01-28-2004 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION JANUARY 8, 2004 Weihe agreed, and suggested the Comp Plan should be reviewed, and the City should consider the issue of outdoor storage and whether or not any action taken by the City goes toward the enhancement of a major entry corridor for Little Canada. Stu Roberts, property owner along Rice Street, indicated that he moved into the area in 1996 and there have been periods of time when there have been no trucks parked at the substation. Roberts felt there was a huge difference in looking at the substation with and without parked trucks, and agreed that with trucks it was an eyesore. Roberts pointed out that there are light industrial areas where trucks of this nature should be parked. Roberts also pointed out the heavy traffic levels on Rice Street, and felt the pulling of these trucks onto and off of Rice Street into this site will be a traffic problem. Roberts disagreed with the number of trucks estimated by Xcel this evening, noting that there have been as many as 12 or 13 trucks, and most of the trucks have trailers attached. Roberts noted Xcel's position that this use is grandfathered in, but noted that Little Canada has been looking toward the future and has made huge improvements in the area Roberts stated that even if the truck storage is not allowed, he agreed that screening should be required of Xcel. Steve Lang, property owner along Rice Street, stated that he can appreciate Xcel's need for tree maintenance, but stated that he is disappointed out this outdoor storage is occurring directly across from his house. Lang stated that he has been very happy with the redevelopment occurring along Rice Street. Lang also pointed out that there is more to the outdoor storage request than just vehicle storage, there are traffic concerns, dust and the tracking of dirt and mud onto Rice Street. Lang agreed that even if the outdoor storage were not allowed, screening would be a big improvement for the area. Jurek indicated that Xcel is receptive to screening, and will plant the additional trees recommended by the City Planner. Jurek also indicated that if the residents across the street would like additional plantings in their yards, Xcel would be receptive to that. Knudsen asked how receptive Xcel would be if the outdoor storage is denied. Jurek replied that she did not know. .Duray recommended denial of the Conditional Use Permit for accessory outdoor storage for 3064 Rice Street requested by Xcel Energy based on the fact that the storage is inconsistent with the business and residential 4-