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PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
May 22, 1995
7 p.m.
•
ROLL CALL: Tom Brace _ Lee Barry _ Alex Hanschen _ Paul Kuettel _
Wendy Treadwell _ Betty Wilcox _
Sue Gehrz _
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
April 24, 1995
3. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
4. A public hearing on a request for a conditional use permit for additional sign
area at Falcon Heights United Church of Christ, 1795 Holton Street (not to
begin before 7:05 p.m.)
5. A public hearing on a request for a conditional use permit for additional
building height at 2129 W. Larpenteur Avenue (not to begin before 7:10)
6. A public hearing regarding the addition of the definition of "sidewalk sale" to
the zoning code (not to begin before 7:15 g.m.)
• 7. Adjourn
- ~
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING ~ `,-
MINUTES OF MAY 10, 1995
•
Mayor Baldwin convened the meeting at 7:02 p.m.
PRESENT
Baldwin, Gehrz, Gibson Talbot, Hustad, and Jacobs. Also present were Hoyt, Asleson,
Maurer, and Sampson.
COMMUNITY FORUM
There were no comments from the floor.
MINUTES OF APRIL 26, 1995
Minutes were approved as presented by unanimous consent.
CONSENT AGENDA APPROVED
Administrator Hoyt noted that staff had been able to find a lower bid for the top soil
mentioned in item C-6. Larson Excavating will provide the soil for 5900.00. There being no
objections from the council, this amendment was made to consent agenda item C-6.
Motion was made by Councilmember Gehrz to approve the following consent agenda. Motion
• carried unanimously.
1. Disbursements
a. General disbursements through 5/4/95: 533,289.63
b. Payroll, 4/16/95 to 4/30/95: 510,888.37
2. Licenses
3. Authorization to contract for consultant services to review and update the city's tax
increment capital plan
4. Authorization to proceed with landscaping plans for the lot in front of city hall
5. Authorizations for the city attorney to provide legal services related to the Falcon
Crossing property tax court appeal
6. Authorization to purchase park benches and waste receptacles
PUBLIC HEARING
PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ASSESSMENTS .FOR THE 1995 ALLEY
RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT
Engineer Maurer gave a brief summary of the final costs associated with the alley
reconstruction project. Assuming that some minor storm sewer work is performed, the final
cost of the project will be 5151,406.18. This works out to 522.58 per alley frontage foot to
be assessed to homeowners (the city pays 10% of the cost of alley reconstruction). This
amounts to 51 129 for a typical 50 foot lot.
• Mayor Baldwin opened the public hearing on this project at 7:14 p.m. There being no one
wishing to be heard, the hearing was immediately closed.
City Council Minutes
May 10, 1995
Page 2
•
POLICY AGENDA
CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 95-13, ADOPTING ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR THE 1995
ALLEY RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT
Administrator Hoyt noted that affected property owners had received notices of their final
assessment amounts due and that two responses had been received. The first was by
new owners Steven and Amy Burd, 1491 W. California Avenue; who had not been
informed of the pending assessment by their title company and are working with them on
this issue. The second response was from Harold Arneman, 1403 W. California, who
submitted a formal protest to his assessment amount, claiming that he should not be
assessed the full amount on his corner lot due to a past higher assessment.
Mayor Baldwin noted that the corner lot issue had been discussed at a previous council
meeting and the council had determined that it would be inappropriate to adjust the
assessment amounts on corner lots.
Motion was made by Councilmember Gibson Talbot to adopt Resolution 95-13 as
presented, with no adjustments to any property's assessment amounts. Motion passed
unanimously.
CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 95-14, AWARDING A BID FOR THE 1995 ALLEY •
RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT TO F.M. FRATTALONE
The lowest bidder for the 1995 alley reconstruction was F.M. Frattalone, at S 1 1 1,306.55.
City Engineer Maurer recommended accepting that bid.
Councilmember Jacobs moved adoption of Resolution 95-14, awarding a bid in the amount
of S 1 1 1,306.55 to F.M. Frattalone for the 1995 alley reconstruction project. Motion
passed unanimously.
