HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019/02/20 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - Planning Commission - Regular1
AGENDA
PLANNING COMMISSION
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
6:00 P.M.
FEBRUARY 20, 2019
1. Call to order – Roll Call
2. Approval of Minutes: Study Session – January 16, 2019 & February 6, 2019
3. Hearings
A. Zoning Ordinance – Small cell aesthetic requirements
Applicant: City of St. Louis Park
Case No.: 19-04-ZA
4. Other Business
5. Communications
6. Adjournment
STUDY SESSION
1. Historic Walker Lake
2. Home Occupations (no written report)
If you cannot attend the meeting, please call the Community Development office, 952.924.2575.
Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. To make arrangements, please
call the administration department at 952/924-2525 (TDD 952/924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of
meeting.
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
PLANNING COMMISSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
January 16, 2019 – 6:00 p.m.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Lynne Carper, Matt Eckholm, Jessica Kraft,
Lisa Peilen, Carl Robertson,
Joe Tatalovich, Alanna Franklin (youth member)
MEMBERS ABSENT: Claudia Johnston-Madison
STAFF PRESENT: Jennifer Monson, Sean Walther
1.Call to Order – Roll Call
2.Approval of Minutes of December 19, 2018
Commissioner Tatalovich made a motion to approve the December 19, 2018
minutes. Commissioner Peilen seconded the motion, and the motion passed on a
vote of 6-0.
3.Public Hearings
A.Zoning Ordinance – window transparency on ground floor street facing
facades
Applicant: City of St. Louis Park
Case No.: 18-70-ZA
Jennifer Monson, Planner, presented the staff report.
Commissioner Peilen asked about businesses on Minnetonka that cover their
windows with brown paper and asked if the proposed ordinance would require
the business to remove the paper.
Ms. Monson said that the proposed ordinance would require the removal of
paper coverings.
Commissioner Peilen asked about a separate part of the ordinance dealing with
directional signage on parking ramps. Discussion followed.
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Unofficial Minutes
Planning Commission
January 16, 2019
Page 2
Mr. Walther said that directional signage on parking ramps would be allowed
under the sign code, and is not prohibited by the architectural ordinance. He
suggested the planning commission review this item at a later time as it is not
part of the proposed ordinance.
Commissioner Carper agreed.
Commissioner Kraft asked about signage for unleased space.
Mr. Walther said the city limits the square footage for leasing signs under the
sign code.
Ms. Monson said she agreed with Mr. Walther and said the proposed ordinance
is for occupied spaces. Leasing signs would still have to meet the sign code.
Commissioner Carper asked a question relating to the window coverage. He
discussed Trader Joe’s and their inward facing store front. He stated that Trader
Joe’s uses signs on the back of their shelving against the windows. He said CVS is
another example. He asked how the ordinance would apply to Lunds & Byerlys.
Ms. Monson explained that Trader Joe’s signage is approved under a plan unit
development and has its own specific signage regulations and requirements. She
said she would have to double check to see what the code says. As for Lunds and
Byerly’s, staff would have to research what is considered the front façade of the
building. It’s a large lot surrounded by streets.
Mr. Carper asked about the TexaTonka Shopping Center.
Ms. Monson said the Texa-Tonka center has a lot of window signage. There are
no opaque or mirrored windows. There is a lot of window signage which is easier
and more affordable to take down versus replacing windows.
Commissioner Carper asked if the city is deciding what a window looks like in
terms of the display or what is placed within the three feet of depth.
Ms. Monson said that as long as it’s visible within the first three feet of the
space, we don’t care what is placed there.
Commissioner Carpers asked Ms. Monson if the ordinance prohibits anything
within the three feet from being displayed.
Ms. Monson clarified that displays are permitted, as long as you can see past the
merchandise for the first three feet into the commercial space.
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Unofficial Minutes
Planning Commission
January 16, 2019
Page 3
Commissioner Carper asked what kind of percentage of that view into the space
is being discussed.
Ms. Monson said ten percent of the window area is allowed to be blocked. The
remaining 90 percent would need to remain open for the first three feet.
Commissioner Peilen asked a few follow up questions regarding parking ramp
signage, ensuring the ordinance does not preclude directional parking signs.
Chair Robertson said he does sees all those as directional signage.
