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2012 - Planning Commission - Agendas & Minutes � Planning Commission Meeting canceled , January 2012 Lack of agenda items • • • Planning Commission Meeting canceled , February 2012 Lack of agenda items • • CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION AGENDA MARCH 14, 2012 — 7:00 PM PRIMG PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake Minnetonka 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. ADOPT AGENDA 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from November 9, 2011 b. Appointment of Chair and Alternate Chair 6. CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Boulevard Landscaping Ordinance Amendment i. Memo From Planner Al Brixius ii. Comments From City Attorney Nancy Beck iii. Proposed Ordinance With Amendments b. Potential Upcoming Items Memo 7. COMMUNICATIONS a. Draft Council Work Session Minutes — February 27, 2012 8. MISCELLANEOUS • a. April Calendar 9. ADJOURNMENT • 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION MINUTES MARCH 14, 2012 — 7:00 PM SPRING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake Minnetonka 1. CALL TO ORDER —Alternate Chair Sippel called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3 ROLL CALL — Mason, Sippel, Erickson, Ericson, Struck. Hoffman excused. Widmer excused. Administrator Tolsma, Clerk Lewin and Planner Brixius also in attendance. 4. ADOPT AGENDA — Mason made a motion and Ericson seconded to adopt the agenda. All votes ayes, motion carries. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from November 9, 2011- Erickson makes a motion and Ericson seconds to approve the minutes. All votes ayes, motion carries. b. Appointment of Chair and Alternate Chair— Erickson makes a motion to nominate • Hoffman as chair and Ericson seconds. All votes ayes, motion carries. Mason makes a motion to nominate Sippel for alternate chair and Erickson seconds. All votes ayes, motion carries. 6. CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Boulevard Landscaping Ordinance Amendment b. Comments From City Attorney Nancy Beck i. Proposed Ordinance With Amendments Memo From Planner Al Brixius — Brixius said at the January Council workshop there was discussion about boulevard landscape trees and their removal. He said the initial issue was with Certified Auto removing trees because of their expansion. There is further research being done but, it's believed no ordinance was in effect preventing the trees from being removed and, that they were not planted at the same time as the rest of the boulevard trees. Brixius refers to his memo dated February 23, 2012. Brixius reviewed the recommended changes to the ordinance and includes changes in a draft ordinance being proposed. Brixius is suggesting this be reviewed and brought back for public hearing in April. Ericson asked if a tree dies due to no fault of the landowner, who replaces it. Mason said sometimes some trees fail to thrive and he wonders what would happen in that case. Brixius explained those trees would perhaps be replaced with something more adaptable to the surroundings. Ericson asked who has the master plan and he thinks a copy should be at city hall. Struck asked about the Shoreline • beautification plan. Brixius said according to Goman, Norling has a box of plans that needs to be gone through. Mason said Norling has all the trees numbered so part of the research has been identified. Brixius said it is the hope that those records be located and brought to city hall. 1 Discussion held about problem areas for tree plantings. Erickson said salt put down by the County for plowing purposes can destroy the vegetation. Brixius said the intention of this proposed ordinance is to prevent trees from being purposely removed and identifying who is responsible for replacement. Ericson asked about budgeting for the trees and Tolsma said there is a minimal amount included in the budget. Mason wondered if that could be part of the overall beautification budget. Mason also wondered about tree removal from private property and whether a permit would be needed. Tolsma said it came up as a point of discussion but it was quickly dismissed as being too much city involvement. The feeling was property owners should be able to remove trees from their property if they want to. Mason said with sign permit applications or new businesses it gives the PC the opportunity to ask more questions about the intentions. Brixius said this cannot be made as part of the condition of approval. Struck thinks the supporting documentation needs to be located before it's referenced in an adopted ordinance. Sippel wants property owners along Shoreline Drive notified of the newly adopted ordinance, if it passes. He also wonders about enforcement. He thinks notification is necessary in order to be able to enforce noncompliance. Sippel also thinks the planting season referenced in the draft ordinance is too loose and thinks something more specific should be cited. He refers to 7f and thinks responsibility needs to be clarified as to who trims or define that the city is responsible or some different language. He doesn't want to discourage trimming dead branches from trees. Brixius said private trimming could be done by approval of the city council. Erickson wonders if those trees can be identified that are on the road right-of- way or on private property. Sippel agrees and without the prior documentation he hesitates to vote on something not identified. Sippel thinks this needs to be clearer. 7. Potential Upcoming Items Memo — Lewin said the city did receive an application for a CUP for • 4636 Shoreline Drive in the name of Fanaticraft so the process will begin. It should come to public hearing next month. 8. COMMUNICATIONS a. Draft Council Work Session Minutes — February 27, 2012 9.1 MISCELLANEOUS a. April Calendar b. Ericson said on Shoreline Drive the street lights are rusting and need to be replaced. He suggests the light poles be rebuilt on one side of Shoreline Drive and then the other side be done. Tolsma said this is in discussion phase but they're aware of the issues. Sippel wondered about checking out costs on more decorative light poles. Mason said energy efficiency lights are also being looked at. Ericson said that's the bulb, not the pole. Struck referred to March 5th council minutes regarding the vacation rentals. Tolsma said if this does come to law, cities are able to regulate in other ways. Sippel said parking can be regulated, etc. Mason said he wants to comment about The Mist and the expense to the City of Spring Park because of paying back the property taxes. Mason asked about past council minutes being included in the packet so the PC can be kept informed. John Ericson said he will be gone for April's meeting. 