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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020/04/15 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - Planning Commission - RegularAGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION WEBEX VIDEOCONFERENCE 6:00 P.M. APRIL 15, 2020 All meetings of the St. Louis Park Planning Commission will be conducted by telephone or other electronic means until further notice. This is in accordance with a local emergency declaration issued by Mayor Jake Spano March 16, 2020 in response to the coronavirus (COVID -19) pandemic. Additionally, city facilities are closed to the public through May 4 in keeping with the Executive Orders 20-20 and 20-33 issued by Gov. Tim Walz directing Minnesotans to Stay at Home March 28 through May 4, 2020. All members of the St. Louis Park Planning Commission will participate in the April 15, 2020 planning commission meeting by electronic device or telephone rather than by being personally present at the planning commission’s regular meeting place at 5005 Minnetonka Blvd. Members of the public can monitor this meeting by video and audio at https://bit.ly/watchslppc and on local cable (Comcast SD channel 17, or CenturyLink SD channel 8117 and HD channel 8617) or by calling +1-312-535-8110 meeting number (access code): 359 770 50 for audio only. Cisco Webex will be used to conduct videoconference meetings of the planning commission, with planning commissioners and staff participating from multiple locations. There are no public hearings at this meeting; therefore, a call-in option for the general public will not be supported. AGENDA 1.Call to order – Roll Call 2.Approval of minutes – February 19, 2020 and March 4, 2020 3.Hearings 3a.POSTPONED. This matter will not be discussed at this meeting. Union Congregational Church affordable rehousing development Applicant: Project for Pride in Living (PPL) Case No.: 20-03-CP, 20-04-S, 20-05-PUD 4.Other Business: None. 5.Communications 5a. Practice remote meeting 6.Adjournment 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. 1 2 UNOFFICIAL MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA February 19, 2020 – 6:00 p.m. COMMUNITY ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Beneke, Matt Eckholm, Courtney Erwin, Claudia Johnston-Madison, Jessica Kraft, Carl Robertson MEMBERS ABSENT: Lynette Dumalag STAFF PRESENT: Gary Morrison, Sean Walther 1. Call to Order – Roll Call 2. Approval of Minutes of Feb 5, 2020 Commissioner Johnston-Madison made a motion to approve the minutes. Commissioner Eckholm seconded the motion and the motion passed on a vote of 6-0. 3. Public Hearings A. Cedarwood Dachis Addition preliminary and final plat Applicant: Toni Dachis Case Nos: 19-39-Sm 19-40-VAR Gary Morrison, assistant zoning administrator, presented the staff report. The applicant requested a subdivision and variance at 4000 25th Street West, in the Fern Hill neighborhood. He noted the lot sizes for Lots 1, 2, and 3. Access to lot 1 will be unchanged off 25th Street West, lot 2 will access France Avenue, and lot 3 access could be off France Avenue South or 25th Street West. Mr. Morrison stated there are no proposals for tree removal, but this will be determined when building permits are submitted for lots 2 and 3. He noted sidewalks will be included along 25th Street West. The house and pool house are in the back yard, according to current code. With the subdivision, however, the lot lines are reoriented, so the front and rear yards will change, and the variance request becomes evident because the pool house will be in the side yard, after the changes. Mr. Morrison stated the property use is single family residential, consistent with low density residential designation. He stated if the variance is not approved, the pool house would need to be relocated or removed. Two people spoke in favor of 3 Unofficial Minutes Planning Commission Feb 19, 2020 Page 2 the applications at the neighborhood meeting and a letter of support was received from a third resident. Mr. Morrison stated that staff requests approval of the preliminary and final plat, subject to the conditions recommended by staff. Further, staff recommended approval of the variance to allow an accessory structure in the side yard, subject to the conditions recommended by staff. Commissioner Robertson asked about the sidewalk at the subdivision and if it would connect with any other sidewalks. Mr. Morrison stated it would connect to the sidewalk on the west side of France Avenue South and a sidewalk on the east side of Huntington Avenue South. Commission Johnson-Madison asked if the sidewalk will dead-end on 25th street. Mr. Morrison stated it will not continue and connect to any sidewalks west of the site along 25th Street West, adding the city engineering department recently lead a public process regarding potentially adding more sidewalks in this neighborhood and city council decided not to pursue that option. Chair Kraft opened the public hearing. Lynne Carper, 4010 Highwood Road, stated initially the sign posted about the work was not clear. He initially thought it was referring to the road and sidewalk improvements planned for this summer. It wasn’t until he spoke with Councilmember Rog that he learned there was a subdivision proposed here. Mr. Carper stated he has been aware of subdivisions