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Planning Commission August 24, 2021 Page 4 Ms. Stevenson commented about the lot sizes in Ridgewood and the covenants that are in place, indicating dividing lots is not allowed. There being no one else to speak, Chair Larson -Vito closed the public hearing. Mr. Carlton explained if city services are available to a property the owner would then be able to connect; however, in some instances, installation of utilities may not be feasible. He noted HOA rules and covenants are outside of the city ordinance and the enforcement of those regulations, splitting lots for example, is outside of the city's jurisdiction. The city will review and approve under the ordinance rather than HOA standards. Ms. Stevenson commented about the park land adjacent to Ridgewood and the negotiations done to save the Sherburne County forest. Mr. Carlton stated he will research and outline answers to those questions regarding the Top of the World park when this plan is presented to the City Council. He then discussed the three right-of-way trail stubs that offer access to the north of the Ridgewood development. He stated there may not be much available parking but if there is dedicated right-of-way under city control, individuals can legally park on the city street and enter the park through that area. Commissioner Rydberg stated there should be careful prioritization of what's important in this community. He expressed concern first with employees coming into the city to work and those leaving the city to work. He felt there is a burden on businesses for "third places." He felt the downtown was landlocked, highways needed updates, and should riverfront access be updated if there's no parking available. He was hoping the council will be careful when reviewing to determine when things are critical to the needs of Elk River. Chair Larson -Vito discussed the priority matrix on page 131 and asked if there was anything in the matrix to adjust. Commissioner Rydberg was concerned with the housing point of view by pushing for more infill but there's limited economic return in those who purchase these properties. He felt it was more expensive to the developer and the city shouldn't force a certain type of action but be more open and flexible. He asked if it was the place of the Planning Commission to write ordinances. Mr. Carlton stated they aren't writing ordinances tonight but instead this plan is a broad idea, staff would come up with an ordinance in the future, and that's the time when you could get into the details and formulate what Commission Johnson stated a plan such as this is important to guide the commission to assist them in moving forward. Commissioner Keisling noted the plan to him is a framework for future work. NATURE