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070213 PlanningCity of New Hope Meeting Date: July 2, 2013 Report Date: June 19, 2013 Planning Case: 13 -03 Petitioner: City of New Hope Request: Text Amendment Related to Bicycle Parking 1. Request On March 20, 2013, the Codes and Standards Committee reviewed a text amendment proposal related bicycle parking regulations. During the adoption of the City Center Development District, staff introduced the idea of requiring a minimum amount of bicycle parking for each building. It was suggested at the Planning Commission meeting that staff should look into the idea of requiring these regulations throughout all zoning districts, and not just the City Center District. The following table outlines the requirements for bicycle parking, as reflected in the City Center District: Hennepin County is conducting a large initiative related to bicycle use, parking, and standards set forth to ensure good practices related to where bicycle parking racks should be located, the setbacks from other racks and buildings, and the design of the racks. Staff has taken these suggested standards into consideration with the proposed text amendment. At the March Codes and Standards meeting, the committee generally liked the idea of requiring bicycle parking for businesses located in the commercial districts, but was hesitant to require each business to provide such parking by a given date. Instead the city's Planning Consultant, Al Brixius, suggested that the city incorporate the bicycle parking requirement through the Site Plan Review process as part of the Design Guidelines approval by the city. This way, whenever a business needed a site plan review for an addition, new building, etc., the city would have the authority to require bicycle parking in a manner that was consistent with the best practices related to placement of such parking in relation to the building, setbacks, etc. City staff is requesting that the Planning Commission review and offer comment on the proposed changes to the bicycle parking ordinance. The comments will then be forwarded to the City Council for consideration. BUILDING AREA Up to 40,000 40,001 — 80,000 80,0001 or More Square Feet Square Feet Square Feet Bicycle Parking/ 1 bicycle space 1 bicycle space 1 bicycle space Automobile Parking per 20 automobile per 30 automobile per 40 automobile Ratio parking stalls parking stalls parking stalls Hennepin County is conducting a large initiative related to bicycle use, parking, and standards set forth to ensure good practices related to where bicycle parking racks should be located, the setbacks from other racks and buildings, and the design of the racks. Staff has taken these suggested standards into consideration with the proposed text amendment. At the March Codes and Standards meeting, the committee generally liked the idea of requiring bicycle parking for businesses located in the commercial districts, but was hesitant to require each business to provide such parking by a given date. Instead the city's Planning Consultant, Al Brixius, suggested that the city incorporate the bicycle parking requirement through the Site Plan Review process as part of the Design Guidelines approval by the city. This way, whenever a business needed a site plan review for an addition, new building, etc., the city would have the authority to require bicycle parking in a manner that was consistent with the best practices related to placement of such parking in relation to the building, setbacks, etc. City staff is requesting that the Planning Commission review and offer comment on the proposed changes to the bicycle parking ordinance. The comments will then be forwarded to the City Council for consideration. II. Recommendation Staff recommends approval Attachments • Draft ordinance • Planning Report NORTHWEST ASSOCIATED 4800 Olson Memorial Highway, Suite 202, Golden Valley, MN 55422 Telephone: 763.231.2555 Facsimile: 763.231.2561 planners @nacplanning.com TO: Curtis Jacobsen / Jeff Sargent FROM: Alan Brixius DATE: April 24, 2013 RE: New Hope — Bicycle Parking Requirements FILE NO: 131.00 —13-05 In conjunction with the New Hope TOD /City Center Study, bicycle parking has been required to promote bicycling as an alternative mode of transportation. Through the City Center zoning discussions, it was suggested that some accommodation for bicycle parking should be considered City -wide within the New Hope commercial districts. The establishment of a bicycle parking standard within the commercial areas is intended to accomplish the following objectives: Promote bicycling as an alternative transportation mode. 2. Promote active and healthy living 3. Provide for safe bicycle accommodation within commercial site planning. 4. Identify bicycle parking as a design standard to insure it is considered and planned for in commercial sites. At the Codes and Standards meeting, concern was expressed that the bicycle parking standards must be reasonable and practical to apply. The attached ordinance proposes the following: 1. The bicycle parking requirements will only be applicable to commercial land uses in the City's business zoning districts. Staff and Planning Commission should discuss if the standards should also be extended to other land uses, i.e., churches, schools, apartment buildings, or industrial land uses. 2. The bicycle parking quantities were taken from the newly established CC Zoning District. The number of bicycle parking spaces is based on the size of the building being served. The following table illustrates the required bicycle parking required for the various building sizes: Most of New Hope's freestanding commercial buildings will fall below the 40,000 square foot building size. The larger buildings will typically relate to multiple tenant shopping centers that will have space and need of bicycle parking. 3. The ordinance requires bicycle parking spaces provided by bicycle racks. 4. The placement of bicycle parking shall not interfere with other on -site vehicles or pedestrian traffic. The ordinance is offered for your review and further modification. c: Steve Sondrall 2 BUILDING AREA 10,000 SF 40,000 SF 80,000 SF 1 120,000 SF Required Parking 45 stalls 180 stalls 360 stalLs= 540 stalls Required Bicycle Parking 2 spaces 9 s aces 12 spaces 1 14 spaces Most of New Hope's freestanding commercial buildings will fall below the 40,000 square foot building size. The larger buildings will typically relate to multiple tenant shopping centers that will have space and need of bicycle parking. 3. The ordinance requires bicycle parking spaces provided by bicycle racks. 