Commissioner Peilen asked how the ordinance addresses temporary signs.
Ms. Monson responded that temporary signs are allowed as long as they follow
the temporary sign code requirements.
Commissioner Carper asked if staff researched other city’s transparency
ordinances.
Ms. Monson explained that staff researched many other ordinances both local
and across the country including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Seattle, Boulder, Denver,
and Cincinnati, including examples from developments in St. Louis Park.
Commissioner Carper asked Ms. Monson if she consulted with any professional
such as architects who are designing the buildings, store planners who plan the
inside of them and even potential business who may want to move into the
community but could change their mind due to the nature of this ordinance.
Ms. Monson explained they have discussed the ordinance with the planning
commission which has a variety of people from different backgrounds including
several architects. She stated that staff reached out to St. Paul as they have
adopted similar standards for the Grand Ave corridor. St. Paul never responded,
but staff took into consideration the standards St. Paul and other cities adopted
when crafting the ordinance.
Commissioner Carper explained that with his extensive history in retail he’s a bit
uncomfortable with the ordinance. He asked Ms. Monson if other window
transparency ordinances were studied in areas of high pedestrian activity, and
stated downtown Hopkins and 50th and France as examples.
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Unofficial Minutes
Planning Commission
January 16, 2019
Page 4
Ms. Monson explained that staff researched many other ordinances both local
and across the country. She stated that each treat it a bit differently, and that
Minneapolis uses pedestrian overlay zones.
Chair Robertson asked if anyone had further questions for staff. Seeing none, he
opened the public hearing. No one was present to speak so he closed the public
hearing, and brought the discussion back to the commission.
Chair Robertson explained that planning commission has had several discussions
about transparency and that he is still uncomfortable with this ordinance though
he understands the intent. He stated that he believes you cannot design by
formula. It can make buildings very monotonous as everything looks the same.
He would prefer to see transparency as a set of guidelines rather than an
ordinance. Chair Robertson said the ordinance does not give the architect
enough freedom and is very limiting. He does not believe it will work.
Commissioner Eckholm said his first reaction would be to disagree with
Commissioner Robertson, but remembered attending a downtown Minneapolis
meeting where they were discussing the new YMCA on Nicollet. He said there
was difficulty meeting Minneapolis’ zoning and the innovative concept that the
developer came up with, was still not approved.
Ms. Monson said the ordinance realizes that not everyone can or should meet
this ordinance. That there is flexibility in the ordinance for staff, city council, or
planning commission to alter the requirements.
Chair Robertson said this is a thought, but it’s still not clear what is allowed and
how well it will be received.
Commissioner Carper explained he is uncomfortable with the ordinance and
doesn’t think all businesses can get a planned unit development like Trader
Joe’s. He also expressed concerns about restricting the floor space within the
building by three feet.
Ms. Monson explained staff feels the ordinance can be easily met and that
Trader Joe’s and Cub Foods signage and art would be considered alternate
pedestrian amenities under the code.
Commissioner Peilen expressed concerns that the ordinance is a response to a
problem with a couple buildings but it goes far into regulating.
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Unofficial Minutes
Planning Commission
January 16, 2019
Page 5
Chair Robertson responded that zoning codes increase cost and understands
that there are good reasons to it. He believes we need to also focus on
affordable commercial space.
Commissioner Kraft believed the intent of the ordinance is great, but believes
there are other ways to make a more active and inviting streetscape. She
suggested ways to equally prioritize different options; transparency is one option
another is art along with other multitude creative solution to better meet the
intent of what were after.
Commissioner Carper said he agrees with spirit and intent of the ordinance but
feels this may need more work. He suggested breaking the ordinance into parts.
Chair Robertson asked Mr. Walther if the commission should vote on the
ordinance and take the chance it wouldn’t pass or to table it and see it brought
back again soon.
Mr. Walther said there is no specific direction. This was a city generated request
by council and they would like to see it come to them at some stage for their
action. They are looking for Planning Commission’s input.
Chair Robertson said there was good conversation and feels some of things that
were troubling don’t seem to be addressed far enough. He stated that he would
like to make sure City Council has enough information on where the Planning
Commission stands. His preference would be to go forward with the vote.