10.ADJOURNMENT — Erickson makes a motion and Sippel seconds to adjourn at 7:48 pm. All votes ayes, motion carries. Dan Tolsma, Administrator Wendy LewiQYity Clerk 2 3 MEMO ON LdkB/'vYNN�ON,�A DATE: April 6, 2012 TO: Planning Commissioners FROM: City Staff RE: April Planning Commission Meeting Commissioners: This month there is a lack of agenda items due to pending applications but no accepted submittals. Staff has decided to hold a PC work session at the regularly scheduled time and place. The plan is for this to be an informal workshop wherein the enclosed materials will be discussed as well as potential issues/concerns to work on over the upcoming months. The intent is for this workshop to last approximately one hour. Please review the enclosed documents for discussion. The document titled Zoning Decisions is the main document and we suggest you read through it in its entirety. The other attached documents are for more clarity on what's written in the Zoning Decisions document. We always look forward to meeting with you and think this could be a good refresher and learning event. We understand the personal value of not holding a meeting if there isn't anything to meet about. At the same time it's nice to get together for an hour and talk about what staff anticipates will soon be relevant. We will be bribing you to attend by serving light refreshments. /wl Enclosures CITY OF SPRING PARK SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION WORK SESSION April 11, 2012 7 P.M. - CITY HALL R Due to lack of agenda items the planning commission met to discuss topics of frequency and to put together a list of items for future review. Attendance: Hoffman, Mason, Struck, Erickson (Steve), Sippel. Ericson not in attendance. Staff: Planner Brixius, Administrator Tolsma, Clerk Lewin, Ex-Officio Widmer Brixius explained legislative action and quasi-judicial action and the difference between them. Variance — Brixius said within zoning districts there are specific requirements and a variance would be an exception to the existing code. He said what used to be has changed. He said reasonable use has changed to reasonable use within the context of the property and physical hardship has changed to practical difficulties. He said economic reasons are not accepted as a practical difficulty. He said the new rules give cities greater discretion. Brixius said variance applications go through the planning commission process and their recommendation goes to the council. The council is the deciding body and a resolution is drafted. Findings of fact are written to explain the decision making process and the legalities in making the decision. Hoffman asked about the example if someone wants to preserve a tree but by doing so has 46 extend into a setback. Brixius said it comes down to whether or not it alters the essential character the locality. Conditional Use — Brixius said within the districts there are "conditions." If the criteria of the conditions is met, the CUP is approved. He said CUP's run with the land but, the CUP expires in one year from issuance if it isn't exercised. Brixius went on to say areas with outdoor storage needs to be fenced and a list of the items to be stored. He said CUP's can be inspected for compliance as part of the condition. He said it's different from an interim use in that there is no sunset date. Sippel asked if it's determined a property owner isn't complying, can a CUP be revoked. Brixius said, if it's minor, it's better dealt with as an administrative fine than a revocation but, if they fail to comply it can be revoked. Sippel asked about an interim use when it's a tenant versus property owner. Brixius said the interim use expires if the business goes away. He said the city does not have an example of an interim use at the moment. He said the city also does have an option for temporary sales that is administratively issued, such as a fruit and vegetable stand. Non Conformities — Brixius said typically, redevelopment and eminent domain deals with nonconformities. He said legal nonconformities have recently been expanded to allow nonconforming structures to be replaced if a permit is granted within 180 days of a catastrophic incident. He said with eminent domain, cities cannot require correction as a condition of approval, it gives cities flexibility for modernization and it recognizes existing conditions are more favorable to property owners versus cities. reating a Record — Brixius said once a complete application is accepted, a city has 60 days rule for ponse. If the application is incomplete, a letter stating such is required to be mailed within 15 days Planning Commission Minutes, April 11, 2012 1 of receiving the application. The 60 day rule may also be extended for another 60 days but the applicant must be notified in writing. A further extension requires the applicants approval of the extension. Brixius said it's important there is good tracking of the application process. gsponxius said variances and CUP's are supposed to be recorded with the county and it's the sibility n of the property owner to record. Sippel asked if there is a checklist or guidelines for practical difficulties. Tolsma asked the planning commission and staff if they have future items they would like to work on. Council member Widmer suggested Coffee Cove cleanup. Mason suggests perhaps this can be held in conjunction with Earth Day. He also wonders about Clean the Lake group. Mason suggests more trash receptacles on the trail. Sippel asked about the drainage issue at the back of Thor Thompson park before the new basketball court goes in. Tolsma said the basketball court is probably going to be moved towards the playground. Sippel said the ponding needs to be tiled to drain towards the lift station pond. Mason asked about the playground equipment and if needs to be updated. Struck asked about the railroad ties that define the play area. Struck would like to see the playground/park continue to improve. She said it is a nice area and a lot of good things are being done to it. Tolsma said Williamson has raised the issue of having the planning commission more involved in the parks. Mason asked about the tennis courts and a backboard that was suggested a while ago. Sunset Drive — Sippel asked about the status of the Sunset Drive bike trail and sidewalk. Sippel wonders about taking land from affected property owners. Oason asked about motorcycle activity on Sunset Drive and police speeds on Shoreline Drive. Erickson asked about the survey stakes in front of city hall and it was explained they are marking stakes for future parking stalls for the trail. This is a joint effort between Three Rivers Park and the Watershed District. Tolsma said six stalls are slated for that area. 0,4� Je. kXI ` Dan Tolsma Wendy LewirvJ r Planning Commission Minutes, April 11, 2012 2 • Planning Commission meeting canceled : May, 2012 Lack of agenda items • • ar. CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION AGENDA JUNE 13, 2012 — 7:00 PM RING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake Minnetonka 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. ADOPT AGENDA 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from April 11, 2012 6. CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Boulevard Landscaping Ordinance Amendment b. Napa Auto Sign Application 7. COMMUNICATIONS a. Draft Council Meeting Minutes — June 4, 2012 b. City Council Work Session Minutes — May 29, 2012 c. City Council Meeting Minutes — May 21, 2012 d. City Council Meeting Minutes — May 7, 2012 8. MISCELLANEOUS a. June Calendar 9. ADJOURNMENT 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION MINUTES JUNE 13, 2012 — 7:00 PM SPRING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake 94innetonka 1. CALL TO ORDER — Chair Hoffman calls the meeting to order at 7 p.m. