03/14/2012 P&Z Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board January 11, 2012 Page 3 Mr. Bengtson stated that board member packets included a review of actions taken by the P &Z Board in 2011, including subsequent council actions and administrative approvals. B. Lakewood Apartments (added to agenda at meeting) Mr. Bengtson stated that staff is seeking comment from the P &Z Board members regarding the Lakewood Apartments. Staff explained that the building was designed for commercial on the first floor with apartments above. There have been no commercial users since the building was constructed. The city has been approached by an interested party to convert the first floor commercial into rental residential use. Staff noted that the user could likely create eleven residential apartment units. Staff has not been given specific information on apartment details as no formal plans have been submitted. Staff is looking for direction from the board as to the interest `in this transition. Board members asked what it would take to make this change. Mr. Bengtson stated that multiple amendments would be made to the Planned Unit Development. Staff noted that this would take a significant amount of staff tirne to deteiriniine what would need to be done. In addition, the change in use could potentially change the uses of additional sites within the Town Center. Staff noted that the vacant properties in the Town Center went tax forfeit. Board Member comments included the following: o Is the commercial space being marketed? With the YMCA as busy as it is and with the apartment building mostly full, it seems that there would be some interest in commercial. o Concerned about the domino effect that might change the PUD for the entire site Could this provide an opportunity to work with Anoka County regarding the vacant land? It seems like the conversion would be a short-term fix that they may not like in the future. Would like to keep the character and intent of the site the same. o The original design of first floor commercial is still a good plan. • The city should review the entire concept plan of the Town Center area before they start piece- mealing individual sites. • In general, the city should react to the market. Filling up eleven units could spark additional development. o The city should not change what was envisioned and conceived in its entirety just because the market is down right now. Would like to see the end result of what was originally planned. That's what planning is all about. The city shouldn't let the market dictate everything that comes into the city. DRAFT MINUTES