4.1 PCSR 05-27-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Minutes Page 4 April 8,2014 Commissioner Mike Keller stated he had concerns with the proposed future road connection through Cretex's property. Mr. Barnhart explained that this dotted line on the map simply shows a need for additional study for a road connection in this area. Chair Johnson asked if the area north of the Youth Athletic Complex (YAC) fields was identified for future expansion of the athletic fields. Mr. Barnhart explained that YAC was originally constructed because it was "convenient" (the city owned the land). He stated it may be time to look at an alternative site that is more centrally located for the population it serves. Chair Johnson asked if the draft Comprehensive Plan addresses the future use of the landfill, once it is at capacity. Mr. Barnhart stated no. Chair Johnson opened the public hearing. Brian Olson,resident of Becker—stated he has been employed by Cretex since 1975. He expressed his appreciation for the city's efforts in its growth. He stated that Cretex has been a very active member of the Elk River community. Mr. Olson expressed his concern that the proposed road connection as shown would have a significant impact on their business. He explained that the northern portion that would be impacted significantly, as this area is vital as storage space,and is the location of their pre-stress batch plant and casting beds. He asked that the Commission consider a different route for an east-west connection. Commissioner Jill Larson-Vito stated that she lives in this area and asked if there really is a need for this connection. Mr. Barnhart stated that the 2004 Comprehensive Plan identified a need for more east-west corridors,including this one. He explained that the 2004 Transportation Plan,which was adopted the same night as the 2004 Comprehensive Plan, showed a possible road connection in this area. He stated he did not know how the corridor would be routed or how it would be built,but that the goal is to provide as many linkages as possible that do not require going onto Highway 10. He stated that the long term goal is to provide more east-west roads in this area. Commissioner Mike Keller stated that a road through the Cretex property would essentially shut their business down. Mr. Barnhart explained that any road will impact any property and it is unknown when or what will trigger the need. Commissioner Jill Larson-Vito stated that she would not want Cretex to plan to leave the city for a road they might need. She stated she did not see what the road would be connecting and how it would be a benefit. Peter Beck, City Attorney, stated that if the city continues to develop, there may be a need for a road connection in this area and the city needs to plan for that potential. He stated that the chance of the city acquiring the property from Cretex is almost nil. He stated that having a dotted line on the land use map simply shows that a future connection may be needed in this area. He stated he felt it was important to plan for the future, since the city could change significantly in 20—30 years. He stated that if the city tried to acquire the property adversely,it would not happen.