10-24-07 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL OCTOBER 24, 2007 Quam pointed out that the current Code limits maximum cul-de-sac length to 500 feet, and felt that this limitation could be used for force a compromise with the developer. Quam indicated that he will probably not develop his property, and pointed out that he would not be opposed to new standards for the area that would require larger lots, more tree preservation, and better wetland control. McGraw questioned how the holding pond will work given that the ravine is lower. Quam replied that the developer will have to severely change the grades in this area which will result in the loss of a significant amount of trees. Quam informed the Council how some driveway improvements he made on his property changed the water dynamics on his property. The City Engineer indicated that the Watershed has reviewed the grading and drainage plans to ensure that run-off will flow into the pond. The Engineer stated that there are some back yard areas along Lots 1 through 5 that will drain to the swamp. The majority of the run-off from this development flows to the road and into the pond providing rate conriol and storm water treatment. The Engineer noted that drainage and ponding requirements have changed over the years becoming more restrictive. The Engineer felt these requirement changes will continue in the more restrictive direction. Roycraft again pointed out that soils conditions worsen toward the west and asked how much fill would be necessary to correct those soils. The City Engineer was not sure, and noted that while property owners have indicated there is muck to the west, the soil borings do not show much on the Richie property. The Engineer noted that at some point it is not economically feasible to do soil corrections Roycraft felt that if the Richie Place plat goes through, there should be soil improvements done to the west. He noted that there is a sink hole on the Battista property that is eroding onto his land. Blesener suggested that Roycraft discuss this situation with the City Engineer. Christopher Kalla, attorney representing Lauren Development, reminded the Council that one of the primary issues is developing land to its highest and best use. He noted the need to access the triangular piece of property in the City of Maplewood, as well as the fact that the City Code requires developers to provide future connections to adjacent undeveloped property. To accomplish this, Lauren Development has submitted a 161ot single family development. Kalla noted Mr. Gores contention that to provide access to an adjacent property does not mean that a road must be paved to the edge of the parcel Kalla pointed out that a stub road to the east could be gated. Kalla also pointed out Gores' comments that this was 17