12-20-2006 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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6. The fence and landscape line should be moved on the Rice Street site to better delineate the required setback area from the pond. The ordinance requires a 50 foot setback, and a minimum of 25 feet adjacent to the pond, undisturbed from its natural state. The applicant should also coordinate with the Ramsey - Washington Metro Watershed District for any additional regulations. Comment: The 50 foot setback from the existing pond is illustrated on the revised plans. The buffer yard contains 18 existing Spruce trees, with two additional Spruce trees proposed in northwest corner of the property. The number of trees proposed is greatly decreased from the 32 illustrated on the original site plan. However, the intended screening appears to be adequate, and the site is sufficiently landscaped. The applicant is also proposing to upgrade an existing 10 foot path with wood chips, to be located following existing tree clearing, as recommended by the Ramsey - Washington Metro Watershed District. A permit was also received from the Watershed District. The wood chip path is not expected to greatly disturb the natural environment of the pond. The path will extend along the entire northern perimeter of the site, connecting to the existing office building on the Spruce Street site. A trail easement is not indicated on the site plan. Per City Council recommendation on July 25, 2001, a 30 -foot trail easement shall be required along Black Tern Pond, on the Rice Street site. The applicant shall provide proof that said easement has been recorded with the Ramsey County Recorder's office. Outdoor Storage. A large outdoor storage area was indicated in the center of the site as part of the Planned Unit Development approval. No details were provided as to the nature of the outdoor storage at that time, other than it will be utilized for equipment storage. An additional outdoor vehicle storage site is located on the Rice Street site, with shelved outside storage located on the south side of the larger existing building and the east side of the smaller building on that site. Outdoor storage is allowed on the site as part of the PUD. Open and outdoor storage is a conditional accessory use, subject to the following requirements: 1. The area is fenced and screened from view of neighboring residential uses or residentially zoned property. Comment: The site does not abut any residential uses. 2. Storage is screened from view of the public right of way. Comment: The center outdoor storage area will be bordered by a six foot black coated chain link fence to the south. Outdoor storage on the Rice Street site will be screened with Spruce trees, to the northeast, a retaining wall and a 6 foot galvanized chain link fence to the north, and a retaining wall to the west. 3