09-28-2004 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . Planning Commission Minutes September 28, 2004 Page 9 Chair Ropp stated that he supported the plans to expand the parking behind Kemper Drug. He asked if the Commission needs to address the issue of the right turn lanes. Ms. McPherson stated that the City Council would appreciate their input. Chair Ropp opened the public hearing. Clifford Lundberg, representing the River's Edge Downtown Committee, and the Heritage Preservation Commission - Stated that the downtown merchants are concerned about the parking. He stated that there may not be a net loss of parking spaces, but that there will be a net loss of convenience to the merchants, especially east of Jackson. He stated that the businesses that the new development will bring will create a need for more parking. Mr. Lundberg stated that the subject property was a public park with a bandshell at one time, and is used for celebrations such as the downtown art fair. Mr. Lundberg stated that he felt there is a significant issue with vacating a public space for private use. He felt that is was premature to consider a plat at this time, since there is a question of ownership of the property. He stated that when public property is vacated, it usually is distributed to the adjoining property owners. Keith Holme, owner of Kemper Drug - Stated that the issue of parking needs to be resolved. He stated that the number of apartment units and commercial tenants would need more than one space per tenant. He stated that it would not be practical for customers to park in the lot behind Kempers or Old Main and walk through these businesses, in order to access the new building. He stated that currendy there is no space to park downtown during the lunch hours. Vern Hanson, representing MetroPlains - Stated he was present to answer any questions the Commission may have. There being no further public comment, Chair Ropp closed the public hearing. Commissioner Stevens asked if the parking lot north of Highway 10 along the railroad tracks was open to the public. Ms. McPherson stated yes. She explained that these parking spaces are available for employees to park, but that when staff did a study of the parking, they were told that employees are concerned about the safety of crossing Highway 10. She explained that pedestrian countdown timers will be implemented to provide some comfort level in crossing the highway, but that the discomfort level only increases in the winter when pedestrians would then have to contend with snow and ice. Commissioner Lemke asked for clarification on the existing property line. Ms. McPherson explained that the existing property lines are not well-defined. She stated that there is an issue of clear tide that the City Attorney could explain, if the Commission desired. Commissioner Lemke asked if implementing 3-hour parking would help. Ms. McPherson explained that Economic Development Director Catherine Mehelich will be organizing a citizen task force to work on the downtown parking issues, including enforcement. Commissioner Lemke stated that he felt it is the intent of the City for traffic to access the downtown, and it was not a place to zoom through. Chair Ropp stated that he questioned whether or not is was necessary for the Commission to have the information regarding tide to the property, since they do not require it for other plats. He stated that the ownership and traffic issues were not part of the plat itself.