Minutes - Planning Commission - 01/24/2002 - Jt PC CC (2)

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pick on one land owner especially when the higher densities can be placed in the town center area. She stated that she would like to see discussions focus on town center site because she felt that they could solve two problems by bringing services into the City and keep high density out of people's back yards. Mr. Bertzyk stated that in the recently adopted Comprehensive Plan the Met Council suggested a population growth of 18 percent by the year 2008, which would not even account for their own children. James Ross, 6200 145th Lane NW, Ramsey, stated that in regards to parcel 910 he believes that the property owner has a right as a landowner to do what is best for them, but would like to see the integrity of the neighborhood to remain the same. Some of the discussions have become trivial and as adults he felt they can state their opinion without going to the he said she said argument. John Feges, Andover, MN, stated that he empathizes with everyone's concern regarding urban sprawl. He stated that everyone talks about community and community development, but they don't have strong imagery. To be open and fair with everyone people need to understand that everyone wants a good plan. He presented an example of a design of a cluster development that would save a large area of green space. He stated that people can't just focus on density, but also need to consider how the land will be developed and the overall character of the development in relation to the area. Jamie Sharp, 7346 149th Avenue NW, Ramsey, expressed concern with the land use change requested by Bright Keys. He stated that he would prefer that the land use stay as single family residential. He also requested that his property be included in the MUSA expansion. He noted that his property is Lot 1 of the Pineview Addition. Ms. Hunter commended Chairperson Nixt for "taking the high road" on the meeting and keeping the personal issues out of the discussion. She stated that she wanted to address the school population issue. She explained that it has been a bit of a misnomer that high density brings in more children to the area. She stated that she has been very involved with the school district and she to has some concerns, but also felt that there are things that need to be aggressively addressed in terms of budgeting. Ms. Hunter stated that when the Pulte developed came forward they talked about .2 children per housing unit. She questioned what an average single family would bring in terms of additional children. A medium density development would be marketing to singles, empty nesters, seniors, and young couples. Mr. Feges stated that the latest evolution of townhouses and cluster homes is different than what they saw with townhomes in the late 70's. Typically the townhomes are absorbed by the senior members of the community and who don't want to leave the area yet, but want to have less responsibility. There is more of a trend for upscale congregate houses. The big key is the detail in the design to maintain the character of the community. Planning Commission Joint Meeting/January 24, 2002 Page 10 of 14