Minutes - Planning Commission - 03/02/2006

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Commissioner Cleveland asked if there are currently homes on this property that have access to a dirt road to Erkium Street. Fire Chief Kapler stated that there is, and that there is no hydrant in the area. Commissioner Van Scoy noted that there have been a lot of comments on the road there, and the sharp turn it takes. Fire Chief Kapler stated that Public Works drivers have voiced a concern about the hill in the winter time. He noted there would definitely be an increase in traffic and traffic back-up here. He indicated that from a safety concem, that is not the major issue. Commissioner Van Scoy asked what would make this development workable. Fire Chief Kapler stated that the connection of 177th would be a big plus. He indicated that shortening of the cul-de-sac is also important. Commissioner Brauer noted that the City has had other cul-de-sacs that go beyond the established lengths. He asked if it was the Fire Chief's feeling that the Planning Commission should keep them within the established length. Fire Chief Kapler indicated that with the cluster ordinance they might have a problem with troubled properties that are hard to get to develop. He stated that he would recommend denying this from a public safety standpoint. Public Input Commission Input Vice Chairperson Johnson opened the public hearing at 7:35 p.m. Tom Adriaens, 17680 Argon Street, stated he is in the eastem part of the neighborhood. He indicated there are a lot of concerns. He indicated that when they heard it would be 16 lots on 40 acres they did not like it, but knew they could not stop it. He stated what they did not know was that with the cluster ordinance they would be small lots of one-quarter acre, with a community septic system. Mr. Adrians stated that he thinks Ramsey is moving too quick. He indicated that cluster developments are not working in other cities. He stated Ramsey is doing a big study in 2008, and asked why there is a hurry to approve this now. He indicated there are a lot of trees and swamps that will be rearranged, and the curve on the road is a real problem. He stated there is already too much traffic for that intersection to handle. He indicated that from what he is reading the plan is to put another 35 homes out there later. He stated that he has concerns about that, and the Commission can tell from the turn out that others do too. He indicated he was sad to hear that Staffthinks this is the right thing to do because they are obviously not listening to the people. Planning Commission/March 2, 2006 Page 6 of 31