in his area, and stated the preference was for not doing subdivisions in these neighborhoods. However, he added, he does understand property owners do have the right to do what they prefer on their properties, so he will support this. Additionally, he asked if the zoning will change now or in the future from single-family housing. Mr. Morrison stated the property is guided in the comprehensive plan as low- density residential and zoned R-2 residential. Staff does not anticipate any changes. Mr. Carper wondered if the lots would meet the minimum lot size, and indeed it does, according to Mr. Morrison’s presentation. He asked at what point does the sidewalk get constructed, and does the owner put the sidewalks in. 4 Unofficial Minutes Planning Commission Feb 19, 2020 Page 3 Mr. Morrison stated the sidewalk installation will be at the applicant’s expense and will be coordinated with street improvements in the area. Mr. Carper asked about driveways and if there will be a driveway on the northern most side of the property. There is no intention to have a second driveway on France Avenue, it will come off 25th Street. Mr. Morrison stated there will be a final decision made by the engineering department when right-of-way permits are requested and when the house plans are submitted for building permits. Mr. Carper asked if a house is inserted will the new address be on France Avenue. Mr. Morrison stated staff will look at this and can make a change administratively with the owner’s consent. Michael Meyer, 2512 Huntington Avenue South, stated the property is well maintained and very open. He is concerned that once the property is changed, it’s gone. He is also concerned about hardscape and the addition of sidewalks, patios, foundations, as well. He stated about 20 trees might have to be removed and he has concerns about this as well, and is concerned the replacements might not be made in the same area. He asked if the home will fit into the neighborhood, adding he is concerned about this, and about the impact on his home as it relates to the view. Right now, there is no parking on France Avenue at this area, and he is concerned about where folks will park when visiting and overflow parking. Mr. Meyer added there is a city bus turnout, asked if that will stay or go, and if the bus company be brought into this discussion. He is also concerned about proximity the to the holding ponds and Cedar Lake area. Mr. Meyer stated if approved will this be two separate lots. He asked if other builders come in, will they build in order to benefit the other properties in the area. This summer the roads in this area will be reconstructed. He is concerned about the mess that will occur with both projects going on simultaneously. He is also concerned about a two-story home and how it will affect their view. Also, if the driveways are on France Avenue, he has concerns about traffic there, and on 25th Street, especially with safety for bikers and pedestrians. Toni Dachis, 4000 West 25th Street, is the applicant. She stated the concerns are legitimate; she has thought about them and will do what she can to accommodate what was mentioned, if she has control. She stated she needs to be able to move and downsize and she hopes a new owner will keep the existing house as is. 5 Unofficial Minutes Planning Commission Feb 19, 2020 Page 4 The Chair closed the public hearing. Commissioner Johnston-Madison stated she is very familiar with this beautiful area. She stated she has learned nothing stays the same, times change and she feels the value of the neighborhood will determine the value of the homes built on lot 2 and 3. The houses built on the lots will likely fit in with the neighborhood and she will vote to approve this. Commission Elkholm agreed and added the applicant has gone out of their way to make this right by the neighborhood. He hates to see the loss of mature trees and the best that can be done is to require that they are replaced. He will support this. Commissioner Beneke asked if there is any consideration to bike trails on France Avenue. Sean Walther, planning and zoning supervisor, stated there is already a bike lane on France Avenue and a sidewalk on the west side of the road as well, and there are no other plans at this time. Commissioner Robertson stated this is a good plan and the concerns are valid, however, folks have the right to do what they want with their own property. He asked about the location of the bus turnout, and if the south lot wants to have access off France Avenue, will the turnout be moveable. He stated he will support this project. Mr. Morrison stated the first priority would be to not change a turnout. If it does need to be changed, there is a process with Metro Transit and a cost associated with it. Chair Kraft likes the plan as well and is excited about the single-family home development. She stated the loss of trees is sad, but she is glad for the replacement program. Commissioner Robertson made a motion, Commissioner Elkholm seconded, recommending approval of the addition of the preliminary and final plat, and the variance on the side yard, subject to the recommendations by staff. The motion passed on a vote of 6-0. B. High school artificial turf field conditional use permit, application 19-33- CUP was withdrawn by the applicant, Thomas Bravo 6 Unofficial Minutes Planning