HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-10-2019 PC Packet
PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
July 10, 2019 - 7:00 P.M.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Special Order of Business
A. (none)
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. Public Hearing; Resolution 1102-19, Approval of a Variance to allow the combined square
footage of accessory buildings in a rear yard to exceed 20%; and Variance to reduce the
front yard setback for a detached garage, for property at 2832 Sherwood Rd (Planning
Case VR2019-001).
B. Resolution 1104-19, Review of an Administrative Variance to reduce the side yard setback
from 5’ to 3’ for a driveway, for property located at 8405 Red Oak Dr (Planning Case
AV2019-001).
6. Other Planning Activity
A. (none)
7. Reports
A. Upcoming Planning Cases & Activity
B. Staff Updates
C. Council Updates
D. Planning Commissioner Reports
8. Approval of Minutes:
A. June 19, 2019
9. Next Planning Commission Meetings:
A. Wednesday, July 17, 2019
B. Wednesday, August 7, 2019
10. Meeting Conclusion
Item No: ___05A
Meeting Date: July 10, 2019
Type of Business: Planning Case VR2019-001
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Mounds View Planning Commission
From: Jon Sevald, Community Development Director
Item Title/Subject: Public Hearing; Resolution 1102-19, Approval of a
Variance to allow the combined square footage of
accessory buildings in a rear yard to exceed 20%; and
Variance to reduce the front yard setback for a detached
garage, for property at 2832 Sherwood Rd (Planning Case
VR2019-001).
Introduction
The Applicant, Marsha Anderson, is proposing to build a two-car garage and breezeway to
connect the house and garage. No garage exists currently.
Discussion
The property is located at the southeast corner of Sherwood Road and Groveland Road, subject
to having two front yards. The lot is non-conforming because its size (9,470 sq ft) is less than
the 12,500 sq ft required under the current City Code for a corner lot. The house is non-
conforming because it is set back about 22’ from the Groveland Road property line, whereas a
minimum 30’ is required.
The City Code 1 allows up to 20% of a rear yard to consist of Accessory Buildings. The
proposed garage and breezeway are accessory buildings, and together will be 25%.
The proposed 24’ X 28’ garage will be located in the rear yard. The front of the garage will be
set back 22’, the same as the house, requiring a Variance to reduce the setback from 30’ to 22’.
Analysis
Maximum Permitted Existing Proposed
Rear Yard Area 3,120 sq ft 3,120 sq ft
Existing Shed 100 sq ft 0 sq ft
Proposed Garage 0 672 sq ft (22%)
Proposed Breezeway 0 108 sq ft (3%)
TOTAL Accessory Buildings 624 sq ft (20%) 100 sq ft (3%) 780 sq ft (25%)
The applicant is requesting to round up, to 800 sq ft (26%) in accessory building area.
1 City Code, Section 1106.03, Subdivision 1(d); “The combined square footage of accessory buildings in a rear yard
shall not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the rear yard.”
Item 05A
Page 2 of 11
The existing shed will be removed, once the garage is built.
The existing deck on the side of the house is located in a front yard, and does not count toward
the maximum accessory building area permitted in a rear yard.
City Code, Section 1125.02, Subd 2 establishes the criteria for granting a Variance. Staff’s
detailed analysis is included in the Resolution. In summary, it is reasonable for every home in
an R-1 district to have at least a two-car garage.2 Additionally, it is reasonable for the proposed
garage to match the setback of the existing house. If the garage had a 30’ setback, it would
decrease the usable area of the rear yard lawn.
In 2015, the Commission approved a similar Variance on a corner lot, in which a proposed
detached garage would match the setback of the house (20’) (Planning Case VR2015-008).
Summary
The applicant wishes to build a two-car garage and breezeway (Accessory Buildings),
consisting of 26% in area of the rear yard, whereas 20% is the maximum permitted. The
proposed garage will be set back the same as the house (22’), whereas a minimum of 30’ is
required.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of the Variances.
