HomeMy WebLinkAboutPZ Packet; 03-12-18Lake Elmo Planning Commission Minutes; 2-26-18
City of Lake Elmo
Planning Commission Meeting
Minutes of February 26, 2018
Chairman Dodson called to order the meeting of the Lake Elmo Planning Commission at
7:00 p.m.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Kreimer, Dodson, Dorschner, Emerson, Pearce, Weeks,
Lundquist, Johnson, & Hartley
COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Planning Director Becker and City Administrator Handt
Approve Agenda:
M/S/P: Dodson/Lundquist, move to approve the agenda as amended, Vote: 7-0, motion
carried unanimously
Approve Minutes: February 12, 2018
M/S/P: Dodson/Lundquist, move to approve the February 12, 2018 minutes as
amended, Vote: 7-0, motion carried unanimously.
Business Item – Zoning Text Amendment – Subdivision Ordinance
Becker started her presentation on the subdivision ordinance outlining the changes to
the ordinance. Dodson would like to break this down into 2 parts. The overall high level
questions and then talk about the language within the ordinance.
Dorschner is wondering what the purpose of reviewing this is. Becker stated that it was
originally brought up because of the submittal requirements. There are also other
changes that need to be made such as platting requirements and removing specific
engineering design standards.
Becker stated that the state requires properties to be platted if a subdivision creates 5
or more lots that are 2.5 acres or less. Becker stated that the City can be more
restrictive than the state, but can’t be less restrictive. Becker wanted the Planning
Commission to provide feedback on if the subdivision ordinance should be more
restrictive than it already is.
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Lake Elmo Planning Commission Minutes; 2-26-18
Dodson would like to see platting required for more than 2 lots because the value of the
lots created outweigh the costs of platting. Hartley agrees with the result not
necessarily the reasoning.
Dorschner feels that Lake Elmo is already more restrictive than the state. Dorschner
wants to know what problem is being solved by lowering the number of parcels for a
minor subdivision. Dodson asked about the fees for platting and is wondering if those
fees cover the cost for the City services.
Dorschner does not feel that the creation of four lots is worth the time and staf f
resources to require platting. He feels that the state must have some logic for picking 5
lots and the city is more conservative than that. Johnson would agree with that and
there are more large lots here. Johnson also feels that a required survey takes away the
problems associated with metes and bounds properties. Johnson would prefer to go
with the requirement of the state as it gives the property owner more freedom.
Emerson feels that a person creating four or fewer lots should not have to go through
the expense and process of platting and make it more restrictive. Weeks agrees with
this because sometimes it is a generational thing and they are platting for their children.
Dodson asked if there is a way to plat the property without going through the whole
process of concept, preliminary plat and final plat. Becker stated that some Cities do
what is called a minor plat which waives some of the requirements. Some of the things
waived would be some engineering plans, landscape plans, etc.
Handt stated that in a previous city that she worked in, they required plats all the time,
even when going through the minor subdivision process. In that case, preliminary and
final plat were done at the same time to shorten that process. Dorschner feels that
there could be another easier process for the minor subdivision where a plat is received,
but there is not a lengthy process and there is a different fee associated.
Dorschner is in favor of recording subdivided properties as a plat, but is not in favor of
the other requirements such as soil testing and landscaping. Dodson agrees that it
should not go through as heavy of a process. Weeks has no problem doing away with
metes and bounds as long as the process is not more burdensome for the property
owner.
Dodson thinks there should be two separate processes. One for a minor subdivision and
one for a major subdivision. The majority of the Commission felt that 4 was the right
number for a minor subdivision. Five or more would be a major subdivision.
Becker stated that currently all that is required for a minor subdivision is a survey.
Handt suggested that the requirement be changed to a platted survey. Hartley stated
that when the lots are created, soil testing should be done. Handt agreed that it should
be done at the time of minor subdivision so that unbuildable lots are not created.
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Lake Elmo Planning Commission Minutes; 2-26-18
Dodson pointed out some discrepancies such as administrator listed multiple times. This
could be City Administrator or Zoning Administrator.
Dodson would propose adding a letter (M) to 153.08 Final Plat to be any changes that
deviate from preliminary plat. Handt stated that A-L are items that are listed on the
final plat, so maybe language could be added that a list of changes accompany the final
plat under (B) (1). Dodson would also like to add to 153.15 that if a CIC Community is
created, that the developer must provide proof that a replacement reserve amount was
created in accordance with Minnesota Statute 515(b)(3)-1141.
Dodson would also like to talk about 153.14 Parkland Dedication. Becker stated that she
did research and the City of Lake Elmo is comparable to other cities, so she is not
proposing any other changes. Dorschner feels the parkland dedication fee is arbitrary
and feels that there should be a solid basis for what is charged. Handt stated that
Parkland dedication cannot be used for ongoing maintenance of parks, but is for capital
expenditures.
Weeks stated that as part of the Comprehensive Plan workshops, it was talked about
that for the size of the City, we are kind of maxed out on parks at 17. Weeks thinks
maybe the numbers could be tweaked. Kreimer feels that the parkland dedication fund
is not for the Planning Commission to discuss. It should be finance committee, City
Council and/or Parks Commission. Handt likes the percentage vs. a flat amount as it
keeps up with land values. Handt also stated that there is not enough parkland
dedication funds to fund the next 5 years of the CIP. Lundquist stated that parkla nd
ensures open space.
Business Item – Zoning Text Amendment – Outdoor Lighting Ordinance
Becker started her presentation regarding the outdoor lighting ordinance. This
ordinance proposes eliminating the fixture data sheet. There are proposed exceptions
to the lighting ordinance such as temporary lighting, public safety lighting, holiday lights,
etc.
Dorschner asked if there are a lot of violations that have been acted on. Becker stated
that she has dealt with one since she has been here. Dorschner is wondering how the
ordinance is enforced without a light meter. Becker stated that if there was a
complaint, the City would need to get a light meter.
Hartley asked about the ornamental lighting and what low wattage is. Hartley stated
that the low wattage should be changed to 100 initial output lumens and can strike low
voltage. Dorschner doesn’t like the idea that people can’t use basic lights that you can
get at Menards. Johnson stated it might be direction of the light and how high the
lighting is mounted. Weeks thinks 200 lumens would be reasonable and others agreed.
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Lake Elmo Planning Commission Minutes; 2-26-18
Kreimer thought the purpose of looking at this ordinance was to eliminate some of the
street lights to keep with the dark sky ordinance. Johnson feels that the dark sky
sentiment should be kept, but simplified. Weeks stated that the lights on Lake Elmo Ave
do not meet the lighting ordinance. Dodson stated that Xcel does not offer lighting that
would meet our ordinance but the City can limit the number of lights to try to keep to
the dark sky ordinance. Lundquist stated that many people have stated that they want
to maintain the dark sky. Pearce stated that he is in favor of the dark sky. He thinks
that there should be enough lights for safety, but not too many that it detracts.
Dorschner stated that the County put in an unbelievable amount of lighting on the Cross
Country ski trails in the park preserve. Dorschner is wondering why the City isn’t
regulating that. Becker stated that technically the code would require review on the
lighting being installed there. Johnson stated that they might be too bright, but he likes
the design and height and would like to see the design in other areas such as walkways
and parks.
Dorschner stated that he wants to see an ordinance that is enforceable. He would also
like to see permits required to minimize complaints. Handt isn’t convinced that a permit
will minimize complaints because people still need to know to come in and get a permit.
