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BUILT ENVIRONMENTS, INC. <br />651-439-9396 (P) • 651-204-2247 (F) • WWW.BUILT-ENVIRONMENTS.COM <br />680 HALE AVENUE N. SUITE 140 • OAKDALE, MINNESOTA 55128 <br />June 21, 2023 <br />Todd A. Larson <br />Planning Manager <br />City of Ramsey <br />7550 Sunwood Drive NW <br />Ramsey, MN 55303 <br />Re: Draft Zoning Code Update <br />Dear Mr. Larson, <br />I would like to take this opportunity to formally comment on the draft zoning code. As you know, the <br />proposed code explicitly prohibits the use of Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) on townhomes, <br />rowhomes, and multi -family buildings. It also limits EIFS to accent material on commercial buildings. <br />During our phone conversation on May 5, 2023, I was made aware that these proposed restrictions reflect <br />concerns regarding aesthetics and architectural preferences. Also stated were the city's visions for enhanced <br />architectural standards and the desire to limit monotonous and monolithic design — an aesthetic often <br />perceived for rendered claddings such as EIFS and stucco. This view of EIFS as a drab, expressionless material <br />reflects past trends and unimaginative design. It does not showcase the diversity and richness of colors, <br />textures, and styles associated with contemporary EIFS. <br />I have attached several examples of modern EIFS finishes that are expressed throughout the country, including <br />the greater Twin Cities area. Local architectural firms have gained tremendous familiarity with these <br />expressions, which are readily achievable by a large pool of skilled applicators. It should be noted that such <br />enhanced aesthetics do not infer greater costs when compared to other materials used on multi -family and <br />commercial buildings. Indeed, the cost advantages of EIFS are readily apparent when considering current <br />energy code mandates for exterior insulation — an inherent component of EIFS. <br />I recognize that the draft code has provisions for alternative compliance as contained in Section 580 (B) (5). <br />This provision reads, "Other materials as may be approved by the Planning Commission and City Council given <br />the building's use and context". While seemingly inclusive, this compliance path is vague, overly burdensome, <br />potentially cost prohibitive — and, in essence, tantamount to the stated restrictions. <br />Built Environments, Inc. <br />City of Ramsey: Proposed Zoning Code Page 1 of 8 <br />