11/13/1996 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • • Planning & Zoning Board November 13, 1996 the question about events and activities at his outdoor sports arena. The Council has previously discussed this question and found Mr. Rehbein's facility to be acceptable. He would recommend eliminating provision 9.a. on page 5 -7, which requires the activity to be within a building. Mr. Robinson made a MOTION to close the public hearing at 7:31 p.m. and was supported by Johnson. Motion carried unanimously, 6 -0. Mr. Gelbmann noted that some communities are creating a special district for cell towers. He asked if the zoning ordinance addresses that issue. Mr. Brixius responded that he is not prepared to give information on this issue at this time. However, the Permanent Communication Services (PCS) has identified the need to set up antennas at every 1- or 2- square mile radius for new technology. An individual cell antenna can be small and attached to the top of a flag pole, water tower or telephone pole. The bigger concern is the need for master towers which are from 50 feet to 150 feet tall. Finding locations for them is an issue. FCC rules prohibit communities from establishing ordinances to prohibit these units. Reasonable accommodation is required under FCC rules. Most communities allow them on public land, parks, water towers or public works areas with less restrictions on commercial and industrial sites. The northwestern communities of Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Maple Grove and Plymouth are in the process of developing a model ordinance for each of those communities. A second issue to address with regard to utilities is who has the right to use public rights -of -way. Mr. Dunn commended the work group who achieved these comprehensive changes to improve the zoning ordinance. He questioned, however, whether approval of the new zoning ordinance should be delayed until the changes being made to the City's Comprehensive Plan are adopted because once the Comprehensive Plan is approved by the Metropolitan Council, it will take precedence over the zoning ordinance. Mr. Brixius stated that the Land Use Plan and Comprehensive Plan are policy driven, but changes to the zoning ordinance are under local control. The zoning code is specific to planning as an implementation tool, and there is no major change in content. Specific areas were changed to address specific issues. Additional changes will be necessary over time as new issues arise, such as PCS towers and when the new Comprehensive Plan is adopted. However, it is important to adopt the zoning ordinance at this time, so that the new format and provisions are in place. Mr. Dunn stated that he believes a permit system would be appropriate with a nominal charge for all accessory buildings and asked that suitable language be included.