HomeMy WebLinkAbout1978 05-11 PCM MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY OF
HENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA
REGULAR SESSION
May 11 , 1978
Call to Order: The Planning Commission met in regular session and was
called to order at 8:05 p.m. by Chairman Gilbert
Engdahl .
Roll Call : Chairman Engdahl , Commissioners Malecki , Jacobson, Book,
Hawes and Theis. Also present were Director of Plan-
ning and Inspection Blair Tremere, Director of Public
Works James Merila and Planning Aide Laurie Thompson.
Approve Minutes: Motion by Commissioner Malecki seconded by Commissioner
4-6-78 and 4-27-78 Book to approve the minutes of the April 6, 1978
meeting and submitted. Voting in favor: Chairman
Engdahl , Commissioners Malecki, Jacobson, Book and
Hawes. Not voting: Commissioner Theis who was not
present at that meeting.
Motion by Commissioner Jacobson seconded by Commissioner
Malecki to approve the minutes of the April 27, 1978
meeting as submitted. The motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Pierce Arrives: Commissioner Pierce arrived at 8:10 p.m.
Application No. 78023 Following the Chairman's explanation, the first item of
(Brooklyn Center Industrial consideration was Application No. 78023 submitted by
Park, Inca . Brooklyn Center Industrial Park, Incorporated. The
Secretary stated the Planning Commission had reviewed
the application for Special Use Permit and Site and
Building Plan approval for a bowling alley to be
located on Freeway Boulevard, east of Shingle Creek
Parkway, at its April 27, 1978. He continued that
approval of the bowling establishment and restaurant
had been recommended to the City Council , but that
consideration of the proposed game room/recreational
facility had been tabled pending further review.
The Secretary stated the applicant had submitted a
letter outlining the management policies of the
recreational facility. He commented that, in previous
applications for special use permits for recreational
facilities, the applicant had proposed to occupy an
existing tenant space, while this applicant would
occupy a new building, and the recreational facility
would be incidental to the primary use of the estab-
lishment. He stated that the building was designed
for better control of the recreational games facility.
For example, he explained that the applicant had
indicated that the games could be controlled by a
master switch located at the main counter.
Chairman Engdahl stated that the applicant's letter
covered his concerns regarding the facility. He
recognized Mr. Jim Madden, owner of the bowling alley,
who explained that he intended to employ adult manage-
ment personnel . He continued that the primary business
of the establishment would be bowling, and therefore,
it was to the advantage of the management to keep the
electronic games under control so that the bowlers
would not be disturbed.
In response to a question from Chairman Engdahl , Mr.
Madden stated that the site improvements would include
bicycle racks.
-1- 5-11-78
Following a brief discussion of the requirements of Recommend Approval of
past approvals of recreational facilities, there was a Application No. 78023
motion by Commissioner Jacobson seconded by Commissioner (B.C.I.P. Inc. )
Theis to recommend approval of a Special Use Permit under
Application No. 78023 submitted by Brooklyn Center
Industrial Park, Incorporated, relative to electronic
and mechanical games, subject to the following conditions;
1 The Special Use Permit is issued to the
owner as operator, and is nontransferable.
2. The use is subject to all applicable
ordinances and regulations, including
special licensing requirements, and
violation thereof shall be.grounds for
revocation of the permit.
3. House rules and hours of local curfew
regulations shall be clearly posted in
the establishment, and shall be rigorously
enforced.
4. Provision shall be made for -a bicycle
parking rack located in a manner approved
by the Planning and Inspection Department.
5. The Special Use Permit shall be subject
to review on an annual basis.
The motion passed unanimously.
The next item of consideration was Application. No. Application No. 78026
78026 submitted by Harvey Stevens. The Secretary (Harvey Stevens)
explained the application was for a variance to build
an addition to a nonconforming structure at 5334 Fremont
_Avenue North. He showed a transparency of the general
area and noted that the property was located in the R-2
(Two-Family Zoning District).
The Secretary reviewed a transparency of a survey oil
the applicant's property. He explained that the structure
was noncomplying with regard to the front setback and
that it was located approximately 31 feet from the front
property line. He continued that the applicant proposed
an addition which would be within the ordinance set�ack
requirements. He continued that noncomplying structures
were relatively common in the Southeast Neighborhood,
and noted that the structures on the adjacent lots were
also set back less than 63 feet.
