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Planning Commission Minutes August 26, 2025 Page 2 of 6 property from increased hard surfaces, the effects on the creek running through the property, the density of surrounding apartments within a one -block radius, people parking on their driveway, the impact on native species, the effects of the Northstar train decommissioning, and lack of privacy from a four-story building located so close to their house. Mr. Lerfald commented on privacy issues with nearby apartment residents trespassing on their property, burning, and dumping trash. Commissioner Rydberg asked if the property owner had spoken with Mr. Lerfald or Ms. Duvall. They responded that he had only approached them to discuss a natural gas connection. Currently, their home has an easement agreement for driveway access through the property. Ms. Duvall asked that a traffic impact study be a condition of the approval as well as stormwater controls and capping the building height at two to three stories rather than four. Arthur Meisenbach, 1739 Twin Lakes Rd, expressed concern about the watershed district and destroying wetlands. He stated the easement does not align with the driveway. He has concerns about security from surrounding apartment residents who trespass on his property and cut down his trees. He added that he currently takes care of snow removal for the road to his home at his own expense. Mr. Carlton stated a condition could be included to address concerns with the driveway alignment and the two driveways of existing property owners. Susan Meisenbach, 1739 Twin Lakes Rd, stated her biggest concern is regarding traffic safety. Ms. Duvall added that she was concerned about the value of her property decreasing. Caroline Hattell, 19601 Tyler St, commented that the curve at Twin Lakes Rd is terrible. She has recently moved to the state and has concerns about the number of apartments being built in Elk River. Attorney Alan Kantrud, representing the applicant, Pat Briggs, stated he was taking comments into consideration and could answer questions. Chris Dahn, Bogart, Pederson, and Associates, addressed some of the comments received. He stated that curving the road (driveway) through the apartment complex could reduce the speed of traffic. The creek that was mentioned is actually a drainage ditch owned and maintained by Sherburne County. Water entering this ditch will be treated in accordance with State stormwater requirements. Mr. Dahn asked if anything would stop the current property owner from cutting down all of the trees today? Mr. Carlton responded that the City does not have a tree preservation ordinance. Commissioner Rydberg added that a landscape plan would need to be submitted. Commissioner Rydberg agreed that adjacent property owners could be negatively affected by the height of the proposed development and the ingress/egress across the property. Mr. Dahn agreed that the developer could discuss those concerns and come back with suggestions. Acting Chair Booth asked if plans had been prepared to ensure property owners can access their property during construction. Mr. Dahn responded that access would be maintained.