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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-04-24 CDRB Packet AGENDA CITY OF MAPLEWOOD COMMUNITY DESIGN REVIEW BOARD Tuesday, April 24, 2012 6:00 P.M. Council Chambers - Maplewood City Hall 1830 County Road BEast 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes: a. February 28, 2012 b. March 27, 2012 5. Unfinished Business: a. Saint Paul Hmong Alliance Church, Design Plan Review, 1770 McMenemy Street 6. Design Review: a. Holiday Stationstore - Sign Setback Variances, 280 McKnight Road South b. Men's Warehouse, Maplewood Mall Comprehensive Sign Plan, 3001 White Bear Avenue 7. Visitor Presentations: a. 3M Monument Sign Presentation, 3M Center 8. Board Presentations: 9. Staff Presentations: a. Election of Officers 10. Adjourn MINUTES OF THE MAPLEWOOD COMMUNITY DESIGN REVIEW BOARD 1830 COUNTY ROAD BEAST, MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2012 1. CALL TO ORDER Chairperson Ledvina called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. 2. ROLL CALL Boardmember, Jawaid Ahmed Boardmember, Jason Lamers Chairperson, Matt Ledvina Boardmember, Ananth Shankar Vice Chairperson, Matt Wise Present Absent Present Present Present Staff Present: Michael Martin, Planner Staff added 6.c. Capital Improvement Plan 20 amended. 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Ayes - All The motion passed. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUT Boardmember Shankar move rove the December 13 2011 CDRB minutes as submitted. Boardmember Wise seconded the motion. Ayes - All The motion passed. The CDRB minutes for January 24,2012, have been tabled until the next CDRB meeting. 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None 6. DESIGN REVIEW a. Maplewood Town Center - Exterior Remodel and Sign Criteria Revision, 1845 County Road D East i. Planner, Michael Martin gave the report on the Maplewood Town Center ex1erior remodel and sign criteria revision. February 28, 2012 Community Design Review Board Meeting Minutes 1 ii. Dan POllastrini, Pope Architects, representing H. J. Development, LLP, addressed and answered questions of the board. Boardmember Shankar moved to approve the plans date-stamped February 7. 2012. for the proposed buildina uPQrades and siQnaae chanaes to the Maplewood Town Center shoppina center located at 1845 County Road D East. Approval is subject to the applicant complyinQ with the followinQ conditions: (additions are in bold and underlined). 1. Repeating this review in two years if the city has not issued a building permit for this project. 2. The property owner shall inform the tenants in the building of the city's requirement to keep trash dumpsters within the trash enclosures. If it is found that there are not enough trash enclosures available for all tenants, the applicant shall provide additional enclosures, subject to staff approval of placement and design. 3. The applicant shall meet the .4 foot-candle maximum with any new lights installed and work toward meeting this criteria when any existing lamps or bulbs are replaced. 4. The wall signs to be allowed for the proposed DS esigner Shoe Warehouse space in the shopping center shall be a maximum letter heig 6.5 feet tall to allow for a six-inch space between a double-row of sign copy. The sign for vacant tenant space shall meet the criteria allowed for the other smaller tenant this bui . This allows wall signs up to three feet in letter height if a single line of sign c i ed. If wo lines of signage are used, each line shall not exceed 18 inches in hei t witli to an eight-inch space in between for a total sign height of 44 inches. Tenant wall ha e allowed on the back side of the building subject to these size limitations. 5. ngineering department and building official as 6. shall approve major changes to these plans. Minor 7. 8. All exterior liQht fixtures shall match the existin~. Chairperson Ledvina seconded the motion. Ayes - All The motion passed. b. Venner Plaza Shoppes - Design review and building setback variance, 1987 County Road D East i. Planner, Michael Martin gave the report on the Venner Plaza Shoppes for the design review and building setback variance. ii. Dean Dovolis, DJR Architecture, Inc. addressed and answered questions of the board. Boardmember Shankar moved to approve the plans date-stamped January 17. 2012. for the Venner Plaza Shoppes retail buildina to be located at 1987 County Road D East. Approval is February 28, 2012 Community Design Review Board Meeting Minutes 2 subiect to the applicant doinq the followinq: Approve the plans date-stamped January 17. 2012. and buildin~ elevations and perspectives submitted for review February 28. 