11-28-2007 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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MAYOR Bill Blesener COUNCIL Rick Montour Barbara Allan John Keis Michael McGraw 515 Little Canada Road, Little Canada, MN 55117 -1600 ADMINISTRATOR (651) 766 -4029 / FAX: (651) 766 -4048 Joel R. Hanson www. ci.littie- canada. mn. us MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Blesener, Members of the City Council FROM: Joel R. Hanson, City Administrator DATE: November 20, 2007 RE: Redevelopment of Former Knox Site With the consideration of the Midwest Gymnastics application for a PUD Permit for the former Knox Building, staff believes it is important for the Council to consider the following factors: 1) A Development Contract does govern this property (copy attached). It was adopted back in 2003 when Drywall Supply proposed the subdivision of this property into three lots; one for themselves, one for the Painter's Union project, and one for the former Knox building. Specific provisions to be aware of are: (a) Provision # 24 that discusses the renovation of the former Knox building. It states that renovations shall be consistent with any requirements of the City. It also dictates that at least 20% of the space should be office and no more than 80% warehouse (staff believes the gym use meets the intent of this provision). The parking improvements referenced were installed, relative to the use of the building by Drywall Supply. The new owner will need to ensure parking meets code requirements created by the new uses to be accommodated. (b) Provision #25 requires renovation of the building on Drywall Supply's site. This is not come into play as of yet given that Drywall Supply still occupies a portion of the Knox building. When they vacate that building, this provision must be complied with. Also, this provision required screening of the canopy wall that separates the Painter's Union property from Drywall Supply. A landscaping plan was not submitted and this issue remains outstanding. (c) Provision #30 requires the Developer to comply with Little Canada's landscaping ordinance. In reading the minutes from the Planning Commission meeting, it appears there is some resistance in this regard. 2) The exterior condition of the former Knox building is less than desirable. Staff has discussed this matter Carl Johnson. He has withheld making any major improvements to this building pending the sale or determination of a long -term use. However, many of the needed "upgrades" consist of simple maintenance items such as staining the wood facade