HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda & Draft Minutes
4646 Dakota Street S.E.
Prior Lake, MN 55372-1714
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
MONDAY, APRIL 14,2008
City Council Chambers
6:00 p.m.
1. Call Meeting to Order:
2. Roll Call:
3. Approval of Minutes:
4. Consent Agenda:
5. Public Hearings:
A. Consider amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map. These
amendments relate to the following:
. Section 1101: General Provisions of the Zoning Code.
. Section 1102: Use District Regulations of the Zoning Code.
. Modifications to the Zoning Map.
6. Old Business:
7. New Business:
A. 2008-2013 Capital Improvement Program Review
8. Announcements and Correspondence:
9. Adjournment:
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PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
MONDAY, MARCH 24, 2008
1. Call to Order:
Chairman Lemke called the March 24, 2008, Planning Commission meeting to order at
6:00 p.m. Those present were Commissioners Billington, Fleming, Lemke, Perez and
Ringstad, Community DevelopmentlNatural Resource Director Danette Walthers-Moore,
Planner Jeff Matzke, Assistant City Engineer Larry Poppler and Recording Secretary
Connie Carlson.
2. Roll Call:
Billington
Fleming
Lemke
Perez
Ringstad
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
3. Approval of Minutes:
The Minutes from the February 25, 2008, Planning Commission meeting were approved
as presented.
4.
Consent:
None
5. Public Hearings:
Commissioner Lemke read the Public Hearing Statement and opened the meeting.
A. EP08-110 PRNSC, LLC and Wensco, Inc. have submitted an application for
approval of a Senior Care Overlay District to be known as Fountain Hills Assisted
Living on the property located at 4285 Fountain Hills Drive.
Community Development & Natural Resources Director Danette Walthers-Moore
presented the Planning Report dated March 24, 2008, on file in the office ofthe City
Community Development & Natural Resources Department.
Professional Resource Network Senior Care and Wensco have applied to develop a
Senior Care Overlay District on a site located along Fountain Hills Drive south of County
Highway 42 and west of Pike Lake Trail.
The Senior Care (SC) Overlay District was established for the purpose of allowing senior
care facilities in close proximity to support services and complimentary land uses. The
4.6 acre site is zoned C-4 (General Business). The senior care facility is subject to all
applicable requirements of the underlying C-4 use district.
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Professional Resource Network Senior Care provides extensive nursing and home aid
services to residents of assisted living facilities. The goal ofPRNSC is to provide a
family support environment that encourages residents to participate in daily group
activities, interact with staff, and socializes with staff. The facilities will be staffed 24
hours a day by personal care attendants as well as supervised by a registered nurse (RN)
or licensed practical nurse (LPN).
The applicant originally proposed to subdivide the property into three separate lots for the
three proposed buildings. Due to project timing, however, the developer has modified the
original plan, choosing to develop a 10,323 square foot on the westernmost lot and
subdivide the property at a later time as part of a three phase development process. The
revised plans indicate the possible lot divisions for future phases.
The two 10,323 square foot buildings are organized into two separate areas for residents
at two different points in the aging process. Each building contains a total of twelve
single occupancy bedrooms and four double-occupancy bedrooms along with common
areas for dining, recreation, and other group activities. A future 5,446 square foot
building will contain approximately 10 units. A fenced and landscaped area is proposed
at the rear ofthe buildings. Each building also contains a shared garage to allow
residents to board and exit vehicles in an indoor setting. The exterior of the buildings
consist ofhardiplank siding and red brick.
City Engineer Larry Poppler explained the lot and service lines were set up with the
Fountain Hills development. The only work in the right-of-way will be the entrance
connection. RLK did a great job in addressing the commercial section of our manual.
The only key comment is the storm water rules - when the developer comes in to replat,
it will trigger staff to again review the storm water component and the developer will
have to meet any new and updated requirements.
