Minutes - Planning Commission - 11/03/2005

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Commissioner Shepherd stated this is a very nice piece of real estate and it is important to open some areas for public access, not just to build all along the prime areas with private property. It would be nice for the public to be able to enjoy the scenery without stepping on people’s land. Mr. Feges indicated there is an opportunity for an access point for a trail that meanders around the lake. Chairperson Nixt stated the Commission has provided Mr. Feges with meaningful feedback with the current level of opposition towards this type of development. He noted when this level of density is put in the land often gets completely emasculated. He would like to understand how the PUD would help preserve some of the natural topography of the land and how the structures will be integrated into the land. This type of information should be included when Mr. Feges comes back before the Commission with a proposal. Commissioner Brauer stated working with Mr. Feges on Town Center they have seen the kinds of things he can do and the creative solutions he can come up with. Mr. Feges stated earlier that he would like to work with the residents and he would encourage him to do that. Mr. Feges stated Shorewalk, LLC respects working with communities. It is his responsibility to develop the product so it is complimentary to the community and the feedback of the Commission helps tremendously. Case #8: Public Hearing – Request for Preliminary Plat Review of The Meadow; Case of GM Homes, Inc. Chairperson Nixt closed the regular portion of the Planning Commission meeting at 8:03 p.m. in order to reconvene the public hearing. Public Hearing Chairperson Nixt reconvened the public hearing at 8:03 p.m. Chairperson Nixt indicated the public hearings for Case Nos. 8, 9 and 10 will be handled together. Assistant Community Development Director Frolik advised GM Land Development is also requesting an amendment to the 2001 Comprehensive Plan to reconfigure the existing land use designations for this property in a way that will permit the development of single family lots while preserving Public/Quasi-Public sites for the future needs of the community. While the School District cannot commit that this property will be used for a school, the City Council and the School Board have met on this issue. In previous work sessions, the City Council has expressed a strong desire to preserve the land around the current City Hall campus for a future school use. Assistant Community Development Director Frolik stated staff is recommending approval of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment. She advised staff recommends approval of the rezoning, contingent upon Metropolitan Council approval of the related Comprehensive Plan Planning Commission/November 3, 2005 Page 11 of 27