Agenda - Planning Commission - 06/01/2017

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Mr. Steve Bona reviewed the drawing and provided background information on Capstone Homes. The planning process began many months ago. They are trying to get final plat approval in June -July timeframe and start construction in July. The park would be part of Phase I of the project. The property is zoned R-2 which is meant for the smaller lots. A consultant was used to help plan the development as far as lot sizes, home sizes, pricing, etc. There will be a homeowner's association. These are not standard single family lots. There will be three different project types. Some of the lots are 50 feet wide. Mr. Bona feels there is a need for a park close to the homes. When completed there will be 300 units. The neighborhood was designed with the park in mind. The original proposal made to the City included three greenspace areas/parks. One greenspace was removed from the proposal on the south side of the property. The park will cost $483,000 to build and the developer was requesting park credit for $300,000. The developer will provide the improvements to the park area. The pad will cost $146,000. The credit for the trail was $182,000. $867,000 in total improvement costs and the developer is requesting $483,000 in park credits. Acting Chair Sis asked what benefit it is for the City to be involved. Mr. Bona stated the trail cannot be constructed without the credits for park dedication from the City. The developer is paying over $1M to bring in the infrastructure into the property. Mr. Riverblood asked Mr. Bona to say what the benefit of the private open space/park is to the City. There is no relationship between bringing in sewer and water to the park dedication. Mr. Bona stated the park cannot be constructed without the street. Residents from outside the neighborhood will be using the park especially when the trail is completed and Lake Itasca is in place. Acting Chair Sis stated he thought the trail to Lake Itasca would be more of a direct than what was in the original plan. Mr. Riverblood stated with the development the trail is somewhat out of line. This was a concession made. Mr. Riverblood disagrees when the developer says there cannot be a park without a street or utilities. Commissioner Trappen is concerned with the HOA. Mr. Bona stated the park would be City property and maintained by the HOA.