10-28-98 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL OCTOBER 28, 1998 neighborhood given that the development proposal deviates from City standards. Fahey felt a three-lot development would be more appropriate. Pedersen pointed out that the issue is a three-lot development versus five lots. Fahey noted that the other question is the effect on aesthetics. A substandard street was put into this area in an attempt to preserve the aesthetics of the nei~hborhood. Fahey also noted that a three-lot development would minimize the impact on drainage and perhaps would result in a higher quality development. Fahey stated that he has a problem approving a development which requires exceptions to the City's standards. Pedersen felt that even if five lots were platted, the nei~hborhood would still want a 24-foot wide road since they want to lessen the impact on trees and aesthetics. Fahey pointed out that a 24-foot wide road would be four feet less than standard. Pedersen commented that the neighborhood wants the narrow road no matter how many homes are developed on the Kimmes property. Therefore, a road width of 24 feet is a given. Again, Pedersen commented that the issue is five lots versus three. Pedersen asked if the City had any basis to limit the development to three lots. Scalze pointed out that Mr. Kimmes purchased a low piece of property. In order to make this property buildable, it must be filled and trees removed. Fahey pointed out that the City is not required to approve any sort of development on a substandard road. Pedersen noted that Mr. Kimmes could come back with a proposal that includes upgrading the road to 28 feet. Kimmes noted that the 24-foot road width was recommended by the City Planner. Kimmes informed the Councii that his intent is to develop $250,000 to $300,000 houses on this property and to develop something that the City wiil be proud of. Pedersen asked if the development were limited to three larger lots, if more expensive homes could be developed. Kimmes did not think so given the values of the existing homes in the neighborhood. Kimmes pointed out that while the property is wooded, there are not a lot of prime trees on it. Many of the oaks on this property are in bad shape. LaValle asked if a compromise at four lots would work. Kimmes replied that he considered a four-lot development. However, with the costs of a widened street, four lots did not work.