10/14/2015 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board October 14, 2015 Page 5 APPROVED MINUTES Mr. Eagles ensured that they would have included commercial space in the development if they thought it would be viable. Mr. Laden commented on market studies saying that 5 years ago market studies would have indicated that none of this development should be built. Mr. Eagles explained that they have been doing market studies in the area for the last 15 years and it is evident from the amount of properties still waiting to be sold in the strip mall in White Bear Township and the nearby properties in Lino Lakes that the area is not a successful commercial district. Mr. Hyden pointed out that you can only exit off the freeway in one direction. Mr. Eagles noted that they discussed the ramp issue with MnDOT and explained the barriers that would restrict them from creating another off ramp. City staff specified that they are just looking for input at this time from the board. Mr. Evenson stated that he is not opposed to the absence of commercial property in this development given the amount of available properties in the vicinity for the last 15 years. He added that if it had been a booming area it would have been established by now. Mr. Kassner provided his input saying that he would like to see commercial property included in the development if they are unable to incorporate the 140 additional units. He also mentioned that since the last market study was done 5 years ago, he would like to see this revisited since the market has changed vastly in the last 5 years. Mr. Kassner is confident that retail properties such as Starbucks would do well next to the freeway to catch people on their way to work. No further action is required at this time. C. PUBLIC HEARING to consider Amendment to Chapter 1103: Floodplain Management Ms. Larsen introduced Katy Thompson of WSB & Associates, Inc. Ms. Thompson presented the staff report. Staff recommends approval of proposed Ordinance No. 10-15. Mr. Laden asked where we have floodways in the city. Ms. Thompson responded that the City of Lino Lakes currently does not have any floodways. It is required to adopt all three districts in case the city decides to pursue detailed studies in the future. Mr. Laden asked about Rice Creek and Ms. Thompson explained that Rice Creek is just a floodplain and if a developer decided to develop in that area they would need to be able to determine if it was in a floodway or floodplain and what they would be allowed to do on their property. Mr. Hyden wanted to clarify that you can’t build on the floodway, but you can build on the fringe. Ms. Thompson confirmed that this is correct and noted that the houses just need to be elevated. She discussed that everything in Lino Lakes is a general floodplain, which means it is the developer’s responsibility to determine whether or not they fall into the floodway or floodplain.