PL MINUTES 03161976 (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 2 The Chairman acknowledged the presence of about a dozen interested neighbors and told them that though the meeting was not a public hearing as such, their comments would be taken. Among those who addressed the subject were John Bednarz, 3246 Stinson Boulevard, who said although he lives across the street in Minneapolis, he shared the sentiments of the others, many of whom were St. Anthony residents of from 15 to 33 years, in opposing the gas pumps. He told of their additional concerns about the addition of another gas dispensing operation because of the problem with all night lighting, congregation of young people late at night and the squealing of tires at the Clark Station on the northeast corner of the same intersection. He speculated about the adverse effects these had on family life and property values in the area and suggested that Minneapolis Alderman Sam Sivanich would be able to verify the problems with the Clark Station, perhaps making it easier for the Board to judge whether a similar operation was advisable. Mr. Hiebel told him that the proposal seemed permissible under the present zoning of the property which had been zoned commercial since 1962. When Mr. Bednarz wondered whether the sentiments of the residents would be taken into consideration by the Board, Mr. Johnson assured him that City officials welcome imput from the residents and all meetings of city officials are open to the public. He said he felt the real point of the discussion was whether the proposal constituted a proper land use and was compatible with other land uses in the neighborhood. Mr. Schroeder pointed out that the present Jiffy Market had been under the same management for 10 years and there was no reason to believe the new operation would be conducted in any less responsible manner. Mr. Bednarz said the market had been a great convenience for the neighbors and he felt the new store would be welcomed provided it wasn't built too close to the adjacent residence. Mr. Kenneth Otto, 3245 Stinson Boulevard, lives just south of the present Jiffy Market and said although he felt a new improved store was needed, he was opposed to the addition of gas pumps to the proposal. He felt the traffic problems now experienced at that corner would be increased and said that there are many times when the driveway is blocked by the parked cars of customers of the store. He also mentioned several accidents which had been the result of improper parking in front of the market. Mr. Otto also questioned whether the proposed screening of his property would be adequate to buffer the area lighting and late evening noise which he felt would be associated with a gas dispensing operation, especially since his home is at a higher level than the Schroeder property. He also wondered how safe his home would be from fire and explosions with the gas pumps so close to his property and what effect their l presence might have on the insurance rates for nearby residences.