4. The placement of bicycle parking shall not interfere with other on -site vehicles or pedestrian traffic. The ordinance is offered for your review and further modification. c: Steve Sondrall 2 ORDINANCE NO. 13- DRAFT 4124113 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 4- 3(e)(14) OF THE NEW HOPE CITY CODE ESTABLISHING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR BICYCLE PARKING IN AL COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICTS Section 1. Section 4- 3(e)(14) of the New Hope City Code is hereby amended to add the following language: (14) Bicycle parking. Bicycle parking shall be required for all commercial land uses within the R -O, R -B, LB, and CB Zoning Districts meeting the following standards: a. Required bicycle parking. The following minimum on -site bicycle parking spaces shall be provided: b. Bicycle parking shall consist of bicycle racks capable of accommodating the required number of bicycle parking spaces. C. Bicycle parking shall be integrated into the site design and shall be located so as to not interfere with on -site vehicle or pedestrian traffic movements, required automobile parking, or on -site loading. Section 2. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be effective upon passage and publication. BUILDING AREA Up to 40,000 40,001 — 80,000 80,0001 or More Square Feet Square Feet Square Feet Bicycle Parking/ 1 bicycle space 1 bicycle space 1 bicycle space Automobile Parking per 20 automobile per 30 automobile per 40 automobile Ratio parking stalls parking stalls parking stalls b. Bicycle parking shall consist of bicycle racks capable of accommodating the required number of bicycle parking spaces. C. Bicycle parking shall be integrated into the site design and shall be located so as to not interfere with on -site vehicle or pedestrian traffic movements, required automobile parking, or on -site loading. Section 2. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be effective upon passage and publication. ADOPTED by the New Hope City Council this day of 2013. Kathi Hemken, Mayor ATTEST: Valerie Leone, City Clerk Memorandum To: Planning Commission Curtis Jacobsen, CD Director Cc: Al Brixius, Planning Consultant From: Jeff Sargent, CD Specialist Date: June 19, 2013 Subject: Codes and Standards Meeting Items Rib- Staff would like to take this opportunity to discuss items for consideration that have been or will be brought in front of the Codes and Standards Committee for review. The responsibility of the Codes and Standards Committee is to review potential text amendments and zoning changes prior to review by the Planning Commission. Staff has recently produced a list of potential code changes to bring to the Codes and Standards Committee and would like to review this list and update the Planning Commission on its status. 1. Amend the ordinance to define specialty and training schools. This issue was brought to the surface when a charter school requested to locate in the city. Additionally, since all charter schools need to have a sponsor, would a charter school be allowed if District 281 was their sponsor? Status Staff has not yet brought this issue to the Codes and Standards Committee. 2. Solar Energy. There should be discussion to consider if the city should regulate solar energy installations, both residentially and commercially. Or, should the consideration be given to the regulation of all alternative energy sources? Status Staff has not yet brought this issue to the Codes and Standards Committee. 3. Driveways. Should there be consideration of an amendment to require and define hard surfaces for the purpose of driveway installation? Compacted gravel is considered a hard surface, but is it a dust -free surface? Recently, the city was 1 faced with someone removing a bad bituminous driveway and replacing it with gravel. Status Staff brought this to the Codes and Standards meeting on April 10, 2013, for their consideration. The Committee determined some ordinance changes would be appropriate to require a paved hard surface for all driveways between the street and the single family home or garage. A draft ordinance has been written and will be presented to the Planning Commission in the near future. 4. Smart boxes /PODS. Should the city consider regulating smart boxes/PODS? A few of these temporary storage units have been popping up around the city. Should they be restricted to a particular location, have time limits on their placement and /or require permits? Status Staff brought this to the Codes and Standards meeting on March 14, 2013. The Committee determined that there wasn't a prevalent enough disturbance regarding the use of these storage units to warrant an ordinance amendment to regulate them. The Committee's suggestion was to keep an eye on the use of these types of units to determine whether future action is needed. 5. Parking Standards. As part of our Active Living participation, a parking study was conducted by NAC, comparing New Hope's parking standards to those of neighboring communities. Suggestions for some amendments have been made by NAC in order for New Hope to have more efficient parking standards. Status Staff brought this to the Code and Standards meeting on March 14, 2013. The Committee determined that New Hope's parking standards did not exceed, and were no more limiting than any parking standard for any neighboring city that NAC compared New Hope with. The Committee agreed that the city's parking standards were adequate and recommended that no further action was necessary. 6. Bicycle Parking. The city recently incorporated bike parking standards in the new City Center District. At the time of approval, it was suggested that these same regulations be applied city -wide. Status Staff brought this to the Codes and Standards meeting on March 14, 2013. The Committee determined that bicycle parking standards were needed and recommended these changes be brought to the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission will hear these proposed changes at the July 2, 2013 meeting. 