07-24-2001 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Planning Commission Minutes July 24, 2001 Page 11 . Commissioner Mesich asked what happened to the 2-3-4 story stepped design the developer discussed at previous meetings. Mr. Sween stated that they are willing to look at that type of design, but that for every foot which is removed from the height of the building, the footprint will be increased by 20 feet. Mr. Sween felt that when the buildings are constructed, they will appear less dense than any apartment buildings. He stated that there will be the equivalent of 1 ~ football fields of open space between the buildings. He felt these buildings will be superior in comparison to any apartment buildings the Commission may have seen. Commissioner Baker asked if the existing trees would be preserved. Mr. Sween stated that the trees are a valuable resource and that they rarely get an opportunity to build on a site with large mature trees. He stated that they intend to make every effort to preserve the existing trees, as well as planting additional trees. The Commission discussed the roof line of the buildings with Mr. Sween. The Commissioners were in agreement that that one building be done with the 3-4 story step design as shown and one building with a 2-3-4 step design. Mr. Sween stated that apartment units will range in size for 950 square feet for a smaller unit to 1,400 for a 3-bedroom townhome-style unit. . The Commissioners discussed exterior materials and maintenance with Mr. Sween. Mr. Sween stated that they plan to use a cement lap siding product on the exterior. He explained that they are also concerned with maintenance of the buildings, since they are in the business of long-term ownership Mark Putman, Putman Planning & Design, reviewed the layout of the project, including the parks and open space. Commissioner Baker questioned whether or not the project provided enough commercial space to serve the needs of this many residents. Mr. Pratt stated that it is necessary to create enough critical mass of housing to support the retail, and that the space will be set aside for development, once the users (residents) are in place. Commissioner Baker asked if enough sidewalks are included to serve the residents. Ms. McPherson stated that there are so many sidewalks proposed, that staff has actually asked them to remove some of them. Commissioner Franz asked what type of lighting is proposed. Mr. Pratt stated that they will chose some type of soft lighting based on aesthetic appeal. Ms. McPherson noted that the developers will be working with Connexus and that the utilities generally allow the developers to chose their own style of lighting. COMMISSIONER MESICH MOVED TO TABLE THE REQUESTS BY ELK RIVER STATION LLP TO THE AUGUST 14,2001 PLANNING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING AND WORKSHOP. COMMISSIONER FRANZ SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. . 5.12. Request by City of Elk River for Ordinance Amendment. Section 900 to Revise Business Park Zoning District Building Designs and Materials Standards. Public Hearing - Case No. OA 01-08