Planning Commission Minutes 11-02-1999_ MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING - MONTICELLO PLANNING COMMISSION
Tuesday, November 2,1999
Members Present: Dick Fric. Robbie Smith. Roy Popilck. Richard Carlson. Rod Dragsten
and Council Liaison Clint Herbst
Staff Present: JeffO'Ncill. Fred Patch. Steve Griuman and Lori Kmcmcr
1. Call to order: Chair Fric called the meeting to order.
2. Annmval of minutes of the reeular mectine held October 5. 1999.
ROY POPILEK MOVED TO APPROVED THE MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER
5,1999 REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING. RICHARD
CARLSON SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion carried.
J. Consideration of addinu items to the aeenda.
Chair Frie noted the past cooperation from the School District with the City in regard to
sharing and scheduling of ball fields and tennis courts. No further discussion necessary.
Fred Patch. Building Official. requested to add a discussion regarding sidcyard setbacks
for garages in the Parkside at Meadow Oaks development (Harold Schermer). This was
added as item I I on the agenda.
4. Citizens comments: None
5. Consideration of a reauest fi r an amendment ton Planned Unit Development within the
ine District to allow flan off-site auto sales/stom et licant: Dave
Peterson's Monticello Ford.
'Me applicant is requesting an amendment to their PUD approval granted earlier this year
for the purpose of expanding the area of the PUD creating an additional area of on about
2.2 acres of land west of Sandberg Road which would be utilized for the storage of
automobile inventory. including an enclosed secure storage lot. The applicant is also
requesting an amendment to the approved sign package which would allow a larger
electronic sign, based on comments from the sign installer. The expansion site would
allow for the storage of more than 150 additional cars. plus a secured storage area for
approximately 80 vehicles.
Steve Grittman noted this would be allowed in the district, subject to the improvements
applied to similar uses, such as paving, curbing, and landscaping. The submitted plan
meets required setbacks and screening requirements for commercial areas• but does not
C illustrate the landscaping or specify the curbing and paving proposed. A written proposal
describing a commitment to meeting landscaping and screening requirements was
submitted prior to the meeting.
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The applicant is also requesting a larger electronic sign than the one previously approved
by the City noting the sign contractor stated that the approved sign would not allow for
certain longer messages without flashing. The approved sign was 2 feet high by 12 feet,
8 inches long. The proposed sign would be 5 feet, I inch by 18 feet long, an increase
from about 26 square feet to more than 90 square feet. The proposed change would allow
for a longer message on two lines, instead of just one line as currently approved. Steve
Johnson, Monticello Ford, provided yet another proposed sign of 63 sq. fl. on the face
with 2 lines of 12" matrix which is smaller but would be adequate. He requested to work
with staff to come to an agreement on the sign as soon as possible.
Because of the multiple uses on this site, and the intensity of the improvement, the City
previously approved a PUD which allowed for more than the allowed signage. This
request would increase the size even more. The proposed amendment allowing electronic
message board signs states that the allowable signage is not to be increased by the use of
such signs, but that the electronic sign is to comprise a portion of the currently allowed
sign area.
Mr. Griuman stated that stafTdoes not recommend approval of the increased signage.
This site has been permitted, under the previous approval, a significant increase in
allowable sign number and area. The proposed Ordinance to allow electronic message
board signs states that such signs arc not to increase the allowable sign area. Although
the applicant's new sign contractor states that the revised sign would be convenient from
the standpoint of allowing more flexibility in the messages it transmits, it does not appear
to be necessary to provide effLctive communication.
With regard to the sales lot expansion, staff believes that this expansion of the PUD is
appropriate in general. however. there has been very little detail submitted in support of
the proposal %with regard to site improvements. screening size or materials. or
landscaping. JcfTO'Ncill provided a picture showing setbacks in regard to the daycare
center located next to the proposed storage lot noting there have been no plans submitted
showing a buffer to the daycare. It is staffs intent to work with dealership regarding this
issue.
Chair Frie opened the public hearing. Melody Peterson, co-owner of the Playhouse
Daycare and owner of building, was present to slate the concerns of the parents as well as
the daycare as a business owner. They feel they arc being completely encircled by car
lots and they fuel they are not being visible. Chair Frie advised Ms. Peterson to speak
with Steve Johnson concerning landscaping and buffers. Steve Johnson advised the
members that they are only trying to keep them informed of their future plus and be does
realize that this is very preliminary and would have the appropriate information available
for the Planning Commission meeting in December. Chair Frie closed public hearing.
The consensus of the memberswas to table any action for further information. At that
time they would address items such as lighting and screening.