Commissioner Carper clarified that city council can choose to act on this
ordinance in any matter they choose, so a yes and no by the planning
commission does not guarantee anything.
Commissioner Carper moved that the Planning Commission approve the zoning
ordinance on window transparency on the ground-floor street facing facades.
Commissioner Peilen seconded the motion.
Chair Robertson said the motion does not carry on a vote of 0-6 against the
motion.
Mr. Walther said the vote needs to have an affirmative motion to recommend
denial of the ordinance.
Chair Robertson requested a second motion.
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Unofficial Minutes
Planning Commission
January 16, 2019
Page 6
Commissioner Carper made a second motion to recommend denial of the zoning
ordinance for window transparency on the ground-floor street facing facades.
Commissioner Tatalovich seconded the motion, and the motion passed on a vote
of 6-0.
4.Other Business
5.Communications
6.Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 7:30pm and was followed by a study session.
STUDY SESSION
Density bonuses in the mixed-use zoning district draft ordinance.
Ms. Monson highlighted the 2040 comprehensive plan definition for mix use. She said
the mixed use land use category allows density from 20 units per acre to 75 units per
acre. She said that all of the land that is being re-guided as mixed use in the
comprehensive plan is already zoned C-2 which allows mixed use buildings with up to 50
units per acre with a conditional use permit. Therefore, 50 units per acre is being used a
starting point for the mixed use ordinance. However, if the site is rezoned to mixed use
there is a potential for a higher level of density. She said staff is looking for commission’s
input on items that would allow higher density, including affordable commercial space,
affordable housing, green building policy, and other site amenities.
Commissioner Peilen asked a question pertaining to a previous mixed use building
where one commissioner thought there wasn’t mixed use enough and therefore did not
support it and refers back to the slide where it talks about percentages. She asked if that
building would have met the new mixed-use standards.
Ms. Monson referred to the full draft of the ordinance and stated that 25% of the
primary façade on the ground floor could be used for a residential management office
but cannot be used for residential amenities while the rest of the ground floor primary
façade has to be a non-residential use.
Mr. Walther clarified the purpose of the definition in the comprehensive plan is to give
some indication for the city’s long term infrastructure planning and the metropolitan
council. The definition is only a guidance and offers flexibility.
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Unofficial Minutes
Planning Commission
January 16, 2019
Page 7
Commissioner Kraft asked for clarification on the city’s Green Building policy as it seems
close to the Renewable Energy resource policy.
Ms. Monson agreed the two policies overlap. She stated the Green Building policy
requires developers to follow a green building system like LEED or B3, as well as meet
SB2030.
Mr. Walther explained how tax increment financing works within the city as it relates to
the Green Building policy.
Commissioner Eckholm suggested a density bonus option relating to the renewable
energy sources. He suggested a bonus for using a battery backup system versus a diesel
backup.
Chair Robertson suggested density points for a transit stop.
Commissioner Carper suggested density points for public meeting space for groups.
Mr. Walther mentioned that a lot of definition still needs to happen on the density
bonus piece, and asked if the commission would be comfortable moving ahead with the
remainder of the ordinance if it takes longer to figure out the density bonus options.
2. 2019 Commission Work Plan
Jacquelyn Kramer, Associate Planner, presented the planning commission 2019 work
plan report and asked if anyone had questions or anything to add.
Commissioners agreed that if there are additional items they want to bring to council,
they will bring them at a later time.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Elena Roberts
Office Assistant
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UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
FEBRUARY 6, 2019 – 6:00 p.m.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Lynne Carper, Matt Eckholm, Jessica Kraft,
Claudia Johnston-Madison, Joe Tatalovich, Lisa Peilen, Carl
Robertson, Alanna Franklin (youth member)
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT: Sean Walther, Jacquelyn Kramer, Gary Morrison, Clint Pires
1.Small cell aesthetic requirements. Ms. Kramer presented a summary of an ordinance
amending the zoning ordinance proposed to be presented to the planning
commission at its February 20, 2019 meeting. The ordinance proposes to amend
Section 36-67 regarding Communication Towers and Antennas to remove references
to communication towers and antennas located in the public right-of-way and
restructure the ordinance. It was explained that communication towers and
antennas to be located in the right-of-way will no longer be regulated by the zoning
ordinance, but will instead be regulated by Chapter 24 of the city code that regulates
streets, sidewalks and public places. Amendments to Chapter 24 are currently being
processed simultaneously with the zoning ordinance amendment with the intent
that the city council will act on both amendments at the same time. The
amendments to Chapter 24 were also summarized for the planning commission.
