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Mounds View Planning Commission November 3, 1999 Regular Meeting Page 8 • Planning Associate Ericson stated a 40-foot curb cut would be as wide as many of the City streets, and this wide a curb cut might not be necessary. He explained that it was unlikely that multiple vehicles would enter and exit at the same time. He added that some of the higher and medium density town homes are closer to the street, however, those on Knollwood Drive and Silver Lake Road are approximately 45 feet from the street, and the driveways could accommodate almost 3 vehicles. Commissioner Hegland inquired if each half of the twin home units was individually owned, separate pieces of property, with a zero lot line. Planning Associate Ericson stated this was correct. Commissioner Hegland pointed out they should have the same opportunity for the driveway width as single family dwellings. He commented this makes the property more saleable. He added by definition, these are zero lot line properties, however, they are still separate entities, owned by two different parties. Commissioner Kaden stated he was in favor of the 32-foot curb cut. He indicated he agreed with staff, in that 40 feet was an excessive amount of pavement. He noted some people might desire to purchase this type of property, however, he would personally rather purchase a home with a lesser amount of pavement. He added, from a safety standpoint, 16 feet per side would be sufficiently wide. Commissioner Stevenson pointed out that the purpose of allowing the 32-foot curb cut in R-2, R-3 and R-4 uses was for one single property, and not necessarily for two adjoined properties. He stated 111 he did not see how the issue of twin homes was addressed in this statement. Chair Peterson stated there should be a distinction made between the two types of R-2 usage, the zero lot line situations, and the older style duplexes. Commissioner Stevenson agreed. He added that the issue of zero lot lines, with two driveways together, should be specifically addressed. Planning Associate Ericson advised that zero lot line subdivisions are addressed in the Code, and have their own set of requirements and restrictions. He stated he was uncertain if there was anything specifically relating to driveway widths or curb cuts, however, there may be, and if the requirements are changed,this should also be indicated in the R-2 section of the Zoning Code. He explained there is an entire section pertaining to zero lot line subdivisions, and deed restrictions and covenants that are required to be put in place with the property. He advised this would be the appropriate place to address this issue, rather than attempting to address it in the ordinance. Commissioner Stevenson stated that at the widest,these properties are 50 feet, and inquired why they were considering a 32-foot curb cut for a single property. Planning Associate Ericson explained there might be a twin home that is not zero lot line subdivided, and is one parcel. Commissioner Stevenson commented he was not aware of any apartment buildings in the R-3 or R-4 district that have a 32-foot curb cut. Planning Associate Ericson stated, at present, the widest curb cut allowed in these districts is 30 feet.