HomeMy WebLinkAboutPlanning Commission - 08/08/2016
AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PLANNING COMMISSION
Monday, August 8, 2016, 7:00 P.M.
PLANNING COMMISSION
MEMBERS:
John Kirk, Jon Stoltz, Charles Weber, Travis Wuttke, Ann
Higgins, Andrew Pieper, Ed Farr, Mark Freiberg, Tom Poul
STAFF MEMBERS: Julie Klima, City Planner; Rod Rue, City Engineer;
Matt Bourne, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources
I. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE -- ROLL CALL
II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
III. MINUTES
A. Approval of the Minutes for the July 11, 2016 meeting
IV. INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS
V. PUBLIC MEETINGS
VI. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. CEDAR RIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Location: 8905 Braxton Drive
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 23.19 acres
• Variance to exceed the 30 foot maximum height requirement for the existing structure.
B. OAK POINT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Location: 13400 Staring Lake Parkway
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 23.05 acres
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements.
C. EDEN LAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Location: 12000 Anderson Lakes Parkway
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 23.46 acres
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements.
D. FOREST HILLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Location: 13708 Holly Lane
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 28.31 acres
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements.
E. HENNEPIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE
13100 College View Drive
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 104.38 acres
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements.
VII. PLANNERS’ REPORT
VIII. MEMBERS’ REPORTS
IX. CONTINUING BUSINESS
X. NEW BUSINESS
XI. ADJOURNMENT
ANNOTATED AGENDA
TO: Planning Commission Members
FROM: Julie Klima, City Planner
RE: Planning Commission Meeting for Monday, August 8, 2016
___________________________________________________________________________________________
MONDAY, August 8, 2016 7:00 PM, COUNCIL CHAMBERS
I. CALL THE MEETING TO ORDER
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE- ROLL CALL
III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: Move to approve the agenda.
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION: Move to approve the Planning Commission minutes:
A. PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD MONDAY, July 11, 2016
V. INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS
VI. PUBLIC MEETINGS
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. CEDAR RIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Location: 8905 Braxton Drive
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 23.19 acres
• Variance to exceed the 30 foot maximum height requirement for the existing
structure.
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter
regarding the City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the
proposed rezoning and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance
with the City Code and with the Comprehensive Plan.
Due to revisions to the City Code in 2010, schools unintentionally became a non-
conforming use. Staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding schools as a
permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from the Rural
District to the Public District.
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to
review that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting. The Commission is asked
ANNOTATED AGENDA
August 8, 2016
Page 2
to review a request to rezone the property from Rural district to Public district. The
Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use.
Staff is also recommending the Planning Commission approve a variance for the existing
conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there
are no site plans to review. Existing conditions that require attention due to the proposed
zoning change include the existing height of the building. The recommended variance
would apply only to the existing conditions.
Site Specific variance requests:
The Rural district allows a building height of 40 feet, so at the time of construction, the
height of the building was compliant with City Code. The Public district has a maximum
building height of 30 feet, so staff is recommending approval of a variance to allow the
existing condition in order for the site to maintain its conforming status.
It appears that the tallest portion of the building (at the northwest corner) is approximately
37 ft. tall or greater. City Code currently allows a maximum height of 30 ft. for the main
structures in the Public District. No setback variances are necessary for this site.
Staff recommends approval.
MOTION 1: Move to close the public hearing.
MOTION 1: Move to recommend approval of the Zoning District Change
from Rural to Public on 23.19 acres and Final Order 2016-06 based on the
information included in the staff report dated August 3, 2016.
B. OAK POINT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Location: 13400 Staring Lake Parkway
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 23.05 acres
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter
regarding the City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the
proposed rezoning and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance
with the City Code and with the Comprehensive Plan.
Due to revisions to the City Code in 2010, schools unintentionally became a non-
conforming use. Staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding schools as a
permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from the Rural
District to the Public District.
ANNOTATED AGENDA
August 8, 2016
Page 3
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to
review that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting. The Commission is asked
to review a request to rezone the property from Rural district to Public district. The
Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use.
Staff is also recommending the Planning Commission approve a variance for the existing
conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there
are no site plans to review. The recommended variance would apply only to the existing
conditions.
Site Specific variance requests:
This site will require a setback variance for the existing parking lot. It appears that the
closest portion of the parking lot (at the northwest corner) has an approximate setback of
46 ft. along the west/front lot line (along Staring Lake Parkway) and approximately 48 ft.
along the north/front lot line (along Anderson Lakes Parkway). All other existing parking
lot and building setbacks meet the requirements of the City Code. City Code currently
requires that parking lots meet the required front yard setback. The front yard setback in the
Public District is 50 ft.
Staff recommends approval.
MOTION 1: Move to close the public hearing.
MOTION 1: Move to recommend approval of the Zoning District Change
from Rural to Public on 23.05 acres and Final Order 2016-07 based on the
information included in the staff report dated August 3, 2016.
C. EDEN LAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Location: 12000 Anderson Lakes Parkway
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 23.46 acres
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter
regarding the City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the
proposed rezoning and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance
with the City Code and with the Comprehensive Plan.
Due to revisions to the City Code in 2010, schools unintentionally became a non-
conforming use. Staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding schools as a
permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from the Rural
District to the Public District.
ANNOTATED AGENDA
August 8, 2016
Page 4
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to
review that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting. The Commission is asked
to review a request to rezone the property from Rural district to Public district. The
Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use.
Staff is also recommending the Planning Commission approve a variance for the existing
conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there
are no site plans to review. Existing conditions that require attention due to the proposed
zoning change include the existing height of the building. The recommended variance
would apply only to the existing conditions.
Site Specific variance requests:
The Rural district allows a building height of 40 feet, so at the time of construction, the
height of the building was compliant with City Code. The Public district has a maximum
building height of 30 feet, so staff is recommending approval of a variance to allow the
existing condition in order for the site to maintain its conforming status.
It appears that the tallest portion of the existing building (at the northwest corner) is
approximately 36 feet or greater. City Code currently allows a maximum height of 30 ft.
for the main structures in the Public District.
In regards to the setback variance, it appears that the closest portion of the parking lot at the
south side/front lot line of the property (along Anderson Lakes Parkway) is approximately
34 ft. and at 0 ft. setback along the east/side lot line of the property. City Code currently
requires a minimum yard setback of 50 ft. from the front and 10 ft. from the side lot line of
the property.
Staff recommends approval.
MOTION 1: Move to close the public hearing.
MOTION 1: Move to recommend approval of the Zoning District Change
from Rural to Public on 23.46 acres and Final Order 2016-08 based on the
information included in the staff report dated August 3, 2016.
D. FOREST HILLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Location: 13708 Holly Road
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 28.31 acres
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements
ANNOTATED AGENDA
August 8, 2016
Page 5
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter
regarding the City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the
proposed rezoning and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance
with the City Code and with the Comprehensive Plan.
Due to revisions to the City Code in 2010, schools unintentionally became a non-
conforming use. Staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding schools as a
permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from the Rural
District to the Public District.
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to
review that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting. The Commission is asked
to review a request to rezone the property from Rural district to Public district. The
Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use.
Staff is also recommending the Planning Commission approve a variance for the existing
conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there
are no site plans to review. The recommended variance would apply only to the existing
conditions.
Site Specific variance requests:
This site will require a setback variance for the existing building and parking lot. It appears
that the closest portion of the parking lot (at the northwest corner) has a 0 ft. setback from
both the west/side lot line and from the north/front lot line of the property. As for the
existing building, it currently does not meet any of the setback requirements. The building
currently has a 0 ft. setback from both the west and east side lot lines of the property, and
an approximate setback of 34 ft. from both the north/front and rear/south lot lines of the
property. City Code currently requires a building setback of 50 ft. from the front and rear
lot lines and a minimum of 50 ft. from the side lot lines and a total combined side yard
setback of 150 ft. in the Public District. City Code also requires a parking lot setback of 50
ft. from the front lot line and a 10 ft. side and rear lot line setback from the lot lines of the
property in the Public District.
Staff recommends approval.
MOTION 1: Move to close the public hearing.
MOTION 1: Move to recommend approval of the Zoning District Change
from Rural to Public on 28.31 acres and Final Order 2016-09 based on the
information included in the staff report dated August 3, 2016.
E. HENNEPIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Location: 13100 College View Drive
ANNOTATED AGENDA
August 8, 2016
Page 6
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 104.38 acres
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter
regarding the City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the
proposed rezoning and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance
with the City Code and with the Comprehensive Plan.
Due to revisions to the City Code in 2010, schools unintentionally became a non-
conforming use. Staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding schools as a
permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from the Rural
District to the Public District.
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to
review that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting. The Commission is asked
to review a request to rezone the property from Rural district to Public district. The
Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use.
Staff is also recommending the Planning Commission approve a variance for the existing
conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there
are no site plans to review. The recommended variance would apply only to the existing
conditions.
Site Specific variance requests:
The existing buildings and parking lots cross over the three lot lines of the properties that
the Hennepin Technical College campus site occupies. This essentially means that there is
an existing setback of 0 feet from various lot lines. There are also other reduced setbacks
from the front, side, and rear lot lines of the properties that are not depicted in the aerial
image above. City Code currently requires a building setback of 50 ft. from the front and
rear lot lines and a minimum of 50 ft. from the side lot lines and a total combined side yard
setback of 150 ft. in the Public District. City Code also requires a parking lot setback of 50
ft. from the front lot line and a 10 ft. side and rear lot line setback from the lot lines of the
property in the Public District.
Staff recommends approval.
MOTION 1: Move to close the public hearing.
