10-17-2001 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mounds View Planning Commission October 17, 2001 Regular Meeting Page 10 ________________________________________________________________________ information with the authority for administrative approval should the required documentation be received. Commissioner Miller questioned whether the matter should be held pending Rice Creek Watershed District’s final determination on the matter. Community Development Director Ericson indicated that whenever the City processes a Wetland Alteration Permit one of the stipulations is that the applicant have the approval of Rice Creek Watershed District. He then said the Commission could wait on the matter but suggested that the approval of the variance would be contingent upon receiving the Rice Creek Watershed District permit. Chair Stevenson indicated he did not want to deny a builder the right to build on property that he owns but said he feels the Commission needs to follow the requirements of the Code as they were put into place to protect the wetlands. He then indicated the effect of having property less than 125 feet wide could be very significant to the neighborhood. He further indicated that he is not convinced that the land would sustain homes but said that is for the developer to determine. Commissioner Miller agreed with Chair Stevenson. Commissioner Johnson indicated that the developer had changed his plans from 14 lots down to 11 lots and has done a lot for the community. He then indicated that, if Rice Creek Watershed District does not see a problem with the development, he could support granting the variance. Commissioner Zwirn indicated he had used a Franklin table to list positives and negatives and said that he had many negatives and not many positives. He then commented that Mr. Harstad had asked for fairness and said that he feels it would not be fair to the existing neighborhood to significantly alter the wetland because he feels it would have a negative impact on surrounding properties. Commissioner Scotch stated she has seen some of Mr. Harstad’s work in other developments and said he does nice developments. She commented that there is so much development going on so quickly that has hindered the community which is why she is torn on a decision on the matter. She then stated she would lean toward granting the variance. Commissioner Miller indicated she did not feel the applicant has met the criteria for granting the variance. Chair Stevenson indicated it appeared that the Commission was three to two against granting the variance. Community Development Director Ericson indicated Staff would draft a resolution and have it on the November 7, 2001 agenda. He then indicated that one Commissioner was not in attendance at the meeting and said he would provide a resolution for approval and for denial for consideration.