09-09-2004 Planning Comm. Minutes

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MINUTES PLANNING COIVIM:ISSION SEPTEMBER 9, 2004 view of the street, Igo noted that this fencing would have to be gates to allow access to the back of the property. Igo indicated that given the use of the site most days of the week and long hours each day, these gates would likely be open, therefore, would not provide the screening that the Planner is seeking. Igo also indicated that for security reasons, it would be preferable not to have the screening. Keis asked if there were any concerns with nwnber of cars for the auto body use. The Planner indicated that cars are restricted on properties whose use is entirely auto related. Given that two of the three tenants are excavators and the competing uses of the outdoor storage area, the issue should be self-policing. The Planner pointed out that the flexibility that Mr. Igo is seeking with regard to the outdoor storage has an advantage in that the components of the outdoor storage do not have to be counted. All outdoor storage would have to be behind the building. Igo again noted the controls that he has included in his lease agreements. The Planner indicated that the City's requirements provide for 10-foot setbacks from property lines for outdoor storage. Given that there is an existing fence along the property lines, it is impractical to require a ] 0- foot cleared area from the fence to where the outdoor storage can occur. The Planner pointed out that this requirement has never worked in Ryan Industrial 'Park. The Planner also felt that a hardship exists in that while Igo owns the back 40 to 60 feet of his property, St. Paul Water Utility prohibits him from using it. Additional outdoor storage area is lost as a result. Igo estimated that he loses 6,000 square feet of outdoor storage area as a result. Keis asked what would prevent other property owners from requesting this same Variance. Igo reported that most of the property owners in Ryan lndustrial Park utilize outdoor storage up to their property lines. Igo indicated that the purpose of his request is to provide for some flexibility so that no violations occw ou his property. Igo also felt that given the improvements he has made to his property, other property owners in the Park are i'ollowing suit, Duray asked how much outdoor storage area Igo would gain if the 10-foot setback is eliminated. Igo estimated that he would gain approximately 2,000 square feet that does not offset the 6,000 square feet he loses as a result of the Water Department easement. Weihe recommended approval of the Amendment to Conditional Use Permit expanding outdoor storage area as well as a Variance to encroach -6-