06/23/1997 Council Minutes (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNCIL MINUTES JUNE 23, 1997 Comprehensive Plan update, all that has been received so far is neighborhood input. There has been some indication that the City should be looking at additional commercial uses in various areas, with the exception of the quadrant around I -35W and Lake Drive. Mr. Wessel stated the City will probably be looking at additional commercial zones. Mayor Landers pointed out part of the assessment includes the $98,000 contribution to the Ware Road improvement and he does not believe the Council wants to jeopardize that contribution. Council Member Lyden stated no one has answered his question about who is responsible to set policy by which we achieve our goals. He asserted with the current policy, if a housing development comes in, the Council looks at it and approves it. Mayor Landers responded it is everyone's responsibility, the Council, staff, and public, which is why input is being received from residents on the Comprehensive Plan. Council Member Lyden stated his perception that the "dog should wag the tail" not the other way around, and leadership, policy, and direction comes from the Council. Council Member Kuether moved to adopt SECOND READING of Ordinance No. 02 - 97 as presented. Council Member Bergeson seconded the motion. Motion carried with Council Member Lyden voting nay. Ordinance No. 02 - 97 can be found at the end of these minutes. Consideration of FIRST READING Ordinance No. 09 - 97, Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment (4/5ths vote) - Mr. Brixius explained that the Planning and Zoning Board initiated a review and revision of the City's Zoning Ordinance in the Spring of 1995. Numerous work sessions were held over an 18 month period and a public hearing held in November of 1996. At that Public Hearing the revised document was approved by the Planning and Zoning Board. Since that time, the Council has had an opportunity to review the document and discuss the proposed revisions. He reviewed results of the proposed text amendments to provide better clarification and language that is easier to understand. Staff recommends approval of first reading. Council Member Lyden stated his appreciation for staffs work on this amendment and expressed concern about the "grandparent apartment" issue and whether it can be enforced in the spirit intended. Mr. Brixius advised this was discussed and looked at as a means to accommodate a live-in parent or child. He concurred with the concern about creating a two-family unit and advised staff has attempted to create an application process to allow the request to occur yet define it so it does not become a defined second dwelling unit. He commented on the Planning and Zoning Board consideration and that this type of unit was deemed to be a public benefit to the community. Council Member Bergeson asked about the square footage that needs to be remaining. Mr. Brixius explained 960 square feet needs to be remaining but the unit also cannot be more than 40% of the total building size. 5