Laserfiche WebLink
The property is currently zoned C-3 Highway Commercial, and the Comprehensive Plan guides the site for <br />Highway Business uses. However, the Planning Commission has been reviewing several updates to the land use <br />amendments over the past six months and their recommendations included a change for this lot. Based on <br />previous concept reviews and an understanding that access to this site for commercial uses will likely be limited by <br />MnDOT, the site is proposed to be guided for Mixed -Residential, which will allow single-family development <br />consistent with the proposed project. <br />Additionally, the Planning Commission is reviewing a proposed rezoning to R-lc (Single -Family Residential). The <br />zoning will allow development as a residential project but will require a variance to allow three lots to be platted <br />below the current design standard of 80-feet wide. A variance will also be needed to address the proposed setbacks <br />of 25-feet for the front yard, and 7.5-feet for the side yards. <br />The city has frequently reviewed these types of projects as a Planned Unit Development (PUD) to address all <br />deficiencies with a single approval. However, the proposed standards are consistent with what has been <br />conceptually discussed as a new zoning district. This district, previously referred to as R-3 (Compact Residential), <br />is targeted for undeveloped lots with a Comprehensive Plan guidance of Mixed Residential and the proposed <br />design standards match what the applicant is proposing with this project. With that background, staff recommends <br />a variance to address short-term concerns and avoid the long-term zoning and administration challenges <br />associated with a PUD. <br />Park and Recreation Commission <br />The Park and Recreation Commission recommends the addition of a trail easement in the southwest corner of lot <br />5 to formalize access to the city -owned parcel to the west, commonly referred to as boy scout island. This location <br />aligns with the most accessible upland area of the city parcel. Parking can be accommodated on the street. The <br />commission also recommended cash dedication for four buildable residential lots and the low -density rate. <br />Planning Commission and Public Hearing <br />No one spoke during the public hearing and no comments, for or against, have been received. The commission <br />asked staff to gain some clarification regarding the preferred location of the trail easement as there were questions <br />regarding the best access point to the city owned land. <br />The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the zone change and preliminary plat, with the <br />conditions noted in the memo. <br />Financial Impact <br />None <br />Mission/Policy/Goal <br />Supports the growth and development of the residential community. <br />Attachments <br />Planning Commission Packet dated June 27, 2023 <br />Ordinance Amendment <br />