09-15-2009 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Minutes Page 6 August 11, 2009 --------------------------- • Tot lot -The residents were concerned that the children from the apartments would use their park, as they grew too old for the apartment-provided tot lot. • Storage of dirt -Residents were concerned with the previous developer's plan to store dirt and sand during the construction of the building without consent of the property owner. • Income requirements - Mr. Prather stated are concerned that the apartments may have more adults per apartment than originally anticipated Greg Arndt, 10585 172~d Lane -expressed his concern with increased traffic. He stated the area is already congested. John Duffy, applicant - Responded with the following comments: • Income requirements -The previously discussed $1,000/month rents were condition of a proposal for tax increment financing, which was not approved The previous developer could not find a market for $1,300 - $1,400/month renters. Mr. Duffystated that 80 percent of the people in Elk River could not afford that type of rent and those that could, would generally buy their own home. • Parking -The parking is actually being increased from 2.25 spaces per unit to 2.34, with proof of parking. He stated most renters would have only 1 car, and families may have two. • Screening of the parking lot - Mr. Duffy stated he is proposing to make the "proof of parking" area green space, so it could be landscaped to reduce impacts on the adjacent homes. • Underground parking -this traffic will exit to the south, reducing impacts on residents compared to the previous plan. • Tot lot - He stated that the majority of residents with young children usually stay only two years and felt the tot lot was adequate. He has found that bythe time the children are school age, they will have moved on into a home. He noted that the Park Commission and City Council required a cash donation as part of the plat, and that the development plan does not show a park in the property. • Pets -There will beano pets policy. • Intersection of 171St and Twin Lakes Road - He stated he would like to see a plan to improve the intersection. He has concerns with the intersection when the commuter rail begins operation. • Sidewalk/trail along Twin Lakes Road -These improvements will be installed at his expense. • Drainage/easement issue - Mr. Duffy explained how the drainage and ponding would function, stating that there is no need for an easement. He noted that this plan was approved on August 10th.