Kreimer asked about new construction and what kind of lights are required. Becker
stated that the proposal is that as long as it is 4/10 foot candles at the property line.
Kreimer doesn’t like the change. He likes that everyone has downcast light or there is a
lot of extra light created. Dodson would like to see review of lighting at the time of
building permit for new homes.
Weeks asked if the design standards make any reference to exterior lighting. Becker
stated that there is some, but more in regards to streetscape.
Dorschner asked about 150.036 (A) (2) that the plan needs to be prepared by a certified
architect, landscape architect, or lighting designer. He feels that this is very expensive
and onerous. Handt pointed out that this is only for commercial and multi-family.
Dorschner is concerned that these might not be the appropriate people to do the plan
and shouldn’t be a requirement as long as it meets the ordinance. Becker stated that
was in the existing code but can certainly be changed, but if they are certified, there is
more guarantee that the information provided is accurate.
Dorschner wants to follow the staff recommendation because he feels the City is being
too restrictive. Weeks agrees with the way that the staff drafted the proposed
ordinance. Dodson is in favor of the dark sky and keeping the light pollution at a
minimum with keeping the lighting downward.
M/S/P: Dorschner/Hartley, move to recommend approval of the ordinance amending
the Lake Elmo city code of ordinances by amending the regulations pertaining to
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Lake Elmo Planning Commission Minutes; 2-26-18
lighting, glare control, and exterior lighting standards with the change of voltage and
wattage as discussed, Vote: 7-0, motion carried unanimously.
Dodson is for the motion, but would like to express his concern that he would like to
make sure that new construction has an inspection to make sure that it complies with
the City ordinance. There was agreement from other Commission members.
City Council Updates – February 8, 2018 Meeting
i) Wyndham Village Sketch Plan and Comp Plan Amendment – passed
ii) Legacy at Northstar Preliminary Plat & PUD Plans – passed
iii) Lake Elmo Inn Parking Lot CUP – passed
iv) 4564 Kimbro Ave Minor Subdivision & ZMA – passed
v) Hammes 3rd Final Plat – passed
vi) Northport Development Agreement Amendment – passed
vii) Solar Ordinance – passed
viii) Chicken Ordinance - tables
Staff Updates
1. Upcoming Meetings
a. March 12, 2018
b. March 26, 2018
2. Comprehensive Plan Update
3. Rossow v. City of Lake Elmo – Supreme Court Denied petition for review of plat
Commission Concerns
Handt stated that Commission concerns will go away as it is not part of the code of
ordinances for the agenda. Handt would like Commissioners to bring things directly to
staff to determine if it can be added to the work plan. Handt stated that she is wor king
with the League of Minnesota Cities to develop training documents for new Commission
members.
Meeting adjourned at 9:40 pm
Respectfully submitted,
Joan Ziertman
Planning Program Assistant
Chapter 3: Land Use
Existing & Future
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Draft 2040 Future Land Use Plan
Urban Reserve
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ELU Draft 1/27/2018
Existing Land Use
Lake Elmo Parcels
ELU
RAD
RE
RSF
V-LDR
LDR
V-MDR
MDR
HDR
MXD
Undeveloped
LB
BP
GB
C
Industrial
Institutional
Golf Course
PSP
Park/OS
ROW
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ELU Draft 1/27/2018
Existing Land Use
Lake Elmo Parcels
ELU
RAD
RE
RSF
V-LDR
LDR
V-MDR
MDR
HDR
MXD
Undeveloped
LB
BP
GB
C
Industrial
Institutional
Golf Course
PSP
Park/OS
ROW
Comprehensive Plan 2040
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
3
INTRODUCTION
The City of Lake Elmo is a growing, dynamic, and diverse community that has
experienced significant change over the past planning period. The City’s proximity to
jobs, access and regional amenities means that the City will likely continue to experience
external pressures to grow. Consequently, it is essential for the City to develop a
thoughtful, well-planned approach to its future land uses and growth strategy. The
following chapter will focus first on existing land uses that will provide a baseline from
which the Future Land Use Plan (“FLU”) was derived. The FLU guides anticipated
densities of new neighborhoods, locations of future mixed-use and employment centers,
and guides land for commercial and retail services through 2040. The community
understands that while there is significant growth pressure and demand today for certain
types of development, that demand is likely to ebb and flow and change over the next
several decades as market trends fluctuate. More detail regarding current market trends
and development can be found in Chapter 4. Balanced Development & Growth within
this Plan; however, the pace of growth is addressed through the Staging Plan that is
included in subsequent sections of this chapter. The Staging Plan provides sequential
geographic areas available for development and growth during prescribed time periods
that methodically allows for contiguous development and cost-effective expansion of
municipal services to undeveloped areas of the community.
The Future Land Use, Staging and Special Area plans contained within this chapter,
if consistently followed and implemented, directly support the goals and objectives
contained within Chapter 1: Vision, Goals & Strategies. The intent of this chapter is to
demonstrate where land use changes are anticipated, where existing land use patterns are
guided to stay the same, and how these land uses patterns will continue to support the
identity and character of the community through this planning period.
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
4
2040 Land Use Highlights – What’s to Come
»The Existing Land Use Patterns in the Rural Residential
areas should be protected through this planning period;
some new rural residential neighborhoods, including open
space developments, are anticipated to develop consistent
with the City’s rural tradition.
»New Future Land Use designations will allow for a better
response to market conditions and will allow a greater
options in land use choices.
»Integration of more diverse neighborhood patterns and
densities will allow for a stronger commitment to the
staging plan.
»Refinement of staging and infrastructure phasing to
promote contiguous, well-planned development.
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
5
Existing Land Use
The existing land use patterns reflect the City’s past commitment to the rural landscape
and investment in development of primarily single-family detached housing. Rural
residential neighborhoods with conventional rural subdivisions and open space
development subdivisions are sprinkled throughout much of the community’s
landscape. The many lakes of the City are dotted with smaller residential lots that
once were dominated by vacation homes that have now transitioned to full-time
residences. The Lake Elmo Regional Park Reserve is centered in the City providing
a hub of natural and recreational resources for both City and metro-area residents.
The “Old Village” is the historical hub of activity in the City, and a mix of uses is
present today including some residential, commercial and office users. Business uses,
employment pockets and retail/service users are primarily located in or near the “Old
Village”, along the I-94 corridor, or at major intersections and thoroughfares.
In Lake Elmo’s 2030 Comprehensive Plan, the City’s existing land uses did not
include any areas that were connected to municipal services or located within the
Metropolitan Urban Service Area (“MUSA”). Now, in this 2040 Plan, the existing
land use patterns include neighborhoods that have been developed or are under
construction that were guided in the MUSA in the previous plan. The availability of
municipal services has allowed for the addition of new land use patterns that can be found
in developing neighborhoods such as Inwood, Savona, and Easton Village. Additionally,
the Old Village area has been incrementally served and connected to municipal services
over the past decade, which has allowed for existing small-lot residential neighborhoods
to be served, as well as new neighborhoods under development. While the developing
neighborhoods in the MUSA continue to be dominated by single-family detached uses,
some diversification has started to emerge as a few small pockets of medium-density
residential uses are under construction and development.