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - 3 ROLL CALL — Mason, Hoffman, Erickson, Ericson, Sippel, Struck. 4. ADOPT AGENDA — Hoffman proposes to move the Napa sign applicant up in the agenda. Ericson would like to add under Miscellaneous a discussion about Certified Auto. Mason makes a motion and Ericson seconds to adopt the agenda. All votes ayes, motion carries. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — Erickson makes a motion and Ericson seconds to approve the minutes. All votes ayes, motion carries. a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from April 11, 2012 6. CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Boulevard Landscaping Ordinance Amendment— Brixius said this has come about because of some removal of trees by a property owner. He said there are some changes needed in terms of the Shoreline beautification plan and requirements before trimming and cutting of trees. Brixius said a resolution approving the tree inventory and the original plans and maintenance component was approved by the council so this is in place. Sippel asked if there was a plan and Brixius explained the inventory is the plan. Brixius said all trees are documented with • tags. His staff followed up with confirming an aerial inventory. Brixius said this is a discussion item and if the PC is comfortable with this it will move to public hearing. Sippel asked about the maintenance plan and Brixius said it's spelled out in his memo dated April 25, 2012. Sippel said in the proposed ordinance, compared to the memo there is a disagreement between the two as far as the maintenance agreement goes. Brixius said he'll amend his memo including an exception for the beautification project. Ericson asked if the city has any authority when the property owner wants something else put up. Brixius said it's likely that the city has the authority for this as part of the beautification plan. Sippel said he would like that stated more clearly in the ordinance. Whether it's maintenance or replacement. Brixius said he can put language in under 7 a. Hoffman has a question on Exhibit C and wonders if there is a summary about good trees and poor trees. Hoffman is curious about how many distressed trees there are. Brixius said not a lot but there are a few. Sippel wonders about tightening up the language on 7 b. and wonders what "appropriate planting season" means. He wonders if that can be more specific. Sippel is concerned with 7 f. regarding tree trimming. He wondered if it should say something about below a certain height they can trim but once it approaches the canopy, then it's the city's. Brixius agreed that maybe it can be said `anything from the ground up to eight feet can be trimmed'. He said he can incorporate something like that in the draft ordinance. Mason wonders about who bears the replacement cost if a property owner wants to replace a tree and thinks that should be defined. b. Napa Auto Sign Application — Brixius explained this application has been in conjunction with the building owner. He said the proposed sign is a brick based monument sign with multiple • tenant identification. It is intended to be located at the west end of the building, it's 64 square feet, brick based and aluminum casting. Brixius said the sign meets the proper requirements and the sign will be internally illuminated. He said the setbacks are within the applicant's 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 property and does not fall in the 30 foot site triangles. Brixius said the recommendation is for approval with consideration of additional landscaping at the base. Mason asked if it faces east/west and applicant confirms. Applicant stated this was a revision after the initial application. Erickson asked if this sign will be interchangeable if a tenant changes and • applicant confirms but does say Napa Auto owns the sign. Mason asked about some landscaping and the applicant said it could be a consideration but it would have to be something low. Mason clarifies the location. Sippel said if something can be planted that is low and doesn't block the signage that would be good but it shouldn't be a condition of approval. Sippel makes a motion to adopt the sign and Hoffman seconds. All votes ayes, motion carries. c. COMMUNICATIONS a. Draft Council Meeting Minutes — June 4, 2012 b. City Council Work Session Minutes — May 29, 2012 c. City Council Meeting Minutes — May 21, 2012 d. City Council Meeting Minutes — May 7, 2012 d. MISCELLANEOUS a. June Calendar • Ericson said it is his understanding that there have been discussions with Certified Auto to landscape the west end of his property. Brixius said the council has given him permission to work towards a landscape plan along with Norling. Ericson wonders what happens if the owner balks at this. Brixius said working cooperatively to use this as a beautification area, he feels this solution will provide some assistance to the business owner and allow some relief for the residential property owners. Ericson wonders how long this is going to take. Brixius said he can report back in one month with a schedule and a solution. Mason asked who owns the retention pond and Brixius confirmed Certified Auto is the owner of that property. Brixius said he will have something to report for next month. • • Sippel asked about the mortgage sign in front of the Yacht Club and said it's illegal. • Mason asked about the Tonka Grille sign and Lewin said she'd check on it. Mason asked about the Gillet building at 4636 Shoreline Drive and wondered where that was at. Brixius said a code enforcement letter is going out to the property owner in the next day or two. Mason asked about the sandwich sign advertising carpet cleaning and he said there's no business there that cleans carpets. • Erickson asked about previous minutes where it mentioned Bud Groth's property. Tolsma said a contractor with Presbyterian Homes is now stating they will not be responsible for the clean- up so there might be a draw from the escrow account to cover costs. Erickson wondered if Groth had a valid concern. Tolsma said Groth has dropped his threats about a lawsuit. He said there is still an established area of clean-up and that is what the city will press to have finished. • Mason said he would appreciate a one-page synopsis about what is going on with the city. Sippel thinks what goes to the council would be good. • Struck said she will be gone for August meeting. 