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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1975 03-31 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 STUDY MEETING CITY HALL March 31 , 1975 Call to Order: The Planning Commission met in study session and was called to order at 8 :05 p.m. , by Chairman Pro-tem Robert Foreman. Roll Call : Chairman Pro-tem Foreman, Commissioners Pierce , Jacobson, Scott and Horan. Also present were Director of Public Works James Merila and Director of Planning and Inspection Blair Tremere. Approve Minutes : 3-13-75 Motion by Commissioner Scott, seconded by Commissioner Pierce to approve the minutes of the March 13 , 1975 , meeting as submitted. Voting in favor were Chairman Pro-tem Foreman, Commiss- ioners Pierce, Scott and Horan. Not voting: Commissioner Jacobson, who explained that she was not presenf for the entire meeting. Motion passed. Review Site Amendments The first item of business was Consideration of to Application No. 74040 amendments to the site plans contained in (Gabbert and Beck) Planning Commission Application No. 74040 , sub- mitted by Gabbert and Beck, as approved by the City Council in July of 1974 . The item was introduced by the Secretary who explained that the applicant had made various revisions to the landscaping plans as well as to the grading plan for the proposed Westbrook Shopping Center, to be located in the area generally bounded by Brooklyn Boulevard and Xerxes Avenue , southerly to County Road No. 10 . He briefly reviewed a master parking layout which had also been sub- mitted by the applicant to demonstrate that ordinance-required parking could be provided on the site for the approved Center, but with an enlarged capacity restaurant, and presuming that the Northern States Power Company power line easement was vacated. The Director of Public Works then reviewed in detail , the nature of the landscaping changes , noting particularly the different sizes and quantities of plantings as compared to the originally approved plans . He noted especially, the use of spruce trees for perimeter screening purposes , and that the plan indicated two size ranges. It was recommended that the larger size be utilized throughout for that particular variety. He also reviewed in detail the changes in the lot grades , and the ramifications upon the berming and screening of the parking areas. He noted the original City Council concern as to proper screening of the parking area from Brooklyn Boulevard, and noted the effect the revised grades had upon the effectiveness of that screening. He reviewed cross sections of the elevations of the site, particularly along the westerly portion, and explained that with certain basic modifications the effectiveness of the berming and screening could be maximized. -1- 3/31/75 The Director of Public Works also commented as to the width of pedestrian walkways on the north and south side of the proposed structure, and recommended a wider walkway ---5 feet on the south and 6 feet on the north---which could be accomplished by altering the size of proposed planters at those locations. An extensive discussion ensued, and Commissioner Scott inquired as to the nature of the loading area screening on the west side of the building. The Director of Public Works commented that at. the time of the original approval , the precise location of external doorways was undetermined; but that the plans now indicated where the corridors and doorways would be. He explained that the screening consisted of vertical random height boards imbedded in the delineators. Chairman Pro-tem Foreman recognized Mr. Warren Beck, who represented the applicant, and further discussion ensued as to berming and landscaping. Particular concern was noted as to that area between the commercial center parking lot and the Brooklyn Center State Bank parking lot. Commissioner Foreman stated that there was a need to provide a visual break through the utilization of plantings , such as spruce trees , which perhaps could be set in line with the shopping center's driving lanes. Mr. Beck commented as to proper landscaping of that area due to the grade. Discussion also ensued as to the width of the sidewalks at the north and south side of the building and Mr. Beck stated that the walkways could be adjusted if that was the determination of the City. The Director of Public Works stated that as a matter of information, the area between the sidewalk and the boulevard on the perimeter areas, must be sodded and provided with underground irrigation per ordinance require- ments . He stated that this was not specifically noted on the submitted plans. A brief discussion ensued between Chairman Pro- tem Foreman and the applicant as to the reduced size of various trees from those indicated on the approved plans, as well as the expected growth rate and ultimate size of the proposed plantings. Various revisions which had been discussed, were indicated on the submitted plans with respect to landscaping and walkway width. Chairman Pro-te.m Foreman suggested that the developer work with the staff as to the precise dimensions and design of the perimeter berming and screening treatment. Following further discussion, there wasa motion Action Recommending by Commissioner Horan, seconded by Commissioner Approval of Amendments Scott to recommend approval of landscaping to Application No. 74040 and site revision to the plans approved under (Gabbert and Beck) Planning Commission Application. No. 74040 , submitted by Gabbert and Beck. The motion passed unanimously. 