09/08/2021 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board September 8, 2021 Page 5 APPROVED MINUTES Steve Gallop, a resident who lives on Amelia Lake, said on a normal year, the lake is approximately 5 or 6 feet deep. However, he commented, this year he could see blue herons standing in the water. Moreover, he explained if anyone tried to canoe their paddle would hit the muck. Applicant’s Comments Chair Tralle asked the applicant if he was involved with the previous land use applications concerning this property. Tom Budzynski, with TJB Homes, Inc. located at 9100 Baltimore Street NE, Blaine, MN 55443 introduced himself to the Board. He stated the property is owned by John and Patricia Commers. Several years ago, he worked with the owners on a proposal to construct single family lots. Later, they proposed an apartment concept where they would bring sewer and water in from White Bear Lake, but those plans fell through. Today, they are proposing four 10 acre lots. He said the lots are pretty rural and have a feeling similar to being up north. He commented once the homes are up for sale, he anticipates they will sell quickly. He stated Amelia Lake is generally not a motorized lake rather it is a canoe and kayak lake. Chair Tralle asked Mr. Budzynski if he understood the Board’s feedback. Mr. Budzynski said he understood. He stated his engineer needs to move a few raingardens and wells on the site. However, he acknowledged they need to first plot out the homes before they can determine the placement of the wells since the wells need to be so far away from the septic system and driveway. Chair Tralle asked Mr. Budzynski if he had any questions for the Board. Mr. Budzynski recalled a water willow survey is required and he questioned what that is. Ms. Larsen stated it is a rare species survey. Mr. Budzynski said the rare species survey has already been ordered. He shared the owner to the north of the site was given an easement to cross the property. Powerline easements were also granted because wires were positioned in places where initially no rights were granted. He said he has done nearly everything he can to move forward on the project. He commented the houses will be nice and the price point per home will range from 1.2 to 1.8 million. Chair Tralle declared the Public Hearing open at 7:07 p.m. Steve Gallop, 6102 Centerville Rd, said he owns the land on the south end of Amelia Lake from Centerville Road to the freeway and from the freeway to Otter Lake. He stated when he purchased his home, only three homes had access to the lake. He