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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016 05-25 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Regular Draft Minutes❑ Approved Minutes® Approved Date:6/22/2016 ///:',0‘ . r,N Minutes ( y City Of Edina, Minnesota Planning Commission ;,� ,�1� , , ,' 4801 West 50th Street, Edina, MN `" Meeting May 25, 2016 I. Call To Order Chair Platteter called the meeting to order at 7:04 P.M. II. Roll Call Answering the Roll were Chair Platteter, Commissioners Hobbs, Lee.Thorsen, Kivimaki, Ma, Nemerov, Olsen, Hamilton Members absent were Commissioners Strauss and Carr Staff present were Scott Neal, Cary Teague, Kris Aaker, and Jackie Hoogenakker III. Approval Of Meeting Agenda Chair Platteter noted he would be changing the order of public hearing items on the Agenda. Motion was made by Thorsen to approve the May 25, 2016, meeting agenda with changes. Motion was seconded by Lee. All voted aye. The motion carried. IV. Approval Of Meeting Minutes Motion was made by Commission to approve the April 27, 2016, Planning Commission meeting minutes. Motion was seconded by Olsen. The motion carried. V. Public Hearings A. Variance request for 6609 Black Foot Pass, Edina, MN Planner Presentation Planner Aaker reported that the applicant is proposing to build a new home at 6609 Black Foot Pass. Aaker explained that the variance is from the City's 1/2 story definition for a flat roof lot area to allow roof top access to solar panels that would be located on the new home. Continuing, Aaker explained the zoning ordinance allows a single dwelling unit to be 2 1/2 stories tall, however, the definition of a 1/2 story limits the space to be below a pitched roofline and does not allow a full floor for the proposed access loft. Aaker pointed out the proposed roof is flat. Page I 1 Draft Minutes❑ Approved Minutes® Approved Date:6/22/2016 Aaker concluded that staff recommends variance approval based on the following findings: I. The proposed use is permitted in the R-I, Single Dwelling Unit District and complies with all zoning standards, with the exception of the definition of a 1/2 story. 2. The home is appropriate is size and scale for the lot and the improvements will enhance the property. The over-all height of the structure is almost 3-feet lower in height that allowed by ordinance. 3. The property is subject to a definition of a 1/2 story that only addresses pitched roofs and not flat roof structures. 4. The proposed home is appropriate is scale for the size of the lot with the new I St floor elevation 3-feet lower than the original home built on the site. Maximum allowed building height is 40 feet and the new home is proposed at 37-feet. 5. There is a practical difficulty in meeting the ordinance requirements and there are circumstances unique to the property due to an imposed 1/2 story definition that only addresses pitched roof design. The variance, if approved, will not alter the essential character of the neighborhood. Approval is also subject to the following conditions: • Survey date stamped April 22, 2016. • Building plans an elevations date stamped April 22, 2016. Appearing for the Applicant Jeff Lindgren,Jalin Design and Tim and Jacqueline Byers. Discussion Commissioners offered the following: • Commissioners asked Planner Aaker if the reason for the variance could be considered a"quirk" in the ordinance. Aaker explained that when the ordinance was written it was written to accommodate the more"traditional" roofing styles. Aaker noted the ordinance hasn't really caught up with the changes in roof styles especially to accommodate solar panels. • Commissioners asked for clarification on building height. Planner Aaker explained the proposed structure would be taller than the existing structure; however, it measures 37-feet in height and the building height for a lot this size can be up to 40-feet. • Commissioners asked for clarification on grading and tree conservation. Mr. Lindgren said at this time they are unsure of how much fill would be removed or needed; however, at the time of building permit that would be known. Continuing, Lindgren noted that in the future the adjacent lot would also be redeveloped, adding he would work with that property owner on grading and if they need fill etc. With regard to trees Lindgren said it is their intent to retain as many trees as possible, adding it's also the goal of the property owner to retain as much vegetation as possible. Lindgren said they would apply for a grading and tree preservation permit and follow all requirements. Page I 2 Draft Minutes EJ Approved Minutes® Approved Date:6/22/2016 • It was noted that the variance makes sense and is the result of an artifact with the City's definition of 1/2 story. Public Hearing Chair Platteter opened the public hearing. No one spoke to the issue. Motion was made by Commissioner Thorsen to close the public hearing. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Lee. All voted aye. The motion carried Motion Motion was made by Commissioner Olsen to approve the variance as requested based on staff findings and subject to staff conditions. Motion was seconded by Nemerov. All voted aye. The motion carried. B. Parking Lot Setback Variance at 4900 West 77th Street for the Three Rivers Park District and the City of Edina. Planner Presentation Planner Teague reported that the City of Edina and the Three Rivers Park District area requesting a parking stall setback variance to construct a small row of parking stalls that would extend onto City owned property (Fred Richards Golf Course). Teague explained that the variance is the result of a condemnation settlement to allow Three Rivers Park District to construct the regional trail along the north lot line of 4900 77th Street West. Continuing, Teague said that the City Council is aware of the settlement and easement agreement; and ultimately will need to approve the easement agreement to allow the encroachment onto City property. Planner Teague pointed out that the role of the Commission is to consider the merits of the variance, and not the easement agreement. That is a City Council decision. Planner Teague concluded that staff recommends approval of the requested variance to construct 13- parking spaces across the lot line on to the city owner property based on the following findings: I. The subject property is losing 7,228 square feet of property to the rear of building for the Three Rivers Regional Trail. 