2017.10.12 PC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission October 12, 2017 Page 3 Commissioner Arcand asked if the existing park south of the proposed development had the facilities to handle the size of the proposed new development. Juba stated that its in staff’s opinion that the park can adequately serve this development, however, the concept plan will go to the Parks Commission next Wednesday for their review and comments. Commissioner Tjernlund asked staff to explain the incorporation of commercial uses into this development. Juba stated that the applicant needs to consider and plan the commercial uses around the project. For example, there is a commercial business with a building directly south of the proposed access to the development. It is important to make sure the business can function properly, has proper access, still has the ability for vehicle circulation, etc. Chair Kleissler asked the applicant if they would like to speak. Danny Lincoln, Developer, and Richard Wilburn, Project Engineer, approached the podium. Mr. Wilburn stated that he would like to discuss a couple points brought up in the presentation. He described that only the villa products will be slab on grade, while the rest of the products, including the townhomes, will have basements. He stated that they are currently proposing 256 units (including 76 villas, 136 single family, and 44 townhomes). Mr. Wilburn described the challenges of the site including 25 acres of wetlands, a ditch crossing the property, Oneka Lake, high ground water, and an Xcel Energy transmission line bisecting the property. Mr. Wilburn discussed that they are currently working with MnDOT on the intersection and access into the development to ensure it is successful and functions properly. He discussed the layout of the roads within the development and stressed the importance of the main north and south connector road. Commissioner Tjernlund asked the applicant what they are proposing for park dedication. Mr. Wilburn stated that they will be asking the Parks Commission to consider providing credit for the trail along the wetlands on the south and east portions of the property, as well as consider some of the smaller high land areas. He stated the rest of park dedication would be made up in cash dedication. Mr. Lincoln stated that they will be looking at using stormwater reuse for the development. He also described working with the commercial property owner to purchase property to better accommodate access into the development. He stated his efforts were not successful so they are now planning the best traffic control design with the current building/parcel continuing its present use. Mr. Wilburn discussed the roundabout. He stated the roundabout design helps with the access issues, since the commercial piece of property’s driveway is directly across from 159th Street. He stated that the they want to make sure the roundabout still functions properly when the parcels around the development and along TH 61 develop in the future. Commissioner Arcand asked staff how much input the City can put in about the traffic control design. Juba stated that the City has been helping facilitate the conversation, but ultimately MnDOT will be approving the traffic control design and installation. Arcand asked the applicant if MnDOT has reviewed the currently proposed roundabout design.