Minutes - Planning Commission - 06/05/2014

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Del Fredricks, 7550 158 Avenue NW, stated if 158 Avenue goes away, he would need another access for his driveway. He stated a conservation easement was worked in to provide a transition buffer from large lot rural to higher density homes. Mr. Fredricks recommended using Outlot A for a trailhead. He stated the roadway becomes a bit of a racetrack, at times, and creates a safety issue so using Outlot A as a natural area and trail would be a safer route. Mr. Fredricks stated if the road is opened, he would be concerned about an increase in traffic through the neighborhood. He supported leaving it closed off unless Traprock Commons decides to further develop. In that case, the bikeway could be removed and a street constructed. James Couch, 15800 Traprock Street NW, stated he is concerned with a conservation easement because there is nothing written about how it will be handled, maintenance, construction, and what will be planted. He described the rural nature of Traprock Commons and need for a viable conservation easement to block this neighborhood from higher density projects. Mr. Couch stated if the conservation easement is not done right, there is no reason for it. He asked the City to be sure it is a viable part of the project. Community Development Director Gladhill stated the intent of the conservation easement is to protect what naturally exists and not necessary introduce new trees. Duane Sthilaire, 7335 Alpine Drive NW, stated with a stop light on Ramsey Boulevard and Alpine Drive and where his property attaches to the back of Country Hill, they could run Rhinestone Street to Alpine Drive to eliminate the traffic. He agreed that the area will become congested with traffic from the new houses. Community Development Director Gladhill displayed a map depicting the area referenced by Mr. Sthilaire. He stated while this is a good suggestion and can be discussed in the future, the City cannot expect the developer to bear those costs. Community Development Director Gladhill stated the purpose of this agenda item is to react to the plat before the Planning Commission. Del Fredricks, 7550 158 Avenue NW, indicated another safety issue if Traprock Street is open is that the Traprock Street and Alpine Drive junction is across the road from the Hanson Tree Farm entrance. Motion by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner VanScoy, to close the public hearing. Motion Carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Levine, Commissioners Bauer, VanScoy, Brauer, Maul, and Nosan. Voting No: None. Absent: Commissioner Field. Chairperson Levine closed the public hearing closed at 8:13 p.m. Commission Business Planning Commission /June 5, 2014 Page 9of16