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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015 10-01 PCM MINUTES F THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION F THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY OF ENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA OCTOBER , 2015 1. CALL TO ORDER The Planning Commission meeting was called to order by Chair Christensen at 7:02 p.m. 2. LL CAL Chair Randy Christensen, Commissioners Alexander Koenig, Carlos Morgan (arrived at 7:07 p.m.), Stephen Schonning, Rochelle Sweeney, and. Susan Tade were present. Commissioner John MacMillan was absent and excused. Also present were Secretary to the Planning Commission Tim Benetti, Director of Business & Development Gary Eitel, and Denise Bosch, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA There was a motion by Commissioner Tade, seconded by Commissioner Schonning, to approve the Agenda for the October 1, 2015 meeting. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES—SEPTEMBER 17, 2015 Chair Christensen requested a correction to Page 2, Paragraph 4 indicating as follows: Chair Christensen commented he actually wanted to state that he "liked that they were going to keep the base of the sign." Secretary to the Planning Commission Tim Benetti requested that Commissioners approve the following addition to the minutes, also noted on Page 2, last paragraph: "(Addendum Note by PC Secretary: Mr. Al Franz, Franz Engineering, 2781 Xerxes Avenue North, called the City's Business and Development Department on September 16, 2015 to state he has no objections to the new DMS sign requested by the applicants—Spiritual Life Church)." There were no other changes or additions to the minutes. Following this discussion, there was a motion by Commissioner Schonning, seconded by Commissioner Koenig, to approve the minutes of the September 17, 2015 meeting as amended in the packet. The motion passed. 5. CHAIR'S EXPLANATION Chair Christensen explained the Planning Commission's role as an advisory body. One of the Commission's functions is to hold public hearings. In the matters concerned in these hearings, the Commission makes recommendations to the City Council. The City Council makes all final decisions in these matters. PC Minutes 10-1-15 _1_ 6e PLANNING APPLICATION ITEMS 6.a.) CONSIDERATION OF A NEW PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FOR THE OPPORTUNITY SITE ONLY, DEVELOPED UNDER THE STATEWIDE HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (SHIP) GRANT THROUGH INC OUNTY, AND AS PART OF THE CITY'S ON-GOING ACTIVE LIVING PROGRAM. Mr. Benetti provided information regarding the new planning and development application for the Opportunity Site Only, including the background and intent. He asked the Planning Commission to discuss and formulate an official recommendation of approval to the City Council regarding the Active Living Design Guidelines for the Opportunity Site, specifically a proposed Planning and Development Application with Checklist for the Opportunity Site Only. Commissioner Morgan asked Mr. Benetti to provide examples of items that a developer might not be interested in or be able to fulfill. Mr. Benetti provided examples and stated that the higher score, the more willing the Planning Commission would be willing to accommodate developer's requests. He stated that there are a lot of opportunities to work with developers and he pointed out that the City is going to have the controlling interest in most of the redevelopment of this area, and will be partnering with the developer or developers of this site. Commissioner Tade asked who actually fills out the checklist. Mr. Benetti replied that the City will present the checklist to the developer and then the developer will fill it out. When the City analyzes the plans, it will have discretion to check or uncheck the boxes. He stated that this is part of the Active Living initiative. Commissioner Morgan stated that the process is exciting. Mr. Benetti agreed and stated that this was the best alternative because they did not want to develop a specialized or exclusive ordinance just for this site, and the planners have met the obligations of the grant program. Commissioner Morgan asked under what circumstances would metro cities that do not share a border work together. Chair Christensen asked that this question be addressed under the discussion portion of the meeting. The Commissioners agreed. Chair Christensen asked if there was a reason it was weighted the way it was. Mr. Benetti replied that the numbers were completely arbitrary and the grant advisors and the executive committee approved it. Chair Christensen suggested charging stations for electric cars and stated that the City might want to incorporate this into the developer's plan because it is expensive to install retroactively. Director of Business & Development Gary Eitel stated that the focus of the grant was not about "being green" but a way to get people out of their car and more active by walking, biking or PC Minutes 10-1-15 -2- other similar non-vehicle activities. He stated that the checklist is a guideline that will be given to the developer to include in their design process. Mr. Christensen stated that people who are interested in active living would be the same individuals more conscious about energy conservation; and he asked planning staff to keep this