Agenda - Planning Commission - 08/26/2021

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Commissioner Anderson stated that the Commission has received input on this type of transition in the past. He noted that in the other instance the residents were acceptable to the 65-foot lot width adjacent to the existing lots with the appropriate density transition which included a berm corridor and landscaping. Chairperson Bauer stated that in that case there were sketches provided with an open house worksession where neighbors could come in to review the plans and provide comments. He stated that through those discussions there was a compromise reached between the developer and neighbors. He suggested that the developer follow a similar path in order to gain input and support from the neighboring property owners. Commissioner Anderson stated that he is still against even the looped plan. He stated that the City has problems with developers presenting a nice plat that only has one way in. He stated that although the fire department would have access, he would be concerned with how residents could get out of the development if there is an incident. He noted that he would be more in favor of the plan if there is a second access. He stated that he does not mind the mix of density as long as transitioning is provided but is against the long cul-de-sac. Mr. Jablonski stated that this property is challenging because of its shape. He stated that they have communicated with the neighbor but first attempted to work with just the subject property and are not aware of what may or may not come from discussions with other property owners. He noted that they also want to be cautious about forcing additional traffic through a rural area. He stated that there are no roads that align on the other side of Armstrong because of the fire station and therefore it would be a challenge to provide an in and out access without acquiring more property. Commissioner VanScoy stated that ideally it would be nice if the City could work with the applicant on this as the ideal situation would be to have access through the City property. He asked if there has been conversation about that concept. City Planner Anderson stated that staff will be meeting to determine whether that would be viable. He believed that the existing septic drain field may be in that location, but perhaps the City could connect to municipal services which would eliminate the need for a drain field. Commissioner VanScoy stated that he fully supports that concept. He stated that if the City could support this development, it would be a nice solution. Chairperson Bauer stated that based upon input received in previous discussions, people are generally opposed to bringing additional traffic through existing residential neighborhoods. Councilmember Woestehoff stated that the Public Works Committee recently reviewed a request to repave the fire station parking lot and confirmed that the drain field is located in that area being discussed. Planning Commission/ July 22, 2021 Page 14 of 22