Chairman Engdahl questioned whether the structure would
have to be brought up to code. The Secretary explained
the Building Code provisions.
Commissioners Pierce and Theis noted that the proposed
addition was entirely within the setback requirements,
and Commissioner Pierce commented that, since the
proposed addition was located less than 10 feet from
the property line, no openings would be permitted on
that side.
Chairman Engdahl announced that a public hearing had Public Hearing
been scheduled and recognized the applicant. In re-
sponse to questions from the Commissioners, the appli-
cant stated that the addition was proposed for the
side of the house because of the room layout of the
house. He stated that the exterior finish would be
white aluminum siding which would match that of the
existing house. He stated the house was one -story and
that the roof line of the addition would tie in with
the existing roof line. He stated the shingles would
match the shingles on the existing house.
Chairman Engdahl recognized Mr. Rarig of 5340 Fremont
Avenue North who spoke in favor of the application.
5-11-78 -2-
Close Public Hearing Motion by Commissioner Jacobson seconded by Commis-
sioner Malecki to close the public hearing. The motion
passed, unanimously.
In response to a question from Commissioner Pierce, the
Secrets y explained that it was the policy of the Com-
mission to review all applications for additions to
noncomplying structures.
Commissioners Hawes pointed out that the lot survey
showed the addition to be approximately 28 feet in
depth, and that to meet the 35 foot minimum setback it
would hive to be somewhat less than 27 feet. Commis-
sioner lierce questioned whether setting the addition
back 35 feet interfered with the layout of the room.
The applicant responded that it would not, but that
locatin the addition flush with the front of the
house w uld somewhat simplify the construction of the
additioi . The Secretary explained that design con
siderat ons alone were not legal bases for granting a
variance.
Recommend Approval of Motion y Commissioner Jacobson seconded by Commis-
Application No. 78026 sioner 11alecki to recommend approval of Application No.0,
(Harvey Stevens) 78026 submitted by Harvey Stevens, finding that the
noncomplying setback is consistent with other homes .
in the mmediate, vicinity and with the existing set-
backs o houses throughout the general area of the
Southeast Neighborhood. Approval is subject to the
following conditions:
1 . Exterior finish of the addition shall
be compatible with 'that of the existing
dwelling.
2. The structure shall be brought into
code compliance as determined by the
Building Official under the Building
Code.
The motion passed unanimously.
-Application No. 78028 The next item of consideration was Application No.
(Robert Grosshans) 78028 submitted by Robert Grosshans. The Secretary
explain d the application was for a variance from
Section 35-400 to permit a house addition which would
encroaci into the rear yard at 6920 Lee Avenue North.
The Sec etary showed a transparency of the general
area, aid of a site plan of the applicant's property.
He expl fined that-the subject property was of tri-
angular shape and was unique in that, while it was
the las lot on Lee Avenue, it was not a corner lot.
He explained that this was due to the street config-
uration in the area where Brooklyn Boulevard inter-
sected he north-south and east-west streets at an
angle.
The Sec etary stated that the general area was one of
the "pr blem areas" which would be reviewed in Compre-
hensive Planning. He explained that the property
adjacent to the applicant's on Brooklyn Boulevard was
zoned C-1 and was presently contained single-family
dwellin s and a two-family dwelling. He stated the
houses vere rental property and that the properties
were ap roximately 127 feet deep. He reviewed the
ordinan a standards for development of C-1 property,
which iricluded a 50 foot setback from a major
thoroug fare, a 40 foot rear setback and a 35 foot
front g eenstrip. He stated there would only be 37
feet to use for building and that it appeared that
under s ch circumstances it may be difficult- to develop
° 04 uses. He stated the area would be reviewed in
further detail with the Comprehensive Planning.
-3 5-11-78
The Secretary next reviewed the applicant's site plan.
He noted that the lot exceeded the ordinancL minimum
standards for square footage, but that because,of its
configuration, the proposed 16' x 18' addition would
come within 17 feet of what initially appeared to be
the legal "rear lot line. He stated that in 1975, the
ordinance minimum rear setback was changed from 40 feet
to 25 feet, and that the applicant sought a variance of
approximately 8 feet.
A discussion ensued relative to the location of the
house on the property. The City Engineer commented that
the house met the 40 foot rear yard setback in effect
at the time it was built. He further explained the
proposed addition would be approximately 17 feet from
the "side" line, which is within ordinance standards,
and approximately 21 feet from the "rear" property line,
which would require a variance of approximately 4 feet.