2012. (chan~es to the motion are in bold and underlined), a. Repeat this review in two years if the city has not issued a building permit for this project. b. Prior to issuance of a grading or building permit, the applicant must submit to staff for approval the following items: 1) Revised grading/drainage/utility/landscaping plans which comply with all city engineering department requirements as specified in the February 9, 2012, engineering report. 2) Revised landscape plan showing the following: a) Additional trees, shrubs and non-deciduous elements in the area between White Bear Avenue and the west side of the building. b) Additional trees along County Road D East between the rainwater garden and driveway. west rainwater garden and the c) A wrought-iron fence located between building. 3) Revised west elevation (White Be can be accomplished by the addit incorporating more design elements. This false windows. 4) Obtain a permit from Ram driveway access, utility or construction on county right-of-way for the alk. 5) Any watershed dis 6) A cash escrow or an vo amount shall be 150 pe Ie letter or credit for all required ex1erior improvements. The t of the cost of the work. c. Signage of the property is not part of the design review approval. Sign permits will need to be approved by staff for any and all signs. d The applicant shall complete the following before occupying the building: 1) Replace any property irons removed because of this construction. 2) Provide continuous concrete curb and gutter around the parking lot and driveways. 3) Install all required landscaping and underground irrigation. 4) Screen or paint the rooftop mechanical equipment to match the building color. 5) Install all required outdoor lighting. 6) Install employee only parking signs for the 10 spaces on the east side of the site. February 28,2012 Community Design Review Board Meeting Minutes 3 e. If any required work is not done, the city may allow temporary occupancy if: 1) The city determines that the work is not essential to the public health, safety or welfare. 2) The above-required letter of credit or cash escrow is held by the City of Maplewood for all required exterior improvements. The owner or contractor shall complete any unfinished exterior improvements by June 1 if occupancy of the building is in the fall or winter, or within six weeks of occupancy of the building if occupancy is in the spring or summer. f. All work shall follow the approved plans. The director of community development may approve minor changes. g. The applicant shall work with staff in enhancino the south elevation bv providinQ bandino to break UP the larae brick surlace on that elevation, Boardmember Wise seconded the motion. Ayes - All c, rovement Plan for 2013-2017. Boardmember Wise seconded t Ayes - All 7, VISITOR PRESENTATIONS None 8. BOARD PRESENTATIONS None 9, STAFF PRESENTATIONS a, Election of Officers Election of Officers has been tabled until the next CDRB meeting. 10. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned by Chairperson Ledvina at 7:27 p.m. February 28, 2012 Community Design Review Board Meeting Minutes 4 MINUTES OF THE MAPLEWOOD COMMUNITY DESIGN REVIEW BOARD 1830 COUNTY ROAD BEAST, MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA TUESDAY, MARCH 27, 2012 1. CALL TO ORDER Chairperson Ledvina called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. 2. ROLL CALL Boardmember, Jawaid Ahmed Boardmember, Jason Lamers Chairperson, Matt Ledvina Boardmember, Ananth Shankar Vice Chairperson, Matt Wise Present Present Present Absent Absent Staff Present: Michael Martin, Planner Boardmember Lamers moved to a Ayes - All 3, APPROVAL OF AGENDA 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Boardmember Lamers m 24 2012 CDRB minutes as submitted. Chairperson Ledvina seconde Ayes - Chairperson Ledvina, & Boardmember Lamers Abstention - Boardmember Ahmed The motion passed. Due to lack of members the February 27,2012, CDRB minutes were tabled. 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None 6, DESIGN REVIEW a, Maplewood Town Center - Exterior Remodel Revision, 1845 County Road D East i. Planner, Michael Martin gave the report and answered questions of the board. ii. Dan P from Pope Architects March 27,2012 Community Design Review Board Meeting Minutes 1 Boardmember Ahmed moved to approve the architectural plan and siQnaae revisions date- stamped March 16. 2012, for the proposed chanQes to the east and north buildinQ elevations at Maplewood Town Center shoppinQ center, 1845 County Road D East. Approval is subject to the applicant complyina with the followinQ conditions: 1. Complying with the community design review board conditions of approval dated February 28, 2012, for this building remodeling, unless stated otherwise below. 