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September 22, 2022 PC Minutes <br />Page 5 <br /> <br /> <br />Mr. Houle responded to the public’s concerns, stating that it is difficult to find a solution that <br />minimizes impacts, and that it is difficult to please everyone with a project. Mr. Haller also responded <br />to the public’s concerns, stating that the team worked with staff to fi nd other entrance options, but <br />ultimately the proposed access point on Flay Avenue was the safest from a traffic engineering <br />standpoint. <br /> <br />No one else spoke. <br /> <br />Chair Kleissler closed the Public Hearing at 7:32 PM. <br /> <br />Commissioner Lessard asked about whether an entrance onto 147th Street would create issues with <br />pedestrian traffic using the city trail. Lessard states that he understands the concern with the entrance <br />on Flay Avenue, but does not see a better option. Commissioner Arcand added that an access point <br />onto 147th Street might make the existing traffic to and from Subway worse. <br />Juba adds that there is not a great option to access this site in particular, and that staff is comfortable <br />with the proposed location since it is best from a traffic standpoint. Juba states that Subway’s access <br />onto 147th Street was due to their inability to receive a permit from MnDOT to access Highway 61, and <br />that the current access point is not ideal. <br />Chair Kleissler asks about the small bend in the direction of 147 th Street and whether its straightening <br />has been considered. Juba states that the bend was evaluated, but the city needs to ensure that lines <br />are perpendicular with the other side of the intersection. <br />Commissioner Andress asks whether the vehicle stacking issue is of great concern, and whether an <br />overflow situation would be likely. Juba responds that banks have been given stacking flexibility in the <br />past as part of a Planned Unit Development. <br />Commissioner Arcand states that 3 out of the 4 corners of the intersection with Highway 61 and 147th <br />Street are occupied by commercial uses, and that placing a commercial use on the proposed location <br />would complete the intersection. Arcand also states that the design of the building is residential in <br />nature, creating a good transition to the neighborhood along Flay Avenue. Arcand asks about the <br />gateway elements that would need to be provided, and Juba states that staff will work with the <br />applicant on the details, including that encroachment on the Washington County Regional Rail <br />Authority right-of-way may be needed. <br />Commissioner Andress asks about the bank’s hours of operations. Mr. Houle responds that the bank <br />will not be open on Saturday, and highlights the shift toward digital banking meaning fewer vehicle <br />trips to the bank in-person. <br />Commissioner Arcand asks if the applicant knows who their second tenant will be, which they do not.