Overall, staff believes the Senior Care Overlay District is consistent with the intent of the
Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance. Based upon the Findings set forth in the
planning report, staff recommended approval ofthe Senior Care Overlay District. In
order to meet the above-listed criteria, staff recommended the following conditions:
1. The applicant shall address all staff comments as outlined in the March 10, 2008
engineering memorandum.
2. The applicant shall address all staff comments as outlined in the March 11, 2008
planning memorandum.
3. All conditions listed in Section 1106A of the Zoning Ordinance shall be met.
Questions from the Commissioners:
Fleming said he did not see the staff comments just read in his report packet. Poppler
read the engineering March 10th memo's listed concerns. Poppler pointed out the
concerns were minor and because the applicant is not platting at this time, some ofthe
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comments do not apply to this application. Staff wanted to see a little more detail on the
road connection and drainage plan with additional spot elevations. Poppler said most of
the comments were taken care of.
Fleming pointed out a letter dated March 21, 2008, from Leann Shore, a neighbor
concerned with the facility who raises a couple of questions. Will the developer address
the points and questions Ms. Shore has raised? Fleming stated "It would be important for
me and I believe, my fellow Commissioners to also know there would be a series of
community meetings to address the points Ms. Shore raises in her letter."
Comments from the Public:
Applicant Terry Wensmann, of Wens co and Wensmann Homes, owns the land and will
build the facility however, the facility will be run by Professional Resource Network
Senior Care. Wensmann addressed Shore's concerns pointing out the yard would be
fenced in and there would be a 24/7 security system; re: the market study for assisted
living - the co-applicants have been running similar businesses for over 11 years and felt
there was a need for a smaller run facility. The third concern was maintenance of the
building and area. Wensmann pointed out a contractor will be hired to maintain the
grounds and facility similar to any other townhouse association. Another concern for
parking needs - Wensmann stated there will be more than required. Noise should not be
an issue. Wensmann noted the co-applicant and ultimate owner of the building had a
prior commitment out of town. He did speak to one of her staff members regarding
Shore's questions and his responses were the answers they gave him.
Fleming wanted to point out that PRNSC should host at least two or more community
members to provide some education around these discussions. That would include a
proper invitation.
Wensmann stated they had no problem answering any questions or concerns by
neighbors.
Moore read staff comments from a memo dated March 11,2008. The comments were
reflected in the staff report.
Billington wanted it noted that Wensmann's interest in this project is a builder, not
operator. The people managing and operating the facility were not available to answer
questions. It's difficult for the Wensmanns to answer questions on how it's going to be
operated.
Billington asked for Shore's address - Moore responded she was within 350 feet of the
notification. Again, Billington wanted to emphasize the Wensmanns were not here to
answer operation questions and those questions would be answered in subsequent
meetings.
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Lemke questioned the 11 parking stalls - does that include staff and visitors? Moore
responded the parking was sufficient and explained the parking requirements.
Lemke asked if there were any other senior care overlay districts within the City. Moore
responded "Lake front Plaza"; however, McKenna Crossing has assisted living. Lemke
asked if we have had any complaints i.e. residents escaping from facilities or other
problems. Moore said she was not aware of any and the City has a number of group
home facilities and there have been no issues.
Terry Wensmann noted the building is similar to any other one-level townhome and will
fit nicely into the area. There will be a lot of green space; the site is not overcrowded at
all. It is a very good use for the site in lieu of having a commercial building. The current
residents would probably prefer this facility over a commercial building.
Pam Steinbach, 14229 Fountain Hills Court, vice president ofthe Fountain Hills
Townhome Association stated they had a number of concerns and should have been
forwarded to the staffby the property manager. "It doesn't appear they were received by
the City." Steinbach's other concern is that she did not personally receive a notice. She
felt all the townhome residents should have been notified regardless if they were not in
the notification area.
Billington asked if staff received any other communications. Moore stated Jeff Matzke
(planner) was working on the project however, she was working with him and was not
aware of any comments and would have forwarded it on to the Commissioners.
