01-14-10 Planning Comm. Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION JANUARY 14, 2010 Everson asked what types of artifacts Himmelbach discovered. He reported that in digging a latrine hole, he discovered 5 or 6 club heads and a grinding tool. Given the size of the heads, they likely belonged to children. However, if they were adult implements, Himmelbach felt this discovery could rewrite history. Himmelbach stated that it is necessary to find evidence of bone so that carbon dating can be done. Himmelbach stated that he showed the artifacts to the MN Institute of Archeology (which no longer exists), and it was felt they were authentic. Duray felt that given the importance of the issue, Himmelbach should expedite his efforts in getting the artifacts authenticated with the State Archeologist. Duray noted that there is a short window of time before the Gervais Woods development would proceed. Gary Quam, 2934 Lal3ore Road, indicated that while the previous developer did not communicate with the neighborhood, this developer is doing a very good job of communicating. In working with the neighborhood, Landmark Development asked about the concerns of the neighborhood. Quam reported that the neighborhood asked for larger lots, more h~ee preservation, preservation of existing contours, control of run- off, attention to water quality, etc. It was also pointed out to the developer that some clean up was needed on the hillside straddling this property and the Himmelbach property. The neighbors also asked for buffer zones. Quam noted that the developer has been very responsive, and he pointed out that they are maintaining a huge canopy of tree cover. Quam stated that the landscaping plan is a good one and the rain water gardens a good addition to the project. Quam indicated that he and his wife have no intentions of developing their property, but suggested that future development potential be preserved for the back portion of his property through the adjacent outlot. Mr. Battista, 95l Beam Avenue, reported that an attorney for the developer contacted him and informed him that utilities would be going through the middle of his property. Battista asked what the improvements would consist of, curbing, street, etc. and if there would be traffic through the back of his property. The City Planner indicated that the City is working with the City of Maplewood and the Gervais Woods developer to extend utilities from the Beam Avenue/Kohlman Lane area through the Himmelbach property aizd up to proposed Woodland Drive. "fhe utilities would be underground, consisting of water and sewer. Eventually a street connection would be made. "The Planner reported that the utility connections would need to be accomplished by this summer in order to serve the Gervais Woods plat. "the City Clerk reported that at last evening's Council meeting, the Council ordered the appraisal of the portions of the Battista and -5-