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ZONING CODE REGARDING GUN SHOPS AS A
CONDITIONAL USE IN A B - 3 ZONE
(ORDINANCE 95-01 AND RESOLUTIONS 95-12 AND 95-15)
Administrator Hoyt explained that over the past two years the planning commission and
city council had reviewed the business uses in the business district to make sure that they
are compatible with each other and with the neighboring residential areas. Stores that sell
firearms are the remaining use to be addressed. Firearms are a unique use in that the state
preempts the city from any control over firearms with the exception of permitting zoning
for firearms. This exception was created by the legislature in 1993. The planning
commission recommended allowing gun shops as a conditional use in a B - 3 zone.
Motion was made by Councilmember Hustad to approve Ordinance 95-01, Resolution 95-
12 (summary publication) and Resolution 95-15 (findings of fact). Motion passed •
unanimously.
City Council Minutes
May 10, 1995
Page 3
REQUEST TO AMEND THE CITY CODE TO REQUIRE LEASHING OF CATS
Jo Behm, 1417 W. California Avenue, requested that the council consider changing its cat
ordinance to require that cats be leashed. Unleashed cats are killing birds in her
neighborhood, spraying her front stoop, and harassing her small dog. Ms. Behm has
spoken to the owners and they are not doing anything about the problem.
Mayor Baldwin stated that it would inappropriate to use city ordinances to regulate the
balance between predators (cats) and prey (birds). In addition, enforcement of cat laws is
more difficult than dog laws, and would require the energy of the police department to
chase cats up trees and so on.
Administrator Hoyt noted that the ordinances that are already in place do make it a
violation of code to own a cat that destroys or defecates on other people's property. The
current ordinances do not, however, require leashing of cats.
Councilmember Hustad stated that all of Ms. Behm's concerns appear to be covered by
current ordinances with the exception of the killing of birds.
Councilmember Jacobs noted that cat ordinances are difficult to enforce even when they
exist and suggested that Ms. Behm continue to work with her neighbor to alleviate the
• problem.
CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE 95-02, DELETING FROM THE CITY CODE THE INTERIM
MORATORIUM ON COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Administrator Hoyt reported that the council's action on zoning for gun shops was the last
step in the city's review of the commercial development district, and that it would be
appropriate to repeal the commercial development moratorium from the zoning code.
Motion was made by Councilmember Jacobs to adopt Ordinance 95-02, deleting from the
city code the interim moratorium on commercial development. Motion passed
unanimously.
CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 95-16, SUPPORTING THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF
CITIES' LOBBYING EFFORTS REGULATED TO THE ASSAULT WEAPONS BAN
Mayor Baldwin reported that the National League of Cities, Falcon Heights' national lobbying
organization, has requested the support of its member cities. They have asked that the city
pass a resolution in support the League's opposition to the repeal of the national assault
weapons ban. The League has taken the position that the ban is a good thing for cities and
is proposing to oppose these efforts.
• Charles Peterson, 1591 Garden, stated that he was a lobbyist for the United Sportsmen of
Minnesota, although he was speaking as a private citizen in this instance. Mr. Peterson stated
that he is opposed to the restriction of guns and that it is unnecessary to pass laws that aren't
needed.
City Council Minutes
May 10, 1995
Page 4
U
Mayor Baldwin explained that the city is preempted from passing any type of legislation on
firearms with the exception of zoning. The assault weapons ban is a piece of federal
legislation, not local. The city council's role is to determine whether to support the efforts of
their national lobbying group.
Mr. Peterson stated his opposition to the city even passing a resolution of support, even if
they have no regulatory control. He also stated his opposition to the council's previous action
of zoning gun shops as a conditional use.
Councilmember Hustad said that he was uncomfortable with the council passing resolutions
of support or opposition over matters where they have no jurisdiction. He explained that he
is not necessarily uncomfortable with this topic, but rather with the process.
Mayor Baldwin explained that the National League of Cities has asked for support on this topic
in order that cities can show unity over a very controversial topic. Groups that are proposing
to repeal the assault weapons ban are very united and organized, so cities must show the
same unity.