Lawrence Wright, 14260 Fountain Hills Court NE, President ofthe townhome
association, stated there were a number of children in the area and was concerned with
the increase of traffic. Wright noted "A lot of kids play in the street area and would like
to see the developer put in a park and keep the kids off the street. Other townhome
members were concerned for traffic in general and asked if there were statistics so they
know what to expect."
Billington response to Wright was to direct questions of that nature to staff or to the
ultimate owner/manager of the operation. There is going to be further meetings involving
neighbors. Make sure the concerns were passed on to the staff so the Commissioners can
review them.
The public hearing was closed at 6:30 p.m.
Comments from the Commissioners:
Ringstad:
. Until I heard from our last two speakers, I was going to respectfully disagree with
Commissioner Fleming for the need of additional meetings. With all of the
notices sent out and the notification in the paper, I just didn't see a need for that. I
am not 100% convinced but if everyone else concurs, I will agree with that.
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. As far as traffic goes - I can't think of anything that would have a lower traffic
impact. An assisted care senior facility that is one level- I can't imagine it would
be attracting the kind of traffic other things that could potentially go in the area.
From that standpoint there will be more traffic than currently exists but quite
honestly this situation is as good as you could hope for.
. The look of a one-level townhome is good for the neighborhood and fits in
extremely well.
. Approve with or without further Commissioner recommendations on additional
meetings.
Billington:
. Looks like an excellent project. It fits within the Comprehensive Plan. It
certainly would add to the quality of life in Prior Lake.
. As much as I dislike additional meetings, the co-applicants are not here to address
the questions of operation, people are entitled to ask questions ofthe managing
entity not the builder, since their interests are limited to the construction of the
building. Since they are not here we owe the neighbors that.
. In general I like the project, it's excellent, but again we have to hear from the
management of the facility.
Fleming:
. Concur and agree the project is a good one. I am an ardent supporter oflife-cycle
housing. I think there can be great community partnerships with this
development.
. Given my great respect for the Wensmanns, they are not experts in the senior care
operations; I am going to insist the owner/operators responsively, in a timely
manner, answer the questions raised by Leann Shore.
. Support the project.
Perez:
. I do feel this is a good project and a good fit. It meets the criteria for the overlay
district.
. In my mind the questions Ms. Shore addressed were answered.
. Comfortable the building and materials are of high quality.
. This is a very good look for the area.
. Agree with Commissioner Ringstad on the low traffic impact.
. As far as a neighborhood meeting - I think one would be in order to address the
concerns.
. Maybe Danette can speak to the notices - I know it was published correctly but
there seems to be some issues with notification. It's better to notify more than
less.
. Support the project.
. Moore pointed out 62 individuals were notified according to the 350 foot radius.
"If anyone who was not notified with respect to the project to contact staff and we
will be sure to include them."
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Lemke:
. Agree with the low traffic, the people in the facility don't drive. It's a C4 zoning
area.
. We have some experience in the City with assisted care and it doesn't seem to
have a lot of problems. I think lifecyc1e housing is important for a diverse
community.
. Will support the project.
. Wondering if Mr. Wensmann could put together a meeting with the facility
managers and the neighbors.
. Would like to get this project moving - it is good for the community. Moore
explained the process. Lemke said he would like to hear from the rest of the
Commissioners.
. I think if staff doesn't take it to the City Council until the meeting is held, that
will take care of it.
Fleming said that would be fine, his strong desire is to have the owner/operators to
respond directly to Ms. Shore. I trust the Wensmann to facilitate a community dialog
with the townhome association. Moore said she can put something together with the
owner/operator in writing to Ms. Shores and copy the Commissioners. Fleming replied
that would be great.
