Planning Commission - 08/28/1978 AGENDA
Eden Prairie Planning Commission
Monday, August 28. 1978
7:30 PH, City Hall
C"ISSIOti MEMBERSS Chairman Rod Sundstroi% Liz. Retterath, Matthew
Levitt, Richard Lyincty- v l l iam . Bearman
Paul Redpath, Oke Martinson
7:30 I . APPROVAL OF AGENDA
7:35 II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
. A. Minutes of July 24, 1978
B. Minutes of August 14, 1978
7:45 IIl . METERS REPORTS
IV. REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
7:50 A. Centex Homes Midwest Inc. , request to rezone- from-Rural to
W13. 9 87. 4 acres and pre-1 iminary plat approval ' of 175 lots
on 87.4 acres. Located north of Staring Lake and east, of .,
Mitchell Road. A Public Hearing. _
8:20 B. Menard's Inc. request to prel imi nary. plat 9 tots on approx i-
Rtely 75 acres and rezone 13 acres from Rural tQ. C-Regional
Service for a 4enard 's Lumber Store. Site is located in north-
west quadrant of T.H. 5 and I-494. A Public .Kearing.
9:00 C. %ys 11 American Family Insurance site. Request by Rauenhorst
oC rper•ation for rezoning from RU to OFFICE for .49 acre
for additional -parkirtg,-ta serve the Insurance. Bldg, and concept,_
approval for future ramp parking. Lot combination/division
application to be processed by City Engineer. .49 acre rezoning
is a strip east of present American Family Insurance Building,
45' x 470' .
9:30 Y. PET i T IONS AND RECOWENDAT I ONS
q.-35 Yi. OLD BUSINESS
9:43 V11. NIEW BUS 1 NESS
9:30 Vi i i . PLANIIER' RE�a�
11j:00 11. ENT
MINUTES
EDEN PRAIRIE PLANNING C0141 I SS I ON
•� -approved
Monday, August 28, 1978 7:30 PM City Hall
COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Rod Sundstrom, Bill Bearman,
Liz Retterath, Richard Lynch, Matthew
Levitt, Oke Martinson, and Paul Redpath
STAFF PRESENT: Chris Enger, Planning Director; Donna
Stanley, Planning Secretary
Invocation - Pledge of Allegiance - Roll Call
I. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: Bearman roved to approve agenda as published, seconded
by Martinson. Motion carries: unanimously.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Minutes of July 24, 1978
These additional corrections were requested to be made:
Pg. 1 , para . 1 , correct paragraph to read "Bluffs west Additicn
item, and Public Hearing on Transportation Alternatives for the
northwest corner of T.H. 5 and Co. Rd. 4 item were interchanged
or, the agenda. "
Pg. 3, para. 3, delete paragraph.
Pg. 3, para. 5, insert "type" between "Tom Thumb" and "dry cleaners" .
Pg. 4, para. 5s correct sent. 3 to read "take Trail Estates" .
Pg. 5, para.6, add "east/west" before "link" .
Pg. 6, para . 4, add "reiterated" after "He" in sent. 4.
MOTION: Bearman moved to approve minutes of July 24, 1978 meeting
as published and amended, seconded by Retterath. Motion carried
unanimously.
B. MirUites of August 14, 1978
.4011M Kedpath moved acceptance of the Minutes of August 14 -
1978 meeting as published, seconded by Bearman. Motion carried,
with Retterath and Levitt abstaining.
III . MEMBERS REPORTS
None. _
approved
Planning Commission Minutes - 2 - :Monday, August 28 , 1978
Ill. REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Centex Hanes Midwest, Inc. , request to rezone from Rural
to Rl -13.5, 87.4 acr.es and preliminary plat. approval of
175 lets on 57.4 acr,:s. Located north of Staring Lake and
east of Mitchell Road. A Public Hearing.
Mr. Mike Gair, Landscape Architect for Centex Homes Midwest
Inc. , presented the revised plan and outlined the changes
made from the original proposal of 205 lots to 175 lots,
with 2.0 units per acre. He pointed out areas good for
development and also located the street design of the major
road, loops , and cul -de-sac pattern. He explained that
Centex has responded to the concerns of the neighbors re-
garding water drainage by completely eliminating the former
drainage plan and are carrying the drainage in a pipe around
the south end of the development, rather than south across
adjacent properties.
Mr. F- 1.Hagen, Westwood Planning and Engineering, responding
to action of previous meeting, explained that drainage would
be broughtout to Mitchell Road. Interim holding ponds in the
northern portion of the project would delay run-off and cut
down on nutrients. He felt that the City and watershed
District requirements could be met fully by Centex.
