Minutes - Planning Commission - 03/12/1998 - Public Hearing @ 7:35

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Brekke asked the Planning Commission to look at this application closely to see if there can be any compromises and ways to redirect traffic out of the neighborhood. She asked the City to watch the closing times and to assure those that should not be, are not driving. Ms. Brekke stated she heard the developer is considering buying Lot 8 for an ice arena. She stated she believes that would be an asset and has no objection but, once purchased, they could make other use of it such as another ballfield which would be adjacent to her property line. She asked if the City can assure residents that this will not take place and stated the residents are concerned that if these issues are not adequately addressed, they will be impacted by reduced property values. Ms. Brekke stated she has spoken to the developers who have indicated they do not want to disrupt the neighborhood and want to address resident's concerns by placing slats in the fence, not using an outdoor public address system, will only use Class 8 lighting to eliminate glare, and will use preventative measures such as taxi service. Ms. Brekke stated this will provide some relief and suggested these assurances be obtained in writing from the developer. Karen Brown, 7851 - 142nd Avenue NW, stated she and her husband have been residents for 24 years and they have owned a business in Ramsey for 15 years. She stated that up to now it has been peaceful until last year when the tent at the Lighthouse Bar was allowed on weekends with bands that caused disruption. Ms. Brown stated she now needs to close her windows every weekend night but the noise permeates the house anyway. She stated she does not oppose a restaurant and bar coming into the area and believes it will be an asset as long as it is run by responsible business owners. She stated she has had the opportunity to be involved in the business community and has seen where CUP conditions have been violated and knows it takes a lot of effort to assure those conditions are maintained. Ms. Brown asked the Planning Commission to make a responsible decision and enforce the Noise Ordinance which is not very specific in its requirements. She stated they are 1.5 miles from the Lighthouse Bar and have complained about the noise to the Police Department and City, but to no avail. She stated she appreciates the research done by her neighbors and she wants to assure responsible business owners in the area. Bart Ward, 2408 Fourth Avenue N, stated he lives in Anoka and is from a family with a long history in this town. He stated the issues voiced by residents are about noise control, traffic, and seven- nights a week noise but he suspects the Highway 10 corridor will be an important development area and there will be a number of other projects and increased traffic along this corridor. Mr. Ward stated that he is not sure how this will be handled by the City or accepted by the residents. He stated that mention was made about a responsible business person being involved in this project and he does not believe there is a more responsible business person than Gary Gruber who he has known for almost 15 years. Mr. Ward reviewed the community projects which Mr. Gruber has been involved in to improve the community and stated that Mr. Gruber is also involved with his family. Mr. Ward stated Mr. Graber is also experienced in the area of parks, the City, and goodness in general. He noted this project will increase taxes, provide good food, and good old-fashioned healthy entertainment. Mr. Ward stated he believes Mr. Gruber can do this and do it well. He stated that he understands the importance of privacy but he believes the resident's concerns can be addressed to assure they are well protected. Mr. Ward stated this is a fine project and he will work hard to assure it goes through. Public Hearing/Planning Commission/March 12, 1998 Page 3 of 7