The Secretary referred to a letter submitted by the
applicant which addressed the issues of hardship and
uniqueness He stated the applicant had indicated that -
with the proposed addition there would be a total build-
ing ground coverage of 1 ,672 square feet on the lot. `
He continued that, since the lot area was 13,964 square
feet, 88% of the lot area would be yard area.
Chairman Engdahl recognized the applicant and noted
that it seemed possible to build an addition the sane
area as that proposed within ordinance setback standards:
The applicant responded that a longer,` narrower addition
would cover the bedroom windows. He reviewed floor plans
of the house and proposed addition and showed that the
configuration he had proposed was the only feasible
alternative. In response to a question from Chairman
Engdahl , he stated no windows were proposed for' ths
east side of the addition.
Chairman Engdahl announced a public hearing had be_n Public Hearing
scheduled. No one spoke relating to the application.
Motion by Commissioner Pierce seconded by Commissioner
Malecki to close the public hearing. The motion passed-
unanimously.
A discussion ensued. Commissioner Malecki questioned
what the effect of granting the variance would have cn
the C-1 property line. along Brooklyn Boulevard. The
Secretary responded that'one effect of the variance
would be to lessen the buffering area between the
single family residence and the commercial area H2
stated the matter of the adjacent C-1 zoning had been
reviewed in order to bring a "problem" area to the
Commission's attention. He commented that the Commis-
sion may eventually review the possibility of rezoning
the entire block to a common zoning.
He pointed out that the residential properties along
Lee Avenue North, including the applicant's house,
were well maintained, while the rental property on
Brooklyn Boulevard could be characterized as
deteriorating.
Commisioner Pierce questioned whether the applicant
would be willing to decrease the size of the addition
in order to stay within the setback. The applicant
responded that the 16 x ,18 ft. addition was necessary
to accomplish his purpose. A brief discussion'followed
regarding the possibilities of changing the design of
the addition to meet the setback requirements. It
was the general consensus that such design changes
would be prohibitive.
5-11-78 -4-
Comniss over Pierce noted that the lot shape was
unique and no precedent would be set by granting the
variance. Commissioner Theis stated that the exterior
finish of the addition should be compatible with the
existind dwelling. The applicant responded that it
would be.
Recommend Approval of Motion ty Commissioner Pierce seconded by Commissioner
Application No. 78028 Book to recommend approval of Application No. 78028
(Robert Grosshans) submitted by Robert Grosshans, provided the exterior
finish of the addition be compatible with the existing
dwelling, for the following reasons:
1 . The lot is of unique shape due to area
subdivision and street design factors.
2. The request is within the intent of the
ordinance yard setback and variance
standards
3. The lot area substantially exceeds the
ordinance minimum area requirements for
interior lots.
The motion passed unanimously.
Application No. 78025 The next item of-consideration was Application No.
(David Brandvold) 78025 submitted by David Brandvold. The Secretary
introduced the item, stating the applicant sought
approval of the preliminary plat for the area at 69th
Avenue and Irving Avenue (extended).
The Secretary showed transparencies of the area, and
of the proposed plat. He stated the subdivision would
create nine single-family lots from three existing un-
platted parcels. He commented that when the Horbal
Addition to the east had been platted, 30 feet had been
dedicated for anticipated Irving Avenue. He stated
that Irving Avenue was no longer proposed to go through
to 69th Avenue. He explained that the proposed sub-
division comprehends the extension of Irving Lane to
the east, where it would curve to the north and connect
with existing Irving Avenue North.
The Secretary continued that a similar plat had been
approved by the City Council under Application No.
75033. He stated the only change from that approved
subdivision was a change in the width of the six lots
south of Irving Lane. He noted that the earlier sub-
division comprehended the two easterly lots south of
Irving Lane as being "corner" lots, and therefore,
indicated a 90 foot width. He stated that since it
would be recommended that the Irving Avenue dedicated
half-street be vacated, it would not be necessary to
have 90 foot width lots. He continued that the appli-
cant proposed a width of approximately 81 .5 feet for
all six lots. He stated that permanent half streets
are not permitted under the City's Subdivision Ordinance
and with the approval of this plat, vacation of the
street dedication would be recommended, in the future.