in mind as the design process progresses. He asked if this checklist was only for this site or is it a model to be extended to other developments. Mr. Benetti stated that for now, the City is looking at just this site. Mr. Eitel stated that this is the Opportunity Site for the City in the heart of the commerce center. Commissioner Koenig asked if the City was trying to achieve walking scores and sidewalk scores similar to the City of Minneapolis. Mr. Benetti answered affirmatively and stated that the checklist is to encourage active living and not a mandate. Commissioner Koenig asked about the Travel Demand Policy. Mr. Benetti replied that the Travel Demand Policy is geared for the larger sites and requires the owner to file an annual report that demonstrates how developers manage traffic coming to and from their sites. The purpose is to lessen or address the impact upon the adjacent roadway systems and any connecting systems, including walkways and trails, Mr. Eitel stated that the general idea of the policy is addressed toward employees and employers with more than 200 spaces or larger employee forces, which will require a consultant. It is a policy that will bring attention and awareness to the fact that there needs to be more thought about how we individually are loading the transportation system. Commissioner Koenig asked about police bike patrol program. Mr. Benetti replied it is a program that was initiated by the police department with the encouragement of the bicycle advocacy group (as part of the Hennepin County/City SHIP Grant program). Mr. Benetti also stated that the point of the patrol was to show that the City was a role model for active living. Commissioner Koenig stated that areas designed for walking are usually built so that vehicles are not able to travel efficiently, so there would be a need for bikes. Mr. Eitel stated that the bike patrol was building upon an existing program. Commissioner Schonning stated that he was glad something like this is in place and it is a value- added document. He referred to Shingle Creek Crossing and suggested adding the word "convenient" to the checklist language that talks about safe access to crosswalks. He stated that this checklist addresses some great points for active living access. Commissioner Sweeney asked about crosswalk signs for this site. Mr. Benetti replied that the crosswalks will have proper signage and be striped. Commissioner Sweeney stated that not all crosswalks have signs. Mr. Eitel stated that the sign is an advisory sign. PC Minutes 10-1-15 -3- Commissioner Sweeney stated that the purpose of the sign is for the driver to be cognizant that an area has high foot-traffic. Chair Christensen stated that striping and signage is already included in the checklist. Mr. Eitel stated that it was a good suggestion to incorporate advisory signs into the checklist. Chair Christensen asked about mass transit connectivity under item C in the introduction. Mr. Benetti replied that the City is not asking for mass transit systems to be installed within the area. Chair Christensen stated that he wants to make sure that it is clear that this checklist is only for the Opportunity Site. He asked if that was going to cause a. problem. Mr. Eitel stated that this was a good comment and asked if the City should consider implementing the guidelines city- wide. Chair Christensen stated that he wants to suggest asking if the checklist should be implemented city-wide. Mr. Eitel stated that he didn't think there would be additional funding for this. Commissioner Koenig asked if there was an incentive for developers. Mr. Benetti replied that if Hennepin County has grant dollars available or other funding sources to assist developers/developments in the future, the developer could tap into those funds; and if the City has any available TIF funding, this could be used to help fund a project. Commissioner Koenig stated that another incentive would be that they could market the fact that they are participating in the active living initiative. Mr. Benetti stated that another incentive would be to allow the developer to reduce parking ratios so they can save costs. Chair Christensen suggested that a comment be added to the recommendation to the City Council that the Planning Commission felt that the checklist could be used city-wide as an awareness tool. Mr. Benetti stated that these guidelines can be incorporated into the City's comprehensive plan and that Commissioners should expect to see language regarding this in the comprehensive plan. Chair Christensen suggested using the guidelines as a way to determine who to give TIF money to. ACTION TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE NEW PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FOR THE OPPORTUNITY SITE ONLY DEVELOPED UNDER THE STATEWIDE HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (SHIP) GRANT THROUGH HENNEPIN COUNTY AND AS PART OF THE CITY'S ON-GOING ACTIVE LIVING PROGRAM PC Minutes 10-1-15 -4- There was a motion by Commissioner Morgan, seconded by Commissioner Schonning, to Recommend Approval of the New Planning and Development Application for the Opportunity Site Only, Developed Under the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) Grant Through Hennepin County, and as Part of the City's On-Going Active Diving Program and to Recommend that the Application be Utilized for Other Opportunity Sites in the City. Noting in favor: Chair Christensen, Commissioners Koenig, Morgan, Schonning, Sweeney, and Tade. And the following voted against the same. None The motion passed unanimously. The Council will consider the recommendation at its October '12, 2015 meeting. 7. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7.a.) COMMISSIONER MORGAN'S REQUEST FOR DISCUSSION ON HOW METRO CITIES THAT DO NOT SNARE A BOUNDARY WORD TOGETHER Mr. Eitel explained that Hennepin County approached the Cities of Hopkins and Brooklyn Center because they are first ring communities; are part of the Three River District; and because results of a health survey showed the City could use more active living. Commissioner Morgan asked how many people were surveyed. Mr. Eitel did not know the answer. Commissioner Morgan asked about how cities that do not share boundaries work together. Mr. Eitel stated that generally cities are competitive but there is a mutual aid program between fire and police departments, etc. He stated that for the most part there is a market and cities compete for that market. 7. .) CONCEPT PLAN OF THE PROPOSED "THE SANCTUARY BROOKLYN CENTE " — SENIOR ASSISTED LIVING AN APARTMENT FACILITY AT 6121 BROOKLYN BOULEVARD (FORMER CA S/W/HEAT SITE) Mr. Eitel provided information on the proposed new senior assisted living and apartment facility. He stated that the City is the owner, there is a letter of intent in process, and on October 15t" the Planning Commission will be asked to consider a resolution regarding a tax increment district for the site. He stated that on October 26th, the City Council will hold a public hearing to look at creating a tax increment district and that without some assistance the project may not go forward. He also stated that planning staff will demonstrate that the site meets zoning restrictions and the City's comprehensive plan guidelines. He stated that sometime in November the developer will present their site plan. He discussed proposed green space and stated that these are things the PC Minutes 10-1-15 -5- City can encourage. He stated that he is suggesting that the old Luther lot at the northwest corner of Brooklyn Boulevard and 61" Avenue be preserved until they make sure there is enough parking. Commissioner Morgan asked about the potential shared parking arrangement. Mr. Eitel stated this is part of the Active Living initiative to maximize resources. He stated that the City owns the land and will convey it to the developer and provide TIF funding. If the property is sold, the City will be reimbursed the value of the land. He stated that he had trouble getting developers to come to Brooklyn Center because of the question of market receptiveness. Commissioner Koenig asked Mr. Eitel to explain. Mr. Eitel explained that events like the downturn of Brookdale and the poor reputation of the multi-family housing stock present a negative perception of the community, and it will take a long time to turn these perceptions around, but every day is getting better. Commissioner Koenig asked if surrounding communities have had more experience with senior housing projects. Mr. Eitel replied affirmatively and stated that there hasn't been a senior housing project developed in the City since the 1980s. Commissioner Morgan stated that it is good to look at assisted living with the aging population and there is a major need for geriatric services. He asked if the negative perception was used as a leverage tool by developers to get more incentives. Mr. Eitel answered that the perception is that the City is associated with risks and developers will make decisions to go with less risk. He stated that the focus should be on what the City is going to do in the future and redevelopment of the community. He stated he doesn't talk about the negative perception but recognizes the issue. Commissioner Koenig pointed out the change to the Washington Avenue area in Minneapolis. Mr. Eitel stated the need to take action to change and spoke about some of the changes taking place. Commissioner Koenig asked if there was a proposal or application for this site. Mr. Eitel replied that it has progressed to the point where it is going to be the template for the site plan. Commissioner Koenig asked about what is holding up the project. Mr. Eitel stated that the City wanted to see what the plan looked like and there is a letter of intent, but the developer has had financial challenges. Commissioner Koenig clarified his question, that it appears the developer wants to go forward, but wants to negotiate their terms. Mr. Eitel answered affirmatively and stated that the developer's focus has been to finish another site first. 