HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-07-2011
PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
December 7, 2011 -- 7:00 P.M.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Minutes:
November 2, 2011
4. Citizens Requests and Comments Relating to Planning and Zoning Issues Not
Already on the Agenda. (Before speaking, please give your full name and address for
the record.)
5. Planning Cases
A. VR2011-008 Consideration of a Variance to Allow a Detached Accessory
Building to Exceed the Maximum Height Limit
Address: 8027 Woodlawn Drive
Applicant: Tim Downing
B. MI2011-002 Consideration of a Minor Subdivision
Address: 2565 Sherwood Road (adjacent north side vacant parcel)
Applicant: Bob & Mary Pearson
6. Other Planning Activity
A. Set 2012 Planning Commission Meeting Schedule
B. Review 2012 Planning Commissioner Applications
7. Next Planning Commission Meetings:
A. December 21, 2011
B. January 4, 2012
8. Adjourn to Agenda Session
AGENDA SESSION
1. Review Minutes:
a. November 16, 2011
2. Staff Reports
a. Upcoming Planning Cases
3. Chairperson and Planning Commissioners’ Reports
4. Meeting Conclusion
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
Regular Meeting
November 16, 2011
Mounds View City Hall
2401 Highway 10, Mounds View, MN 55112
______________________________________________________________________________
1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Chair Stevenson at 7:00 p.m. for November 16, 2011.
______________________________________________________________________________
2. Roll Call
Members Present: Commissioners Cramblit, Meehlhause, Miller, Rundle, Schiltgen,
Stevenson and Smith.
Absent and Excused: None.
Also Present: Planning Associate Heidi Heller.
______________________________________________________________________________
Index to Minutes Page
Approval of Minutes 1
CU2011-001. Consideration of a Conditional Use Permit for
Outdoor Storage 2
Proposed Zoning Code Amendment to Allow Outdoor Vending
Kiosks in Commercial Zoning Districts 3
Discuss City Code Amendment to Allow Massage Therapy as a Home
Based Business 4
_____________________________________________________________________________
3. Approval of Minutes
October 5, 2011.
MOTION/SECOND: Commissioner Cramblit/Commissioner Schiltgen. To approve the
Minutes of the October 5, 2011 regular Planning Commission meeting as slightly amended.
Mounds View Planning Commission November 16, 2011
Regular Meeting Page 2
________________________________________________________________________
Ayes – 7 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
4. Citizens Requests and Comments on Items Not on the Agenda
None.
______________________________________________________________________________
5. Planning Cases
A. CU2011-001 Consideration of a Conditional Use Permit for Outdoor Storage
Planning Associate Heller requested the Commission consider a conditional use permit (CUP) to
allow outdoor storage for The Tyson Companies located at 4825 Mustang Circle. Tyson
Companies is a trucking and warehouse business that has been located in Mounds View for
many years. The property is zoned industrial and outdoor storage is a conditional use in
industrial districts.
Associate Heller indicated the Tyson Companies would like to utilize their large property for
additional business and be able to offer outdoor storage to customers. The storage area would
only be visible to a few manufactured homes that are directly next to Tyson’s property. The area
has been used for parking semi-trailers for many years, and would now simply include some
stacked product. Staff recommends approval of the conditional use permit as requested.
Chair Stevenson questioned how tall the outdoor storage would be stacked.
Dale Tellers, representing The Tyson Companies, stated they had considered a contract for
storing double high pallets of shingles that would have been about 8 feet tall. He stated that the
height would depend on what the product was being stored.
Chair Stevenson suggested the outdoor storage not exceed the building height.
Commissioner Meehlhause asked if there were OSHA standards regarding storage height.
Mr. Tellers stated safety would be a primary consideration and he would not want any products
damaged or falling since their company is responsible for the product while it was on their
property.
Associate Heller stated fire code may regulate some products, as well as the manufacturer
putting limits on how much they want stacked on top of each other.
Commissioner Meehlhause questioned how long the outdoor storage products would be stored
on site.
Mr. Tellers noted the intent was to have the products sit four to five months before clearing out.
Mounds View Planning Commission November 16, 2011
Regular Meeting Page 3
________________________________________________________________________
MOTION/SECOND: Commissioner Rundle/Commissioner Schiltgen. To approve Resolution
951-11, a Resolution Recommending Approval of a Conditional Use Permit for Tyson Trucking
(D and A Development) at 4825 Mustang Circle; Planning Case No. CU2011-001.
