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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1971 05-05 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes RegularMINUTE'S OF 111E REGULAR MEETING OF THE EDINA PLANNING COMISSION FIELD WEDNESDAY, MAY 5, 1971 EDINA VILLAGE MALL Members Present: Mr. W. W. Lewis, Chairman, Air. S. P. Hughes, Mr. D. T. Rvnyan, Mr. R. A. IIuelster, Mr. C. E. Johnson, Mr. D. C. Sherman, and Mr. G. V. Johnson Staff Present: G. Luce and L. Nye. I. Apt oval of the March 3. 1971, Planning Cormmission Minutes. Air. Hughes moved that the March 3, 1971, Planning Commission Minutes be approved as submitted. Mr. Runyan seconded the motion. All Voted Aye. Motion Carried. II. SOUTIM-ST EDINA PLAN — STATUS REPORT. Air. Luce indicated that the Village Council has rejected the plan proposed at the May 3, 1971, Council meeting, noting that the controversial area again involves the properties located between Cahill Read and the Dewey Hill Road extensions. Ile added that the residents opposed the density of. 12+ units per acre in that area with 12 units per acre credit for the park. Air. Luce stated that the Council has requested he hold a meeting with.a committee of residents, developers, and property owners, to attempt to reach a ccnpromise regarding the proposed multiple area. Mr. Luce stated that said meeting has been scheduled for May 24, 1971, at 7:30 P.At. No discussion following;, the matter was continued to the June 2, 1971, Planning Commission meeting,, No action was taken. III. LOT DIVISIONS: LD -71-4 Margaret M. Willes. 5540 Dundee Road. Mr. Luce recalled that the proposed lot division was before the Planning Commission in March and April, and, as requested at the April meeting, has been heard by the Traffic Safety Committee. Ile stated that the recommendation of the committee was to approve the curb cut onto Vernon Avenue, as there is no history of accidents at that location. Air. Luce stated that the lot to be created would be in accordance with the criteria for a single family lora In reply to Mr, Runyan, Mr_ Luce stated that a house is presently existing on the east half of the lot, however, sewer and water will have to be provided by an easement across the lot. Following further discussion, Mr. Huelster mored that the lot division be approved, provided utility easements are provided to the lot �o be created. Mr. G. Johnson seconded the notion., All Voted Aye. Motion Carried. Edina Planning Commission --2- May 5, 1971 IV. RzEZONINGS: 74-71-6 Folke R. Victorsen. R-1 to PRD -2. tiro Luce recalled that this request has been continued from the April meeting„ lie stated that the staff again recommends approval of the townhouse concept and rezoning, provided additional data is submitted in accordance with Section 5, Paragraph 8, of Ordinance No. 811, and provided that the land abutting the lake is included in an open space easement Mr,, Keith Waters of Brauer and Associates stated that the proposal is essentially as presented at the April meeting. In reply to the reservations expressed at that time, Mr. Waters stated that they would be agreeable to any standards within reason that the Arrowhead homeowners Association would apply to the usage of the lake, that Mr. Murphy has been contacted, and that thus far they have not been invited to talk with the Indian Bills homeowners associations, lie stated that Mr. Victorsen has been unable to purchase the church property to the north, and added that they have no objection to providing a public and scenic easement around the lake if it provides better protection for the residents, Mr. .dames Larkin, attorney representing a group of homeowners in the area, requested the item be continued, as Mr. Carl. Dale, a planner, has been hired by the residents to study the proposed development and the site, and to present alternatives that the residents agree are feasible, Following further discussion, Mr. Hughes moved that the Victorsen request be continued to the dune 2, 1971, agenda, at which time Mr. Dale's presentation will be considered. Mr„ lluelster seconded the motion, All doted Aye. Motion Carried. Z-71-7 Kremer Corporation. R-1 to PRD --2. Mr. Luca: indicated that the proposed rezoning has been continued from the, March and April meetings. Ile stated that since that time the Nine Mile Creek Watershed District has approved a setback variance to permit construction up to 50 feet from the creek. He stated that the staff recommends :approval of the concept and the rezoning, subject to the approval of the necessary variances by the Edina Board of Appeals and Adjustments, as the development provides an excellent buffer between the industrial zoning and the proposed single family zoning to the east, and it preserves the