Discussion ensued relative to the proposed subdivision.'
Commissioner Pierce questioned whether the three parcels
were under common ownership. The Secretary responded
that the applicant owned all three parcels. Commission-
er Pierce also questioned whether the City could retain.
the 30 feet dedication as a pedestrian right-of-way.
The Secretary answered that it could be retained as
right-of-way or that easements for a pedestrian walkway `
could be required when the property reverted to the
Horbal Addition. He pointed out that the R-4: property
the east was currently substandard in width,..and that
return of the roadway dedication would allow for an
ordinance standard width.
-5- 5-11-78
He also explained that, since the apartments on the R-5
property east of the proposed subdivision had been built
before the current ordinance buffering requirements, the
applicant should buffer the adjacent R-1 property by
means of opaque screening to be installed after the houses
are built and with input from the new homeowners.
In response to a question from Chairman Engdahl , the
Secretary stated that all the proposed lots would exceed
the ordinance minimum standards in width and area. Com-
missioner Pierce inquired whether public utilities were
available. The City Engineer responded that they were.
The City Engineer explained that dedication of a "sliver"
of land on the lots along 69th Avenue should be required
as a condition of approval in order to accommodate the
future upgrading of County Road 130. He stated that
land had been taken from the Earle Brown Apartment
site and from the Brooklyn Center Industrial Park, Inca
property along 69th Avenue North.
Chairman Fngdahl questioned whether -the dedication would t.
affect the area of the lots. The Secretary responded
that the lots would still meet ordinance standards.
Commissioner Pierce inquired when the upgrading was to
take place. The City Engineer responded that upgrading
of County Road 130 was scheduled in the County's plans
and was anticipated to take place before 1984.
Commissioner Book stated he was concerned with providing
a pedestrian path from the subdivision to 69th Avenue
North He stated there were foot paths worn across the
vacant property at present, and that he foresaw their
continued use since using streets to reach the com-
mercial area at 69th and Humboldt involved a much greater
distance.
The Secretary stated that approval of the plat would not
affect the status of the street dedication and explained
that only a vacation action by the City Council would
revert the property to its previous owners. He explained
it would be possible to require a pedestrian easement
at the time of the vacation of the roadway. He noted
that there was a walkway easement provided in a similar
situation at 67th and Emerson Avenues to' the Humboldt
Square Shopping Center.
The City Engineer stated that since vacation actions ar^
not referred to the Planning Commission, notation of a
need for provision of a pedestrian easement could be
made with approval of the preliminary plat. In response
to a question from Chairman Engdahl , the City Engineer
stated that the cost of the street improvements would
be the developer's responsibility.
Chairman Engdahl announced a public hearing had been Public Hearing
scheduled and recognized the applicant. Commissioner
Pierce inquired whether the applicant expected to
develop the lots this year. The applicant responded
in the affirmative and expressed his desire to have
the plat showing 81 .5 foot width lots.
It was noted no one spoke 'relating to the application.
Motion by Commissioner Jacobson seconded by Commissioner Close Public Hearing
Pierce to close the public hearing. The motion .passed
unanimously.
Commissioner Theis inquired whether any park dedication
was required with this subdivision. The Secretary
responded that, although the State allows municipalities
to require park dedication with subdivision approvals,
Brooklyn Center had not required such a dedication and
had acquired park land through other means.
- 5-11:-78 -6
In a brief discussion concerning the street configur-
.ation of the subdivision, the City Engineer stated
that Irving Lane would be a full width street and that
a normal residential turning radius of 15 feet would
be provided where it joins Irving Avenue.
Recommend Approval of Motion by Commissioner Book seconded by Commissioner
Application No. 78025 Malecki ,to recommend approval of Application No. 78025
(David Brandvold) submitted by David Brandvold subject to the following
conditions:
1 . Final plat is subject to approval by the
City Engineer.
2. Final plat is subject to the requirements
of Chapter 15 of the City Ordinances.
3. The Subdivision agreement shall comprehend
provision for opaque screening along the
easterly portion of the subdivision adjacent
'to proposed Lot 1 , Block 2, which is con-
sistent with ordinance requirements and is
approved by the City.
4. Dedication of a sliver of land for the
69th Avenue right-of-way, as verified by
the City Engineer, shall be indicated on
the final plat.
5. Any future consideration by the City Council
of vacation of proposed Irving Avenue should
include the possibility of providing a
pedestrian walkway easement from Irving
Lane to 69th Avenue.