MOTION BY BILLINGTON, SECOND BY FLEMING, RECOMMENDING
APPROVAL OF THE SENIOR CARE OVERLAY DISTRICT FOR THE FOUNTAIN
HILLS ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY SUBJECT TO STAFF'S LISTED
CONDITIONS AND THE OWNER/OPERATORS SHOULD ARRANGE A MEETING
WITH THE TOWNHOME ASSOCIATION AND ADDRESS THE CONCERNS OF
MS. SHORE. MAKE IT PUBLIC SO PEOPLE HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE
CARE OF THEIR CONCERNS.
VOTE TAKEN INDICATED AYES BY ALL. MOTION CARRIED.
Moore stated if the community meeting was expedited quickly this could go before the
City Council on April ih. She will get back to the Commissioners and let them know.
B. EP08-106 & 107 Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church is requesting an
amendment to the Final pun Plan allowing a YMCA facility with an option of a
future expansion. This property is located north of CSAH 42, east of McKenna
Road and south of North Berens Road.
Community Development & Natural Resources Director Danette Walthers-Moore
presented the Planning Report dated March 24, 2008, on file in the office of the City
Community Development & Natural Resources Department.
Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church has applied for approval of an amendment to the
Planned Unit Development (PUD) known as Shepherd's Path on the property located
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north ofCSAH 42, south of North Berens Road, in the vicinity of McKenna Road and
Shepherds Path.
As each phase ofthe Shepherd's Path campus applies for Final PUD approval, the
Planning Commission and City Council will have the opportunity to review the specific
elements (architectural materials, parking, traffic, signage, etc.) of that phase. However,
the application before the Planning Commission is specifically related to an amendment
request allowing a larger YMCA facility than previously approved. All other aspects of
the YMCA facility beyond that ofthe amendment request will be brought before the
Planning Commission for consideration at the time of Final PUD submittal.
The PUD allows for a 40,000 square foot YMCA structure one and a half stories in
height and with a ground floor area of26,667 square feet. On February 11, 2008,
Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church submitted an application requesting to amend the
PUD plan to allow the following:
. A two story in height YMCA structure (with a third story walk-out elevation on
the south side ofthe building).
. A ground floor area of 29,000 square feet.
. An overall structure square footage of 50,000 square feet.
· The possibility of allowing a future expansion of an additional 12,000 square feet
(6,000 square feet on two stories).
Poppler spoke on the traffic study performed by SRF who provided some effective data
on the needs for a traffic signal at the intersection of McKenna Road and County Road
42. Poppler said "A traffic signal has always been planned for the intersection; staff
monitors how that intersection functions with the County. Once it is warranted we would
look at installation. Staff would check with the County on a time line. Another aspect of
this project is the extension of North Berens Road to County Road 21, but that would be
developer driven."
Poppler also spoke on the trail system working with the applicant on rerouting the
original proposed location. There were a couple of topographic restraints.
Walthers-Moore wanted to add to the traffic concerns. Staff recently received a memo
from Craig Jenson with Scott County Highway indicating they were going to continue
monitoring the traffic with the City and decide when the traffic light would installed.
The Planning Commission must review the proposed amendment to the PUD plan and
determine whether the amendment is consistent with the purpose of a PUD. Staff
believes if the following conditions are met, the amendment would be consistent with the
intent of the PUD provision:
1. Any additional impervious square footage areas granted through this amendment
must be equally deducted from future development phases that take place within
the specific watershed area ofthe YMCA facility.
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2. The applicant shall provide 100 proof-of-parking spaces on the campus property
located west of McKenna Road to serve as an overflow parking area. The
applicant will be responsible for the installation of the bituminous parking area if
the parking counts warrant it. If warranted, any future development on the west
side of McKenna must incorporate parking to adequately meet the needs of the
YMCA facility at build-out.
3. The applicant shall provide a crossing guard at McKenna and North Berens Road
at peak traffic volume times when overflow parking on the west side of McKenna
is utilized (including Sunday mornings, before and after worship services, and
Wednesday evenings as needed).
4. Once the YMCA facility becomes operational, it shall refrain for 30 days from
opening during Sunday mornings while conflicting peak traffic times are in
progress (worship services).