The Planning Commission is requested to consider the following options, including conducting a
Public Hearing for the Variance requests. A 2/3’s vote of the Commission (5 of 7 members) is
required to approve or deny a Variance.3
1. Approve Resolution 1102-19, approving the Variance.
2. Deny the requested Variance. If the Commission chooses this option, Staff would need to
be directed to draft a resolution of denial with findings of fact appropriate to support the
denial.
3. Table the request. If additional information is needed before a decision can be rendered or
if more discussion is needed, the Commission can simply move to table the request until
such information has been provided. Because of the 60-day requirements (Deadline:
August 4, 2019 4) the Commission would need to act upon the request as soon as
reasonably possible to avoid an inadvertent approval.
2 City Code, Section 1106.02, Subd 1(b); “Every dwelling house hereafter erected shall be so located on the lot so
that at least a two (2) car garage, either attached or detached, can be located on said lot.”
3 City Code, Section 1125.02, Subd 4(f); “A variance of this Zoning Code or the granting of an appeal shall be by
two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full Planning and Zoning Commission serving as the Board of Adjustment and
Appeals.”
4 Email from Marsha Anderson to Jon Sevald, June 4, 2019, confirming modification of Application, adding second
Variance request (reduced building setback).
Item 05A
Page 3 of 11
Respectfully submitted,
________________________
Jon Sevald, AICP
Community Development Director
Attachments
1. Zoning Map
2. Aerial Map
3. Site Photos
4. Site Plan
5. Resolution 1102-19
Item 05A
Page 4 of 11
Zoning Map
Item 05A
Page 5 of 11
Aerial Photo
Item 05A
Page 6 of 11
Site Photos
2832 Sherwood Rd, view looking east from Groveland Rd (June 26, 2019)
2832 Sherwood Rd, view looking northeast from Groveland Rd (June 26, 2019).
Item 05A
Page 7 of 11
Site Plan
Item 05A
Page 8 of 11
MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 1102-19
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A VARINACE TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM COMBINED
SQUARE FOOTAGE OF ACCESSORY BUILDINGS IN A REAR YARD, FROM 20% TO 26%
(up to 800 sq ft) FOR A GARAGE AND BREEZEWAY; AND A VARIANCE TO REDUCE THE
FRONT YARD SETBACK FROM 30’ TO 22’ FOR A GARAGE, FOR PROPERTY LOCATED
AT 2832 SHERWOOD ROAD
WHEREAS, the applicant, Marsha Anderson, is requesting two Variances to construct a
garage and breezeway (both are accessory buildings), on property located at 2832 Sherwood
Road, legally described as:
PID: 06-30-23-31-0020
SUBJ TO RDS AND EX E 379 1/10 FT THE N 1/2 OF LOT 64;
AUDITOR'S SUBDIVISION NO. 89
WHEREAS, the property is zoned R-1 Single Family Residential, and guided Single-
Family Detached in the Comprehensive Plan (2008); and,
WHEREAS, the proposed garage measures 28’ X 24’ (672 sq ft), and proposed
breezeway will measure up to 128 sq ft (800 sq ft, combined); and,
WHEREAS, City Code, Section 1106.03, Subd 1(d) states; “The combined square
footage of accessory buildings in a rear yard shall not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the rear
yard.” Per Ramsey County GIS mapping, the rear yard measures approximately 3,120 sq ft in
area (20% = 624 sq ft). The proposed garage and breezeway = 26% in area of the rear yard,
necessitating a Variance; and,
WHEREAS, City Code, Section 1104.01, Subd 4(a)(1)(b) regarding Minimum Setbacks
for Accessory Buildings, states; “side: five feet (5’) except the minimum setback shall be thirty
feet (30’) from any lot line abutting a public street.” The proposed garage will have an equal
setback as the house, from Groveland Road. Per Ramsey County GIS mapping, the house is
estimated to be set back 22’ from the property line. A Variance is necessary to reduce the side
yard building setback from 30’ to 22’; and,
WHEREAS, City Code, Section 1125.02, Subd 2 establishes the following criteria for
granting a Variance (findings in italics):
a. The variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent of this Title.
Item 05A
Page 9 of 11
Finding: It is the intent of this Title (City Code) that within the R-1 district, every lot
with a dwelling be permitted to have at least a two-car garage.
