Agenda - Planning Commission - 04/28/2022

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Commissioner Gengler asked the approximate areas of the patios in front of the doors. Mr. Palmby stated that they have been discussing that and the patio would go about four to five feet out and extend past the canopy above the door. Ms. Becker stated that the City could set a minimum size for that patio area. Commissioner Anderson stated that he is in agreement with Commissioner VanScoy. He commented that the proposed buildings look like Lego blocks and he does not prefer that style. He believed there should be covers on the steps. He asked whether there was a moratorium on townhomes in the City. Senior Planner Anderson commented that the moratorium applies to City owned land and for multi-family apartment buildings. Commissioner Anderson stated that he does not care for the proposed designs. He stated that he would want to see a different style building if this comes forward formally. Commissioner Walker commented that there is a group that owns the property and will be investing money to complete the project. He stated that if they build something that people do not want to buy, that will fall onto them, not the City. He stated that perhaps this is a more modern design versus traditional. He commented that while he would not purchase a home like this, if the applicant believes it could be sold, they should be allowed to move forward. Commissioner Gengler agreed that styles and tastes vary from person to person. She stated that she finds the buildings to be attractive. She stated that she agrees with having a strong front entrance that encourages people to be out and pedestrian friendly. She believed that the patio would encourage that activity more than some of the front porches that exist on other townhomes. She believed the patio reaches the goal. Commissioner Peters also commented that he likes the look of the buildings. Commissioner VanScoy stated that the City has had a requirement for the townhomes in The COR to have some sort of porch. He asked how many of those homes are currently vacant, as the comment was made that this is not a desire in the market. Senior Planner Anderson stated that he would not have that figure. Deputy City Administrator/Community Development Director Hagen commented that the townhomes are individually owned and are not rental units. He stated that the vacancy rate of the apartments is very low and therefore would suspect that the homes are well occupied. Commissioner VanScoy commented that he has not noticed for sale signs for lengths of time. He stated that since The COR was initiated, the intent was to have a certain basic view of how things would be to encourage variety but also consistency. He stated that this townhome model does not Planning Commission/ March 24, 2022 Page 14 of 18