Minutes - Planning Commission - 08/26/2021

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Commissioner Gengler asked why a basement conversion would not be allowed. Planning Technician McCann stated that if someone wanted to convert a basement there would not be a way for the City to monitor that. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated that some people are doing that already. She noted that if there is access to that basement area from the front door, a kitchenette could be added and a secondary living space for a family member could be created. Commissioner VanScoy stated that he called some other communities to gather information. He stated that he spoke with Andover city staff and that city stated that they receive inquiries while they do not see many of those requests move forward. He noted that Nowthen and Anoka do not allow this type of activity and asked how many other communities actually allow this activity. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl provided information on the cities that were selected, noting that most were chosen because there was a connection to the city staff and the ordinances were known to work well. Commissioner VanScoy asked if there is a minimum lot size specified for other communities, noting that Andover requires 2.5 acres. Commissioner Peters stated that if his neighbor were putting up a yurt or tiny home on his property, which is an 80-foot-wide lot, he would be opposed to that as he would believe the lot is too shall. He stated that if the property is larger and meets the criteria, he would not be opposed. Commissioner VanScoy asked what would be considered a reasonable sized lot. Commissioner Gengler stated that she does not believe a lot would need to be huge to have an accessory building. She stated that sheds are already allowed and therefore she does not believe it would need to be a huge property. She stated that she would be comfortable allowing it on an 80-foot-wide lot in the R-1 zone. Commissioner Walker stated that he would support a one -acre size, but also does not like excluding people from an opportunity to telling them to do on their own property. Chairperson Bauer stated that perhaps more information could be gained on what is allowed by other communities, such as minimum lot size and any issues they have experienced. Commissioner Walker commented that parking would be an issue on an 80-foot lot if there is an accessory dwelling structure. He stated that at least a half -acre or full acre lot would be needed in order to accommodate an accessory dwelling unit and parking. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl commented that in order to maintain the character of a rural community, you would not want additional parking structures or driveways. She stated that staff believes that the property should still look like a single-family home. She noted that if there are Planning Commission/ August 26, 2021 Page 19 of 26