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Mounds View Planning Commission June 7, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 3 ________________________________________________________________________ Director Ericson asked the Planning Commission to review and discuss the request and consider the merits of rezoning the subject parcels from R-1 and B-3 to R-3 to allow for a 19-unit owner- occupied townhome development. Two resolutions were prepared – one for approval and one for denial. Both resolutions are available for the Commission’s recommended action, which will then be presented to the City Council for consideration at the June 26, 2006 meeting. Director Ericson encouraged questions and comments from the Commission and the audience. Acting Chair Miller stated that no action was taken on this issue at the last meeting due to the absence of Commissioners. There are two Commissioners absent at this meeting also. Director Ericson stressed that Minnesota law states a response within 60 days to a planning application is required. This can be extended out another 60 days. Having two members absent does not preclude the Planning Commission from taking action, however if the decision is to be delayed, a letter must go out to the applicant. Commissioner Zwirn asked if Integra has requested urgency of action on this. Director Ericson indicated nothing has been brought to the staff. Acting Chair Miller asked if anyone in the audience would like to make comments. Mr. Duane Waldoch, 2935 County Road 10, appeared before the Commission. When he found out about PUD plan, he was initially upset. His concern now is if the property owner bought the property intending to build townhomes. If so, Mr. Waldoch stated, he did not do his homework and questions if the Planning Commission is now obligated to help fix his problem. Mr. Waldoch feels this property has potential for other opportunities. There are other townhomes being built in the area, so why does Mounds View need more built on this site. He indicated that residents of the proposed Integra townhomes would have to make a right-hand turn out of the complex, thus taking them away from Mounds View rather than into the City. Mr. Waldoch pointed out that there are nine acres in the PUD and he believes feelers should go out to other developers for building businesses more beneficial to Mounds View. He is also concerned that these townhomes will become rental properties rather than owner-occupied. Commissioner Scotch asked Mr. Waldoch what he would like to see built on this lot. He responded by saying that is tough to answer and believes the whole PUD area should be looked at and all opportunities explored. If this area is not Zoned R-3, the developer has the option to sell it. With the potential of the Vikings Stadium being built in the area, he believes more businesses such as restaurants and hotels are viable options. He reasoned that if this area is held up for townhomes, Mounds View is cutting their throats. He stressed that he is not against townhomes; he is against not exploring all options for this area. He asked how building townhomes would benefit Mounds View. Mr. Waldoch hopes the Planning Commission does not rush to approve rezoning to R-3. Mrs. Cindy Johnson, 2865 NE County Road 10, addressed the Commission. She believes the building of townhomes is not following the established Comprehensive Plan and is not part of the vision for Mounds View. She pointed out that $12,000 was spent to remove buildings and clean