09-25-2019 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 12, 2019 - 4 - Grittman stated that the applicant has provided two alternative locations for the proposed building. He explained that Option 1 locates the building within the south parking lot, along the main access driveway. This location would have the easiest access to the main driveway and would occupy approximately 15 parking spaces, based on the sketch provided by the applicant. Grittman noted that this loss of spaces includes additional room for drive aisle circulation necessitated by the building location. He reported that Option 2 locates the building along the east building wall, near the southwest corner of the building. He noted that this option would occupy a similar number of parking spaces and would potentially interfere with vehicle circulation around this corner of the site. Grittman stated that the applicant indicates that the parking lot currently has about 200 parking spaces which is much more than the facility is ever in need of. He noted that based on available aerial photography, the site appears to be rarely even half full. If this is the case, the loss of spaces in either option should not raise any issues. Grittman stated that planning staff would suggest that Option 1 is preferable for emergency vehicle access, both to the temporary building itself, and for access to the principal building. He noted that circulation could be problematic in Option 2 for firefighting or other emergency response needs. Grittman reported that planning staff believes the proposal can be accommodated within the intent of PUD zoning, and within the context of the original PUD approval, and would recommend Option 1, based on its lesser impact to site circulation, along with the conditions that the facility is in place for no more than 3 years from date of City Council Approval; the Building Official certifies that the facility is suitable for occupancy as proposed; the facility is operated during daytime hours from Monday to Friday only, the applicant executes an agreement specifying the terms of the Interim Use Permit, the discontinuation of the temporary building and use, and complies with any financial security required by the City Council, and as recommended by the City Attorney; and any comments and recommendations of other staff and the Planning Commission. Tom Aasheim, Director of Training at the Finishing Trades Institute (FTIUM) of the Upper Midwest, 3205 Country Drive, Suite 150, explained their history and why they need more space. The IUPAT bought the building and planned to offer training courses here, and the FTIUM has been holding apprenticeship classes in this facility for the last 14 years. He explained that five years ago, the FTIUM became a fully accredited community college and has received a lot of additional interest in their program, along with expanding their geographical area which has brought more students to the site. He explained that their Board is looking at some interior renovations to the building, but they need space right