11-09-06 Planning Comm. Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION NOVEMBER 9, 2006 Knudsen pointed out the fairly large senior development ThaC was builC in the area of Rice Street/Little Canada Road a few years ago. Knudsen stated that the Planning Commission is not completely inflexible, but noted that the concept is beyond the bounds of what would be acceptable. He also felt a cul-de-sac that appears to he three times longer than the City's maximum is a deal breaker. Knudsen suggested that Solby determine just how much property they have as well as whether or not the street can be extended through to Maplewood. Knudsen also noted the issue of tree removal. Duray asked if a development of this nature would require a rezoning. The City Planner stated that it would given the density proposed. Duray asked if this would be spot zoning. The Planner replied that spot zoning is a concept thaC relates to whether the use is compatible with Che surrounding land uses. He stated that a parcel of this size would not be considered spoC zoning. The Planner indicated that the bigger issue is Che conflict with the Comprehensive Plan as well as whether the development is compatible with the surround area. Duray stated that he would not favor the rezoning of this property. Hall indicated that he would not support a rezoning. Hall also raised the issue of traffic and the amount of traffic that a 41-unit developmenC would bring to LaBore Road. Knudsen pointed out that the development concept broke almost every rule in the book. John Gores stated Yhat he was very surprised to receive the notice fora 41 unit development, and pointed out that Che Canadian Woods plat on approximately 9 acres of land is for 8single-family homes. Gores reported that the Richie Place concept is a cul-de-sac from LaBore Road. Gores indicated that he lives immediately adjacent to the end of this proposed cul-de-sac, and the road cannot be extended. Gores reported that discussion on the Map]ewood right-of-way issue in this area started in the 1970's and ran through the 1980's. This area is very weC, and the City of Maplewood eventually bought the land around their house for open space. Maplewood required the Gores to have a long driveway into their property from Arcade Street. Gores reported that his driveway is over a strip of right-of-way that is only 10 feet wide. Gores indicated that he and his wife had to sign documents that stated they would not sue Che City in the event that an emergency vehicle could not access their property. ]0