trucks are making deliveries in the middle of the night which creates noise for residents. Tom Jungroth, 5536 Xenia Avenue North, appeared to let the Commission know neighbors are concerned about any redevelopment or use of the Wilshire Avenue/County Road 81 area which will bring increased traffic to the neighborhood. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Koss to adjourn. Motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Chair Magnuson {. Secretary Nystrom 152 October 13, 1997 ;.`�\�A: ►►\�hlll►CiZK� 1 1 `f.`Q� ► WHUM The meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following J present: Elsen, Kamp, Koss, Krueger, Magnuson, Nystrom and Von Rueden; the following was absent: Maloney; also present were Community Development Director Norris, Planner Peaslee and Recording Secretary Scofield. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom to approve the minutes of the September 8, 1997, meeting Motion carried. 1. Ed Krueger and Tony Kamp are the Planning Commissioners on the EDA Advisory Commission, and their term will expire December 31, 1997. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Nystrom that Commissioners Krueger and Kamp should continue on the EDA Advisory Commission for the year ending December 31, 1998. Motion carried. 2. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97-16.3 for the site plan review and #97-16.1 to rezone the property from B-3 and R-1 to I-1 at 5454 Lakeland Avenue North and B-4 to 1-1 at 5518 Lakeland Avenue North as submitted by Morey Fish Company. Planner Peaslee stated the property will be office, production, freezer and warehouse. There is room for 62 cars and future expansion. Four or five staff members have gone through the Golden Valley facility and were not aware of a fish odor. There is a concern about noise with diesel trucks and equipment and although berms and landscaping may help, the City would like a noise study. Bill Frank, President of Morey Fish Company, stated they may expand in the future with one or two docks. Can understand residents' concern about how the building looks. The Fire Department wants a road across the back (east) of the building. Dick Erickson, architect, stated the building to the east is 28 ft. above ground level or the equivalent of a two-story apartment building. Planning Commissioners were concerned with the five or six homes and multi -family building directly across from the site, drainage of the fish production area and the noise. Dick Erickson stated the drainage will go underground into the sewer. The fish cleaning waste will go directly into the City sewer system. October 13, 1997 The following were heard: John Froom, 5511 Xenia Ave. N., was concerned with future expansion, loading dock effect on residences and more traffic with semi trucks diverting onto Wilshire Blvd. Planner Peaslee stated this operation would not create that much traffic --not like a SuperAmerica station. Rolf Worden, attorney for Morey Fish Company, stated tomorrow he would set up getting a study with a noise consultant. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Kamp to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Koss and seconded by Commissioner Elsen to approve Application #97-16.3 for the site plan review and #97-16.1 to rezone the property from B-3 (Auto - Oriented Commercial) District and R-1 (Single Family Residential) District to I-1 (Warehousing and Light Industrial) District at 5454 Lakeland Avenue North, legally described as Lot 6, Block 2, Wilshire Terrace, and B-4 (Community Commercial) District to I-1 (Warehousing and Light Industrial) District at 5518 Lakeland Avenue North, legally described as S 266.7 ft of Lot 2 and S 266.7 ft of E 100 ft of Lot 3 Ex Hwy, St. Denis Acres, as submitted by Morey Fish Company, 742 Decatur Avenue North, Golden Valley, MN 55427. While the site plan review ordinance does not specifically require findings in evaluating a site and building plan, the ordinance does require the Planning Commission and City Council to consider the plan's compliance with the elements and objectives of the City's development guides, including the comprehensive plan, general building requirements, subsection 515.07 and storm water management plan. The findings of fact for rezoning are: 1. The proposal is consistent with the comprehensive plan in that it provides increased employment opportunities in Crystal, provides sufficient landscaping, screening and buffering from residential sites, provides a high level of finish and appearance from County Highway 81. 2. The geographical area is guided County Highway 81 Mixed Use. 3. The use will not tend to or actually depreciate the area in which it is proposed. 4. The character of the surrounding area is mixed commercial, residential and industrial surrounding a minor arterial road with approximately 20,000 vehicles per day. 5. There is a demonstrated need for such use in terms of jobs it might supply to the City. Plus the condition of a noise study be completed and presented to the City Council Motion carried. 154 October 13, 1997 3. Discussion of I-1 (Warehousing and Light Industrial District) and I-2 (Heavy Industrial District) zoning. Concerned with setbacks which could be zero from residential with present ordinance. Neighborhoods want fence or berm between residential and industrial usage. Outside storage is a problem such as at the Johnson Equipment site. Planning Commission wants staff to provide a suggested ordinance. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Kamp to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 9:17 p.m. Secretary Nystrom Motion carried. Chair Magnuson November 10, 1997 155 CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The regular meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following present: Elsen, Magnuson, Kamp, Koss, Nystrom, Krueger, VonRueden; absent was Maloney. Also present was Planner Peaslee. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Krueger to approve the minutes of the October 13 , 1997 meeting. Motion carried. 