The house was constructed in 1956 without a garage. Mounds View City
Code, Section 1106.02, Subdivision 1(b) states; “Every dwelling house
hereafter erected [August 14, 2000] shall be so located on the lot so that
at least a two (2) car garage, either attached or detached, can be located
on said lot”.
b. The variance is consistent with the comprehensive plan.
Finding: The property is guided “Single Family Detached” [Residential]. Garages
are not specifically addressed by the Comprehensive Plan (2008). The
Variance relates to the following:
Residential
Goal 1: Preserve the identity and maintain and improve the quality
and appearance of existing neighborhoods.
Finding: The proposed garage and breezeway improve the
property, and the appearance of the neighborhood.
Goal 3: Encourage a creative approach to the use of land and
related residential development.
Policy c. The City will encourage the upgrade and expansion of
homes by providing flexible standards that address the
unique circumstances of expanding existing single
dwellings.
Finding: The proposed two-car garage is an upgrade from the
existing 10’ X 10’ shed, and is integral to the use of the
property. Approval of this Variance provides “flexible
standards” addressing unique circumstances of this non-
conforming lot (due to its small lot size).
c. The applicant proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by
this Title or the City Code.
Finding: The proposed two-car garage and breezeway are a reasonable use of the
property.
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.
Finding: Within the R-1 zoning district, the minimum lot size for a corner lot is
12,500 sq ft. The subject property is 9,470 sq ft and is a non-conforming
Item 05A
Page 10 of 11
lot, contributing to a rear yard area that severely restricts the maximum
area of accessory buildings that could be built. If not to exceed 20% of
the rear yard area, then 624 sq ft is the maximum accessory building area
permitted. The proposed two-car garage is 672 sq ft in area, and
proposed breezeway is up to 128 sq ft in area (800 sq ft total, or 26% of
the rear yard area).
e. The variance does not alter the essential character of the neighborhood.
Finding: The proposed garage and breezeway will not alter the essential character
of the neighborhood.
f. The variance requested is the minimum variance which would alleviate the practical
difficulties. Economic conditions alone do not constitute practical difficulties.
Finding: The proposed 24’ X 28’ two-car garage is a reasonable size, as is the 128
sq ft breezeway.
g. The Board of Adjustment and Appeals 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.
WHEREAS, A Public Hearing notice was dully published in the June 26, 2019 edition of
the New Brighton/Mounds View Bulletin, and mailed to property owners within 350’ of
the subject property; and,
WHEREAS, A Public Hearing was held by the Mounds View Planning and Zoning
Commission on July 10, 2019; and,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Mounds View Planning and Zoning
Commission, based upon the above findings, the staff report, and in consideration of public
testimony, approves a Variance to allow a garage and breezeway (Accessory Buildings), not to
exceed 800 sq ft in combined area (26% of rear yard), and to reduce the side (front) yard
setback from 30’ to 22’, such that the garage setback matches that of the house, located on
property at 2832 Sherwood Road, with the following conditions:
1. The applicant shall obtain a building permit for the garage and breezeway, within one-
year of the date of this Resolution (no later than July 10, 2020), unless requesting an
extension at least 30-days prior to this deadline, or approval of this Variance shall
become void, consistent with City Code, Section 1125.02, Subd 5 (Lapse of Variance or
Appeal).
2. The existing shed shall be removed prior to the City approving the Final Inspection of the
garage.
Item 05A
Page 11 of 11
Adopted this 10th day of July, 2019
______________________________
Gary Stevenson, Chair
Attest:
______________________________
Jon Sevald, Community Development Director
(Seal)
Item No: ___05B
Meeting Date: July 10, 2019
Type of Business: Planning Case AV2019-001
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Mounds View Planning Commission
From: Jon Sevald, Community Development Director
Item Title/Subject: Resolution 1104-19, Review of an Administrative
Variance to reduce the side yard setback from 5’ to 3’ for a
driveway, for property located at 8405 Red Oak Dr
(Planning Case AV2019-001).
