09-23-1986 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 2 Planning Commission Minutes .ptember 23, 1986 -------------------------- . . 5. Conditional Use Permit to Amend the Elk River Plaza PUD Agreement by Barthel Construction/P.H. Mr. Ken Barthel explained his request for an amendment to the Planned Unit Development Agreement to allow 6,000 sq. ft of office/retail space on Lot 3, Block 1 in place of the 60 units of multi-family housing approved previously. Mr. Barthel stated that he felt there was a greater need for the office/retail space than for the multi-family housing. Chairman Wilson reviewed the history of the PUD agreement, stating that Lot 3, Block 1 was originally designated for housing to create a blend between adjacent office/retail use and residential use. Chairman Wilson opened the public hearing. Mrs. Eleanor Holme of 502 5 1/2 Street, questioned whether or not it was a good idea to mix residential with office on the same parcel. Mr. Barthel stated that he originally requested the amendment to place one office building on the parcel along with some multi-family but since making the request, he also felt it would make more sense to change the entire parcel to office/retail. Commissioner Fuchs stated that he would like to see a one-story office building. Mr. Joe Crawford. homeowner across Gates Avenue from the proposed site, stated that he wants to see a smooth transition between the residential and commercial districts. Discussion was carried on regarding an office/retail structure versus a three story multi-family structure as a buffer between the commercial and residential areas. Building and Zoning Administrator Stephen Rohlf stated that the question the Planning Commission must address is whether or not the concerns are still valid which were addressed at the time the original PUD Agreement was entered into; that is, will the additional office/retail space have a negative impact on the downtown business district. Chairman Wilson expressed his concern that when additional office and retail space became available in the PUD's on Highway #169, businesses and offices that were downtown moved out. He stated that he was not sure there was a need for more office/retail space. as there currently is office space available for lease. Mr. Barthel stated that at the proposed site, outside the City. he wished to locate a business office for himself and also has a potential tenant interested from Chairman Wilson stated that he does not want the City to set a precedent of amending PUD Agreements.