Minutes - Planning Commission - 07/09/2020 - Work Session

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Jake Packer, relative of property owner, stated that it seems the Commission has made up its mind as to the direction for the property. He stated that they submitted a letter to the Council and Commissions in order to articulate their concerns. He stated that they are sympathetic to the concerns expressed by residents but also believe that the concerns and rights of the landowner have merit. He stated that of the 200 acres within Trott Brook North area, the Makowsky family owns approximately 160 acres and has lived on the land for the past 106 years with over 40 family members that have an interest in the land today. He stated that they feel as landowners that they should be able to maximize the value of the land. He explained that the sale price of the land is directly tied to the ability to develop the land. He stated that without flexibility, they will not receive the same type of interest. He stated that the developers they have spoken with are not interested in all 80 foot lots for a property that large. He stated that buyers desire a variety of housing types and having a mix of lot sizes would give buyers different opportunities. John Packer, relative of property owner, stated that this development would greatly expand the park and trail system. He stated that the initial plan proposed 77 acres of land along with the family barns on the property. He stated that if there is not a compromise on lot sizes, many of the community features may be lost. He stated that this land has been slated for development for years and the majority of concern expressed by residents was related to development in general and not the lot sizes. He stated that they have a hard time understanding how this is fair to the landowners. He asked that the Commission consider a compromise that would consider the landowner rights. Commissioner Johnson stated that there are developments with 80-foot lots that have sold homes. Mr. Packer commented that development was developed in the early 2000's and the market demands have changed since that time. Commissioner Johnson stated that he does not support the statement that 80 foot lots are not sellable. He stated that he would need to see hard numbers in order to reconsider. Mr. Packer stated that he is unsure if Excelsior will move forward with 80-foot lots and if that developer backs out,that takes away the option for the landowners. He stated that his family have paid the taxes on the property for 106 years and would like consideration of their rights as landowners. Commissioner Woestehoff stated that the Commission suggested a compromise which was denied by the City Council. He stated that the Commission provided the opportunity and the Council made a clear decision on requiring 80-foot lots. Commissioner Johnson stated that he wants to be respectful to the landowner but also the neighbors that exist in that area. Commissioner VanScoy stated that he appreciates the comments from the Packers. He stated that from a strategic element,the City is looking to maintain a mix of rural and urban development and the intent is to place the smaller lots closer to The COR and Highway 10 and maintain the larger more rural lots as you move away from that corridor. Planning Commission Worksession/July 9, 2020 Page 4 of 6