12-15-1999 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION DECEMBER 9, 1999 accommodate the existing uses of the site, but would limit industrial uses given the surrounding residential area. The City Planner reviewed the proposed Business - Industrial (B -I) District noting that it includes all permitted uses allowed in the BW District except for cartage and express facilities, building materials sales, and transportation terminals. It also allows all permitted uses in the I -1 District except for auto major repair, manufacturing, compounding, assembly, packaging, treatment, or storage of products and materials. Open and outdoor storage of up to 10% of the land area is allowed as a Conditional Use as is group day care, manufacturing, compounding, assembly, packaging, treatment, or storage of products and materials. The Planner also noted that the ordinance contains a definition of contractor's shops to try and address the fabrication issues which go hand -in -hand with such a business. Charles Bartholie, attorney representing the McCumber's, reported on the history of the property and the reasons why residential is not a good use for this site. He noted that the McCumber's built their building 23 years ago and at the time the property was zoned I -1. At this same time, the McCumber's requested to build a single - family home on the site, and the Council denied that request. Bartholie noted that the McCumber's have maintained their property in good condition, have attracted quality tenants to the City, and have paid property taxes. They have made improvements to their property based on the I -1 zoning. Bartholie noted that when the building was constructed, substantial soil work and improvements had to be done. Mr. McCumber obtained estimates for removal of these improvements and the building to make the property suitable for residential development. The estimates are over $300,000. It would be difficult to sell the property as a residential site for this amount. Bartholie noted that it is true the property presently abuts residential property. However, he noted that the freeway is across the street as well as commercial development in Vadnais Heights. There is also an industrial park down the street from this property. Bartholie reported that the McCumber's have canvassed a six block area with a petition for the property to remain as it is presently zoned at I -1. All but two property owners declined to sign the petition. Page 106