Ayes – 7 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
______________________________________________________________________________
6. Other Planning Activity
A. Proposed Zoning Code Amendment to Allow Outdoor Vending Kiosks in
Commercial Zoning Districts
Planning Associate Heller informed the Commission this item was discussed at the November 2,
2011 Planning meeting. Staff has received a few requests from local businesses requesting to
install Redbox kiosks. At this time, the City Code does not allow for outdoor vending kiosks.
Associate Heller indicated Walgreens has spoken with the City over the past several months
seeking a Code Amendment to allow for this use. The Commission decided that the zoning code
should be amended to allow these kiosks as a conditional use in commercial districts, including
commercial PUD’s, but only at retail stores and restaurants.
Associate Heller reviewed Chapter 1112, B-1 Neighborhood Business District, Subdivision
1112.04 with the Commission. She stated that this new language would be added to the B-1
district conditional uses since the zoning code builds on each chapter. Staff recommends that the
Commission review and comment on the proposed language for the outdoor vending kiosks.
Commissioner Meehlhause asked if hotels should be permitted to offer these vending kiosks.
Chair Stevenson stated this would not be necessary since hotel TV’s offered movie rentals.
Associate Heller added that two of the hotels within the City are very close to McDonalds, which
currently has a Redbox inside the restaurant.
Commissioner Smith questioned if the number of kiosks should be limited to two per site.
Associate Heller stated the number of kiosks allowed would be specified in each Resolution on a
case-by-case basis. Staff and the Planning Commission would need to review the outdoor space
available for each applicant. Applicants can also request a CUP amendment if they want to add a
second kiosk later on.
Chair Stevenson inquired if the Police Department had been contacted regarding this issue.
Associate Heller explained she did not bring this to the Police Department as these vending
kiosks are becoming more common and there would be no cash inside the machine.
Mounds View Planning Commission November 16, 2011
Regular Meeting Page 4
________________________________________________________________________
Commissioner Rundle stated the Redbox units were usually well lit and placed outside of
reputable businesses.
Chair Stevenson thanked Staff for including the requirement of “not impacting the flow of
traffic” in the proposed zoning code language.
MOTION/SECOND: Commissioner Cramblit/Commissioner Rundle. To approve Resolution
952-11, a Resolution Amending Chapter 1112 of the Mounds View Zoning Code to Allow for
Outdoor Vending Kiosks in Commercial Zoning Districts.
Ayes – 7 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
B. Discuss City Code Amendment to Allow Massage Therapy as a Home Based
Business
Planning Associate Heller informed the Commission that at the October 24, 2011 City Council
meeting, a resident asked the Council if massage therapy could be considered as a home based
business in the City of Mounds View. The City Council discussed the idea at their work session
on November 7th. The City Council supports amending the City Code and has asked that the
Planning Commission discuss how this should be accomplished.
Associate Heller explained that currently the City Code only allows massage therapy in at least
the B-2 zoning district and a city business license is required. An extensive amount of
information is required from massage therapists in order to be issued an annual city license.
Staff checked other community city codes and most require a license or conditional use permit to
allow massage therapy as a home based business.
Associate Heller indicated the easiest way to allow massage therapy as a home based business
would be to amend Chapter 514.10, and state that therapeutic massage may be located in
residential zoning districts. The Commission could also choose to allow massage therapy in
residential districts as a conditional use. This would require an amendment to Chapter 1106.04
of the R-1 Single Family Residential Zoning Code, adding therapeutic massage as a conditional
use. This option would allow for greater control on this home based business, however, this may
not be necessary, given the lengthy background check process already completed. She requested
the Commission discuss the proposed zoning amendment options and direct Staff on how to
proceed.
Chair Stevenson questioned how the City would complete a renewal for these business licenses,
and are site visits done as part of the licensing process.
Associate Heller stated no site visits were currently being done for any business licenses. The
Assistant City Administrator processes the business license applications every year, does a
background check if necessary, and updates the City’s records prior to issuing a license.
Associate Heller indicated the City could possibly complete onsite visits.
