05-08-2001 PC MIN - SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission May 8,2001 Page 8 . that he appreciated the efforts of Brookstone, but felt that more input is needed from other developers. Mr. Martens explained that in all of the buildings shown in the video, there is consistency in the use of either raked or smooth faced concrete tip-up panels. The use of design techniques and other materials sets the morel appealing buildings apart from the plain, gray, rectangular box-type buildings. Ms. McPherson stated that the City has received a booklet of design styles by Kraus-Anderson Construction Co. recently, which she distributed to the Commission for their review. Designs included cornice detailing, facades that are either recessed or set out, concrete block columns, radius corners, interesting entry features, etc. Commissioner Baker questioned where the more "plain" type buildings would be appropriate. Ms. McPherson stated that the unpainted block buildings or basic concrete buildings would found in the Medium Industrial zoning district. The higher standards for the Business Park District were adopted in order to promote higher quality businesses and more jobs. Ms. McPherson stated that they are trying to balance the developer's need to utilize a certain building material with the City's desire to have architecturally interesting buildings. It is the City's intent to promote Elk River as a vibrant community; to let people know that there are jobs here, and viable businesses which provide services not only to Elk River. but the surrounding community, as well. . Mr. Martens stated that they have no intention of locating a purely "distribution center" type business in the Elk River Business Park, as was shown in some of the examples in the video. Ms. McPherson stated that language could be added to require the building facades include one or more of the following: changes in depth, cornice detailing, etc. City Attorney Peter Beck stated that most quality ordinances do include a percentage for detailing. Mr. Gleekel, representing Elk River Associated Investors, stated they did not have a problem with using a percentage. Commissioner Baker stated that the buildings he preferred in the video included multi-material, multi-texture, multi-color, especially in the earthtones. He stated that challenge is how to quantify those details in the ordinance, and to exclude those they don't want to see. Mr. Gleekel stated that their intent is to get to the point where the Commission is comfortable with the ordinance amendment. He noted that he would anticipate that the Commission would like to hear from other developers, as well. Ms. McPherson stated that comments have been provided by United Properties. . Ms. Mehelich stated that United Properties felt that not being able to utilize concrete tip-up panels in construction would restrict them from doing business in Elk River. The critical issue seems to be timing; buildings using concrete tip-up panels can be put up quickly. Mr. Martens stated he felt that that the tip-up panel construction provides a better quality building over the long term.