Minutes - Council - 04/25/1995 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Beyer then suggested that the statement that pertains to all criteria being met is not tree. Councilmember Zimmerman voiced that this plat is out of step with the neighborhood. He stated he is not in favor of this development and that 2.5 acre density would be appropriate. Beth Mitchell, 8500 - 176th Lane N.W., Ramsey, inquired of Council why they moved to the City of Ramsey. Mayor Hardin replied for open spaces, a good quality area, access and proximity to the Metro Area. Ms. Mitchell summarized Mayor Hardin's comments as meaning safe, private, beautiful and affordable. She added that when you develop in a manner - less than 2.5 - 3 acre lots, what's in it for the City? She suggested that if it's lower taxes, she hasn't noticed that. She added that she's paying for a new road - so she's not getting that from taxes already paid. The Police force is not big enough and schools will only hold enough students for developments already done. She reiterated she is not sure what the benefit is of building as many houses as possible. Mr. Schroeder stated it is incumbent upon City government to plan for use of its land masses in an appropriate fashion. Cities like Ramsey, Andover and Dayton will develop. The Planning Commission, Park and Recreation Commission, Economic Development Commission and the City Council are all here'to provide for proper planning for the community. In some places, a lot of folks think that means large lots, open spaces and minimal services. Development pressures have been on the City of Ramsey since at least 1970 and will continue in the future. We need to provide for proper planning of these pressures. We have to think of the most efficient and best long-term development for the City. The City has conducted extensive studies on urban versus rural development. Mr. Schroeder stated that the Metropolitan Council has stated on numerous occasions, that rural development is more expensive than urban. What the City gets - it's not what the City gets but instead that the City should provide for the development that will occur. Owners of property have a right to provide for the highest and best use of their property, by law. This proposal meets that criteria. Ms. Mitchell inquired where the development pressure comes from. Mr. Schroeder replied from people who want to move here and f'md parcels of property. Ms. Mitchell stated that just because someone wants to live here doesn't mean we have to find a place for them. There are a lot of places already here. She reiterated that she is not sure the City actually gets more money. She added that if someone wants to live somewhere that looks like Brooklyn Park, they should move there. Mr. Schroeder surmised that 25 years ago, 2,000 people lived here and maybe they should have made that same statement. Ms. Mitchell stated we are getting enough people here. Mr. Schroeder inquired when the "door should be slammed shut". City Council/April 25, 1995 Page 13 of 23