Mounds View Planning Commission November 16, 2011
Regular Meeting Page 5
________________________________________________________________________
Commissioner Cramblit asked if this use would be allowed in an apartment or townhome unit.
Associate Heller stated this would have to reviewed to see if the City could limit the types of
residential housing this particular home-based business could be located in. She indicated some
rental housing may include language in the leases regarding home-based businesses.
Commissioner Schiltgen felt this type of use needed to be more restricted as there is no State
licensing available for massage therapy.
Commissioner Smith suggested requiring that each business owner prove they are a licensed
massage therapist.
Commissioner Schiltgen inquired if there was a fee for the business license.
Associate Heller stated there are fees for every business license. She was uncertain of the
amount for massage therapists but estimated it to be at least $100.
Chair Stevenson was more comfortable with the conditional use permit for massage therapy
businesses at a reduced planning application rate. He felt this process allowed the City greater
means to regulate the use.
Commissioner Smith questioned if additional employees would be allowed in the home based
business for massage therapists.
Associate Heller noted this was addressed in the City Code section about home businesses.
Commissioner Miller asked if in-home visits were currently allowed.
Associate Heller stated a massage therapist could do in-home visits.
Chair Stevenson supported allowing massage therapy as a home based business with either a
special use permit or a conditional use permit.
The Commission agreed with this recommendation.
Associate Heller stated she would look into other cities Special Use Permits in more detail and
determine the best option and bring this back to the Commission at a future meeting.
______________________________________________________________________________
7. Next Planning Commission Meeting:
A. December 7, 2011
B. December 21, 2011
______________________________________________________________________________
Mounds View Planning Commission November 16, 2011
Regular Meeting Page 6
________________________________________________________________________
8. Adjournment to Agenda Session
There being no further business before the Planning Commission, Chair Stevenson adjourned the
meeting at 7:50 p.m.
______________________________________________________________________________
(The meeting immediately adjourned to the Agenda Session)
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi Heller
Planning Associate
Transcribed by:
Heidi Guenther
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Item No: 5A
Meeting Date: December 7, 2011
Type of Business: Public Hearing
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Mounds View Planning Commission
From: Heidi Heller, Planning Associate
Item Title/Subject: Consideration of a Variance to allow a Detached Accessory
Building to Exceed the Maximum Height Limit at 8027
Woodlawn Drive; Planning Case VR11-008
Introduction:
The applicant, Tim Downing, property owner of 8027 Woodlawn Drive, is requesting a
variance to allow the height of his detached accessory building to exceed the maximum
height limit of 18 feet. Mr. Downing has built a second garage on his property that is 22
feet 10 inches tall.
Discussion:
In October 2007, the applicant was issued a building permit to construct a detached
accessory building on his property. The building plans submitted were for a typical style,
single story, 936 square foot detached garage. At the time the permit was issued, the
Zoning Code height limit was 15 feet as measured midway between the peak and the eave.
Mr. Downing’s garage plans showed a height of 11 feet at the midway point, which met the
current zoning code. In November 2009 the Zoning Code was amended, and the height
limit for accessory buildings was changed to 18 feet at the highest point.
Mr. Downing did not start work on the garage for a long time, and the City Building Official
granted several extensions for his building permit in order to keep the permit “active” until
he had time to start construction. Per the building code, a building permit will stay active as
long as some construction work is being done at least every 6 months. If after 6 months no
work has been done, the permit will expire. The applicant may submit a written request for
an extension of their permit, which the Building Official may grant at their discretion.
A footing inspection for the garage was finally done by the City building inspector on August
31, 2010, and the floor slab was poured the next week. After that, the City did not receive
any requests from Mr. Downing for more inspections. In late August 2011, Staff became
aware that a 2-story garage had been constructed on the applicant’s property. After
reviewing the permit application, staff saw that the garage Mr. Downing built was very
different from the plans he had submitted in 2007. The Building Official attempted to
contact Mr. Downing in late August 2011, and again in September after receiving no
response to the first letter. In early October 2011, staff finally spoke with Mr. Downing and
he submitted a drawing of the as-built garage showing the garage height to the peak was
22 feet 10 inches. At that time, staff informed him that he would need to either reduce the
height of the garage or apply for a variance. Mr. Downing chose to apply for a variance.
