12-04-2023 Council Work Session Minutes

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review as it is a concept plan and added the concept plan has been reviewed by the Environmental Board and the Planning and Zoning Board as well as staff; the applicants are seeking general feedback on the concept at this point. She further advised that if there is forward movement in the application, the recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Board is that the developer hold a neighborhood meeting. Planner Larsen provided an overview of the application, a history of the Natures Refuge project back to 2006; and also highlighted traditional versus conservation developments. She went over the PUD flexibilities being requested by the applicant. Members of the audience provided comments: Mr. Scott Featherstone, 631 Andall Street, said would like to see the backside of the homes because that will be the view he will be looking at. He commented on City Ordinance 08-22, amending Chapter 1007 and opined that the first reading of that ordinance added a requirement a developer hold a neighborhood meeting prior to submission of a concept plan. Ms. Carol Featherstone, 631 Andall Street, thanked Mayor Rafferty for going to her property to hear their concerns. She stated she is unhappy about the proposed development and new road, though she added that they knew when they bought their property there was a potential to have a connection. She believes the development should have less homes than as proposed and that the developer would still make money. She added she would prefer no connection from Andall Street and that if the connection is developed she would like it to be limited to a bike and emergency vehicle only street. Mr. Wade Hallstrom, 615 Andall Street,said he has lived at his home for 28 years. He understands the land will be developedbut is concerned about safety because of the people who come to his neighborhood to walk and bike; it is currently quiet and safe but there will be much more(vehicle) traffic. Mr. Dane Olson, 630 Andall Street, stated the new road will be in his front yard. He likes the current peace and quiet and that the addition of a street will connect their little quiet area to the giant complex. He would like it to be an emergency vehicle only street. Mr. Phillip Hallstrom, 620 Andall Street, advised he grew up across the street from where he now lives and that when he was house shopping, he was fortunate to buy a house in the same neighborhood. He is concerned about safety as a lot of people walk their pets in his neighborhood; he doesn't mind the idea of a trail or bike connection but dislikes the idea of increase in traffic with a full connection. Mr. Christopher Stowe,426 Pine Street,said that when the neighbors moved into the Arena Acres development (on Andall Street) in the 80's they were told the houses(as presented in the concept plan) would be executive sites. He suggested that should be the plan. He also suggested the development should be called Nature's Slaughter, not Nature's Refuge (North).