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Planning & Zoning Board <br />November 8, 2006 <br />Page 7 <br />much traffic. Mr. Smyser added that the former applicant has been in contact with city <br />staff, and that staff is keeping them informed. <br />Mr. Smyser said the intent is to create an urban form for the area. The city would like <br />cornerstone buildings at the intersections, with parking lots behind the buildings or with <br />increased landscaping. The city would like to offer pedestrian oriented features. <br />Mr. Laden asked if there will be written architectural standards for this area. Mr. Smyser <br />referred to the 8th bullet point on page 34, and added that design guidelines should be <br />incorporated with each approval. He explained that because there are numerous property <br />owners, each development could submit their own design guidelines. <br />Board members inquired about pedestrian flow. Mr. Smyser explained that pedestrian <br />opportunities depend on the stores involved and the design of the whole development. <br />Mr. Root appreciated staff s efforts to address making the plan pedestrian friendly. He <br />asked how limited we are by the county not allowing a signal at the intersection to the <br />north. Mr. Smyser addressed that it will eliminate some users in the area that will want a <br />signal, but it is not going to happen in the foreseeable future. He added that many <br />lengthy discussions occurred with the Anoka County Highway Department. Mr. Smyser <br />stated that a signal could be likely ten years from now, but the bottom line is that it is a <br />county road and the Anoka Cty Hwy Dept determines the policies. <br />Mr. Laden commented that limiting business at that location may not be a bad thing. <br />Mr. Root stated concern for economic development. Mr. Smyser said they think they <br />have found a balance. <br />Mr. Root commented on the existing businesses and wondered at what point they plan <br />development around them. Mr. Smyser replied the proposed plan does allow for the <br />Rock Gardens and the Auto Sales lot to continue to exist. He said that it is more likely <br />that the value of the properties will increase so it may become advantageous to do <br />something different with the properties. <br />Mr. Root asked how big the pictured "big box" is. Mr. Smyser replied about 55,000 sq. <br />feet, giving perspective that the Lino Lakes SuperTarget is 180,000 sq. ft. <br />Mr. Nelson inquired if the 49 Club will have ample access to develop. Mr. Smyser <br />responded that this is the most imminent situation, and that one developer potentially <br />controls a large amount of property north of it. They will have to plan to accommodate <br />the proposed access. <br />Mr. Nelson asked what would happen to Sadder's Automotive. Mr. Smyser said they <br />have not yet determined the process for future road improvements, and that Sadder's is an <br />issue that has to be dealt with. <br />DRAFT MINUTES <br />