2. Though the rear-elevation detail is shown on the plans as an "Alternative," it should be considered the approved, required building design detail. 3. The rear elevation wall signs are approved as revised. The allowed sign criteria for these wall signs shall be as follows: The DSW sign and the "vacant tenant" sign shall not exceed a letter height of three feet if a single line of sign copy is used. If two lines of signage are used, each line shall not exceed 18 inches in height with up to an eight-inch space in between for a total sign height of 44 inches. b, LA Fitness i. Planner, Michael Martin gave ii. Steve Johnson, Solomon board. Minor 4. Seconded by Boardmember Lamers. The motion passed. Boardmember Lamers mo March 15 2012 for the osed r Count Road D East. A ro 1. Repeating this review in two years if the city has not issued a building permit for this project. 2. The property owner shall comply with all requirements of the Fire Marshal, Building Official, Health Official and Engineering department. Refer to the conditions of approval noted in the engineering review by Steve Kummer, Staff Engineer, dated March 15, 2012. 3. The applicant shall meet the .4 footcandle maximum of site-lighting illumination at the property lines. 4. The proposed LA Fitness wall signs shall comply with the required 150 square foot maximum. The mural is approved as proposed. The pylon sign may be used if the same sign cabinet is kept. If the applicant alters this sign, it would be held to the 100 square foot maximum required by ordinance. (Staff approval on the mural sign if and when its changed out) 5. The applicant shall submit a landscape plan to staff for approval providing for landscaping on the north side of the building and trash enclosure. 6. The trash enclosure fence shall be repaired. March 27, 2012 Community Design Review Board Meeting Minutes 2 7. The community design review board shall approve major changes to these plans. Minor changes may be approved by staff. Seconded by Boardmember Ahmed. Ayes - All The motion passed. c, Veteran's Memorial Park i. Planner, Michael Martin gave the report and answered questions of the board. Boardmember Lamers moved to approve the comprehensive siQn ph~m to allow for eiQht-foot by four-foot temporary sports facility sponsorship banner sians to be hunQ on the outfield fences at Veteran's Memorial Park. 1980 North Saint Paul Road. Approval of the comprehensive siQn plan is subject to the followinQ conditions: 1. Signs must have a white background and no more than two colors for the advertisement. 2. Parks and recreation staff shall approve all signag 4. facility lighting during hours of use. 3. Outfield signs must be taken down at the end 5. Ayes - All 7. 8. BOARD PRESENTATIONS NOne 9. STAFF PRESENTATIONS a, Election of Officers Tabled until the next meeting due to lack of boardmembers that attended the meeting. b. 2011 Annual Report i. Planner, Michael Martin gave the report and answered questions of the board. Chairperson Ledvina added comments regarding the 2011 Annual Report. March 27, 2012 Community Design Review Board Meeting Minutes 3 Chairperson Ledvina moved to approve the 2011 CDRB Annual Report. Seconded by Boardmember Lamers. Ayes - All The motion passed. 10, ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned by Chairperson Ledvina at 6:45 p.m. March 27, 2012 Community Design Review Board Meeting Minutes 4 MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: LOCATION: DATE: James Antonen, City Manager Michael Martin, AICP, Planner St. Paul Hmong Alliance Church - Design Plans Review 1770 McMenemy Street April 18, 2012 INTRODUCTION Proposal On December 12, 2011, the St. Paul Hmong Alliance Church, at 1770 McMenemy Street, received approval from the city council to revise its conditional use permit in order to add a new entrance drive from DeSoto Street, expand its current building and enlarge its parking lot. A condition of the council's approval was for the applicant to bring its site plan, landscaping plan, grading plan, trash enclosure plan and building elevations back to the community design review board (CDRB) for approval. Requests The applicant is requesting: 1. Approval of project and design plans. BACKGROUND On November 24, 1986, the city council granted a conditional use permit for a church at this location. On May 12, 1997, the city council approved a CUP revision and the design plans for this site. These requests were for the church to expand its building by adding space for Sunday school and a solarium to the front of the church. On July 8,2002, the city council approved a CUP revision and design plans for this site. These requests were for the church to expand its parking lot to the south and to add