2016.01.14 PC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commissioner Patzner stated that the ordinance reads that if the property transfers, they could transfer the permit if the solar farm remains intact and operable. She wondered if it would be beneficial to clarify that the next user has to put in that same financial security for the removal by the City after that 90 day period. Juba stated that staff can take a look at that. She stated that within the interim use permit section, it says in case of transfer, the new owner would have to post a financial security before the permit is actually transferred. She stated that staff can look at that section and see if it would be beneficial to add something along the lines of, "the new owner must meet all requirements within the interim use section upon transfer." Commissioner Rosenquist made a comment that staff did have the City Attorney review the ordinance. Chair Kleissler opened the public hearing at 7:32 p.m. No one from the audience stepped forward. Chair Kleissler closed the public hearing at 7:33 p.m. Commissioner Rosenquist made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Arcand, to recommend approval of the solar energy systems ordinance, with the stipulation that all comments made from the Planning Commission be reviewed prior to the City Council meeting. All Ayes, Motion carried. Discussion on Met Council System Statement Juba stated that the Metropolitan Council has completed the system statements for every community in the seven -county metropolitan area within the Metropolitan Council's jurisdiction. The system statement is a customized document informing each community how it is affected by the Metropolitan Council's policy plans for regional systems: transportation, aviation, water resources, and regional parks and open space. This document is required by state law and intended to help communities review and, if necessary, amend their local comprehensive plans. This plan will guide growth in the City through the year 2040. Juba explained the City has 60 days to review the system statement and there is an appeal process, if deemed necessary. She talked about the land use categories designated for the City of Hugo and explained the new category, Emerging Suburban Edge, for the western half of the City, which is currently in the Metropolitan Urban Service Area (MUSA) and will be expected to develop at three to five units per acre. The eastern half of Hugo is in a Diversified Rural category with a density of at four units per 40 acres. Juba explained the system statement estimates Hugo's population to be at 29,000 by 2040. This estimate is down from past estimate of 40,000 by the year 2030, and the Met Council had already guaranteed service capacity for this. Also a big discussion at the Met Council is the creation of a hosing policy outlining goals for affordable housing. The goal set for Hugo is to provide for 834 total units of affordable housing between 2020 and 2030. These goals are tied into livable community funding and transportation funding. Juba also talked about the transportation map and significant changes in the long term sewer service area map, which now shows the eastern portion of Hugo not in the sewer service area. Juba explained that staff does not see significant revisions being made to the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. Forecasts are lower than they were 10 years ago, affordable housing will be a challenge, and eastern Hugo will be a significant discussion since it is no longer inside the long-term sewer service area. She stated that staff will prepare a work plan early next year for the Comprehensive Plan update process.