Commission Feb 19, 2020 Page 5 4. Other Business - none 5. Communications Mr. Walther stated Feb. 24, 2020, is the Boards and Commissions annual meeting at Treehouse, 5757 Wayzata Boulevard, from 6-8 p.m. There will be a light dinner and a dance performance from Wat Prom Buddhist Temple. This is meant to be a celebration of accomplishments from 2019. Commissioner Elkholm will present on behalf of the planning commission the commission’s accomplishments last year and some of the issues on the work plan for 2020. Mr. Walther added a joint meeting with the city council to discuss the 2020 work plan will be held on May 26. The next planning commission meeting on March 4 will be a study session only in the Westwood Conference Room from 6-7 p.m. and the Historic Walker Lake draft ordinance will be discussed. Following the study session, a joint meeting with several boards and commissions from 7-8 p.m. in the council chambers to hear a presentation from Alicia Sojourner, racial equity manager, about racial equity and inclusion in St. Louis Park. 6. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 6:38 p.m. 7 8 UNOFFICIAL MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA March 4, 2020 – 6:00 p.m. COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Beneke, Lynette Dumalag, Matt Eckholm, Courtney Erwin, Claudia Johnston-Madison, Jessica Kraft, Carl Robertson MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Jennifer Monson, planner; Laura Chamberlain, planning consultant with HKGi STUDY SESSION The study session commenced at 6:00 p.m. 1. Establishing a New Base Zoning District for Historic Walker Lake Laura Chamberlain, HKGi consultant, provided background on the plan and how implementation will lead to work on establishing a zoning district for Historic Walker Lake. Ms. Chamberlain noted the plan was approved by city council in January 2020. The plan considers three topic areas: establishment of an overlay zoning district to preserve character, wayfinding and placemaking, and a merchant’s association and affordability. Ms. Chamberlain stated recommended changes to uses in the area include light industrial, food vendors, and breweries. She added the overlay recommendations also refer to signage, street furniture, unique features, parking requirements, and designating shared parking opportunities. Ms. Chamberlain stated the ordinance will allow for a combination of smaller scaled industrial and commercial uses in this area but will not allow stand-alone apartment buildings. She noted the city recently updated the mixed-use zoning district and staff and consultants are recommending a similar approach be used here, as well. She added establishing parking standards was a top priority and the city already adopted a new parking ordinance for the district. Commissioner Johnston-Madison stated that there is no comparable historic district within the city today but suggested the district be able to be applied to other areas of the city if needed in the future. 9 Unofficial Minutes Planning Commission March 4, 2020 Page 2 Ms. Chamberlain stated the district is mixed-use in nature with commercial and retail uses. She stated the city has residential, commercial and mixed-use divisions within the zoning ordinance, and Historic Walker Lake could be a new mixed-use district that lives within the mixed-use division currently in existence within the code. Ms. Chamberlain stated that staff is looking at the revitalization plan to see what elements are necessary to establish zoning standards and which should be design guidelines. Commissioner Kraft asked if the code will refer to the guidelines. Ms. Chamberlain stated yes. Commissioner Beneke asked if there would still be a primary entrance area. Ms. Monson stated yes, this could still be included in the guidelines. Ms. Chamberlain stated that the revitalization plan gives recommendations on building materials, colors, and design that can be used a guidance. She added that these items refer more to the scale of the building rather than the actual design, and that the city already has some standards on building design. Commissioner Johnston-Madison stated the scale of the new apartment building in Linden Hills took into consideration the scale of the surrounding buildings and looks fine in the area. Commissioner Robertson noted a bill that is currently being reviewed at the state legislature where cities would only be allowed to have buildings that meet the basic building codes only. Ms. Monson stated staff is aware of this and lobbyists are working on this issue. Commissioner Robertson stated this type of bill is filled with unintended consequences for city building and zoning codes. Commissioner Dumalag asked if any of the buildings are historic. Ms. Monson stated no but through a public process the area was branded Historic Walker Lake. Ms. Chamberlain noted that the guidelines will include landscaping recommendations. Ms. Monson stated the purpose of the guidelines for the landscaping will be to enhance the unique and eclectic features of the area and buildings. She explained that one landscape design for the entire area would be more difficult to establish since the property owners are not interested in a special service district at this time. 10 Unofficial Minutes Planning Commission March 4, 2020 Page 3 Ms. Chamberlain asked the commission