3/31/75 -2- Application No. 75007 The next item of business was consideration of (Ronald Lee) Planning Commission Application No. 75007, submitted by Mr. Ronald Lee. The Secretary explained that the applicant was seeking approval of site and building upgrading plans for the premises of the former Casey' s Market located at 57th and Logan Avenue North. He briefly reviewed the history of the premises and ex- plained that the applicant represented the Acme Typewriter Company. He said only a small portion of the floor area of the building was proposed for retail use , and the bulk of the area would be devoted to storage merchandise and parts. He commented that generally the intensity of the use appears to be well suited to the premises, where the structure is disproportion- ately large for the site. He commented that the primary concern had been maximizing the amount of parking available on the site, and that the staff had been working with the applicant in terms of designing the proper parking layout as well as basic upgrading of the landscaping. He briefly reviewed the parking layout and indicated that a maximum of 18 parking spaces could be provided per ordinance requirements. He stated that in relation to the proposed floor plans submitted by the applicant, there should be sufficient parking, primarily due to the low intensity of the proposed use . He recommended that a maximum of 1,000 square feet be stipulated for floor area devoted to retail sales. He also recommended that a certified lot survey be made, prior to installation of paving and curbing on the site to verify the boundaries. He explained that adequate survey data for the area had been available to determine the dimensions of the building and the parking layout. The Secretary then reviewed photographic data which indicated the proposed improvements to the structure, which had suffered from lack of maintenance and disrepair over the years. He noted particularly the recommended relocation of the main public entrance to the building, from the southeast corner to the southwest corner of the building facing 57th Avenue North. Chairman Pro-tem Foreman recognized Mr. and Mrs. Lee, and an extensive discussion ensued. The applicant explained the proposed improvements to the building and the nature of the proposed use. He stated that at this time, he would prefer to have the option of retaining at least one of the present entrance doors on 57th Avenue as a limited access to his parts and service department. Iction Recommending Following further discussion, there was a motian Approval of Application by Commissioner Jacobson, seconded by Commissioner No. 75007 Scott to recommend approval of Planning Commission (Ronald Lee) Application No. 75007 submitted by Mr. Ronald Lee, subject to the following conditions : 1. Building modifications including exterior lighting are subject to review by the Building Official with respect to applicable codes . -3- 3/31/75 2. Paving and curbing plans are subject to review by the City Engineer, who shall be provided with a certified lot survey of the premises prior to commencement of such work. 3. Site improvements shall include sodding of all unpaved areas and an underground irrigation system shall be installed in those areas. 4. A performance agreement and supporting financial guarantee (in an amount to be determined by the City Manager) , shall be submitted to insure completion of approved site improvements . 5. The amount of floor area devoted to retail sales shall be limited to a maximum of 1, 000 square feet. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting recessed at 10 :15 p.m. and resumed Recess at 10 : 30 p.m. The next item of business was review of a Review of Master proposed master plan for the Brookdale Shopping Plan for Brookdale Center mall area. The item was introduced by Center Mall the Secretary who explained that an increasing number of commercial occupancies had been established over the years in the mall area, and that as a result of recent concern for the extent of such operations and of the proposed addition of such establishments, a master plan had been developed by the Brookdale Center management at the request of the City. The Secretary briefly reviewed the submitted plan and indicated existing commercial occupancies as well as a proposed occupancy located near the entrance to the Dayton' s Department Store in the east mall. He also noted the location of various amenities which had been included in the original plans. In that regard, the Secretary commented that original approvals comprehended the mall area as being an enclosed open space with no commercial tenancies comprehended in that area. He noted also that the mall area had thus been exempted from parking calculations as well as from the requirement for automatic fire extinguishing system. He stated that over the years, various establishments had been installed, and some had been fire sprinklered, although certain areas were not. Chairman Pro-tem Foreman recognized Ms. Louise Lane, manager for Brookdale Center, and an extensive discussion ensued as to the nature of the established uses as well as the proposed refreshment business known as Olive ' s East to be located on the site of a former fountain in the east mall. Ms. Lane explained that the proposed use could be best described as a tea room consisting of approximately 60 seats, with an attached cluster of display booths or retail shops. She stated that the food service consisted of serving pastries which were brought in and heated on the premises in addition to the making 3/31/75 -4- of coffee and tea. She explained that the facility was intended as an amenity for the convenience of Brookdale shoppers , and was distinguished from a formal restaurant which might be expected to draw clientele to the Center for eating purposes only. The Secretary explained the need to delineate on the master plan, the boundaries of those areas which could be utilized for permanent or transient commercial purposes as a matter of avoiding congestion and providing necessary emer- gency exit capabilities. He stated generally, the established uses throughout the mall, were in fact, incidental to the primary uses, but there was a need to restrict through a master plan, the extent and nature of those uses. He recommended that those established areas not provided with automatic fire extinguishing system protection be so equipped The Secretary also explained the need to review and revise exit lighting provisions in the mall area, as determined by the Building Official. An extensive discussion ensued as to the nature of traditional , seasonal displays and promotions, particularly during the Christmas season, and the intended location of those uses in the future. Action Recommending Motion by Commissioner Scott, seconded by Approval of Master Commissioner Horan to recommend approval of the Plan for Brookdale Brookdale Center mall master plan subject to the Center Mall following conditions : 1. Proposed additions to or major alter- ations of the approved mall master plan shall be subject to City approval. 