a playground to their property. On December 12, 2011, the city council approved a CUP revision and design plans for this site. These requests were for the church to expand its parking lot, add a new entrance drive and expand its building. DISCUSSION Site and Landscaping Plan The city council required the applicant to bring the site and landscaping plan back to the CDRB for approval. Specifically the council wanted the applicant to list species and caliber inches of the trees to be planted, show landscaping islands within the parking lot, verification of a 100-foot building setback from the north property line and a six-foot tall fence along the south and west property lines. The landscape plan, attached to this report, shows all of these conditions being met. The site plan also shows a six-foot tall 1 00 percent opaque garbage enclosure as required by city code. Building Elevations The applicant has submitted building elevations that detail the materials proposed to be used. The proposed materials include a mix of architecture precast, stucco and metal finishes. The applicant's plans also indicate three colors to be used throughout the building but have not stated what the colors will be. Staff recommends requiring the applicant submit color samples to staff for approval prior to a building permit being issued. Grading and Storm Sewer Plan Council required this plan to be reviewed by the city engineer and approved by the CDRB. Steven Kummer, city engineer, reviewed this plan and has no comments or concerns. He indicated the plan is meeting his requirements from the December 12, 2011 approval. RECOMMENDATION A. Approve the design plans date-stamped April 1 0, 2012, for the parking lot expansion, new driveway and building additions at the St. Paul Hmong Alliance Church, 1770 McMenemy Street. The property owner shall meet the following conditions: 1. Repeat this review in two years if the city has not issued a permit for this expansion. 2. Before getting a grading and building permit, the applicant shall provide staff with: a. A revised site and landscape plan that shows the following: (1) The applicant shall submit a revised landscape plan that lists the plantings proposed in the basins. The plan should specify the number, species, and size of plantings. (2) Location of the underground irrigation system as required by code. (3) Samples of colors to be used on building. 3. Comply with all conditions of approval from the December 12, 2011 city council meeting. REFERENCE INFORMATION SITE DESCRIPTION Lot size: 7.42 acres Existing land use: The St. Paul Hmong Alliance Church SURROUNDING LAND USES North: Single dwellings South: Single dwellings and developing town house development East: DeSoto Street and single dwellings West: The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) highway maintenance facility PLANNING Land Use Plan designation: In (Institutional) Zoning: F (farm residence district) Sec17\1770 McMenemy\1770McMenemL CDRB_042312.doc Attachments: 1. Location Map 2. City Council Minutes, dated December 12,2011 3. Landscape Plan 4. Building Elevations 5. Grading and Sewer Plan 6. Plans date-stamped April 1 0, 2012 (separate attachment) Attachment 1 ~ I I I I w~ \ I I I 00 ~iffiffi ~ I I I I I I 11""11 I B~ I I I ~ r::::ll . I r---T--I SUSSER c;Y I I I SIJMMERJN- ~I I ~I ~ I !>/I 'if; ~ 11[]ll][]JJ]][]]JfJ L-.--.-l m, f-\ \. k /Dm:lfy>;j ~ I r\ITI 1illW m~ V J 1m I I I I ~ RIPLEHVE ~ "" 0'/1 "'{ [J Y I I ~l~n -_R6'~ '6 I1nFB-~~ ! I" rr~ ' ',\1- ~E 'U ~I~ ' " IdLJEd E It=j ~ I~I II I I I~I II I I . .. . MHERNGN AVE ~ I I OJ I I I I I I"" I I I~' I I 7' ~ 'S Location Map Sf Paul Hmong Alliance Church ~ N Attachment 2 Council member Nephew moved to approve the Resolution Adoptinq Findinos of Fact about the City's Trash Collection System Analvsis per Minnesota Statute. Section 115A.94. Subdivision 4(e). Seconded by Mayor Rossbach Ayes - Mayor Rossbach, Councilmembers Juenemann, Llanas and Nephew Nays - Councilmember Koppen The motion passed. J. NEW BUSINESS 1. Conditional Use Permit Revision and Design Review, 51. Paul Hmong Alliance Church, 1770 McMenemy Street (Simple Majority Vote Required) City Planner Ekstrand present the staff report and answered questions of the council. Staff Engineer Kummer answered questions of the council. Planning Commissioner AI Bierbaum addressed the council and gave the Planning Commission report and answered questions of the council. Puneex Vedi from Vedi Associates addressed and answered questions of the council. Jason Lamers from the Community Design Review Board addressed the council and gave the report from the Community Design Review Board. Council member Llanas moved to approve the Resolution for the Conditional Use Permit Revision and Desion Review. St. Paul Hmono Alliance Church. 