July 6, 1995 Steering Committee Minutes

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Steering Committee Minutes July 6, 1995 Page 3 Ten Acre Minimum Pat Dwyer indicated he was in favor of preserving the 10 acre minimum lot size in the A-1 zoning district. He stated that he felt the goal of the City is orderly development by expanding the urban service district outward, and not allow smaller lot sizes in outlying areas. Chair Minton reported he received a letter from Bob Dare, resident on County Road 33. Mr. Dare stated he and his neighbors were not in favor of changing the 10 acre minimum lot size. Arne Engstrom stated he also felt the City should develop from the core area outward, in order to provide necessary services in a cost effective manner. Discussion followed regarding cluster housing in the A-1 zoning district. Steve Ach explained the concept of clustering homes. He noted advantages such as fewer roads being required, and the perception of open space is preserved. Steve explained that the open space could be maintained by utilizing a conservation easement, convenants and/or restrictions; however, the use of these types of restrictions need to be carefully reviewed to determine the benefit and disadvantages. Steve indicated that clustering is not a new concept, rather a subdivision method that is not understood by most developers. Arne Engstrom suggested the clustering concept could be applied in the Rio zoning district as well. Dick Hinkle expressed his concern that the open spaces would need to maintained by someone, as there could be problems with noxious weeds and gophers. Arne Engstrom suggested recommendations for shared driveways along county roads to reduce access points. Dave Anderson stated he was in favor of defining the urban service area, and that the rest of the community be developed in a unique fashion to preserve the rural character. He stated he was in favor of the 10 acre minimum to preserve the farms, not for future sewer and water. Dave suggested than an option be allowed for clustering, in addition to the existing 4 per 40 rule(10 acre minimum). He suggested a 2-1/2 acre density overall, with a minimum of 1 acre lot size and require 50% open space with some sort of conservation easement. Pat Dwyer stated he would like to see the 4 per 40 development in the northern area, which would attract hobby farm development. Arne Engstrom expressed his concern how the open space would be affected by property taxes. Dave Anderson stated it was his understanding that when land is put into a conservation easement; the landowner receives a deduction off his Federal taxes. The deduction is determined by the value of the land when it is sold versus the value as conservation easement space; therefore, benefiting