2. Automatic fire extinguishing system shall be extended to all approved areas cont- aining permanent enterprises as approved by the Building Official. 3 . Provision for other code-required life safety measures shall be made as approved by the Building Official. 4 ., All commercial uses , including transient entertainment, program and displays , shall be limited to those areas designated on the approved master plan. The motion passed unanimously. Review Draft Resolution The next item of business was consideration of Regarding Proposed a draft resolution regarding proposed rezoning Brooklyn Park Rezoning of property in the City of Brooklyn Park at the northeast quadrant of intersection of T.H. 169 and 73rd Avenue North. The item was introduced by the Secretary who explained that the resolution recommended disapproval of the proposed rezoning from "single family" to a "general business" use and that, upon ratification by the City Council , the resolution would be forwarded to the City of Brooklyn Park to be entered into the official record. He noted that a number of Brooklyn Center residents had attended the initial Planning Commission hearing on the matter, and that they would likely attend additional hearings . A brief discussion ensued as to the language of the draft resolution. -5- 3/31/75 Member Cecilia Scott introduced the following Resolution No. 75-2 resolution and moved its adoption : PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 75-2 RESOLUTION REGARDING PROPOSED REZONING OF PROPERTY IN CITY OF BROOKLYN PARK AT NORTHEAST QUADRANT OF INTERSECTION OF T.H. 169 AND 73rd AVENUE NORTH. WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes , the City of Brooklyn Park notified the City of Brooklyn Center of a proposed rezoning of that proper generally described as 7300 West River Road at the northeast quadrant of t intersection of T.H. 169 and 73rd Avenue North from R-2 (single family) to B-3 (general business) ; and WHEREAS, Brooklyn Center property owners within 350 feet of the subject property were notified by the City of Brooklyn Center of the public hearing held on March 12 , 1975; and WHEREAS , said hearing was attended by several persons so notified, and said request was deferred by the Brooklyn Park Planning Commission at the request of the developer; and WHEREAS, the proposal, has been reviewed by the Brooklyn Center Planning Commission with respect to established Comprehensive Plan and zoning of both communities, and with concern for retaining the residential character of the subject area; NOW, THEREFORE, BE I'T RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of Brooklyn Center: 1. That the Commission urges disapproval of the requested rezoning in consideration of the following: a. The predominant residential character of the area, as designated by the Brooklyn Center Comprehensive Plan; b. The single family residential character specified by the Brooklyn Park Comprehensive Plan, and the sub- sequent designated R-2 and R-3 zoning in the area; C. The zoning efforts and development approvals by Brooklyn Center to assure residential development consistent with the planning and zoning of both communities; d. The gross incompatibility, of potential high intensity commercial uses permitted in the B-3 district, with the established residential character; e. The concern for limiting the traffic through the neighborhood and potential for undue congestion at the subject intersection; f. The existing structure, formerly used as a school and municipal offices, would be better suited for less intense office-service activities, if the building is to be rehabilitated; g. Should the land be cleared, the appropriate use would be per the current R-2 (single family) zoning. 2. That this resolution upon authorization of the Brooklyn Center City Council, shall be forwarded to the City of Brooklyn Park for inclusion with the record taken on the matter, and for consideration in the deliberations thereon. The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by Member Deborah Jacobson, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Commissioners Foreman, Scott, Jacobson, Horan and Pierce, and the following voted against the same: None. Whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted. 3/31/75 -6- Dated: Secretary Chairman Other Business : In other business , the Secretary briefly re- viewed pending items which would be placed on agendas of upcoming meetings. In other business , discussion ensued as to the review of land use and subdivision policies in the Southeast and Southwest neighborhoods , and it was suggested that the staff develop inform- ation regarding possible revision of the R-2 zoning district lot size requirements . Chairman Pro-tem Foreman inquired whether a recommendation for a moratorium on all variances as to lot subdivisions in the subject neighborhoods- would be appropriate, and the Secretary responded that such action was not in order at this time . Adjournment : Motion by Commissioner Scott, seconded by Commissioner Horan to adjourn the meeting. The motion passed unanimously . The Planning Commission adjourned at 12 : 30 a.m. � % 'Chairman -7- 3/31/75 1 i