08-11-2022 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION AUGUST 11, 2022 2 the cul-de-sac for improved safety. She stated that the developer has met the major subdivision requirements and also provided details on the related zoning requirements. She also reviewed the variance criteria and related findings. She also provided input from the Development Review Committee, City Engineer, and other agencies. She reviewed the next steps in this process. Commissioner Thorson arrived. Chair Kwapick appreciated the thorough presentation and acknowledged the work that has been done on this request in the last month. He stated that he is impressed that a lot of the concerns expressed by the Commission at the previous meeting have been addressed including the lot size, flatter grade, and water management. He stated that his only concern would be with a potential impact to privacy related to the reduced rear yard setback. Commissioner Buesing stated that he visited the site after the last meeting and some of the existing homes on Schletty Drive already have high retaining walls. He asked how the retaining walls would be configured for the homes that face Schletty Drive. Ms. Kansier replied that she is unsure but noted that these lots would be lower than the lots to the west and the retaining walls would be located on this property. Commissioner Buesing asked if there is a requirement for a fence to be on top of the retaining wall if the wall is over four feet in height. Ms. Kansier replied that is quite possible. She stated that building code often requires a fence on top of a higher retaining wall. Commissioner Buesing stated that if the requirement is not already in code, he would request that be added as a condition of approval. Commissioner Johnson commented that is a good point if the retaining wall is located in the backyard as it would prevent children from playing on top of the wall. She stated that she would also be concerned with the view of the residents on Schletty as their view would then be a chain link fence. She noted that perhaps safety and aesthetics could be combined. Commissioner Buesing commented that he would be comfortable using the term barrier atop the wall. Sean Keatts, applicant, stated that they are working on the grading and elevation plan currently to determine where retaining walls are needed. He stated that once the final plat is developed, he will ensure that the western side of the wall is addressed and whether barriers are required. Commissioner Quarles asked if anything would be anticipated along the east side of the property.