MOTION 1: Move to recommend approval of the Zoning District Change
from Rural to Public on 104.38 acres and Final Order 2016-10 based on the
information included in the staff report dated August 3, 2016.
ANNOTATED AGENDA
August 8, 2016
Page 7
VIII. PLANNERS’ REPORT
IX. MEMBERS’ REPORT
X. CONTINUING BUSINESS
XI. NEW BUSINESS
XII. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Move to adjourn the Planning Commission meeting.
UNAPPROVED MINUTES
EDEN PRAIRIE PLANNING COMMISSION
MONDAY, JULY 11, 2016 7:00 P.M., CITY CENTER
Council Chambers
8080 Mitchell Road
COMMISSION MEMBERS: Jon Stoltz, John Kirk, Travis Wuttke, Ann Higgins,
Charles Weber, Andrew Pieper, Ed Farr, Mark
Freiberg, Tom Poul
CITY STAFF: Julie Klima, City Planner
Rod Rue, City Engineer
Matt Bourne, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources
Julie Krull, Recording Secretary
I. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – ROLL CALL
Chair Stoltz called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Kirk and Weber were absent.
II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: Higgins moved, seconded by Pieper, to approve the agenda. Motion carried 7-0.
III. MINUTES
A. PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JUNE 27, 2016
Farr recommended adding staff commentary on the Whitetail Bluff hearing in which
he asked for staffs response to potential homeowners when they would call to inquire
about potential adjacent development.
MOTION: Higgins moved, seconded by Farr, to approve the amended Planning
Commission Minutes. Motion carried 7-0.
IV. INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS
V. PUBLIC MEETINGS
VI. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. CODE AMENDMENT
Request to:
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
July 11, 2016
Page 2
• Amend the City Code Chapter 11, Section 11.35 to add schools as permitted
use in the Public Zoning District.
Klima said that prior to 2010; the City Code included public facilities as a permitted
use in all zoning districts. Public facilities were defined as those facilities owned by
any governmental unit and those services relating to electric, gas, telephone and
cablevision utilities. Schools were allowed under the term and definition of public
facilities. In 2010, the City Code was updated to eliminate the term public facilities
and in its place public infrastructure was listed as a permitted use in all zoning
districts. The adoption of the new terminology and definition unintentionally
resulted in schools becoming a non-conforming use. Staff is proposing to resolve
the issue with a two-step approach. The first step is to amend Section 11.35, Public
Zoning District to include schools as a permitted use. The second step is to initiate
rezoning of the Rural properties to Public, bringing those properties into
compliance with the Comprehensive Plan. Staff is working with representatives of
ISD 272 and Hennepin Tech to facilitate the rezoning requests and expects those
will be coming up in future meetings. Staff recommends approval of the
amendment change.
Wuttke asked in regards to infrastructure, what would City buildings be zoned.
Klima said the City Center is zoned industrial. Wuttke asked if the City buildings
would be under phase 2 or 3 and Klima responded they would.
Wuttke asked if private charter schools would fall under this code amendment.
Klima stated they would because they are funded through the State.
Chair Stoltz opened the meeting up for public input. There was no input.
MOTION: Pieper moved, seconded by Higgins, to close the public hearing.
Motion carried 7-0.
MOTION: Pieper moved, seconded by Higgins, to recommend approval of
amending the City Code Chapter 11, Section 11.35 to add schools as a permitted
use in the Public Zoning District and to add the definition of schools as noted in the
staff report dated July 6, 2016. Motion carried 7-0.
VII. PLANNERS’ REPORT
A. TEMPORARY HOUSING OPT-OUT
Request to:
• Make a recommendation to the City Council to amend the City Code to opt
out of Minnesota Statute 462.3593
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
July 11, 2016
Page 3
Klima stated in May 2016, the Minnesota Legislature passed legislation to allow for
local governments to begin issuing a new type of permit to allow certain types of
recreational vehicles, modular or manufactured housing as temporary dwellings.
This statute is intended to allow for transitional housing for seniors. The law allows
municipalities to issue permits allowing seniors that require assistance with 2 or
more instrumental activities of daily life to stay in temporary dwellings located on a
yard or driveway for 6 months with an option to extend the permit for 6 months.
Currently, the City Code does not permit temporary dwellings. Municipalities may
choose to opt out of the program by passing an ordinance affirming the opt-out
option prior to September 1, 2016. If the City chooses not to opt out, the statue
requires the City to issue permits to qualified applications starting September 1,
2016. The City would have 15 days (no extension) to make a decision on granting
the permit and waives the public hearing requirement. Staff is proposing to add a
section to the zoning ordinance that states the City of Eden Prairie is opting out of
the statute allowing temporary dwelling units. City Code requires the Planning
Commission provide a recommendation to the City Council on amendments to the
zoning chapter. Staff recommendation is to have the Commission recommend to
the City Council that City Code be amended to opt out of the temporary dwelling
legislation of Minnesota Statues Section 462.35.93.
Farr said he has some moral problems with this because these dwellings are
becoming more popular with the elderly and younger generations. After reading the
statute, he stated he did not see recreation vehicles listed. Farr also commented he
toured a micro home at the State Fair and the problem he has with this is that he
feels we are eliminating options to the residents without substitutions. He would
like to know when the State Statute came about and what other communities are
doing with this. Klima said in regards to other communities, she has not heard of
any communities that are choosing to opt-in. Klima said our code does not
currently allow for this but in the future the City could take a more comprehensive
look at this and this could be revised in the future.
Wuttke said he did not see anything either in the statute about recreational vehicles
and commented it seems like a stream line request. He also said he was disturbed
because at which point do we want the state to supersede us and has Staff thought
about this concept for the future without the state’s overreach. Klima said Staff has
not had a conversation in regards to this. There are broader issues in regards to this
that would have to be addressed before the September deadline, such as setbacks
and utility issues. Wuttke said he would like to see Eden Prairie do its own due
diligence and come up with their own language.
Chair Stoltz asked the Commission Members what they would like to recommend
to the City Council. Pieper said he would like more information on this. Wuttke
asked what the time line for the City Council would be. Klima said the first reading
is scheduled for July 19th and the second reading wouldpresumably be on August
16th. Wuttke stated he would like more information on this.
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
July 11, 2016
Page 4
Farr asked how many lots in Eden Prairie this would affect. He also asked if a
renter has the same rights as a single family owner. Farr commented he does not
see a lot of vehicles getting into a backyard and sees this as a driveway issue.
Klima stated some additional concerns were brought up at the Staff level. Some of
these had to do with language in regards to the temporary permits issued for these.
Wuttke said he read the maximum size for these units would be 300 square feet.
Poul said he supports opting out. He asked if there is a need in Eden Prairie to do
this and if there is, we should be looking into this more deeply. He also asked if
there is a practical piece to having these in winter. Klima commented staff has not
received requests for housing of these types of units.
Farr stated the commission could establish a position statement focusing on the
concept stating that the City supports the people of all ages in Eden Prairie. He also
said if we opt out tonight we are consistent with our ordinance.
Chair Stoltz asked if the Commission Members were okay with approving to opt
out. All members were in approval of opting out. Chair Stoltz commented they do
not want to exclude senior citizens from this and would like more information from
the City and State to make recommendations for further discussion on this. Klima
stated she would add that to the report to the City Council. Wuttke stated it would
be beneficial to create our own language versus going with the State’s language.
MOTION: Higgins moved, seconded by Farr, to move to recommend to the City
Council that City Code be amended to opt out of the temporary dwelling legislation
of Minnesota Statutes Section 462.3593 as noted in the staff report dated July 6,
2016. Motion carried 7-0.
B. JULY 25, 2016 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
Klima stated the Planning Commission meeting for July 25th, 2016 has been
cancelled.
VIII. MEMBERS’ REPORT
Wuttke made a comment he heard from the business and residential community
regarding park improvements at Round Lake and wanted to address some concerns.
Wuttke suggested the residents with questions or concerns contact Matt Bourne,
Parks & Natural Resources Manager.
IX. CONTINUING BUSINESS
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
July 11, 2016
Page 5
X. NEW BUSINESS
XI. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Pieper moved, seconded by Farr, to adjourn the Planning Commission meeting.
Motion carried 7-0.
Chair Stoltz adjourned the meeting at 7:37p.m.
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Angie Perera, Planner 1
DATE: August 3, 2016
PROJECT: Eden Prairie Schools – Rezoning & Variance
LOCATION: Cedar Ridge Elementary School – 8905 Braxton Drive
APPLICANT: City of Eden Prairie
OWNERS: Independent School District 272
120 DAY REVIEW: Not Applicable
REQUEST: 1. Rezoning from Rural District to Public District
2. Variance to exceed the 30 ft. maximum building height requirement for
the existing structure
BACKGROUND
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter regarding the
City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the proposed rezoning
and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance with the City Code and
with the Comprehensive Plan.
Prior to 2010, the City Code included public facilities as a permitted use in all zoning districts.
Public facilities were defined as “those facilities owned by any governmental unit and those
services relating to electric, gas, telephone and cablevision utilities.” Schools were allowed
under the term and definition of public facilities.
In 2010, the City Code was updated to eliminate the term public facilities and in its place public
infrastructure was listed as a permitted use in all zoning districts. The definition of “public
infrastructure” was limited to infrastructure and did not include schools. The adoption of the
new terminology and definition unintentionally resulted in schools becoming a non-conforming
use.
Rezoning:
Now that city staff is aware of this issue, staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding
schools as a permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from
the Rural District to the Public District.
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to review
that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting.
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-06 – Cedar Ridge Elementary School
August 3, 2016
Page 2 of 3
ISD 272 owns multiple properties within the City. Of those properties, 3 are currently zoned
Public and the remaining 4 sites are proposed for rezoning from Rural to Public. The adopted
Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use; therefore, the rezoning request is in
compliance with the Comprehensive Plan.
