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Mounds View Planning Commission June 20, 2001 Regular Meeting Page 10 ________________________________________________________________________ Alice Wetterling of 2716 Sherwood Road indicated she is concerned that the driveway is a safety hazard as Mounds View has lots of kids on bikes, roller blades and scooters who will not be aware of the driveway onto Sherwood. She then noted that she has seen two close call car accidents since the driveway was put in. Ms. Osterlund indicated she was unaware of any alleged close call accidents so she is not sure what Ms. Wetterling is referring to. She then indicated that the previous owner had lived in the house for 30 years and never had an issue with the driveway but noted that traffic was a lot different 30 years ago as compared to today. Mr. Osterlund indicated that neither of the gentlemen who commented have lived on Red Oak Drive and have not tried to back out of his driveway. He noted there is plenty of sight line to see kids coming. He noted that he had spoken to the neighbors across the street and they have said they have never noticed him tearing out of the driveway. He further indicated that he drives very cautiously and feels that as a future parent it is his job to look out for other peoples’ kids on the streets as he expects other residents will one day do for him. He also commented that the driveway is Class 5 which would be displaced if he were to tear out of the driveway which ends up costing him money to repair or replace. Chair Stevenson asked if the property owners had considered an area to back up where the second driveway was put. Mr. Osterlund indicated he had considered a back up lane but noted there is a tree in the way which he would really need to maneuver his truck around to get into position. Chair Stevenson asked Mr. Osterlund if he had driven out of his driveway forward before. Mr. Osterlund indicated that he had but not from the angle Chair Stevenson had suggested. Commissioner Scotch asked how much property there is between Red Oak Drive and the property line. Commissioner Kaden questioned whether the contractor had suggested that the property owner might need a permit or that there might be setbacks to be considered. Commissioner Zwirn asked if the contractor was licensed, bonded and insured. Mr. Osterlund indicated he was not sure whether the contractor was licensed as he had not checked it out. He then indicated the contractor did not tell him a permit may be required. Commissioner Kaden indicated that, in most cases, the contractor will offer to get the permit as part of the quote. Chair Stevenson asked the Commission if they felt the hardship requirements have been met.