5.1. SR 03-03-1997 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

EXCERPT OF MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 25, 1997 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING - ITEM 6.5. 6.5. Derrick Investment Request for Amendment to PUD A.qreement, Public Hearing Hearinq Case No. CU 96-19 Staff report by Steve Ach. Derrick Investment is requesting an amendment to the planned unit development for the Cottages of Elk River, eliminating the residency requirement of the project's intent to be a housing development for active adults 55 and older. Roger Derrick, developer of the project, stated market research of their recent other developments in Eagan, Rochester and Albert Lee has indicated the need to open residency of the townhome project to all ages. Mr. Derrick explained the research firm has suggested either eliminating the age restriction or, eliminate the clubhouse. When surveying potential buyers, the majority favored eliminating the 55 years and older restriction and keeping the clubhouse. Mr. Derrick stated if the age restriction were removed, he could not legally turn away people with children. He noted the development would not cater to families and there would be no play area. Mr. Derrick also felt the parking issue could be addressed. Chair Anderson opened the public hearing. Ellie Kretsch, 11865 193rd Avenue, expressed her disappointment with Mr. Derrick, stating the residents had worked hard with him to resolve issues which were based on the fact the development would be for residents 55 years and older. Ms. Kretsch felt Mr. Derrick should have done his research before the development was presented to the city. Judith Gesch, 12255 191st Avenue, stated she was very disappointed with Mr. Derrick's decision to eliminate the residency requirement. She expressed concerns regarding, parking, density, and garbage pickup. Ms. Gesch explained she has had bad experiences where mixed ages are allowed in the proposed type of housing development. Donna Loudin, 11837 193rd Avenue, indicated her concern that Mr. Derrick was attempting to change the residency requirement, since the fact that the development would be for senior was the factor that finally "sold" the neighborhood on the project. She stated if the project had originally been proposed for open residency, she would have opposed it and supported single family residential instead. She urged the Planning Commission to deny the request. Gerry Loudin, 11837 193rd Avenue, stated he strongly urged the Planning Commission to reject Mr. Derrick's request. He felt traffic and density issues were taken into consideration based on the "55 years and older", and these issues would be viewed entirely different if the development were open to all ages. Mr. Derrick explained he would like to eliminate the residency restriction in order to market to a wider range of potential buyers. He noted his target is to sell all of the units within 3 years. Mr. Derrick explained he is making this request now to