04/12/2000 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board April 12, 2000 Page 18 responded that some aspects do comply but some do not. The location of the building on the lot and large parking areas do not comply. He stated the buildings are quite nice and were negotiated designs. Since that time, Staff found the investment in the structures could have been more in the street level. With the new standards, the parking areas would have been combined. Mr. Smyser stated the design and placement of those two commercial uses are more compatible with the highway district as opposed to the mixed use area. Mr. Smyser stated that good comments have been received tonight and at next month's hearing additional information will be provided on the roadway issues that were raised tonight. He thanked all in attendance for their comments. Mr. Johnson made a MOTION to continue the public hearing to the May 10, 2000 Planning and Zoning Board meeting., and was supported by Mr. Rafferty. Motion carried 6 -0. VI. DISCUSSION ITEMS A. DNR Smart Growth Greenways Plan Mr. Smyser advised that Lino Lakes and th ' °t cooperating in a DNR initiated program called the Wildland Urban Interf. = e Pr• ,am. The DNR's goal is to assist local governments with preserving habitat • • dl , water quality, and other natural resources. The DNR has asked Li ugo to be the two cities to participate in this program to work with urb i ities to attempt to minimize the impact on natural resources. Mr. Smys w he three parts to this program and the indication from the DNR that they w . u • further refinements of the natural resource inventory and will make suggesti� • h• o improve the City's method. The City of Hugo will work with a landowner . "development project to create a model for subdivisions that have less negativ „a . ct'• he environment. The City of Lino Lakes is under no obligation to follo�'��ommendations from the DNR. Mr. Smyser noted that Staff has considered deve ing a guidebook to assist small acreage landowners in resource management and the NR program gives the City an opportunity to have the DNR do a large amount of that work. Mr. Smyser stated this is being provided as informational since it may result in the need for ordinance amendments. Chair Schaps inquired regarding "smart growth" initiatives. Mr. Smyser explained it is a combination of using less land to accommodate development (more density) and to be more environmentally friendly with fewer natural impacts. He stated in the City's Town Center, clustering, the preservation program, and sustainable development all addresses smart growth initiatives. Chair Schaps asked if the DNR is asking for the opportunity to become involved, review projects, site plans, etc., and then offer suggestions on how it could be done in a more environmentally friendly or smarter manner but the City has no obligation to follow their • •