1. Consideration of a site plan review and a conditional use permit to allow outside storage in an I-2 (Heavy Industrial) District at 5141 Lakeland Avenue North (Johnson Equipment Company site) as requested by Burmeister Champion, 3776 West Broadway, Robbinsdale, MN. Planner Peaslee briefed the Planning Commission on Norb Johnson's request for a site plan review and conditional use permit. Burmeister Champion wants to use the Johnson equipment site for reclamation of electrical components from power poles. The tops of the power poles are sawed off and then dumped in 40 yard containers. The containers are brought to the reclamation site, stored outside and then brought inside for reclamation. Norb Johnson stated that all other uses would disappear by June, except for Scott's Auto and the proposed Burmeister Champion. Outside storage would be limited to one specific area, about one fifth of what has been used in the past. Scott's customer cars will be on the site, but no wrecked or inoperable cars will be on the site. Commissioner Nystrom wondered who would be in charge of the site. Johnson said he would be responsible for the site. In addition Scott's Auto and Burmeister Champion would be responsible, each for their portion of the site. Moved by Commissioner Kamp and seconded by Commissioner Von Rueden to set a public hearing before the Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, Monday, December 8, 1997, to consider the request of Burmeister Champion for a site plan review and a conditional use permit to allow outside storage in an I-2 (Heavy Industrial) District (Section 515.39, Subd. 4 a) at 5141 Lakeland Avenue North, P.I.D. #09-118-21-24- 0002 (Johnson Equipment Company site). Motion carried. 2. Discussion of I-1 (Warehousing and Light Industrial District) and I-2 (Heavy Industrial District) zoning. Planner Peaslee presented information on setback, screening and buffer yard requirements that have been developed by a neighboring city, New Hope, and an inner ring suburb, St. Louis Park. The Planning Commission felt that New Hope's setback requirements would be too restrictive for Crystal. The Planning Commission requested the staff analyze the CUB site plan to determine how it would measure up against St. Louis Park's buffer yard requirements. 156 November 10, 1997 The Planning Commission also suggested looking at residential landscaping requirements for new houses or at least on lots the EDA sells. The Planning Commission also suggested reviewing the City's boulevard tree planting requirements to permit more trees to be planted in the boulevard. The City should also consider a community tree planting effort, perhaps in conjunction with Arbor Day. 3. Information on New Hope Housing Redevelopment Project. The Planning Commission received information about this project. 4. Information regarding the alley behind Bass Lake Road. The Planning Commission received information on investigations into this area. Moved by Commissioner Elsen and seconded by Commissioner Kamp to adjourn. Motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m. Chair Magnuson Secretary Nystrom December 8, 1997 CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES The regular meeting of the Crystal Planning Commission convened at 7:00 p.m. with the following present: Eisen, Kamp, Koss, Krueger, Magnuson, Maloney, Nystrom and VonRueden. Also present were Planner Peaslee and Recording Secretary Scofield. Moved by Commissioner Eisen and seconded by Commissioner Krueger to approve the minutes of the November 10 , 1997 meeting. Motion carried. 1. Chair Magnuson declared this was the time and the place as advertised for a public hearing to consider Application #97-17.3 for the site plan review and Application #97-17.4 for a conditional use permit to allow outside storage in an I-2 (Heavy Industrial) District at 5141 Lakeland Avenue North (Johnson Equipment Company site) as submitted by Burmeister Champion Services, 3776 West Broadway, Robbinsdale, MN. Planner Peaslee stated Burmeister Champion would be doing recycling and reclaiming components for NSP. It would not be acceptable unless the owner gets rid of all the other outside storage by June 1, 1998. Norb Johnson, owner of 5141 Lakeland Ave. N. property, has not had use of the property. He expanded the outside storage, Has to give small contractors time to relocate_ The tree line effectively screens from the west. Dumpsters can look like semi trailers. Lon Thimjon of Burmeister Champion Services stated they are located on the main street of Robbinsdale. NSP is trying to cut costs. The containers would be moving in and out. Has a three-year contract. No one appeared in opposition. Moved by Commissioner Koss and seconded by Commissioner Krueger to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Moved by Commissioner Koss and seconded by Commissioner Eisen to recommend to the City Council to approve Application ##97-17.3 for the site playa review and #97-17A for a Conditional use permit to allow outside storage in an 1_2 (Heavy Industrial) District (Section 515.39, Subd. 4 a) at 5141 Lakeland Avenue North, P1D. 909-118-21µ24-0002 (Johnson Equipment Company site), as submitted by Burmeister Champion Services, 3776 West Broadway, Robbinsdale, MN 55422. Subject to the following conditions: 1, Outside storage is limited to a 60' by 240' area on the north side of the property. The storage area shall be marked out on the pavement by painted stripes. 1rI 158 December 8, 1997 2. Storage is limited to containers or semi trailers in good serviceable condition and may be used only for the purposes of recycling electrical components. Containers shall be covered with a tarpaulin at all times. Storage shall be limited to the principal tenant. 3. All other storage on the site shall be discontinued by June 1, 1998. 4. The property owner and applicant shall execute a site plan agreement and provide a financial guarantee to assure that the outside storage area will be marked and maintained. 5. The Conditional Use Permit shall expire in three years. Motion carried. 2. Discussion of I-1 (Warehousing and Light Industrial District) and I-2 (Heavy Industrial District) zoning. Planner Peaslee proposes combining I-1 and I-2 into one ordinance. St. Louis Park substitutes trees for fences. In looking at CUB and using St. Louis Park ordinance it is classified as land use intensity of five and needs a Class D buffer yard. Landscaping and screening are very important in order to be successful. Use does not apply to Morey Fish Company proposal. Moved by Commissioner Kamp and seconded by Commissioner Elsen to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m. Motion carried. Motion carried. Chair Magnuson f, a Secretary Nystrom CRYSTAL PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING JANUARY 12, 1998 CANCELLED