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ROBBIE SMITH MOVED TO TABLE ACTION ON THE PUD AMENDMENT.
SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. RICIIARD CARLSON
SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion carried.
There was further discussion by Steve Johnson on the need to proceed with the proposed
sign. The size of the proposed sign has changed since the Planning Commission's
previous approval. Robbie Smith requested a copy of the previous minutes relating to the
previous approval of the sign.
CHAIR FRIE MOVED FOR A SPECIAL MEETING TO BE HELD PRIOR TO
THE CITU COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 22,1999. RICHARD
CARLSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
CHAIR FRIE MOVED TO AMEND, TABLE AND CONTINUE THE PUBLIC
HEARING TO 5:00 PM ON NOVEMBER 22, 1999. RICHARD CARLSON
SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion carried.
6. Consideration of reuuest for a Preliminary Plat for Klein Farms 6th Addition within the
Monticello Orderly Annexation Arca nnlicant: Frank Klein and Davc Klcin.
The applicant has submitted an application for preliminary plat for approximately forty
acres south of Klein Fars 4th Addition to consist of 51 single family lots. The
Monticello Orderly Annexation Area Board reviewed the proposal at its October meeting
and made the required findings of contiguity with existing City boundaries, and
consistency with the MORA land use plan. Both the MORA and City of Monticello land
use plans call for low density residential development on this property. The applicant has
requested an R -I. Single Family Residential zoning designation. A small wetland has
been delineated in the southeast portion of the property. This wetland is proposed to
remain untouched.
Park issues. pathways, street construction and pedestrian access were also discussed.
The Parks Commission reviewed this plat and recommended approval of the park and
pathway systems. One of their specific recommendations is to include a pathway that
follows the UPA casement. A concept plan for the street extension would be important in
helping to determine the standards for this street. There wcrc also issues with regard to
the lot layout in the northwest comer of the plat and the impacts that the casements will
have on the future development of the neighboring property to the west. Also relating to
layout is the gap between the Amoco easement and the NSP casement.
Chair Fric opened the public hearing. Tim McDougall. 4774 Diamond Dr.. (northwest
comer of Klein Fars 4' Addn) stated his concern with street layout and types of homes
that would be built , as well as the proposed pathways. It was relayed to Mr. McDougall
that the City is preserving this area for future use. Dave Klein. applicant, was also
present to answer any questions. Jeff O'Neill clarified condition a6 stating the grading
Planning Commission Minutes - 11102199
plan would accommodate the pathway which would be outside of the ROW: the ROW is
being expanded. Chair Fric closed the public hearing.
There was further discussion regarding a revised preliminary plat which Mr. Klein stated
he would have available prior to the next meeting. It was also stated that preparation of a
finance plan funding lateral and trunk improvements %will need to be discussed prior to the
next meeting.
ROD DRAGSTEN MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE
REZONING TO R-1, BASED ON A FINDING THAT THE ZONING
DESIGNATION WOULD BE CONSISTENT WITH THE LOW DF-NSITV
RESIDENTIAL RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CITV'S LAND USE PLAN
FOR THE AREA. ROY POPILEK SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion earned.
Decision 1: Preliminary Plat for Klein Farms 61h Addition
ROD DRAGSTEN MOVED TO TABLE ACTION ON THE PRELIMINARY
PLAT UNTIL THE DECEMBER 7.1999 MEETING. SUBJECT TO
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. RICHARD CARLSON SECONDED THE
MOTION. Motion carried.
7. Considention of nn amendment to the/_onina Ordinance to allow for a deferral of
\ parking lot paving and/or curb reauirements in the Business Districts. Annlicam: Citv of
Monticello,
Steve Griuman provided an updated draft ordinance noting the current zoning regulations
allow for such a deferral for industrial uses in the industrial districts. A separate text
amendment would be necessary to accommodate these requests in commercially zoned
areas.
The dull ordinance has been written to include both the PZM and A -O Districts as
potential applications. The Planning Commission's interest was in allowing flexibility
for both the Golf Course expansion and those commercial uses which have convened
former residential buildings along Broadway. The new draft would apply the same
standards to these areas as for other applicable sites. The primary concern with this issue
is one of enforcement.
Chair Fric opened public hearing and upon hearing no response. Chair Fric closed the
public hearing. There was discussion among the commissioners stating enforcement
would be very difficult, possibly seeking financial surety in the form of a bond or a letter
of credit would be necessary, or the business should have proof of parking rather than the
C City changing the ordinance. It was the consensus of the members to seek more
information regarding financial surety and enforcement options.
