01/29/2003 Environmental Board Minutes

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ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETINGJANUARY 29, 2003 9APPROVED MINUTES Donlin stated that residents were happy with the rural use, and she was in full agreement. She noted the City charted the area for development but emerald green lawns were destructive. She found a gas station with a car wash was troublesome. She noted that the Board was an advisory board that tried to minimize the impact on the environment. Grundhofer added that it was a premature development. Asleson indicated that the surface water was the most important issue, but other options could be explored regarding water quality and volumes. Grundhofer stated that a gas station and a car wash did not belong on the site. Chair Kukonen indicated that it was General Neighborhood Business or B-3, in which he was outvoted to allow a gas station in a neighborhood business. O’Dea mentioned that the Board would have liked to review the entire site. Mr. Johnson responded that they were advised not to bring concept sketches. Donlin inquired if there was one spokesperson for the group, and found that there was none. Greg Schlink introduced himself and indicated that he represented the developer. He apologized to the Board concerning the rezoning applications and the concept sketches. He stated that the neighbors were concerned with the runoff and volumes. The proposed plan was in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan. He explained that the gas station was important for the livelihood of the other businesses on the site. Grundhofer pointed out there were other malls with no gas stations, and they did survive. She expressed concern that a gas station/car wash on Baldwin Lake might disturb the wildlife habitat and she knew that Bald Eagles fed on the lake. O’Connell inquired if there were any commitments for the gas station. Grundhofer mentioned if there was a good restaurant, a gas station would not be necessary. Mr. Schlink responded that market researchers indicated that gas stations were the best choice. Donlin stated that strip malls tended to look alike, and that Lino Lakes wanted it different. The 2020 Vision was developed so that Lino Lakes would not be like every other suburb, but to encourage creativity. She noted the example of the J- Mart near her home that had to be closed for a while due to the runoff. She stated that they were assured there would be no runoff, but there was.