vegetation due to the clustering, of homes, as provided in the Western Edina Plan. Mr, Richard E. Kremer and Mr:, Dave Bennett, of Myers of Bennett, architect for the project, reviewed the slide presentation and the proposed development as presented at the April meeting. Mr. Kremer, in reply to a :request by Mr. Edward Powers of 5500 Parkwood Lane, stated that he does not feel that hoer he arrived at a sales figure of $40,000 per unit is pertinent at thi€t time. Mr. Bennett clarified that they are proposing single family homes and added that the only difference is there is no side yard separating the buildings, as the side yards necessary would have destroyed the site. Edina Planning Commission ®3- May 5, 1971 In general, the objections of the residents present were: 1.. the proposed development would destroy the single family character of the area; 2. the traffic pattern would be substantially altered and traffic would be greatly increased; 3. the proposed development would destroy the existing wildlife on the site; and 4. they dislike the design of the units. However, there were several persons present who expressed approval of the quality, design, and layout of the project. Mr. Hughes stated that the same square footage (1,500 square feet) would be more favorable in a two bedroom unit rather than the proposed three bedroom unit. Following further discussion, Mr. Hughes moved that the concept of attached single family dwellings and the rezoning request from R-1 to PRD -2 be approved, subject to the dedication of 150 feet on the west side and 50 feet on the east side of Nine Mile Creek, if a 50 foot variance is approved by the Edina Board of Appeals. Mr. Huelster seconded the motion. All Voted Aye, Motion Carried. 2471-4 Joseph E. Erickson. C-3 to PRD -5. Mr. Luce reviewed that the property in question is located north and east of Valley View Road, west of France Avenue, and south of the existing Edina Realty building. He stated that the request is for rezoning from C-3 to PRD -5 to permit construction of a 16 story apartment building, and noted that a setback variance would be required on the north side of the building. Mr. Howard Dahlgren of Midwest Planning and Research indicated that this proposal differs greatly from the earlier proposal in that the number of units and the size of the building have been reduced and all commercial activity on the ground floor has been eliminatedo He stated that the site is 8.41 acres, which includes the ponding area (the heating and cooling system for Southdale); 3.53 acres would be the actual usable portion of the property, the principle access being from France Avenue. Mr. Dahlgren indicated that a market analysis done for Mr. Erickson found that there is a considerable market for luxury type apartments in Edina. He added that the features people look for in this market are all being proposed; i.e., solarium balconies, central air conditioning, maid service, fireplaces, etc. Regarding the parking area, Mr. Dahlgren stated that 1 1/2 spaces will be provided underground per unit. He noted that 195 apartment units are proposed, thus 397 spaces will be provided; 299 will be underground, and 98 will be on the surface© Ile stated that they will conform to the ordinance in every way, with the exception of the building setback from the north property line. Ile clarified that the variance request will be for a reduced setback (to 35 feet) from commercial property (Edina Realty) and added that it is 464 feet from the corner of the building to the nearest single family lot. Mr. Dahlgren clarified that'the building will be 16 stories high, or a total of 161 feet, He noted that a one -bedroom unit will rent for $275$300, a two-bedroom unit will be $350-$385, and a three-bedroom unit will be $525-$675 per month. He also discussed the value of the property and the existing and proposed tax value. Edina Planning Cormmission May 5, 1971 Messrs, M. D„ Campbell of 6700 Point Drive, M, J. Lau Drive, J, L,, Mortison of 6808 .;outhdale gond, and many others development because the value of their homes would be greatly would be set for the surrounding areas, and the increase in will create serious traffic conditions. b of 6613 Cornelia opposed the proposed decreased, a precedent population density In reply to Mr,; Runyan, Mr. Dahlgren stated that the floor area ratio for one floor is 18„288 square feet. The Planning 0:ommission generally agreed that the proposed structure is too high, too imposing; for the site, and out of keeping with the buildings to the north. Following further disc,assion, Mr. Huelster moved that the requested rezoning from C=3 to PRDr 5 bre denied. Mr., Hughes seconded the motion, All Voted Aye,, Motion Carried, V, ORDINANCES: 1„ Planned Industrial