8. ADJOURNMENT— Sippel makes a motion and Ericson seconds to adjourn the meeting at 7:52 p.m. All votes ayes, motion carries. Dan Tolsma, Administrator 0 Wend ewin, City e 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION AGENDA JULY 11 , 2012 — 7:00 PM SPRING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake Minnetonka 1 CALL TO ORDER 2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3 ROLL CALL 4 ADOPT AGENDA 5 APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from June 13, 2012 6 CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Shoreline Boulevard Landscaping Ordinance i. Open Public Hearing ii. Comments iii. Close Public Hearing iv. Recommendation to Council b. Certified Auto Update 7 COMMUNICATIONS a. City Council Minutes — June 18, 2012 b. Work Session Minutes — June 25, 2012 c. Draft City Council Minutes — July 2, 2012 8 MISCELLANEOUS a. August Calendar b. Dan's Dispatch from June 29tn 9. ADJOURNMENT • 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 ` CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION MINUTES JULY 11 , 2012 — 7.00 PM SPRING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake 911 inneton a 1. CALL TO ORDER — Chair Hoffman called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. 2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - 3. ROLL CALL — Mason, Sippel, Ericson, Hoffman, Erickson and Struck excused. 4 ADOPT AGENDA — Sippel makes a motion and Mason seconded to adopt the agenda. Ericson wants to add under Misc an item about trail signs. All votes ayes, motion carries. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — Ericson makes a motion and Mason seconds to approve the minutes. All votes ayes, motion carries. a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from June 13, 2012 6. CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Shoreline Boulevard Landscaping Ordinance — Brixius said on June 13 meeting there were some suggested changes. There wasn't a formal plan but a street beautification plan was adopted. Brixius said it is now a formal plan of the city. He said there is a landscape provision and it pertains to maintenance requirements. Ericson asked if the landscape plan could be modified if a new business with a new curb cut was added. Brixius confirmed. Sippel asked if there are trees as small as eight feet. Brixius said • there are some that have failed to thrive since they've been planted. Mason asked if tagged trees are part of the beautification plan and Brixius stated they were. i. Open Public Hearing — Hoffman opens the hearing at 7:10 p.m. No one in attendance and nothing written received. ii. Comments iii. Close Public Hearing — Hoffman closes the meeting at 7:11. Sippel makes a motion and Ericson seconds to close the public hearing. All votes ayes, motion carries. iv. Recommendation to Council — Ericson makes a motion and Sippel seconds to recommend to the council the Shoreline Boulevard Landscape Ordinance. Mason suggests the boulevard property owners be notified so they are informed and there are no future problems. Hoffman wondered if they should be notified or a copy sent to them. Mason said whatever works but they should be notified. Tolsma said it can be done. Mason said every effort should be made to maintain the established arbor of trees. All votes ayes, motion carries. b. Certified Auto Update — Brixius said the city has a beatification project to improve the appearance along Shoreline Drive. He said funds have been identified to assist Certified Auto with some plantings to be placed on the west side of the retention pond. He said the intent is to improve the esthetics and plants would be low maintenance and hardy to endure the weather and soil content. It also must be able to endure snow storage. Brixius said the owner is receptive to the landscape suggestions. Brixius • displayed a landscape plan and suggested plantings. Brixius said the next step is to present this plan to the property owner. Brixius said the only concern he foresees is vegetation that grows too high. He said an agreement will be drafted for the property 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 owner's signature. Ericson asked about the maintenance. Brixius said as part of the street program the city has a maintenance program. Sippel asked if this will be added to the newly adopted plan and Brixius confirmed. Sippel asked about the previous landscape plan for rebuilding after his redevelopment. Brixius said there was a plan but the plants did not survive and they weren't replaced. Mason asked about costs to the property owner and Brixius said the city is going to respond to this. Hoffman asked about snow storage and is concerned about plowing and pushing snow into that area. Brixius said that might be good to be added to the letter of understanding. Mason asked about the basin and Brixius said the basin will be kept open . Sippel asked if there is something that drains into or out of the basin and Brixius said he believes it's for runoff. Sippel is concerned about land-locking the basin and rotting vegetation building up around the perimeter and he suggests there be a drain. Mason asked if this will be contoured or sculpted. Brixius said no, it's going to be plantings. Mason asked about a provision if there is damage to the plantings who replaces it. Brixius said in the letter of understanding that will be drafted, this will be explained. Sippel said what's key is this be tied to the Shoreline Beautification plan. 7. COMMUNICATIONS a. City Council Minutes — June 18, 2012 b. Work Session Minutes — June 25, 2012 c. Draft City Council Minutes — July 2, 2012 8. MISCELLANEOUS a. August Calendar b. Dan's Dispatch from June 29th — Mason said thanks for the information. Widmer said Coffee Cove had a lot of debris removed according to what was on the barge. She said she spoke with a neighboring property owner and they are pleased. Ericson wondered about the Cummings generator parked outside Lord Fletcher's restaurant. Ericson wants to talk about signs on the trail. He said he was at the Minnetonka Drive-in and parallel with the trail there is a wood fence and there are two signs displayed. He said one has Pedal Wild and the other is Mound Hardware. Widmer wondered about the recent banners on the light poles that advertise businesses that are not in Spring Park. Brixius said he doesn't think there is regulation of banners that are sponsored by businesses. 