09/09/2009 P&Z Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• North Springs Church CUP page 3 The extra right of way squeezed the site a little. In order to fit the proposed building and parking drive, the VFW requested a setback variance. The required setback from an arterial roadway (Lake Drive, CSAH 23) is 40'. The building would be approximately 34' from the new property line. The parking drive would be about 5' from the line instead of the required 15'. Since the full right of way would be in place, it eliminated concern about additional roadway needs, the public costs of condemning land, and possibly demolishing buildings or other facilities. The building is six feet closer than normally required and the parking drive is 9.5' closer than normally required. Another issue here was the 5'+ of land for landscaping between the parking curb and the right of way. It is difficult to provide extensive landscaping and screening in this strip. However, there is little screening along Lake Drive in this commercial area and the project significantly improved the appearance of the site, including landscaping. The setback variances were granted along with the VFW project approval (Resol. 04 -18). These variances continue with the site and building. Lighting: Plans show fixtures in the parking lot on six poles. Three, in the northern parking area, have two fixtures each and have been installed. One single fixture is to be near the Lois Lane driveway, and two others in the southern parking area. The one near the Lois Lane driveway location has been installed, even though the driveway and parking have not. In addition, it is crooked and must be repaired. The submitted photometric plan indicates that lighting meets city standards: no more than 0.4 foot candles at the residential property line to the east, and no more than 1 0 at street right of way lines. The exterior building lighting is included. The submitted fixture cut sheets show 90 degree cut off fixtures in compliance with city requirements. The lighting under the north and south entry canopies is completely recessed. Oddly, the fixtures shown on building elevations and installed on the exterior walls do not match those on the lighting plan in type or number. This did not result in a significant discrepancy, and the existing lights are acceptable. There seems to be another pedestal for a light near the Lake Drive driveway. This is not included on the lighting plan. If a light is to be installed here, it must be determined what type of fixture and a photometric analysis done to ensure it meets city standards. Three flagpoles were installed, and were shown on plans. However, no lighting for the flags was included on the lighting or any other plan. One large lamp was installed to shine up on the flag, and poles for two more are present. Since these lamps were not included in the original approved plans, they should not be there. The additional lights raise questions about glare for motorists and effects of skyward lighting on nearby residents. If the church wants these lamps, it must submit a photometric analysis to ensure city standards are met. Even if the standards are met, landscaping around the lights must be installed. If the lamps don't meet city requirements, the existing one must be removed and the wiring for all safely addressed.