PCAgenda_03Nov25 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Commissioner Ryan said there are two pieces to architectural integrity. Zoning is one; the other is the building code. The "hard trade off' is that, while people want the size now, it may not be so desirable later; prices may start to go down. He also raised the question of how the City would handle cases where people combine lots, tear down existing houses and build new, larger homes. It is not an unreasonable scenario, considering the advantageous location of Falcon Heights; it has happened in other municipalities. Commissioner Lukermann suggested that Falcon Heights needs to have a site plan review. Jones stressed that we do indeed require site plan review for every project that is affected by zoning; what we do not have is design review. Some communities do have this, as well as various levels of restriction on esthetics. Opening that "can of worms" could add considerably to the workload for Commissioners and Staff, as well as costs. It was mentioned that the University Grove and townhome associations within the City do impose design restrictions, but these are not part of the City Code. Commissioner Ryan said that although we've had complaints about garage heights (i.e. on neighbors' garages), we all need more storage space. What each of us wants individually may not be palatable to neighbors; a balance is needed. He also pointed out that when you buy a piece of property, it comes with rules. You also buy those rules; it is a choice you make when you buy. But "sooner or later everything wears out and needs to be replaced" -whether it is a garage or code provision. Commissioner Lukermann asked about the rationale for the 5000 square foot size restriction in the B-1 zone. Was this set up to recognize the existing pattern on these properties, or was it intended to restrict future development? Maher stressed the need to be consistent. The discussion turned in general to the code for B-1, and commissioners pointed out several areas that may be in need of updating. • SIC definitions: Are they still in use, or have they been replaced? • Public telephone booths (9-8.01, subdivision 4.e): Is this provision still necessary in the cell phone era? • Sidewalk sales: Is the restriction reasonable? Does it restrict outdoor seating? (Answer: no) The workshop was adjourned at approximately 8:35 p.m. C~ Falcon Heights Planning Commission Workship, October 28, 2003 Page 2 of 2