Variance(s):
Subsequently staff is recommending the Planning Commission approve a variance for the
existing conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there are no
site plans to review. Existing conditions that require attention due to the proposed zoning change
include the existing height of the building. The recommended variance would apply only to the
existing conditions.
Cedar Ridge Elementary School – Existing Building Height (NW corner)
The Rural district allows a building height of 40 feet, so at the time of construction, the height of
the building was compliant with City Code. The Public district has a maximum building height
of 30 feet, so staff is recommending approval of a variance to allow the existing condition in
order for the site to maintain its conforming status.
Staff has used Hennepin County Oblique Pictometry (aerial imagery) to obtain approximate
measurements of existing conditions. It appears that the tallest portion of the building (at the
northwest corner) is approximately 37 ft. tall or greater. City Code currently allows a maximum
height of 30 ft. for the main structures in the Public District. No setback variances are necessary
for this site.
VARIANCE REQUEST
Variances may be granted when they are “in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the
ordinance and when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan.” Furthermore
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-06 – Cedar Ridge Elementary School
August 3, 2016
Page 3 of 3
variances may “be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are practical
difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. ‘Practical difficulties,’ as used in
connection with the granting of a variance, means that the property owner proposes to use the
property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the zoning ordinance; the plight of the
landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the landowner; and the
variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.”
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
The requested variance will not alter the existing use of the property as a school.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. The building height is an existing
condition. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1991 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The Rural district allows a building height of 40 feet, so at the time of construction, the
height of the building was compliant with City Code. The Public zoning district has a maximum
building height of 30 feet. The existing building is in conformance with the maximum building
height requirements of the existing, Rural zoning district in which the property is currently
located. To bring the property into compliance with the existing comprehensive plan and with
the existing use of the property, the property is being re-zoned to the Public zoning district.
Rezoning the property to the Public district would create a non-conforming building height for
the existing building without approval of the variance.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variance will not change the character of the locality.
The building height is an existing condition. No changes are being proposed to the site.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Recommend approval of the rezoning the property from Rural District to Public District.
2. Approve Final Order No. 2016-06 approving a Variance to exceed the building height
requirement for the existing portion(s) of the building that currently exceed the 30 ft.
maximum building height of the Public District, contingent upon approval of the
rezoning to the Public District.
VARIANCE #2016-06
CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE
PLANNING COMMISSION
FINAL ORDER 2016-06
Applicant: City of Eden Prairie
ADDRESS: 8905 Braxton Drive, Eden Prairie, Minnesota
OTHER DESCRIPTION: PID # 20-116-22-13-0049
VARIANCE REQUEST:
Variance to exceed the 30 ft. maximum building height requirement for the existing structure
The Board of Adjustments and Appeals for the City of Eden Prairie at a regular meeting thereof duly
considered the above petition and after hearing and examining all of the evidence presented and the file therein
does hereby find and order as follows:
1. All procedural requirements necessary for the review of said variance have been met. (Yes X No N/A).
2. Variance 2016-06 is:
_____ granted
_____ modified
_____ denied
3. Findings and conditions are attached as Exhibit A.
4. This order shall be effective fifteen days after the decision of the Board of Adjustment and Appeals or on
August 8, 2016; however, this variance shall lapse and be of no effect unless the erection or alternatives
permitted shall occur within one (1) year of the effective date unless said period of time is extended
pursuant to the appropriate procedures prior to the expiration of one year from the effective date hereof.
5. All Board of Adjustments and Appeals actions are subject to City Council Review.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
N/A = Not Applicable BY:_____________________________________
Jon Stoltz - Chair
Date: August 8, 2016
EXHIBIT A – FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS
Variance Request #2016-06
FINDINGS
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
Schools are permitted in the Public zoning district. The requested variance will not alter the
existing use of the property as a school.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. It is reasonable for a school to be
taller than 30 feet. Other existing schools within the Public zoning district are taller than 30 feet.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1991 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The Rural district allows a building height of 40 feet, so at the time of construction, the
height of the building was compliant with City Code. The Public zoning district has a maximum
building height of 30 feet. The existing building is in conformance with the maximum building
height requirements of the existing, Rural zoning district in which the property is currently
located. To bring the property into compliance with the existing comprehensive plan and with
the existing use of the property, the property is being re-zoned to the Public zoning district.
Rezoning the property to the Public district will create a non-conforming building height for the
existing building.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variance will not change the character of the locality for the following reasons:
The building height is an existing condition. No changes are being proposed to the site.
CONDITIONS: This variance is approved contingent upon approval of the re-zoning of the property
to the Public zoning district.
SITE
Braxton Drive
Mayfield Drive
Rogers Road
Trenton Lane
Gould Road
Sylvan Ridge
¯
Area Location Map - Cedar Ridge Elementary SchoolSite Address: 8905 Braxton Drive, Eden Prairie, MN
0 410 820205 Feet
SITE
Sylan Ridge
Rogers Road
Braxton Drive
Trenton Lane
Mayfield Drive
Streams
Principal Arterial
A Minor Arterial
B Minor Arterial
Major Collector
Minor Collector
City of Eden Prairie Land Use GuidePlan Map 2000-2030
¯
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.
M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialGuidePlan.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: April 18, 2008
DATE Revised 02-23-06
DATE Approved 03-19-03
DATE Revised 01-07-05
DATE Revised 11-07-05
DATE Revised 03-23-06
DATE Revised 06-23-06
DATE Revised 12-06-06
DATE Revised 03-01-07
DATE Revised 06-01-07
DATE Revised 10-01-07
DATE Revised 03-01-08
DATE Revised 03-01-09
Guide Plan Map - Cedar Ridge Elementary School8905 Braxton Drive, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Rural Residential 0.10 Units/Acre
Low Density Residential 0-2.5 Units/Acre
Low Density/Public/Open Space
Medium Density residential 2.5-10 Units/Acre
Medium Density Residential/Office
High Density Residential 10-40 Units/Acre
Airport
Office
Office/Industrial
Office/Public/Open Space
Industrial
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Regional Commercial
Town Center
Park/Open Space
Public/Quasi-Public
Golf Course
Church/ Cemetary
Open Water
Right-Of-Way
CityLimits 370 0 370185 Feet
SITE
Braxton Drive
Trenton Lane
Sylvan Ridge
Rogers Road
Mayfield Drive
BRAXTON DRROGERS RD
MAYFIELD DR
GOULD RDT RENTON LN
CANDLEWOOD PKWY
BAINBRIDGE DR
S
Y
L
V
A
N
R
D
G
R A L E I G H LN STANLEYTRLDOUGLAS DRLIVI
NGSTONLNMCGUFFEY RDKENNINGRDK
ELSEYLN
DEWEY CT GATEWAY LNCity of Eden Prairie Zoning Map
In case of discrepency related to a zoning classification on this zoning map, the Ordinance
and attached legal description on file at Eden Prairie City Center will prevail.
¯
Shoreland Management Classifications
100 - Year Floodplain
Natural Environment Waters
Recreational Development Waters
General Development Waters (Creeks Only)GD
NE
RD
Up dated through approved Ordinances #26-2008
Ordinance #33-2001 (BFI Addition) approved, but not shown on this map edition
Date: March 1, 2009
0 0.150.075
Miles
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.
Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialZoning.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: June 11, 2008
Zoning Map - Cedar Ridge Elementary School8905 Braxton DriveEden Prairie, MN 55347
Rural
R1-44 One Family- 44,000 sf. min.
R1-22 One Family-22,000 sf min.
R1-13.5 One Family-13,500 sf min.
R1-9.5 One Family-9,500 sf min.
RM-6.5 Multi-Family-6.7 U.P.A. max.
RM-2.5 Multi-Family-17.4 U.P.A. max.
Office
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Highway Commercial
Regional Service Commercial
Regional Commercial
TC-C
TC-R
TC-MU
Industrial Park - 2 Acre Min,
Industrial Park - 5 Acre Min.
General Industrial - 5 Acre Min.
Public
Golf Course
Water
Right of Way
SITE
Rogers Road
Braxton Drive
Mayfield Drive
Sylvan Ridge
¯
Aerial Map: Cedar Ridge Elementary SchoolAddress: 8905 Braxton DriveEden Prairie, Minnesota 55347
0 410 820205 Feet
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Angie Perera, Planner 1
DATE: August 8, 2016
PROJECT: Eden Prairie Schools – Rezoning & Variance
LOCATION: Oak Point Elementary School – 13400 Staring Lake Parkway
APPLICANT: City of Eden Prairie
OWNERS: Independent School District 272
120 DAY REVIEW: Not Applicable
REQUEST: 1. Rezoning from Rural District to Public District
2. Variance to allow reduced setbacks for the existing parking lot
BACKGROUND
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter regarding the
City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the proposed rezoning
and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance with the City Code and
with the Comprehensive Plan.
Prior to 2010, the City Code included public facilities as a permitted use in all zoning districts.
Public facilities were defined as “those facilities owned by any governmental unit and those
services relating to electric, gas, telephone and cablevision utilities.” Schools were allowed
under the term and definition of public facilities.
In 2010, the City Code was updated to eliminate the term public facilities and in its place public
infrastructure was listed as a permitted use in all zoning districts. The definition of “public
infrastructure” was limited to infrastructure and did not include schools. The adoption of the
new terminology and definition unintentionally resulted in schools becoming a non-conforming
use.
Rezoning:
Now that city staff is aware of this issue, staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding
schools as a permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from
the Rural District to the Public District.
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to review
that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting.