Downing Garage Height Variance Report
December 7, 2011
Page 2
The Zoning Code states that the Planning Commission may issue a variance to provide
relief to the landowner in those cases where the Code imposes practical difficulties to the
property owner in the use of the property owner’s land. This is true for all variance
requests. State statutes require that the governing body review a set of specified criteria
for each application and make its decision in accordance with these criteria. These criteria
are set forth in Section 1125.02, Subdivision 2, of the City Code. A variance may be
granted only in the event that all of the following circumstances exist:
a. The variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent of these
regulations.
The zoning code limits the height of buildings in order to maintain visual consistency
throughout neighborhoods. Accessory buildings in particular have these limitations
so they do not exceed the height of the house, and to limit the uses that could occur
in a larger building. This garage is not taller than the house, and will provide more
indoor storage for the applicant.
b. The variance is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
While the Comprehensive Plan does not specify design or size criteria for buildings,
it does support improvements to and the maintenance of properties. One might say
that the applicant has built a “better than standard” looking garage because of the
added design features of windows and dormers.
c. The applicant proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by
this Title or the City Code.
The applicant owns many things that would be stored in a large garage.
d. Unique circumstances apply to the property which do not apply to other properties in
the same zone or vicinity and result from lot size or shape, topography or other
circumstances over which the owner of the property since the enactment of this Title
has had no control. The unique circumstances do not result from the actions of the
applicant.
This property does not have any unique features other than it is a larger lot.
e. The variance does not alter the essential character of the neighborhood.
The applicant’s neighborhood consists of large, almost one acre size lots, and the
applicant has a 2-story house, so the height of the garage is compatible with the
house, and the overall garage size does not feel overwhelming to the property or the
neighborhood. The second garage is behind the front line of both adjacent neighbor’s
home and garage.
Downing Garage Height Variance Report
December 7, 2011
Page 3
f. The variance requested is the minimum variance which would alleviate the practical
difficulties. Economic conditions alone do not constitute practical difficulties.
The 4’10” height variance is the minimum variance needed to alleviate the practical
difficulties since the garage is already built.
g. The Planning Commission may impose such conditions upon the premises benefited
by a variance as may be necessary to comply with the standards established by this
Title or to reduce or minimize the effect of such variance upon other properties in the
neighborhood, and to better carry out the intent of the variance. The condition must
be directly related to and must bear a rough proportionality to the impact created by
the variance.
The applicant has not finished the exterior of the accessory building. A
new/modified building permit for the as-built structure has not yet been approved by
the Building Official. If a variance is granted, staff would recommend imposing
conditions of deadlines for receiving Building Official plan approval for the as-built
garage, issuance and payment for the modified building permit, along with a
deadline for completing the exterior finish of the garage.
Public Hearing:
As with any requested variance, this application requires a public hearing. Staff mailed
notices to all property owners within 350 feet of the applicant’s property and a notice was
published in the Sun Focus newspaper on Thursday, November 24, 2011.
Staff received one phone call from the property owner of 8005 Woodlawn Drive on
November 28, 2011. He is the neighbor immediately adjacent to the south. He is not in
favor of allowing the applicant to disregard the city rules and exceed the height limit for the
detached garage. The neighbor indicated that the applicant has also expanded the front
garage without a permit, and there is still no finished exterior surface on the expanded area
walls after at least 3 years. The neighbor has concerns about the overall maintenance of
the property, particularly the several vehicles, trailers and farm equipment that are in the
backyard and parking off the driveway in the grass.
Downing Garage Height Variance Report
December 7, 2011
Page 4
Recommendation:
Staff recommends holding the public hearing and taking testimony from staff, the applicant
and the public. The Commission may take one of the following actions related to the
request:
1. Approve the variance as requested. An approval version of Resolution 955-11 is
attached for action if the Commission so chooses.
2. Deny the requested variance. A denial version of Resolution 955-11 is attached for
action if the Commission so chooses.
3. Table the request. If the Planning Commission needs more information before
making a decision or if they decide there is a need for more discussion, the Commission
can simply move to table the request until such information has been provided.
Respectfully Submitted By,
Heidi Heller
Planning Associate
Attachments:
1. Zoning Map
2. Aerial Photos
3. Photographic Documentation
4. Drawing of Garage
5. Letter from Applicant, Tim Downing
6. Resolution 955-11 (Approval & Denial versions)
NZONING MAP
* Properties not indicated with a designation are zoned R-1, Single Family Residential
Aerial View N
H
New
Garage
location
8027
The aerial photo was taken before the garage was constructed, but the footprint area
has been cleared.
