02/08/2006 P&Z Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • • Planning & Zoning Board December 14, 2005 Page 11 Staff explained that the deadline for board applications for 2006 has been extended to January 31, 2006 to accommodate sufficient candidates for city boards. Applications are available to interested residents in the administration department. D. Requiring sidewalk in subdivisions Staff requested this discussion be limited to board members. The board took a 5 minute recess at 9:45 p.m. The board reconvened at 9:50 p.m. Mr. Root distributed some information regarding sidewalks. One article stated that sidewalks are beneficial to not only connect destinations, but are pedestrian friendly. Sidewalks contribute to a community as a place where people can meet and talk. A second handout included a table showing levels of neighborhood accessibility. High accessibility provided communication within a neighborhood. Mr. Root stated it is wrong to expect people and children to share the same space as cars in areas without sidewalks. He noted this is not in any way intended to address existing neighborhoods, but for future neighborhoods. He would like to propose, if the board agrees, to request that city staff begin to research and gather data from other communities in the area, as to how they handle sidewalks. Mr. Laden agreed with Mr. Root's comments. He added that sidewalks are important for safety issues, especially for children, the elderly, and people with less mobility. He stated that sidewalks encourage exercise for those who want to walk, and even shovel in the winter; they promote neighborhood interaction and strengthen communities; they bring a level of higher security; they provide connections between neighborhoods; and they are good for the environment. Sidewalks can increase property value, which is a benefit to the community. If the option of sidewalks is left to the developer, the city will end up with a patchwork and not a connection. In order to be effective, they would need to be required in all new developments. He recognizes the fact that not everyone wants a sidewalk in their front yard. Therefore, he proposed that sidewalks be placed on one side of every street, not both. With that approach, not less than 50 percent would be without sidewalks. He has been told that they really don't affect home sales, but in general help sales when selling homes to families. Mr. Nelson stated he is opposed to a sidewalk ordinance and to staff spending time on research. He surveyed his neighborhood of approximately 50 homes, and all were strongly opposed to sidewalks. They told him that the reason they moved to the suburbs is because there are no sidewalks. They run and ride bikes, and have not had a problem. Sidewalks would make small lots smaller. That's why they've invested in a trail system, which is conducive to walking & biking. Mr. Pogalz echoed Mr. Nelson's comments. He agreed that a lot of people don't want people on their property, and that maintenance is a concern if not kept up with. Overall, he doesn't think they are used. When placed in residential areas, driveways may become shorter, which may cause people to park into the sidewalk area. He pointed out that the