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-07 – Oak Point Elementary School
August 3, 2016
Page 2 of 3
ISD 272 owns multiple properties within the City. Of those properties, 3 are currently zoned
Public and the remaining 4 sites are proposed for rezoning from Rural to Public. The adopted
Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use; therefore, the rezoning request is in
compliance with the Comprehensive Plan.
Variances:
Subsequently staff is recommending the Planning Commission approve the variance requests for
the existing conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there are no
site plans to review. Existing conditions that require attention due to the proposed zoning change
include the existing setbacks for the parking lots. The recommended variance requests would
apply only to the existing conditions.
Oak Point Elementary School – Existing Setbacks
Staff has used Hennepin County Oblique Pictometry (aerial imagery) to obtain approximate
measurements of existing conditions. This site will require a setback variance for the existing
parking lot. It appears that the closest portion of the parking lot (at the northwest corner) has an
approximate setback of 46 ft. along the west/front lot line (along Staring Lake Parkway) and
approximately 48 ft. along the north/front lot line (along Anderson Lakes Parkway). All other
existing parking lot and building setbacks meet the requirements of the City Code. City Code
currently requires that parking lots meet the required front yard setback. The front yard setback
in the Public District is 50 ft.
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-07 – Oak Point Elementary School
August 3, 2016
Page 3 of 3
VARIANCE REQUEST
Variances may be granted when they are “in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the
ordinance and when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan.” Furthermore
variances may “be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are practical
difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. ‘Practical difficulties,’ as used in
connection with the granting of a variance, means that the property owner proposes to use the
property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the zoning ordinance; the plight of the
landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the landowner; and the
variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.”
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
The requested variance will not alter the existing use of the property as a school. The setbacks of
the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. The setbacks of the parking lot are
existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1989 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The setbacks of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed
to the site.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variances will not change the character of the locality.
The setbacks of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the
site.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommend approval of the following requests:
1. Recommend approval of the rezoning the property from Rural District to Public District.
2. Approve Final Order No. 2016-07 approving a Variance to allow reduced setbacks for the
existing parking lot for only the existing portion(s) of the parking lot that do not meet the
minimum yard setback requirements of 50 ft. from the front lot line of the property of the
Public District, contingent upon approval of the rezoning to the Public District.
VARIANCE #2016-07
CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE
PLANNING COMMISSION
FINAL ORDER 2016-07
Applicant: City of Eden Prairie
ADDRESS: 13400 Staring Lake Parkway, Eden Prairie, Minnesota
OTHER DESCRIPTION: PID # 22-116-22-13-0004
VARIANCE REQUEST:
Variance to allow the existing reduced setbacks for the existing parking lot
The Board of Adjustments and Appeals for the City of Eden Prairie at a regular meeting thereof duly
considered the above petition and after hearing and examining all of the evidence presented and the file therein
does hereby find and order as follows:
1. All procedural requirements necessary for the review of said variance have been met. (Yes X No N/A).
2. Variance 2016-07 is:
_____ granted
_____ modified
_____ denied
3. Findings and conditions are attached as Exhibit A.
4. This order shall be effective fifteen days after the decision of the Board of Adjustment and Appeals or on
August 8, 2016; however, this variance shall lapse and be of no effect unless the erection or alternatives
permitted shall occur within one (1) year of the effective date unless said period of time is extended
pursuant to the appropriate procedures prior to the expiration of one year from the effective date hereof.
5. All Board of Adjustments and Appeals actions are subject to City Council Review.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
N/A = Not Applicable BY:_____________________________________
Jon Stoltz - Chair
Date: August 8, 2016
EXHIBIT A – FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS
Variance Request #2016-07
FINDINGS
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
The requested variance will not alter the existing use of the property as a school. The setbacks of
the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. The setbacks of the parking lot are
existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1989 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The setbacks of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed
to the site.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variances will not change the character of the locality.
The setbacks of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the
site.
CONDITIONS: This variance is approved contingent upon approval of the re-zoning of the
property to the Public zoning district.
SITE
Anderson Lakes Parkway
Staring Lake Parkway
Essex Court
Columbine Road
Garden Lane
¯
Area Location Map - Oak Point Elementary School
Site Address: 13400 Staring Lake Parkway, Eden Prairie, MN
0 410 820205 Feet
SITE
Anderson Lakes Parkway
Staring Lake Parkway
Essex Court
Streams
Principal Arterial
A Minor Arterial
B Minor Arterial
Major Collector
Minor Collector
City of Eden Prairie Land Use GuidePlan Map 2000-2030
¯
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.
M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialGuidePlan.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: April 18, 2008
DATE Revised 02-23-06
DATE Approved 03-19-03
DATE Revised 01-07-05
DATE Revised 11-07-05
DATE Revised 03-23-06
DATE Revised 06-23-06
DATE Revised 12-06-06
DATE Revised 03-01-07
DATE Revised 06-01-07
DATE Revised 10-01-07
DATE Revised 03-01-08
DATE Revised 03-01-09
Guide Plan Map - Oak Point Elementary School13400 Staring Lake Parkway, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Rural Residential 0.10 Units/Acre
Low Density Residential 0-2.5 Units/Acre
Low Density/Public/Open Space
Medium Density residential 2.5-10 Units/Acre
Medium Density Residential/Office
High Density Residential 10-40 Units/Acre
Airport
Office
Office/Industrial
Office/Public/Open Space
Industrial
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Regional Commercial
Town Center
Park/Open Space
Public/Quasi-Public
Golf Course
Church/ Cemetary
Open Water
Right-Of-Way
CityLimits 390 0 390195 Feet
SITE
Staring Lake Parkway
Essex Court Anderson Lakes Parkway
S TA R IN G LA K E P K W Y
ANDERSONLAKESPKWY COLUMBINE RDESSEX CT
G AR DEN LN
CUMB
E
RL
A
N
D
R
D
KNOL
LWOOD
DRMAGNOLIA TRLB
E
R
KSHIRELN
PINEBLUFFCT
HAWTH
O
R
N
E
D
RWE
L
LI
NGTONDRLANGLEY CTN O R T H R UP TRL MARIGOLD CIRDA H L I A C IR
S P E N C E R S W E E TPEALNLADINOCIRCity of Eden Prairie Zoning Map
In case of discrepency related to a zoning classification on this zoning map, the Ordinance
and attached legal description on file at Eden Prairie City Center will prevail.
¯
Shoreland Management Classifications
100 - Year Floodplain
Natural Environment Waters
Recreational Development Waters
General Development Waters (Creeks Only)GD
NE
RD
Up dated through approved Ordinances #26-2008
Ordinance #33-2001 (BFI Addition) approved, but not shown on this map edition
Date: March 1, 2009
0 0.150.075
Miles
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.
Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialZoning.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: June 11, 2008
Zoning Map - Oak Point Elementary School13400 Staring Lake ParkwayEden Prairie, MN 55347
Rural
R1-44 One Family- 44,000 sf. min.
R1-22 One Family-22,000 sf min.
R1-13.5 One Family-13,500 sf min.
R1-9.5 One Family-9,500 sf min.
RM-6.5 Multi-Family-6.7 U.P.A. max.
RM-2.5 Multi-Family-17.4 U.P.A. max.
Office
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Highway Commercial
Regional Service Commercial
Regional Commercial
TC-C
TC-R
TC-MU
Industrial Park - 2 Acre Min,
Industrial Park - 5 Acre Min.
General Industrial - 5 Acre Min.
Public
Golf Course
Water
Right of Way
SITE
Anderson Lakes Parkway
Staring Lake Parkway
Essex Court
¯
Aerial Map: Oak Point Elementary SchoolAddress:13400 Staring Lake ParkwayEden Prairie, Minnesota 55347
0 410 820205 Feet
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Angie Perera, Planner 1
DATE: August 3, 2016
PROJECT: Eden Prairie Schools – Rezoning & Variance
LOCATION: Eden Lake Elementary School – 12000 Anderson Lakes Parkway
APPLICANT: City of Eden Prairie
OWNERS: Independent School District 272
120 DAY REVIEW: Not Applicable
REQUEST: 1. Rezoning from Rural District to Public District
2. Variance to allow reduced setbacks for the existing parking lot
3. Variance to exceed the 30 ft. maximum building height requirement for
the existing structure
BACKGROUND
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter regarding the
City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the proposed rezoning
and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance with the City Code and
with the Comprehensive Plan.
Prior to 2010, the City Code included public facilities as a permitted use in all zoning districts.
Public facilities were defined as “those facilities owned by any governmental unit and those
services relating to electric, gas, telephone and cablevision utilities.” Schools were allowed
under the term and definition of public facilities.
In 2010, the City Code was updated to eliminate the term public facilities and in its place public
infrastructure was listed as a permitted use in all zoning districts. The definition of “public
infrastructure” was limited to infrastructure and did not include schools. The adoption of the
new terminology and definition unintentionally resulted in schools becoming a non-conforming
use.
Rezoning:
Now that city staff is aware of this issue, staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding
schools as a permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from
the Rural District to the Public District.
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to review
that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting.
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-08 – Eden Lake Elementary School
August 3, 2016
Page 2 of 4
ISD 272 owns multiple properties within the City. Of those properties, 3 are currently zoned
Public and the remaining 4 sites are proposed for rezoning from Rural to Public. The adopted
Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use; therefore, the rezoning request is in
compliance with the Comprehensive Plan.
Variances:
Subsequently staff is recommending the Planning Commission approve the variance requests for
the existing conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there are no
site plans to review. Existing conditions that require attention due to the proposed zoning change
include the existing height of the building and for the existing setbacks of the parking lot. The
recommended variance requests would apply only to the existing conditions.