9. ADJOURNMENT — Ericson makes a motion and Mason seconded to adjourn the meeting at 7:37 p.m. All votes ayes, motion carries. Dan Tolsma, Administrator 0-4� kA , Wendy Lewi ity Clerk 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 • Planning Commission meeting canceled : August, 2012 Lack of agenda items • • � CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION AGENDA SEPTEMBER 12, 2012 — 7:00 PM SPRING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake Minnetonka NOTE: PLEASE ASSEMBLE FOR THE MEETING AT THOR THOMPSON PARK - PLAYGROUND AREA - 7 PM (WEATHER PERMITTING) 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3 ROLL CALL 41 ADOPT AGENDA 5 APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from July 2012 • 6 CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS - Memo to Commissioners 7; COMMUNICATIONS a. City Council Minutes — July 16th, August 6th, August 20th b. Work Session Minutes — July 23rd and August 27th c. Draft City Council Minutes — September 4th, 2012 8. MISCELLANEOUS a. September and October Calendar 9. ADJOURNMENT • 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 1 CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION MINUTES SEPTEMBER 12, 2012 — 7:00 PM SPRING PARK rll-v uol SPRING PARK On Lake Minnetonka NOTE: PLEASE ASSEMBLE FOR THE MEETING AT THOR THOMPSON PARK - PLAYGROUND AREA - 7 PM (WEATHER PERMITTING) Attendance: Hoffman, Erickson, Ericson, Sippel, Mason, Struck excused, City Planner Brixius, Clerk Lewin, Administrator Tolsma, Council Widmer. Commissioners and staff were assembled at the Thor Thompson playground equipment. Items discussed: • Some repairs need to be made to existing equipment. Clamp couplings on the individual swings move and should be stationary. What moves should be the swing hangers. • Plastic spacers/separators between the wood curved climbing apparatus need to be repaired. Some of the spacers are gone and the wood sections slide together. • • Maybe the focus of the park doesn't always have to be on just kids. •' A walking path surrounding the perimeter of the park might be nice for adult fitness. • ' Maybe a path that directs park users from Sunset Drive to the park. • Commissioners didn't realize any immediate safety concerns between the new BB court and the timbers edging the playground area. They felt the timbers could be removed and the playground area made smaller or, the ground could be graded to form a slope even with the top of the timbers. • Commissioners feel there is a lot of life left in the playground equipment and it maybe can be added to instead of replacing. Baseball Field: • Agree that a path should be made from the pitcher's mound to home plate as it is proving difficult to grow grass in that area. Ag-lime should be installed. • Regarding shading the bleachers, it's discussed that shade trees probably won't work due to the established drain fields and the overhead lines. • Some suggested building shade canopies over the bleachers. • Others felt providing shade shouldn't be a priority - it's part of baseball and spectators can always set up their own chairs and umbrellas for shade. • Suggested that a perimeter of rock should be installed along the cement apron that supports the back fence behind the catcher. There are a couple of low spots that remain muddy and it's probably better to just put rock there instead of trying to grow grass. • Some thoughts given to a dynamic scoreboard and using some of the funds that were given to • the park by Mrs. Thompson ($1,000) in memory of her husband. Grassy Area of Park: 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 2 • Some think a covered picnic pavilion might be a nice addition in the area of the old BB court. It might encourage families or groups to use the park more. Tennis Courts: • Lighting is discussed for the tennis courts. Could be metered with users paying for the lighting. • Lighting the BB court is also discussed. • Decided there is not enough use to warrant it and don't want to upset the neighboring properties. Sippel said there is still concern about the low-lying area on the south side of the park that backs up to the residential properties. He said it does flood in the spring and remains wet. This should be considered when discussing changes to that particular area as some minor correction such as drain tile leading to the holding pond will be needed. It is suggested to think of items that could be done now and things that could be built upon in the future. Mason suggests when thinking about upgrading the playground equipment, bright colors should be chosen. He thinks the playground equipment located at the park in Navarre is a good example. Wilkes Park: Some think it's a waste. It's poorly located, no one knows about it, it's not very accessible, think it might be a good idea to just sell it and focus energies on Thor. Budget: Tolsma explained there could be a combination of funds from line items in the budget and the PIR fund. He said there has been $5,000 budgeted for 2012 and another $2,000 for new equipment. It is gested to do some of the smaller things with the line item budget and the bigger items from the kg fund. Additional comments from Commissioner Struck in absentia.. She has found Moundite George Linkert's blog at http://www.aplaceinmound.com/ particularly interesting as it fosters discussions about what makes a city a place that is people friendly. She also referred to the website at Linkedln Siemens Sustainable Cities group to see some global discussions on cities. Struck also wonders about the parking area on the west end of Northern Avenue, south side of the road across from the LMCC. She thinks it's not too attractive and doesn't look safe. She thinks it needs to be maintained better and beautified in some way although she acknowledges it may be Hennepin County HCRRA property. 11 )"- ,I- (P �e. Wendy Lewiqyity Clerk Dan Tolsma, Administrator 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 • Planning Commission meeting canceled : October, 2012 Lack of agenda items • • oi6 CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION AGENDA NOVEMBER 14, 2012 — 7:00 PM SPRING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake 914innetonka 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3 ROLL CALL 4 ADOPT AGENDA 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from July 11, 2012 b. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from September 12, 2012 6 CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Sign Permit Application: Integrity Communications Consultants, Inc. b. Sign Permit Application: Spring Park Pharmacy • 7 COMMUNICATIONS a. City Council Minutes — October 1st b. City Council Minutes — October 15tn c. Work Session Minutes — October 22na 8. MISCELLANEOUS 9. ADJOURNMENT • 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION MINUTES NOVEMBER 14, 2012 — 7:00 PM SPRING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake Minnetonka 1. CALL TO ORDER- Hoffman called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL - Mason, Struck, Sippel, Erickson, Hoffman, ex-officio Widmer. 4. ADOPT AGENDA- Erickson makes a motion and Mason seconds to adopt the agenda. Hoffman said there will be an addition of one item under miscellaneous regarding the number of commissioners to serve. All votes ayes, motion carries. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from July 11, 2012 b. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from September 12, 2012 Erickson said in the September minutes there was mention about the suggestion of selling Wilkes Park and he wants to make it known that he is against that and Struck agrees with Erickson. Hoffman asked about the gravel that was added between the pitcher's mound and home base and fdered if some of the low areas would be filled as well. Tolsma said gravel will be added around e'dugouts where there is puddling. Struck said she took photos of the park and she would be happy to e-mail those to the staff. Struck also asked about street light replacement schedule and wondered where it was taking place. Tolsma said the immediate scope is along Shoreline Drive. He said in the future they will look at other locations. He said the immediate concern is the failure of two street lights on Shoreline Drive. Struck said she noticed dark spots between the street lights on her drive over tonight. Tolsma said other streets have not been researched for replacement yet. Sippel makes a motion and Mason seconds to approve the minutes. All votes ayes, motion carries. 6. CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Sign Permit Application: Integrity Communications Consultants, Inc. - Renee McFadden with Designer Outlook is present and she explains the proposed lettering matches the other lettering material on this multi-use building. Hoffman said he likes the mock-up provided in the packet and thinks it looks very nice. Sippel agreed that the lettering and logo is in keeping with the theme of the other lettering. Erickson makes a motion to approve and Struck seconds. All votes ayes, motion carries. b. Sign Permit Application: Spring Park Pharmacy- Hoffman said the planner had asked for foot candle measurements and they were provided by the applicant and are in front of the commissioners tonight. Sippel asked if it's going to say pharmacy or Spring Park pharmacy. Tolsma said they are a branch of Watertown pharmacy and they are not going to be specific. Hoffman said it will be a nice addition and it will be great for the clinic. He said it's nice that it ties in with the City's comprehensive plan about that area being potentially more health-care related. Sippel makes a motion and Struck seconds to approve the sign. All votes ayes, motion carries. 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 2 7. COMMUNICATIONS a. City Council Minutes — October 1 st b. City Council Minutes — October 15tn c. Work Session Minutes — October 22nd Hoffman refers to the minutes about the council's increase and asked what the increase was and Tolsma said it equated to $50 per month for each council person. It was noted that the last raise was in 1998. 8. MISCELLANEOUS — Tolsma said it's been difficult to fill the vacant seat of the planning commission since Neve resigned. Now with the untimely death of John Ericson, it's been discussed about reducing the PC to a five seat commission versus a seven seat commission. Staff is looking for feedback to coincide with the start of the New Year. Erickson asked if they can stipulate a minimum and a maximum. Tolsma said he's guessing that it would have to be a specific number. Sippel said he has always wondered why there are more commissioners than council members. Struck said seven has already seemed like a lot but going to five then the concern is what if someone is absent or quits. Struck said it takes a while to bring new commissioners up to speed. She thinks six might be a good number. Tolsma said the state recommendation is an odd number for tie-break purposes. Hoffman said the commission has been fortunate with good attendance and dedicated commissioners. Hoffman makes a motion to recommend to the council to change the commission from seven to five members. Sippel seconds. All votes ayes, motion carries. Hoffman thinks five represents the city quite well. Erickson wonders if there is a tie vote does could the council ex-officio have vote power in that case. Tolsma said he'd have to look at the by-laws. Hoffman said if there is something on the agenda and a commissioner is going to be absent they could always cast their vote by proxy or conference call. Hoffman suggests the commissioners come to the next meeting with some ideas, thoughts and/or goals about what they would like to accomplish for the coming year. Struck asked about the park study and where that lies. Hoffman said that will be coming this spring. Sippel said there is a thick coating of salt that was dumped on Mapleton after the recent snow event and he said the next rain with run-off will run it all down the storm sewer. He thinks it should be swept or cleaned up before that happens. Mason said they put up the new entrance signs. He said they look nice. He said the letters are smaller than the old sign and he thinks it takes a while to get used to that. Widmer commented on the reverse side of the sign and said the whiteness looks a little odd or stark. Mason wishes they could have used the old signs because they were really nice and made out of driftwood and it looked like it went with the lake area. Widmer said the rock base looks really nice and there are some spruce tips put in there now but she hopes for some additional color. 9. ADJOURNMENT — Erickson makes a motion and Sippel seconds to adjourn the meeting at 7:29 p.m. All votes ayes, motion carries. E-4-� Wendy Lewi City Clerk Dan Tolsma, Administrator 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION AGENDA DECEMBER 12, 2012 — 7:00 PM SPRING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake Minnetonka 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. ADOPT AGENDA 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from November 14, 2012 6. CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Variance Application b. Bell Mortgage Sign Application c. Fantastic Sams Sign Application • 7. COMMUNICATIONS a. City Council Minutes — November 5, 2012 b. City Council Minutes — November 19, 2012 c. Work Session Minutes — November 26, 2012 d. City Council Minutes (Draft)— December 3, 2012 e. Planning Commission Attendance YTD Report 8. MISCELLANEOUS 9. ADJOURNMENT • 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK,MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 .i^ CITY OF SPRING PARK PLANNING COMMISION MINUTES DECEMBER 12, 2012 — 7.00 PM SPRING PARK SPRING PARK CITY HALL On Lake 914 innetonka Attendance: Commissioners, Administrator Tolsma, Clerk Lewin, Planner Brixius, Ex-officio Widmer. No one attending for the public hearing. 1. CALL TO ORDER - Chair Hoffman called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL - Mason, Struck, Sippel, Erickson, Hoffman 4. ADOPT AGENDA - Erickson makes a motion and Sippel seconds to adopt the agenda. Hoffman states the public hearing notice says 7:30 p.m. so the sign applications will be moved in front of the public hearing to accommodate the start time. All votes ayes, motion carries. 5, APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes from November 14, 2012 - Sippel makes a • motion and Mason seconds to approve the minutes. All votes ayes, motion carries. 6 CONSIDERATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS Lewin explained she received a phone call from a representative of the Tonka Ventures building stating they wanted to change the blue neon lighting strip at the top of the tower. The caller said the neon was problematic and high maintenance. He said they were looking to change to LED and would potentially change the color from blue to red. Lewin said she told the caller they would check if there were ordinances governing this and get back to the caller. Lewin said she referred this to the city planner after not finding anything that dictates to this request. Brixius said the existing lighting is considered legal non-conforming and there is a change proposed in the non conforming condition being it neon to LED lighting. Erickson wondered about the candle watt power restrictions and Brixius said it's within the allowed lighting requirements. Struck asked if the lighting was decorative and it's decided that's what it is. Sippel likes the landmark lighting. Brixius said LED is fine and it is ribbon styled and doesn't exceed allowable limits. Mason said for the record he likes the blue as that is the city's color scheme. Hoffman disagrees with dictating the color choice and Sippel agrees. Hoffman makes a motion to approve the verbal application for sign change but does not want a color preference specified. Discussion: Struck wonders what if in the future someone wanted to have multiple colors or running strips of light or flashing lights. Brixius said it would have to follow the dynamic sign ruling which has rules in place for flashing lights. All votes • ayes, motion carries. 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 2 Sippel said he and Hoffman have wondered about the continued review of permanent sign permit applications when they are considered fully conforming and whether is it necessary to go in front of the PC. Brixius said in other communities it's typically a standard issue over the . counter. Hoffman makes a motion to recommend to the council that if signs are conforming, staff could make the approval. Erickson seconds. Sippel wants to clarify staff and wonders if that includes the planner. It's agreed that the planner should review this permit application but would not have to generate a detailed report. Widmer agreed that's the way it used to be and if it was clear-cut it was just issued. Widmer thought the change may have stemmed from wanting the PC being more involved and have input but she agrees with Sippel that it doesn't seem necessary. Widmer is concerned about the sign that is being moved in from elsewhere. Sippel said he likes seeing the applications and knowing whose coming into town but doesn't need the report from Brixius. Erickson said it's a lot of paper and he agrees it doesn't seem necessary to generate all the paper waste for obvious legally conforming and acceptable signage. All votes ayes, motion carries. Hoffman asks that Widmer presents this to the council. a. Variance Application - Hoffman opens the public hearing at 7:30 p.m. Brixius said tonight there is a public hearing for a variance application for Anne Marie Borne at 2473 Black Lake Road. (Brixius refers to various documents displayed for viewing.) Brixius points to a survey performed of the property showing the existing house, retaining walls and a tree. He explains the applicant has contacted the city several times wondering if her plans would be doable. He said they have met at the site. Brixius said at the site meeting the applicant indicated she would like to enclose her outdoor stairs as it's her primary entrance. He said the applicant is retirement age and she would like to stay in her home. She would like to enclose the stairway and leave an option for an elevator at a later date. • Brixius said they were given a tour of the inside of the applicant's home. He said the home is considered to be legal non-conforming. Brixius said right now there is about 54" from the street to the house. He said the street line is illustrated on the survey and the changes would bring it to within three feet 8 inches. He said the house was built in 1930 and a building expansion had been added since that time. He said the applicant now wishes to enclose and rebuild the stairwell and add two bedrooms above the existing garage. He said further complications are a utility pole and a fire hydrant. He said the dash lines illustrate the retaining walls. Brixius said at the site meeting concern was expressed about future snow storage. Brixius said the applicant submitted a letter explaining her reasoning about remaining the home. Brixius said state statute stipulates if this is a reasonable use. He said the criteria is practical difficulties, not hardship. Brixius referred to the City's comprehensive plan and said residential goals are for providing for lifestyle changes and to maintain single family homes. He said the plan encourages investment in homes. He said in that respect, he believes the applicant's plans address this. Brixius said with this being a 1930's home and the primary access being on the second floor, this is a reasonable request and consistent with the comprehensive plan. He said the property is zoned R-1 and it meets lot area and lot width but the front yard setback is not compliant but complies with the lake setback. Brixius said practical difficulties are the property proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner and R-1 is a permitted residential use. Brixius said the plight is unique and not created by the property owner as is illustrated on the aerial map. Brixius said if the variance is granted, site plans would have to be presented for typical construction stages. Sippel asked about existing easements and infrastructure to the 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 3 applicant's residence. Brixius said there are no easements on the property that they are aware of. Brixius said these materials were sent to the Fire Department for their review. The review stated the hydrant was not placed in a compromising area and would be accessible for fire • access. Brixius said Xcel energy commented about the power pole and had some requests but is not opposed to the request. Brixius said snow storage should be a consideration. Brixius said when calculating green space it's slightly below the 30% hardcover requirement. Brixius said based on the review of the application they believe the applicant's request is consistent with the comprehensive plan, with zoning and has a unique lot configuration. He doesn't believe the variance with this