Motion was made by Councilmember Gibson Talbot to adopt Resolution 95-16, supporting the
assault weapons ban. Motion passed with four ayes, zero nays, and one abstention (Hustad).
CITY INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS •
Councilmember Gibson Talbot noted the need for new Human Rights Commissioners.
Administrator Hoyt noted that 93 boulevard trees had recently been planted in the Northome
neighborhood as a result of a Unitree grant. She also made miscellaneous announcements
regarding upcoming city events.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:03 p.m.
Tom Baldwin, Mayor
Carla Asleson
Recording Secretary
•
MINUTES
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
April 24, 1995
PRESENT
Tom Brace
Lee Barry, Chair
Paul Kuettel
Wendy Treadwell
Betty Wilcox
ABSENT
Alex Hanschen
Ken Salzberg (LOA)
ALSO PRESENT
Susan Hoyt,Administrator
Carla Asleson, Planner
Sue Gehrz, Council Liaison
Eric Galatz, Attorney
Meeting was called to order 7 p.m. by Chair Barry.
Minutes were approved with one correction. On page 2, paragraph 3, the
sentence should read, The estimated project cost is $'~#~i.
PUBLIC HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE
OPERATION OF A SECONDHAND FURNITURE STORE AT 1532 W. LARPENTEUR
AVENUE IN A SHOPPING CENTER BUILDING, CHAPTER 9-10.01 SUBD.3(N)
Planner Asleson briefed the commission on a request from Mr. William Erickson,
• proprietor of Falcon Futons & Area Rugs store, for a conditional use permit to sell
used furniture out of the basement of the Falcon Futons store. He would rent
storefront space to advertise this portion of his business but actually would operate
out of the basement. The furniture to be sold would be obtained from area estate
sales.
She said the proposed use meets the definition of a secondhand goods store and is
a conditional use in the B-3 Snelling/Larpenteur Business District of the zoning code
(Chapter 9-10.01 subd. 3(n-. A conditional use permit goes with the property, not
the business and any change in the type of merchandise sold would require an
amendment to the conditional use permit. No objections from owners of nearby
property have been received.
Public Hearing opened at 7:06
Mr. Erickson, proprietor, said furniture, lamps, and knickknacks would be sold. He
would not deal in automobile parts, electronics, jewelry, precious gems, guns nor
engage in any pawning activity. He also stated that fire marshal had inspected the
premises and noted that 2 fire extinguishers are needed (one upstairs and one
downstairs), step in the basement and a hole in the wall adjacent to the steps
needs repair work done, emergency lighting is needed in the basement as well as
unlit exit signs over the doorway. These are being handled and he will be meeting
• with the fire marshal again on May 10.
• There being no one else wishing to be heard, the public hearing closed at 7:12.
After a brief discussion, which included compliance with the fire marshal's
findings, Wilcox moved and Kuettel seconded the motion to approve the
conditional use permit because the secondhand goods store is in keeping with the
city's comprehensive plan and the use with the recommended conditions will not
adversely affect the noise, traffic, health, or welfare of the surrounding
neighborhood with the following conditions placed upon the use:
1. The store be authorized to sell used furniture and household furnishings only.
2. The hours of operation be limited to 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through
Saturday.
3. The store shall not receive direct drop off of merchandise from members of
the public at these premises.
4. There shall be not outdoor storage of merchandise.
5. Any change or expansion to the type of used goods sold shall require an
amendment to the conditional use permit.
• REQUEST FOR VARIANCE OF 279.25 SQUARE FEET TO THE MAXIMUM
ALLOWABLE LOT COVERAGE FOR DETACHED ACCESSORY BUILDINGS FOR
1857 FAIRVIEW AVENUE, CHAPTER 9-2.04 SUBD. 2(b)
Hoyt summarized the property owner Susan Thimsen's request for a variance of
279.25 square feet from the 1,000 square foot maximum to have a total accessory
square footage of 1279.25 square feet in order to replace her existing garage. The
current garage is divided inside by a concrete wall that separates the garage
parking area from a workshop and allows only enough room to park one vehicle.