The motion passed unanimously.
Recess The Planning Commission recessed at 9:45 p.m. and
resumed at 10:05 p.m.
Application No. 77064 The next item of consideration was Application No.
(Gene Hamilton) 77064 submitted by Gene Hamilton. The Secretary
explained that the item was an appeal from the ad-
ministrative ruling by the Building Official that a
carport accessory structure erected without a permit
and attached to the front of the house extending 20
feet into the front yard setback at 6230'Lee Avenue
North cannot be permitted.
The Secretary continued that the application had
originally been considered at the November 10, 1977
meeting and was subsequently considered on December 8
and 15, 1977 and February 23, 1978.
He explained the applicant's contention that the
structure erected in the front yard was not a carport,
but a "canopy" which is permitted, under Section 35-400,
to encroach into any yard.
The Secretary showed slides of the applicant's
property and the structure erected thereon. Next he
showed slides which had been taken throughout the City
of various canopies, awnings and carports.
The Secretary reviewed the application, and stated it
was not a variance application to permit the carport
in the front yard, but was an appeal from the admini-
strative ruling that under the current ordinance, the
structure would not be permitted. He stated that the
current ordinance does not define "carports" or
specifically regulate their location. He added that
a carport is, however, defined by use and is an
accessory structure; and therefore, is subject to the
setback requirements for accessory structures.
-7- 5-11-78
He continued that a carport is differentiated from a
canopy. He stated that ordinances of other municipal-
ities had been researched, and offered composite
definitions for canopies and carports: A canopy is
an accessory roof-like structure which covers a
pedestrian walkway and is open on all sides except
where it is attached to a building; a carport is an
accessory roof-like structure located over, or designed
to cover, an off-street parking space which is enclosed
on not more than two sides.
Chairman Engdahl stated that the decision before the
Planning Commission .was whether the subject accessory
structure could be permitted to encroach into the
established front yard setback. The Secretary commented
that the significance of the Planning Commission's
determination was a precedent for interpretation of the
Zoning Ordinance's standards and intent.
Chairman Engdahl polled the Commissioners. Commissioner
Pierce stated it was his opinion that the structure was
not a canopy, but a carport, and as such violates the
current setback standards. He stated he was not in
favor of granting a variance because there was no
uniqueness involved, and was in favor of 'upholding the
Building Official 's ruling. He further stated that he
felt the Commission should discuss the possibility of
amending the Ordinance to permit such a structure to
encroach into the front yard.
Commissioner Book commented that there was no uniqueness
involved, that the front setback requirement was 35 feet
for any structure, that the carport is an accessory structure, and that he was in favor of upholding the
Building Official 's ruling. He continued that he felt
the issue of whether a carport could be' located: in the
front setback should be further discussed.
Commissioner Hawes stated that he had a yard, house,
and parking situation, but that, even though the appli-
cant's neighbors might approve of his carport, it way
not permitted by the current ordinance and he was in
favor of upholding the Building Official 's ruling.
Commissioner Theis questioned whether a canopy could
extend to the property line. The Secretary responded -
that it could extend to the property line, but not to
the street. Commissioner Theis stated he did not fee]
the structure was a canopy, and felt the Building
Official was right in determining it was not permitted
under the Ordinance.
Commissioner Malecki stated she agreed with the Building
Official that the use of the structure was a carport.
She also commented that her own situation was similar
to the applicant's, but that the structure was not
permitted under the Ordinance.
Commissioner Jacobson stated she was in favor of upholding
the Building Official 's ruling. She stated that carports,
canopies, and awnings should be defined in the Ordinance
to clarify interpretation.. She stated that she had no
objection to carports, but she did not feel they should
be permitted to encroach into the front yard setback.
Chairman Engdahl also stated he was in favor of upholding
the Building Official 's ruling, and that he was not in
favor of amending the Ordinance to permit' carports to
encroach into the front yard.
5-11-78 -8
Chairman` Engdahl recognized the applicant. The appli-
;cant ,stated that .he agreed with the Building Official 's
!requirement for a building permit. He explained that
he had researched the Ordinance and since there was
no mention of carports in the Ordinance, he felt the
structure could be defined as a canopy. He stated he
un erstood the current Ordinance restrictions, but
ur ed the Commission to'.reconsider amending the
Or inance. He stated that when he had come before the
Co ission in December, he detected some feeling among
th Commissioners that there would be merit in re-
co sidering the Ordinance standards. He quoted from
th minutes of the December 8 and 15 meetings to
su port his contention.
