Agenda - Council - 02/23/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Mr. Bona commented that he would be happy to pass those comments on and can recommend that to their production team. He stated that it is a significant process to make a change to every home but would be happy to share the comment and get feedback. Commissioner Anderson referenced the northeast corner, specifically lots 16 through 20, noting that those lots appear to be less than 40 feet in width and asked for details. Mr. Bakritges stated that those lots are not less than 40 feet, as they are measured at the setback and not the right-of-way. Chairperson Bauer commented that he lives in Riverstone North and has not had a problem with the 29-foot width. Mr. Bona commented that the narrower road provides a benefit to calming traffic, as traffic travels at higher speeds on wider roads. John Dehen, 14806 Bowers Drive, stated that he was previously a member of the Ramsey City Council before transitioning to being a District Court Judge. He commented that virtually no one along Bowers Drive likes the density higher than it needs to be. He recognized the concept that if someone does not want something to be built next to them, they should purchase the land themselves. He commented that with the required amendments, it is an ability for the City to follow the plan that was set forth before them. He asked why the number of houses is being packed in above what is allowed by the Comprehensive Plan and zoning. He used the example of 29-foot roads, which developers like because they are less costly and allow more lots, but they are not good for cities and maintenance. He believed that higher density housing should continue to be concentrated around The COR rather than increasing the density in this area. He stated that often sidewalks are setback into yards with tree planting between the road and sidewalk while other times sidewalks are against the road and asked which option this plan would propose. He stated that this is an opportunity for the Commission to require the developer to follow the guidance of the Comprehensive Plan and not increase the density in this more rural area. He appreciated the architectural considerations included in this plan to ensure that all the homes would not look the same. He commented that developers will come and go but residents often remain in the community for longer terms. He asked the Commission to deny the amendment to the Comprehensive Plan and require the developer to rework its plan to meet the guidance of the Comprehensive Plan. Dave Nathe, 14453 Llama Street, stated that he owns the adjoining property. He asked what would happen with Lazy Dayz RV, as that business parks on both sides of the street. He asked if there would be a buffer zone or fence buffering his property. He asked if the ponding area on the site would be increased or whether another ponding area would be added. Deputy City Administrator Gladhill commented that he will work with Lazy Dayz to evaluate the parking as he believed the intent was to only allow parking on one side of the street. He commented that as the connection for this development is made that parking issue will become more important. He stated that the Nathe property is undeveloped and abuts 65-foot lots. He Planning Commission/ January 7, 2021 Page 13 of 19