Introduction
The Applicant, Tim Rodgers has requested, and the Community Development Director has
approved, an Administrative Variance to reduce the side yard setback from 5’ to 3’ for a
driveway, subject to no objections from adjacent neighbors, and review by the Planning
Commission.
Discussion
In June 2019, the applicant applied for a Zoning Permit to replace a dirt driveway, original to the
house (1941). The request included a 0’ setback to match an existing concrete driveway in front
of the garage (installed without a permit). The dirt driveway meandered some, but is generally
within 1’ of the property line. The permit was approved, pending compliance with a 5’ side yard
setback, and provided options to apply for a Variance for a 0’ setback, or an Administrative
Variance for a 3’ setback. In June, the applicant installed the driveway with a 5’ setback, and
intends to widen it further, pending approval of this variance.
Analysis
Driveways shall have a minimum side yard setback of 5’.1 In 2009, as part of the Area A street
reconstruction project, the City installed a one-car wide driveway apron with a 3’ side yard
setback 2 to match that of the existing dirt driveway.
Administrative Variances may be “preliminarily” approved by the Community Development
Director, provided that the property is zoned R-1 or R-2, and (1) the variance to a setback is
within 25% of the minimum required, and not less than 5’ from a property line; or (2) is related to
a pre-existing, non-conforming driveway or curb cut. After an Administrative Variance is
preliminarily approved, the City shall notify adjacent property owners at least ten days prior to
the Planning Commission’s review of the Administrative Variance (no Public hearing is
required). If neighbors or the Planning Commission disagree with the Preliminary Approval,
then the request is denied, and the applicant may apply for a “formal” Variance request through
the normal public hearing process.3
1 City Code, Section 1104.01, Subd 4(b)1 (Driveways)
2 The applicant provided measurement, based on finding the SW property pin, and measuring where the NW pin
should be, adjacent to the driveway (NW pin not found).
3 City Code, Section 1125.02, Subd 6 (Administrative Variance Process)
Item 05B
Page 2 of 10
The criteria for granting a Variance, and Staff’s recommended Findings are included in the
Resolution. In summary, because the City installed a driveway apron with a 3’ setback, it is
reasonable that the new driveway match this setback.
Summary
The applicant has replaced a non-conforming dirt driveway with a 0’ side yard setback, with a
conforming concrete driveway with a 5’ setback, and has requested an Administrative Variance
to reduce the setback from 5’ to 3’. The Community Development Director has granted
Preliminary Approval of the request, subject to review by the Planning Commission, and notice
to the adjacent neighbors.
Notice was provided to the adjacent neighbors on June 28, 2019.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of Resolution 1103-19, Final Approval of an Administrative
Variance.
1. Approve Resolution 1103-19,a review of the Administrative Variance.
2. Deny the requested Administrative Variance. If the Commission chooses this option, the
Applicant has the option to apply for a standard Variance.
3. Table the request. If additional information is needed before a decision can be rendered or
if more discussion is needed, the Commission can simply move to table the request until
such information has been provided. Because of the 60-day requirements (Deadline:
August 16, 2019) the Commission would need to act upon the request as soon as
reasonably possible to avoid an inadvertent approval.
Respectfully submitted,
________________________
Jon Sevald, AICP
Community Development Director
Attachments
1. Applicant’s Narrative
2. Zoning Map
3. Aerial Map
4. Site Photos
5. Resolution 1103-19
Item 05B
Page 3 of 10
Applicant’s Narrative
Item 05B
Page 4 of 10
Zoning Map
Item 05B
Page 5 of 10
Aerial Photo
Item 05B
Page 6 of 10
Site Photos
8405 Red Oak Dr (Before). Spray paint (solid line) is approximate property line, with doted line 5’ setback, measured by applicant
(photo June 13, 2019)
