06-02-1999 PC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mounds View Planning Commission June 2, 1999 • Regular Meeting Page 4 uninterrupted straight lines. The front elevation shows four windows, four garage doors and four entryways. The side elevations do not show any windows, while rear elevation shows three windows per unit. Ericson reviewed the site plan and explained what each area represents. He explained that the site is flat with little, if any, elevation change from one end to the other. He stated that staff has reviewed a preliminary drainage plan for the four-plex, and has found it would be sufficient if there were no other mitigating factors. He stated that there are three four-plexes to the north and an apartment complex to the west of the subject property, which have extensive run-off flowing onto the applicant's property. He stated that this run-off causes pooling and accumulation of storm water on the applicant's property. Ericson stated that one option to the drainage issue would be that with minor grading, the property could utilize the catch basin in County Road I, and a right-of-way could be established to carry run-off into the City storm sewer. He stated that the applicant has no easement for the storm sewer, and suggested that a five foot easement be granted to facilitate the storm water run-off. Ericson stated that there has been much discussion between the applicant and the adjacent property owner in an effort to resolve the drainage issues, and another option might be that the Woodlawn Terrace Apartment complex could divert their run-off from the applicant's 111 property. He stated that because many options do exist, staff feels confident that an acceptable solution will be achieved. Ericson stated that, at this time, the applicant has proposed nothing more than sod and decorative rock for landscaping purposes. He stated that staff recommends that specific plantings be shown on the final site plan in a quantity and quality that would be acceptable to both the applicant and the City. Ericson stated that staff had suggested some simple changes which could be utilized to improve the exterior appearance of the development. First, he suggested that the entryways be moved so that they are at ground level and that they be protected by some type of overhang. Second, there should be an exterior light between each entryway and garage for safety and security purposes. He stated that no exterior lighting is shown in the site plan at this time. Third, with the lowered entryway, there would be sufficient room for a second window for each unit, perhaps in the foyer area. Last, the entryways for the end units could be moved so that access is taken from the sides of the building rather than the front. Ericson stated that these changes, and any others proposed by the Planning Commission, should be incorporated into the site plans for final approval by the City Council. Ericson stated that there were considerations to be taken in regard to the parking situation. He stated that the third unit to the north could not park in front of the garage as there was not enough room. He stated that the applicant could possibly provide on-site parking elsewhere, and though this was not a desirable situation, it could be acceptable if the tenants were made aware of this restriction. Secondly, he stated, there does not appear to be sufficient area for backing out of the complex. He stated that all four units would have to exit the property in reverse, which could be a safety concern. • He stated that these issues would be addressed and staff believed there were means to resolve them.