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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004/02/17 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Study Session CITY OF ST. LOUIS OFFICIAL MINUTES PARK CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION February 17, 2004 The meeting convened at 8:10 p.m. Present at the meeting were Councilmembers Phil Finkelstein, Paul Omodt, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa, Sally Velick and Mayor Jeff Jacobs. Staff present: City Manager(Mr. Harmening), Planning Coordinator(Ms. Erickson), and Recording Secretary(Ms. Olson). 1. Usable Open Space Mr. Harmening reported that there are two areas of concern that deal with single family usable space and higher quality multi-family open space. He stated that it was a timely discussion as they look at accommodating expansion on single family lots as part of the housing summit process. Ms. Erickson gave a presentation and presented three goals staff has been trying to accomplish. She stated that staff would like to redefine open space and make it easier to interpret and bring quality housing to the city. She went on to explain the two terms that would replace the term open space. The first is Designed Outdoor Recreational Area(DORA) that applies to multi- family housing and is suited to the needs of the residents and/or employees. The second is Open Lot Area that applies to the back yard of single family lots. She mentioned that the term rear yard that had been previously used has been changed to the definition of back yard. Ms. Erickson then presented a table that explained the changes in the square footage of open lot space. Councilmember Sanger had concerns regarding ponds designated only for stormwater retention. Councilmember Velick suggested adding language that outdoor recreational space be suited only for the residents and/or employees. Ms. Erickson stated that they were heading towards a more inclusive and community oriented intent. Councilmember Finkelstein and Mayor Jacobs felt that they needed to encourage community interaction. Councilmember Finkelstein had concerns with the definition of steep slopes and how to interpret what would be classified as steep. Councilmember Santa stated that the dictionary definition states that steep is 'not easily climbable'. Councilmember Sanger felt that they had to trust in staff to interpret the definition of the code. Councilmember Finkelstein agreed. Ms. Erickson suggested inserting a ratio to define steep and felt they could define a number. Mayor Jacobs didn't feel that it was necessary to define a number but wanted to raise the issue that it is up to staff to define what is classified as steep. Councilmember Sanger would like to add a conceptual statement on what DORA (Designed Outdoor Recreational Area) is intended for. Mr. Harmening stated that there is similar subjective text in the zoning code. Councilmember Velick inquired if these changes make the process easier,more consistent, or more difficult. She felt that it would be more difficult for developers to understand the ordinance. Mr. Harmening felt that it may be more difficult to meet the new standards but they were raising the bar on the quality level of land usage. Mayor Jacobs felt that the changes forced higher quality developments. Council discussed several other developments throughout the city, including the Quadion site, and the result of the open space requirements. Councilmember Sanger had concerns about bigger lots being subdivided. Mayor Jacobs felt these changes create a better opportunity for move-up housing. Councilmember Sanger expressed her concerns about the need of the property owner versus the collective neighborhood. Councilmember Sanger felt that the 600 square foot requirement should be maintained and then revisit the issue after a period of time. Mr. Harmening stated that the principle building can only occupy of 30% of the lot area and there are setback requirements. Councilmember Vehck stated that she had received calls from concerned constituents regarding this issue. Both Councilmembers Velick and Finkelstein agreed with Councilmember Sanger's earlier suggestion. Council discussed maintaining consistency in the character of the neighborhoods. Mayor Jacobs felt that the proposed changes allowed for move up housing. Mayor Jacobs inquired if the council agreed to move in incremental steps by maintaining the 600 square foot requirement in RI districts but move forward with the back yard definition. Council discussed and agreed to move forward in that manner. 2. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 9:03 p.m. ity Clerk M or