2023-02-15 PC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Item 06A Page 2 of 4 options 1, 2, 3, and 4 discussed above. The developer then presents a concept plan to the Planning Commission and City Council. Typically, the developer will ask for everything they want (maximum density, minimal setbacks and parking reductions). Commissioners and Councilmembers will provide feedback, and the developer revises their plans accordingly. During the concept plan stage, there has not been a lot of feedback provided to developers, which is a signal to the Developer to submit a formal application for everything they want (e.g lots of deviations from City Code requirements). It is Staff's opinion that the Commission/Council is over -relying on PUD's and the flexibility it provides, when the problem is the City Code itself. For example, when there are frequent Variances approved to deviate from a specific code requirement (e.g. driveway setback), it's a sign that the code may be the problem. If PUD's are frequently being approved with higher densities, lesser setbacks, and lesser parking, then should the City Code be amended to allow these by -right? Within the foreseeable future (1-5 years), it is likely that PUD applications will be submitted for several townhome and apartment projects. Analysis: PUD's are divided into; Residential (3+ acres), Commercial/Industrial (5+ acres), and Mixed -Use (4+ acres). Each PUD type has specific requirements such as density bonuses and setbacks, which contradicts the "flexibility" intended by PUD's. Thus, it is the Council's interpretation of the Code that matters (is it a good project?), but still needs to be justified (it is a good project because the reduction in setbacks "here" allows for preservation natural features "there"). The purpose and intent of PUD's are (paraphrased):4 1. Coordination of development as opposed to parcel by parcel development; Note: The City has verbally agreed to reduce the minimum Residential PUD project size, from 3 acres to 1 acre.5 6 2. Flexibility of site design and architecture, to conserve land and open space; Note: A number of projects have been approved with reduced landscaping, and building materials.' Within the Boulevard corridor, a minimum of 50% of every wall must be stone, masonry, glass, or comparable/superior material. This can be subjective.8 "Usable Open Space" is intended for active or passive recreation. In practice, everywhere grass and trees can grow is open space (reduced at Gray Stone Flats9). Should there be a minimum sized "active" recreation area? n City Code §160.315 (Purpose and Intent) 5 Long Lake Cove concept plan, Planning Commission, Aug 3, 2022. e Simons concept plan, City Council, Aug 9, 2021. The Villas of Mounds View (landscaping), Gray Stone Flats (landscaping) $ Caribou Cabin PUD Amendment; cement board siding (superior material) in place of masonry. 9 Gray Stone Flats was reduced from 625sf open space p/unit to 461 sf p/unit. i nu rviuunus view visiun A Thriving Desirable Community