Eden Lake Elementary School – Existing Setbacks
Eden Lake Elementary School – Existing Building Height (NW corner)
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-08 – Eden Lake Elementary School
August 3, 2016
Page 3 of 4
The Rural district allows a building height of 40 feet, so at the time of construction, the height of
the building was compliant with City Code. The Public district has a maximum building height
of 30 feet, so staff is recommending approval of a variance to allow the existing condition in
order for the site to maintain its conforming status.
Staff has used Hennepin County Oblique Pictometry (aerial imagery) to obtain approximate
measurements of existing conditions. It appears that the tallest portion of the existing building (at
the northwest corner) is approximately 36 feet or greater. City Code currently allows a maximum
height of 30 ft. for the main structures in the Public District.
In regards to the setback variance, it appears that the closest portion of the parking lot at the
south side/front lot line of the property (along Anderson Lakes Parkway) is approximately 34 ft.
and at 0 ft. setback along the east/side lot line of the property. City Code currently requires a
minimum yard setback of 50 ft. from the front and 10 ft. from the side lot line of the property.
VARIANCE REQUEST
Variances may be granted when they are “in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the
ordinance and when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan.” Furthermore
variances may “be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are practical
difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. ‘Practical difficulties,’ as used in
connection with the granting of a variance, means that the property owner proposes to use the
property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the zoning ordinance; the plight of the
landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the landowner; and the
variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.”
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
The requested variance will not alter the existing use of the property as a school.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. The building height and the setbacks
of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1993 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The Rural district allows a building height of 40 feet, so at the time of construction, the
height of the building was compliant with City Code. The Public zoning district has a maximum
building height of 30 feet. The existing building is in conformance with the maximum building
height requirements of the existing, Rural zoning district in which the property is currently
located. To bring the property into compliance with the existing comprehensive plan and with
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-08 – Eden Lake Elementary School
August 3, 2016
Page 4 of 4
the existing use of the property, the property is being re-zoned to the Public zoning district.
Rezoning the property to the Public district would create a non-conforming building height for
the existing building without approval of the variance. The setbacks of the parking lot are also
existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variances will not change the character of the locality.
The building height and the setbacks of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are
being proposed to the site.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Recommend approval of the rezoning the property from Rural District to Public District.
2. Approve Final Order No. 2016-08 approving a Variance to exceed the building height
requirement for the existing portion(s) of the building that currently exceed the 30 ft.
maximum building height of the Public District and approving a Variance to allow
reduced setbacks for the existing parking lot for only the existing portion(s) of the
parking lot that do not meet the 50 ft. minimum setback from the front lot line, and 10 ft.
minimum side lot line setback of the property of the Public District, contingent upon
approval of the rezoning to the Public District.
VARIANCE #2016-08
CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE
PLANNING COMMISSION
FINAL ORDER 2016-08
Applicant: City of Eden Prairie
ADDRESS: 12000 Anderson Lakes Parkway, Eden Prairie, Minnesota
OTHER DESCRIPTION: PID # 23-116-22-13-0002
VARIANCE REQUEST:
• Variance to allow the existing reduced setbacks for the existing parking lot
• Variance to exceed the 30 ft. maximum building height requirement for the existing structure
The Board of Adjustments and Appeals for the City of Eden Prairie at a regular meeting thereof duly
considered the above petition and after hearing and examining all of the evidence presented and the file therein
does hereby find and order as follows:
1. All procedural requirements necessary for the review of said variance have been met. (Yes X No N/A).
2. Variance 2016-08 is:
_____ granted
_____ modified
_____ denied
3. Findings and conditions are attached as Exhibit A.
4. This order shall be effective fifteen days after the decision of the Board of Adjustment and Appeals or on
August 8, 2016; however, this variance shall lapse and be of no effect unless the erection or alternatives
permitted shall occur within one (1) year of the effective date unless said period of time is extended
pursuant to the appropriate procedures prior to the expiration of one year from the effective date hereof.
5. All Board of Adjustments and Appeals actions are subject to City Council Review.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
N/A = Not Applicable BY:_____________________________________
Jon Stoltz - Chair
Date: August 8, 2016
EXHIBIT A – FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS
Variance Request #2016-08
FINDINGS
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
The requested variance will not alter the existing use of the property as a school.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. The building height and the setbacks
of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1993 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The Rural district allows a building height of 40 feet, so at the time of construction, the
height of the building was compliant with City Code. The Public zoning district has a maximum
building height of 30 feet. The existing building is in conformance with the maximum building
height requirements of the existing, Rural zoning district in which the property is currently
located. To bring the property into compliance with the existing comprehensive plan and with
the existing use of the property, the property is being re-zoned to the Public zoning district.
Rezoning the property to the Public district would create a non-conforming building height for
the existing building without approval of the variance. The setbacks of the parking lot are also
existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variances will not change the character of the locality.
The building height and the setbacks of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are
being proposed to the site.
CONDITIONS: This variance is approved contingent upon approval of the re-zoning of the
property to the Public zoning district.
SITE
Anderson Lakes Pkwy
Waterford Ct
Darnel Rd
Grier Ln
Homeward Hills Rd
Perserve Blvd
¯
Area Location Map - Eden Lake Elementary School
Site Address: 12000 Anderson Lakes Parkway, Eden Prairie, MN
0 500 1,000250 Feet
Neill Lake
Eden LakeEden Lake
SITE
Grier Lane
Anderson Lakes ParkwayHomeward Hills Road
Darnel Road
Streams
Principal Arterial
A Minor Arterial
B Minor Arterial
Major Collector
Minor Collector
City of Eden Prairie Land Use GuidePlan Map 2000-2030
¯
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.
M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialGuidePlan.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: April 18, 2008
DATE Revised 02-23-06
DATE Approved 03-19-03
DATE Revised 01-07-05
DATE Revised 11-07-05
DATE Revised 03-23-06
DATE Revised 06-23-06
DATE Revised 12-06-06
DATE Revised 03-01-07
DATE Revised 06-01-07
DATE Revised 10-01-07
DATE Revised 03-01-08
DATE Revised 03-01-09
Guide Plan Map - Eden Lake Elementary School12000 Anderson Lakes Parkway, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Rural Residential 0.10 Units/Acre
Low Density Residential 0-2.5 Units/Acre
Low Density/Public/Open Space
Medium Density residential 2.5-10 Units/Acre
Medium Density Residential/Office
High Density Residential 10-40 Units/Acre
Airport
Office
Office/Industrial
Office/Public/Open Space
Industrial
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Regional Commercial
Town Center
Park/Open Space
Public/Quasi-Public
Golf Course
Church/ Cemetary
Open Water
Right-Of-Way
CityLimits 370 0 370185 Feet
SITE
Grier lane
Anderson Lakes Parkway
Darnel Road
Homeward hills Road
AND
E
R
S
O
N
L
A
K
E
S
P
K
W
Y
HOMEWARD HILLS RDGRIER LN
DARNEL RDWATERFORD RD KNOBLE CTKATHRYNCTJASMINE LNCity of Eden Prairie Zoning Map
In case of discrepency related to a zoning classification on this zoning map, the Ordinance
and attached legal description on file at Eden Prairie City Center will prevail.
¯
Shoreland Management Classifications
100 - Year Floodplain
Natural Environment Waters
Recreational Development Waters
General Development Waters (Creeks Only)GD
NE
RD
Up dated through approved Ordinances #26-2008
Ordinance #33-2001 (BFI Addition) approved, but not shown on this map edition
Date: March 1, 2009
0 0.150.075
Miles
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.
Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialZoning.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: June 11, 2008
Zoning Map - Eden Lake Elementary School12000 Anderson Lakes ParkwayEden Prairie, MN 55347
Rural
R1-44 One Family- 44,000 sf. min.
R1-22 One Family-22,000 sf min.
R1-13.5 One Family-13,500 sf min.
R1-9.5 One Family-9,500 sf min.
RM-6.5 Multi-Family-6.7 U.P.A. max.
RM-2.5 Multi-Family-17.4 U.P.A. max.
Office
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Highway Commercial
Regional Service Commercial
Regional Commercial
TC-C
TC-R
TC-MU
Industrial Park - 2 Acre Min,
Industrial Park - 5 Acre Min.
General Industrial - 5 Acre Min.
Public
Golf Course
Water
Right of Way
SITE
Anderson Lakes Parkway
Homeward Hills Road
Grier Lane
Darnel Road
¯
Aerial Map: Eden Lake Elementary SchoolAddress:12000 Anderson Lakes ParkwayEden Prairie, Minnesota 55347
0 330 660165 Feet
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Angie Perera, Planner 1
DATE: August 8, 2016
PROJECT: Eden Prairie Schools – Rezoning & Variance
LOCATION: Forest Hills Elementary School – 13708 Holly Road
APPLICANT: City of Eden Prairie
OWNERS: Independent School District 272
120 DAY REVIEW: Not Applicable
REQUEST: 1. Rezoning from Rural District to Public District
2. Variance to allow reduced setbacks for the existing building and
parking lot
BACKGROUND
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter regarding the
City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the proposed rezoning
and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance with the City Code and
with the Comprehensive Plan.
Prior to 2010, the City Code included public facilities as a permitted use in all zoning districts.
Public facilities were defined as “those facilities owned by any governmental unit and those
services relating to electric, gas, telephone and cablevision utilities.” Schools were allowed
under the term and definition of public facilities.
In 2010, the City Code was updated to eliminate the term public facilities and in its place public
infrastructure was listed as a permitted use in all zoning districts. The definition of “public
infrastructure” was limited to infrastructure and did not include schools. The adoption of the
new terminology and definition unintentionally resulted in schools becoming a non-conforming
use.
Rezoning:
Now that city staff is aware of this issue, staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding
schools as a permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from
the Rural District to the Public District.
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to review
that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting.