The entire existing garage would be used as a storage facility. There is also a
utility shed in the rear yard so the total square footage for the proposed new
garage, the existing garage/proposed storage area, and the existing utility shed
would be 1,279.25 sq. ft. (279.25 sq.ft. more than is allowed by code).
Hoyt said the Thimsen's have one of the largest lots in Falcon Heights (one acre)
so the amount of rear yard or open area filled up by the additional area of garage
and storage space will not significantly impact the residential character of the
neighborhood. The proposed garage is 23.25' x 24'.
Mr. & Mrs. Thimsen addressed the commission. They indicated that the current
access door for the existing garage would be replaced by a wall once the new
garage is built. Mrs. Thimsen said that they planned to build the new garage with a
• gabled roof and two dormers in order to blend in with the adjoining property to the
north.
• Staff recommended that this variance in lot coverage be granted because:
1) The residential character of the addition is in keeping with the residential
character of the R-1 zoning district.
2) The size of the proposed storage space is reasonable and the new garage is
of standard size.
3) The subject lot is unique in that it, along with a few other lots on Fairview
Avenue, are over one acre in size. A variance of 279.25 sq. ft. of lot
coverage by accessory structures does not detract from the amount of open
space available in the rear yard. This variance would permit the full use of
property rights.
Kuettel moved to recommend granting the variance with the following conditions to
be placed upon it:
1) That the existing garage be reconstructed into a storage area and not used
for living quarters, a home occupation, or for the parking of vehicles.
2) That the vehicle access door between the existing and new garages be
removed and replaced with a standard doorway opening.
• Seconded by Treadwell and unanimously approved.
PUBLIC HEARING ON AND CONSIDERATION OF THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO CHAPTER 9 SUBD. 1.02; PART 8 SUBD.2; PART 10 SUBD.2 AND SUBD.3
REGARDING GUN SHOPS AS A CONDITIONAL USE IN A B-3 ZONE
Hoyt briefly summarized the proposed zoning code amendments regarding gun
shops as a conditional use in a B-3 zone that were discussed at the two previous
meetings.
Chair Barry opened the public hearing at 7:35. There being no one wishing to be
heard, the public hearing was closed at 7:36.
After a brief discussion, Brace moved to adopt the following zoning code
amendments which would accomplish making a gun shop a conditional use at the
northwest retail corner of Snelling and Larpenteur Avenues in the B-3 Community
Business District.
Part 1 Chapter 9 Subd.1.2 -Definitions
67. Firearm: Any weapon (including starter gun) which will, can, or is
• designed to, or may readily be converted to expel any missile, projectile,
bullet or other mass through a barrel by means of explosives or gas or air,
• and any frame, receiver, muffler or silencer of any such weapon, but
excluding the following: children's toy guns, "BB" guns, antique firearms,
scuba guns, medical instruments, industrial tools such as stud and nail guns
and any replica of any firearm which replica cannot, is not designed to, and
cannot be readily converted to, expel any missile, projectile, bullet or other
mass through a barrel by any means.
68. Firearm, antique: Any firearms (including any firearm with a matchlock,
flintlock, percussion cap, or similar type of ignition system) manufactured in
or before 1898.
69. Firearms dealer: A person who is federally licensed to sell firearms and
operates a gun shop in which firearms are sold from a permanent business
location or any person engaged in the business of repairing firearms or
making or fitting special barrels, stocks or trigger mechanisms to firearms.
80. Gun Shop: A building or a portion of a building occupied by a firearms
dealer which has devoted some portion of its floor area to the sale of
firearms or ammunition.
153. Shooting Gallery: A covered shooting range equipped with targets for
practice with firearms.
• Part 8 Chapter 9 Subd. 2 -Neighborhood Convenience District
k. Other small miscellaneous retail shopping goods stores (excluding repair
...........................................
and service establishments ~~;~;~) having a maximum floor area of
:.:::.:;.; ::::::..............:..:...:........