Martinson asked about item 6 of the engineering report , re-
vising of the grading plan to extend lots back into Outl of A
: and move pond to rear of lots. Hagen agreed to comply with
this point.
Martinson asked whether lots are planned high enough to
accomodate heavy rains, such as the ones we've just had.
Hagen explained that the lots would be filled to be higher
- than the 10n year stcrm line and that the rain would go down
the street or through the swales rather than into any of the
lots.
Levitt asked what the purpose of Outlot A was. Hagen ex-
plained that it was reserved in case Anderson Lakes Parkway
would be run through that section. According to the Engineering
= Department, it appears that the road will not affect this plat.
Mr. Tim Eller, from Centex , explained that Centex was asking_
for a, waiver from the minimum lot frontages for 28 luts for
smaller houses: in oroer to keep them from being out of pro-
portion. He explained further that no variances would be
sought for sideyard setbacks, and the Ordinance is met in all
other respects. He stated that We had read and agreed With_
the Engineering report of 8J24 7d and Staff report of 811-,5/78
wiO the following comments to the Planning Staff report- recc mends-
tions:
approved
Planning Commission Minutes - 3 - August 28, 1978
1 . Centex has met With the Engineering Department and resolved
no. 5 of the Planning Staff report.
2. Centex will provide adequate bermi ng a i ong lots 14, 15 and
16, h:jt net the lots 17, 18 and 19 of blo►:k 47 as per no. 6
of staff recommendation, because there is a steep topographic
change which snakes berming unnecessary.
3. There will possibly not be the need for Outlot A as explained
in no. 7 of Planning Staff recommendations, because of the
Engineering Department's feeling that the Parkway can be
better located off of the site.
4. Regarding point no. 10, all but one existing house type will
fit on the lots adjacent to the conservancy zone.
5. Ellers requested that no. 11 of the Planning Report read
the same as no. 2 of the Engineering Report.
Width of lots was discussed, and Enaer explained that the Staff has
reviewed the proposal , and the street layout and the general tryout
proposal is similar to the past proposal of July . He explained that
the lots have been reduced, and the plat conforms with the Ordinance,
Comprehensive Guide Plan, 1S77 proposed Guide Plan Draft,, and with the
Red Rock Sector Study.
Redpath questioned! the reason for terming. The Planner explained the.
it is iised as one method of transition f;omm one zone to another He
also explained that when a proposal is in the conservancy Zone of
Purgatory Creek%scenic easements should be given to the City to protect
the vegetation and slopes against building encroachment and requested
this to replace no. 10 of Staff recoae+endation.
Mr. John Jenkins , 13800 Research Road, adjacent property omer, expressed
concern that water from the three low lots adjacent to his property would
run into his driveways and requested that these lots be graded may from
his house.
Mr. L. J. Fletcher, 14000 Research Road, was also concerned about
drainage through lots 3-8 in Section 4, explaining that there is a
standpipe, end a drain which run onto his land. Hagen explained the
new drainage plan in response to Fletcher' s concern. Fletcher also
felt there was no Justification for lots 6 and 8 being smell fn the
same area, and suggested that these lots be wider.
MOT ION f 1
�ed'patn moved to close the Public Hearing on Centex ftfts Midwest Inc.
revised preliminary plat of 175 lots on 87.4 *cres, seconded by
Retterath. Motion carried 7-0-0,
approved
Minutes - Planning Commission - 4 - Monday, August 28, 1978
MOTION #2
w•
Redpath moved to recommend to the City Council approval of the
rezoning from Rural to R1 -13. 5 based on the plan dated 8;15/78, Staff
report dated 8/16/78, and revised Engineering Staff report of 8/24 A
with modifications 1-5 as ' listed -on M. 3-of the Minutes of 3/28/78. Retterath
seconded, motion carried 7-0-0.
MOTION #3
Redpath moved to recommend to the City Council approval of the Centex
preliminary play dated 8/15/78 for 175 sinSle family lots , the Staff
report of 8/16/78, and revised Engineerina Staff report dated 8/24/78
with modifications 1-5 ds listed on pg. 3 of the- Minutes of 8/28/78.
Retterath seconded , Motiun carried 7-0-0.
B. Menard' s, Inc. request to preliminary plat 5 lots on approximately
75 dcres and rezone 13 acres from Rural to C-Regional Service for a
Menard' s lumber Store. Site is located in northwest quadrant of T.N. 5
and I-494. A Public Hearing.
Mr. Marvin Pachaska, representing Menards , presented the request, ex-
plaining the reasons why they felt this was a good location for their
project.