5. The approved amendment shall not imply approval of any architectural elements,
materials, signage, the splash pad concept, or any PUD thematic elements shown
on the elevations or plans submitted as a part ofthe amendment application.
Questions from the Commissioners:
Ringstad questioned staff on amendment # 1- the additional 2,300 square footage. Is there
a predetermined amount of impervious surface for this PUD? Moore responded staffhas
the numbers.
Ringstad questioned the additional the parking spots across the road. Moore responded
there would be an additional 100 parking spaces south of Safe Haven. Moore also noted
the "Park and Ride" (110) spaces at the Church site - if need be those spots can be
relocated to another area.
Fleming - Back on 2005 there was at least a concept for a soccer dome and asked if staff
knew the status. Moore responded at this point the dome site is no longer considered. It
is her understanding a future medical office facility is being considered.
Comments from the Public:
Kermit Mahlum, representing Shepherd's Path, stated the YMCA is one of the facilities
they wanted on the campus from the beginning and are happy they are able to move
forward. The main reason the space has increased is the need for a daycare center. The
Church has a preschool program and the YMCA was planning a drop-off daycare for
parents when they work out. After discussions everyone decided they would like full
time daycare.
Fleming questioned the hours of operation. Mahlum responded it would be
approximately 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. They (the Church) have a number of young families that
bring kids to preschool, then drive to the other side of town for daycare. This would
really help the situation.
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Billington commented he is very pleased with the overall project development. He saw
the housing complex and found it extremely well planned with beautiful amenities.
Noticed Shepherd of the Lake Church is occupying the role of "Lessor" landowner and
the operations of the "Lesees" are managed totally by them. Mahlum agreed. Safe
Haven is on their own, they are a 50/50 partner with Presbyterian Homes with the
McKenna Crossing facility. Shepherd of the Lake felt they were helping the YMCA
further their project. Mahlum also pointed out the architects and engineers were present
for any questions.
There were no comments from the public and the hearing was closed at 7:04 p.m.
Comments from the Commissioners:
Fleming:
. Glad all parties involved in the project are present to answer questions.
. Regarding the signal at McKenna and County Road 42 - well aware the County
Commissioners are voting whether or not to approve a sales tax which would
approve or not approve transit. My concern is with the County project 2011 date
- What is going to happen when the City says we need a traffic light in '09 or
'10?
. Poppler responded this particular signal would be constructed using City funds.
Perez:
. I was concerned with the traffic signal but obviously this is something planned.
. A little apprehensive with the crossing guard as this is going to be a busy street.
. Support.
Billington:
. Like the project - it is a value to the City. We will be presented with more detail
and will scrutinize the project as we go forward.
. Given what has gone on so far, this will be a quality project. Happy to have it in
Prior Lake.
. Support.
Ringstad:
. This is something we have been looking at for about 3 years and it just continues
to evolve.
. Agree with Perez - the traffic situation and parking is not perfect but it's what we
are dealing with before us tonight.
. No one plans on holding this up because it is not perfect. With some planning
together it will work out.
. Support.
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Lemke:
. Agree with everything said. I did have some concerns with impervious surface
with increasing the size ofthe project. These things need to evolve and change
and no one can foresee the future perfectly.
. I would like to thank (Shepherd ofthe Lake, their architects and engineers) for all
coming out to answer questions.
MOTION BY FLEMING, SECOND BY RINGSTAD, RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF
THE SHEPHERD'S PATH PUD AMENDMENT SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS
LISTED IN STAFF'S REPORT.
Vote taken indicated ayes by all. MOTION CARRIED.
This item will go before the City Council on April ih.
6.
Old Business:
None
7.
New Business:
None
8. Announcements and Correspondence:
On the next meeting will be April 14, 2008 - staffwill start conducting the public
hearings for the Zoning Code updates. The Commissioners will also be reviewing the
Capital Improvement Plan for 2009 to 2013.
9. Adjournment:
The meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m.
Connie Carlson
Recording Secretary
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