2 CITY OF NEW HOPE 4401 XYLON AVENUE NORTH NEW HOPE, HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA 55428 PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES March 5, 2013 City Hall, 7:00 p.m. CALL TO ORDER The New Hope Planning Commission met in regular session pursuant to due call and notice thereof; Chair Houle called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. OATH OF OFFICE The oath of office was administered by Director of Community Development Curtis Jacobsen for Planning Commissioner Mikel Dumonceaux and he was welcomed to the Commission. ROLL CALL Present: Jim Brinkman, Mikel Dumonceaux, Jeff Houle, Sandra Hunten, Roger Landy, Christopher McKenzie, Tom Schmidt, Steve Svendsen Absent: Ranjan Nirgude Also Present: Curtis Jacobsen, Director of Community Development, Steve Sondrall, City Attorney, Alan Brixius, Planning Consultant, Jeff Sargent, Community Development Specialist, Pamela Sylvester, Recording Secretary ELECTION OF Chair Houle opened the floor for nominations for 2013 officers. OFFICERS Commissioner Brinkman nominated Commissioner Svendsen for chair, Commissioner Schmidt for vice chair, and Commissioner McKenzie for third officer. Seconded by Commissioner Landy. All voted in favor. Motion carried. CONSENT BUSINESS There was no Consent Business on the agenda. PUBLIC HEARING Planning Case 13-01 Chair Svendsen introduced Item 4.1, discussion regarding a conditional use Item 4.1 permit /planned unit development, site and building plan review, and comprehensive sign plan, 2717 Winnetka Avenue North, Daniel Engelsma, petitioner. Mr. Jeff Sargent, community development specialist, stated that the applicant was requesting a conditional use permit amendment for outdoor storage, planned unit development for an addition to Midland Shopping Center and site plan review for a facelift to the entire shopping center. The site is located in a CB, Community Business, zoning district at the northeast quadrant of Winnetka Avenue North and Medicine Lake Road. It is surrounded by commercial properties to the east, residential to the north and west and the city of Golden Valley to the south. The total site contains 280,696 square feet or 6.44 acres. The existing building contains approximately 50,500 square feet and the proposed addition would add 8,695 square feet. The property is located in planning district 16, and the Comprehensive Plan identified the back of the shopping center as a compatibility and aesthetic issue with the abutting residential properties. Mr. Sargent explained that Arc's Value Village requested an addition to the northwest portion of the shopping center to expand its sales floor and add a new production room. The expansion is addressed under the planned unit development section of the city's zoning code due to the fact that shopping centers are considered as having more than one principal building. Arc's Value Village also requested an amendment to the existing CUP to increase the number of semi trailers for outside storage from one to four. The storage of one trailer was approved in 1997. Midland Shopping Center also requested a site plan review to approve a new fagade on the entire building. The expansion meets the setback requirements as set forth in the zoning code. The expansion and proposed service lane extends into the existing paved driveway, which narrows the driveway at the northwest- corner of the site. The proposed expansion would lie 28 feet from the edge of the pavement and would impact traffic circulation. The applicant proposes a 20 -foot wide, one- way drive aisle along the north side of the site, an eight -foot wide drop off area for vehicles, elimination of four parking stalls on the north property line, and moving the dumpster for A+ Coin Laundry. A 20 -foot drive aisle would be the minimum allowed for emergency vehicles, but would not allow proper access if the drive lane was being utilized. The one -way traffic route would affect the entire shopping center's traffic circulation. Mr. Sargent stated that staff was concerned that the proposed drive aisle was not adequately sized for emergency vehicles to pass through in the event of a large snowfall or when vehicles parked near the door for dropping off merchandise. Staff recommended that the drop off lane width be increased from eight feet to 12 feet to accommodate door swing. Mr. Brixius added that the current proposal indicated 28 feet from the edge of the pavement to the northwest corner of the building. The building's doors would swing in to reduce encroachment on the drive lane. The landing by the door would be three feet wide and with the drop -off lane would be eight feet wide. Mr. Sargent stated that reducing the drive aisle from its current two -way flow to a one -way route posed concern by changing the circulation through the property. Commissioner Schmidt interjected that snow be removed from the property in this area. As part of the shopping center fagade remodel, the applicant proposed to upgrade the sidewalk in front of the stores to better accommodate handicap access. The proposed addition would increase the floor area of the shopping center to 59,277 square feet. Total parking stalls required would be 404 stalls and 444 are being provided. The zoning code allows for a reduction of up to 50 percent where shared parking may be supplied by primary daytime uses. Several parking spaces would be eliminated along the north and west property lines to provide adequate drive aisle widths and turning radii for semi traffic at the rear of the building. Mr. Sargent explained that a fire suppression system would be required in the addition. The northern building does not have a sprinkler system, and due to the fact that the addition would connect the two existing buildings, a two -hour, fire -rated wall would need to be installed where the two buildings meet. The northern building does not need to be sprinkled until such time Planning Commission Meeting 2 March 5, 2013 that work requiring a building permit is proposed. The applicant indicated they would stub in for fire suppression now for the future. The existing metal mansard roof would be removed. The facelift would incorporate a variety of building materials and colors as required in the Design Guidelines. The improvements would include staining the brick a darker color and installing corrugated metal panels for variety. The proposed amount of metal siding would be acceptable due to the removal of the existing metal canopy. The rear of the building would be painted to match the proposed color scheme. Rooftop equipment would be painted to match the building or screened from view. The applicant proposed additional plantings along the northern property line to better screen the shopping center from the adjacent residential properties. The city recommended staggering the plantings to provide better coverage with immature trees. City code requires screening along the west property line; however, the applicant did not propose any additional plantings in that area. The dumpster for Arc's Value Village is not adequately screened. Code requires that all dumpsters should be enclosed; however, the final plan illustrated no enclosures for any of the trash receptacles. The applicant's photometric plan indicated compliance with the city's minimum and maximum lighting standards. Details on the lighting fixtures for the front of the building should be submitted to the city. Mr. Sargent stated that city code requires a stacking lane for six vehicles. The location