10-10-2002 Planning Comm. Agenda

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MINUTES PLANNING COM~9ISSION AUGUST 8, 2002 Jensen responded that construction standards have changed since then, and under today's standards a D-9 Caterpillar would not be allowed over a pipeline. Jensen reported that the Williams Pipeline engineers have not reviewed the development plans, therefore, no recommendations have been developed at this point. Barbara Allan reported that Dan Jensen sketched out the Williams Pipeline easement that runs through the area bacl: in Febniary or March of this year. Allan reported that the easement at the back of Steve Brausen's property extends into the Palman property. Steve Brausen estimated that the easement extends 13.5 feet into the Palman property at that location. McDonald reported that a registered land surveyor checked the records and did noY locate that information. McDonald also reported that when they get the Williams Pipeline report on this development, they will go through the list and report their response to each point made. Barbara Allan felt that the report ti om \~illiams Pipeline should have been received prior to preliminary plat review by the Planning Commission. Allan reported that Charles I<enow, Administrator for the Office of Pipeline Safety is not very excited about the development plan. She noted that the cities of Woodbury and Maplewood have adopted ordinances that require an additional 50 feet of setback from pipelines over what is requirement in State Statute. Allan reported that as long as the City has not approved any development plans, the City can adopt an ordinance requiring greater setbacks than those required by the State. Allan indicated that she intends to ask the City Council to consider adopting an ordinance that adds 50 feet to the required pipeline setback. Allan pointed out that no one has been able to assure her that an accident will not happen during or after construction. She noted that Williams will do their best to keep their pipe safe, but there are no assurances. Allan also pointed out that there are quite a few large trees that will be uprooted as part of the construction project, and pointed out that uprooting trees could cause problems with the pipe. Allan pointed out the improved tu-e rating that the City recently obtained, and suggested the City take public safety another step forward and adopt an ordinance adding 50 feet to the required setback for pipelines. Roycraft indicated that he has concerns about the environment and water quality. However, if the development proposal meets requirements as they currently exist, the Commission will have to make decisions. Roycraft questioned changing ordinances for one particular area of the City versus the City overall. -~-