ISD 272 owns multiple properties within the City. Of those properties, 3 are currently zoned
Public and the remaining 4 sites are proposed for rezoning from Rural to Public. The adopted
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-09 – Forest Hills Elementary School
August 3, 2016
Page 2 of 3
Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use; therefore, the rezoning request is in
compliance with the Comprehensive Plan.
Variances:
Subsequently staff is recommending the Planning Commission approve the variance requests for
the existing conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there are no
site plans to review. Existing conditions that require attention due to the proposed zoning change
include the existing setbacks of for these structures including existing buildings and parking lots.
The recommended variance requests would apply only to the existing conditions.
Forest Hills Elementary School – Existing Setbacks
Staff has used Hennepin County Oblique Pictometry (aerial imagery) to obtain approximate
measurements of existing conditions. This site will require a setback variance for the existing
building and parking lot. It appears that the closest portion of the parking lot (at the northwest
corner) has a 0 ft. setback from both the west/side lot line and from the north/front lot line of the
property. As for the existing building, it currently does not meet any of the setback requirements.
The building currently has a 0 ft. setback from both the west and east side lot lines of the
property, and an approximate setback of 34 ft. from both the north/front and rear/south lot lines
of the property. City Code currently requires a building setback of 50 ft. from the front and rear
lot lines and a minimum of 50 ft. from the side lot lines and a total combined side yard setback of
150 ft. in the Public District. City Code also requires a parking lot setback of 50 ft. from the front
lot line and a 10 ft. side and rear lot line setback from the lot lines of the property in the Public
District.
VARIANCE REQUEST
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-09 – Forest Hills Elementary School
August 3, 2016
Page 3 of 3
Variances may be granted when they are “in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the
ordinance and when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan.” Furthermore
variances may “be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are practical
difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. ‘Practical difficulties,’ as used in
connection with the granting of a variance, means that the property owner proposes to use the
property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the zoning ordinance; the plight of the
landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the landowner; and the
variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.”
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
The requested variance will not alter the existing use of the property as a school. The building
height and the setbacks of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed
to the site.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. The building height and the setbacks
of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1970 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The building and parking lot setbacks are existing conditions. No changes are being
proposed to the site.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variances will not change the character of the locality.
The building and parking lot setbacks are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to
the site.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Recommend approval of the rezoning the property from Rural District to Public District.
2. Approve Final Order No. 2016-09 approving a Variance to allow reduced setbacks for the
existing buildings and existing parking lots for only the existing portions of the buildings
and parking lots that do not meet the building setback of 50 ft. from the front and rear lot
lines and a minimum of 50 ft. from the side lot lines and a total combined side yard
setback of 150 ft. in the Public District and for the parking lots that do not meet the 50 ft.
front lot line and the 10 ft. side and rear lot line setback from the lot lines of the property
in the Public District.
VARIANCE #2016-09
CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE
PLANNING COMMISSION
FINAL ORDER 2016-09
Applicant: City of Eden Prairie
ADDRESS: 13708 Holly Road, Eden Prairie, Minnesota
OTHER DESCRIPTION: PID # 03-116-22-31-0001
VARIANCE REQUEST:
Variance to allow the existing reduced setbacks for the existing structure and parking lot
The Board of Adjustments and Appeals for the City of Eden Prairie at a regular meeting thereof duly
considered the above petition and after hearing and examining all of the evidence presented and the file therein
does hereby find and order as follows:
1. All procedural requirements necessary for the review of said variance have been met. (Yes X No N/A).
2. Variance 2016-09 is:
_____ granted
_____ modified
_____ denied
3. Findings and conditions are attached as Exhibit A.
4. This order shall be effective fifteen days after the decision of the Board of Adjustment and Appeals or on
August 8, 2016; however, this variance shall lapse and be of no effect unless the erection or alternatives
permitted shall occur within one (1) year of the effective date unless said period of time is extended
pursuant to the appropriate procedures prior to the expiration of one year from the effective date hereof.
5. All Board of Adjustments and Appeals actions are subject to City Council Review.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
N/A = Not Applicable BY:_____________________________________
Jon Stoltz - Chair
Date: August 8, 2016
EXHIBIT A – FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS
Variance Request #2016-09
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
The requested variance will not alter the existing use of the property as a school. The building
height and the setbacks of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed
to the site.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. The building height and the setbacks
of the parking lot are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1970 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The building and parking lot setbacks are existing conditions. No changes are being
proposed to the site.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variances will not change the character of the locality.
The building and parking lot setbacks are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to
the site.
CONDITIONS: This variance is approved contingent upon approval of the re-zoning of the
property to the Public zoning district.
Rosemary Road
Holly Road
Baker Road
SITE
¯
Area Location Map - Forest Hills Elementary SchoolSite Address: 13708 Holly Road, Eden Prairie, MN
0 290 580145 Feet
SITE
Manchester Lane
Holly Road
Rosemary Road
Baker Road
Streams
Principal Arterial
A Minor Arterial
B Minor Arterial
Major Collector
Minor Collector
City of Eden Prairie Land Use GuidePlan Map 2000-2030
¯
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.
M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialGuidePlan.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: April 18, 2008
DATE Revised 02-23-06
DATE Approved 03-19-03
DATE Revised 01-07-05
DATE Revised 11-07-05
DATE Revised 03-23-06
DATE Revised 06-23-06
DATE Revised 12-06-06
DATE Revised 03-01-07
DATE Revised 06-01-07
DATE Revised 10-01-07
DATE Revised 03-01-08
DATE Revised 03-01-09
Guide Plan Map - Forest Hills Elementary School13708 Holly Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55346
Rural Residential 0.10 Units/Acre
Low Density Residential 0-2.5 Units/Acre
Low Density/Public/Open Space
Medium Density residential 2.5-10 Units/Acre
Medium Density Residential/Office
High Density Residential 10-40 Units/Acre
Airport
Office
Office/Industrial
Office/Public/Open Space
Industrial
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Regional Commercial
Town Center
Park/Open Space
Public/Quasi-Public
Golf Course
Church/ Cemetary
Open Water
Right-Of-Way
CityLimits 300 0 300150 Feet
SITE
Baker Road
Holly Road
Rosemary Road
Manchester Lane
QR60
HOLLY RD
R O SEM ARYRDMANCHESTER LNSAND RIDGE RDTANAGER LN
C
A
R
D
I
N
A
L
C
R
E
E
K
R
D
JAMES PL
O
AKHILL CT
WOODMERE CIR
PROMON
T
O
R
Y
D
R
ROSEM AR Y R D BAKER RDCity of Eden Prairie Zoning Map
In case of discrepency related to a zoning classification on this zoning map, the Ordinance
and attached legal description on file at Eden Prairie City Center will prevail.
¯
Shoreland Management Classifications
100 - Year Floodplain
Natural Environment Waters
Recreational Development Waters
General Development Waters (Creeks Only)GD
NE
RD
Up dated through approved Ordinances #26-2008
Ordinance #33-2001 (BFI Addition) approved, but not shown on this map edition
Date: March 1, 2009
0 0.150.075
Miles
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.
Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialZoning.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: June 11, 2008
Zoning Map -Forest Hills Elementary School13708 Holly RoadEden Prairie, MN 55346
Rural
R1-44 One Family- 44,000 sf. min.
R1-22 One Family-22,000 sf min.
R1-13.5 One Family-13,500 sf min.
R1-9.5 One Family-9,500 sf min.
RM-6.5 Multi-Family-6.7 U.P.A. max.
RM-2.5 Multi-Family-17.4 U.P.A. max.
Office
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Highway Commercial
Regional Service Commercial
Regional Commercial
TC-C
TC-R
TC-MU
Industrial Park - 2 Acre Min,
Industrial Park - 5 Acre Min.
General Industrial - 5 Acre Min.
Public
Golf Course
Water
Right of Way
SITE
Baker Road
Manchester Lane
Holly Road
Rosemary Road ¯
Aerial Map: Forest HillsElementary SchoolAddress: 13708 Holly RoadEden Prairie, Minnesota 55346
0 340 680170 Feet
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Angie Perera, Planner 1
DATE: August 3, 2016
PROJECT: Eden Prairie Schools – Rezoning & Variance
LOCATION: Hennepin Technical College – 13100 College View Drive
(3 parcels including PID # 22-116-22-44-0001, PID # 22-116-22-43-0001,
& PID # 22-116-22-42-0001)
APPLICANT: City of Eden Prairie
OWNERS: State of Minnesota (Hennepin Technical College)
120 DAY REVIEW: Not Applicable
REQUEST: 1. Rezoning from Rural District to Public District
2. Variance to allow reduced setbacks for the existing buildings and
existing parking lots
BACKGROUND
The rezoning and variance requests are proposed to address a housekeeping matter regarding the
City Code and prior approvals by the City of Eden Prairie. In summary, the proposed rezoning
and variance, if approved, will bring the existing school into compliance with the City Code and
with the Comprehensive Plan.
Prior to 2010, the City Code included public facilities as a permitted use in all zoning districts.
Public facilities were defined as “those facilities owned by any governmental unit and those
services relating to electric, gas, telephone and cablevision utilities.” Schools were allowed
under the term and definition of public facilities.
In 2010, the City Code was updated to eliminate the term public facilities and in its place public
infrastructure was listed as a permitted use in all zoning districts. The definition of “public
infrastructure” was limited to infrastructure and did not include schools. The adoption of the
new terminology and definition unintentionally resulted in schools becoming a non-conforming
use.
Rezoning:
Now that city staff is aware of this issue, staff is proposing to remedy the situation by adding
schools as a permitted use in the Public district and rezoning of certain school properties from
the Rural District to the Public District.
