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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-01-26 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Regular MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE EDINA PLANNING COMMISISON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2005: 7:00 PM EDINA CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 4801 WEST 50TH STREET DRAFT   MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair, David Byron, Michael Fischer, John Lonsbury, Helen McClelland, Geof Workinger and Michael Schroeder MEMBERS ABSENT: David Runyan and Stephen Brown STAFF PRESENT: Craig Larsen and Jackie Hoogenakker APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: The minutes of the December 1, 2004, meeting were filed with corrections. NEW BUSINESS: Chair Byron welcomed the newest member to the Commission, Mr. Michael Schroeder. Mr. Schroeder thanked Chair Bryon and Commissioners for their warm welcome and informed them he looks forward to working with them. P-05-1 Frauenshuh Companies 7700 France Avenue Final Development Plan Mr. Larsen informed the board the proponent is requesting Final Development Plan approval to construct a freestanding building in the southeasterly portion of the site. Mr. Larsen explained the subject property was originally developed as headquarters for National Car Rental. In 2000 the building was sold to the current owner, and is presently a multi-tenant office building. The request proposes a new, freestanding 7,000 square foot building near the intersection of Minnesota Drive and France Avenue. The new building would occupy an area now used for surface parking. The plans also suggest a second building pad in the northeasterly portion of the site. This pad is not part of the current proposal, and would be subject to review a some future date. Mr. Larsen pointed out the City did grant a parking variance in connection with the original development of this site. The Proof of Parking agreement associated with that variance was released in 1983. The property is now subject to normal zoning requirements of the POD-2 District. Mr. Larsen told the Commission in 1994 Minnesota Drive, which borders the south side of the site, was built as a joint venture with the City of Bloomington. Bloomington handled the construction, and Edina shared in the cost. Mr. Larsen noted a review of records indicates that no easement was provided for the “free right” turn lane at the northwest corner of Minnesota and France. The owners have agreed to now dedicate the necessary right of way. This dedication will require that the new building be moved to the north to meet setback requirements. Mr. Larsen said the proposed plans comply with all Zoning Ordinance standards except for the building setback. Staff recommends moving the new building north to meet the required setbacks. Moving the proposed building north will result in the loss of a few parking spaces, but will not affect total parking or the adequacy of convenient parking for the new building. Mr. Larsen concluded staff recommends approval of the proposed Final Development Plan subject to: Dedication of Right of Way for existing turn lane. Watershed District permits. Adjustment of building pad to comply with setback requirements from new right of way. Mr. John Donnelly and Mr. Eric Reiners were present representing Frauenshuh Companies. Mr. Donnelly addressed the Commission and told them as indicated in the revised plan before them the building pad of the new building has been moved to comply with setback requirements from the new right of way. Mr. Donnelly introduced Mr. Eric Reiners to the Commission. Mr. Reiners told the Commission at present an engineer is working on an exact description for the adjusted right of way line, adding it is hoped that is completed by the time this goes before City Council. Continuing, Mr. Reiners told the Commission exterior building materials for the new building have been slightly modified with the entrance to the building remaining on the north end. Mr. Reiners noted the roof top equipment would now be placed on grade screened by an enclosure that meets code requirements. Chair Byron questioned if in the future the owner(s) decide to subdivide the lot creating separate parcels would the new lot/building have the ability to “stand-alone” as it relates to code. Mr. Larsen responded if subdivided the “new lot” would have to meet all requirements. He added the size of this site would in all probability make that possible. Commissioner Fischer questioned where trash would be stored and where deliveries would occur. Mr. Reiners explained the proposed use of the new building is not a “cash institution” with walk up brokerage. Any deliveries would be minimal. Continuing, Mr. Reiners said the trash area is located adjacent to the loading dock with all maintenance for this building tied to the entire site. Commissioner Lonsbury observed signage doesn’t seem to be addressed and asked if signage has been considered for the new building. Mr. Reiners responded signage is being considered to the best of his knowledge there will be no signage along France Avenue. Signage is proposed over the north door and the southwest side of the building. Commissioner Lonsbury asked if it is important that the indicated corporate logo is incorporated into the buildings signage. Mr. Reiners responded he believes the logo would be an important element, adding at this time a signage package has not been finalized. Mr. Larsen told the Commission signage is not part of this process; however, a sign permit(s) is required to ensure compliance with the City’s sign ordinance. Commissioner McClelland moved to recommend Final Development Plan approval subject to; dedication of right of way for the turn lane, Watershed District permits, adjustment of building pad to comply with setback requirements, noting signage will be addressed at a later date. Commissioner Losnbury seconded the motion. All voted aye; motion carried. Chair Byron suggested to the proponents that all “loose ends” be resolved by the time this is heard by the City Council. OTHER BUSINESS: Mr. Larsen informed the Commission the Court has rendered a decision with regard to Pedersen v. City of Edina. The Court upheld Mr. Pedersen’s right to subdivide his property (6800 Indian Hills Road) and also ruled the City’s Subdivision Ordinance is not unconstitutional. Mr. Larsen said the City is waiting for clarification from the judge on how the rulings in favor of Mr. Pedersen impact the present subdivision moratorium. Mr. Larsen said at this time it is unclear if the moratorium was considered invalid only with regard to Mr. Pedersen’s petition or if the ruling of the Court applies citywide. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM _________________ _____ Jackie Hoogenakker