if they support this approach for the district through a new zoning district and separate design guidelines. Also, she asked if there are items that should be added. Commissioner Robertson stated the standards and guidelines all seem appropriate. He stated he would like to see flexibility within the code so it can apply for future districts if the city is if going toward a form-based type zoning district. Ms. Monson stated that we can make the code flexible and that we should discuss TOD district requirements further and at a different time. Commissioner Johnston-Madison stated each historical district must be established and a vision created. Commissioner Robertson asked how many other historic districts the city will have. He added if there will be others within the city, will this type of planning be done in those areas, and should the historic district be more of a generic description of the concept. Ms. Monson stated she agrees there is potential for other similar areas within the city where the standards might be similar but then there might be a difference design guideline for each area. Commissioner Johnston-Madison and Commissioner Robertson agreed. Commissioner Beneke asked if there is any plan to do anything along Highway 7 in the open area in front of the Central Community Center building. Ms. Monson stated that the area is city-owned right of way with a small portion owned by the school district. She stated that the city and school district have talked about using that space for additional parking if necessary, but that the revitalization plan identifies that area for a shared active space that can be flexible as needed. Ms. Chamberlain stated there are additional topics to come back and discuss further with the commission, including the ordinance and design guidelines. Commissioner Robertson asked a question about landscaping and whether the city allows perennial gardens and pollinator landscaping. Ms. Monson stated the city does encourage native plantings. The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m. 11 12 Planning commission: Regular meeting Meeting date: April 15, 2020 Agenda item: 3a 3a Union Congregational Church Location: 3700 Alabama Avenue South, 6027 37th Street West Case Number: 20-03-CP, 20-04-S, 20-05-PUD Applicant: Project for Pride in Living (PPL) Owner: Union Congregational Church Review Deadline: 60 days: May 1, 2020 120 days: June 30, 2020 Recommended motions: POSTPONED. This matter will not be discussed at this meeting. Summary of request: On March 2, 2020, Project for Pride in Living (PPL) submitted planning applications to the City of St. Louis Park proposing a four-story apartment building at 3700 Alabama Avenue South. The St. Louis Park Planning Commission was scheduled to hold a public hearing on these applications on April 15, 2020. That has been postponed. After feedback from the neighborhood and city staff, PPL asked to postpone the public hearing while they consider further revisions to the development plans. The city received the request to postpone the hearing after the notices were mailed and after the city sent legal notices to the Sun Sailor newspaper for publication on April 2 and April 9. After PPL submits revised plans, the city will reschedule the public hearing. A new legal notice will be published in the Sun Sailor and another letter will be mailed to all property owners within 500 feet of the development site to provide notice at least 10 days before the public hearing. The project webpage on the city website will also be updated when more details are available: https://www.stlouispark.org/government/departments-divisions/community- development/development-projects/union-congregational-church Questions from the public regarding the development may be directed to Jacquelyn Kramer, associate planner, by email at jkramer@stlouispark.org or by phone at 952.928.1375. PPL also requested an extension of the statutory review deadline to July 7, 2020, in order for the city to accommodate their request for more time. Prepared by: Sean Walther, planning and zoning supervisor 13 14 Planning commission: Regular meeting Meeting date: April 15, 2020 Agenda item: 5a 5a Practice remote meeting Summary: This meeting is an opportunity for planning commissioners to practice leading and participating in a remote meeting. You will sign into a Webex meeting, test your systems, and experience how this and upcoming meetings will need to be conducted in order to meet public health guidelines while meeting all legal requirements. We hope this exercise will be helpful. We will try to answer your questions and troubleshoot any technical difficulties that may arise. We also want to do this efficiently. The meeting will be advertised and televised, and we will have several staff supporting this meeting. The city council held their April 6, 2020, meeting remotely, staff presented slides, and took public comments via telephone, and all votes were done by roll call. Watching portions of the meeting recording on the city website would show how it looks and how it works, flaws and all. Of interest may be start of the meeting (minutes 0:00:00 – 0:03:10) and later in the meeting the transitions from a question of the developer to the first and the second callers (minutes 1:20:50 –1:29:00). Prepared by: Sean Walther, planning and zoning supervisor 15