07/29/2009 Env Bd Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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project will generate traffic. The traffic impacts were the subject of extensive analysis and there is no clear public safety danger. i. The proposed development will not result in the destruction, loss, or damage of a natural, scenic or historic feature of major importance. The Environmental Assessment Worksheet review process concluded that the project would have no significant environmental impacts. 10. As listed in Section 5, Subd. 1.G.8. of the zoning ordinance, churches are allowed as conditional uses in the Rural zone provided that: a. Side yard setbacks shall not be less than fifty (50) feet; b. Adequate screening from abutting residential uses and landscaping is provided; and c. Adequate off - street parking and access is and parking is adequately screened and landscaped. The project complies with the required setbacks. The plans include adequate off - street parking and access. The landscaping plan includes significant screening. 11. The maximum building height in the Rural zone is 35', though Sec. 3, Subd. 4.C. allows that church spires may go up to 60' and that building heights in excess of these may be allowed through a conditional use permit provided that: a. Demonstrated need is established for the increase in height and said increase will not violate the intent and character of the zoning district in which the structure is located. • Contemporary churches are commonly large, tall buildings. The large worship space requires a tall structure. The site is large and the structure will be set back significant distances from property lines. b. The site is capable of accommodating the increased structure size. • At 82 acres, the church lot can accommodate the additional building height. c. The potential increased intensity and size of use does not cause an increase in traffic volumes beyond the capacity of the surrounding streets. • The additional 14' of building height does not increase traffic volume. d. Public utilities and services are adequate. • The church will construct its own water and sanitary sewer facilities. e. For each additional story over the district limitation or for each additional ten (10) feet above the maximum allowed per district, front and side yard setback requirements shall be increased by ten (10) percent. • As noted in the zoning standards table above, the setbacks are well beyond minimum requirements. f. The construction does not limit solar access to abutting and/or neighboring properties. A shadow study shall be required illustrating shadow encroachment on adjoining properties. • The shadow study shows no impact on neighboring property. Resolution 04 -17, page 3