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ROBBIE SMITH MOVED TO TABLE. ACTION ON THE AMENDMENT,
SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ROY POPILEK SECONDED
THE MOTION. Dick Frie opposed. Motion carried 4 to 1.
Consideration of an amendment to the Monticello Zonine Ordinance relating to signs to
allow electronic messaee board siuns. Annlicant: Citv of Monticello.
Steve Grittman provided a drat ordinance which would permit signs in the B-3 and B4
commercial districts only, on the theory that they do not belong in areas near residential
neighborhoods (as would be the case in the B- 1. B-2. or PZM districts), nor would they
appear to meet the intent of the Design Guidelines for the CCD. lie asked the Planning
Commission to discuss %vhcther the CCD is an appropriate district. As noted. governmental
signs in the residential districts are allowed under a separate section. Steve also provided a
list of regulations for these signs.
The proposed amendment addressed the use of electronic message board signs in commercial
districts, and should not affect the previous amendment. This clause does not impact what
has already been approved, it would be an addition to that. Chair Frie stated that any
expansion of allowable districts would have to come back to the Planning Commission. It
was discussed whether these signs should be allowed in the CCD along the Highway 25
corridor which would include only those properties abutting Ilighway 25.
ROD DRAGSTEN MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE
AMENDMENT TO ADD ELECTRONIC MESSAGE BOARD SIGNS AS
PERMITTED SIGN TYPES IN THE B-3 AND B4 DISTRICTS, AS WELL AS THE
CORRIDOR OF THE HIGHWAY 25 CCD WHICH INCLUDES ONLY THOSE
PARCELS ABUTTING HIGHWAY 25, WITH THE REGULATIONS AS
PROPOSED, BASED ON A FINDING THAT THE REGULATIONS WILL AVOID
PROBLEMS OF NUISANCE OR TRAFFIC HAZARD. RICHARD CARLSON
SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion carried.
Discussion reearding n comp Plan amendment to the OAA area affecting the Kiellben: West
Trailer Pork,
Stevc Grittman discussed the issue of a possible amendment to the City's comp plan
addressing the land use plan regarding the Kjellbcrg West Trailer Park area. It was
questioned whether this issue should first come before the MORA board or the City. Options
discussed were to take the Kjellberg West area out of the expansion area in the comp plan or
keep it at "mid density'. but specifically defining this area as townhomes/twin homes only.
There were legal concerns of the members regarding the City changing the land use plan, but
C it was stated that the City has the right to change this area to fit the comp plan. It was stated
by the members the need to address the land use issue in this arca and to do so prior to any
further development proposals.
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C-.- ROY POPILEK MOVED FOR A PUBLIC HEARING TO AMEND THE
COMPREHENSIVE. PLAN AFFECTING THE OAA AREA AND KJELLBERG
PARK. ROBBIE SMITH SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion carried.
10. Discuss undatcs to the Subdivision Ordinance.
Jeff O'Neill briefly discussed the ordinance requirement on simple subdivision regarding the
applicants requirement to provide a survey at time of application. At this time, the City does
not require the certificate of survey until after the decision of the planning commission to
avoid any unnecessary expense of the survey if the application is not approved. We do
require however, a certified survey prior to its recording for proper documentation. Jcff also
discussed the requirement for the completing of plats within one year as the City's code states
it would lapse if not completed within this time period. This item will be on the December
agenda. Jeff did state that technically this does not have to go before the Planning
Commission, it can be taken directly to City Council even though it is a subdivision
ordinance. The Planning Commission indicated an interest in reviewing the proposed
subdivision ordinance. No action was necessary at this time.
Discussion reeardine sidevard setbacks (2Lenroecs in the Parkside a1Meadowv Oaks
Devcloomcm. Qlarold Schermer)_
Fred Patch briefly informed the members of Mr. Harold Schermer's request to reduce
building setbacks to 5'. Fred reminded the members that a previous request for this a
reduction in setback requirements had failed. Mr. Scherer addressed the members stating
that the setback requirements in the City were mistakenly overlooked when he initially signed
the contract, and that the pathway standards had also changed since that time (1997) and this
has also affected his development. Jeff O'Neill noted that the pathways had changed and that
the City was reimbursing Mr. Schemer for the additional costs. Mr. Schermer also noted
that other changes had occurred since his plans were approved and that he would be meeting
with Jeff O'Neill the next day regarding these matters.
The consensus of the Planning Commission was to not recommend an amendment to the
City's Ordinance regarding a reduction in setback requirements.
12. Adjoum
ROD DRAGSTEN MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 11:00 P.M.
RICHARD CARLSON SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion carried.
Cn Kraemer, ecording Secretary