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Table 3-1. Existing Land Use
Existing Land Uses Residential Density
(dwelling units/acre)Acres % Total Acres
Agricultural Preserve (AP)0.025 414.70 2.67%
Rural Area Development (RAD)0.1 6,040.82 38.96%
Rural Estate (RE)0.1 -0.4 815.26 5.26%
Rural Single Family (RSF)0.66 - 2.0 1,754.14 11.31%
Low Density Residential (LDR)2 - 4 182.06 1.17%
Medium Density Residential (MDR)4 - 8 231.41 1.49%
Village - Low Density Residential (V-LDR)1 - 4 36.08 0.23%
Village - Medium Density Residential
(V-MDR)4 - 6 48.18 0.31%
Mixed Use (MU)5 - 12 4.93 0.03%
Undeveloped (U)Various 392.15 2.53%
Limited Business (LB)NA 71.79 0.46%
Business Park (BP)NA 88.01 0.57%
General Business (GB)NA 70.09 0.45%
Commercial (C)NA 50.27 0.32%
Institutional (INST)NA 305.40 1.97%
Closed Landfill (CL)NA 67.53 0.44%
Public/Semi-Public (PSP)NA 123.55 0.80%
Golf Course (GC)NA 267.36 1.72%
Parks & Open Space (POS)NA 2,593.74 16.72%
Right of Way (ROW)NA 594.18 3.83%
Open Water NA 1,355.29 8.74%
TOTAL 15,506.96 100.00%
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Map 3-1: Existing Land Use Map 2018
F
ELU Draft 1/27/2018
Existing Land Use
Lake Elmo Parcels
ELU
RAD
RE
RSF
V-LDR
LDR
V-MDR
MDR
HDR
MXD
Undeveloped
LB
BP
GB
C
Industrial
Institutional
Golf Course
PSP
Park/OS
ROW
Closed Landfill
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Existing Land Use Definitions
Agricultural Preserve (AP)
This land use designation identifies land that is enrolled in the Agricultural
Preserves program. Land in this designation is required to be guided for
no more than 1 dwelling unit per 40 acres, and is protected from further
subdivision during the contract period.
Rural Area Development (RAD)
This land use designation represents the large areas of rural residential
development and agricultural uses within the City. Common uses found in
these areas include working farms, alternative agricultural uses as defined
by City Code, and rural single family detached residences. Development
in these areas requires 10+ acres, or a conditional use permit to authorize a
cluster development meeting the City’s Preserved Open Space regulations.
Rural Estate (RE)
This land use designation defines areas developed specifically for large lot
single-family detached housing typically on two or more acres of land, but
developed at densities less than one unit per ten acres.
Rural Single Family (RSF)
This land use designation identifies land that was platted for conventional
subdivision prior to 2005, and includes large lots that are primarily serviced
by private on-site well and septic system.
Low Density Residential (LDR)
This land use designation identifies land that has been developed with
primarily single-family detached housing with urban services between
2010 and 2018 at densities between 2.5 and 4 dwelling units per acre. This
existing land use is only located within the South MUSA.
Medium Density Residential (MDR)
This land use designation identifies land that has been developed primarily
with a mix of attached and detached single-family housing with urban
services between 2010 and 2018 at densities between 4.5 and 7 dwelling
units per acre, and the manufactured home park that was developed in the
1960s. This existing land use is only located within the South MUSA.
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Village - Low Density Residential (V-LDR)
This land use designation identifies land that has been developed with
primarily single-family detached housing with urban services between 2010
and 2018 at densities between 1.5 and 2.5 dwelling units per acre. This
existing land use is only located within the Village Planning MUSA.
Village - Medium Density Residential (V-MDR)
This land use designation identifies land that has been developed with
primarily single-family detached housing with urban services between
2010 and 2018 at densities between 2.5 and 5 dwelling units per acre. This
existing land use is only located within the Village Planning MUSA.
Mixed Use (MU)
This land use designation identifies land developed with a mix of
commercial and residential uses and is limited to land within the Village
Planning Area.
Undeveloped (U)
This land use designation identifies land within the South MUSA and Village
MUSA that have been approved for future sewered development through a
Preliminary Plat or PUD process, but Final Plat has not been completed.
Limited Business (LB)
This land use designation identifies areas that are developed with
commercial users that were not served by urban services. Users in this
designation are generally less intense than would be permitted in the
planned MUSA designations.
Business Park (BP)
This land use designation identifies areas used for professional businesses
including medical and research facilities, offices and corporate headquarters.
Users specifically excluded for existing park areas include warehousing,
manufacturing, distribution, assembly and truck terminals. Retail sales of
goods and services are allowed by conditional use permit.
General Business (GB)
This land use designation identifies areas used for general business activities
that currently include warehousing, light industrial and manufacturing uses.
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Commercial (C)
This land use designation identifies areas that are used for retail and
service businesses. This land use can be found within the Village MUSA
and South MUSA.
Institutional (INST)
This land use designation identifies lands that are developed with public
or semi-public uses including users such as, but not limited to, religious
institutions, schools, libraries and other civic buildings.
Public/Semi-Public (PSP)
This land use designation identifies lands that support adjacent development
with stormwater ponds and other utilities and may include ancillary uses
such as trails and small open spaces.
Golf Course (GC)
This land use designation identifies land that is used for a private golf course
and ancillary uses that may include, but not be limited to, driving range,
clubhouse and other amenity centers.
Park & Open Space (POS)
This land use designation identifies land that is used for park, recreation,
trails, other natural resources preservation. Land within this designation is
publicly owned by either the City, county, or other public agency.
Closed Landfill Restricted (CL)
This land use designation identifies former landfills that are qualified to
be under the Closed Landfill Program of the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency (MPCA). The purpose of this category is to limit uses of land within
the closed landfill, both actively filled and related lands, to minimal uses in
order to protect the land from human activity where response action systems
are in place and, at the same time, are protective of human health and safety.
Right of Way (ROW)
This land use designation includes all publicly dedicated areas that are used
for roadways, shoulders, ditches, and other improvements. It should be
noted that not all roads in the City are platted, and many are dedicated by
easement and therefore this land area is accounted for through associated
land use designation. As a result there is more land dedicated to use roads
that identified within the acreages identified on the existing land use table.
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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FUTURE LAND USE
The Future Land Use Plan (“FLU”) was
developed by building on stated goals
and strategies as identified through the
planning process and documented in
Chapter 1: Vision, Goals & Strategies.
The resulting FLU carefully balances the
recommendations and considerations
of residents, stakeholders, staff, and
policy-makers while responding to and
incorporating the regulatory requirements
of the Metropolitan Council.
The FLU is in part shaped by the policy designations the City is required to meet as
part of the Metropolitan Council’s Thrive MSP 2040 Land Use Policy as provided
within the 2015 Lake Elmo System Statement. Lake Elmo falls into two categories of
Community Designation, as described in Chapter 2: Community Context. Each of these
designations carries responsibility for the related Community Role in the regional growth
of the metropolitan area in relation to future land use. These roles are outlined in the
Metropolitan Council’s Thrive 2040 Land Use Policy and include the following land use
practices for Lake Elmo:
Emerging Suburban Edge
• Plan and stage development for forecasted growth through 2040 and
beyond at overall average net densities of at least 3-5 dwelling units per
acre in the community. Target higher-intensity developments in areas with
better access to regional sewer and transportation infrastructure, connections
to local commercial activity centers, transit facilities, and recreational
amenities. Future land use must therefore plan to accommodate a minimum
residential density of 3 du/acre within this designation.