7.c.) CONCEPT PLAN OF A PROPOSED NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT Y SAND COMPANY FOR THE OPPORTUNITY SITE Mr. Eitel provided information on the proposed new housing development. He stated that a. City Council strategic goal is the construction of apartment units on this site. He stated that strategy PC Minutes 10-1-15 -6- has been discussed with the developer and there is a Preliminary Development Agreement that will be considered by the City Council on October 12. The streets and sidewalks will be designed so they meet the Active Living guidelines and the developer will be given the checklist to help with design. He stated that the intent is to encourage interconnecting the buildings with walkways and conversation areas and used the Plymouth Millennium Gardens as an example. He also stated that by January 2016, they would like to have a plan that is consistent with the vision and moves to a final agreement and create a tax increment district to pay for streets, sewer and water. He stated that he would like to see something similar to the Hopkins Art Center built on the property and he talked about a road configuration that would include room for a bike path. Chair Christensen asked what the market break goal is. Mr. Eitel stated the goal is non-subsidy and that will be a challenge. Chair Christensen asked what other cities are providing at that market rate and how can the City get closer. Mr. Eitel stated that they are looking at competitive market rates and that other communities can't provide what the City can and it needs to build on the positives. Commissioner Morgan stated that there are not many places with as affordable housing as the City of Brooklyn Center and pointed out the affordability of living on a lake in the City. Commissioner Sweeney pointed out the City's easy freeway access. Mr. Eitel stated that the City needs to build on the positives and Commissioners discussed the advantages of the City's location. Mr. Eitel stated that the City needs to build more positives than its location. Commissioner Koenig asked if it is the intent to build a site similar to The Fountains in Maple Grove. Mr. Eitel stated that connectivity between the project and the common space is going to be encouraged. He stated that the City needs to have a developer say they can market a project and drive it to success. Chair Christensen stated that he doesn't want to lose a vision. He stated that the City needs to know the goal and what the City needs to compete. If it is going to compete it doesn't have to be same but it has to be close. He stated he is trying to see what the vision is. Mr. Eitel stated that they will come back to the Planning Commission with something on the Shingle Creek Crossing project. Commissioner Sweeney asked about the Kohl's property. Mr. Eitel stated that a plan will be coming before the Planning Commission. Commissioner Sweeney asked Chair Christensen if he was concerned that this opportunity site is a case where you build and they won't come. Commissioner Morgan stated he would like to see something different and innovative. PC Minutes 10-1-15 -7- Chair Christensen stated that he is still trying to figure out how to draw other communities here. He stated that unless we can draw from other communities, we will get something that can't sustain itself in a place where we already have poverty. Mr. Eitel stated. that millennials are coming here, they are spending money and they are an economic driver. He stated that he has offered Bass Pro the site and 25 years of TIF funding pursuant to Chair Christensen's request at a previous meeting. Chair Christensen questioned what the millennials are spending their money on. Commissioner Koenig wondered if millennials are less concerned with moving into an area known as a high crime area. They want to be social innovators so long as they have their own community and they are not concerned if they are surrounded with poverty. He stated that this area can't be built any other way. Commissioner Morgan stated that we should be playing up the City's diversity as a strength. He thinks the developers are looking at it as a risk but he believes it is a plus. Mr. Eitel stated that we have no choice but to embrace it and be an inclusive community. He pointed out the New Millennium Academy will be largely occupied by Hmong students. Commissioner Morgan stated that the City is lucky to have Mr. Benetti and Mr. Eitel. Commissioner Sweeney commented that the progress seems to be slow on the building of the academy. Mr. Eitel talked about the site progress. Commissioner Koenig suggested making a video of the building of the school for marketing purposes. Mr. Eitel stated that they will talk to representatives of the school about this suggestion. Commissioner Koenig asked about how the height of thestage was determined at the amphitheater. Mr. Eitel stated he didn't know. Chair Christensen asked about the comprehensive plan and educational opportunities to help Commissioners with that process. Mr. Eitel stated that there will be training opportunities made available to Commissioners. 8. OTHER BUSINESS None at this time. 9. ADJOURNMENT There was a motion by Commissioner Schonning, seconded by Commissioner Sweeney to adjourn the Planning Commission meeting. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m. PC Minutes 10-1-15 -8- STATE OF MINNESOTA ) COUNTY OF HENNEPIN ) ss. Certification of Minutes CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER ) The undersigned, being the duly qualified and assigned Secretary to the Planning Commission of the City of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, certifies: 1. That attached hereto is a full, true, and complete transcript of the minutes of a Regular Session of the Planning Commission of the City of Brooklyn Center held on October 1, 2015. 2. That said meeting was held pursuant to due call and notice thereof and was duly held at Brooklyn Center City Hall. 3. That the Planning Commission approved said minutes at its Oc er 15 2015 regular meeting. Tim Benetti, Secretary Randall Christensen, Chair PC Minutes 10-1-15 -9-