2. The property owner would like to add parking stalls to the site, but there is no room to add stalls and meet setback requirements. 3. In gaining 3,250 square feet of property from the adjacent City owned parcel, 13 parking stalls could be added to the site. The practical difficulty is caused by the loss of land with the location of the Regional Trail along the north lot line and the small size of the lot. Page 13 Draft Minutes❑ Approved Minutes® Approved Date:6/22/2016 4. The intent of the ordinance is to provide green space between parking lots and buildings.The intent of the ordinance is met, in that the adjacent City owned property is and will remain as some type green or open space. 5. The result of the settlement would be a gain of 3,978 square feet of public space; 7228 square feet of public space added with the Regional Trail, and 3,250 square feet of public space used for parking stalls. Approval is subject to the following Conditions: 1. The Stipulation of Settlement must be agreed to and signed between the Three Rivers Park District and 62NDS2 Gateway, LLC and Shapiro Enterprises, LLLP. Planner Teague noted that Scott Neal, City Manager and Jonathan Blemming and Eric Nelson were present. Discussion Commissioners expressed the following: • Commissioners asked who is requesting the variance. Planner Teague responded the applicant is the City and Three Rivers. • Commissioners asked for clarification on their role. Planner Teague reported that the City Council was aware of the agreement between the property owners at 4900 77th Street West and Three Rivers, clarifying that the City Council will need to approve that Easement Agreement; however, at this time the Planning Commission is being asked to only consider the merits of the variance and not the • easement agreement. • Clarification was requested on the number of parking spaces included in the agreement. Planner Teague clarified the settlement indicates 13 parking stalls and an 8' wide trail spur. Teague explained that the parking stall setback variance is from 10 to 0 feet on the east lot line. • It was noted if the trail spur was to provide public access to the trail the "spur" flows into the last two parking stalls on the north end, pointing out that vehicles could be parked in those stalls creating awkward access. Jonathan Blemming, Assistant Superintendent, Three Rivers Park District addressed the Commission and explained that the trail is a public access trail and he believes the parking spaces would be used by trail users. Continuing Discussion • A question was raised with the 0 lot line and if it could become an issue with snow removal noting the stalls will need to be cleared of snow. Planner Teague reported that the easement agreement includes a 10-foot wide maintenance area which could store snow. Page 14 Draft Minutes❑ Approved Minutes® Approved Date:6/22/2016 Public Hearing Kristina Smitten, 2424 Kennedy Street addressed the Commission and indicated she represents Scott Tankenoff/Pentagon Office Park and said with regard to the Three Rivers District Park trail system to not hold Mr. Tankenoff to a higher standard. Chair Platteter asked if anyone else would like to speak to the issue; being none Motion was made by Commissioner Thorsen to close the public hearing. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Lee. All vote aye. The motion carried. Continuing Discussion • Commissioners expressed the opinion that the trail spur shouldn't encroach onto the parking spaces. Planner Teague responded that the spur could be shifted farther north. • It was also noted that this is an unfortunate situation and the Commission can't lose site that the"Trail" is the big picture. • A question was raised on the parking stalls and maintenance with regard to ownership. Planner Teague responded that the 13 parking stalls along with the maintenance strip is an easement;the land continues to belong to the City; however 4900 77th is responsible for its maintenance. A discussion ensued with Commissioners expressing support for the trail system; however, noting this situation is less than ideal. It was also noted that it feels like all the pieces of the trail system aren't finalized and the Commission is being asked to review only a small piece of the system. It was further pointed out the trail is also a pedestrian trail and better emphasis must be made to the entry points onto the trail. Much depends on how the trail access is handled, and trail access is critical. Manager Neal explained that he understands the questions about the trail spur and access however at this time the spur is not a factor it's the parking stalls. Mr. Blemming agreed with Manager Neal adding the location of the trail spur is not set in stone. With graphics Mr. Nelson pointed out the trails system and informed Commissioners that all right-of-ways have seen secured and there are other access points proposed to the trail. Motion Motion was made by Commissioner Hobbs to approve the parking stall setback variance based on staff findings and subject to staff conditions with the additional conditions that the spur trail be moved to the north, the trail is to be open to the public and does not go through a parking stall. Motion was seconded by Thorsen. Ayes; Hobbs, Thorsen, Nemerov, Olsen, Hamilton, Platteter. Nay; Lee. Motion carried. Page 15 ___ i ... x��, Draft Minutes❑ Approved Minutes® Approved Date:6/22/2016 of the gas station would be