09-24-2003 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 11, 2003 REZONING — PARK STREET — TORKELSON DEVELOPMENT COMPANY Mr. Mike Torkelson, Torkelson Development Company, appeared before the Commission requesting approval of a rezoning of Lots 1 through 4, Block 7, North Heights from General Business (B -3) to Medium Density Residential (R -2) or Single Family Residential (R -1). Torkelson described the existing uses in the area. He noted that there is wetland on a good share of the property in question; therefore, given the limited buildable area, residential development was all that would fit on the site. Keis asked if the buildable area was large enough for a duplex, noting that the City Planner has indicated that a single- family home is likely the most the could be developed on the site. Torkelson reported that he has prepared a sketch for a single- family home for this site, but has not prepared one for a duplex. Torkelson suggested that the footprint would be the same, the difference would be that the duplex would be two - stories. Knudsen felt that a duplex would not be out of character with the area. Torkelson felt a duplex would be a softer transition from the single- family residential on the east side of Park Street to the commercial development on the west. The City Planner noted that there is no other R -2 zoning in the area. The Commission discussed the limited buildable area on the lot and questioned the ability to put a duplex on this lot. Torkelson indicated that he would like the flexibility of putting a duplex on the lot if it is possible. If not, he would develop a single- family home on the property. Keis indicated that he did not want to see a duplex squeezed into the property. Knudsen felt that given the commercial development in this area, a duplex would not be the end of the world. Dave Rustad, owner of the adjacent property to the north, appeared before the Commission. Rustad explained the existing development and layout of the area as well as the ownership history of the property in the area. Rustad indicated that he is opposed to the rezoning to either R -2 or R -1, and reviewed the zoning of the property on the west side of Park Street noting that it is all commercial. Rustad indicated that there are currently some property challenges on the west side of Park Street, and indicated that he is working on a couple of concepts for the redevelopment of his site. He is hoping to bring a proposal before the City within the next 12 months. -2-