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MINUTES <br />PLANNING COMMISSION <br />DECEMBER 11, 2008 <br />other would be to rebuild the Taco John's building bringing it up to current <br />standards. <br />The City Planner noted the impact that medians along Rice Street will have <br />on Taco John's existing access. <br />Duray asked if the property will be clear cut as a result of the proposed <br />development. Frisbie indicated that they have been working on this site for <br />a couple of years, and noted the need for storm water retention and <br />infiltration, setback requirements, and grade issues. The hope is to preserve <br />as much of the natural feel along the pond as possible as well as replace <br />trees and add landscaping. <br />Barraclough stated that he would like to see Black Tern Office Park on the <br />site plan to see the relationship between the buildings. Barraclough stated <br />that his biggest concern with the project has to do with traffic flow and <br />noted that there are times that traffic on Rice Street is back up to under the <br />railroad bridge. Barraclough felt that Country Drive will be a significant <br />access point for this development. <br />Gerberding acknowledged that there will be significant engineer challenges <br />with the site, and again stated their intention to work with the County and <br />MN DOT on traffic and access issues. <br />Barraclough agreed with the City Planner's comments that a restaurant will <br />generate the need for additional parking. He indicated that he liked the <br />mixed-use concept of the Comforts of Home and the office building. He <br />was not sure that the retail building would work. <br />Gerberding noted that many issues need to be resolved and indicated that <br />they are seeking concept approval this evening. He stated that while the site <br />offers many opportunities, it also has many challenges. <br />Duray noted that developers seek to get the most development from their <br />sites, and at times overbuild sites. Duray was not sure that the property <br />would be able to support the full development as proposed. Knudsen stated <br />that he did not disagree, and noted that there are environmental issues that <br />will need to be addressed given the woods that will be replaced with <br />blacktop. He thought, however, that a good development could be put <br />together. <br />Duray noted the comments from the City of Shoreview on this development <br />which include some of the same concerns discussed this evening relative to <br />traffic congestion, drainage, and environmental issues. The City Planner <br />felt the intent of the Shoreview letter was to raise these items for discussion <br />as part of the City's review. <br />-8- <br />