District - Amendment to add "tennis courts” to the list offpermitted uses, Mr, Luce stated that the Planned Industrial District ordinance presently allows handball courts, and indicated that Indoor Tennis International is requesting an amendment to the ordinance to add "tennis courts" to the list of permitted uses in that district He noted that the staff recommends approval of the request, Mr„ Loren Galpin of Midwest Planning and Research stated that Indoor Tennis International is proposing an indoor tennis club to be located on a 3,.25 acre tract on Bush Lake Roach, wear the cul-de-sac just southwest of the Thiele Engineering building. He noted that a small "pro shop" selling small tennis items is also planned,, In reply to Mr. Runyan, Mr. Galpin stated that the buildings are planned for the permanent use of Indoor Tennis International, adding that they have always had full membership and have never had to transfer the use of a building., In reply to Mr, Lewin Mr. Luce stated that the parking required would probably be six spaces per court;, as presently required for handball courts.., Following further discussion, Mrs.; Runyan moved that the Planned Industrial District ordinance amendment be approved, and Mr,, G. Johnson seconded the motion, All Voted Aye. Motion Carried, 2, Ordi-dance requiring a hoEd , letter of credit. or certified check -i for Zanc�scaping. Mr. Luce stated that the proposed ordinance would assure the Village that the landscaping as shown on development plans is developed as such and remains for a period of two years,,, lie add4d that the Park Department would probably establish the cost, The Planning Commissiosa generally agreed that said ordinance would appear necessary, however, the written ordinance in final form should be presented for approval. No further ,action taken. Edina Planning Commission ,.r5- May 5, 1971 3„ Parking Requirements for convalescent homes and nursing_homes. Mr. Luce stated that the proposed ordinance was suggested by the Village Attorney, who feels that parking requirements should be established for this type of use. He stated that one parking space per employee, company vehicle, and per each six patients would appear reasonable. The Planning Commission questioned the airaount of control available, and following further discussion, instructed the staff to compare parking requirements with other communities, and requested consideration of the final ordinance in written form. No other action taken. 4. Treehouse and Playhouse Ordinance. Mr. Luce recalled that the Village recently had several complaints and inquiries regarding play structures,, He noted that an ordinance of some type should be written to establish scaaae control of aesthetics and safety, Follawing further discussion, the Planning Commission generally agreed that an ordinance restricting playhouse construction would not appear necessary. No action was taken. VI. OTHER BUSINESS: 1. Poppler, Cardarelle Inc. Smisek Property. Plan Review, (Z-70-14) Mx. Luce briefly reviewed the location of the proposal and indicated that the request is for review purposes only. Mr. Frank Cardarelle recalled the various proposals for the Smisek property as previously presented to the Planning Commission and requested some direction. Mr. Hughes recalled that the Council has indicated that the property owners, developers, and residents should meet to attempt to resolve their differences, adding that the Planning Commission is under the direction of the Council, Mr. Bill Rose clarified that soil tests on the property have varied from 10 to 35 feet without "finding any bottom",. He retailed that they are proposing a total of 237 units. Mr. Runyan stated that he would favor a plan with a more residential character, as he does not favor the flat top, typical apartment type roof and the length of the buildings, even :hough they are varied in elevation. The Planning Commission generally agreed. Mr. Cardarelle answered that they are attempting to keep the height of the buildings to a minimum. No action x -.-,as taken, pending approval o_' the Southwest Edina Plana P^ Edina Planning ComUss-icn -`- I -lay 5, 1971 Mr. Seneca Seaman, Hennepin County architect, indicated that the building pians have not been changed since the April meeting. He stated that a right-of-way along York and Xerxes Avenues will be provided, and space will be reserved along West 70th Street in case an easement: is required. He stated that after space is provided for easements, the building, and parking, a small portion only is reserved for future expansion, adding that of the original nine acres, 1.8 acres are needed for setbacks and easements, leaving a net buildab'.e site of 7.3 acres. He recalled that a 5.8 acre site is required, leaving