04-05-2000 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View Planning Commission April 5, 2000 Regular Meeting Page 5 Planning Associate Ericson stated in staff’s perspective, there are few adverse effects presented by this proposal. He indicated staff has not received any complaints in recent history with regard to the operation of the Church, and the proposed addition would benefit both the congregation and the community. He advised that the expansion would match the architecture and style of the existing building and should prove to be a good addition to the community. He stated that if there are no other issues with regard to this request, staff recommends that the Planning Commission direct staff to draft a resolution of approval for action at the next meeting. Planning Associate Ericson indicated that the only matter that remains unresolved at this point is the stormwater issue, as determined by the Rice Creek Watershed District, and this might not be resolved for another month. He explained that the Watershed District would not issue a Wetland Buffer Permit until the Church has retained a contractor, and final plans are submitted. The applicant will not retain a contractor until it obtains City approval. He stated that in the interim, he believed Rice Creek Watershed District would provide the City with some verbal indication regarding whether or not the plans would satisfy their requirements. He indicated staff feels the proposal is in order, and could be recommended on for Council review. Chairperson Peterson opened the floor for public comment. David Rudnik, 7191 Knollwood Drive inquired if a copy of the revised landscape plan was available for public inspection. Planning Associate Ericson provided Mr. Rudnik with a copy of the landscape plan. Mr. Rudnik indicated that in his letter, he had brought forward an issue pertaining to traffic in the area. He explained that some of the parishioners travel up from the south, on County Road H, instead of making the trek from County Road H2, and occasionally on Sunday mornings, they travel quite rapidly along Knollwood Drive. He requested that the Church ask the parishioners to utilize the northerly route. He stated he would like time to review the final plans, and would also request to be a part of the redesign process, so that he could have the opportunity to speak with the Church regarding this proposal, in that his property is located one lot south of the development. Mr. Rudnik stated by and large, the Church has been a very good neighbor, however, there have been some problems with a couple of the tenants who resided in one of their houses, and in this sense, he views the demolition to be a positive thing. He explained that there have been some domestic issues and some verbal abuse among spouses on more than one occasion, and this was loud enough to be heard from inside their homes in the summertime. He inquired if the Church plans to acquire additional properties as it grows, and whether or not they intend to use new single family homes for these social programs. He explained that he does not wish to discourage these programs, however, he would like to be certain there is proper social support for the families the Church brings in.