08-14-08 Planning Comm. Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION AUGUST 15, 2008 Helmeke felt there should be an additional standard relative to pre- development tree crown cover establishing some method for determining the point in time for when that measurement is taken. He noted that someone could purchase a property, clear cut it, and not develop it for a year. Helmeke asked when the pre-development tree crown cover is determined in that situation. The Planner noted that there is aerial photography that could be used to make the determination. Helmeke agreed, but stated that his concern is that a better-defined timeframe should be outlined in the ordinance to avoid developers who are trying to skirt the tree preservation ordinance. The Planner indicated that he understands the concern and would work to develop language to provide a better defined time frame. Banaclough pointed out the value of trees to development. He also suggested that the Planner contact the St. Croix National Scenic By-Ways group as they may have some standards that would address this concern. Duray recommended approval of the proposed amendments to the City's Zoning Code and Subdivision Code including the changes outlined this evening by the City Planner including additional clarification of the tree preservation section as discussed. Motion seconded by Helmeke. Motion carried 6 - 0. COMPRE- The City Planner noted that the Comprehensive Plan update is in process. HENSIVE The Planning Commission has the preliminary draft document, and PLAN planning staff is continuing to fill in the gaps in this document. The Planner UPDATE indicated that this evening he would like to review some land use issues relative to certain properties/areas that have been identified and obtain the Planning Commission's input on these. The first property is the City-owned property on Twin Lake Blvd. The Planner noted that the property abuts a mobile home park to the north that is located in the City of Vadnais Heights and there is single-family residential development to the south and east. The property is zoned R-1 and has been identified in the Comp Plan as low density residential. The Planner indicated that the City is looking to market this property. Interest has been expressed in developing the site as medium-density residential such as townhomes or as an assisted living facility. The Planning Commission felt that either option was reasonable. Helmeke asked if the property would be rezoned. The Planner indicated that the first step would be to change the -5-