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<br />Mr. Murphy replied as far as the maximum square footage, a certain amount of square footage is <br />needed to accommodate the single level living; the main floor needs to be about I, I 75 feet, which is <br />not extremely large. Regarding the mass of the buildings, there is an additional story that will add <br />mass. This project was designed for empty nesters with main floor living, with additional areas for <br />visitors on the second level with two more bedrooms and a bath. Design is very important. <br />Regarding the exterior, he has talked with an architect about setting one building up a little higher <br />than the other; that would add separation and would create some architecture. The price point right <br />now is about $285,000; about $275,000 for bare bones, and close to $300,000 for a unit decked out <br />with amenities. He does not think there is much more that could be done to add to this, but he <br />would be willing to look at something like this. He would like to find something that would make <br />the Council happy. Mr. Murphy stated he is representing the owner, Mr. Holmes, and they have <br />had many talks about how to do this. He is interested in finding a way that the Council would be <br />happy and finding the right mix to get this done. His major concern is that the number of units <br />economically is likely the most important thing to being able to make this work financially. This <br />project is not a windfall for anyone; they are just trying to find the best use for a small mismatched <br />parcel in Ramsey. He is willing to do what he can, and will go back to the drawing board if he has <br />to. He would like a strong feeling from the Council to know that what he comes up with will <br />hopefully meet what the Council is looking for. <br /> <br />Councilmember Olson stated she would like to see this project move forward; it is the best use of <br />this parcel she has seen. However, she also agrees that this is massive, and she would like to see <br />variation. She suggested the use of stone instead of brick on one or two of the buildings, with some <br />variation in the columns. that lead to the font door. There should be something that gives <br />architectural interest to separate the buildings. <br /> <br />Councilmember Jeffrey stated he can support the project with a few odds and ends. He suggested <br />the possibility of a variance or a more environmentally friendly paver in order to stagger the <br />buildings. <br /> <br />Associate Planner Geisler indicated the Council's suggestions can be looked at. If the Council is in <br />general agreement with the twinhome concept and is comfortable proceeding they will see this <br />again at final site plan and final plat. <br /> <br />Councilmember Strommen stated she appreciates the challenges of this site and the <br />accommodations and changes the applicant has made thus far. She believes single level living is a <br />product they need in the City. However, she is concerned about the massing of the building. She <br />suggested something to make the landscaping a focal point so there is not the overwhelming wall of <br />building. She expressed hesitance in moving forward much further before she feels comfortable <br />that the suggestions will resolve the concerns. <br /> <br />Mr. Murphy indicated he would be willing to work in a small planning session with the <br />Councilmembers to come up with something for the architecture. He would like some agreement <br />that the project would pass the Council's muster. <br /> <br />City Council / January 9, 2007 <br />Page 16 of 24 <br />