8405 Red Oak Dr (After), with 5' side yard setback (Photo June 26, 2019).
Item 05B
Page 7 of 10
8405 Red Oak Dr, view of driveway/parking pad encroaching into 5' side yard setback (Photo June 26, 2019).
Item 05B
Page 8 of 10
MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 1103-19
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
A RESOLUTION REVIEWING THE APPROVAL OF AN ADMINISTRATIVE VARIANCE TO
REDUCE THE SIDE YARD SETBACK FROM 5’ TO 3’ FOR A DRIVEWAY ON PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 8405 RED OAK DRIVE
WHEREAS, the applicant, Tim Rodgers, is requesting an Administrative Variance to
reduce the side yard setback from 5’ to 3’ for a driveway on property located at 8405 Red Oak
Drive, legally described as:
PID: 06-30-23-12-0034
SUBJ TO RD & ESMTS & EX E 264 FT; THE N 81 FT OF S 2511
FT OF E 528 FT OF W 1056 FT OF NE 1/4 OF SEC 6 TN 30 RN
23
WHEREAS, the property is zoned R-1 Single Family Residential, and guided Single-
Family Detached in the Comprehensive Plan (2008); and,
WHEREAS, the Mounds View City Code, Section 1104.01, Subdivision 4(b)(1) states;
“Driveways shall have a minimum setback of five feet (5’) from any lot line”…; and,
WHEREAS, The Mounds View City Code, Section 1125.02, Subdivision 6 allows
property owners to request an Administrative Variance, provided that the property is zoned R-1
or R-2, and either of the following is applicable:
1. The request concerns setbacks; the variance amount is within twenty-five
percent (25%) of code requirements; and approval of the variance does not result
in a setback of less than five feet (5’);
2. The request is related to a pre-existing, non-conforming driveway or curb cut.
WHEREAS, the property is zoned R-1, and the request is related to a pre-existing, non-
conforming driveway. The applicant replaced a pre-existing dirt driveway that was non-
conforming because of its encroachment into the side yard setback, and because of its
unimproved material; and,
WHEREAS, the Community Development Director reviewed the request, comparing it to
the criteria for granting of a Variance, and provided notice of Preliminary Approval to adjacent
property owners; and,
Item 05B
Page 9 of 10
WHEREAS, City Code, Section 1125.02, Subd 2 establishes the following criteria for
granting a Variance (findings in italics):
a. The variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent of this Title.
Finding: The Variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the
City Code.
b. The variance is consistent with the comprehensive plan.
Finding: The property is guided “Single Family Detached” [Residential]. Driveways
are not specifically addressed by the Comprehensive Plan (2008). The
Variance relates to the following:
Residential
Goal 1: Preserve the identity and maintain and improve the quality
and appearance of existing neighborhoods.
Finding: The proposed driveway will improve the quality and
appearance of the neighborhood.
c. The applicant proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by
this Title or the City Code.
Finding: The proposed 3’ driveway setback is reasonable, and will match the
setback of the existing driveway apron.
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.
Finding: The pre-existing dirt driveway serviced the house, built in 1941. The
driveway was located adjacent to the north side yard property line. In
2009, the City installed a concrete driveway apron, with a 3’ side yard
setback with the intent of matching the existing (2009) driveway opening
while complying with City Code requirements as much as practical. The
Unique circumstance is the location of the pre-existing driveway (1941),
and the 3’ setback of the pre-existing (2009) driveway apron.
e. The variance does not alter the essential character of the neighborhood.
Finding: The Variance does not alter the essential character of the neighborhood.
f. The variance requested is the minimum variance which would alleviate the practical
difficulties. Economic conditions alone do not constitute practical difficulties.
Finding: The Variance request is the minimum variance, alleviating the practical
difficulties.
Item 05B
Page 10 of 10
g. The Board of Adjustment and Appeals 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.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Mounds View Planning and Zoning
Commission, based upon the above findings, the staff report, and in consideration of public
testimony, Agrees with the Administrative Approval of the Variance request to reduce the side
yard setback from 5’ to 3’, with the following conditions:
1. The property owner shall remove that portion of the driveway (near the garage) which
encroaches less than 3’ from the side yard property line, within 60 days (September 10,
2019).
Adopted this 10th day of July, 2019
______________________________
Gary Stevenson, Chair
Attest:
______________________________
Jon Sevald, Community Development Director
(Seal)
DRAFT
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MOUNDS VIEW PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
Regular Meeting
June 19, 2019
Mounds View City Hall
2401 Mounds View Boulevard, Mounds View, MN 55112
______________________________________________________________________________
1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Rundle at 7:00 p.m. for June 19, 2019.