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of a text amendment to add
schools as a permitted use in the Public zoning district. The City Council is scheduled to review
that amendment at its August 16 City Council meeting.
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-10 – Hennepin Technical College
August 3, 2016
Page 2 of 3
The adopted Comprehensive Plan guides this property for Public use; therefore, the rezoning
request is in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan.
Variances:
Subsequently staff is recommending the Planning Commission approve the variance requests for
the existing conditions of the site.
No new development or expansions are being proposed with these requests therefore there are no
site plans to review. Existing conditions that require attention due to the proposed zoning change
include the existing setbacks of the buildings and parking lots. The recommended variance
requests would apply only to the existing conditions.
Hennepin Technical College – Existing Setbacks
(SE property – PID # 22-116-22-44-0001)
Staff has used Hennepin County Oblique Pictometry (aerial imagery) to obtain approximate
measurements of existing conditions. The existing buildings and parking lots cross over the three
lot lines of the properties that the Hennepin Technical College campus site occupies. This
essentially means that there is an existing setback of 0 feet from various lot lines. There are also
other reduced setbacks from the front, side, and rear lot lines of the properties that are not
depicted in the aerial image above. City Code currently requires a building setback of 50 ft. from
the front and rear lot lines and a minimum of 50 ft. from the side lot lines and a total combined
side yard setback of 150 ft. in the Public District. City Code also requires a parking lot setback of
50 ft. from the front lot line and a 10 ft. side and rear lot line setback from the lot lines of the
property in the Public District.
Staff Report – Rezoning & Variance # 2016-10 – Hennepin Technical College
August 3, 2016
Page 3 of 3
VARIANCE REQUEST
Variances may be granted when they are “in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the
ordinance and when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan.” Furthermore
variances may “be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are practical
difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. ‘Practical difficulties,’ as used in
connection with the granting of a variance, means that the property owner proposes to use the
property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the zoning ordinance; the plight of the
landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the landowner; and the
variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.”
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
The requested variance will not alter the existing use of the property as a school.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. The setbacks of the buildings and
parking lots are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1971 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The setbacks of the buildings and parking lots are existing conditions. No changes are
being proposed to the site.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variances will not change the character of the locality.
The setbacks of the buildings and parking lots are existing conditions. No changes are being
proposed to the site.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Recommend approval of the rezoning the property from Rural District to Public District.
2. Approve Final Order No. 2016-10 approving a Variance to allow reduced setbacks for the
existing buildings and existing parking lots for only the existing portions of the buildings
and parking lots that do not meet the building setback of 50 ft. from the front and rear lot
lines and a minimum of 50 ft. from the side lot lines and a total combined side yard
setback of 150 ft. in the Public District and for the parking lots that do not meet the 50 ft.
front lot line and the 10 ft. side and rear lot line setback from the lot lines of the property
in the Public District.
VARIANCE #2016-10
CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE
PLANNING COMMISSION
FINAL ORDER 2016-10
Applicant: City of Eden Prairie
ADDRESS: 13100 College View Drive, Eden Prairie, Minnesota
OTHER DESCRIPTION:
3 parcels including PID # 22-116-22-44-0001, PID # 22-116-22-43-0001, & PID # 22-116-22-42-0001
VARIANCE REQUEST:
Variance to allow the existing reduced setbacks for the existing buildings and existing parking lots
The Board of Adjustments and Appeals for the City of Eden Prairie at a regular meeting thereof duly
considered the above petition and after hearing and examining all of the evidence presented and the file therein
does hereby find and order as follows:
1. All procedural requirements necessary for the review of said variance have been met. (Yes X No N/A).
2. Variance 2016-10 is:
_____ granted
_____ modified
_____ denied
3. Findings and conditions are attached as Exhibit A.
4. This order shall be effective fifteen days after the decision of the Board of Adjustment and Appeals or on
August 8, 2016; however, this variance shall lapse and be of no effect unless the erection or alternatives
permitted shall occur within one (1) year of the effective date unless said period of time is extended
pursuant to the appropriate procedures prior to the expiration of one year from the effective date hereof.
5. All Board of Adjustments and Appeals actions are subject to City Council Review.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
N/A = Not Applicable BY:_____________________________________
Jon Stoltz - Chair
Date: August 8, 2016
EXHIBIT A – FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS
Variance Request #2016-10
Harmony with Purpose and Intent of Ordinance
The requested variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
The requested variance will not alter the existing use of the property as a school.
Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
The State law requires that variances be consistent with the comprehensive plan. The existing
use of the property is Public/Quasi-Public. No land use change is proposed. The variance would
be consistent with the comprehensive guide plan.
Reasonable Use of the Property
The requested variance is a reasonable use of the property. The setbacks of the buildings and
parking lots are existing conditions. No changes are being proposed to the site.
Circumstances Unique to the Property and not Created by Landowner
The property is unique for the following reasons:
The existing school was built approximately in 1971 and is currently located in the Rural zoning
district. The setbacks of the buildings and parking lots are existing conditions. No changes are
being proposed to the site.
Will not alter Character of Locality
The requested variances will not change the character of the locality.
The setbacks of the buildings and parking lots are existing conditions. No changes are being
proposed to the site.
CONDITIONS: This variance is approved contingent upon approval of the re-zoning of the
property to the Public zoning district.
SITE
Staring Lake Parkway
Columbine Road
College View Drive
Flying Cloud Drive¯
Area Location Map - Hennepin Technical CollegeSite Address: 13100 College View Drive, Eden Prairie, MN
0 670 1,340335 Feet
Staring LakeStaring Lake
Staring Lake Parkway
Columbine Road
Flying Cloud Drive
College View Drive
SITE
Streams
Principal Arterial
A Minor Arterial
B Minor Arterial
Major Collector
Minor Collector
City of Eden Prairie Land Use GuidePlan Map 2000-2030
¯
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.
M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialGuidePlan.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: April 18, 2008
DATE Revised 02-23-06
DATE Approved 03-19-03
DATE Revised 01-07-05
DATE Revised 11-07-05
DATE Revised 03-23-06
DATE Revised 06-23-06
DATE Revised 12-06-06
DATE Revised 03-01-07
DATE Revised 06-01-07
DATE Revised 10-01-07
DATE Revised 03-01-08
DATE Revised 03-01-09
Guide Plan Map - Hennepin Technical College13100 College View Drive, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Rural Residential 0.10 Units/Acre
Low Density Residential 0-2.5 Units/Acre
Low Density/Public/Open Space
Medium Density residential 2.5-10 Units/Acre
Medium Density Residential/Office
High Density Residential 10-40 Units/Acre
Airport
Office
Office/Industrial
Office/Public/Open Space
Industrial
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Regional Commercial
Town Center
Park/Open Space
Public/Quasi-Public
Golf Course
Church/ Cemetary
Open Water
Right-Of-Way
CityLimits 720 0 720360 Feet
SITE
Staring Lake Parkway
Columbine Road
College View Road
Flying Cloud Drive
QR61
QR61
S TA R IN G LA K E P K W Y
AZTEC DRCOLDSTREAMLNSUNNY
B
R
O
O
K
R
DPINEBLUFFCT
LAD IN OCIRFLYING CLOUD DRFLYING CLOUD DRCity of Eden Prairie Zoning Map
In case of discrepency related to a zoning classification on this zoning map, the Ordinance
and attached legal description on file at Eden Prairie City Center will prevail.
¯
Shoreland Management Classifications
100 - Year Floodplain
Natural Environment Waters
Recreational Development Waters
General Development Waters (Creeks Only)GD
NE
RD
Up dated through approved Ordinances #26-2008
Ordinance #33-2001 (BFI Addition) approved, but not shown on this map edition
Date: March 1, 2009
0 0.30.15
Miles
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warrant the accuracy nor the correctness
of the information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,
including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information it
contains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.
Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.M:\GIS\Users\Departments\CommDev\Themes\Shapes\Zoning and all other land use information\OfficialMaps\OfficialZoning.mxd
Map was Updated/Created: June 11, 2008
Zoning Map - Hennepin Technical College13100 College View DriveEden Prairie, MN 55347
Rural
R1-44 One Family- 44,000 sf. min.
R1-22 One Family-22,000 sf min.
R1-13.5 One Family-13,500 sf min.
R1-9.5 One Family-9,500 sf min.
RM-6.5 Multi-Family-6.7 U.P.A. max.
RM-2.5 Multi-Family-17.4 U.P.A. max.
Office
Neighborhood Commercial
Community Commercial
Highway Commercial
Regional Service Commercial
Regional Commercial
TC-C
TC-R
TC-MU
Industrial Park - 2 Acre Min,
Industrial Park - 5 Acre Min.
General Industrial - 5 Acre Min.
Public
Golf Course
Water
Right of Way
SITE
Flying Cloud Drive
Columbine Road
College View Drive
Staring Lake Parkway
¯
Aerial Map: Hennepin Technical CollegeAddress: 13100 College View DriveEden Prairie, Minnesota 55347
0 680 1,360340 Feet
1
PROJECT PROFILE – AUGUST 8, 2016
PLANNING COMMISSION – AUGUST 8, 2016
1. CEDAR RIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (2016-06) by City of Eden Prairie (ANGIE)
Location: 8905 Braxton Drive
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 23.19 acres.
• Variance to exceed the 30 foot maximum height requirement for the existing structure.
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted N/A
Date Complete N/A
120 Day Deadline N/A
Initial DRC review 06/30/16
Notice to Paper Date 07/21/16
Resident Notice Date 07/25/16
Meeting Date 08/08/16
Notice to Paper Date 00/00/16
Resident Notice Date 00/00/16
1st Meeting Date 00/00/16
2nd Meeting Date 00/00/16
2. OAK POINT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (2016-07) by City of Eden Prairie (ANGIE)
Location: 13400 Staring Lake Parkway
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 23.05 acres.