1770 McMenemv Street with Amendments made bv Mavor Rossbach. RESOLUTION 11-12-668 Conditional Use Permit Revision Conditions and Resolution as made by the City Council on 12 12 11 for the St. Paul Hmong Alliance Church Church Expansion Proposal A. Adopt the resolution revising the conditional use permit for the church at 1770 McMenemy Street. This permit is based on the standards for approval required by the code and subject to the following conditions: 1. All construction shall follow the site plan approved by the city date-stamped October 26, 2011, subject to any conditions required by the Community Design Review Board upon their review of plan revisions to be submitted by the applicant. Staff may approve minor changes. This approval includes the parking lot expansion, the new driveway to DeSoto Street and the proposed building additions. 2. The proposed construction must be substantially started within one year of council approval or the permit shall become null and void. The council may extend this deadline for one year. 3. The applicant shall regularly maintain the grounds and pick up all debris as well as maintain the decorative wood screening fences. 4. The city council shall review this permit in one year. 5. The city council may require the church to limit seating capacity in the main sanctuary if a parking shortage develops. 6. The city council may require the church to make changes to the site, if the council deems it necessary or prudent, during future reviews of the conditional use permit. December 12, 2011 City Council Meeting Minutes 12 Attachment 2 7. The church shall provide a six-foot-tall, solid decorative wood fence, or an equivalent buffer that complies with the city code requirements, to screen the parking lots on the south, west and east sides of the site. Staff will consider a reduction in the number of trees in lieu of the screening fence. The screening plans shall take into account the grade of the site and that of the adjacent properties. 8. The gate at the proposed DeSoto Street entrance must be closed at all times, except for Sundays and during holiday services. The applicant shall provide an annual schedule at the first of each year to the property owners along DeSoto Street indicating the days and times the DeSoto Street driveway will be ungated and open for church use. This schedule must indicate dates, other than Sundays, that the applicant would plan to open the gate for access. B. Approve the plans date-stamped October 26, 2011, along with any subsequent conditions by the community design review board upon their review of the required plan revisions by the applicant, for the parking lot expansion, new driveway and building additions at the St. Paul Hmong Alliance Church, 1770 McMenemy Street. The property owner shall meet the following conditions: 1. Repeat this review in two years if the city has not issued a permit for this expansion. 2. Before getting a grading and building permit, the applicant shall provide the community design review board with: a. A revised site and landscape plan that shows the following: (1) The applicant shall submit a revised landscape plan that lists the plantings proposed in the basins. The plan should specify the number, species, and size of plantings. (2) The applicant must submit a revised landscape plan showing the size of the replacement trees. This plan must comply with the requirements of the tree ordinance. (3) Landscaped islands within the parking lot planted with trees. (4) Building elevations which identify the proposed building materials at a sufficient scale to depict architectural details such as seems in building materials. (5) Location of the underground irrigation system as required by code. (6) A plan for the installation of a six-foot-tall, solid wood screening fence on the south, west and east sides of the site, or an equivalent buffer that would meet code requirements, where the parking lot abuts residential properties. Staff will consider a reduction in the number of trees in lieu of the screening fence. The screening plans shall take into account the grade of the site and that of adjacent properties. (7) Verification that all setback requirements would be met, specifically, providing a 100-foot building setback from the north property line. b. Provide a grading, drainage, utility and erosion control plan to the city engineer for approval. The erosion control plan shall meet ordinance requirements and all the plans shall meet the requirements of the city engineer. December 12, 2011 City Council Meeting Minutes 13 Attachment 2 c. A trash container enclosure plan. The trash enclosure must be compatible with the building and include a 100 percent opaque gate. 3. Resod the lawn that is disturbed by construction activities. 