Mr. Dan Johnson, Suburban Engineering, explained the grading aspects of
the plan arij pointeiout tree stands and other vegetation present on the
site. He explained the plans for the earth work involved to screen the
proposed outside storage area .
The Planner stated that the Planning Staff has reviewed the proposal and
expressed concerns that the screening would not be complete enough to
warrant waiving Ordinance 135. He explained that there was no question
that a project such as this was important and serves a regional need,
however he expressed concern that the proposal will set a tone for develop-
ment of the MCA which will be impacted by outside storage. He agreed :t
was a clean use and that Menards did have a good reputation for a well
run operation, but he explained that the Planning Staff is concerned that
varying to allow- outside storage in this lower area will have impact on
the quality of the Major Center Area.
Retterath asked whether this will be retail scores. Pachaska responded
affirmative, explaining that there will be 12 ,000 sq. feet of smaller
retail stores.
Sundstrom questioned the proposed future Ring Route. The Planner responded
that an overpass was anticipated over Highway 5 and the Ring route connec-
tion to the south. Sundstrom pointed out the similarity of problems in
screening between this project and that of the Water Products Co. on T.H. 5.
Levitt was unclear what the relationship of Valley View Road to this site
and how Valley View Road is supposed to be upgraded in the future. Enger
explained that according to the MCA PUD and long rangetransportation plans of
the City, Valley View Road is to be extended south of its existing alignment
and the Ring Road will "T" into it. Mitchell Road will then continue and
connect with extended Baker Road. At that time, existing Valley View Road
past Topview would be cul -de-saced. He explained further that the City
Council is trying to helpwith road systems through this transportation proposal .
i
I -
approved
Plunr.ing Commission Minutes - 5 - Monday, August 28, 1978
n!
Levitt felt that this particulates type of development on this site would
have a negative impact on the quality of future development. He inquired
w.!'.!* +yYe c` Uscs acre C0111Nai iuiC and wily trI is Nari,icu iar use was con-
sidEred as having a negative impact. The Planner responded that there
are many uses that could be developed in this area ; a high quality motel
on top of the hill , restaurant, or corporate headquarters , etc . , but
was fairly certain they would not care to locate near an area with out-
side storage, therefore making it i less desirable. Levitt asked whether
since Menards is only comtemplating using 13 acres of the site, wouldn 't
this be their problem? (Marketability vs. desirability)
Martinson inquired what the bng range plans for this ;ite were. Pachaska
responded that they will look to dispose of the additional land for some-
one else to develop.
Redpath spoke to the burden of the property owners in this area , but
expressed disappointment that Menards had picked this site for their
project.
Mr. Bob .Morehouse, Eden Prairie Realtor from Watertown , disagreed
with the P',:nner ' s. concern that the proje:.t would have a negative impact
on surrounding property. He expressed support for the Menard project,
explaining that lie was happy that Menards want to take on this development,
Headded that he had spoken to several corporate headquarter sources and
they had no objection to locating next to a clean opeMstion such as Menards.
The Planner stated that the Planning Department is not making statements
concerning the marketability of the site, but that outside storage will
have an effect on the type of proposals that may be received for this
area. (such as 'boat marina sales)
Morehousefelt that precedence has already been set for outside storage
by Minnesota Tree and Menards is not asking for something that is not
already there.
Sundstrom inquired whether the i•linnesota Tree project had come before
this Commission. The Planner responded that Minnesota Tree was "grand-
fathered" in before the adoption of the 1968 Guide Plan and was an interim
use.
Mr. W. Carpenter, owner of the Minnesota Tree site, commented that he
would very much like to see his sitE developed , explaining that his site
was transitional and that he would like to sell it. He felt the proposed
Menard' s site should have significant screening from the west, and that
it should be in the form of a fence. Re also questioned whether the
proposed service road had been reviewed by the State Highway Department.
Mr.Dan McGraw, landowner, stated that ne and Mr. Teman had held this
.land for eleven years and would like a nigh quality type use, and feels
that Menards is a good type of project and expressed favor for the approval
of the project.
T
approved
Minutes-Planning Commission - 5 - Monday, Aug. 28, 1978
w
Mr. Bob McDonald , Realtor, commented they own property south of T.H. 5
and they want to build high rise office building. They do not object
to ip t is Nruject and r"e i t there was & need for this type of facility.
Redpath expressed a concern to look at a Menard site to see what it
was like.
MOTION :
Redpath moved to continue Menard iilc. request for preliminary platting of
nine lots on approximately 75 acres and rezoning thirteen acres from Rural
to C-Regional Service for a Menard' s Lumber Store to September 19, 1978.
Bearman secondej for a point of discussion.
nISCUSSION
Bearman requested photos of the site. The Planner commented that the
topography of the site will change, and there is a great deal of vegetation
that will make it difficult to make a before and after comparison.