Clint Pires was present to answer questions pertaining to small wireless facilities,
how they work and how they may be accommodated in the public right-of-way.
2.Annual Report / 2019 Work Plan. Ms. Kramer presented the annual report and work
plan. There was a brief discussion. Commissioner Peilen will present the report at
the annual Boards and Commission Annual Meeting on February 25, 2019.
3.C-1 District retail/service/liquor store size limits. Mr. Morrison presented an updated
proposal for amendments to the C-1 District. The updated amendment proposes to
establish a 5,000 sf maximum for retail and service uses up to classification 4, and a
20,000 sf maximum for uses exceeding classification 4. It also clarifies that the
classification table does not apply to the residential portion of buildings containing
residential uses. The planning commission agreed with the updated amendment
with the exception that the retail and service uses permitted up to, and including
class 4 be increased to 7,500 sf.
Respectfully submitted,
Elena Roberts
Recording Secretary
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Planning Commission
Meeting Date: February 20, 2019
Agenda Item 1
1.Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Small Wireless Facilities
Case Number: 19-04-ZA
Recommended
Action:
Chair to close public hearing.
Motion to recommend approval of an ordinance amending
Sections 36-142 and 36-367 of the zoning ordinance pertaining
to small wireless facilities.
Background: The proposed amendment creates design and location requirements for new
small cell wireless technology proposed on private property.
Amendments to Chapter 36 - Zoning and Chapter 24 – Streets, Sidewalks, and Public Places are
precipitated by laws passed by the State of Minnesota and rulings passed by the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC). The state law and federal rules both restrict local
governments’ ability to apply standard land use controls on small cell wireless facilities located
in the public right-of-ways. While these laws and rulings limit local government control of
facilities in public right-of-way, they allow for reasonable land use controls on facilities located
on private or government owned property.
An ordinance amending Chapter 24 of the city code is also proposed to similarly regulate small
cell wireless facilities located in the public right-of-way. Chapter 24 is not part of the zoning
ordinance, therefore, it is not included in this public hearing. The content of that amendment,
however, is attached to the report for your information. The city council will conduct the public
hearing for the amendment to Chapter 24 the same evening that they consider the zoning
amendment on March 4, 2019.
The Federal Communications Commission has set a deadline of April 15, 2019 for municipalities
to publish aesthetic requirements for small wireless facilities. It is the city’s desire to have an
ordinance effective prior to that date.
Summary of ordinance: Staff prepared the attached zoning amendment to:
1.Clarify existing regulations.
2.Remove references in Chapter 36 regarding communication towers and antennas that are
located in public right-of-way, and moving those regulations to Chapter 24.
3.Establish design criteria that are consistent with current technology and the design
criteria proposed in the amendment to Chapter 24.
Previous action: Planning commission most recently reviewed the proposed ordinance at its
study session held February 8, 2019.
Meeting of February 20, 2018 Page 2
Subject: Small Cell Wireless
Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the attached ordinance amending Sections
36-142 and 36-367 of the zoning code pertaining to small wireless facilities.
Attachments: Draft zoning ordinance
Summary of criteria proposed to be adopted into Chapter 24
Prepared by: Jacquelyn Kramer, Associate Planner
Reviewed by: Gary Morrison, Assistant Zoning Administrator
Sean Walther, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
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Ordinance No. ___-19
Ordinance regarding small wireless facilities
The City of St. Louis Park does ordain:
Section 1. Chapter 36 of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby amended by adding
underscored text and deleting strikethrough text. Section breaks are represented by ***.
Sec. 36.142. Descriptions.
***
(c) Institutional uses. The following are typical of the institutional uses referred to in this
chapter.
(1)Antenna means any free-standing structure or device attached to a building, pole,
tower, utility structure, or similar structure used for the purpose of collecting or
transmitting electromagnetic waves through the air, including but not limited to small
wireless facilities, wireless facilities, wireless telecommunication facilities, directional
antennas, such as panels, microwaves dishes, and satellite dishes, and omni-
directional antennas, such as whip antennas, except for Building-Mounted antennas
for private use on the premises where it is located, such as amateur radio antennas,
and antennas receiving television or radio signals.