of the stacking lane encroaches in front of Domino's Pizza's back door. Through the PUD flexibility, staff recommended that the stacking lane be reduced to three car lengths and the applicant is providing space for four vehicles. Discussion ensued on the outdoor storage area and the fact that the request was for three semi trailers and a compactor. Commission Hunten pointed out that currently there is a small delivery truck parked in the area as well. Mr. Sargent indicated that size truck would normally be parked in a regular parking stall. The outdoor storage would be for the trailers that are parked in the dock area for an extended period of time. Mr. Brixius interjected that the outdoor storage area would have to be striped for the trailers. Commissioner Hunten questioned where adjoining tenant's employees would park. Commissioner McKenzie inquired where the Domino's delivery truck would park and how that might interfere with the proposed stacking lane and drive aisle. Mr. Sargent reported that the water main located to the west and north of the building has had a history of water main breaks. Staff recommended the applicant consider replacement of this water main as part of the site improvements; however, the applicant does not feel the need to replace it at this time. He added that the city engineer recommended that storm water quantity and quality be addressed. The existing storm water currently enters the storm sewer without any treatment or rate control. Commissioner Brinkman questioned whether or not the water storage tank Planning Commission Meeting 3 March 5, 2013 that CVS installed was intended to control water from the shopping center's parking lot and Mr. Brixius stated that storage tank was only for the CVS lot. Mr. Jacobsen added that staff had discussed concerns with water runoff and area flooding with Kraus Anderson, but under the guidelines of the Bassett Creek Watershed District, the city has no authority to require them to address water quality and quantity issues. The project will not increase the impervious surface area. Mr. Sargent explained that the site is located in a Community Business zoning district and outdoor storage is allowed as an accessory use with a conditional use permit. The outdoor storage area must be landscaped, fenced and screened from view of adjoining properties, the area must be surfaced with concrete or bituminous, and should not take up required parking spaces. He stated that staff does not feel the outdoor storage area is adequately screened from the residential property to the west. According to the applicant, some of the landscaping in that area was removed to accommodate an expansion of the Good Samaritan Society and they feel current sightlines should remain. Staffs viewpoint is that the current CUP application is a new proposal and an intensification of the outdoor storage area, which moves it closer to the western property line, and triggers the city code requirement for ample screening. Per CUP requirements, the proposed plan is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, the property is located in a commercial district and the outdoor storage does not change the character of the neighborhood, there would be no depreciation in value of the neighborhood, and the proposed use complies with other zoning district criteria, including traffic generation. Traffic patterns should not be affected along the public rights -of -way due to the outdoor storage. Nearby residences would be affected due to the lack of screening to the west. Mr. Sargent explained that a PUD provided the grouping of lots or buildings for development in a coordinated manner. A PUD is intended to introduce flexibility of site design for the conservation of land and open space. Shopping centers are interpreted as having more than one principal building and are handled as a planned unit development. The proposed facelift would be consistent with the New Hope Design Guidelines as the color scheme includes warm tones, a mix of textures and building materials. Site plan review is triggered by modification of or additions to a building that increased the gross floor area of the building by 25 percent or more. This proposal modifies the outside of the building by adding a new fagade. The existing metal canopy would be removed and corrugated metal in varied colors would be used either vertically or horizontally to break up the facade wall as an architectural element. The existing brick would be stained using warm building colors including deep brown, brown, tan and black. The heights of the parapets would be varied to create a more aesthetic appeal. More than 60 percent of the building face is brick and glass. The applicant would be submitting a revised comprehensive sign plan to Planning Commission Meeting 4 March 5, 2013 insure that all tenant signage would be sized appropriately and have the same look. Property owners within 350 feet of the site were notified and a public hearing notice was published in the New Hope /Golden Valley SunPost. Staff did receive a few phone calls and no one objected to the proposal. Mr. Sargent stated that staff was generally supportive of the proposed application and the upgrade to the shopping center. The addition would be a great asset to Arc and a benefit to the community. He reiterated that staff does have some concerns including: inadequate screening from the residential property to the west, lack of dumpster enclosures, and inadequate drive aisle width along the north side of the building. Mr. Sargent explained that the applicant had responded to staff concerns just prior to the meeting. He explained that the applicant proposed to widen the drop -off lane from eight feet to 12 feet, they desired to maintain the one -way drive lane of 20 feet, they would set the building back an additional four feet from the north lot line, eliminate one trailer dock, and allocate $10,000 toward plantings on the west property line. Staff would have to review a new landscaping plan to determine the acceptability of plantings on the west property line. Mr. Sargent stated staff was recommending that this request be continued until the April Planning Commission meeting to give the applicant ample time to correct all zoning code requirements not currently met. The Planning Commission could recommend approval with additional conditions and have the applicant submit revised plans for staff to review prior to the Council meeting. Commissioner Landy indicated concern with the 20 -foot drive aisle and whether or not it would be wide enough for West Metro Fire's equipment. Mr. Sargent responded that plans had been reviewed by the fire marshal and the indication was that 20 feet was adequate. Commissioner