2017.03.23 PC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission March 23, 2017 Page 6 Juba stated that if the PUD and Preliminary Plat was approved by the Planning Commission, it would go to the April 17, 2017 City Council meeting where there would be revisions to the plan. Lisa Berggren, 5485 134th Street, stated that there is a significant buffer of trees within the City owned outlot that the Country Ponds neighborhood would like to keep as a buffer from the pond. Bear stated that when the concept plan was commented on in 2016, the developer proposed using the City outlot for stormwater ponding and park area. The City Commissions stated that they would be comfortable with a proposal that used the City outlot for these purposes. Bear stated that this plan is still a proposal and has not been approved yet. Lisa Berggren, 5485 134th Street, stated she would like to see the plans change to keep the tree buffer between the rear lot lines of the Country Ponds development and the pond. Cory Meyer, project manager with Westwood Professional Services, approached the podium. He stated that there is currently a 15 ft. buffer between the rear lot lines of Country Ponds and the pond and although trees are proposed to be removed for the construction of the pond, trees were to be planted within that area to recoup that buffer. Mr. Meyer stated if the Planning Commission recommended that the pond be pulled back and more of a buffer given to those property owners, Westwood and the developer would work to accomplish that. Bear stated that it would be helpful if the developer has an illustration showing the existing tree barrier being discussed and which ones are proposed to be removed. Larry Paist, 5465 134th Street approached the podium. He had concerns that the City was giving the developer too much flexibility and also requested a larger buffer between the existing properties and the pond. Lisa Berggren, 5485 134th Street, again stated she would like to see the plans change to keep the tree buffer between the rear lot lines of the Country Ponds development and the pond. Chair Kleissler closed the public hearing at 9:21 p.m. Commissioner Rosenquist stated that traffic has been a major concern discussed. He believed that although MnDot stated that no improvements to TH 61 were needed currently, the City should begin evaluating and having conversations regarding the timing of those improvements. Rosenquist also stated that he believes the developer should look at the buffer between the rear property lines and the pond and trying to keep the tree buffer. Commissioner Tjernlund requested that the developer explain what they are giving to the City that exceeds standards in return for the PUD. Commissioner McRoberts stated that he really likes the plan in regards to the ponding, arrangement of housing, creative design, and water re-use. He voiced concerns about the higher density home product being located on the corner of TH 61 and 130th Street. He also questioned if the developer was giving enough back to the City in return for the PUD and use of the outlot.