1,000 square feet which sell food, apparel and small specialty... .
Part 10 Chapter 9 Subd. 2 -Community Business District
o. Miscellaneous retail establishments (SIC 59) including antique stores but
excluding fuel dealers (SIC 598) t'~?:i€t
Part 10 Chapter 9 Subd. 3 -Conditional Uses
i. Gun shops are a conditional use on the northwest corner of Snelling and
Larpenteur as long as the following conditions exist:
1) A minimum of 1,000 feet from any residential zone except for a
minimum of 150 feet from any residential zone when the
residential zone is buffered by a separate commercial facility.
2) A minimum of 750 feet from any park.
• 3) A minimum of 1,000 feet from any public or private preschool,
• elementary or secondary school or church.
4) The firearms dealers security standards as mandated by
Minnesota Statute 624.7161 and 624.7162 are met.
Seconded by Treadwell and passed unanimously.
CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED ADDITION TO CHAPTER 9-1.02 OF THE ZONING
CODE RELATED TO THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "SIDEWALK SALE"
Asleson summarized the current zoning code relating to outdoor sale. of
merchandise in a B-3 zone. Chapter 9-10.01 subd.5(d) of the zoning code
prohibits the outdoor sale of merchandise in a B-3 zone, except for "twice a year
for three days at a time as a sidewalk sale." However, there is no actual definition
of a "sidewalk sale" in the definitions section of the zoning code. To prevent a
misunderstanding in interpreting this section, she proposed the following definition
be added:
9-1.02 subd.2(151)
Sidewalk Sale. The selling of goods just outside of the business entrance
where the merchandise sold outside is similar to what is ordinarily sold inside
the business and the sales are managed and operated by the abutting
• business owner.
Asleson stated this would clarify that the sidewalk sale must be conducted by the
owner or proprietor of the business and would prevent the outdoor sale of
merchandise that is unrelated to the abutting business.
A brief discussion followed. By unanimous consent of the commission, a public
hearing was scheduled for May 22, 1995.
Meeting adjourned at 8 p.m.
Carla Asleson, City Planner
Dee Swenson, Recording Secretary
~~~~~
•
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
PLANNING COMMISSION
~y
ITEM: A public hearing on a request for a conditional use permit for additional sign
area at Falcon Heights United Church of Christ, 1795 Holton Street (hearing to
begin not before 7:05 p.m.)
SUBMITTED BY: Norman Broadbent, Minister
Warren West, Business Operations Associate
REVIEWED BY: Carla Asleson, Planner
Susan Hoyt, City Administrator
EXPLANATION/DESCRIPTION:
Proposal
Falcon Heights United Church of Christ proposes to install a sign on the Garden Avenue street
front at the require three foot setback (see attachment 1). The proposed sign resembles a real
estate sign with hooks to hang temporary signs highlighting key events. The height of the
sign's structure is approximately 5 1 /2 feet above grade and the maximum sign area
(assuming an 18" bottom clearance) is 12 square feet.
• Zoning Code
The zoning code permits churches, schools, and other institutions located in an R - 1 zone to
have up to 50 square feet of sign area (9-4.01 subd. 6 (e-). Due to apre-existing use, the
church currently has approximately 83 square feet of sign area in its two monument signs
located at the corners of Pascal/Garden and Holton/Garden. All requests for sign area above
the permitted 50 square feet require the issuance of a conditional use permit (9-4.01 subd.
6 (g)). In other city's codes, this might be called a "special use permit" rather than a
conditional use permit. Unlike a variance, where the applicant must prove a hardship in order
to exceed the zoning code, a conditional use permit must be granted if the applicant can meet
both general and special, reasonable conditions governing the use as determined by the
planning commission.
Section 9-15.04 subd. 3 (a111 1) of the zoning code requires that the planning commission find
that:
"The architectural appearance and functional plan of the building and site shall
not be so dissimilar to the existing buildings or area as to cause impairment in
property values constitute a blighting influence".
