11-09-2004 PC MIN - SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . Planning Commission Minutes November 9, 2004 Page 5 Tom Hooker, 19138 Lincoln Street - Stated that Sunset Ridge is a low density neighborhood where people can walk and talk with their neighbors, creating a sense of community. He felt the high density of the proposed development would look out of place. He questioned the need for this development, since there are already five PUD's west of Highway 169 and seven east of Highway 169, with two of the largest PUD's on the east side. He stated that there is a 40 mph sign near Trott Brook Farms, but that no speed is posted after that. He felt that there needs to be a good reason for connecting the Sunset Ridge neighborhood with this one, and he has not heard one yet. Randy Barney, 19008 Lincoln Street - Stated that when the right-of-way was platted in the Sunset Ridge development, it was assumed that the neighboring development would also be 2 ~ - 5-acre lots. He suggested that a bike path or breakaway barrier be constructed instead, in order to provide emergency vehicle access. Linda Schmeling, 18753 Cleveland Street - Stated that this development will take up the sewer capacity, preventing others from developing their property. She stated that land for a school was offered to be donated on the east side of County Road 40, which would have allowed them to develop their land. She asked who would pay for the upgrade of County Road 40. She stated that she was told by the County that there was no money in the budget for it. She stated that the City should not give up everything to receive a few perks, such as the school, fire station and well house. She asked why no one on the east side of Highway 169 represented them during the Comprehensive Plan review. She stated that she tried to sell her 10-acre parcel but was not able to sell it, due to the fact that the proposed development must be disclosed. She stated that it would cost $9,000 to fix her septic system. Ms. Schmeling stated that 4 of the homes on County Road 40 did not pass the septic inspection. She asked why there was not more communication with the residents. Jeff Werner, 19575 Cleveland Street - Stated that he was all for progress and development, if all of the property owners who wanted to develop could. He felt the whole area should be re-designed to include those who wanted to be included. Mike Thiry, 19031 Lincoln Street - Felt that there were a number of empty lots in Elk River that haven't been built on and questioned the need for this development. He also felt the Lincoln/County Road 13 situation was unsafe, and the problem would be compounded by this development. Howard Johnson, 19184 Lincoln Street - Stated that this is not a unique situation in Elk River and that by reading the newspaper, it is evident that people want to see more controlled development everywhere. He felt that an emergency access connecting the Sunset Ridge development would create a safer situation, but that a full-blown street connection was not necessary. He stated that in the winter, there is often ice buildup on the County Road, and it is often foggy, which creates dangerous driving. He stated that the sewer capacity is getting close to its maximum. Mr. Johnson noted that the residents voted down the school referendum, and that this is an indication of the uncertainty and unrest in the community. He felt that Elk River's property owners are worried about what is happening in Elk River. He thanked the Commission for listening to their concerns. Pat Crepeau, 19160 Lincoln Street - Questioned the need to restore the wetlands. She stated that she did not care to see Sunset Ridge connected to this development and felt a project of this size was inconsistent with the surrounding properties.