08/11/2021 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board August 11, 2021 Page 5 APPROVED MINUTES Mr. Laden agreed with Chair Tralle’s comment to have the Planning & Zoning Board invited to the neighborhood meetings since they represent the citizens of Lino Lakes. Chair Tralle commented it is important for the Board to attend the meetings simply to observe the conversation between the developer and the neighborhood. Mr. Grochala said we can make sure the Board members are invited to the meetings. However, he cautioned the Board not to get drawn into the conversation. Mr. Wipperfurth appreciated Mr. Grochala’s explanation as to why the neighborhood meeting should occur at the concept stage and he agreed. He reiterated it would be more difficult for a developer to make changes to the development after plans are drawn and money is invested. Mr. Grochala then changed the conversation to address rural cluster developments. He said there are a few permanent rural areas in the City that will never receive City sewer and water specifically between Rondeau Lake Rd and 35W and a corner section in the southeast quad of the City. In these areas, the City is considering letting owners subdivide at a higher density to allow for cluster developments; however, 50% of the land would need to be preserved as permanent open or agricultural space. The lot sizes would be a minimum of two acres with a community drain field. Mr. Laden stated it would be helpful to see a map of the permanent rural areas throughout the City. Ms. Larsen commented there are few permanent rural areas that will never receive City sewer and water. Mr. Evenson asked if the zoning ordinance specifies permanent rural. Mr. Laden agreed and questioned if it is clear the ordinance is referencing permanent rural areas and not areas current zoned rural. Ms. Lindahl said it should have been more clear in the staff report, but the language in the draft is specific. She commented a map of the permanent rural areas will be included. Mr. Grochala explained City staff also discussed allowing cluster developments in the post 2040, urban reserve areas; however, the 50% open space requirement would be temporary. He said this idea is not currently proposed as it could create unintended consequences. Ms. Lindahl reiterated in the permanent rural areas, the cluster developments would maintain a 50% permanent open space. If proposed, in the urban reserve areas, open space would be protected until municipal sewer and water arrives.