Brinkman pointed out that the fire marshal had requested two additional fire hydrants but he did not see them on the plans. Mr. Brixius stated that the applicant would need to meet all elements of the fire code. Commissioner Houle asked for the location of the fire department connection, which could impact circulation around the building. He questioned whether or not a car could be parked in front of an exit door. He stated that at the Design and Review Committee meeting they had discussed the number of breaks in the water main. Mr. Sargent replied that the city engineer and public works staff had indicated there were enough breaks in the line to warrant replacement. It is a private line and out of the city's jurisdiction to require replacement. Houle cautioned that there may be a public safety issue for West Metro Fire if that line served the sprinkler system and fire hydrants. Commissioner Houle stressed that rooftop units must be screened from view Planning Commission Meeting 5 March 5, 2013 and wondered how that would be accomplished if the parapets were lowered. Mr. Sargent responded that the applicant had indicated the rooftop units would be adequately screened. Houle commented that RTUs visible above the parapets would not be a step forward. Commissioner Houle questioned if a topographical survey had been submitted for the west and north property lines to know if the sight lines are accurate. Mr. Brixius answered a topographic survey was submitted and staff requested the landscape plan be located on the topographic. A cross section was submitted for the properties to the north. Staff does have concerns about where the sight lines come across the top of the trees and gaps between trees, which was why staggering the plantings was suggested. Commissioner Houle suggested that along with the upgrades at Midland Center measures should be taken to alleviate the storm water issue, especially knowing that the site is over - parked. There would be ample area to construct a feature to provide for rate and quality control. Commissioner Schmidt wondered if replacing the water main should be a condition of approval or if the fire marshal should address it as a safety requirement. Mr. Steve Sondrall, city attorney, stated that the city would need a nexus as to why it was being required. It is a private water line and was not mentioned in the fire marshal's report. Mr. Sargent commented that the water line was maintaining pressure and was functional. Commissioner McKenzie inquired if calculations were submitted as to fire flow for the added sprinkler system and hydrants. Commissioner Hunten stated she was glad to see the center being upgraded, but was disappointed with the usage of metal and, in her opinion, an outdated color scheme. Mr. Brixius responded that with the changes proposed and the elimination of the awning, the proposed metal usage would be much less than the previous arrangement. The metal would be used as an accent and more brick would be exposed. The windows would be more visible. The Design Guidelines emphasize earth tone colors for the buildings. Commissioner Hunten stated that there did not appear to be ample space for trash enclosures at the back of the building or by the Laundromat to accommodate emptying the dumpsters by the trash hauler's truck. Chair Svendsen mentioned that the dumpsters are generally on wheels and would need to be moved out of the enclosure on trash day for the hauler. Commissioner Houle pointed out that trash enclosures are required on all projects in the city. Mr. Brixius stated that the fire marshal asked for hydraulic calculations showing adequate water supply for current and future systems. Two alternatives were suggested in the list of conditions of approval for the trash enclosures. Commissioner Hunten commented that the pylon sign on Winnetka was Planning Commission Meeting 6 March 5, 2013 barely visible for anyone driving by the shopping center and did not feel it was helpful for the businesses. The mature height of boulevard trees and the placement of signage should be better coordinated. Mr. Ken Piper, architect of record with Tanek Architects, 118 East 26th Street, Minneapolis, came forward. Mr. Piper thanked the Commission for their time in reviewing this request. Mr. Piper stated that at the time of the CVS construction approximately 550 feet of the water line through the west side of the site from south to north was replaced. On the line that runs east to west, there has only been one break in the last five years and it was repaired. They are confident that issue has been addressed. A topographic survey was submitted and all the site sections were done utilizing the survey. The high point is the northwest corner of the property and there is a fair amount of exposure looking down to the site. He explained that there was a lot of mature growth on the west side at the time of the Good Samaritan addition. A construction easement was required for the construction and the trees were removed at that time. Good Samaritan did not require the trees be replaced. Mr. Piper stated Midland was willing to look at landscaping there, but believed that growth was the way to handle the screening on the property line at the higher trajectory. On the north side, conifers would be planted at a height of six to eight feet with a mature height of 12 to 20 feet. Mr. Piper noted that they were trying to reuse some of the materials for the upgrade, such as painting the brick. There would be some limitations on the parapet based on the structural capacity. They were confident they would meet the city's requirements and be able to screen the rooftop units from Medicine Lake Road and Winnetka Avenue with a combination of parapets and painting the units. Chair Svendsen pointed out that the RTUs must be screened from adjacent properties, as well as the street. Mr. Piper clarified that the outdoor storage area would contain the trash compactor and two trailers. The compactor location would be closest to the building wall. Mr. Piper reiterated that there would be a 12 -foot drop off aisle on the north side of the building with a four -foot clear area next to the building. Bollards would also be installed. Their rationale for the 20 -foot, one -way drive aisle was that it would help with traffic flow as it approached CVS on the south end of the property. The drive aisle would be signed as one -way behind the shopping center. Commissioner McKenzie pointed out that vehicles could access the site from Medicine Lake Road and requested appropriate signage so drivers knew to immediately turn east into the CVS parking lot. Commissioner Houle questioned where the Domino's drivers park. Mr. Piper indicated the drivers would be parking