Minutes - Planning Commission - 02/04/1997

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Commissioner Jensen noted that the Commission has been heating a common theme from residents relating to development saturation. This is a big issue for the City of Ramsey and should be considered by the City Council. Residents keep asking for more green space, and them is only a small amount shown on this plan. She would also like the City to consider clustering houses to preserve more green space, as is being done in other communities. Commissioner Deemer noted that because there has been a study of the Highway 47 corridor, any access allowed at this time would be temporary until implementation of the future plan. Access to Highway 47 will always be allowed but may be changed in the future. Mr. Johnson stated that with an upscale development, there should be a single entrance off' Highway 47 to prevent the disruption and safety risks to surrounding neighborhoods. A compromise approach would be appreciated by neighbors. Mr. Michael Purvis, 6025 157th Lane N.W., asked what would happen to his well with three or four more water towers. He stated that emergency access will be difficult unless the development is one house per acre. Mr. Peterson apologized for failing to communicate accurately at the neighborhood meeting. If this proposal is approved, the park dedication fee will be over $126,000 to the City for parks. He agreed with Commissioner Deemer that the access to Highway 47 can only be temporary and will change if another access is opened in the future. The current property owner has rights to access Highway 47, and it would be expensive for the state to purchase those access rights. He stated that it is the developer's obligation to make sure there is not a worse drainage situation. He would like to continue to work with the neighborhood to make it as palatable as possible. Approximately two-thirds of the homes would access from the direction of Highway 47, and 47 homes would access from the west. Efforts are being made to balance traffic within the reasonable limitations of the streets. Commissioner Deemer suggested creating a cul-de-sac to minimize traffic impact on 158th. Mr. Passe responded that he would prefer to put a cul-de-sac in, but it would increase traffic on 157th. One resident noted that there is an oak wilt problem on some of the trees on the site. Since the disease spreads through the roots, he asked what impact there will be with construction, and whether the developer will guarantee not to spread oak wilt and be liable if it does spread. Commissioner Deemer stated that trenches can be dug to cut the roots and prevent spread of the disease. However, the City cannot force the developer to trench the boundary to prevent the spread of oak wilt. Motion by Commissioner Holland, seconded by Commissioner Deemer to direct the developer to note the issues discussed at this meeting and proceed to apply for preliminary plat approval through the public hearing process. Planning Commission/February 4, 1997 Page 9 of 15