Response to public notice and mailings
The city published a notice on this public hearing and mailed letters to property owners within
350 feet of the property. To date, four property owners in the area inquired about the
proposed sign. After learning about the sign's size and location, none of the four callers had
objections.
•
• Analysis
The proposed sign is very similar to a residential real estate sign. The code allows real estate
signs up to ten square feet in area, making this sign compatible with other types of signage
in the neighborhood.
The church's intent for this sign is that it will replace the need for temporary signs on the
property, which are more likely to cause a blighting influence than professionally-made signs
made of a durable material.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends granting the conditional use permit with the following conditions:
1. The sign used shall not exceed 12 square feet of area and shall maintain a
clearance of 18" above the ground at all times.
2. The sign shall be kept in a state of good repair.
3. Should this property cease to be used as a church or a school, the conditional
use permit shall be null and void and the sign shall be removed if not in
compliance with the sign requirements for the new use.
This recommendation is based upon the following findings:
1. The use is in keeping with the city's comprehensive plan.
2. The use with the recommended conditions will not adversely affect the noise,
traffic, health, or welfare of the surrounding neighborhood.
• 3. The architectural appearance and functional plan of the building and site shall
not be so dissimilar to the existing buildings or area as to cause impairment in
property values constitute a blighting influence.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Diagram of the proposed sign and location of the property
ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Staff report
2. Questions of the staff
3. Questions of the church's representative
4. Conduct public hearing
5. Discussion
6. Motion to recommend approval of the requested conditional use permit with the
conditions as noted above
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PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
May 22, 1995
7 p.m.
•
ROLL CALL: Tom Brace _ Lee Barry _ Alex Hanschen _ Paul Kuettel _
Wendy Treadwell _ Betty Wilcox _
Sue Gehrz _
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
April 24, 1995
3. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
4. A public hearing on a request for a conditional use permit for additional sign
area at Falcon Heights United Church of Christ, 1795 Holton Street (not to
begin before 7:05 p.m.)
5. A public hearing on a request for a conditional use permit for additional
building height at 2129 W. Larpenteur Avenue (not to begin before 7:10)
6. A public hearing regarding the addition of the definition of "sidewalk sale" to
. the zoning code (not to begin before 7:15 g.m.)
7. Adjourn
•
~~~-~~
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
PLANNING COMMISSION
ITEM: A public hearing on a request for a conditional use permit for additional building
height at 2129 W. Larpenteur Avenue (hearing to begin not before 7:10 p.m.)
SUBMITTED BY: Lawrence Greenberg and Carol Kindschi, property owners
REVIEWED BY: Carla Asleson, Planner
Susan Hoyt, City Administrator
EXPLANATION/DESCRIPTION:
Proposal
Mr. Greenberg and Ms. Kindschi are proposing a 32 foot high (grade to peak) addition to their
existing home. The existing home, built in 1925 and before the adoption of the current zoning
code, is constructed at a height of 34 feet. The addition would house a master bedroom suite
on the upper floor and a "great room" on the lower floor. The proposed roof line is consistent
with the current pitch of the roof. With the exception of the building's height, the addition
meets all other requirements of the zoning code with respect to setbacks and lot coverage.
~~
Zoning Code
• The zoning code allows single family homes in an R - 1 zone to be a maximum of 25 feet in
height or two stories, whichever is less (9-4.01 subd. 4 (a)). All requests for additional height
require the issuance of a conditional use permit (9-2.07 subd. 1). In other city's codes, this
might be issued as a "special use permit" rather than a conditional use permit. Unlike a
variance, where the applicant must prove a hardship in order to exceed the zoning code, a
conditional use permit may and must be granted if the applicant can meet both general and
special conditions governing the use as determined by the planning commission.
The section of the zoning code that governs conditional use permits (9-15.04 subd. 3(a) (1 1))
requires that the planning commission find that:
"The architectural appearance and functional plan of the building and site shall
not be so dissimilar to the existing buildings or area as to cause impairment in
property values or constitute a blighting influence".
Background
In 1990, the applicants were granted a conditional use permit to operate a bed and breakfast
facility out of their home. The current request does not require amending that conditional use
permit because the owners do not propose to change or expand the bed and breakfast facility.