exception is out of character. He said they don't believe the variance will negatively impact the surroundings. He also said this is not automatically precedent setting in nature. He said each circumstance is evaluated on individual merits. Brixius said he recommends requesting building permit construction drawings, excavation plans and proposed methods for protecting the water main and power pole. He said the city would inspect for proper excavation techniques. Sippel asked where the primary entrance to the residence is now. Brixius said the primary entrance enters up the exposed staircase into a low ceiling entry. Struck is curious about the condition of the home. Brixius said the new addition interior for the second floor is contemporary and modern in design. Struck is interested in how the home is maintained and feels a well maintained home is an indicator as to how it will continue to be maintained. Brixius explained the applicant is interested in a future elevator so space is being accommodated for that. Struck asked about the current flat roof above the garage and wonders if runoff from the new roof should require guttering to direct runoff to a pervious place. Struck also asked about other requests. Lewin explained there were a couple of phone calls, more curiosity related as • to what is being proposed. Sippel said he's nervous about granting any variances on that street but he realizes it's an improvement to what is currently there. Hoffman said from a health safety and welfare standpoint there would better access to the hydrant. Widmer asked about a potential fire or a new owner who wants to start over on a new build. She wonders if they could build off the terms that are being established tonight. Brixius said there is an 80 foot setback from the lake and any new build would likely build closer to the lake. Widmer wonders about building on the existing footprint if they choose to rebuild but Sippel thinks it's such an odd footprint that the likelihood of rebuilding on that footprint would be minimal if non existent. Erickson said what bothers him is moving closer to the road than what is already existing but it does make the utility access better. Hoffman said on item number four of the recommendations, he wonders about inserting language about no hardcover in that area to accommodate for runoff. Hoffman said if there is no further discussion he will close the public hearing. Hoffman closes the public hearing at 8:14 p.m. Brixius asked if the motion can agree with the findings of the planner's report. He said he wants to avoid precedent and he wants to endorse the findings. He also is looking for Sippel's comments about allowing for better access to utilities along with five recommendations outlined in the planner's report. Hoffman makes the motion to recommend to the council approval of the variance application for 2473 Black Lake Road agreeing with the findings of the planner's report. Sippel seconds. Struck wonders if the gutter systems needs to be addressed. Brixius said he will insert language as such. Roll • call vote — Mason, yes; Struck, yes; Sippel, yes; Erickson, yes; and Hoffman, yes. Motion carries. Hoffman said, for the record, the commission wants it noted that they recognize the challenges of Black Lake Road. 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 4 b. Bell Mortgage Sign Application - Brixius explained this sign request is merely a change of the original lettering already in place. He said a differently-worded tag line is being requested beneath the original Bell Mortgage sign. Erickson makes a motion and Sippel seconds to approve the sign request. All votes in favor, motion carries. C. Fantastic Sam's Sign Application - Brixius reads off the specifics of the sign. Sippel asked if they will be moving this sign from a different location because he remembers reading that somewhere. Brixius said this sign is from a different location that has since closed. Mason moves to approve and Erickson seconds. All votes in favor, motion carries. 7. COMMUNICATIONS a. City Council Minutes — November 5, 2012 b. City Council Minutes — November 19, 2012 c. Work Session Minutes — November 26, 2012 d. City Council Minutes (Draft) — December 3, 2012 e. Planning Commission Attendance YTD Report It's recognized that this is Widmer's last planning commission meeting after 14 years on the city council. Widmer said prior to her 14 years Carl Widmer, her husband, was on the council. She said he also did a stint on the planning commission as well. 8. MISCELLANEOUS - Hoffman said at the November meeting he requested the commissioners think of agenda items they would like to see addressed in 2013. �• Struck said she thinks the parks discussion needs to be continued. She said moving forward with the park plan is necessary. She said there were issues, repairs and improvements that were identified and she thinks it should not get dropped. She suggests repairs be made now or as soon as they can be. • Struck said she would like to see outside storage addressed. She said she thinks the quantity should be specified. She said it's difficult when there are rental properties and it becomes a dumping or storage ground for items no longer in use. She understands a person should be allowed to do what they want on their property but other people look at it as well and it should be a consideration. • Struck said she wants to discuss the parking area on the west end of Northern Avenue. She said there are enough challenges on her street. She said there is grass and black top and rocks and she wonders what this area really is. She said if it's not SP's property, maybe the city could make it look better. She thinks the signage is confusing and she thinks it's dangerous. Struck said considering beautification on the trail — more trees — even though it's not SP's. • Hoffman asked if the PC is also the Parks Commission. Tolsma said yes and to be added to the park plan could be concerns about Emerald Ash Borer. He said they are treating the trees right now but the threat is real and the ash trees are going to be devastated. He would look for some planning to be put in place for this future problem. Widmer wonders about regulating the sale of firewood in Spring Park. Sippel said it's difficult to regulate. Mason thinks it has to do with education and once the word is out, people understand it. • Mason said solar and wind energy is coming and he thinks standards need to be set for this. Struck wondered about geothermal being allowed. 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160 5 Tolsma said for the commissioners information, the council approved the reduction of the planning commission from seven to five. •8. ADJOURNMENT - Sippel makes a motion and Mason seconds to adjourn at 8:27 p.m. All votes ayes, motion carries. h Wendyiewin, City Clerk Dan Tolsma, Administrator • • 4349 WARREN AVENUE, SPRING PARK, MINNESOTA 55384-9711 (952)471-9051 FAX(952)471-9160