07-23-2014 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL JULY 23, 2014 Keis noted previous comments that the structure would be used as a model. McManus indicated that the structure would be sold before construction began, and it would be their hope that in exchange for some concessions, the owners would allow the house to be shown to other prospective clients. The City Administrator pointed out that as part of the upgrade of the railroad crossing, medians might be installed along Little Canada Road 60 to 100 feet from the railroad crossing. This might restrict access in and out of this property to right turn in and out. McManus stated that they are supportive of the upgrades to the railroad crossings. Boss noted the train noise indicating that it is not only the train whistles but the noise from the trains themselves that will impact this property. McManus indicated that once the 35E MN Pass Lane is completed, the traffic levels on Little Canada Road should decrease. Keis asked if the duplex is constructed could it be converted to a single- family home in the future. The Planner replied that it could. He noted that a single-family home could be constructed on the property as a permitted use without the need for a PUD Permit. Montour again clarified that the proposal before the Council is a duplex. The Planner replied that that was correct. Montour noted that the PUD District will then restrict occupancy of each unit to people aged 55 or older. The Planner replied that that was correct. McGraw asked if Thomas Homes was in ownership of this property. McManus replied that they were. McManus also commented that the numbers do not work to develop this house with a single-family home. He also indicated that this is not a commercial site. McManus noted that Little Canada Road traffic levels and train noise are negative factors for this property. McGraw asked how tall the house was. It was noted that it is the height of a standard two -store home. Rocky Waite, 2651 Lakeshore Avenue, appeared before the Council and cited the history of duplexes in the City and some of the negative factors that have resulted from some of these duplexes. Waite was also concerned about the City's ability to ensure that only people aged 55 or older occupied this property. Keis again commented that this is a duplex and the question for him is whether or not a duplex is acceptable in this area. Keis also questioned whether or not the City would have the ability to regulate the age 9