Photographic Documentation
View of property from the street.
Top of tall garage is visible
behind the front garage.
Looking southeast across the
backyard. View of north side
of tall garage.
Rear corner roof
overhang of the
front garage
View of front/west side of tall
garage.
Looking southwest across
backyard at tall garage and
back of house (standing in
NE corner of yard)
View of rear of tall garage
and south neighbors house
and garage (standing in SE
corner of yard) South neighbor’s property:
GARAGE and HOUSE
Drawing of front of as-built garage
Letter from Applicant
Letter from Applicant
APPROVAL
VERSION
MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 955-11
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION APPROVING A VARIANCE TO ALLOW A 22 FOOT 10 INCH TALL
DETACHED ACCESSORY BUILDING AT 8027 WOODLAWN DRIVE;
PLANNING CASE VR2011-008
WHEREAS, the applicant, Tim Downing, property owner of 8027 Woodlawn Drive,
has applied for a variance to allow a 22 foot 10 inch tall garage on his property; and,
WHEREAS, 8027 Woodlawn Drive is zoned R-1, Single Family Residential, and
legally described as:
Woodlawn Terrace, Lot 24, Ramsey County, Minnesota
PIN 05-30-23-32-0033
WHEREAS, the Mounds View Planning Commission has reviewed the following
documents regarding this proposal:
1. Zoning Map
2. Aerial View
3. Photographic Documentation
4. Staff Report
WHEREAS, the purpose of the variance provision in the Zoning Code is to give relief
to property owners when the strict enforcement of the zoning code requirements restricts
the improvement of property due to practical difficulties brought about by unique or
extraordinary features of the physical property that are beyond the property owner’s control;
and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly-noticed public hearing regarding
this request on December 7, 2011; and,
WHEREAS, according to Section 1125.02, Subdivision 2 of the Mounds View
Municipal Code, the Planning Commission is to review a standard set of criteria, of which
all must be satisfied, in order to grant a variance to the Zoning Code.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Mounds View Planning Commission finds
that the criteria as identified in Section 1125.02, Subdivision 2 of the Mounds View
Municipal Code are satisfied and finds there to be sufficient practical difficulty with regard to
the property located at 8027 Woodlawn Drive, and makes the following findings of fact
related to its decision:
Resolution 955-11
Page 2
1. The garage does not exceed the height of the house and is intended to provide
enough indoor storage for the amount of items that the applicant owns.
2. The variance is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan in that the applicant has
added a significant improvement to his property and can store more items indoors.
3. The applicant owns several vehicles, trailers and other equipment that could be
stored indoors. He will be able to maintain his property by being able to store most
or all of his items inside.
4. The applicant’s lot is almost an acre in size, which is larger than most in the city.
5. The tall garage does not appear to be an overwhelming size for the neighborhood or
the applicant’s property.
6. The 4’10” variance is the minimum variance required to alleviate the applicant’s
practical difficulty since the structure is already built.
7. The Planning Commission may impose conditions upon the premises as may be
necessary to comply with city standards and to minimize the effect of such variance
upon other properties in the neighborhood. These conditions are as follows:
a. The applicant must receive approval from the Building Official for a new
building permit for the garage as it is actually built.
b. The applicant must pay the additional permit fees for the new building permit.
c. The applicant must complete the exterior of the garage by April 1, 2012.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, the Mounds View Planning
Commission, based upon the above findings, approves the variance request of Tim
Downing, property owner of 8027 Woodlawn Drive, to allow one 22 foot 10 inch tall garage,
subject to the conditions stated above in Item 7.
Adopted this 7th day of December, 2011.