______________________________________________________________________________
2. Roll Call
Members Present: Commissioners Farmer, French, Klander, Nelson, and Rundle.
Absent and Excused: Commissioners Monn and Stevenson.
Also Present: Community Development Director Jon Sevald.
______________________________________________________________________________
Index to Minutes Page
Resolution 1101-19, Approval of a Variance to Reduce Side Yard Setbacks 2
Resolution 1097-19, Recommending Approval of Ordinance 958 3
Resolution 1098-19, Recommending Approval of Ordinance 959 4
Resolution 1099-19, Recommending Approval of a Residential PUD and 4
Development Review for a Multi-Family Dwelling
Resolution 1100-19, Recommending Approval of the Preliminary Plat 6
Approval of Minutes 7
_____________________________________________________________________________
3. Special Order of Business
None.
Mounds View Planning Commission June 19, 2019
Regular Meeting Page 2
________________________________________________________________________
4. Citizens Requests and Comments on Items Not on the Agenda
None.
______________________________________________________________________________
5. Planning Cases
A. Resolution 1101-19, Approval of a Variance to Reduce the Side Yard Setback
for a Driveway for the property located at 2296 Terrace Drive (Planning
Case VR2019-002)
Community Development Director Sevald stated Ron O’Connell is proposing to replace his
driveway, widening it to an existing retaining wall. The backside of the wall is located on or
near the property line. The driveway would be set back about one foot, where as a minimum 5’
is required. He noted the neighbor was supportive of the requested variance. Staff provided
further comment on the request, recommended the Planning Commission hold a public hearing
and deny the variance as requested, or approve the requested one-foot setback.
Commissioner Nelson asked if there were any buildings adjacent to the property line. Ron
O’Connell, 2296 Terrace Drive, explained this property line had trees, bushes and shrubs.
Commissioner Nelson questioned if the retaining wall was located on the property line. Mr.
O’Connell reported the retaining wall was three or four feet off the property line.
Commissioner Klander asked if the City had setback requirements for retaining walls.
Community Development Director Sevald reported the City did not have any setback
requirements in place for retaining walls, and are reviewed on a case by case basis.
Vice Chair Rundle inquired if the applicant would be changing the driveway apron. Mr.
O’Connell explained he would not be altering the driveway apron.
Commissioner Farmer requested further information regarding the unique circumstances
surrounding this request. Community Development Director Sevald stated it was reasonable for
homeowners to have a two-car wide driveway that was 16 feet wide. He noted the applicant has
a paved 15-foot-wide driveway. He explained it was reasonable for the City to want to preserve
mature trees. He reported the City did not have the benefit of a survey for this property. He
commented on the right-of-way measurements that were completed when the road was
reconstructed. He anticipated the property line was along the back of the retaining wall.
Commissioner Farmer questioned why the City had setback requirements in place. Community
Development Director Sevald explained with driveways it was to provide a green strip between
driveways and the property line. He explained this portion of land was also to be used for snow
storage during the winter months. He stated he would like to see this driveway have a three-foot
Mounds View Planning Commission June 19, 2019
Regular Meeting Page 3
________________________________________________________________________
setback to have it line up with the driveway apron. However, he noted the applicant would have
to agree with this recommendation.
Vice Chair Rundle requested the applicant speak to the history of the driveway. Mr. O’Connell
discussed the history of his driveway and its location/placement.
Commissioner Nelson stated he did not object to the applicant running asphalt or concrete over a
space he was already using as a driveway. He supported the Planning Commission reviewing
driveway setbacks at a future meeting. Community Development Director Sevald reported this
could be done.
Vice Chair Rundle indicated Mr. O’Connell has had Class 5 beside his driveway for years and he
saw no reason why t he City could not approve a variance to reduce the side yard setback.
