Agenda - Council - 02/25/2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Recreational Development Lake and land· within 1000 feet of the Ordinary High Water mark are required to comply with the shoreland regulations. These regulations include a minimum of 15,000 square feet for each lot and a width of 75 feet at the building line. Under the Shoreland Ordinances, a PUD that alters the minimum dimensional standards can be considered, bUt must- be approved· by the Minnesota Department of Natural ResoUrces before the City approves the development. The developer and City staff met with Tom Hovey from the DNR, who felt that the development is far enough fi'om the shoreline that the lot size ·wouldn't be an issue. He did indicate that the DNR would want to ensure adequate greenspace, and reminded the developer that the DNR would need to sign off on the final plan. " · : Paul Kangas from Loucks and Associates addressed the Commissi°m He indicated this is an exciting project for the community. He highlighted the numerous open areas on the sketch plan and the use of trails to connect the green, space. He indicated the smaller lots Were chosen because of sky-rocketing land values. He stated that the only difference between the proposed single family homes and the association maintained cottages were lifeStyle preferences. All of the structures are detached single family homes on. same sized lots. This will maintain the consistency of character throughout the development. He stated a significant number of trees would be retained around the exterior of the development. He men~i0ned that a neighborhoOd meeting had been held and this was one of the c°ncems. He added that-some dead brash and thorny species of vegetation would be removed, leaving the mOre.desirable trees. He stated that each structure is shown as a 40 x 60 footprint, which may not accurately reflect the layout of the home when built. He added that in most cases garages will be set back fi'om the home, whereas' the sketch plan shows them even with or in front of the home. He indic.ated that due to the numerous greenspaces provided and the presence of a park to the northwest of the development, they are expecting that park dedication fees will be requested. He indicated the neighbors who attended the information meeting had concerns about· the trails along the abutting property, as well as the street connections that Would be made. The issUe of density transition .was also mentioned..The developers feel that with the landscape buffers proposed they can meet the intent of the density transition ordinance. 'Mr. Kangas stated that additional developments have been completed using smaller lots such as these and. they haVe proven it can work. He added that' mn-off ponds have been created and the develoPers don't expect any mn-off to occur eXcept within the development. He further added that there would be one boulevard through the development, which would be enhanced by landscaPed entrances, The developers are. very concerned about saving vegetation when possible. He stated there are three wetland areas.. TWo· will be filled, the third on the east side will be preserved in its current state. Chairperson Nixt indicated .this is not a public hearing, hOWever .once the Commission has asked their questions he would briefly allow residents in attendance to comment. :'He stated the Commission needed more information to make a good decision: Chairperson. N/xt asked What had been done at Sunfish Lake Estates and CheStnut Ridge to meet the 1'5,000 square foot lot size requirements. Principal Planner Tmdgeon indicated he did not know, Planning Commission/January 2, 2003 Page 3 of 10