02/28/2000 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • COUNCIL MINUTES FEBRUARY 28, 2000 provide some screening. The exterior finish of the building is proposed to be upgraded to include a brick face. Parking areas and drive aisles have been reduced which eliminates some pavement and provides more green space on the site. Overall, the changes appear to create a site that is more compatible with the surroundings through the use of setbacks, landscaping and a reduction in paved surface. Council Member Carlson asked if the footprint of the building has changed. Ms. Sherman advised the footprint has changed slightly to 26,016 square feet. Mr. Steve Valentine, Pastor of the church, came forward and thanked everyone present that is supportive of the project. He asked those who are in favor of the project to stand up. Pastor Valentine gave the background of the church and how they have gotten to this point in the process. He stated the church has a saying "People matter to God and they matter to us". He stated the church is here to serve and support the community. The Church staff believes they would be a good neighbor. Mr. Gary Nordness, Developer of the project, came forward and identified the size of the site noting the impervious surface is 15%. The remainder of the site is wetland and green area. He stated the applicant has worked with City staff, various City Boards, and the neighborhood. All changes to the plan enhance the project. The project will enhance the land purchased for the athletic complex also. Mr. Nordness reviewed the revised plan in detail noting the changes were due to the reaction of City staff, City Boards, Council Members, and the neighbors. Council Member O'Donnell asked if the site utilization is from the cattails or ordinary high water mark. Mr. Nordness advised the site utilization be from the ordinary high water. Mr. Mark Finnemann, Architect for the project, stated he believes the church is a good use for the site. Changes will take place in the area regardless of whether or not the project is approved. He indicated he did not understand why staff could not give a full recommendation. He stated he believes that all issues relating to the final engineering plan can be resolved. The applicant tried to meet all the concerns of the neighborhood. He referred to drawings showing the different views of the building from the street. He noted that all guidelines were met in the original plan. The plan is now a better plan. The applicant has agreed to share parking with the athletic complex. The building is well buffered. He reviewed the building, colors and materials that were used to meet all the neighborhood concerns. He stated he would really like to see the project come to a conclusion this evening. Mr. Nordness noted a perpetual easement was granted to the City that will access the athletic complex. 8