Agenda - Council - 12/14/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Senior Planner McGuire Brigl explained that is an on the ground survey of what was actually built and is provided upon completion. She noted that as-builts are required in different areas, such as near wetlands or along the Mississippi River. Commissioner VanScoy asked and received confirmation that because the exception property is zoned MUSA, transitioning would not be required. Citizen Input Jon and Jake Packer, representing the Makowski family, stated that the land above parcel D is also owned by one of their family members and is choosing to stay in the home with the development being built. He commented that they are present to address any questions someone may have related to the family. Ben Schmidt, Sotarra Development, stated that they started working on this more than two years ago with an idea for smaller lots and a more mixed community which was denied. He stated that as they went through the process, they were able to make changes and present a plan that fits in the area and is sensitive to existing uses while providing new homes in Ramsey. Jeff Uecker, 17121 Variolite Street, stated that his family has lived in Ramsey since 1995 and there have been many changes. He believed that this project would be not so good for the neighborhood. He stated that there are ten acre lots that come up by quarter acre lots. He was unsure how the property can go from rural preserve to this type of development. He stated that he never received a letter or opportunity to provide input on the zoning. He believed that people should have had an opportunity to speak about the change in zoning. He did not understand why larger lots were not kept on the outside with smaller lots on the interior of the development. He stated that his neighbor is present but is not comfortable coming forward to speak but noted that his neighbor agrees with his comments. Chairperson Bauer asked staff to provide details on the rezoning and those that were notified. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl displayed a copy of the notice for the rezoning public hearing which was held on March 3, 2011 and advised that the topic was also discussed at two City Council meetings. She stated that everything was rezoned properly, although noted that perhaps staff would have done things differently now than they did in the past. Chairperson Bauer stated that this is legally zoned R-1 for 80-foot lots and this proposal is in compliance with the zoning, therefore the Commission cannot deny the request simply because they do not want 80-foot lots. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl confirmed that is correct. She noted that there are items in which the Commission has discretion and other times,such as this when the Commission has to determine if a request meets the requirements of the zoning code, ordinances, and Comprehensive Plan. She stated that if a request complies with the requirements, the request would be allowed. She stated that there are things the City can do to make it better, such as road upgrades, park facilities, and Planning Commission/ October 28, 2021 Page 3 of 23