(2)Communication tower means a free-standing structure which the primary purpose of
which is to support one or more antennae and includes accessory uses directly related
to the tower, such as utility buildings. Communication tower includes wireless support
structure.
***
(16)Micro wireless facility. A small wireless facility that is no larger than 24 inches long, 15
inches wide, and 12 inches high, and whose exterior antenna, if any, is no longer than
11 inches.
(17)Small wireless facility.
a.a wireless facility that meets both of the following qualifications:
(i)each antenna is located inside an enclosure of no more than six cubic feet in
volume or, in the case of an antenna that has exposed elements, the antenna
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and all its exposed elements could fit within an enclosure of no more than six
cubic feet; and
(ii)all other wireless equipment associated with the small wireless facility,
excluding electric meters, concealment elements, telecommunications
demarcation boxes, battery backup power systems, grounding equipment,
power transfers switches, cutoff switches, cable, conduit, vertical cable runs
for connection of power and other services, and any equipment concealed
from public view within or behind an existing structure or concealment, is in
aggregate no more than 28 cubic feet in volume; or
b.a micro wireless facility.
(18)Wireless facility. Equipment at a fixed location that enables the provision of wireless
services between user and equipment and a wireless service network, including: (1)
equipment associated with wireless service; (2) a radio transceiver, antenna, coaxial or
fiber-optic cable, regular and backup power supplies, and comparable equipment,
regardless of technological configuration; and (3) a small wireless facility. Wireless
facility does not include: (1) wireless support structures, (2) wireline backhaul
facilities, or (3) coaxial or fiber-optic cables between utility poles or wireless support
structures, or that are not otherwise immediately adjacent to or directly associated
with a specific antenna.
(19)Wireless service. Any service using licensed or unlicensed wireless spectrum, including
the use of Wi-Fi whether at a fixed location or by means of a mobile device that is
provided using wireless facilities. Wireless service does not include services regulated
under Title VI of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, including a cable
service under United States Code, title 47, section 522 clause (6).
(20)Wireless support structure. A new or existing structure designed to support or capable
of supporting small wireless facilities, as reasonably determined by the city.
(21)Wireless telecommunication facility. Equipment used to provide wireless
telecommunication or data services, including all antennas, radios, support devices,
equipment including ground equipment, associated cables, and attachments.
***
Article V. Special Provisions
***
Sec. 36-367. Communication towers and antennas.
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***
(c)Communication Tower and Antenna Design Requirements. Communication towers and
antennas proposed or modified anywhere in the city shall meet the following design
requirements:
(1)Communication towers up to 120 feet in height shall be of a monopole type.
(2)The city may impose reasonable requirements to preserve the design, appearance or
intended purpose of a structure when collocation is proposed.
(3)Antenna designs and mounts shall be designed to minimize visual impact.
(4)All small wireless facilities and their support structures must use the same color
and/or finish as the pole they are mounted to.
(5)Antenna must be mounted within two (2) inches of the support pole.
(6)With the exception of the antenna, all components of the small wireless facilities,
including wires and conduit must be located inside the building, structure, or pole it is
attached to, and inside the, mounting bracket used to attach the antenna to the
building, structure or pole it is attached to. Wires and conduit must also be placed
underground when applicable. Components of the antenna may be screened from off-
site views when located on the roof of a building.
(7)Communication towers shall not be illuminated by artificial means and shall not
display strobe lights unless such lighting is specifically required by the Federal Aviation
Administration or other federal or state law or regulation that preempts local
regulations. Wireless facilities and lighting may collocate if the lighting is intended for
pedestrian or traffic safety or to illuminate parking lots or recreational fields.
(8)All small wireless facilities and support facilities must comply with city’s noise
regulations.
(9)Back-up battery facilities that generate noise are prohibited.
(10)Small wireless facilities shall not obstruct city street and wayfinding signage.
(11)The use of any portion of a communication tower for displaying flags or signs other
than warning or equipment information signs is prohibited.
(12)No stickers, signs, or decals are allowed to be visible on small wireless facilities. The
exception to this rule are safety alerts required by law. These must be placed on the
back or underside of facilities.
