Minutes - Planning Commission - 08/01/1995

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Case #3: Request for Site Plan Review; Case of Anoka Electric Cooperative Zoning Administrator Frolik stated that Anoka Electric Cooperative (AEC) has applied for site plan review of their new operations center to be developed on Lot 1, Block i of the proposed plat of AEC Energy Park. She noted that Paul Meyer of Smith Architects was present representing AEC. Ms. Frolik stated that, although the applicant is not obligated to construct the improvements, the site plan was deficient of the trail plan and picnic sites around the wetland as recommended by the Park Commission. She noted that what was depicted as shrub mass on the southwestem comer is actually a stand of trees and is sufficient screening for Ramsey Boulevard. The areas yet to be addressed are waste storage, screening and a lighting plan. Staff recommends that the asphalt line be modified to include the pole storage area, and requests more detailed information regarding the 900 foot square foot partially enclosed storage area located just southeast of the structure. The drainage plan is acceptable in concept, however, details of detention pond and runoff calculations must be submitted to the Lower Rum River Water Management Organization for approval. Paul Mickelberg, Boarman, Kroos, Pfister & Associates, gave a presentation regarding the proposed site plan. He explained that the pole storage is not depicted on blacktop because they are looking at using Class V since they will be dropping pads on macks in that area and doing such on bituminous would tear up the asphalt. He noted that they intend to leave as many trees on the site as possible while achieving their drainage and grading plans. Commissioner Hendriksen inquired as to whether there were two entrances on Ramsey Boulevard, and Mr. Mickelberg pointed out all the entrances for the site. Ms. Frolik added that the Anoka County Highway Department views the site plan as acceptable. Relative to the stand of trees adjacent to Ramsey Boulevard which Staff felt was sufficient, Commissioner Hendriksen commented that he believed those trees wouldn't have leaves nine months of the year, and Mr. Mickelberg agreed that was a tree statement Ms. Frolik suggested getting some coniferous trees growing in the area also. Commissioner Deemer inquired about tum lanes and bypass lanes. Mr. Mickelberg replied that they are asking the County to provide turn lanes but is unsure of how they feel about bypass lanes. Commissioner Deemer strongly recommended bypass lanes for west-bound traffic on County Road #116 and south-bound traffic on County Road #56, and Chairperson Bawden agreed it was a good idea. Ms. Frolik inquired as to the description of the canopied outside storage area. Mr. Mickelberg stated that it would be constructed with the same material as the Convention Center in Minneapolis. He explained that it will house the vehicles that need to be out of the elements, and that it will have open drives on both sides. Commissioner Deemer inquired about the lighting plan, and that was addressed by Mr. Mickelberg. Motion by Commissioner Deemer and seconded by Commissioner Terry to recommend that City Council grant site plan approval to Anoka Electric Cooperative contingent upon compliance with City Staff Review Letter dated Suly 26, 1995, and based on discussion pertaining to turn and bypass lanes on C.R. #56 and C.R. #116. Planning Commission/August 1, 1995 Page 5 of 6