Minutes - Planning Commission - 10/21/1997 - Special Meeting

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Chairperson Bawden called the special meeting back to order at 6:40 p.m. COMMISSION BUSINESS Case #1: Request for Revised Site Plan Review for a Comfort Suites Hotel: Case of L.A.N.D. Properties Zoning Administrator Frolik stated that in 1996, the City Council approved a site plan for L.A.N.D. Properties to develop a retail center on Lot 1, Block 1, Riverview Estates. That site plan has been revised to accommodate the development of a Comfort Suites hotel. She explained that site plans are not required to be subjected to a public hearing. However, this particular site plan also requires a variance to building height restrictions which does require a public hearing. Through the public heating notice for the variance, the residential properties to the south of the site will be informed of the pending hotel development. Commissioner Thorud inquired how many units were being proposed for the hotel. Craig Miller, Miller Architects and Builders, stated there are 65 proposed units with room for an expansion of 24 units. He stated the green space for the hotel plan has been increased along Riverdale Drive. He indicated the proposed hotel has a reduced footage of 9,000 square feet, as opposed to the retail center previously proposed. John Freeburg, 6356 Riverdale Drive NW, stated concern regarding litter along Riverdale Drive and asked if there would be measures to prevent or amend the problem. Commissioner Deemer questioned the material used for the decorative metal roofs. Mr. Miller stated the metal roofs would be bronze in color and would be above the pool enclosure and the entrance to the hotel. He advised accents to the hotel would be dark brown framing grills. Commissioner Jensen asked about the waste enclosure and its' appearance. Mr. Miller stated the waste enclosure would be constructed out of block with a synthetic cover. Mr. Freeburg indicated concern regarding the Ampride facility located near his home and the lighting from the building. He questioned if the lighting issue was being addressed with L.A.N.D. Properties. City Engineer Jankowski advised a specification of allowable fixtures is being dratted and will be sent to business owners for compliance. Commissioner Deemer stated the Planning Commission is aware of the lighting situation with Ampride and is attempting to resolve the problem. Commissioner Thorud inquired on the hotel's signage. Mr./Wfiler indicated the sign would be located in the middle-front portion of the hotel and would comply with the City sign ordinance. Motion by Commissioner Deemer, seconded by Commissioner Terry, to recommend that City Council approve the proposed site plan for L.A.N.D. Properties on Lot 1 Block 1, Riverview Estates, contingent upon compliance with the October 16, 1997 City Staff review letter and obtaining a DNR certified variance to height restrictions. Planning Commission/October 21, 1997 Page 2 of 5