_________________________________
Gary Stevenson, Chair
ATTEST:
__________________________________
James Ericson, City Administrator
(SEAL)
DENIAL
VERSION
MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 955-11
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION DENYING A VARIANCE TO ALLOW AN ACCESSORY BUILDING TO
EXCEED THE 18 FOOT HEIGHT LIMIT AT 8027 WOODLAWN DRIVE;
PLANNING CASE VR2011-008
WHEREAS, the applicant, Tim Downing, property owner of 8027 Woodlawn Drive,
has applied for a variance to allow a 22 foot 10 inch tall garage on his property; and,
WHEREAS, 8027 Woodlawn Drive is zoned R-1, Single Family Residential, and
legally described as:
Woodlawn Terrace, Lot 24, Ramsey County, Minnesota
PIN 05-30-23-32-0033
WHEREAS, the Mounds View Planning Commission has reviewed the following
documents regarding this proposal:
1. Zoning Map
2. Aerial View
3. Photographic Documentation
4. Staff Report
WHEREAS, the purpose of the variance provision in the Zoning Code is to give relief
to property owners when the strict enforcement of the zoning code requirements restricts
the improvement of property due to practical difficulties brought about by unique or
extraordinary features of the physical property that are beyond the property owner’s control;
and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly-noticed public hearing regarding
this request on December 7, 2011; and,
WHEREAS, according to Section 1125.02, Subdivision 2 of the Mounds View
Municipal Code, the Planning Commission is to review a standard set of criteria, of which
all must be satisfied, in order to grant a variance to the Zoning Code.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Mounds View Planning Commission finds
that all of the criteria as identified in Section 1125.02, Subdivision 2 of the Mounds View
Municipal Code are not satisfied, and finds there not to be sufficient practical difficulty with
regard to the property located at 8027 Woodlawn Drive, and makes the following findings of
fact related to its decision:
Resolution 955-11
Page 2
1. The Zoning Code has established regulations for accessory building height in order
to maintain visual consistency in the neighborhood, and to prevent accessory
buildings from being taller or overshadow the house on the property. The applicant
did not follow his submitted and City approved building plans, and did not follow City
Code regulations.
2. The variance may not be inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan, although the
Comprehensive Plan would not encourage property owners to not follow City Code
regulations.
3. The applicant may intend to use the property and garage in a reasonable manner,
but has not demonstrated that there is a true “practical difficulty” associated with this
property that would warrant allowing a garage to exceed the Zoning Code height
limit.
4. There are no unique circumstances that apply to this property. The need to apply
for a variance is the direct result of actions by the property owner.
5. Granting a variance to allow a taller garage may not alter the character of this
particular neighborhood since the lots are large.
6. The variance requested is the minimum variance needed since the garage is already
built.
7. The Planning Commission may impose conditions upon the premises as may be
necessary to comply with city standards and to minimize the effect of such variance
upon other properties in the neighborhood.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, the Mounds View Planning
Commission, based upon the above findings, denies the variance request of Tim Downing,
property owner of 8027 Woodlawn Drive, to allow a garage to exceed the 18 foot accessory
building height limit.
Adopted this 7th day of December, 2011.
_________________________________
Gary Stevenson, Chair
ATTEST:
__________________________________
James Ericson, City Administrator
(SEAL)
Item No: 5B
Meeting Date: December 7, 2011
Type of Business: Business
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Mounds View Planning Commission
From: Heidi Heller, Planning Associate
Item Title/Subject: Consideration of the Minor Subdivision of a Vacant Lot
Adjacent to 2565 Sherwood Road;
Planning Case MI2011-002
Introduction:
Bob & Mary Pearson have applied for a minor subdivision to subdivide a vacant lot they
own adjacent to their property at 2565 Sherwood Road. The lot is not for development
purposes, but has simply been additional backyard area for the Pearsons since they
purchased it in 2000. Their neighbor, Joe Holl, at 2573 Sherwood would now like to buy
the west half of this vacant lot, also for more backyard space.
The proposed subdivision will create two vacant lots. The applicants have submitted a
Certificate of Survey that shows the subdivision.
Discussion:
A minor subdivision is ordinarily a division of land less than two acres in area in which no more
than one additional lot is created.
The lot is zoned R-1, Single Family Residential and the Comprehensive Plan designates this
area for low density residential. The minimum lot width for interior residential parcels is 75
feet and the minimum lot area is 11,000 square feet, and corner lots must be a minimum of
100 feet wide and 12,500 square feet. Below is a table which shows the dimensions for the
parcels before and as a result of the proposed adjustment:
Before
Area Sq. Feet / Lot Dimension
After
Area Sq. feet / Lot Dimension
Pearson owned lot 29,904 square feet
299’ x 10’
11,365 square feet
113.65’ x 100’
Holl owned lot N/A 18,539 square feet
185.39’ x 100’
As this table shows, the proposed lots will meet or exceed all city standards.