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(13)Ground equipment associated with a communication tower or antenna shall be
housed in a building. The building shall meet the architectural design standards of the
Zoning Ordinance, and shall meet the minimum communication tower setback
requirements of the underlying zoning district. This provision shall not apply to small
wireless facilities.
(14)Wireless facilities and wireless support structures shall maintain at least eight feet of
clearance from other poles, furniture, landscaping, art and other obstructions.
(15)All small wireless facilities must be mounted so that there is a vertical clearance of at
least twelve (12) feet between the facility and the grade at the base of the structure.
(16)Every communication tower or free-standing antenna shall be protected to discourage
climbing of the tower or antenna by unauthorized persons.
(17)No small wireless facility may extend more than ten (10) feet above its wireless
support structure.
(d)Free-Standing Antennas. Any antenna that is a separate structure and not attached to a
building shall comply with all height and other requirements of this Chapter relating to
Towers.
(ce) Co-Location Requirements.
(1)A proposal for a new communication tower or antenna shall not be approved unless
the applicant shows that the antenna cannot be reasonably accommodated on an
existing pole, structure, communication tower or building.
(2)The owner of any communication tower exceeding 50 feet in height constructed after
the effective date of this Ordinance shall permit the reasonable joint use of the
structure for other antennas.
(f)Building-Mounted Antennas.
(1)Antennas attached to a building shall be no higher than 10 feet above the highest
point of the building.
(2)All building-mounted equipment shall be consistent with the architectural features of
the building and be painted to match the color of the building exterior, roof or sky,
whichever most effectively screens the equipment, as determined by the Zoning
Administrator.
(d)Communication Tower Setbacks.
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(1)Monopoles shall be setback at least 10 feet from all lot lines. Communication towers of
all other construction types shall be setback a distance equal to 1.5 times their
engineered collapse radius or a distance equal to their height, whichever is less.
(2)All communication towers shall be located a minimum distance of twice their height
from any parcel zoned or used for residential purposes, or zoned mixed-use.
(3)Communication towers shall not be located between a principal structure and a public
street, with the following exceptions:
a.In industrial zoning districts, communication towers may be placed between the
building and the side lot line abutting a street.
b.On sites adjacent to public streets on all sides, communication towers may be placed
between the building and either the side lot line abutting a street or the rear lot line.
(eg) Location specific regulations for communication towers and antennas.
(1)Residential Zoning Districts.
a.No more than one communication tower is allowed per parcel zoned and used for
residential. Communication towers located on parcels occupied by residential
dwellings are only allowed in the rear yard.
(2)Communication towers located on parcels occupied by residential dwellings are only
allowed in the rear yard.
(3)b. Communication towers and antennas located on property zoned residential, and used
for residential purposes shall be limited to communication towers and antennas used
for the private enjoyment of those on the premises.
(2)Antennas in the Public Right-of-Way. Antennas may co-locate on existing poles or
communication towers in the City, County, or State right-of-way within any zoning
district. A City Public Works permit for uses in the public right-of-way and written
permission from applicable jurisdictions are required.
(4)Monopoles shall be setback at least 10 feet from all lot lines. Communication towers
of all other construction types shall be setback a distance equal to 1.5 times their
engineered collapse radius or a distance equal to their height, whichever is less,
except that all communication towers located on private property shall be located a
minimum distance of twice their height from any parcel zoned or used for residential
purposes, or zoned mixed-use.
(5)All equipment located on the ground shall be set back as to comply with the minimum
yards of the zoning district they are located in, except that equipment located entirely
underground is allowed to encroach into the required yards.
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(6)Communication towers shall not be located between a principal structure and a lot
line adjacent to a street, with the following exceptions:
a.In industrial zoning districts, communication towers may be placed between the
building and the side lot line abutting a street.
b.On sites adjacent to public streets on all sides, communication towers may be placed
between the building and either the side lot line abutting a street or the rear lot line.
(7)Public Right-of-Way. Communication towers and antennas may be installed in the
public right-of-way as permitted by Chapter 24, Article VII, Division 2 of the St. Louis
Park City Code.