in the front parking lot in designated spaces. Commissioner Hunten clarified that all employees would need to enter the site from Winnetka Avenue to park at the back of the shopping Planning Commission Meeting 7 March 5, 2013 center. Mr. Piper maintained that the one -way traffic would create a safer flow. Ms. Janet Goossens, Kraus Anderson, 4210 West Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington, came forward. She stated that Golden Valley TV moved closer to the south end of the shopping center and Backstage Bar and Grill would occupy three tenant bays. Mr. Brixius clarified there would be no parking on the north side of the building and that area would be solely for the drive through circulation and dumpster locations. Mr. Piper concurred. Ms. Goossens asked that two parking spaces be allowed to stay on the far northeast corner as the dentist in the adjacent building parks there. All other parking along the north side of the building would be removed. Mr. Piper stated that there would be a striped pedestrian connection on the north by the Laundromat to Winnetka Avenue and there was an existing connection from CVS to Medicine Lake Road. There would be a number of accessible ramps in the sidewalk and additional parking stalls. The addition would be fully sprinkled. There would be a two -hour fire wall where the two buildings connect. In addition to stubbing the main, the main would be extended to the laundry so it is ready for distribution at the time permits would be pulled for tenant improvements. The fire department connection is near the end of the hallway between the new addition and Cinema Grill. The hallway conforms by way of certain widths and nomenclature that allows it to be under code. Commissioner Brinkman wondered if consideration had been given to widening the pavement for the drive aisle to allow for two -way traffic and the 12 -foot drop off area. Mr. Piper commented that the grade increased rapidly to the north. Their intent was not to increase the impervious surface. They felt that the 20 -foot drive aisle would be adequate and one -way traffic would be safer. They considered widening the pavement and constructing a retaining wall, but decided against that approach. Commissioner Houle wondered how staff felt about the one -way traffic. Mr. Brixius replied that staff was initially under the impression that two -way traffic was best. At the Design and Review Committee meeting, after much discussion on one -way versus two -way traffic, the one -way option was brought forward as the applicant's preferred option. The city engineer did not comment on the one -way arrangement. Staff was familiar with the current two -way arrangement and was hesitant to introduce the one -way pattern. Brixius added that the north side of the property is the preferred drop -off area and this design works as far as how Arc functions. Mr. Piper commented that they had tried to work with staff regarding the site design, safety, and clearance away from the building. From Arc's perspective, flow is important from the donation drop -off to salvage. They have reduced the expansion by 207 square feet and eliminated one trailer on the site. Commissioner McKenzie stated he liked the overall concept of the project Planning Commission Meeting 8 March 5, 2013 and was in agreement with the one -way traffic and the fact that it would be more efficient and safer. He inquired as to the on -site drainage flow. Mr. Piper answered that on the west side there were three catch basins to address the drainage on that side. Along Winnetka there are a total of five catch basins and the parking lot runoff flows east, as well as the runoff from the north side of the building. CVS constitutes 25 to 30 percent of the site and their underground tank takes care of the southern quarter of the total site. Mr. Piper indicated that Kraus Anderson felt the drainage issues on site were adequate. Commissioner McKenzie commented that the drainage issues included a storm sewer network issue for the area rather than just a site issue. By taking out a few excess parking stalls, Kraus Anderson would be able to improve its impervious situation and add a feature, such as a rain garden. It would add a natural landscaping feature, improve water quality, and offer a beneficial public image by putting groundwater back into the ground. Commissioner McKenzie added the petitioner should be sure there was fire flow as well as fire pressure for the water mains. Ms. Laurel Hansen, director of Arc Value Village thrift stores, came forward to answer questions of the Commission. She stated that as a green business, they recycle millions of pounds of merchandise per year. The trailers are a key component of that operation. The minimum numbers of trailers needed to keep the operation flowing is two; One for textiles /recycling and the second for seasonal products. The third dock would be for the compactor. Ms. Hansen mentioned that their Richfield operation was set up the same way as this location in that CVS is located in close proximity and the traffic flow around the mall was redirected from two -way to one -way. The change has been positive and has eliminated speeding in the area. She thanked the Commission for considering this application and stated that, after 20 years in New Hope, the expansion was vital to what they do and the people they serve. All of the money they raise goes back into the community. Arc generates a lot of traffic to the center which helps the other businesses in the area. All of the tenants will benefit from the facelift to the center. Chair Svendsen requested clarification on trash enclosures for the dumpsters. Mr. Piper replied that due to a large number of utility lines running behind the shopping center, it would be difficult to construct trash enclosures with footings. He indicated they could group several dumpsters together in various locations on the west side of the center. Mr. Piper stated that they were asking for consideration to vary from city standards on the trash enclosure requirement. Mr. Brixius stated that he had recommended they provide details regarding the location of dumpsters and trash enclosures or provide an alternative plan designating locations, containment, and screening of the shopping center dumpsters. Currently, the shopping center is an existing business and the conditions predated the existing enclosure ordinance. Along the north and west sides, the dumpsters need to be accessible and screened. The city may need to consider some flexibility through the PUD; however, the city would need assurances by management that the dumpsters are monitored to be certain they do not move from place to place. Ms. Goossens indicated she would