10-22-08 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL OCTOBER 22, 2008 Planner indicated that the approval before the Council is more concept in nature at this point, related generally to the proposed land use. Steve Sparks, Sweet Cream Enterprises, appeared before the Council requesting a PUD Permit to allow construction of a Culvers Restaurant on the southeast corner of Rice Street and Market Place Drive. Sparks indicated that they are in the process of finalizing financing for the project. Once the financing is in place, a purchase agreement will be signed for the site. It is anticipated that the project will break ground in the spring. Sparks indicated that this timetable will allow them time to work with the City and meet all the requirements and conditions of approval. Blesener asked about the drive-through. Sparks replied that the preliminary site plan was designed by Culver's site planners and has worked in other locations. Sparks indicated that the Culver's planners and engineers would work directly with the City Planner and City Engineer to satisfy their requirements. Blesener asked how vehicles know to move forward when in queue. Sparks indicated that there will be a sign posted directing drivers to move forward and the Culver's drive-through staff would also provide this direction. Allan asked about the Sherman plan to locate Culver's on the front site abutting Rice Street and another development on the eastern site. Sparks indicated that the issue for Culvers is the width of the property, and the site works from that standpoint. The depth of the site is a factor in their ability to meet parking requirements, and works for them as well. Sparks reported that this will be their fourth Culver's Restaurant. He indicated that Culver's is a family restaurant and not traditional fast food. About 60% of the business is inside and 40% drive-through. Sparks noted that given the family-style restaurant, the 100 seating capacity does not generate as many cars as typical. He estimated 25 cars to fill 100 seats. Sparks presented a picture representing what the exterior of the Culver's would look like, and noted that the building materials are similar to the Sherman office building on the south. Allan noted the recommendation to enclose trash bins in a structure with a garage door rather than gates. Sparks reported that this would involve a costly building due to the roof trusses that would be necessary. The result might be that the structure is built as small as possible which may impede recycling activities. Sparks indicated, however, that they would comply with this requirement if the Council felt strongly about it. Blesener asked that Sparks take a look at complying with this recommendation. Sparks indicated he would, and indicated that if he finds a reasonable compromise, he would present it to the Council.