01-11-2023 Workshop Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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WORKSHOP MINUTES CITY COUNCIL JANUARY 11, 2023 Sean Keatts, Cara Builders, reviewed developments that he has done in the metro area and showed photos of other homes he has built. He stated that he always tries to save as many existing trees as possible. Fischer stated that he was uncomfortable with the final decision and denial that happened at the November meeting, but noted the Council did not know where things were at with the timeline and felt that they had to make a decision that night. He stated that he likes the changes and the new site plan that is presented now. McGraw stated that he was also uncomfortable with denying the preliminary plat and variances, and that is why he voted the way he did. The City Administrator explained that everything is in order for the stormwater plans and the applicant will need to finalize permits in order to move forward with the development. He noted the Ramsey -Washington Metro Watershed District has already approved the stormwater management plan for this development. Fischer stated another issue is a public road versus a private road, but a private road will require a homeowner's association that is only split between the seven homes on this new street, which would be very expensive. McGraw stated he prefers that it be a public road so that the city maintains it and there are no issues that arise between the neighbors. He stated it is not practical to have a private road. D.Miller stated that it makes sense to have it be a public road. The City Administrator stated it is not staff s recommendation that it be a private road. There was Council consensus to require the road to be public. McGraw asked Mr. Keatts what type of homes he is planning to build now. Mr. Keatts stated that he had never intended to build "starter homes" and has always intended to build homes in the 2,200-3,200 square foot size. He explained that the only difference in this development would be the homes on the west side could be tuck -under style homes in order to reduce the earthwork needed on those lots. There were no additional questions from the Council. The City Administrator stated that tonight the Council was asked for feedback and direction on whether they are comfortable with the site plan changes and having Mr. Keatts move forward with an updated Preliminary Plat and variance requests. T.Miller stated that her questions have been answered and she is comfortable with the plan now. McGraw stated that he is more comfortable now and is happy with how the developer has responded to all of the concerns from the city and the neighbors. He stated that this has always been natural land and it will change the look and feel of the neighborhood, which can be hard. D.Miller stated that the plan changes look positive. There was Council consensus that they are satisfied with the current site plan and want the new street to be a public street. 01