MOTION/SECOND: Commissioner Klander/Commissioner Nelson. To approve Resolution
1101-19, a Resolution Recommending Approval of a Variance to Reduce the Side Yard Setback
for a Driveway for the property located at 2296 Terrace Drive; Planning Case VR2019-002.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
_____________________________________________________________________________
B. Resolution 1097-19, Recommending Approval of Ordinance 958, an
Amendment to the Zoning Map Rezoning 2390, 2394 Mounds View
Boulevard and 2400 County Road H2 from B-3 Highway Business, to PUD
Planned Unit Development (Planning Case MU19-001)
Community Development Director Sevald explained INH Properties is proposing to develop a
128-unit apartment building at the south corner of Mounds View Boulevard and County Road
H2. The project involves multiple planning applications including a request to rezone the
applicable properties from B-3 Highway Business to PUD Planned Unit Development. Staff
provided further comment on the 128-unit apartment complex and recommended the Planning
Commission approve the rezoning as requested.
Commissioner Farmer asked when staff would have the narrative completed for this Planning
Case. Community Development Director Sevald reported he would have this completed prior to
the City Council reviewing this item.
MOTION/SECOND: Commissioner Farmer/Commissioner Klander. To approve Resolution
1097-19, a Resolution Recommending Approval of the Zoning Map Amendment; Planning Case
MU19-001.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Mounds View Planning Commission June 19, 2019
Regular Meeting Page 4
________________________________________________________________________
C. Resolution 1098-19, Recommending Approval of Ordinance 959, an
Amendment to City Code Section 1104.02 relating to Minimum Floor Area
per Dwelling Unit (Planning Case MU19-001)
Community Development Director Sevald stated INH Properties is proposing to develop a 128-
unit apartment building at the south corner of Mounds View Boulevard and County Road H2.
The project involves multiple planning applications including a request to amend the City Code
to allow Studio Apartments. He discussed the allowed square footage and the proposed change.
Staff provided further comment on the proposed City Code amendment with respect to minimum
floor area per dwelling unit and recommended the Planning Commission approve the Ordinance
amendment as requested.
Commissioner Nelson questioned how many of the units would be studio apartments. Jim Illies,
INH, explained there would be a mix of one bedroom and studio apartments and noted he was
proposing to have eight studio apartments. He commented some neighboring communities were
allowing studio apartments to be 450 square feet in size. He noted his studio apartments would
be 562 square feet in size.
Commissioner Farmer stated City Code does not recognize studio apartments at this time.
Community Development Director Sevald reported this was the case.
Commissioner Nelson asked if the City had any information from neighboring communities
regarding their studio apartment requirements. Community Development Director Sevald stated
he did not have this information.
Mr. Illies discussed a similar apartment in Blaine and noted its studio units were 450 square feet
in size. He discussed how modern apartment complexes were developing with smaller apartment
sizes due to the increased amenities being offered within the building.
MOTION/SECOND: Commissioner Rundle/Commissioner French. To approve Resolution
1098-19, a Resolution Recommending Approval of the City Code Amendment; Planning Case
No. MU19-001.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
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D. Resolution 1099-19, Recommending Approval of a Residential Planned Unit
Development and Development Review for a Multi-Family Dwelling to be
located at 2390, 2394 Mounds View Boulevard and 2400 County Road H2
(Planning Case MU19-001)
Community Development Director Sevald stated INH Properties is proposing to develop a 128-
unit apartment building at the south corner of Mounds View Boulevard and County Road H2.
The project involves multiple planning applications including a request for a CUP for a PUD,
and a Development Review. It was noted the Comprehensive Plan guides this property for
Mounds View Planning Commission June 19, 2019
Regular Meeting Page 5
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Mixed Use PUD. He discussed how the development would impact the School District and
noted the street closures that were being considered. Staff commented further on the proposed
PUD and recommended the Planning Commission approve the CUP and Development Review
as requested.
Corey Gerads, Alliance Building, discussed the shoebox lighting that would be installed within
the development. He explained the lighting could be adjusted to ensure there was not light
spilling form the property onto adjacent properties.
Community Development Director Sevald discussed a letter received from Planning
Commissioner Monn. He explained Commissioner Monn had concerns with the fact the
apartments were meeting the bare minimums. In addition, she was concerned with the fact this
project was not being developed as a mixed use development.
