Minutes - 2006/07/10 (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council July 10, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 7 • location and did not identify any. He stated the Planning Commission considered a reduced setback variance and explained that there is a storm water management pond at the northeast corner of the property forcing the billboard to be set back 5 feet from the property line, which is 30 feet from the roadway. He stated the City Engineer Technician and Public Works Director Lee did not anticipate a problem. Director Ericson stated Staff recommends approval of the resolution and variance. The property owners within 350 feet were notified and adjoining property owners have no problems with the billboard. Director Ericson stated the billboard would require a permit from MNDot and there is an additional approval process beyond Mounds View's City Council. He stated the resolution has been provided for the Council's review and the City Attorney suggested additional language be added to the resolution indicating there is an easement in the location and that the City acknowledges the easement and consents to the billboard's location. Mayor Marty opened the public hearing at 7:53 p.m. Hearing no public input, Mayor Many closed the public hearing at 7:53 p.m. Councilmember Gunn requested that after sixth "whereas," the words "requires that" be removed • and the additional language as under number 3 is added. Director Ericson suggested alternate language "The City of Mounds View hereby consents to the sighting of the requested billboard within the City's utility and drainage easement for as long as the Interim Use Permit is in force and so long as said billboard does not interfere with the City's present or future use of the easement area." Director Ericson stated there are a few additional concerns about trees and the heights. Councilmember Flaherty asked for clarification regarding the impact of the Council approving the letter about the removal of trees. Director Ericson stated there is a request to remove some scrub trees in the MNDot right-of--way. He stated the City is being asked for a letter of consent to the removal of the trees if MNDot approves the request. Director Ericson stated the concern is that the trees will grow to a height that will interfere with the billboard. He stated the City is recommending removal of the trees. Mr. Sontaire stated the trees are mostly cottonwood and there are a few pine trees. He stated of the trees, six are dead or dying and consistent with MNDot's past practice, those will be removed. He stated the trees were not planted by MNDot to serve as a screen. He stated there is a very strong likelihood that the tree removal will be approved by MNDot and the request is strengthened with support from the City. • Mayor Marty stated he supports a billboard in the area and removal of the trees.