about 1.5 acres for expansion„ Mr. Seaman stated that although they are not yet aware of the required parking, they have reserved land for 284 parking spaces. He reviewed that the building area will be about 260,000 square feet, and 400 square feet will be leased for sales area to one of the Southdale area bookstores. He noted that this will be a conven- ience type of thing and not a commercial venture. It was stipulated that no out- side advertising would be permitted, He stated that the library will be open seven days a week. In reply to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Seaman stated that one car per 2 1®2 people that can be seated in the library would appear to be adequate. Mr. Hughes expressed concern regarding the resmlting traffic pattern in this area. The `Planning Commission generally agreed. The Planning Commission generally agreed that the proposed library, although not within the literal interpretation of the comprehensive plan, would be accept- able in the proposed location. Mr. Runyan moved that the Southeast Edina Plan Study be amended to include the Hennepin County South Area Reference Library, and that, in accordance with state statutes, the decision of the Planning Commission be transmitted to the Cour.cil by the staff within 45 days. Air. C. .Johnson seconded the motion. All Voted Aye. Motion Carried. 5, Western Edina Plan Amendment - County Roar. 18 Frontage Road Alignment. Mr. Luce recalled that the frontage road from Gleason Road to Fabri-Tek had originally been proposed as an attached frontage road, but was changed to a detached road (around the east side of Fabri-eek), at the request of Mr" Robert Hanson and Brauer and Associates. He stated that the property owners, Fabri-Tek in particular, have now requested that it again be proposed as an attached frontage road, parallelling the Crosst-own Highway and County Road 18, and following the west Fabri=Tek line. Mr. Hughes moved that the Western Edina Plan be amended to allow an attached frontage road, as originally proposed, essentially the same: as the existing Roushar Road. Mr. C. ,Johnson seconded the motion. All Voted Aye,; Motion Carried. Respectfully submitted, L7nnae Nye, Secretary Edina Planning Commission ---6- May S, 1971 2; Da ton Hudson Properties� Daytan's Gasoline FacilitY,.in Southdale Shopping Center narking lot. (Planned Commercial District) . =-_r Mr, Luce stated that Dayton Hudson Properties is requesting approval of a proposed gasoline station in the Southdale Shopping Center parking lot. He stated that due to the Penney's expansion and the current request for a gasoline station, he would recommend that a meeting be held with Dayton's to review their long range development plans for the Southdale area. Mr. Bob McHale, manager of Southdale Shopping Center., clarified that they are requesting a gasoline dispensing facility, as the facility will not offer any other services such as small repairs or parts. In reply to Mr,, Huelste:r, Mrs, ElcHale stated that the facility will eliminate very few parking spaces, as it will be built on a triangular land- scaped area, Mr. Leonard Lemay, Assistant Director of Services for the Dayton's Depart- ment Stores, stated that the proposed unit is designed strictly to service the parking area customers„ He noted that their experience has been that this would not greatly affect the volume of the existing peripheral area, as they will not attract a large volume from the streets. He stated that the facility would be of modern design with eight dual pumps, the estimated volume being about two million gallons He noted that the gasoline would be priced bets cen a marginal price and a discount price.. Following further discussion,; the Planning Commission generally agreed that no action could be taken until a meeting is held with Dayton's regarding their future planso 3. Hyde Park Area_�Review Mrs; Luce stated that the request is basically for a change in the proposed Southwest Edina Plan to permit a higher density east of Braemar Park. He stated that the staff recommends denial of the proposal. Mr. Ed Johnston of Relocation Realty clarified that the request is for townhouse zoning on a portion of the 13 acres east of Hyde Pa:.k. The Planning Commission generally agreed that they vire not in favor of any proposal of town= houses just south of Dewey Hill. toad and east of Hyde Park, 110 s.ction was taken,, k, Southeast Edina Plan Study Arrendment m Hennepin County South Area Reference Library. Mr.,, Lure stated that the request is for approval of an amendment to the Southeast Edina Flan Study to permit the Hennepin County Souta Avea Reference Library to be constructed in its proposed lacationo He stated that the staff would recommend approval of the. reque3t.