Minutes - Planning Commission - 05/07/2020

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clarify some misunderstanding that may exist. She stated that perhaps the 55 lots against Variolite would be an issue and would encourage 80-foot lots and buffering in that area. Commissioner Peters stated that he lives in Brookfield, noting that the previously existing homeowners' association has been disestablished. He stated that he has lived in a range of housing products and in different areas and therefore has a wide understanding of different living arrangements. He commented that some people desire different things. He stated that sometimes an 80-foot lot is more than some people can handle and maintain. He commented that you are not able to pick your neighbors and sometimes smaller lots are easier for some to maintain in a well- kept manner. He stated that perhaps a single parent desires a smaller lot with less maintenance. Commissioner Woestehoff stated that he finds himself in a position of compromise quite a bit and supports the element of affordable housing. He stated that the more different the people around you are, the better person you ultimately become. He stated that to say that a home valued at $350,000 is low income housing is absurd and it is helpful to have variety in housing. He commented that he does not believe that an R-2 zoning would be appropriate but would continue to support R-1 zoning. He commented that he wants to see the park and other elements remain. He stated that he would love to see a compromise to bring diversity to the development. Chairperson Bauer clarified that R-1 villas would support 65-foot lots, rather than the 55-foot lots supported by R-2. Commissioner Woestehoff encouraged the Commission to remember that a lot of time has been spent on this case and he would encourage a decision rather than tabling. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated that regardless of the direction tonight, staff plans to bring this forward to the City Council at the May 26th meeting for input. Commissioner VanScoy asked if input has been received from all the Commissioners. Commissioner Johnson commented that he would be in favor of smaller lots but in respect to the Comprehensive Plan and comments of the neighbors he would support 80-foot lots. He stated that he lives on a 66-foot lot in the Woodlands and loves it, often seeing wildlife in his yard. He stated that based on the feedback and intent of the Comprehensive Plan he would support 80-foot lots. Commissioner VanScoy stated that he has no problem with smaller lots in certain areas, closer to Highway 10. He commented that as you move out from that corridor and into the rural area, the intent for the parcel was to have 80-foot lots and he would support that. He stated that this area is intended to transition to rural and he would like it to remain that way. Motion by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner VanScoy,to recommend that City Council deny Ordinance #20-07 approving a Zoning Amendment for the Makowsky Property for The Excelsior Group. Further discussion Planning Commission/May 7, 2020 Page 20 of 29