4. Constnuct the required trash container enclosure. 5. Install a stop sign and speed bumps on the new driveway to DeSoto Street. 6. Before obtaining permits for grading and construction, the applicant shall provide staff with a check or an irrevocable letter of credit in the amount of 125 percent of completing landscaping and site improvements. 7. All work shall follow the approved plans. Staff may approve minor changes. 8. Comply with all requirements of the city's engineering report dated November 11, 2011 by Steve Kummer, staff engineer. 9. Comply with all requirements of the assistant fire chief and building official. The Maplewood City Council approved this resolution on December 12,2011. Seconded by Councilmember Juenemann Ayes - All The motion passed. Mayor Rossbach called for a 10 minute recess. K. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS 1. Mark Bradley, Maplewood 2. Bob Cardinal, Maplewood 3. John Wykoff, Maplewood 4. Tim Kinley, Maplewood L. AWARD OF BIDS None. M. ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS 1. Six-Month Review of Myth Nightclub Chief Police Thomalla presented the staff report. N. COUNCIL PRESENTATIONS 1. Appreciation Council member Juenemann thanked the citizens, commissioners and staff for their work through the year and wished them all a wonderful Holiday Season. In closing, she thanked councilmember Nephew for his service to the city the last four years. Council member Llanas gave his thanks and appreciation to councilmember Nephew for his time and energy to the council. December 12, 2011 City Council Meeting Minutes 14 Attachment 2 2. Last Word Mayor Rossbach had the "Last Word" with giving the open mic to councilmember Nephew to have the last word. Councilmember Nephew stated that he enjoyed his term while it came at a cost there were also many rewards. He encouraged citizens to become involved in city government either as a volunteer or a commissioner and thanked his fellow council members and city staff for their service. O. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Rossbach adjourned the meeting at 9:38 p.m. December 12, 2011 City Council Meeting Minutes 15 ;:;~: _';',:~~ ;-,~;" ~' "':,/:'t~:~_"c, '-: ~~""'~ ~~ r )> z CJ "' " )> " m " r )> Z en .... ." " C'l)> > :l:C ~ C.... m "':I: ~ C'l;;;: 0 :1:0 0 )>z " CGl z S!)> " ::!.... " oC " Zl> Z C'l m r ~ ~ ~"""~ ~~~ I ~ ~ t ~ "~~~"C,~l~ Hq~H ",,'uou "I! " . ~ ' . . . . " ~ ~ ~ " ~ ~ ~ I I " .6_ ~n ~ H'i { ~ ,. ,. 1 ~H '0' ~n ; ~ ci ~ n 9~nHr~9H '0 q~ oo,!' "~'I. , " 0 " ~ > g fi !lHH~ , ! !H Attachment 3 I ,- 1 I ill ! ~ , , , , is 'I il Q r ~ 2 """0'- M."',",OD" " ~ I II 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 --~ G 1 1 ,I 111 ~ 1 1 1 , . !Dd. 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" ~ o c ~ c c e c , o ~ ~ II ~I II IIrlB II'Z II" ;ori'1 II' 1I,9.~'.," 11~t:::l fL',," ,m , ; J n:; -" "-l (.d" 8 m ~Iml \~f(~1 m c", I ;D 02 o~~ II ;:;~~i r- 0.... ,I mGj:;:!:1 ~~~ II 6~~ :1 z~~ ;1 "' 'I 'I r=; ,8 iR --I "'oo_} : ,:;; .m ~~ ~ '" m ~ x " ~ m ~ ~ m 6 x ~ ~ -l ~ m c ~ , ;D 0 " is " m ~ ;D m ~ c m ::: ^ ~ m m , < :;: 0 -l is L Z f--J o " ~z.??t ~ot:. "...", c'2j"Z ~-;o~ - '" ~ ST PAUL HMONG AllIANCE CHURCH ADDmON 1770 McMENEMY STREET MAPLEWOOO, MN 55117 ~I .~ 11 ; . ~:2: . m ,W -l m X m -l Z " m x -l m '" <5 '" m r m :;: -l <5 z W:q-r. 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';ll-';: c-rl:z 00,.. -,';ll';ll o z; (J) -f OQ "" s" ,(f}CJ rn- ijii5 "" ."z <;;0 Z ,,/-'-- en -f ;::::Jin~ ~2:ic:J:C: ...:' r- ~~.!~:I: oml i: QZ1:J:.o P~r)>Z :1:-<!CQ zeniC ~:iI!::j~ ::::~Ioc -'-1lz> z, 01 "'I ! . ~ "....$f"'Ii-:"l , ,~ ~ \: o '" .' ,I :I~, r !I\'j 1 " 1 ) I( I,' 1\ 1\ _, Ii '_, ,......--1 ~~~..~~;:C~" : --l :li' . .i \\ " " " " (..-~ ~ ,~~~' MEMORANDUM SUBJECT: LOCATION: DATE: James Antonen, City Manager Tom Ekstrand, Senior Planner Charles Ahl, Assistant City Manager Sign Setback Variances-Holiday Stationstore 280 McKnight Road South April 18, 2012 TO: FROM: INTRODUCTION Project Description Dave Edquist, representing Holiday Stationstores,lnc, is proposing to install a four-foot by eight-foot changeable copy, dynamic display sign panel in each of Holiday's freestanding signs. The sign spacing requirements in the sign ordinance require that dynamic display signs have the following minimum separations: . 200 feet from a park or open space . 200 feet from a residential lot line . 