• Identify and protect an adequate supply of land to support growth for
future development beyond 2040, with regard to agricultural viability and
natural and historic resources preservation.
• Incorporate best management practices for stormwater management and
natural resources conservation and restoration in planning processes.
• Plan for local infrastructure needs including those needed to support
future growth.
LU Goal #1. Wo rk with residents,
developers, land owners and other
stakeholders through the development
process and require development that is
consistent with the future Land Use Plan.
- Chapter 1: Vision, Goals & Strategies
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Rural Residential
• Discourage future development of rural residential patterns (unsewered
lots of 2.5 acres or less) and where opportunities exist, plan for rural
development at densities that are not greater than 1 unit per 10 acres.
Future land use must therefore plan to limit development to a maximum
residential density of 0.1 du/acre within this designation.
• Implement conservation subdivision ordinances, cluster development
ordinances, and environmental protection provisions in local land
use ordinances, consistent with the Council’s flexible residential
development guidelines.
• Promote best management practices for stormwater management,
habitat restoration, and natural resource conservation in development
plans and projects.
The two distinctive Community Designations require the City to adopt and implement
a FLU that provides a minimum residential density within the areas defined as
Emerging Suburban Edge (where MUSA is designated), while implementing a maximum
residential density for the areas identified as Rural Residential (areas not included
within the MUSA in this planning period).
The FLU must also identify appropriate land use designations and guide corresponding
acreages that support the forecasted employment growth as identified within the
System Statement. Additionally, the FLU must guide adequate land area, at appropriate
densities, that may accommodate the City’s allocated number of affordable housing
units for the period between 2021 and 2030. The employment and affordable housing
requirements will be provided for within the MUSA, and are not expected to be
met within the Rural Residential Areas. The Emerging Suburban Areas are generally
consistent with the MUSA areas identified in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan with two
exceptions; 1) the existing single-family homes on the south side of Olson Lake are now
served by MUSA; and 2) the newly designated Golf Course Community located on the
east side of the community was incorporated into the MUSA through a Comprehensive
Plan Amendment in October 2017. With the exception of these two areas, the MUSA
and corresponding Emerging Suburban Area designations are unchanged from the
previous planning period, and all projected urbanized growth can be accommodated
within the boundaries as shown on Map 3-2. 2018-2040 MUSA.
LAND USE - DRAFT 2-14-2018
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Map 3-2. 2018 – 2040 MUSA
F
Draft 2040 Future Land Use Plan - 2.12.2018
Village Planning Area
(MUSA)
South Planning Area
(MUSA)
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Future Land Use Definitions
Agricultural Preserve (AP)
This land use designation identifies land that is enrolled in the Agricultural
Preserves program. Land in this designation is required to be guided for no more
than 1 dwelling unit per 40 acres, and is protected from further subdivision during
the contract period.
Rural Area Development (RAD)
A large percentage of land in Lake Elmo falls within the Rural Area Development
designation, including single-family detached homes, working farms and agricultural
uses where land is undeveloped, cultivated in crops, or used for livestock. This
designation includes open space developments developed with clustered housing and
may be served by a community septic system. The open space developments generally
average less than 1 residential unit per 10 acres and include a dedicated open space
protected through a conservation easement. This designation is inclusive of large-lot
rural single family detached residential uses, and future conventional subdivision is
planned for densities that do not exceed 1 residential dwelling unit per 10 acres. This
land use designation is limited to areas not within the MUSA planning areas.
Rural Single Family (RSF)
This land use designation combines the previous Residential Estate and Rural
Single-Family categories into one designation to simplify intended land use
guidance. Development with this designation includes single-family detached
housing served by private on-site well and septic systems. Some areas with this
designation are allowed to have two-family dwellings based on zoning.
Golf Course Community (GC)
In recognition that a Golf Course on the land known as Tartan Park is a local and
regional amenity the City wishes to maintain, this specialized land use category
has been crafted to maximize the likelihood that a golf course can be maintained
on the property should a development proposal for the land come forward.
Low Density Residential (LDR)
Approximately 20% of the planned land uses in the South Planning Area are
guided or developed with low density residential land uses. This category includes
development of single-family detached housing and two-family attached dwellings
with a density of 2.5 to 4 units per acre (2.5 – 4 du/acre) and are planned to be
serviced by public sewer and water. This land use is limited to the part of the City
within the South Planning Area.
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Medium Density Residential (MDR)
Approximately 12% of the planned land uses in the South Planning Area are guided
for medium density residential uses. This category allows for a variety of housing types
including single-family detached, duplexes, townhomes, and small two- and three-story
apartment buildings and/or senior living centers. The Medium Density Residential
development is intended for a density of 4.5 to 8 units per acre (4.5 – 8 du/acre). This
land use is limited to the part of the City within the South Planning Area.
High Density Residential (HDR)
Approximately 4% of the planned land uses in the South Planning Area are
guided for high density residential uses. This land use designation guides land for
higher density residential development including townhomes, small apartment
buildings, and multi-family dwellings. Residential density ranges between 8.5
and 15 units per acre (8.5 – 15 du/acre) and provides opportunities for affordable
housing to be incorporated into future developments. This land use is limited to
the part of the City within the South Planning Area.
Mixed Use Commercial (MU-C)
Approximately 8% of the planned land uses in the South Planning Area are
guided as mixed-use commercial. This designation is a new land use designation
and identifies where a mix of commercial and residential uses may be integrated
to benefit from proximity and adjacencies to each other. Commercial uses in this
category include service and retail uses such as, but not limited to, restaurants,
shops, convenience stores, salons, studios and dry cleaners. Land with this
designation is assumed to develop with a minimum of 50% residential use with a
density ranging from 12 to 15 dwelling units per acre (12 – 15 du/acre).
Mixed Use - Business Park (MU-BP)
Approximately 8% of the planned land uses in the South Planning Area are
guided as mixed-use business park. This land use designation is new and
identifies where a mix of general business, business park, and residential uses may
benefit or be compatible due to proximity of uses. Business uses in this category
include office and service uses such as, but not limited to, offices and agencies,
warehouse/showroom, light manufacturing, and live/work development. Land
with this designation is assumed to develop with a minimum of 50% residential
use with a density ranging from 6 to 10 dwelling units per acre (6 – 10 du/acre).
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Village – Low Density Residential (V-LDR)
This land use designation is planned for areas within the Village Planning Area
and identifies land intended for single-family detached housing development
serviced by municipal sewer and water. Density ranges between 1.5 and 3
dwelling units per acres (1.5 – 3 du/acre). This land use already exists, or
is developing, in much of the outside edges of the Village Planning Area,
transitioning from the village center districts to the rural land use pattern not
designated within the MUSA areas.
Village – Medium Density Residential (V-MDR)
This land use designation identifies proposed land use within the Village
Planning Area guided for single-family detached, duplexes, and townhomes/
villa housing types. Residential density ranges between 3 and 5 dwelling units
per acre (3 – 5 du/acre). This land use allows for a greater variety in housing
stock and brings more people closer to living within easy access of Village
destinations and amenities.
Village – High Density Residential (V-HDR)
This land use designation is a new planned land use within the Village Planning
Area and is guided for apartment buildings and multi-family dwellings with
a density between 8 and 12 units per acre (8 – 12 du/acre). This land use
is intended to provide for an increase in types of housing stock, provide
opportunities for more affordable and lifecycle housing, and bring a higher
concentration of people living closer to Village destinations and amenities.
