Agenda - Planning Commission - 06/04/2020

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Commissioner VanScoy asked if staff received responses from the three residents that they reached out to directly. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl confirmed that targeted communications were sent to the residents more interior to the site. She stated that one resident responded that he did not feel a special meeting was necessary and was not going to attend tonight. The resident commented that he was aware development would come and hoped that additional homes in the area would lower his taxes. She stated that staff would still recommend density transitioning around the existing lots. Commissioner Woestehoff asked if staff received input from the developer related to their willingness to provide another extension. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl confirmed that the developer has signed another 60-day extension that was not included in the case and are willing to work with the City and do not want to pressure the decision. Commissioner Peters asked if staff has reached out to the school districts and whether they have support for that level of development. He noted that within Brookfield the school district line occurs within the neighborhood. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated that the site is divided by school district boundaries and therefore half the neighborhood would go to Ramsey and half would go to Elk River. She stated that the school district has stated that they sized Ramsey Elementary to prepare for the projected growth in the community. Deputy City Administrator Gladhill stated that following the US census, redistricting occurs across the country. He stated that the City has expressed a desire to likely have a third elementary school at some point and would love to have a middle school as well. He stated that much of the Anoka High School population is Ramsey residents. He stated that the City hopes to continue to work with the school districts in looking forward at the future. Commissioner Woestehoff asked for staff to provide input on the comments received from public safety. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl confirmed that the entire public safety team reviewed the request and did not have any concerns at this time with the exception of plowing related to the cul-de-sacs. She noted that those departments will continue to provide input throughout the review process. Citizen Input Ben Schmidt, Excelsior Group, stated that he was present to address any questions. He commented that they understand that during these times things may not move as smoothly as they typically would and would be willing to grant the additional time for input. He stated that he can also reach out to neighbors individually to address questions as desired as well. He understood that neighbors can have concerns when property is proposed for development from farmland. He noted that they will be completing an EAW and advised that this is just the start of the process. Planning Commission/ May 7, 2020 Page 8 of 29