100 feet from a side property line Requests This proposal will require the following variances (refer to the applicant's attached narrative and justification): Northerlv Freestandina SiQn . Reduction of the spacing requirement from the Ramsey County Regional Park from 200 to 90 feet (110 foot variance). . Reduction of the spacing requirement from the townhome property to the south from 200 to 180 feet (20 foot variance). Southerlv Freestandina SiQn . Reduction of the spacing from the town home property to the south from 200 to 25 feet (175 foot variance). . Reduction of the side yard spacing requirement from 100 feet to 25 feet (75 foot variance). DISCUSSION Code's Intent The dynamic display sign ordinance provides restrictions to the spacing of such signs in order to: . Minimize driver distraction . Minimize their proliferation in residential districts where such signs can adversely impact residential character, and . Protect the public health, safety and welfare The code further states that, without sign spacing requirements: "There is the potential for numerous dynamic displays to exist along any roadway. If more than one dynamic display can be seen from a given location on a road, the minimum display time becomes critical. If the display time is too short, a driver could be subjected to a view that appears to have constant movement. This impact on drivers would be compounded in a traffic corridor with multiple signs. If dynamic displays become pervasive and there are no meaningful limitations on each sign's ability to change frequently, drivers may be subject to an unsafe degree of distraction and sensory overload. Therefore, requiring a limit on display times on dynamic signs is in the public interest." To summarize, the goals of the spacing requirements in the ordinance is to: 1) Preserve the residential character of neighborhoods. 2) Protect health, safety and welfare by limiting unsafe distraction and sensory overload for drivers. Staff's Evaluation Driver Impact Staff does not feel that the proposed dynamic display sign panels would be detrimental to drivers. The proposed signs would be attached to existing pylon signs that face different directions-the northerly one facing east/west and the southerly one north/south. Therefore, they would not be readable from the same direction and would not create the appearance of sign proliferation or a distraction to drivers. Also, there are no other businesses along either McKnight Road or Lower Afton Road in Maplewood who might wish to utilize such signs thus adding to sign proliferation. This is an automatically-limiting aspect guarding against additional dynamic displays as opposed to typical commercial districts with many businesses along a roadway. Another factor is that the both the Holiday Stationstore and the Shamrock Center to the west have quite a substantial commercial visual impact with their building, signs, lighting, 2 fueling centers and traffic activity. Staff feels that the addition of two four by eight foot dynamic display sign panels would not add significantly to the Holiday site or this commercial intersection. Residential Impact Staff does not feel that the proposed dynamic display sign panels would be detrimental to the abutting town homes to the east or south. The town homes to the south are well screened by evergreens on the Holiday site. Those to the east are over 200 feet away so the required separation would be met. There are also trees to buffer the sign from those townhomes. Park and Open Space Impact The proposed dynamic display sign on the north pylon sign would not adversely impact the Ramsey County Regional Park open space. This is not an active-recreation part of the park. Therefore, staff does not feel there would be any negative impact to park aesthetics as there could be if there were abutting picnic grounds, for example. Largely, with the exception of a segment of the pedestrian trail north of Lower Alton Road, there is nothing to be affected by the addition of the proposed sign panel, only woodlands. And as stated above, the visual impact of the existing site is considerably greater than the addition of the proposed sign panel. State Law Findinqs All variances must follow the requirements provided in Minnesota State Statutes. State law requires that variances shall only be permitted when they are found to be: 1. In harmony with the general purposes and intent of the official control; 2. Consistent with the comprehensive plan; 3. When there are practical difficulties in complying with the official control. "Practical difficulties" means that the property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by an official control. 