Village – Mixed Use (V-MU)
This land use designation is used in the center of the Village Planning Area
to identify an area where a mix of vertically integrated commercial/business
and residential uses provide development types that benefit from proximity
to each other. More residents in closer proximity to businesses bring greater
traffic to the businesses while these same businesses offer convenient and
necessary services and amenities to nearby residents. Together, the dynamics of
a mixed-use district can establish unique vitality, synergy of activity, and a true
community destination. Land with this designation is assumed to redevelop or
develop with a minimum of 50% residential use with a density ranging from 5
to 10 dwelling units per acre (5 – 10 du/acre).
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Limited Business (LB)
This land use designation identifies areas that are developed with commercial
users that were not served by urban services. Users in this designation
are generally less intense than would be permitted in the planned MUSA
designations.
Commercial (C)
The commercial land use includes areas that are used for retail business and
are primarily located within MUSA boundaries of the City. Small pockets of
commercial land can also be found where retail goods and services are located at
transportation intersections. This category excludes any residential use.
Business Park (BP)
This land use provides for a wide variety of professional businesses such as medical
and research facilities, offices and corporate headquarters. Uses specifically excluded
from existing business park areas include warehousing, manufacturing, distribution,
assembly and truck terminals. Retail sales of goods and services are allowable uses by
conditional use permit provided such uses are goods and services for the employees
of the permitted business use. This category excludes any residential use.
Urban Reserve (UR)
The Urban Reserve land use category identifies land that is currently
undeveloped or in a low-intensity residential or agricultural use but is located
within the current MUSA boundary. The land is identified to develop in a
similar pattern to other surrounding uses that are serviced with municipal sewer
and water; however, it is not intended to do so until after the 2040 planning
period. Land within the Urban Reserve is therefore not included in the sewered
developable land acreages for 2040 population and household calculations. It is
assumed to have a residential density no less than 1 unit per 10 acres (< 0.1 du/acre).
Institutional (INST)
The Institutional land use category identifies land that is used for schools,
religious institutions, City hall, municipal buildings, libraries, and other
institutional uses. This land use is found throughout the City.
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Public/Semi-Public (PSP)
The Public/Semi-Public land use category identifies land that is generally owned by
the City or other agency, whose primary purpose is to support adjacent developments
with stormwater management and other utilities. This land use may also include some
secondary uses such as public trails or small open spaces.
Closed Landfill Restricted (CL)
This land use designation identifies former landfills that are qualified to be under the
Closed Landfill Program of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The
purpose of this category is to limit uses of land within the closed landfill, both actively
filled and related lands, to minimal uses in order to protect the land from human
activity where response action systems are in place and, at the same time, are protective
of human health and safety.
Park & Open Space (Parks)
This land use identifies land used for public recreation and protected open space managed
for park uses. Most land within this designation is owned by Washington County or
the City of Lake Elmo, but also includes land owned by other public and semi-public
agencies.
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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The following table identifies the total land area within the community and comprehensively includes all
existing land uses, not guided for change, and planned land uses. The planned land use designations are
generally consistent with the 2030 Land Use Plan, with some exceptions as noted:
• The nomenclature regarding sewered residential uses has been changed from “Urban Low
Density” to “Low Density Residential, “Urban Medium Density” to “Medium Density
Residential” and so forth. This change did not in all cases alter the definition or density
ranges but was renamed to better describe the planned land uses.
• The density ranges for Medium Density Residential and High Density Residential
were shifted to align with the required affordable housing density requirements as
noted within the Metropolitan Council’s Housing Policy Plan.
• Two mixed use residential land uses were added to areas within the MUSA to allow for
a better integration of uses and more flexibility to respond to market demands. These
use designations require a minimum residential component as described within the
Future Land Use definitions.
Table 3-2. Future Land Use Plan and Total Acreage
Future Land Use Residential Density
(dwelling units/acre)Total Acres % of Total
Acres
Agricultural Preserve (AP)0.025 414.70 2.67%
Rural Area Development (RAD)0.1 4,805.93 30.99%
Rural Single Family (RSF)0.1-2.0 2553.12 16.46%
Golf Course Community (GC)1.5-2.49 436.04 2.81%
Low Density Residential (LDR)2.5 - 4 307.74 1.98%
Medium Density Residential (MDR)4.5 - 8 240.88 1.55%
High Density Residential (HDR)8 - 15 66.16 0.43%
Mixed Use – Commercial (MU-C)12 - 15 137.39 0.89%
Mixed Use - Business Park (MU-BP)6 - 10 146.25 0.94%
Village – Low Density Residential (V-LDR)1.5 - 3 201.78 1.30%
Village – Medium Density Residential (V-MDR)3 - 5 108.96 0.70%
Village – High Density Residential (V-HDR)8 - 12 31.07 0.20%
Village – Mixed Use (V-MU)5 - 10 76.94 0.50%
Urban Reserve (UR)0.1 467.04 3.01%
Commercial (C)NA 158.58 1.02%
Business Park (BP)NA 179.01 1.15%
Institutional (INST)NA 301.27 1.94%
Closed Landfill NA 67.53 0.44%
Public/Semi-Public (PSP)NA 195.63 1.26%
Park/Open Space (POS)NA 2615.72 16.87%
Open Water NA 1355.29 8.74%
Right of Way (ROW)NA 594.18 3.83%
Total 15,506.97 100.00%
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Map 3-3. Future Land Use Map
Elmo
Jane
Olson
Eagle Point
DeMontreville
Sunfish
Horseshoe
Downs
Rose
Goose
Clear
Goetschel
Kramer
Armstrong
Unnamed
Legion Pond
Friedrich Pond
H.J. Brown Pond
Goose
Deer Pond
Armstrong
Crombie Pond
Klawitter Pond
Berschen's Pond
Hedge's Pond
Dirk's Pond
Beutel's Pond
FLegend
LB
V-MU
V-LDR
V-MDR
V-HDR
LDR
MDR
HDR
MU-BP
MU-C
AP
RAD
RSF
RSFS
GC
C
BP
Urban Reserve
Institutional
Closed Landfill
ROW
PSP
Park
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Planned Growth Areas
Growth within Lake Elmo is expected to primarily occur
in areas designated within the MUSA, consistent with the
Metropolitan Council’s 2015 System Statement Projections.
The City geographically describes their primary growth
areas the South Planning Area and the Village Planning
Area. Within both of these MUSA boundaries, there is
adequate land to serve the projected population, households
and employment through 2040. As shown on Map 3-4
and Map 3-5, the areas planned for growth and change in
this planning period are identified. Corresponding Table
3-3. Net Developable Acreage of Residential Land Uses
provides the calculated density, and expected households, based on the FLU in each of
these areas. In addition to the anticipated growth in the areas served within the MUSA,
the City also anticipates some growth within the Rural Residential areas consistent with
previous land use plan designations and as projected within the 2015 System Statement.
Further description regarding the development of the FLU and the growth strategy are
provided within Chapter 4: Balanced Development & Growth.
