09-23-2014 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Minutes Page 4 September 23,2014 reviewed as a CUP. The distinction between cars and trucks is noise and fumes,which can be regulated with conditions in a CUP. Commissioner Konietzko asked what the timeframe was to review the FAST zoning amendment. Mr. Leeseberg stated that Mr. Barnhart, Community Operations & Development Deputy Director,hopes to review the FAST area rezoning in October. Instead of trying to process a rezoning at this time, staff is suggesting that the Commission wait until the FAST rezoning is completed. Annie Deckert, of Decklan Group,reviewed GATR Trucking's existing operations. She stated that they are interested in relocating in Elk River. She noted that other communities she surveyed do not differentiate between auto sales and service and truck sales and service. She asked that the Planning Commission recommend that the Council pursue an ordinance amendment to allow truck sales/service in the C-3 zoning district. Commissioner Johnson asked when Ms. Deckert's client would like to locate in Elk River. Ms. Deckert stated that he would like to either break ground or move into an existing building this year. Chair Johnson asked what other sites they are looking at. Ms. Deckert stated that her client would not like her to divulge that information. She stated that they are also looking at other cities but that Elk River is their number one choice. Commissioner Johnson asked if her client has any issues with the access. Ms. Deckert stated no. Commissioner Larson-Vito asked if her client is aware of the proposed intersection changes. Ms. Deckert stated yes. Chair Johnson stated he had concerns that a business owner would want to locate his office a long way down a road that would essentially be a long cul-de-sac. Mr. Leeseberg explained the timing of an ordinance amendment. He stated that the city could initiate the ordinance amendment. Mr. Leeseberg discussed the issue of the Comprehensive Plan ordinance amendment in progress and how an amendment to add truck sales/service would be impacted. Discussion followed regarding the use in the C-3 zoning district. Commissioner Johnson stated that he felt it would be a good fit. Commissioner Larson-Vito stated that she felt it would be premature to make a change in the C-3 uses when a great deal of C-3 property will be impacted by the FAST zoning changes. Mr. Leeseberg reviewed past discussions during the Comprehensive Plan review regarding uses in this area. Commissioner Keller stated he had concerns with truck traffic on Yale Street in the residential area. He stated he did not have a problem with truck sales in the C-3 district. Chair Johnson and Commissioner Konietzko concurred. Chair Johnson noted that he would agree with the use,provided it were a CUP.