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<br />trying to do with this site. The price point for these twin homes will be $275,000 to $285,000, <br />likely close to $300,000 with options and amenities. The use of this land does not have real <br />value in a single family or business use, and with the municipal water that was put through the <br />owner of the property is now paying his assessments and taxes as if this parcel is improved <br />without the ability to move forward and do anything with it. <br /> <br />Councilmember Dehen stated he appreciates Mr. Murphy's comments, but he will not vote in <br />favor of this given there was such vehement opposition during his campaign and the opposition <br />from the neighbors reflected in the minutes. <br /> <br />CouncilmemberOlson verified with Mr. Murphy that there will be an association involved with <br />the development. <br /> <br />Councilmember Strommen expressed concern that it is difficult to visualize the appearance of <br />how the buildings will appear as a group with the difference in the dormers without a full front <br />elevation being provided. <br /> <br />Mr. Murphy indicated Council will be provided with a front view elevation of all three buildings <br />with offsets and staggering. <br /> <br />Councilmember Look stated this is the fourth submittal for this development. He did not think <br />the second or third submittals looked great, but he is leaning towards those after reviewing this <br />submittal. He expressed concern that the overall appearance of the robotic look of the one <br />dormer over the other does not compliment each other. He pointed out the nice appearance of <br />the Rottlund development on University Avenue in Fridley with townhomes. He stated <br />Councilmember Dehen is right that the people are up in arms over these types of structures going <br />into their neighborhoods. This is a battle that will continue to be fought based on the number of <br />townhomes that have gone into Ramsey. From an aesthetic standpoint, he has not really seen <br />any changes in what has been submitted. <br /> <br />Mr. Murphy stated this is not a project that is proposing 30 units where thousands of dollars can <br />be spent on architectural fees. There are limitations on the architectural renderings in the <br />software, but it is usually sufficient. They have tried to find a floor plan that allows single level <br />living with a main floor bathroom and bedroom for the elderly. The townhomes on University <br />A venue that Councilmember Look referred to are all two, three and four level living, which is <br />not what they felt the market was for here. There are dozens of vacant townhomes in the City <br />right now. He is trying to fill the need for one-floor living. In addition, the shape of the lot <br />limits what can be done. <br /> <br />Councilmember Look replied he agrees there is a need for retirement living in the City; however, <br />he believes the market is soft to be selling this project. He would also argue on the location <br />behind Super Bowl; he does not think they will sell. The bottom line is they are going up against <br />social pressure and concern about these types of structures. The Council represents the City at <br />large, and with the amount of discontent voiced on these issues they have to represent that. <br /> <br />City Council Work Session I March 20, 2007 <br />Page 7 or 13 <br />