Map 3-4. Future Land Use – South Planning Area Planned Growth
F
Draft 2040 Future Land Use Plan - 2.12.2018
Urban Reserve
V-UHD
V-MXD
V-ULD
V-UMD
MXD-BP
MXD-UHD
ULD
UMD
UHD
RAD
RE
RSF
RSFS
GC
C
LB
Institutional
BP
Park/OS
ROW
PSP
MUSA2040_Revised
areas planned for development - south
Elmo
Jane
Olson
Eagle Point
DeMontreville
Sunfish
Horseshoe
Downs
Rose
Goose
Clear
Goetschel
Kramer
Armstrong
Unnamed
Legion Pond
Friedrich Pond
H.J. Brown Pond
Goose
Deer Pond
Armstrong
Crombie Pond
Klawitter Pond
Berschen's Pond
Hedge's Pond
Dirk's Pond
Beutel's Pond
FLegend
LB
V-MU
V-LDR
V-MDR
V-HDR
LDR
MDR
HDR
MU-BP
MU-C
AP
RAD
RSF
RSFS
GC
C
BP
Urban Reserve
Institutional
Closed Landfill
ROW
PSP
Park
Elmo
Jane
Olson
Eagle Point
DeMontreville
Sunfish
Horseshoe
Downs
Rose
Goose
Clear
Goetschel
Kramer
Armstrong
Unnamed
Legion Pond
Friedrich Pond
H.J. Brown Pond
Goose
Deer Pond
Armstrong
Crombie Pond
Klawitter Pond
Berschen's Pond
Hedge's Pond
Dirk's Pond
Beutel's Pond
FLegend
LB
V-MU
V-LDR
V-MDR
V-HDR
LDR
MDR
HDR
MU-BP
MU-C
AP
RAD
RSF
RSFS
GC
C
BP
Urban Reserve
Institutional
Closed Landfill
ROW
PSP
Park
LU Goal #3. Continue to
educate residents, developers,
and stakeholders about the
guided land uses and where
sewered and non-sewered
development is guided.
- Chapter 1: Vision, Goals & Strategies
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Map 3-5. Future Land Use –Village Planning Area Planned Growth
Elmo
Jane
Olson
Eagle Point
DeMontreville
Sunfish
Horseshoe
Downs
Rose
Goose
Clear
Goetschel
Kramer
Armstrong
Unnamed
Legion Pond
Friedrich Pond
H.J. Brown Pond
Goose
Deer Pond
Armstrong
Crombie Pond
Klawitter Pond
Berschen's Pond
Hedge's Pond
Dirk's Pond
Beutel's Pond
FLegend
LB
V-MU
V-LDR
V-MDR
V-HDR
LDR
MDR
HDR
MU-BP
MU-C
AP
RAD
RSF
RSFS
GC
C
BP
Urban Reserve
Institutional
Closed Landfill
ROW
PSP
Park
Elmo
Jane
Olson
Eagle Point
DeMontreville
Sunfish
Horseshoe
Downs
Rose
Goose
Clear
Goetschel
Kramer
Armstrong
Unnamed
Legion Pond
Friedrich Pond
H.J. Brown Pond
Goose
Deer Pond
Armstrong
Crombie Pond
Klawitter Pond
Berschen's Pond
Hedge's Pond
Dirk's Pond
Beutel's Pond
FLegend
LB
V-MU
V-LDR
V-MDR
V-HDR
LDR
MDR
HDR
MU-BP
MU-C
AP
RAD
RSF
RSFS
GC
C
BP
Urban Reserve
Institutional
Closed Landfill
ROW
PSP
Park
F
Draft 2040 Future Land Use Plan - 2.12.2018
Urban Reserve
V-UHD
V-MXD
V-ULD
V-UMD
MXD-BP
MXD-UHD
ULD
UMD
UHD
RAD
RE
RSF
RSFS
GC
C
LB
Institutional
BP
Park/OS
ROW
PSP
MUSA2040_Revised
areas planned for development - Village
Development Areas
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Table 3-3. Net Developable Acreage of Residential Land Uses
Future Land Use Residential Density
(dwelling units/acre)Total Acres Households
Low Density Residential (LDR)2.5 - 4 70.02 175
Medium Density Residential (MDR)4.5 - 8 63.41 285
High Density Residential (HDR)8 - 15 66.16 529
Mixed Use – Commercial (MU-C)*12 - 15 34.97 419
Mixed Use - Business Park (MU-B)*6 - 10 31.13 186
Village – Low Density Residential (V-LDR)1.5 - 3 8.41 13
Village – Medium Density Residential (V-MDR)3 - 5 33.09 99
Village – High Density Residential (V-HDR)8 - 12 29.57 236
Village – Mixed Use (V-MU)*5 - 10 9.84 49
Total 2020-2040 Residential 412.71 1,994
Net Density 2020-2040 4.8 du/acre
Residential Plats 2010 - 2020 1,107.1 2,444
Total Sewered Households 2010-2040 1,519.81 4,438
Total Net Density 2010-2040 3.05 du/acre
*Only residential acreage included/calculated in table. Land Use designation assumption
that a minimum of 50% of total acreage is developed with residential use.
Density in Sewered Areas by 2040
Consistent with the Metropolitan Council’s policies, the density calculation performed
based on Table 3-3. Net Developable Acreage of Planned Residential Land Uses will
result in an average net density of approximately 3.0 dwelling units per acre. As
required, the household calculation in Table 3-3 was performed based on the minimum
units allowable per the density range.
As shown on Map 3-4 and Map 3-5, there are three land use designations at sufficient
densities to meet the City’s allocation of affordable housing per the Metropolitan
Council System Statement. Approximately 166 acres are collectively guided for these
three designations between 2021 and 2030, which meets the required allocation in this
planning period. (Further detail regarding affordable housing can be found in Chapter
5: Housing).
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Employment Locations
Existing and planned employment locations are generally located within the Village
Planning Area and South Planning Area. Land uses served by MUSA, or planned for
extension of services, will continue to be the primary locations for employment through
the forecasted planning period. There are some existing limited business land uses
located outside of MUSA designations that are anticipated to remain in operations
through this planning period, but are not accounted for in Table 3-4 because they are
existing, and no intensification of the land use is projected in these areas.
To determine the intensity of the commercial and business park uses in the guided
FLU, the maximum impervious surface coverage was estimated based on information
contained in the City’s Zoning Ordinance. The coverage calculation was converted
to square feet and the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services Sewer Area
Charge (SAC) 2017 Manual was used to determine allocated SAC units based on the
designation and potential users.
These land uses are identified on Map 3-3: Future Land Use Plan, Map 3-4: Future Land Use
Plan – South Planning Area and Map 3-5: Future Land Use Plan – Village Planning Area.
Table 3-4. Employment Locations and Intensity (Planned for Development)
Growth Area Land Use Planned
Acres
Intensity
(Impervious)
Estimated
Acres
(Square Feet)
SAC
South
Planning Area Commercial 120 35%42
(1,829,000)610
Business Parkb 75 50%37.5
(1,633,500)233
Mixed Use - Commerciala 69.95 35%24.48
(1,066,348)355
Mixed Use - Business Parkab 62.27 50%31.14
(1,356,240)194
Village
Planning Area Commercial 11.02 35%3.86
(168,010)56
Mixed Use - Villagea 9.54 50%4.77
(207,781)69
Total SAC/Emp.1,517
aOnly commercial/business component is included in acreage. Approximately 50% of total land use designation used
for calculation per land use definition.
bBusiness Park Designations calculation assumes office/manufacturing/warehousing mix of general business users.