designate and stripe acceptable areas near the building as the dumpster locations. She added that Planning Commission Meeting 9 March 5, 2013 landscaping would provide screening on the north lot line. Mr. Brixius maintained that Kraus Anderson management would have to be responsible for keeping the dumpsters in the proper locations in the future. Ms. Goossens added there is a management person on site four hours daily. Mr. Piper commented that he appreciated the Commission's time in considering this application. He stated Kraus Anderson hoped the Commission would recommend approval based on conditions rather than postponing a decision for another month, as moving forward was critical to the project. Chair Svendsen inquired if anyone in the audience wished to address the Commission. Ms. Molly Lindblad, 15 East Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis, commented that she was supportive of Arc's expansion. She explained that her brother has down's syndrome and her family has benefitted from Arc's services for about 40 years. She was confident that the expansion of the sales floor would translate into more services available for other families. Mr. Andrew Odney, Colliers International, 10135 48th Avenue North, Plymouth, came forward. He stated he represented Arc in their real estate dealings. His brother -in -law has severe special needs and Arc has been a tremendous advocate for the family. Without Arc stores, the opportunities for special assistance for the family may not have been available. He added that he donates to Arc and shops at this store and was excited for the potential expansion. He commented that the expansion and facelift to Midland Center would be a great asset to the community and Arc's mission. Ms. Goossens added that Kraus Anderson had been wanting to renovate the center for a long time. They are now able to complete the renovations due to having two long -term leases at the shopping center — Cinema Grill and Arc Value Village. There was no one else in the audience that wished to speak at the public hearing. Motion by Commissioner Houle, seconded by Commissioner Landy to close the public hearing. All voted in favor. Motion carried. Mr. Brixius asked for feedback from the Commission on the one -way traffic pattern. Commissioner Houle stated he felt the project should be tabled to the April Planning Commission meeting to allow time for staff to review the most recent plans and allow time for the applicant to address additional issues. Discussion ensued on whether or not the Commission should conduct a special meeting on this issue prior to the March 25 City Council meeting. Mr. Sargent answered that if detailed revised plans were received in the next week, staff would be able to review them and make a determination based on Planning Commission Meeting 10 March 5, 2013 feedback received from the Commission and attaching conditions of approval for Council review. Mr. Sondrall reminded the Commission that procedures would need to be followed if a special Planning Commission meeting was called. Mr. Jacobsen interjected that one -way traffic around the building would not be a problem. The trash enclosures could be addressed by the applicant. The water main and storm water issues discussed were not under the city's control. Commissioner Hunten added that the fire flow issue would be for fire department follow through once the new hydrants are in place. Mr. Sargent added that many of the conditions have been addressed since the planning report was written. The applicant has made a good faith effort by quickly revising their plans to bring them to this meeting. They should also provide more detail on the landscaping plan to show the type, number and location of plantings on the west property line. If the Commission is in agreement with the 20 -foot wide drive aisle, that will be a condition of approval. The PUD process would allow flexibility on the dumpster locations and screening as a condition of approval. Motion Motion by Commissioner Schmidt, seconded by Commissioner Landy, to Item 4.1 approve Planning Case 13 -01, conditional use permit/planned unit development, site and building plan review, and comprehensive sign plan, 2717 Winnetka Avenue North, Daniel Engelsma, petitioner, subject to the following conditions: 1. A 20 -foot wide drive aisle accommodating a one -way circulation of traffic around the back side of the shopping center shall be acceptable given the following criteria: a. The drop off service lane for Arc's Value Village shall be a minimum of 12 feet in width, the location and design of the service lane shall not interfere with on -site traffic circulation, shopping center deliveries or trash collection. b. The 20 -foot fire lane used to accommodate emergency vehicle access shall remain unencumbered at all times. c. No parking shall be permitted along the north side of the building. Applicant shall provide a sign plan that posts no parking signs and provide a management plan that outlines how this parking prohibition will be enforced. d. No snow storage shall be located on the pavement area on the north side of the building. Snow storage shall not interfere with on -site traffic circulation patterns nor reduce the width of required drive lanes or fire lanes. e. All trash enclosures along the north side of the building shall be located in designated area approved by the city. The location of trash equipment must be accessible to trash hauler but shall not interfere with the tenant delivery areas, the approved service lane, drive lanes, or the required fire lane. Planning Commission Meeting 11 March 5, 2013 f. No pizza delivery pick -ups shall occur along the north side of the building. g. Applicant shall provide a sign plan that identifies the type and location of all directional signs to be installed directing the traffic flow as one -way around the shopping center. This sign plan shall be reviewed and approved by the city. 2. In relation to the existing dumpsters, the following shall apply: a. Specific locations for all dumpsters shall be designated on the site plan, and delineated on the site in a permanent manner. b. The site plan shall indicate proper screening of the dumpsters. c. The shopping center shall create a management plan for the maintenance of the dumpsters in relation to keeping them contained in their designated areas, maintaining the approved screening, and insuring that they are kept in a clean and orderly manner. 3. Drop off activities (donations) shall occur only via the proposed drop -off lane with the assistance of store personnel. 4. Plantings north of the drop -off lane and outdoor storage area shall be located (staggered) and sized to provide a full and immediate screen from the adjacent property to the north. 