10-26-1995 PC MIN - SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Minutes October 26, 1995 Page 8 . further north, because Elk River is going to be developed, whether they like it or not. It was the consensus of the Planning Commission to keep the public hearing open and continue the discussion on the remainder of the Draft Comprehensive Plan. Peter Beck responded to an earlier comment by stating that their are various options for clustered housing, and that clustering has not been determined to be "unconstitutional" . Chair Kuester stated that there are brochures and a video tape available regarding clustered housing, and anyone interested in this information should contact city staff. IV. COMMERCIAL . Commissioner Minton explained the important role of commercial development in maintaining a healthy tax base. The Steering Committee has recommended that the commercial zoning extend north on the east side of Highway 169 to 197th Avenue, and no further than the 194th Avenue alignment on the west side of Highway 169. Commercial areas are proposed in the vicinity of Joplin and west Highway 1 a and also on east Highway 1 a. It is recommended that the commercial standards be upgraded along the southeost portion of Highway 1 a, to provide a more appealing entrance to the City of Elk River. The Steering Committee adopted the complete report and recommendations of the Chamber of Commerce Downtown Task Force. An additional recommendation calls for an early central theme for the downtown, as well as allowing a mix of residential in the downtown commercial area. Commissioner Minton thanked Jackie Schuelein and Bill Rubin for their work on the task force report. Lynn Weaver, resident in Hillside Estates, questioned why more commercial area was being recommended when there are so many buildings empty in the downtown. Mike Fox, 11747 197th Avenue, stated that the 14 of the 15 member Steering Committee previously supported limiting commercial on the west and east sides of Highway 169 to the 194th Avenue alignment. He added that staff supported that recommendation as well. Later, the Steering Committee made a motion to extend the commercial to 197th on the east, by a vote of 4-2-1, with only 7 members of the Steering Committee present. Mr. Fox asked that the Planning Commission reject the Steering Committee's recommendation for the extension of commercial on the east side of Highway 169. Phil Johnson, 19440 Holt Street, expressed his agreement with Mr. Fox's comment. He questioned why the Steering Committee's recommendation was changed. . Steve Ach explained that staff is recommending a focus area study be undertaken for the area east of Highway 169 between 193rd and 197th, to determine the transportation needs, appropriate land uses and to consider the adjacent residential areas.