At this point, neither lot is planned for development. The east lot that the Pearsons will
own is land-locked. The new lot that Mr. Holl will own does have Greenwood Drive right-
of-way on the west side, so could have street frontage at some point. A few years ago
when the housing market was good, some developers had been attempting to assemble
land in this area, and planned to construct Greenwood Drive for the development’s access
road. The new lot that Mr. Holl will own does meet the City’s size standards for a
“buildable lot” if Greenwood Drive were to be built.
Pearson Subdivision Staff Report
December 7, 2011
Page 2
Park Dedication Requirements.
Subdivisions of land are subject to park dedication requirements consistent with Chapter 1204
of the City Code. When the subdivided parcels are not going to be developed, Staff typically
recommends that the park dedication fee not be required. Since there are no current plans for
development of the lots, staff is recommending that the park dedication fee not be required at
this time. However, the west lot is technically “buildable” because of the existing platted road
right-of-way frontage. Staff is including a condition in the resolution stating that if a house is
ever built on either of these lots, a park dedication fee will be required as part of the building
permit application.
Easements.
With most subdivisions, the City requires the owner to dedicate drainage and utility easements
around the perimeter of the lot. Since there will be no construction occurring, staff is not
requiring that these easements be added at this time. There are currently existing easements
shown on the survey that will remain in place.
Public Notice.
No public notice is required for a minor subdivision.
Summary.
The proposed subdivision will simply split the vacant property and create one new parcel. All
minimum city requirements are met with this request. The new property line was placed so
that the Pearon’s shed has the required minimum 5 foot setback.
Recommendation:
Because the proposed subdivision satisfies all city code requirements, Staff is recommending
approval of Resolution 954-11, a resolution approving the minor subdivision of a vacant lot
owned by Bob & Mary Pearson, adjacent to 2565 Sherwood Road.
Respectfully Submitted By,
Heidi Heller
Planning Associate
Attachments:
1. Zoning Map
2. Aerial Map
3. Resolution 954-11
4. Certificate of Survey
Zoning Map
Properties not indicated with a designation are zoned R-1, Single Family Residential
Areas shown with red dots are City roadway easements
N
NAerial Map
New
property
line
2573 - Holl
2565 - Pearson
Greenwood
Drive right-
of-way
easement
area
N
MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 954-11
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF A MINOR SUBDIVISION OF THE
VACANT LOT OWNED BY ROBERT AND MARY PEARSON, ADJACENT TO 2565
SHERWOOD ROAD; PLANNING CASE NO. MI2011-002
WHEREAS, Robert and Mary Pearson have requested approval of a minor
subdivision of a vacant lot they own adjacent to their property at 2565 Sherwood Road, a
property zoned R-1, Single Family Residential, and legally-described as:
The Westerly 299.00 feet of the Easterly 528.66 feet of the North 100.00 feet of the
South 262.00 feet of the Northeast Quarter of Section 6, Township 30 North, Range 23
West, Ramsey County, Minnesota
PIN 06-30-23-14-0071
WHEREAS, the Applicants propose to subdivide this vacant lot into two lots; Robert
and Mary Pearson will remain the owners of the east lot, and intend to sell the west lot;
and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has reviewed the Applicants request for a
minor subdivision and has determined that it is in conformance with Chapters 1104, 1201,
and 1202 of the Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission finds that the Applicants request for a minor
subdivision is in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan; and,
WHEREAS, since both parcels are planned to remain vacant open space and no
additional homes built as part of this subdivision, a park dedication fee is not required with
this subdivision application; and,
WHEREAS, if in the future, a new house is constructed on either of these vacant
parcels, a park dedication fee, based on five percent of the Ramsey County assessed
market land value (of the year current at the time of building permit application), will be
required before a building permit is issued.
Resolution 954-11
Page 2
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Applicants shall have 6 months
from final approval to file proper documentation with Ramsey County, including new deeds,
and furnish proof of such recording to the City. If such action is not accomplished by the
date so indicated, this minor subdivision approval shall be considered null and void.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mounds View Planning
Commission recommends approval of a minor subdivision of the vacant lot owned by
Robert & Mary Pearson, adjacent to their property at 2565 Sherwood Road, subject to the
following stipulations:
1. The Applicants shall complete any and all requirements after final review of the
Certificate of Survey and title commitment by the City Attorney.
