HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022/10/12 - ADMIN - Minutes - Planning Commission - Study Session Planning commission
October 12, 2022
6:36 p.m.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call Sean Walther or the administration
department at 952.924.2525.
Planning commission
Study session
Members present: Jim Beneke, Mia Divecha, Matt Eckholm, Jessica Kraft, Michael Salzer,
Tom Weber, Jan Youngquist
Members absent: None
Staff present: Laura Chamberlain, Gary Morrison, Sean Walther
1. Update on Zoning Code Audit
Mr. Miller and Ms. Trapp of HKGi presented the zoning code audit report.
Commissioner Divecha asked about what the consultant meant by some procedures being
outdated. Mr. Miller stated this refers to code procedural requirements that do not match
state statute or are inconsistent with other section of the zoning code or city code.
Commissioner Weber asked about the definition of permitted by right. Mr. Miller stated
something is administratively allowed and do not need planning commission or city council
review and approval. Mr. Walther stated the zoning code lists uses that are permitted,
permitted with conditions, or accessory uses that are allowed and approved
administratively. A use allowed with a conditional use permit must be reviewed by the
planning commission and approved by city council.
Commissioner Kraft asked if the content of the code will be changed or if there will just be
changes that are more legible and readable with charts. Mr. Miller stated it would involve
editing content as well.
Commissioner Youngquist asked if there are issues with zoning code requirements with
densities in the comprehensive plan especially in the light rail station areas. Mr. Walther
stated yes, but that is not clear right now. He noted rules are being made to adapt to
certain sites adding the zoning codes now need to meet the comprehensive plan.
Commissioner Weber asked if there will be opportunities to make changes. Mr. Walther
stated yes and noted the upcoming session on housing also where commissions may want
to make changes.
Ms. Trapp gave a general overview of the code structure including history of codes and
current coding. She explained use-based codes vs. form-based codes as well.
Chair Beneke asked what areas have which codes. Ms. Trapp stated each area is not that
individualized. She added there are different approaches that can be used depending on
what the city decides.
Mr. Miller added the form-based code of St. Louis Park was proposed as a district within the
current code. He noted it has been complex because there are sub-districts.
Ms. Trapp discussed the smart code also noting it is based on districts and is a type of form-
based code. She also discussed the performance-based code.
Commissioner Eckholm asked which type of code Minneapolis falls into. Mr. Miller stated
they have a design map and district maps, and a type of form-based district.
Ms. Trapp stated the next meeting will discuss housing codes and zoning in St. Louis Park,
and where does the city go from here.
Commissioner Kraft noted she will be stepping down in November, as she will be moving to
Plymouth. She stated she will miss the commission and being involved in the city, adding
she has really enjoyed living in St. Louis Park.
Mr. Walther stated the council will either appoint an alternate chosen earlier this year to
replace Commissioner Kraft or the usual procedure will be followed for replacing a
commissioner who steps down.
2. Adjournment – 7:55 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Sean Walther, liaison Jim Beneke, chair member