Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 10/12/1995

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Case #3: Rdquest for Site Plan Review; Case of Anoka Electric Cooperative Zoning Administrgtor Frolik stated that Anoka Electric Cooperative (AEC) has applied for site plan review of their n~w operations center to be developed on Lot 1, Block 1 of the proposed plat of AEC Energy Par~. She noted that Paul Meyer of Smith Architects was present representing AEC. Ms. Frolik stated Ithat, although the applicant is not obligated to construct the improvements, the site plan was defi{ient of the trail plan and picnic sites around the wetland as recommended by the Park Commissiori. She noted that what was depicted as shrub mass on the southwestern corner is actually a stand qf 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 a~ceptable in concept, however, details of detention pond and runoff calculations must be submitted to the Lower Rum River Water Management Organization for approval. Paul Meyer, Smith Architects, gave a presentation regarding the proposed site plan. He explained that the pole storgge is not depicted on blacktop because they are looking at using Class V since they will be dropping pads on trucks in that area and doing such on bituminous would tear up the asphalt. He note¢l that they intend to leave as many trees on the site as possible while achieving their drainage and grading plans. Commissioner H~ndriksen inquired as to whether there were two entrances on Ramsey Boulevard, and Mr. Meyer pO~inted out all the entrances for the site. Ms. Frolik added fthat 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 ye~, and Mr. Meyer agreed that was a tree statement. Ms. Frolik suggested getting some coniferous trees growing in the area also. Commissioner Deemer inquired about turn lanes and bypass lanes. Mr. Meyer repli~ that they are asking the County to provide turn lanes but is unsure of how they feel about bypas~ lanes. Commissioner Deemer strongly recommended bypass lanes for west-bound traffic on County Road/ti 16 and s/~uth-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 .Meyer stated that it would be constructed with the same material as the Convention Center in Minneapolis. Hd explained that it will house the vehicles that need to be out of the elements, and that it will have dpen drives on both sides. Commissioner Deemer inquired about the lighting plan, and that was addressed by Mr. Meyer. Motion by Commissioner Deemer and seconded by Commissioner Terry to recommend that City Council grant sit~ 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 ~2.R. #56 and C.R. #116. Planning Commission/August 1, 1995 Page 5 of 6