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Planning Commission Minutes May 13, 2008 THE MOTION CARRIED 5-0. 5.5. Request by Kinghorn Construction To Allow Church in R1B Zonin District ,Alliance Community Church) -Public Hearing Case No CU 08-09 Mr. Barnhart reviewed the 2006 conditional use permit approval for the proposed Alliance Church. He stated that the church is proposing changes to the elevations which require review by the Planning Commission and City Council. Mr. Barnhart reviewed the changes and discussed layout of the site, parking, access, and watermain looping. Commissioner Lemke asked if the lighting would be a concern for the neighbors. Chair Westgaard stated that lighting should be full cut-off. Chair Westgaard asked if there were architectural standards for this district. He felt there should be some architectural features to break up in the 160 feet of uninterrupted length of the east elevation. Mr. Barnhart stated that the Planning Commission could make suggestions but could not require such features to be included. Commissioner Scott stated he could see no reason why the Planning Commission could not require them as conditions of approval. Mr. Barnhart stated that they need to establish a basis for such requirements, such as reducing impacts on neighborhood aesthetics. Commissioner Scott stated he felt the requirements need to be consistent with other buildings in the area. Chair Westgaard opened the public hearing. Jim Strecker, representing Kinghorn Construction -stated that Kinghorn and the church have no problem with the utilities requirements. He stated that they feel the berming and landscaping will soften the impacts of the building to the back of the homes. Mr. Stukert explained financial concerns which prompted the change in the church's plans which included removing the gymnasium and basement from the plans. He noted that cleanup of the site was a tremendous expense. There being no additional public comments, Chair Westgaard closed the public hearing. Chair Westgaard stated that he could appreciate the church's financial constraints. He noted that that there was enforceable means to require them to include breaks in the elevations, but suggested that they consider their suggestions to help the building blend in with the residential neighborhood. He stated that since there were no residents present for the public hearing, there must not be a concern. Mr. Stukert noted that they will be including more trees than is required to enhance the aesthetics. Mr. Barnhart added that the building will be approximately 70 feet from the adjacent properties. Commissioner Austad asked what items the letter of credit covered. Mr. Barnhart explained that the letter of credit is required to ensure that landscaping improvements are completed. Commissioner Scott stated that he would like to see design requirements included in the conditions, but that did not see a point if they are not enforceable. Mr. Barnhart stated that the Planning Commission has the authority to implement conditions if they have basis for requiring them, and they would be enforceable. Commissioner Scott asked how they could require design standards if there are none for the district. Mr. Barnhart stated that since the surrounding neighborhood consists of small residential lots, conditions could be included, and that it was residents are given the opportunity to comment through the public hearing process. Commissioner Scott stated he was concerned there are no design standards. 1'agc 5