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Page 3 During the previous sketch plan review processes, the City discussed the importance of access to Highway 61 with the development and determining the proper intersection design. The City also encouraged the preservation of the natural resources, including a portion of the stand of trees on the southern area of the project. It is in staff’s opinion that the applicant has done a good job addressing the comments and concerns from the proposed sketch plan of the City Council, Commissions, and residents. B. Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) Due to the size of the project, the previous applicant was required to complete an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) for the proposed development on this site. The purpose of the EAW is to identify potential environmental impacts for a specific development and to determine whether or not a more extensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is required. Environmental impacts include impacts to surface waters, natural areas, utilities, transportation systems, historic sites, noise impacts, etc. The EAW for the proposed development of this site was completed in February 2006 and distributed to various agencies for public comment. The City Council reviewed the EAW and the comments received at their May 1, 2006 meeting and determined that an EIS was not needed for the project. Since this plan is similar, but smaller, a new EAW will not be required. However, as this project progresses, staff will need to ensure that the assumptions of the EAW are still valid. 3. CONTEXT: A. Surrounding land Use and Zoning The properties to the north is zoned General Commercial (COM), Single Family Detached Residential (R-3), and Future Urban Service (FUS) and guided as Commercial (COM) and Low Density Residential (LD) in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The parcels are vacant. The property to the east is Oneka Lake. The properties to the south are zoned Single Family Detached Residential (R-3) and are guided Low Density Residential (LD) in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The residential development to the south is the Oneka Ponds development. The properties to the west are zoned General Commercial (C-2) and are guided Commercial (COM). The uses to the west are mostly industrial type uses, with some commercial uses. B. Natural Characteristics of Site The properties are currently vacant and do contain some challenges regarding an existing wetlands, drainage ditch, floodplain, and high ground water. The properties are relatively flat with approximately 26 acres of wetlands.