felt; however, redevelopment does continue and the Commission and Council are required to act on each redevelopment proposal. • Planner Teague was asked if there was a way uses can be more "open" in a PUD rezoning, pointing out tenants do change. Planner Teague responded that as previously mentioned the uses allowed are spelled out in the PCD-1 zoning district and in the individual PUD-I zoning. He stated any use not specifically listed is not allowed. If there was a tenant change any use not listed as allowed would need to come back before the Commission and Council for approval to amend the PUD-I rezoning. Motion Commissioner Thorsen moved to recommend preliminary rezoning and site plan approval based on staff findings and subject to staff conditions. Commissioner Nemerov seconded the motion and offered an amendment to the conditions of approval to include the planting of over story trees along France Avenue and if that is not possible develop as acceptable alternative. Commissioner Thorsen accepted that condition. Ayes; Thorsen, Olsen, Nemerov, Hamilton, Platteter. Nay, Hobbs, Lee. Motion carried. VI. Community Comment None. Motion was made by Commissioner Thorsen to close Community Comment. Seconded by Commissioner Lee. All voted aye. The motion carried. VII. Reports and Recommendations 2018 Comprehensive Plan Update Chair Platteter addressed the Commission and asked them to refer to the companion documents sent to them on an overview of the Comprehensive Plan and project schedule. Platteter said the intent is to take these documents to the City Council sometime this summer and begin the process of updating the Plan. Platteter said he believes this update would be a two year process with numerous check-ins with both the Commission and Council. Planner Teague addressed the Commission giving a brief overview of Comprehensive Plan history. He told the Commission they will be guiding the Comprehensive Plan update. He explained this will be an updating of the existing plan that responds to changes in the community that have occurred over the past 10-years. Teague reiterated that the Plan needs to be updated; not totally rewritten. Continuing, Teague reiterated the Planning Commission guides the updating process with the City Council approving the updated Plan by a 4/5's vote. Teague further noted as mentioned by Chair Platteter that multiple check- ins would occur during this 2 year process. Page 1 9 Draft Minutes0 Approved Minutes® Approved Date:6/22/2016 Continuing, Teague listed the contents of the current Comprehensive Plan and stated the Commission will be responsible for the land use element of the plan other areas of the Plan will be reviewed by respective departments with the aid of the Planning Commission, Community Development, Planning Division and Consultant(once one is chosen). Teague also noted that the Met Council Plan has added to additional elements to the Plan, Resilience and Competitiveness. Teague said he foresees the Energy and Environment Commission, Health Division, Community Development, Planning Division and Planning Consultant focusing on Resilience. Competitiveness would be reviewed by the Community Development and Economic Development Division including the Planning Division. Commissioner Hobbs excused himself at 9:00 p.m. Concluding, Teague said he would like the Commission to think about their role as the Task Force and future individual responsibilities to the City's other Boards and Commission and create work groups that are also made up of residents. Teague further noted that the discussion on the Comprehensive Plan will continue throughout these next two years as a continued discussion item at Commission meetings (as needed) and of course the individual task forces. Chair Platteter also pointed out time will be spent on the following neighborhood districts; 50th and France and Cahill Road. A small area plan was implemented for the Valley View and Wooddale area that would need updating. Platteter noted that the Commission will spend a lot of time in the areas of change. He said updating the Plan for a built out community is challenging, adding everyone will need to be involved. Chair Platteter and Planner Teague thanked the Commission adding there is much work ahead, to include an RFP, consultant interviews, and multiple public hearings. It was further suggested that each Commissioner think about where their interests are strong and "volunteer" in those areas. Commissioner Olsen also informed Commissioners that the Met Council offers Comprehensive Plan training and is also offering webinar's. VI. Correspondence And Petitions Chair Platteter acknowledged back of packet materials. VII. Chair And Member Comments Chair Platteter asked the Commission to note that Claudia Carr has resigned from the Commission, adding the City greatly appreciates all the work she has done for the City of Edina. Continuing, Platteter said in the future a new Vice-Chair will need to be elected to take Carr's place. He asked Commissioners to "think about this." Page 110 Draft MinutesD Approved Minutes Approved Date:6/22/2016 Commissioner Lee acknowledged a letter from a resident who expressed her displeasure with the teardown rebuilt process. Lee noted that the Planning Commission's Work Plan includes the residential redevelopment management plan adding she would like to continue to work with staff, in regard to stormwater management issues City wide. Lee said she would keep the Commission updated on the progress. Chair Platteter suggested that Commissioner Lee should develop a charter stating the goals, timing and desired outcome to present to the Planning Commission and City Council for their approval. VIII.Staff Comments None IX. Adjournment Motion was made by Commissioner Thorsen to adjourn the meeting of the Planning Commission at 9:35 P.M. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Lee. All voted aye. The motion carried. facia&}E othgenoacicer Respectfully submitted Page 111