08/12/2020 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board August 12, 2020 Page 2 APPROVED MINUTES VI. ACTION ITEMS A. PUBLIC HEARING: Otter Crossing Preliminary Plat and Site Plan Review Ms. Larsen, City Planner, presented the staff report. The applicant, Tyme Properties, LLC, is creating a 1.43 acre parcel for the purpose of constructing a 7,800 sf commercial retail building. The name of the preliminary plat is Otter Crossing. Staff recommended approval of the preliminary plat and site plan review for Otter Crossing subject to conditions listed in the staff report. Ms. Larsen asked the board for input regarding the building’s location. Board Comments Mr. Reinert asked if we have data on how the positioning of the building will impact the success of the businesses. Tom Schuette, from Tyme Properties, said the tenants want to face the traffic on Main Street. He told the board he understands the concept of creating a village with the businesses facing the back street. However, he mentioned the back street will not likely have a main street feel since the street will eventually be right-in, right-out and the area to the north of the site is a wetland. Mr. Reinert stated an argument can be made for either design. He remarked if a decision is made for the positioning of one building, all of the buildings that will be developed on the road need to be positioned the same for consistency. He commented if the backside of the businesses face Main Street and if proper signage is displayed to ensure the businesses are noticed, then maybe there would be no loss of opportunity. He asked Mr. Evenson what his opinion was on the matter. Mr. Evenson said, from a retailer’s perspective, you would want the front of your business to face the busiest road. He liked how the developer positioned the building. Mr. Root remarked the new businesses will be a good addition to Lino Lakes. Regarding the position of the building, he explained he would prefer to have the front facing Main Street, but he acknowledged the alternative design could be done if the building was designed accordingly and the signage was prominent. Ms. Peacock suggested a sidewalk area be built around the shops to allow customers to be able to walk from business to business and to give the occupying businesses the opportunity to place additional seating outside. She questioned if the new trail would be a bike trail or a walking trail.