(38)A communication tower that complies with all other requirements of this chapter is
allowed as a conditional use in a wetland, public waters wetland, Wetland
Conservation Act (WCA) wetland, flood fringe district or general floodplain district.
The standards for the issuance of a conditional use permit shall be the general criteria
contained in this chapter applicable to all conditional use permits and the specific
requirements for conditional uses in the flood fringe and general floodplain districts.
The tower shall also comply with all other applicable laws and regulations.
(f)Communication Tower and Antenna Design Requirements. Proposed or modified
communication towers and antennas shall meet the following design requirements.
(1)Communication towers up to 120 feet in height shall be of a monopole type.
(2)Antenna designs and mounts shall be designed to minimize visual impact.
(3)Communication Tower Lighting. Communication towers shall not be illuminated by
artificial means and shall not display strobe lights unless such lighting is specifically
required by the Federal Aviation Administration or other federal or state law or
regulation that preempts local regulations.
(4)Signs, Advertising and Display. The use of any portion of a communication tower for
displaying flags, signs other than warning or equipment information signs is
prohibited.
(5)Associated Equipment. Ground equipment associated with a communication tower or
antenna shall be housed in a building. The building shall meet the architectural design
standards of the Zoning Ordinance, and shall meet the minimum communication
tower setback requirements of the underlying zoning district.
(gh) Communication Tower Construction and Maintenance Permit Requirements. All
antennae and communication towers erected, constructed, or located within the City shall
obtain a building permit.
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(1)Construction Requirements. All antennae and communication towers erected,
constructed, or located within the City shall obtain a building permit. Every
communication tower or free-standing antenna shall be protected to discourage climbing
of the tower or antenna by unauthorized persons.
(2i) Maintenance Requirements. Communication tower and antenna shall be structurally
sound. Additionally, finish and paint shall be maintained in good condition, free from rust,
graffiti, peeling paint, or other blemish.
(h)Building-Mounted Antennas.
(1)Antennas attached to a building shall be no higher than 30 feet above the highest
point of the building.
(2)All building-mounted equipment shall be consistent with the architectural features of
the building and be painted to match the color of the building exterior, roof or sky,
whichever is most effective, as determined by the Zoning Administrator.
(i)Free-Standing Antennas. Any antenna that is a separate structure and not attached
to a building shall comply with all height and other requirements of this Chapter
relating to Towers.
Section 2. The remainder of Section 36-367 shall be renumbered in accordance with the
amendments above.
Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after its publication.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council (insert date)
Thomas K. Harmening, City Manager Jake Spano, Mayor
Attest: Approved as to form and execution:
Melissa Kennedy, City Clerk Soren Mattick, City Attorney
First Reading March 4, 2019
Second Reading March 18, 2019
Date of Publication (date)
Date Ordinance takes effect (date)
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Summary of criteria proposed to be adopted into Chapter 24
(1)Wireless support structures in the public right of way are permitted with the following conditions:
a.All wireless support structures must meet the requirements of the adopted wireless support
structure design criteria. New structures, replacement of existing structures and
modifications to existing structures shall be at the expense of the applicant. (Note: When
replacing a pole, this criteria requires the new structure to match the previous structure in
every way. If they are unable to, then as an alternative, they can install a plan b pole that is
bland in every way, designed to blend in and be overlooked.)
b.Wireless support structures shall not exceed 50 feet in height except that a wireless support
structure that replaces an existing wireless support structure in the public right-of-way that
is greater than 50 feet in height may be placed at the height of the existing wireless support
structure.
c.Preference shall be given to locating small wireless facilities in the boulevard, rather than
medians.
d.To facilitate maintenance and visibility, wireless facilities and wireless support structures
shall maintain at least eight feet of clearance from other poles, furniture, landscaping, art
and other objects located in the right-of-way.
e.Wireless support structures proposed to be installed on a block with an approved
streetscape plan must install a structure consistent with the design required by the plan.
