02/06/2003 EDAC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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2 stadium project would take approximately 132 acres. They want to designate a site soon because a National Football League fund that would make available $50 million, dries up the end of March. The Lino Lakes sites would take a lot of work to connect 35W and 35E, but any site will take a lot of work. It's attractive that the two freeways come together up in Columbus. GAS STATION/CONVENIENCE STORES Ms. Divine reviewed the Spirit Hills project on Birch Street and Hodgson Road that was approved with a gas station. A new application has been made for a commercial corner on the Miller Farm (southeast corner of Birch and Hodgson) that includes a gas station. It appears the majority of the city council is against another gas station and is considering removing them as an allowable use in Neighborhood Business (NB) zones. Ms. Divine reviewed some history, which included the Design Review Task Force conclusion they should remain a Conditional Use in NB. The proposed zoning ordinance would provide strict standards for design, lighting, etc. for gas stations, and in the last city survey, 75% favored attracting neighborhood commercial centers. Also, the comprehensive plan originally had this site at a much more intense commercial use. Ms. Divine stated gas stations are important neighborhood anchors and not allowing them will make neighborhood commercial areas in the city difficult to develop. The city professes to want economic development but continues to set up roadblocks. EDAC members considered whether it was appropriate to further regulate locations of gas stations or to let the market dictate their location, what the impact of this regulation would have on economic development, and whether the city is prepared to accept less economic development. Members discussed that economics should dictate which businesses will be allowed in the city rather than using artificial controls. Businesses come in because there is a market, but small strip malls usually don't develop without a gas station/convenience store as an anchor. Mr. Chase noted that two gas stations on a corner could improve traffic. The commercial tax base in Lino Lakes needs to be enhanced. Ms. Hansmann agreed that it's like the trying to control housing. Ms. Schwartz moved to recommend to the City Council to allow the free market to decide the locations of gas station/convenience stores within the city. EDAC believes that the proposed zoning ordinance regulating gas station/convenience stores is restrictive enough and EDAC supports their location in commercial districts as a Conditional Use. Members believe that imposing stricter standards on the number or the location of gas station/convenience stores within the city will impede future economic development. Mr. Milbauer seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Meeting adjourned.