Commissioner Farmer explained a mixed use developments required population and occurs over
time. Community Development Director Sevald reported this was the case. He commented on a
few mixed use projects within first-ring suburbs, but that there are none along County Road 10,
from Mounds View until downtown Anoka.
Jim Illies commented on the modern amenities that would be provided within the apartment
complex, compared to those noted in Commissioner Monn’s letter. He explained most of his
renters prefer to have an outlet in their kitchen islands which means they could not be moveable.
He indicated a garden space was not being planned, nor was a pool. He reported a guest suite
was not being designated at this time, but could be considered in the future. He provided further
comment on the energy efficiency within the units. He discussed the keyless security system that
would be in place for the building.
Commissioner Nelson commented on the proposed parking spaces. He noted the applicant was
proposing to have 261 spaces when the City required 320. He asked if the property would have
adequate parking for tenants and guests. Community Development Director Sevald reviewed the
proposed parking within the development and noted there was also on-street parking available
adjacent to the apartment building.
Jim Illies reported he manages thousands of apartment units and noted the 2:1 parking ratio was
very common. He stated he did not anticipate this property would have any problems with
parking.
Commissioner Nelson asked if the property would have management available onsite. Jim Illies
reported this was the case, noting full time staff would be located in the building, along with a
full-time maintenance person.
Commissioner Nelson questioned how long the applicant would have to maintain the trees and
landscaping. Community Development Director Sevald reported the City would require the
applicant to maintain the trees and landscaping for the first year. Jim Illies explained he wanted
the site heavily landscaped.
Mounds View Planning Commission June 19, 2019
Regular Meeting Page 6
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Commissioner Nelson asked what the Fire Department had to say about the proposed
hammerhead. Community Development Director Sevald commented the Fire Department
supported the proposal.
Commissioner Nelson requested the applicant install a decorative dog fence and not a cyclone
fence. Mr. Illies stated he would agree to this.
MOTION/SECOND: Commissioner Rundle/Commissioner Farmer. To approve Resolution
1099-19, a Resolution Recommending Approval of the CUP and Development Review; Planning
Case No. MU19-001.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
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E. Resolution 1100-19, Recommending Approval of the Preliminary Plat of
Crossroad Pointe, a Major Subdivision, located at 2390, 2394 Mounds View
Boulevard, and 2400 County Road H2 (Planning Case MU19-001)
Community Development Director Sevald stated that INH Properties is proposing to develop a
128-unit apartment building at the south corner of Mounds View Boulevard and County Road
H2. The project involves multiple planning applications including a request for Preliminary Plat
approval. He noted this project consisted of three lots that would be combined into one lot. Staff
commented further on the Crossroad Pointe project and recommended that the Planning
Commission recommend approval of the Preliminary Plat.
MOTION/SECOND: Commissioner Nelson/Commissioner Klander. To approve Resolution
1100-19, a Resolution Recommending Approval of the Preliminary Plat; Planning Case No.
MU19-001.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
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6. Other Planning Activity
None.
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7. Reports
A. Upcoming Planning Cases & Activity
Community Dev elopment Director Sevald discussed upcoming planning cases that would be
reviewed by the Commission on July 10th.
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B. Staff Updates
Community Development Director Sevald provided the Commission with an update from staff
noting the Boulevard apartment complex was fully under construction. He commented the
Skyline Motel was purchased by the City for redevelopment. He anticipated this property would
be burned down in mid-July and would be redeveloped into a hotel.
C. Council Updates
None.
D. Planning Commissioner Reports
None.
8. Approval of Minutes
April 17, 2019.
MOTION/SECOND: Commissioner French/Commissioner Nelson. To approve the Minutes of
the April 17, 2019 regular Planning Commission meetings as slightly amended.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
9. Next Planning Commission Meeting:
A. Wednesday, July 10, 2019
B. Wednesday, July 17, 2019
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10. Adjournment
There being no further business before the Planning Commission, Vice Chair Rundle adjourned
the meeting at 8:36 p.m.
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Respectfully submitted,
Jon Sevald
Community Development Director
Transcribed by:
Heidi Guenther, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.