12/08/2004 P&Z Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board November 10, 2004 Page 10 lettering inside the brick and will be approximately 4' high and 10' wide; the sign may be lit at night. Chair Rafferty asked for information regarding the church's desire to purchase this particular lot in the middle of a residential area, particularly given the traffic concerns and other issues raised by staff and adjacent property owners. Dave Knutson, 38 West Golden Lake Road, Circle Pines, appeared representing the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. He stated they have been looking for property to build a church for awhile and this parcel was attractive because the price was reasonable. Chair Rafferty asked Mr. Knutson how he feels about putting a church in the middle of a residential area. Mr. Knutson replied one of the things they were looking for is a traffic flow, and Lake Drive provides that. He recognized there has been a lot of concern expressed about increased traffic on Lake Drive, but felt the traffic generated by the church would be spread out evenly and their congregations are typically less than 100 people. Mr. Laden asked if the building would have windows. Mr. Knutson replied the Kingdom Hall has five standard designs to choose from and the plan provided to staff represents a stripped down plan and they intend to add windows. Mr. Tralle asked if a double front door and a single service door provided sufficient egress in case of fire. Mr. Bengtson stated this issue will be addressed by the building department to ensure compliance with city code. Chair Rafferty reiterated his suggestion to the applicant to meet with the adjacent property owners. Mr. Knutson agreed to meet with the neighbors before the next P &Z meeting. He stated that all other issues noted in the plans are being worked on. Mr. Root requested that staff consider an access lane off of Lake Drive as a way of addressing some of the traffic and safety concerns raised. Chair Rafferty stated the access issue will be reviewed once comments are received from Anoka County. He asked if the applicant has received approval from Rice Creek Watershed District. Mr. Knutson replied they have submitted their plans to the Watershed District and a meeting is scheduled for November 22. Chair Rafferty closed the public hearing at 8:26 p.m. Mr. Root made a MOTION to continue the public hearing for the project, and was supported by Mr. Laden. Motion carried 5 -0. Chair Rafferty recessed the meeting at 8:27 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 8:32 p.m. DRAFT MINUTES • • •