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Planning Commission Meeting Minutes July 15, 2003 Page 15 that he would look into the idling issue and update the Commission. Chief Hewitt explained that 2 there are times when the fire motor operators take the apparatus out to check their equipment. 3 He further explained that due to the inadequate space they would sometimes take the trucks 4 outside to idle during the winter months in order to ensure proper flow of water through the 5 apparatus. 6 7 Vice Chair Stille asked Chief Hewitt to comment on the adjacent property values. Chief Hewitt 8 stated that the Hennepin County Assessor clarified that they have not seen a decrease in property 9 values due to the location of a fire station. He stated that they have also held discussions with an 10 appraisal/realtor, noting that many residents do not mind as it adds a feeling of safety. 11 12 Chair Melsha closed public hearing at 10:20 p.m. 13 14 Chair Melsha acknowledged the noise concerns stating also that he is not too concerned with the 15 conditions as it is the City who is requesting the permit and City Council would be monitoring 16 the progress very closely. Commissioner Tillman suggested outlining the expectations for the 17 residents with respect to lighting, building appearance and noise policies so that the residents 18 would know what to expect. 19 20 Commissioner Hoska referenced the noise issues stating that he grew up two blocks from a fire 21 station. He stated that knowing the fire station was so close gave a very comforting and safe feeling. He assured the Commission that the Fire Department would be very conscientious of the noise levels and agreed that there is no need to add restrictions or conditions. He confirmed 24 that sirens are not used at night unless they absolutely have to. Chair Melsha clarified that they 25 could suggest an expectation noting that the conditions would never be legally enforced. 26 27 Commissioner Tillman stated that she would welcome the Fire Department if they could come 28 forward and provide a list of options that would address the noise issues. She stated that she 29 would like to see conditions included that would address the lighting and ensure that there would 30 be no spillage outside of the property area. 31 32 Motion by Commissioner Tillman, seconded by Commissioner Stromgren, to recommend 33 approval of a conditional use permit for a proposed fire station, which is located in a R-1 single- 34 family zoning district. With the following conditions: 1. lighting be contained to the property 35 and minimal spillage outside of property; 2. there be an informational listing that identifies what 36 the Fire Department plans to do to minimize noise levels; 3. put together a plan for the front of 37 the building with respect to landscaping and design; 4. recommend Plan B with the square roof 38 design; 5. request to investigate further development of the west fagade. 39 40 Motion carried unanimously 41 42 Motion by Commissioner Stromgren, seconded by Commissioner Hoska, to recommend 43 approval of one front yard setback variance of 11 feet for a proposed setback of 19 feet based on the desire and city's interest to preserve the trees along property line that borders Central Park. AD Also, this recognizes concern regarding depth and increasing the slope along the east side would 46 cause additional hardship.