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Recreational Development Lake and land within 1000 feet of the Ordinary High Water mark are <br />required to comply with the shoreland regulations. These regulations include a minimum of <br />15,000 square feet for each lot and a width of 75 feet at the building line. Under the Shoreland <br />Ordinances, a PUD that alters the minimum dimensional standards can be considered, but must <br />be approved by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources before the City approves the <br />development. The developer and City staff met with Tom Hovey from the DNR, who felt that <br />the development is far enough from the shoreline that the lot size wouldn't be an issue. He did <br />indicate that the DNR would want to ensure adequate greenspace, and reminded the developer <br />that the DNR would need to sign off on the final plan. <br /> <br />Paul Kangas from Loucks and Associates addressed the Commission. He indicated this is an <br />exciting project for the community. He highlighted the numerous open areas on the sketch plan <br />and the use of trails to connect the green space. He indicated the smaller lots were chosen <br />because of sky-rocketing land values. He stated that the only difference between the proposed <br />single family homes and the association maintained cottages were lifestyle preferences. All of <br />the structures are detached single family homes on same sized lots. This will maintain the <br />consistency of character throughout the development. He stated a significant number of trees <br />would be retained around the exterior of the development. He mentioned that a neighborhood <br />meeting had been held and this was one of the concerns. He added that some dead brush and <br />thorny species of vegetation would be removed, leaving the more desirable trees. He stated that <br />each structure is shown as a 40 x 60 footprint, which may not accurately reflect the layout of the <br />home when built. He added that in most cases garages will be set back from the home, whereas <br />the sketch plan shows them even with or in front of the home. He indicated that due to the <br />numerous greenspaces provided and the presence of a park to the northwest of the development, <br />they are expecting that park dedication fees will be requested. He indicated the neighbors who <br />attended the information meeting had concerns about the trails along the abutting property, as <br />well as the street connections that would be made. The issue of density transition was also <br />mentioned. The developers feel that with the landscape buffers proposed they can meet the <br />intent of the density transition ordinance. Mr. Kangas stated that additional developments have <br />been completed using smaller lots such as these and they have proven it can work. He added that <br />run-off ponds have been created and the developers don't expect any run-off to occur except <br />within the development. He further added that there would be one boulevard through the <br />development, which would be enhanced by landscaped entrances. The developers are very <br />concerned about saving vegetation when possible. He stated there are three wetland areas. Two <br />will be filled, the third on the east side will be preserved in its current state. <br /> <br />Chairperson Nixt indicated this is not a public hearing, however once the Commission has asked <br />their questions he would briefly allow residents in attendance to comment. He stated the <br />Commission needed more information to make a good decision. Chairperson Nixt asked what <br />had been done at Sunfish Lake Estates and Chestnut Ridge to meet the 15,000 square foot lot <br />size requirements. <br /> <br />Principal Planner Trudgeon indicated he did not know. <br /> <br />Planning Commission/January 2, 2003 <br /> Page 3 of 10 <br /> <br /> <br />