09-13-07 Planning Comm. Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 13, 2007 is in order to serve the property to be developed. Soby pointed out that the locations for future road connections to the east and west were established with the Watershed District as the best locations fiom both a wetland and grading perspective. The City Planner noted that there are two provisions in the ordinance relative to this issue. The first says that cul-de-sac length is limited to 500 feet. That provision refers to the permanent end of a cul-de-sac. The second provision requires that developments provide for the future extension of roadways to provide development access to adjacent properties. In those cases the cul-de-sac is considered a temporary and not subject to the 500 foot limitation. The Planner indicated that with regard to Richie Place, he does not consider the cul-de-sac proposed to be permanent in that it will be extended in the future as adjacent properties are developed. Dave Himmelbach, 2970 LaBore Road, suggested that before development of the Richie property occurs, an archeological assessment of the area is needed. Himmelbach indicated that he believes that there are aboriginal artifacts in the area. He has found rocks with notches in their sides as well as "stun and prey" types of arrowheads. Himmelbach also requested that existing trees be saved specifically those by the road and the holding pond. Himmelbach suggested that rather than clear cut the area, the developer should make efforts to save some of the older trees. While this might be more expensive, it will make for a better project. Himmelbach stated that he did not want to see the hydrology of the pond on his property disturbed as a result of this development. John Gores, 2870 Arcade Street, disagreed with the City Planner's position that the cul-de-sac was temporary, and, therefore, a variance was not necessary. Gores indicated that the City was without authority to allow a cul-de-sac in excess of 500 feet without a variance. Gores indicated that if such a cul-de-sac were approved, the City is setting itself up for litigation. Gores stated that there has been no contact made to the State Water & Soil Conservation Board relative to the delineation on this project. Gores expressed concern about the holding pond that was proposed to be located above his house. He also expressed concern about tree removal. He noted that there is already flooding occurring in this area. Bill Schorn, 2940 LaBore Road, noted that during the concept review conducted in June of 2007 for the Steinert property, issue was taken with the 700 foot cul-de-sac proposed by the developer. Schorn stated that during that review the City Planner indicated that 500 feet is a common standard, and that the limitation is in place for better access by emergency vehicles and to limit the amount of traffic at an intersection. Schorn pointed out that the Richie Place cul-de-sac is twice the maximum length allowed, -7-