Agenda - Council - 12/11/2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember McGlone noted the cost for a chain link fence with mesh and a few trees is cheaper than installing a footing and brick wall. He stated since this location is downtown and a data center, it needs to be something more appropriate that is similar in building material, such as the brick. Mayor Ramsey stated he preferred the brick wall in the front but could support metal screening in the back. He indicated he likes the treatment Allina used to include a bench or a planter. Councilmember Strommen agreed that softened the aesthetic. Development Services Manager Gladhill stated staff did point out the Allina and Midwest Medical Examiner buildings as examples. He asked if the wall height could be reduced from the diagram showing a wall that is close to six feet tall. Councilmember Elvig stated the appearance and need to abate noise are his concerns. He noted there is no residential programmed near this location but if the use runs a generator ten hours every week as a test run, he would prefer it exhausts up to the roof so it does not blow diesel exhaust into that area. Mayor Ramsey stated he did not support a full chain link fence. Councilmember Wise stated he finds the flat wall is not attractive and agrees that a chain link fence is definitely not acceptable in this location. Councilmember Elvig noted a chain link fence also does not address sound mitigation. City Administrator Ulrich offered the alternative of using wrought iron fence, which is more decorative than chain link and not that much more expensive. Mayor Ramsey stated he would not support chain link on the street side and felt some landscaping was also needed. Councilmember Strommen pointed out that when driving down Sunwood, the first side you will see is the chain link. She stated architectural standards are in place, the building looks great, and chain link is not the aesthetic desired. Councilmember McGlone noted the Code says "like building materials" and since this is a data center, there is a security element as well. He asked why they would not want a wall with a door that locks. Councilmember McGlone asked which angle is to be screened according to the Code. Development Services Manager Gladhill answered screening is about the view from the street and sidewalk with the intent to screen it from public view. He stated staff did suggest the screening wall turn the corner. Councilmember Strommen pointed out that the proposed one-sided wall would not comply. City Council Work Session / November 20, 2012 Page 2 of 4