06/29/2022 Environmental Board Minutes

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Environmental Board June 29, 2022 Page 2 APPROVED MINUTES The applicant, Ranger Development, submitted a land use application for a PUD Concept Plan for a proposed residential development west of the intersection of Lake Drive and Kelly Street. The applicant would like flexibility to adjust lot sizes and setbacks. There are 23 single unit townhomes proposed on the 4.9 acre site. The 2040 Comprehensive Plan proposes constructing a trail through the site. In lieu of this and keeping in mind the density of the proposed development, Chair Sullivan asked if there would be room for a trail. He also asked if there are trails currently in the area. Mr. Nelson said there are no trails along Lake Drive currently. He explained since the applicant is requesting PUD flexibility, the applicant will be required to provide a public benefit and a trail would fufill that requirement. Chair Sullivan asked where the site’s stormwater runoff would be directed. Mr. Nelson explained the site is meeting the rate and volume requirements for stormwater runoff and they will not contribute runoff to nearby ponds. Mr. Schwartz and Ms. Cavegn asked if there would be enough room on the site for a trail and stormwater management. Mr. Nelson stated the applicant will need to revise their plans to include more open space in order to meet the requirements for a PUD. Once more open space is incorportated, there should be sufficient space for a trail, various plantings, and stormwater management. Ms. Buchmeier questioned if a middle turn lane would need to be constructed in order for residents to be able to turn onto Vicky Lane from Lake Drive. She expressed concern with the alignment of Vicky Lane and Kelly Street. She also asked what the City anticipates the traffic volume will look like. Mr. Nelson stated the traffic will be reviewed by city and county engineers. He noted the alignment of Vicky Lane with Kelly Street is done to limit the number of accesses onto Lake Drive which increases the level of safety. Jon Blattman, 4247 117th Avenue NE, Blaine, MN 55449, with Ranger Development, said he spoke with the county and they forsee no issues with residents exiting Vicky Lane. Mr. Blattman noted the county mentioned the possibility of adding a turn lane from Lake Drive to Vicky Lane. He commented implenting a 6 ft. high buffer around the development would not work as it would inhibit proper drainage and access for mowing. Regarding the trail, Mr. Blattman said he is unsure where the trail could be located due to the homeowners to the north of the site and since it is not known what will be constructed on the vacant lot to the south.