(2)Small wireless facilities shall be placed on a wireless support structure, and shall meet the
following requirements:
a.Small wireless facilities shall co-locate on existing structures. Exceptions shall be granted by
the City Engineer when co-location will impair the primary purpose and intent of existing
structures or any attachments thereto.
b.When installing a new wireless support structure, the new structure shall not impair or reduce
the effectiveness of existing or planned structures, signage or other equipment intended to
provide or improve public health, welfare and/or safety.
c.Equipment design and mounts shall be designed to minimize visual impact.
d. The small wireless facilities (with the exception of antenna) must be located inside the
structure. The antenna must be mounted within two (2) inches of the support pole.
e.The small wireless facility must use the same color and/or finish as the structure it is mounted
to. Alternative colors and finishes may be approved by the City Engineer to improve aesthetics
and/or compatibility with other attachments to the structure.
f.Wires servicing small wireless facilities must be located inside the wireless support structure,
mounting brackets, and underground.
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g.Small wireless facilities mounted to the exterior of, or projecting outside of the wireless
support structure must maintain a vertical clearance of at least twelve (12) feet between the
facility and the grade at the base of the structure.
h.No stickers, signs, or decals are allowed to be visible on small wireless facilities. The exception
to this rule are safety alerts required by law. The city may impose reasonable requirements to
preserve the design, appearance or intended purpose of a structure when collocation is
proposed.
i.Small wireless facilities and support facilities must comply with city’s noise regulations.
(3)Equipment associated with the antenna of a small wireless facility may be located on the ground if
the City Engineer determines there is not sufficient space to locate the equipment on the
structure. The equipment shall meet the following requirements:
a.Ground-mounted equipment shall not disrupt traffic or pedestrian circulation and shall not
interfere with vehicle or pedestrian intersection sight lines;
b. Ground-mounted equipment shall not create a safety hazard;
c.The ground-mounted equipment shall be located where the side lot line meets the front lot
line. If this is not feasible, then it shall be located in an area so to minimize impacts on
adjacent property;
d.If placed above grade, ground-mounted equipment must be limited to three feet in height and
28 cubic feet in cumulative size;
e.The equipment shall not impede pedestrian travel on sidewalks and trails. A minimum travel
path of six feet in width shall be maintained between the equipment and the edge of sidewalk
and/or other obstructions.
f.The colors and/or materials of ground equipment protective screening shall be designed to
blend into the streetscape, match existing buildings adjacent to the right of way or shall be
wrapped in a public art graphic. The design of ground equipment shall minimize their visual
impact in the right of way.
g.Equipment located on the ground shall be encased in a protective screening enclosure so that
no wires, cables or sharp edges are exposed.
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Meeting of February 20, 2019
Subject: Historic Walker Lake Small Area Revitalization and Design Guidelines
Planning Commission
Meeting Date: February 20, 2019
Study Session Item 1
1.Walker Lake Small Area Revitalization Plan and Design Guidelines
RECOMMENDED ACTION: None at this time
SUMMARY: Activation and revitalization efforts for Historic Walker Lake have been a city
priority for several years. In October 2018, the city began a process to create a small area
revitalization plan and design guidelines for the Historic Walker Lake study area. The small area
plan will provide development concepts and project ideas that enhance the area’s identity,
activity, appeal, and economic vitality. The study includes a parking analysis with land use and
policy recommendations, and will include recommended design standards to regulate future
investment that occurs in the area. The plan will also identify opportunities for public art,
wayfinding and placemaking. Finally, the study will include an implementation plan that
includes cost estimates and identifies potential funding sources.
Since hiring the consultant, Asakura Robinson, in October, the city has hosted two community
meetings and a business owner meeting for the Historic Walker Lake revitalization and small
area plan. In addition, over 40 percent of area businesses and property owners have been
surveyed to better inform the plan.
Study Session February 20: Staff will present a summary of the existing condition report and
preliminary plan recommendations to planning commission.
NEXT STEPS: At a future planning commission study session, the consultant and staff will
present the final small area plan and plan recommendations.
Additional steps for the planning commission will depend on the final plan recommendations,
but are likely to include proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance, specifically relating to
parking, use, building size, setbacks and massing requirements.
ATTACHMENTS:
•Map of Historic Walker Lake study area
•Public meeting summary November 14, 2018, available on the city’s website or for
viewing in the city’s Community Development Department
•Existing conditions draft, available on the city’s website or for viewing in the city’s
Community Development Department
Prepared by: Jennifer Monson, Planner
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
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Meeting of February 20, 2019
Subject: Historic Walker Lake Small Area Revitalization and Design Guidelines
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