2. The Applicants shall arrange to amend the Certificate of Survey if any changes
are required by Ramsey County.
3. The Applicants are responsible for reimbursing the City of all fees associated
with this subdivision request.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Mounds View Planning
Commission directs staff to forward this resolution to the City Council prior to approval of
the minutes.
Adopted this 7th day of December, 2011.
__________________________________________
Gary Stevenson, Chairperson
ATTEST:
_____________________________________
James Ericson, City Administrator
(SEAL)
Item No: 6A
Meeting Date: December 7, 2011
Type of Business: Other Planning Activity
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Mounds View Planning Commission
From: Heidi Heller, Planning Associate
Subject: Consideration of Resolution 953-11, Establishing the Planning
Commission’s 2012 Meeting Schedule.
Introduction:
The Planning Commission establishes its meeting schedule each year by resolution.
Discussion:
The meeting schedule proposed for 2012 represents the usual first and third Wednesday of
every month with the exception of July, which will need to be adjusted to account for
Independence Day.
The first Wednesday in July is July 4th. Typically, in the past when this has happened, the
meetings were shifted that month to the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays. This is not possible to do
now because the Charter Commission meets on the 2nd Wednesday. The options to deal with
this holiday is to (a) only hold only one meeting in July or (b) shift the meeting to either
Tuesday, July 3rd or Thursday, July 5th. Staff would recommend going with option B, shifting
the meeting to Tuesday or Thursday. That way there is a meeting scheduled if necessary, but
it can be cancelled if there are no planning cases.
There do not appear to be any other conflicts with holidays that would fall midweek with the
exception of November 21st, which is the day before Thanksgiving. If there are no planning
cases for consideration during that time, the meeting could be cancelled.
Recommendation:
Discuss options for dealing with the first July meeting and Approve Resolution 953-11, a
resolution establishing the 2012 meeting schedule of the Planning Commission. The schedule
attached has been drafted with the first July meeting changed to Tuesday, July 3rd, but this
may be amended based on Commission direction.
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi Heller
Planning Associate
MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 953-11
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE 2012 MEETING SCHEDULE OF THE
MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
WHEREAS, the Mounds View Planning Commission intends to hold two regular
meetings per month during the year 2012; and,
WHEREAS, with the exception of July, the Planning Commission will meet on the
first and third Wednesdays of each month, or as amended; and,
WHEREAS, the schedule of meeting dates shall be established and posted to
provide an orderly system for use by the Planning Commission, staff and general public.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Exhibit 1, attached hereto, is the
Planning Commission’s official meeting schedule for the year 2012.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that if the Planning Commission is required to or
desires to hold special or emergency meetings, such meetings will be held in accordance
with State law, Code requirements and Commission Bylaws.
Adopted this 7th day of December, 2011
____________________________________
Gary Stevenson
Chairperson
ATTEST
____________________________________
James Ericson, City Administrator
(SEAL)
EXHIBIT 1.
2012 MEETING SCHEDULE
MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
January 4 January 18
February 1 February 15
March 7 March 21
April 4 April 18
May 2 May 16
June 6 June 20
July 3 (Tuesday) July 18
August 1 August 15
September 5 September 19
October 3 October 17
November 7 November 21
December 5 December 19
Item No: 6B
Meeting Date: December 7, 2011
Type of Business: Other Planning Activity
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Mounds View Planning Commission
From: Heidi Heller, Planning Associate
Item Title/Subject: Planning Commission Term Expirations and New
Applications Review
The term of three Planning Commission members – Gary Stevenson, Gary Meehlhause
and Jean Miller - expire at the end of the year. The City advertised the vacancies, with
applications due on November 10, 2011. Staff received applications from all three current
Commissioners for another term. No other applications for the Planning Commission were
received by the City.
The Planning Commission will review the applications at the December 7, 2011 meeting,
and the City Council will make the official appointments on December 12, 2011.
Sincerely,
Heidi Heller
Planning Associate
Attachments:
1. Planning Application from Gary Stevenson
2. Planning Application from Gary Meehlhause
3. Planning Application from Jean Miller