06-12-2001 PC MIN - SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . Planning Commission Minutes June 12,2001 Page 2 both. She stated that in tabulating the prioritization lists, they hope to find some sort of consensus as to what direction to move in. Commissioner Schuster stated he did not see a solution to the traffic problems downtown. He stated that he finds it difficult, as a pedestrian, to cross the highway and railroad tracks to get downtown, and that it is also difficult to drive there and park. A business owner in the audience stated that the idea of a parking ramp in the downtown has been suggested many times in the past. Daryl Thompson stated he did not feel a parking ramp will help unless they create a draw for people to come downtown. A member present stated that there is a need for a "fine dining" restaurant and a coffee shop downtown. Commissioner Baker felt that parking was not the first issue of importance. Commissioner Mesich disagreed. A discussion followed regarding downtown redevelopment projects in Hopkins and White Bear Lake, and the impacts of tearing down a large portion of downtown to rebuild. The group also discussed what types of uses would be appropriate if a portion of downtown were rebuilt. It was the consensus to recommend that a Historic Context Study be completed as discussed at the previous meeting. Discussion was also given to having a farmer's market or flea market downtown, as well as having regular concerts. Commissioner Schuster did not support tearing down buildings and felt that the backs of the buildings need to be opened up to the river and the fronts re-faced. A member present felt that a coffee shop or some type of restaurant with live entertainment would draw people downtown. Paul Hatlestad, owner of the Haberdashery felt that specialty retail such as his is also a draw, where he sells items that cannot be found anywhere else. Ms. Mehelich stated that the results of the tabulation for prioritization of downtown projects would be sent to those who participated. She stated that from the discussion, many people place a high priority on some type of generator to bring people to the downtown, and utilization of the river as an asset to downtown is also very important. Ms. Lee Cairns stated that she helped renovate three buildings downtown and she felt that these buildings should be preserved as viable assets to the downtown (i.e. former Star News building, the Haberdashery). 3. Request by Gold Nugget Development for Preliminary Plat (Kliever Lake Fields). Public Hearing - Case No. P 01-08 Staff report presented by Scott Harlicker. This plat was reviewed by the Commission at their May 22,2001 meeting. He stated that the plat now consists of 98 lots, the park has been re-aligned, and all lots except one meet the dimensional requirements. This lot can be adjusted so that it is in compliance with the 12,000 square foot minimum. Mr. Harlicker