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements.
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted N/A
Date Complete N/A
120 Day Deadline N/A
Initial DRC review 06/30/16
Notice to Paper Date 07/21/16
Resident Notice Date 07/25/16
Meeting Date 08/08/16
Notice to Paper Date 00/00/16
Resident Notice Date 00/00/16
1st Meeting Date 00/00/16
2nd Meeting Date 00/00/16
3. EDEN LAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (2016-08) by City of Eden Prairie (ANGIE)
Location: 12000 Anderson Lake Parkway
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 23.46 acres.
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements.
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted N/A
Date Complete N/A
120 Day Deadline N/A
Initial DRC review 06/30/16
Notice to Paper Date 07/21/16
Resident Notice Date 07/25/16
Meeting Date 08/08/16
Notice to Paper Date 00/00/16
Resident Notice Date 00/00/16
1st Meeting Date 00/00/16
2nd Meeting Date 00/00/16
2
4. FOREST HILLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (2016-09) by City of Eden Prairie (ANGIE)
Location: 13708 Holly Road
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 28.31 acres.
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements.
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted N/A
Date Complete N/A
120 Day Deadline N/A
Initial DRC review 06/30/16
Notice to Paper Date 07/21/16
Resident Notice Date 07/25/16
Meeting Date 08/08/16
Notice to Paper Date 00/00/16
Resident Notice Date 00/00/16
1st Meeting Date 00/00/16
2nd Meeting Date 00/00/16
5. HENNEPIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE (2016-10) by City of Eden Prairie (ANGIE)
Location: 13100 College View Drive
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Public on 104.38 acres.
• Variance to address the existing setback requirements.
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted N/A
Date Complete N/A
120 Day Deadline N/A
Initial DRC review 06/30/16
Notice to Paper Date 07/21/16
Resident Notice Date 07/25/16
Meeting Date 08/08/16
Notice to Paper Date 00/00/16
Resident Notice Date 00/00/16
1st Meeting Date 00/00/16
2nd Meeting Date 00/00/16
CONSERVATION COMMISSION – AUGUST 9, 2016
HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION – AUGUST 15, 2016
1. TIME CHANGE & SITE TOUR -Meet at City Center, 6:30 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING – AUGUST 16, 2016
2. CODE AMENDMENT by City of Eden Prairie (JULIE)
Amend the City Code Chapter 11, Section 11.35 to add schools as a permitted use in the Public
Zoning District.
3
CITY COUNCIL CONSENT – AUGUST 16, 2016
1. DRAFT TOD ORDINANCE (JULIE)
Adoption of the draft TOD ordinance.
Contact: Julie Klima, 952-949-8489
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted N/A
Date Complete N/A
120 Day Deadline N/A
Initial DRC review N/A
Notice to Paper Date 6-24-15
Resident Notice Date N/A
Meeting Date 7-13-15
Notice to Paper Date 8-6-15
Resident Notice Date N/A
1st Meeting Date 8-18-15
2nd Meeting Date
2. CODE AMENDMENT RELATED TO LOADING FACILITIES, MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT, SITE LIGHTING AND TRASH AND RECYCLING ENCLOSURES (JULIE)
Public hearing to amend City Code Chapter 11, relating to loading facilities, mechanical equipment screening,
site lighting, and architectural requirements for trash and recycling enclosures.
Contact: Julie Klima, 952-949-8489
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted N/A
Date Complete N/A
120 Day Deadline N/A
Initial DRC review N/A
Notice to Paper Date 11/19/15
Resident Notice Date N/A
Meeting Date 12/07/15
Notice to Paper Date 00/00/15
Resident Notice Date N/A
1st Meeting Date 00/00/15
2nd Meeting Date
3. TELECOMMUNICATIONS File#2016-08L Lease by Sprint (c/o – John Deecher - Pyramid)
Contact John Deecher Office# 315-796-4481 (STEVE)
(Approved 00-00-16) Review time ?? Days. Incomplete as of 00-00-16
Location: 8950 Eden Prairie Road, Eden Prairie, MN
Request: Re-establishment of Lease. Property zoned Public.
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted 03/11/16
Date Complete 00/00/16
90 Day Deadline 06/09/16
Initial DRC review 03/17/16
Notice to Paper Date N/A
Resident Notice Date N/A
Meeting Date N.A
Notice to Paper Date N/A
Resident Notice Date N/A
1st Meeting Date 00/00/16
2nd Meeting Date N/A
4
4. WHITETAIL BLUFF (2016-05) by Premium Construction LLC (BETH)
Proposal for a two lot single family subdivision
Location: 10065 Eden Prairie Rd
Contact: Robert Schmidt – 612-760-9461
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to R1-13.5 on 2.48 acres
• Preliminary Plat of one lot into two lots on 2.48 acres
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted 05/13/16
Date Complete 06/14/16
120 Day Deadline 10/11/16
Initial DRC review 00/00/16
Notice to Paper Date 00/00/16
Resident Notice Date 00/00/16
Meeting Date 00/00/16
Notice to Paper Date
Resident Notice Date 06/27/16
1st Meeting Date 07/19/16
2nd Meeting Date
5. TEMPORAY HOUSING OPT-OUT by City of Eden Prairie (JULIE)
Ordinance
PLANNING COMMISSION – AUGUST 22, 2016
1. VARIANCE #2016-08 by SKD Architects, Inc. (ANGIE)
Location: 11000 West 78th Street
Contact: Steve Kleineman, 763-591-6115
Request for:
• Variance to exceed the 40 ft. maximum building height by _________feet.
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted 07/22/16
Date Complete 00/00/16
120 Day Deadline 00/00/16
Initial DRC review 07/28/16
Notice to Paper Date 8/11/16
Resident Notice Date 8/12/16
Meeting Date 8/22/16
Notice to Paper Date n/a
Resident Notice Date n/a
1st Meeting Date n/a
2nd Meeting Date n/a
2. PRAIRIE BLUFFS SENIOR LIVING (2015-17) by Albert Miller (JULIE/BETH)
Proposal to develop a 3 and 4 story, 138 unit senior housing and assisted living project
Location: 10217, 10220, 10240, 10280 Hennepin Town Road and two additional parcels
(PID 36 -116-22-11-0026 & 36-116-22-11-0003)
Contact: Albert Miller – 612-386-6260
Request for:
• Guide Plan Change from Low Density Residential and Office to High Density
Residential on 4.58 acres.
• Planned Unit Development Concept Review on 4.58 acres
• Planned Unit Development District Review with waivers on 4.58 acres
• Zoning District Change from Rural and Office to RM-2.5 on 4.58 acres
5
• Site Plan Review on 4.58 acres
• Preliminary Plat of six lots into one lot and one outlot on 4.58 acres
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted 07/13/16
Date Complete
120 Day Deadline
Initial DRC review 07/28/16
Notice to Paper Date 11/19/15
Resident Notice Date 11/20/15
Meeting Date 12/07/15
Notice to Paper Date
Resident Notice Date
1st Meeting Date
2nd Meeting Date
CITY COUNCIL CONSENT – SEPTEMBER 6, 2016
1. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT by City of Eden Prairie (JULIE)
Amend the Comprehensive Plan relating to development densities and process for medium & high
density residential developments.
IN BUT NOT SCHEDULED
1. CHICK-FIL-A (2016-02) by Oppidan Investment Company (JULIE)
Proposal for free standing restaurant with drive thru
Location: 8460 Franlo Road
Contact: Drew Johnson, 952-540-4180
Request for:
• Zoning District Change from Rural to Reg-Com-Serv on 2.58 acres
• Preliminary Plat of 3 lots into 2 lots on 2.58 acres
• Site Plan Review on 2.58 acres
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted 02/12/16
Date Complete 00/00/00
120 Day Deadline 00/00/00
Initial DRC review 00/00/00
Notice to Paper Date 00/00/00
Resident Notice Date 00/00/00
Meeting Date 00/00/00
Notice to Paper Date 00/00/00
Resident Notice Date 00/00/00
1st Meeting Date 00/00/00
2nd Meeting Date 00/00/00
2. SOUTHWEST STATION PUD AMENDMENT (2015-23) by SW Metro Transit Commission
(JULIE)
Proposal for additional parking structure at southwest station
Contact: Julie Klima, 952-949-8489
Request for:
• Planned Unit Development District Review with waivers on 11.38 acres
• Zoning District Amendment within the Commercial Regional Service Zoning District on
6
11.38 acres
• Site Plan Review on 11.38 acres
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted 00/00/15
Date Complete 00/00/15
120 Day Deadline 00/00/15
Initial DRC review 00/00/15
Notice to Paper Date 11/19/15
Resident Notice Date 11/20/15
Meeting Date 12/07/15
Notice to Paper Date 12/17/15
Resident Notice Date 12/18/15
1st Meeting Date 01/05/16
2nd Meeting Date
3. MARTIN BLU TRAIL (2015-21) by Eden Prairie Development, LLC (JULIE)
Proposal for relocation of a trail.
Location: 14301 Martin Drive
Contact: Rob Bader, 952-540-8643
Request to:
• Amend Development Agreement to reflect revised trail location within the Martin Blu
project
Application Info Planning Commission City Council
Date Submitted 10/28/15
Date Complete 10/28/15
120 Day Deadline 06/23/16
Initial DRC review 11/05/15
Notice to Paper Date 11/19/15
Resident Notice Date 11/20/15
Meeting Date 12/07/15
Notice to Paper Date 12/17/15
Resident Notice Date 12/18/15
1st Meeting Date 01/05/16
2nd Meeting Date
APPROVED VARIANCES
TELECOMMUNICATION PROJECTS