This request requires a second conditional use permit on the property rather than an
amendment to the 1990 permit because it is not related to the bed and breakfast facility.
Once an addition is constructed, a conditional use permit for additional height cannot be
revoked. The conditional use permit for the bed and breakfast could be revoked if the owners
• do not meet the conditions set upon that operation.
• Response to public notice and mailings
The city published a notice on this public hearing and mailed letters to property owners within
350 feet of the property, including all owners of the Coffman Condominiums. As of this
writing, staff has received no calls regarding this proposed addition.
Analysis
This is a unique residential property for Falcon Heights, Rather than being part of an
established residential neighborhood with urban lots, this structure is adjacent to two large
tracts of land, the University of Minnesota golf course and Gibbs Farm. It also has a
significant setback from the road. A three story condominium complex is across the street
to the south.
The proposed addition is in keeping with the architectural style of the dwelling. Furthermore,
an addition at the code's maximum of 25 feet would be out of keeping with the architectural
style of the dwelling. Therefore, the proposed addition meets the zoning code requirement
regarding approval for a conditional use permit.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends granting the conditional use permit for the construction of a 32 foot high
addition to the existing home with the condition that it be constructed of building materials
that match the existing structure.
This recommendation is based upon the following findings:
• 1. The use is in keeping with the city's comprehensive plan.
2. The use with the recommended conditions will not adversely affect the noise,
traffic, health, or welfare of the surrounding neighborhood.
3. The architectural appearance and functional plan of the building and site shall
not be so dissimilar to the existing buildings or area as to cause impairment in
property values or constitute a blighting influence.
ATTACHMENT:
1. Southern view of the proposed addition and location of property
ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Staff report
2. Questions of the staff
3. Questions of the property owner or representative
4. Conduct public hearing
5. Discussion
6. Motion to recommend approval of the requested conditional use permit with the
condition as noted above
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• CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
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PLANNING COMMISSION
ITEM: Public Hearing regarding the addition of the definition of "sidewalk sale"
to the zoning code (hearing to begin not before 7:15 p.m.)
SUBMITTED BY: Carla Asleson, Planner
REVIEWED BY: Susan Hoyt, City Administrator
EXPLANATION/DESCRIPTION:
Chapter 9-10.01 subd. 5 (dl of the zoning code prohibits the outdoor sale of merchandise in
a B - 3 zone, except for "twice a year for three days at a time as a sidewalk sale". This
language is incorporated into the zoning code in order to prevent the outdoor sale of
merchandise that is independent and unrelated to the abutting business. For example, under
the code, Dino's Gyros can sell gyros and soda outdoors but could not sell flowers.
The intent of the code is to prevent public safety hazards on very busy intersections and
uncontrolled business in the city's spatially restricted commercial areas. Staff has had little
difficulty with compliance thus far. What is missing in the current code is an actual definition
of the term "sidewalk sale". Staff is recommending that the following definition be added to
the zoning code to prevent future misunderstandings in interpretation:
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Sale -Sidewalk. The selling of goods by a business proprietor just outside of the
public customer entrance of the proprietor's business where the merchandise
sold outside is similar to what is ordinarily sold inside the abutting business and
the sales are managed and operated by the abutting business proprietor.
This definition would clarify that:
• The merchandise sold must be similar to what is sold inside the business.
• The sidewalk sale must be conducted by the proprietor of the business, which would
prevent the owners of a shopping center or individual proprietors from leasing sidewalk
sale space to a vendor other their existing businesses.
• A business could not operate a sale in an adjoining parking lot or open area, except for
the limited sale of their own merchandise when the business' customer entrance abuts
such an area.
ACTION REQUESTED
1. Staff report
2. Questions of the staff
3. Conduct public hearing
4. Discussion and determination of final wording
5. Motion to recommend approval of the definition of the term "sidewalk sale" to the
zoning code
INFORMATION ONLY
DEFINITION OF THE TERM "ANTIQUE"
(FROM WEBSTER'S DICTIONARY)
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