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Mounds View Planning Commission October 20, 2004 <br />Regular Meeting Page 3 <br />________________________________________________________________________ <br /> <br />7. Consideration of Variance Request for Reduced Front Setback for Parking Area <br />and a Variance from the Minimum Lot Size Requirement for a Proposed <br />Automobile Sales Lot at 2320 Highway 10 and 5260 O’Connell Drive <br /> <br />Planner Prososki reviewed the request with the Commission and explained that Staff feels that <br />the variance for the parking is supportable but would recommend denial of both variances if the <br />Commission is not able to determine hardship for the variance from the minimum lot size. She <br />further commented that Staff reviewed the request and is not able to find supportable hardship <br />for allowing the variance from the minimum lot size. <br /> <br />Planner Prososki indicated that Staff was contacted by many residents on this request and most <br />were opposed to the proposal. She then said that some were not opposed but were concerned <br />that the residential area be taken into consideration. She further commented that the biggest <br />concern for Staff is it does not meet the lot minimum and Staff does not feel that the hardship <br />criteria has been met and recommends denial. <br /> <br />Chair Stevenson opened the public hearing at 7:13 p.m. <br /> <br />Chair Stevenson asked the developer to explain how this is not the typical used car lot. <br /> <br />Gary Nordness, representing the applicant, indicated he has been working with CU Companies <br />on several projects in New Brighton. He then said that CU is owned by 64 credit unions and, <br />before anything is done they are looking into the variances and how to work with the neighbors <br />to ensure that they will not be negatively impacted by this proposal. <br /> <br />Mr. Nordness indicated this is different from a typical car lot with operational hours from 10:00 <br />a.m. to 9:00 p.m. during weekdays and closed by 6:00 p.m. on weekends. He then said that after <br />hours lighting would be below normal levels with downcast lighting similar to an office building <br />rather than that of a dealership. <br /> <br />Mr. Nordness indicated they do not, other than detailing, intend to do any service nor have an <br />indoor show floor at the location. He then said that there would be a minimal amount of pre- <br />owned newer model cars and new cars. <br /> <br />Mr. Nordness explained that they would fence or screen from O’Connell Drive and move the site <br />forward to lessen the impact to the neighborhood. He then said that the building will be brick <br />and stone and they were looking at a monument sign for the property and a sign on the face of <br />building. <br /> <br />Mr. Nordness indicated that CU is proud of what they are doing through its credit members for <br />keeping a clean look and it will be shielded on two sides and well landscaped. He then said that <br />they intend to meet with and incorporate as many changes into the plan to accommodate the <br />neighbors as is possible. <br /> <br />Chair Stevenson asked how many cars would be on the lot at any one time.