Agenda - Planning Commission - 01/04/2018

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plan reviews completed recently, this is not intended to be an in depth review. The intent is to also agree on a schedule and process moving forward. Community Development Director Gladhill reported the City hosted a broader public engagement session in 2013. The scope of that workshop was to explore strategies to improve the image of the retail node at 167th Avenue and Saint Francis Boulevard (Trunk Highway 47). At that workshop, this concept was shared by Rum River Hills. However, this workshop was never published with the development concept in mind or specific to Rum River Hills. Given that the proposal is a change to the Comprehensive Plan (extend the urban service area; increase density), Staff recommends that a public engagement session focused on the Rum River Hills proposal be advertised for January 4, 2018. Community Development Director Gladhill explained Rum River Hills is also requesting certain financial assistance for this project. With this in mind, the project will also be reviewed by the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and City Council in advance/parallel to the Planning Commission's review of the Land Use Application. Commission Business Mike Allen, 16767 Iodine Street NW, explained he lived on the golf course and was one of the shareholders. He reported this concept began 10 years ago and has had some delays. He stated two years ago the concept was revisited in order to assist with revitalizing the retail node at 167th. He provided further comment on the proposed bay homes and stated these units would create a unique blend of homes on the golf course. He indicated the preliminary conversations with the City Council was that they were supportive if a trunk sewer line could be brought to the property. He stated he appreciated staff's help with their presentation of the concept plan. Commissioner VanScoy asked if the golf course owned land proposed for expansion. Mr. Allen stated the golf course does not currently own the land. He noted a portion of this land was owned by the City and the golf course was willing to purchase. He explained the remaining portion was private land. Commissioner VanScoy indicated his main concern with the proposed high density development was ensuring there was a good transition between the new units and the existing development. Commissioner Nosan stated she liked the concept and she appreciated the proposed tunnel. She believed the water in this area would serve as a natural buffer. Her only concern was with the additional traffic that would be generated in this neighborhood and how this would impact Highway 47. Commissioner Brauer commented these additional rooftops could assist with the residential retail node. He stated he supported the proposed concept plan. Commissioner Anderson indicated he would reserve judgement on the concept plan until he heard from the citizens in the area. Planning Commission/December 7, 2017 Page 9 of 13