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Airport Impact
The Lake Elmo Regional Airport is located adjacent to the City’s eastern boundary
in West Lakeland Township. The airport is east of Manning Avenue and between the
railroad and 30th Street N. Parts of the airport safety zone and noise impact areas
impact a portion of the Village Planning Area in Lake Elmo. A new low density single-
family detached residential neighborhood is partially developed with subsequent phases
anticipated within this planning period. No development is allowed within the Runway
Protection Zone (RPZ). All land designated within the RPZ are designated as Public/
Semi-Public uses and are included within the City’s Greenway Overlay which restrict
any future development of land within this designation. The FLU is consistent with
allowed land uses within the safety zones for the Lake Elmo Regional Airport and
reflects this restriction. The City will continue to work with the Metropolitan Airports
Commission and MnDOT Aeronautics Division to update airport zoning regulations
that address noise and safety concerns within these zones as required.
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Map 3-6. Airport Safety and Runway Protection
F21D_ULT_SSZB
21D_ULT_SSZA
21D_ULT_RPZ
21D_EX_SSZB
21D_EX_SSZA
Legend
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Phasing and Staged Growth
The majority of the City’s growth in households and employment is anticipated to occur
within the designated MUSA boundaries; however, there will be some continued development
in the rural residential areas of the community through 2040 as shown in the following table.
Since the 2030 Planning period, the City’s projected population and households through 2040
was decreased by approximately 25%. As a result, the all of the land area within City’s MUSA
area to accommodate projected growth in the 2015 System Statement is not needed. While
the City cannot change the designated MUSA, it has created a new Urban Reserve land use
designation that is not planned for urban services during this planning period.
Table 3-5. Future Land Use Forecast Acreage per Decade (TO BE FILLED IN AFTER
ENGINEER INPUT ON STAGING MAP)
Future Land Use
Residential
Density
(dwelling units/
acre)
2020 Acres (%)2030 Acres (%)2040 Acres (%)
Agricultural Preserve (AP)0.025 414.70 (2.67%)414.70 (2.67%)414.70 (2.67%)
Rural Area Development (RAD)0.1 4,805.93 (30.99%)4,805.93 (30.99%)4,805.93 (30.99%)
Rural Single Family (RSF)0.5 - 2 1,740.01 (11.22%)1,740.01 (11.22%)1,740.01 (11.22%)
Low Density Residential (LDR)2.5 - 4
Medium Density Residential (MDR)4.5 - 8
High Density Residential (HDR)8 - 15
Mixed Use - Commercial (MU-C)12 - 15
Mixed Use - Business Park (MU-BP)6 - 10
Village – Low Density Residential
(V-LDR)1.5 - 3
Village – Medium Density Residential
(V-MDR)3 - 5
Village – High Density Residential
(V-HDR)8 -12
Village – Mixed Use (V-MU)5 - 10
Urban Reserve (UR)0.1 467.04 (3.01%)467.04 (3.01%)467.04 (3.01%)
Commercial (C)NA
Business Park (BP)NA
Institutional (INST)NA 301.27 (1.94%)301.27 (1.94%)301.27 (1.94%)
Public/Semi-Public (PSP)NA
Park & Open Space (POS)NA
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
29
F
Draft 2040 Future Land Use Plan
Urban Reserve
V-UHD
V-MXD
V-ULD
V-UMD
MXD-BP
MXD-UHD
ULD
UMD
UHD
RAD
RE
RSF
RSFS
GC
C
LB
Institutional
BP
Park/OS
ROW
PSP
MUSA2040_Revised
2020 -
2030
2020
2020
S
O
U
T
H
M
U
S
A
SO
U
T
H
M
U
S
A
VI
L
L
A
G
E
MUSA
2020
existing
existing
existing
2030-2040
post-2040 2030-2040
2020 -
2030
post-2040
post-2040
existing
2020
e
x
i
s
t
i
n
g
post-2040
existing
existing
Map 3-7. MUSA Growth & Phasing Plan
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ADDITIONAL OBJECTIVES OF FUTURE LAND USES
The City’s FLU acknowledges and plans for continued household and employment growth
through 2040, but also includes preservation and continued support of its rural residential
landscape and robust parks and open space system. The City of Lake Elmo has always
been identified as an exceptional place to live because of its robust parks system, protected
high-quality natural resources, and proximity to major employment, heallthcare and retail
centers. Even though the community is growing, and in some cases transitioning from a
primarily rural residential community, there is a desire and an opportunity to weave the
most important elements and characteristics into changing areas of the community to ensure
that the identity and character of the community continues for generations to come.
Equally important to the planned land uses, densities and projections is the
commitment to maintain open spaces, natural resources and parks and to promote
opportunities to provide healthy, vibrant, resilient neighborhoods.
The following sections should be used as an extension to the Future Land Use Plan
and should be incorporated or acknowledged in growth areas and in areas planned for
protection of existing uses. There is always an opportunity to do better, and the following
themes help support the future direction of the City’s land uses and decision-making.
Promoting Health with Land Use
As part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update
process, the City obtained a grant from Washington
County Health Services through the State Health
and Improvement Program (SHIP) to incorporate
living healthy principles into this comprehensive
plan. There are many ways that the principles
of healthy neighborhoods, communities and
environments can be incorporated into existing and
future land uses. The following summary identifies
some of the ways in which health was considered,
and incorporated, into the Future Land Use Plan.
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Mixed-Use Land Use Designations to Promote Health
The introduction of land uses that will promote a more compact, walkable, development
pattern was purposefully integrated throughout the growth areas as identified in
previous sections of this chapter. In addition to creating new land use designations, the
City discussed opportunities to better connect existing neighborhoods though bikeways,
trails and other pedestrian routes to support active residents. This discussion included
how public and private trail connections may be used to achieve these objectives, and
the City acknowledge the need to better communicate and sign public trails and routes
so users are comfortable and informed using the system.
In addition to neighborhood pattern, the new mixed-use designations will permit the
incorporation of uses such as restaurants, markets, farmers markets, and other events
that can be designed to support an active lifestyle for the City’s residents, employees
and employers. With the growing popularity of farm-to-table dining and experiences
that focus on healthy living, Lake Elmo is well-positioned to capitalize on trends that
connect its rich rural and agricultural resources with health-conscious consumers seeking
fresh high-quality foods and products. As the community grows and new households are
added, it will be important for the City to ensure grocery and fresh foods are sold and
provided at locations nearby higher concentrations of residents.
Ensuring “Uses” that Support Health are Permitted and Accessible
Closely related to the introduction of more compact development patterns, is the need
to provide accessible options to purchase healthy and fresh foods and products. This can
be accomplished through ensuring that uses that support that objective are permitted
within the City’s land use designations and the zoning code. Connection and ease of access
are essential components to this objective, so pedestrian, bikeways and other routes to
locations with fresh products is important to consider as the City develops and evolves.
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Providing an Accessible Greenway Network
The City is committed to preservation of its
existing natural resource and open space network.
In addition to the existing network, the City
plans to expand the network as growth areas are
developed. Part of this planning process included
discussion and recommendations regarding
better park, trail and open space connections
for residents in existing neighborhoods and in
new growing neighborhoods. Natural resource
protection, identification, preservation and
development creates opportunities to create a
network of greenways and trails for residents
to utilize for recreation, connection with nature, and connection between various
neighborhoods and destinations in and around Lake Elmo. Trail development is an
important way to promote health and activity in the community. The City’s Future
Land Use Plan should be implemented to be consistent with Chapter X : Parks, Trails &
Open Space that identifies key trail, natural resource and open space considerations as
development occurs within the City’s growth areas.
