Minutes - Council - 08/24/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The developer stated the 65-foot-wide lots are a result of working with a challenging and difficult site. He added the property is guided for high density residential, which is a more intense use. He noted the rest of the site could be apartments or condos, and potentially a few more residential properties along the north and west, since the density will not be as high as it is currently zoned for. The developer stated transition and buffer areas along the home sites is designed to meet the intent of the density transitioning Ordinance, including berms and landscaping. He added this is an important aspect of the development of this parcel, as it will be difficult to sell competitively priced single-family homes on larger lots in an area surrounded by townhomes. He noted the most logical solution would be units on 60-foot-wide lots with density that is similar to the surrounding townhomes. The developer noted that the single-family homes will be built near the fire station, which is not typically as desirable for single family buyers, especially for 80-foot lots. He added the plan is to have transitional townhomes to the north with a significant buffer and screening from detached single-family homes. The developer stated the homeowner to the west provided feedback at the Planning Commission meeting, and he was okay with 65-foot-wide sites. He added Tom Dean to the north is also amenable to 65-foot widths. He noted this type of development is very popular in the real estate market right now, and hopefully the details can be worked through, so it meets other aspects of the Ordinance. Councilmember Musgrove asked whether any lots would be 80-feet wide. The developer stated the intention is to have 65-feet wide lots on the north and west, and the rest would be attached townhomes. He added lots 1-18 are 65-foot-wide home sites, with townhomes and attached single family homes further south. He added the density transitioning Ordinance would be taken into consideration with 45 feet of buffering zone. Councilmember Musgrove asked whether all the lots could be 65-foot-wide single-family lots. The developer stated a need for townhomes has been identified in today’s market in Ramsey. He added townhomes are very popular as they are maintained by an association but still have home ownership value and are more affordable than a detached home. He noted attached townhomes fulfill the City’s Comprehensive Plan guidance for providing a range of housing for a variety of ages and incomes. The developer stated the single-family units to the north are included because they are cognizant that there are larger existing homes to the north and west. Councilmember Woestehoff asked whether the developer would do 80-foot-wide lots on the north and west boundaries. He asked whether there is a secondary entrance from Armstrong Boulevard. City Council / August 24, 2021 Page 10 of 14