04-22-2003 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . Planning Commission Minutes April 22, 2003 Page 9 Commissioner Offerman asked what type of engine was used. Mr. Bruan stated that 2-cycle engines are used in the go-karts. Commissioner Offerman asked if the applicant would be agreeable to lighting the parking lot to EIS Standards. Mr. Bruan stated that the required lighting would be provided. Commissioner Offerman stated that he felt "pole" lighting was appropriate in order to contain the lighting within the lot. Commissioner Lemke asked if any changes were proposed for the building exterior or if they planned to stripe the parking lot. Mr. Bruan stated that the building would be painted, but no other alterations are planned. He stated that they would look into striping the parking lot. Commissioner Lemke asked what type of signage is proposed. Mr. Bruan stated that they would use the existing free-standing sign standard, as well as signage on the canopy. Commissioner Offerman asked if there were double entry doors, in order to maximize soundproofing. Mr. Bruan stated that he felt there was adequate space to install additional doors. Greg Bossany, 304 Baldwin Avenue, stated that he was opposed to the request, as he did not feel this type of operation was appropriate with the surrounding residential uses. Robert Hall, owner of Pine Ridge Apartments, stated that a petition was submitted to the City Council in February 2003 with over 100 names objecting to the request. He stated that they are not opposed to the business, but that it should be in a more appropriate location. Mr. Hall cited similar businesses, noting that none were located near residential neighborhoods. He stated that he felt with proper marketing, an appropriate tenant could be found for the building. Dennis Dahlen, attorney representing the Halls, asked what the status was of the moratorium. Ms. McPherson stated that study of the area resulted in approval of the rezoning, and that the moratorium has expired. She noted that rezoning of the property allows the owners the right to reasonable use of their property. Mr. Dahlen stated that he felt the proposed use does not meet all of the findings necessary for granting a condition use. He cited Condition No. 1 relating to the fact that the conditional use shall not endanger the surrounding properties, and No.5 regarding detrimental effects of traffic and noise. There being no further public comment, Chair Pederson closed the public hearing. Commissioner Anderson stated that the Planning Commission voted in favor of the first request for rezoning to Highway Commercial and that he did not feel there was any reason to deny the request. He stated that he felt a recreational opportunity was a fitting use for the property. He noted that he felt the site was becoming unsightly and was in support of having a tenant for the building. Chair Pederson concurred with Commissioner Anderson's comments. He did not feel there would be an excessive amount of traffic and that the applicant has committed to making the necessary improvements they have recommended. He felt the potential for the problems is more likely with s vacant site than with a tenant. Commissioner Ropp concurred. He also felt that an empty building introduces the element for vandalism and loitering.