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

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Larry Henke, 14311 Armstrong Boulevard stated he appreciates the comments made by the proposed owners but this is not a jewelry store. He acknowledged that Mr. Graber is a responsible person but this proposal mixes an activity with alcohol which is hard to control. Mr. Henke requested the City consider the hours allowed and stated he does not believe later hours on weekends is appropriate. He stated another issue relates to screening and soundproofing the outdoor activity and patio which he believes should be enclosed. With respect to the noise control, Mr. Henke stated an eight foot fence is being proposed but he feels this is not very high when considering this type of activity and associated noise level. He asked the City to take a good look at the recommendation for other types of barriers such as trees and plantings to assure it will subdue noise adequately. Mr. Henke stated that high intensity lights are being proposed and he is concerned about the way it disburses and its impact on the neighborhood. Mr. Henke stated this is within 1,100 feet of Alpaca Estates and is an open corridor. He stated if residents can hear noise fi.om the Lighthouse Bar, they will hear this noise and it needs to be addressed. John Brekke, 14275 Alpaca, stated his comments have already been voiced by others. He stated the map on display shows his property abutting Outlot A and explained his house faces the ballfield so he is concerned about the proposed fields due to noise and lighting issues. Mr. Brekke stated they just moved into Ramsey in September and understood businesses would be located close to their home. They have no objection to light industrial or the restaurant but are concerned about the lighting and potential for noise, and people partying. Mr. Brekke stated residents can now appreciate the view of the evening sky and he is concerned that this will be lost due to the lighting of the fields. He stated the 1,100 foot distance is not very far and, if this is approved and noise is an issue, he would be forced to move. Mr. Brekke stated they enjoy the area and would hate to move. He stated he understands the tax benefit fi'om this business but he would be willing to pay higher property taxes to eliminate this potential. Mr. Brekke stated if approved and the noise and lights become a problem, it will impact more residents than in attendance tonight. Richard Bouakek, 15566 Kiowa, Andover, stated he is a partner of the project. He stated they appreciate the residents's comments and concerns. He stated it is important, as mentioned by Mr. Gruber, that all three partners have worked with the community in coaching. He stated he is also a business owner and they intend to work to the highest ethics and are very genuine and honest in their desire to work with the community. He stated they are concerned about the perceived sports bar image and believe the noise issue is very important. Mr. Bouakek stated they do not want a public address system since it would downgrade the image they have of this establishment. He stated this will be a very high level, high integrity establishment and that is the image they want to present. Mr. Bouakek stated he wants to address the noise issue to assure everyone they have no intention of having an outdoor public address system. With regard to the lighting concerns, he stated they will use the most directed light possible to eliminate as much disbursal as possible. He stated they did have an environmental impact study completed. Mr. Bouakek explained that the future plans for Outlot A have only been discussed and they do not have an option on that property. He stated that this establishment will result in 30 to 40 jobs for the community. Mr. Bouakek stated they are interested in community involvement with the City as well as the residents and intend to keep an open door to address any complaints and concerns. Public Hearing/Planning Commission/March 12, 1998 Page 4 of 7