Agenda - Planning Commission - 07/12/2018

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Presentation Planning Intern Imihy presented the Staff Report stating in 2016, following the Public Hearing regarding the property located at 6139 157th Lane NW, staff was instructed to create a new zoning district within the City of Ramsey for the purposes of commercial property located near or adjacent to residential properties. This zoning district did not move forward in 2016 and staff has been directed to bring the case back to the Planning Commission as a discussion item. This proposed zoning district is slightly more restrictive than the current B-1 district and would not occur along Highways 47 or 10. The intent of this ordinance is truly small-scale, neighborhood -scale commercial uses. The intent is not to allow higher intensity uses most commonly found along highway corridors. This district can be a valuable tool moving forward as the City attempts to accomplish comprehensive plan goals to provide a mix of uses focused on neighborhoods. For example, another potential area for this zoning district could be used would be near the new elementary school (not proposed at this time). Staff has modified the proposed zoning district from 2016 to include four permitted uses, three conditional uses and five prohibited uses. Staff would like the Planning Commission's feedback. The purpose of the discussion tonight is to review the draft zoning district, collect feedback from the Planning Commission regarding the new zoning district, and bring an ordinance back to a later meeting. Commission Business Commissioner Anderson commented he was not in favor staff pursuing this further. Commissioner Gengler indicated she supported the creation of small neighborhood business districts. She explained this type of zoning district could assist in creating walkable neighborhoods and would create sense of community. Commissioner Surma agreed and noted this would make the community walkable. Commissioner Woestehoff stated he could support the sale of beer or wine for a small restaurant in the neighborhood business district. Commissioner Anderson stated he feared dropping businesses into a residential neighborhood could change the character of the neighborhood. Commissioner VanScoy indicated he appreciated the flexibility of the proposed zoning district and believed this would be a good tool for the City. 7. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE ITEMS Community Development Director Gladhill provided the Commission with an update on the Comprehensive Plan. 8. COMMISSION / STAFF INPUT Planning Commission/June 7, 2018 Page 12 of 13