Lynch commented that he was concerned with construction of the bui %ing,
Rnd asked wnether Menards would not consider re-thinking some of the points
of the Staff report.
Redpath requested that Menards re-consider poi►r�s nos. 1 and 3 of the Staff
report of 8122178.
Sundstrom requested also that Menards re-think point no. 5, and extend drawings
to show tree stands. The Planner noted that all of the tree stands would be
eliminated according to Menards present grading plan.
Levitt pointed out that if these 13 acres were zoned for retail use, with
out-;de storage , the rest of the site may came before the Commission for
like uses. The Commission should consider whether this is the use most
appropriate in this area. He pointed out that there would be little control over
the use on the remaining area , and Menard 's interest will be to sell to other
developers.
Lynch commented that this area. is planned as downtown Eden Prairie.
Pachaska responded that they have platted additional property as outlots
and they will have to come before the Commiission for additional action.
Levitt questioned whether it was the intention of Menards to come back with
some modifications to original proposal . Pachasky responded affirmative.
The Planner commented that the concerns of the Staff report had been dis-
cussed several times with Menards and he d;c, not expect to see any significant
changes on the site. He asked the Commission how they saw the NW area
developing. He pointed out that the outside storage variance would continue .
as long as the zoning.
Lynch felt that a little imagination in screening the outside storage could
be possible.
approved
Minutes - Planning Commission - 7 - Monday, August 28, 1978
Beaman requested that t e Planner look into whether granting the
q fl 9 9
variance for outside storaoe would 1 eaa l l v spt a prPrPr anima.
Pachaska agreed to change exterior building material if so desired
by the Commission.
Sundstrom inquired what the purpose of the Ordinance requirement was
for masonry and brick exterior. The Planner respondea that it enabled
high quality design and longevity in the construction of the building
itself.
VOTE: Motion carried 7-0-0.
C. Opus II , American Family Insurance site. Request by Rauenhorst
Corporation for rezoning from Rural to Office for .49 acres for
additional parking to serve the Insurance Bldg. and concept approval
for future ramp parking. Lot combination/division application to be
processed by City Engineer. .49 acre rezoning is a strip east of
present American Family Insurance Building, 45' x 4701
.
Mr. Bob Worthington, Rauenhorst Corporation, presented the background
of the proposal , and outlined the present requests for rezoning of
.49 acres for additional parking, the division of the eastern lot
(lot 1 , block l ) in Opus II be combined with lot 2, block 1 , and
requested concept approval from the City for a parking ramp proposed
for the future.
The Planner clarified the point on the division of the land, explaining
there are provisions under Ordinance 161 for an administrative land
division, which will allow the City to split one parcel of land into
two, when there are no roads concerned or landowners do not object.
He explained further that it is meant to expediate situations like this
when there does not seem to be conflicting opinions by surrounding land
owners . He Explained the parking ramp is in conformance with i.x i ;:i ng
rezoning agreement and it was desirable. The Planner referred to previous
concerns by the Planning Commission with the treatment of the wooded slope,
although the present building is well done, and he suggested the proponent
use the same sensitive treatment in protection of the slope and woods for
additional building.
Sundstroam inquired whether the parking eawsp was included in the original
plan. The Planner responded that provisions for additional parking were
included in the original PUD agreement upon approval of the City.
MOTION #1
ire path moved to recommend the lot division/combination be proicessed
administratively prior to any action on rezoning, seconded by Retterath.
Motion carried 7-0-0.
MOTION #2
e path moved to ,i.pprove rezoning of .49 acres from Rural to Office as
per request dated August 16, 1978 and the Staff report of August 23, 1978,
seconded by�Retterath. Motion carried 7-0-0.
i1
approved
MINUTES - Planning Commission - 8- Monday, August 28, 1978
MOTION #3
Redpath moved to recommend approval to the City Council of the future
parking ramp as per the material dated 8/16/78 subject to future sub-
mission and approval and report dated 8/23/78, seconded by Retterath.
Motion carried 7-0-0.
V. PETITIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS - None
VI. OLD BUSINESS
Sundstram requested the status of the Condon Naegale :::fin recently
constructed.
VII. NEW BUSINESS - None
VIII . PLANNER'S REPORT
Enger informed Commission of the Shorel and Management Act presently
being considered by the Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources
Commission which will be presented to the Planning Commission in
the near future, and may have significant impact on development in
Eden Prairie.
IX. ADJOLIRNM�NT
MOTION: Redpath moved to adjourn at 10:30 PM, seconded by Bearman.
Notion carried unanimously.