Th applicant reiterated his reasons for urging an
Or inance amendment. He stated that lifestyles had
ch nged since the 195)'s when the homes in his neighbor-
hood had been built. He continued that in the 1950's
single car families w re common, but that today it was.
common to have more t an one car, and that particularly
in a climate such as innesota 's, it was necessary to
have protection forte cars. He stated that, after
using the carport for the winter, he was convinced
there was a safety fa for involved; that the car was
frost-free in the morning and there was no visibility
problem.
He continued that, in addition to the safety factor,
carports could enhanca the aesthetics of a neighbor-
hood by breaking up tie "look-alike" appearance of the
houses on the street. He stated the structure was
useful and that it was harmi�ess. He noted that a
..petition had been submitted which was signed by all of
his neighbors indicating their support of his appli-
cation. He concluded by stating that the Ordinance
could be .amended_. to allow carports-such as his to
encroach in the front yard, but should clearly limit
the size and location of carports to. prevent any type
of hazardous situatio .
An extensive discussi n ensued relative to the possi-
bility of revising tha Ordinance. Chariman Engdahl
stated that he felt t e issue was City-wide in scope.
Commissioner Hawes su gested that there was some type
of "uniqueness" in th applicant's situation in that
he had a recessed dri eway and the carport was perhaps
not obtrusive. He pointed out, however, that the
rodinance standards have to apply to all similar
properties in the City, and that the Commission should
consider the impact of carports in other situations.
The Secretary explain 2d to the applicant the steps
involved in amending an Ordinance. He stated that, .if
it was the Commission's intent to recommend an
Ordinance change, the applicant would be permitted to
retain the structure pending the outcome of the
Ordinance amendment.
Commissioner Book questioned whether the applicant
could still seek a va iance. The Secretary responded
that he could, but th it the Commission had indicated
there was no uniqueness or hardship involved in the
application, and that it would be the applicant's
responsibility to pro a that a uniqueness and hardship
existed.
Motion to Recommend Denial Following further dis ussion there was a motion by
of Application No. 77064 Commission Hawes seco ded by Commissioner Jacobson to
(Gene Hamilton) recommend denial of A plication No. 77064 submitted by
Mr. Gene Hamilton and to uphold the Building Official 's
ruling that a carport accessory structure erected with-
in the front yard set ack cannot be permitted.
-9- 5-11-78
Commissioner Book stated the Commission should address
the issue of amending the Ordinance to permit carports
in the front yard setback. Chairman Engdahl polled the
Commissioners. Commissioner Theis stated he was in favor
of denying the appeal . He stated that carports in the
front yard setback perhaps could be allowed by special
permit only where it was determined by theCity to- be
the only possibility for the homeowner.
Commissioner Hawes was in favor of denying the appeal
and stated he did not recommend amending the Ordinance.
Commissioner Book stated he was in favor of amending
the Ordinance. Commissioner Pierce stated he was in
favor of denying the appeal , but felt that the issue
of carports in the front yard warranted further careful
review.
Commissioner Malecki also favored denying the appeal
and agreed with Commissioner Theis that perhaps carports
in the front yard could be allowed only by special permit
under specific carefully defined circumstances.
Commissioner Jacobson was in favor of denying the appeal,
. and stated that she was not in favor amending the
Ordinance. Chairman Engdahl agreed, stating he, too,
was opposed to amending the Ordinance.
The Secretary stated the Commission could act on the
appeal and direct the staff to prepare ordinance
language to be reviewed at the study session regarding
the encroachment of carports into the front yard.
Chairman Engdahl stated he was ready for a vote on Vote on Application
the appeal matter. Voting in favor: Chairman No. 77064
Engdahl , Commissioners Jacobson, Malecki , Hawes, and (Gene Hamilton)
Pierce Voting against: Commissioner Book. Not
voting: Commissioner Theis. The motion passed.
Motion by Commissioner Pierce seconded by Commissioner Action Directing
Book to direct the staff to prepare amendatory ordi- Draft Ordinance
nance language as discussed for review at the study; Amendments
meeting.
The motion passed unanimously.