5. Landscaping of appropriate sizes and number shall be extended along the west lot line in a staggered row of plantings to screen the loading and outdoor storage areas from the residential use to the west. 6. The landscape plan shall be modified to note how plant installation, irrigation, and maintenance may occur to insure tree survival and growth. 7. Site drainage and utilities shall be subject to approval by the city engineer. 8. The rear of the building (north and west facades) shall be painted to improve their appearance. 9. Lighting fixture details shall be submitted subject to city approval. 10. All rooftop equipment shall be screened from view of abutting properties and rights -of -way. 11. The following sign - related sign plan shall be satisfied: A. The sources of all lights shall be shielded of direct visibility of the light source. This standard shall also apply to any light banding or light architectural accents. B. All individually designated tenant sign areas shall be sized not to exceed 15 percent of the total fagade tenant bay. C. All new signs shall be subject to permit. D. The comprehensive sign plan shall address the shopping center's freestanding signs. 12. All submitted plans shall be subject to review and comment by the city fire marshal and all applicable requirements of the Fire Code shall be satisfied. 13. Applicant to enter into a conditional use permit/planned unit development, site improvement agreement to be prepared by the city attorney. 14. Applicant to provide a performance bond with amount to be Planning Commission Meeting 12 March 5, 2013 determined by the city engineer and building official. 15. Comments of other city staff. Voting in favor: Brinkman, Dumonceaux, Hunten, Landy, McKenzie, Schmidt Voting against: Houle, Svendsen Absent: Nirgude Motion approved. Chair Svendsen stated that the City Council would consider this planning case at its March 25 meeting and requested the petitioner to be in attendance. Planning Case 13 -02 Chair Svendsen introduced Item 4.2, Ordinance #13 -03, an ordinance Item 4.2 amending the New Hope Sign Code regarding changeable copy sign requirements, city of New Hope, petitioner. Mr. Sargent stated that in January 2013 the Codes and Standards Committee reviewed a proposed text amendment related to the changeable message signs. School District 281 was considering changing the existing Cooper High School monument sign at Corner Park with an illuminated changeable copy sign. City code requires a 100 foot setback to adjacent properties in the R -1 zoning district. Signs can be no brighter than 500 lumens and the message can change no more frequently than once every five seconds. Corner Park is located in an R -1 single family residential zoning district and is surrounded by residential properties. There would be nowhere on the property to place a changeable copy sign and meet code requirements. The proposed amendment would reduce the minimum setback from 100 feet to 30 feet from residential properties. An automatic dimming device to control the sign's brightness would be required to reduce negative impacts to surrounding properties. The maximum illumination at an adjacent property line would be no greater than 0.4 foot candles above ambient light readings. Mr. Sargent stated staff recommended approval of the ordinance amendment. He added that the amendment would relate to all signs in residential areas throughout the city. Commissioner Houle clarified that the message copy could be changed every five seconds. He questioned how scrolling messages worked with the five second rule. Mr. Sargent answered that the current ordinance does not allow for any type of animation or scrolling. The change would have to be instantaneous with a static message. Mr. Brixius mentioned a couple word changes in the ordinance: 1) 3- 50(k)91)d3iv to change the last word from district to dwelling; and 2) 3- 50(k)(1)d6 change ... lumens per "square meter foot" to ... lumens per "square meter" and delete "foot." Motion Motion by Commissioner Landy, seconded by Commissioner Brinkman, to Item 4.2 approve Ordinance #13 -03, an ordinance amending the New Hope Sign Code regarding changeable copy sign requirements, city of New Hope, Planning Commission Meeting 13 March 5, 2013 petitioner. Voting in favor: Brinkman, Dumonceaux, McKenzie, Schmidt, Svendsen Voting against: None Absent: Nirgude Motion approved. Houle, Hunten, Landy, Chair Svendsen stated the City Council would consider this ordinance amendment at its March 25 meeting. COMMITTEE REPORTS Design and Review Chair Svendsen stated the Design and Review Committee met in February Committee with the petitioner. Mr. Jacobsen reported that there were no pre- application Item 5.1 meetings conducted and staff was not aware of any new planning applications for April. The committee members would be contacted if an application was submitted. Chair Svendsen appointed Commissioner McKenzie to the Design and Review Committee along with himself and Commissioners Houle and Nirgude, and Commissioner Dumonceaux to the Codes and Standards Committee with Commissioners Schmidt, Brinkman, and Hunten. Commissioner Landy will continue as a floater. Codes and Standards Chair Svendsen reported that the Codes and Standards Committee met in Committee January. Mr. Sargent stated the next meeting is scheduled for March 20. Item 5.2 NEW BUSINESS There was no new business. OLD BUSINESS Approval of Minutes Motion by Commissioner Landy, seconded by Commissioner Brinkman, to Item 7.1 approve the Planning Commission minutes of November 7, 2012. Commissioner Houle abstained. Balance of commissioners voted in favor. Motion carried. Motion by Commissioner Landy, seconded by Commissioner Brinkman, to approve the Planning Commission minutes of December 4, 2012. All voted in favor. Motion carried. Commissioner Houle commented on a statement made by Mayor Hemken at the workshop on December 4 that once a decision was made on a planning application by the City Council that city commissioners should stand as a united front with the Council. He indicated that he was a taxpayer as well as a city commissioner and sometimes disagreed with the decisions made by the Council. The fact that he was part of a city commission should not bind him to one way of thinking. Commissioner Hunten concurred. ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Svendsen announced the Remodeling Fair would be held on April 6, Planning Commission Meeting 14 March 5, 2013 2013. ADJOURNMENT The Planning Commission meeting was unanimously adjourned at 9:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Pamela Sylvester, Recording Secretary Planning Commission Meeting 15 March 5, 2013