Parks, Open Space and Natural Resources Integration
Nearly 18% of the City’s land acreage is publicly protected as Park or Open Space,
and nearly XX% of private lands area protected with a conservation easement. Natural
resources, parks, and open spaces protection and enhancement is one of the City’s
character defining elements that makes the community a special place to live, work
and recreate. The City’s expansive natural resources, including woodland, meadow,
lakes and wetlands, and rural scenic amenities are sprinkled throughout the heart of
the community and is a valued asset for all residents. The presence of high quality
natural resources is important to the lasting effort of balanced development, enduring
biodiversity, and opportunity for recreation and connection for area residents. The effort
to preserve and enhance these features as an asset for the community and region is a
primary objective and specifically stated in several Goals and Strategies within Chapter
1: Vision, Goals & Strategies.
LU Goal #2. Enhance Lake
Elmo’s expansive network
of trails, open spaces,
and natural resources as
amenities in developing areas
of the community.
- Chapter 1: Vision, Goals & Strategies
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Decision-making related to incorporation of greenways, natural resources, parks
and trails associated within this Future Land Use Plan should be consistent with the
information found in Chapter 6: Parks, Trails & Open Space.
Access & Transportation
A key component of implementing the Future Land Use Plan is to plan for appropriate
access and consider diverse modes of transportation. It is likely that as the growth areas
change and develop a more diverse demographic will move to the community and their
transportation demands may include alternate modes such as bikeways, pedestrian ways
and the desire for transit.
Incorporated on Map 3-3: Future Land Use Plan are the conceptual main thoroughfares
through the growth areas that are planned for within the Chapter X : Transportation.
Identification of the east-west roadway connection in the South MUSA planning
boundary on the Future Land Use Plan is deliberate and was used to guide compatible
and appropriate land uses. It is the intent of the Future Land Use Plan that development
along the east-west corridor would support and plan for adequate right-of-way at time
of development that would include a multi-use trail that would promote mode choice
and accessibility to adjacent neighborhoods. Likewise, a new roadway connection in the
Village MUSA planning boundary is identified and the land use plan was developed to
encourage higher-densities near the roadway to improve access. More detail regarding
new roadways, and the existing transportation, transit, and bikeways system can be
found in Chapter 7: Transportation.
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Supporting Resiliency
The purpose of creating a Future Land Use Plan that provides a diverse land use
pattern is to allow for the City to adapt and change as needed through this planning
period. Better integration of land uses allows for the community to be thoughtful about
innovation as the environment changes and new technologies are developed, and creates
opportunities to adapt and be responsive. The idea of resiliency is woven throughout
this plan, and it is the intent of the City that it be used as part of the decision-making
process and allows for improvements in neighborhood and development design as the
community evolves and changes through 2040.
Solar Access
To be filled in with information from City Staff.
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Map 3-8: Gross Solar Potential
Lake
Elmo
STIL
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LAKE JANE TRL N
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Gross Solar Potential
(Watt-hours per Year)
High : 1276008
Low : 900001
Solar Potential under 900,000 watt-hours per year
County Boundaries
City and Township Boundaries
Wetlands and Open Water Features
Gross Solar Potential
Source: University of Minnesota U-Spatial Statewide Solar Raster.
ANOKA
DAKOTA
HENNEPIN RAMSEY
SCOTT
WASHINGTON
CARVER
Extent of Main Map
0 1 2 3 40.5
Miles
12/20/2016
City of Lake Elmo, Washington County
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City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
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SPECIAL RESOURCE PROTECTION
A consideration when developing the Future Land Use Plan was to inventory special or
unique resources in the community, and to allow these resources (where applicable) to
help guide where and when development would occur.
Historical Resources
There are no State or Locally registered historical districts or structures in the Lake
Elmo. However, the City strongly supports the preservation of the “Old Village” Main
Street, where the village first developed. During the 2030 Planning period, the City’s
developed a set of design guidelines will help protect existing buildings and ensure new
construction integrates well with the existing character and building form of the district.
During this Plan development process the City studied the Old Village area, and
concluded that it would benefit from further refinement based on areas contained within
the previous Old Village boundary. The result, is that this Plan creates three distinct
Districts that describe the use, activities and desired plans based on location within the
City’s core village area. A full description of the Districts, and how they will shape the core
of the village are provided in Chapter 4: Balanced Development & Growth.
LU Goal #4. Create strong
and vibrant Districts in the
Village Planning Area that
becomes a destination for all
residents of the community.
LU Goal #5. Identify and
Explore opportunities to
improve the streetscape in the
Old Village District, Elmo
Station District and Civic
Center District to create a more
walkable environment.
LU Goal #6. Maintain and
Strengthen the small-town
charm of the Old Village
District.
- Chapter 1: Vision, Goals & Strategies
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F
Draft 2040 Future Land Use Plan - 2.12.2018District Plan - NEED TO CREATE - Old Village, Civic, Elmo Station
Vi
l
l
a
g
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P
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A
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Civic District
Old Village
District
Elmo Station
District
Vi
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A
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Elmo
Jane
Olson
Eagle Point
DeMontreville
Sunfish
Horseshoe
Downs
Rose
Goose
Clear
Goetschel
Kramer
Armstrong
Unnamed
Legion Pond
Friedrich Pond
H.J. Brown Pond
Goose
Deer Pond
Armstrong
Crombie Pond
Klawitter Pond
Berschen's Pond
Hedge's Pond
Dirk's Pond
Beutel's Pond
FLegend
LB
V-MU
V-LDR
V-MDR
V-HDR
LDR
MDR
HDR
MU-BP
MU-C
AP
RAD
RSF
RSFS
GC
C
BP
Urban Reserve
Institutional
Closed Landfill
ROW
PSP
Park
MAP 3-9: District Boundaries in Village Planning Area
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Aggregate Resources
Per the Metropolitan Council’s 1997 Aggregate Resources information,
there are approximately 324 acres of land identified in the City has having
aggregate resource value. Today, there are two active aggregate sites, one
located in the northwestern quadrant of the community, which is identified
on the 1997 Aggregate Resource Inventory. The second active site is located
in the South MUSA boundary, near the Keats intersection with 10th Street
North. Adjacent to this site, and designated within the City’s Urban Reserve
land use, is additional land identified within the 1997 Aggregate Resource
map. The existing active sites have been in operation for several decades,
and it is the City’s understanding that these sites are nearing their useful life
and may be exhausted in this planning period. Beyond the active sites, the
1997 Aggregate Resource map identified areas within exiting neighborhoods
that are not likely to experience any demand or opportunity for extraction.
As aggregate resources are depleted, the land will transition into suburban-
style development, consistent with the surrounding district. As mentioned,
some of the land identified with potential for aggregate resource extraction
that has not been mined, is designated within the City’s Urban Reserve
that guides development post-2040. Future plans will work to address these
reserve areas further.
Agricultural Preserve
The City’s agrarian and agricultural past continues to be valued by the
City, and landowners and homeowners that express interest in preserving
agricultural land through the Agricultural Preserve program will be
supported by the City. Currently, there are approximately 414-acres of
land protected by an Agricultural Preserve covenant per the Metropolitan
Council’s records, and those properties have been identified and guided
appropriately on the Existing and Future Land Use Plan contained within
this chapter.
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Map 3-10. Aggregate Resource Locations
F
Aggregate Resources
Aggregate Resources 1997
Revised 2040 MUSA