02-14-2013 Planning Comm. Minutes

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 14, 2013 Knudsen felt that the Commission could take action on the proposed plat with the understanding that the conversation is ongoing. The City Planner reported that the staff report recommends approval of the Pinetree Pond Preliminary Plat subject to conditions which include the vacation of the 33 foot road easement. If that vacation does not occur, then the plat will need to be modified. That modification would be major in nature, thus would have to be resubmitted to the Planning Commission. The Planner noted that any minor modifications that may be made to the plat would come back to the Commission as part of the final plat process. The Planner indicated that because of these conditions, staff feels comfortable recommending preliminary plat approval. Duray stated that he would be comfortable passing along the preliminary plat to the Council at this time. He felt the plat as proposed was a solid plan. Duray pointed out that there are always concerns about the loss of trees, but was confident that Mr. Howe would go beyond Code requirements in replacing lost trees. Duray asked if there were any traffic problems along LaBore Road in the area of Cherry Hill Lane. The City Engineer reported that from time to time there are speed concerns, and noted that this is an enforcement issue. The City Engineer did not feel that adding stop signs was a good option to calm speeds. He also pointed that requesting a speed study relative to speeds can typically result in speed limits being increased. Knudsen noted that with development comes change. Knudsen indicated that when a development is proposed, it is the Commission's charge to ensure that the City evolves in the best way that it can. Knudsen pointed out that Mr. Howe has an excellent reputation as a developer and does quality work. Knudsen felt the plat proposed was a solid plan. He was also confident that Howe would work with abutting property owners on screening issues. Knudsen noted that the Commission is aware that the street easement vacation is pending and that the vacation will have to occur in order for the plat to proceed. He also acknowledged the City's ongoing discussions with adjacent property owners relative to future development of their property. Knudsen recommended approval of the Pinetree Pond Preliminary Plat as proposed by Gordie Howe, Masterpiece Homes, subject to compliance with the recommendations of the City Planner and the City Engineer. Motion seconded by Fischer. Motion carried 7 — 0. - 10 -