The next item of consideration was Application No. . , Application No. 78029
78029 submitted by Meadow Corporation. The Secretary _ (Meadow Corporation)
stated the applicant site, and building plan approval
for the third phase of "The Ponds Planned Residentiil
Development near 73rd and Unity Avenues North. He
said the item was presented for informational purposes
at this time.The Secretary showed a transparency of the site showing
the 8 proposed phases of development. He stated that
Phases l and 2 were currently under construction and
consisted of two unit "condominium single family
attached buildings'. He continued that the applicant
proposed to develop Phases 7 and.8 as indicated on the
Master Plan in the third construction phase. He con-
tinued that standard townhouses of three or more at-
tached units were comprehended for this phase. He
stated that the applicant intended to rent the town-
houses, but proposed to plat them individually for
possible future sale.
5-11-78 10
- The Secretary explained that-a number -of revisions had
t �n "made from the or ginally approved Master Plan in
cl,'�ding a reduction o the total number of units from
114 to 112 units in P ases 7 and 8, and a reconfigur-
ation of the private oadway. He stated the applicant
would be submitting a proposed revision to the Master
Plan as well as a proposed preliminary plat for this
particular phase. He continued that the revision of
the Master Plan comprehends adjustment of the phase
lilnes ,since the proposed 112 units and related open
space had been designed within the approved Phases 7
and 8, but did not re ui're :all of the land within
those phases.
The Commission review d the site plan. The City
Engineer explained that one of the reasons for the re-
configuration of the hase was due to poor soil con-
ditions in the area.
The Secretary stated hat the application was presented
for the Commission's review and reaction to the design
layout. He stated there was a concern with the pro-
posed parking design, which was 2 open spaces per unit
in front of each unit and which was directly adjacent
to the required 15 ft. greenstrip resulting in paved
driveway in lieu of most of the greenstrip and street
boulevard.
A discussion ensued r lative to the parking. Commis-
si'oner Hawes question d why tandem spaces would not be
permitted. The Secre ary pointed out that this would
mean parking in the d iveway on the boulevard which
is not permitted. Comnissioner Pierce pointed out that
the proposed parking Jesign meant a loss of greenstrip
since the boulevard ii front of each unit would be
covered by the blackt p driveway. Commissioner Hawes
commented that tenants would be forced to back out onto
Unity Avenue, a publi street.
Chairman Engdahl recognized Mr. Duane Dietrich, who
stated that there was conceptually little change
between the proposed master plan and the approved
Master Plan. He stated the major difference was in
relocating nine units to the west side of Unity Avenue.
He continued that the landscaping proposed for the
revised Master Plan was the same as the original
Master Plan, but that the plantings would be relocated
to different areas.
Table Application No. 78029 following further dis ussion regarding the site plan
(Meadow Corporation) and the building elevations, there was a motion by
Commissioner Hawes se onded by Commissioner Pierce to
table Application No. 78029 submitted by Meadow
Corporation until the next meeting when the applicant
would provide an amended master plan and to permit the
.applicant to work with staff in considering amendments
to the parking provisions.
Other Business: In other business, th Commission briefly reviewed a
matter related to a proposed home at the northeast
corner of 62nd and Ca den Avenues North, and specific-
ally to the proposed attached garage locations. The
Secretary explained t at the property is a corner lot
and the layout propos d an attached garage on the 62nd
Avenue side, 35 feet rom the property line. .
He stated Section 35-! 30 states accessory buildings may
not be erected within the side yard adjacent to the
street of a corner to . He commented that the proposed
garage was not "withi " the side yard, but that one
interpretation of thi section is that accessory
buildings should not a on the street side .of a corner
lot - to assure drive ay locations as far from the
intersection as possible.
-11- 5-11-78
The Secretary reviewed the history of, this section and
suggested that, with the adoption of yard setback re-
cuirements over the years, this section was not needed.
[fie did recommend that consideration be given to adopting,
instead, minimum distance requirements for driveway r
openings from intersections. ,.
It was the consensus of the Commission that the proposed
layout was within ordinance standards, and that a draft
ordinance amendment.should be reviewed regarding the
minimum distance between corner lot curb cuts and
intersections.
Motion by Commissioner Hawes seconded by Commissioner Adjournment
Theis to adjourn the meeting. The-motion passed
unanimously. The Planning Commission adjourned at 12.25
a.m.
Chairma
5-11-78 -12P