05-14-2015 Planning Comm. Minutes

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION MAY 14, 2015 As a reference, the Planner noted that the fencing around a tennis court is typically 10 feet in height. Ledin suggested that a 12 foot high fence would not be aesthetically pleasing in any scenario. Davison compared the length of most noise walls in comparison to a 12 foot high fence in someone's backyard. The Planner agreed with an earlier comment that a 12 foot high fence would not stop the noise, its purpose would be to block out the view of the railroad. Davison pointed out that once quiet zones are established in the City, train whistles will not be sounded. He did note that the trains would still cause noise from vibrations. Davison felt that if the issue was more a visual one, that the maximum height of this special purpose fence should be shorter. Buesing suggested that there should be a minimum length added to the ordinance amendment to tie to the maximum height. He pointed out the situation of a 12 foot high fence at the back of a 100 foot wide property with no other fences of this nature adjacent. Buesing felt this proposal could open a can of worms noting that there may be a variety of things that people do not want to look at and would request a special purpose fence to block the view. The City Planner indicated that the Council felt that trains raised a separate class of issues. The Planner indicated that he was sensitive to the length issue, but pointed out that the code could not be written disallowing a special purpose fence if the neighbors did not have one. The Planner indicated that the City does not have the flexibility to regulate in that way. Heikke stated that train tracks are usually elevated, therefore, a 12 foot high fence at the back of a property may only provide 6 feet of screening. Buesing suggested a 6 foot high berm with a 6 foot high fence on it. Ledin pointed out that a special purpose fence required a CUP, therefore, there will be City review of each request. The Planner noted that the most common standard that will be considered is compatibility with the neighborhood. Duray asked what the reason was for the 12 foot height. The Planner indicated that the 12 feet came from the property owner. He reported that his staff researched this issue and they found no standards. Duray reported that he has some experience with large fences given that a 10 foot high block wall fence was put at the back of his property to restrict noise into the trailer park. Duray reported that this wall has worked well. Buesing pointed out that a block wall with a rock face would provide a 5