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. Staff feels that because of the right-angle orientation of the two signs, along with the wooded nature of the nearby regional park, the proposed sign panels would be in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the ordinance. This orientation would prevent the two proposed sign panels from being seen at the same time and becoming potentially distracting to drivers as same-orientation signs might. The two proposed signs would also be consistent with the comprehensive plan. They provide commercial- development elements that would match this commercial site and conform to the goals of the comprehensive plan. There are practical difficulties in complying with the spacing requirements of the ordinance. According to statute, practical difficulties mean that the applicant would use the property in a "reasonable manner" not permitted by the ordinance. In this case, it seems reasonable to staff to allow both signs, because: 3 . The evergreens on the south side of the property would buffer the proposed sign from the nearby neighbors. . The two Holiday signs are set at right angles to each other preventing the appearance of "sign proliferation," "sign clutter" or adding to "sign distraction" for these proposed dynamic display sign panels. . The nearby part of the Battle Creek Regional Park is a non-active park. The sign would not detract from the enjoyment of this open space since it is a wooded area and the only active element is a trail section within the woods. . The site is extensively developed with a commercial building, fuel islands, fueling canopy, and lighting and is affected by a significant amount of commercial activity. Considering that, two four by eight foot signs would not be a significant addition to this existing commercial site. RECOMMENDATION Adopt the attached resolution approving the following sign-separation variances for 280 McKnight Road South: Northerlv FreestandinQ Siqn . Reduction of the spacing requirement from the Ramsey County Regional Park from 200 to 90 feet (110 foot variance). . Reduction of the spacing requirement from the town home property to the south from 200 to 180 feet (20 foot variance). Southerlv Freestandina SiQn . Reduction of the spacing from the town home property to the south from 200 to 25 feet (175 foot variance). . Reduction of the side yard spacing requirement from 100 feet to 25 feet (75 foot variance). Approval of these variances is based on the following findings: 1. Because of the right-angle orientation of the two signs, along with the wooded nature of the nearby regional park, the proposed sign panels would be in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the ordinance. This orientation would prevent them from being seen at the same time and becoming potentially distracting to drivers as could same-orientation signs. 4 2. The proposed dynamic display sign panel on the north pylon sign is set at a right angle to the wooded open space across Lower Afton Road making it less noticeable from that direction. 3. The two proposed signs would be consistent with the comprehensive plan. They provide commercial-development elements that would be compatible with this commercial site and conform to the goals of the comprehensive plan. 4. There are practical difficulties in complying with the spacing requirements of the ordinance. According to statute, practical difficulties mean that the applicant would use the property in a "reasonable manner" not permitted by the ordinance. In this case, it seems reasonable to staff to allow both signs, because: . The evergreens on the south side of the property would buffer the proposed sign from the nearby neighbors. . The two proposed Holiday dynamic display signs would be set at right angles to each other preventing the appearance of "sign proliferation," "sign clutter" or adding to "sign distraction." . The abutting part of the Battle Creek Regional Park is a non-active park. The sign would not be a detraction since this is a wooded area and the only active element is a trail section within the woods. . The site is extensively developed with a commercial building, fuel islands, fueling center and lighting. It is also affected by a significant amount of commercial activity. Considering that, two four by eight foot signs would not be a significant addition to this existing commercial site. Approval is subject to compliance with the following condition: All of the evergreen trees on the south side of the site and south of the southerly pylon sign shall remain. If these evergreens are removed for any reason, whether by the natural death of the trees or by their intentional removal, the south-facing dynamic display sign panel shall be removed. 5 REFERENCE SITE DESCRIPTION Site size: Existing Use: 1.16 acres Holiday Stationstore SURROUNrnNGLANDUSES North: South: East: West: Lower Afton Road and Battle Creek Regional Park Afton Ridge Town Homes Afton Ridge Town Homes McKnight Road and Shamrock Center in the City of St. Paul PLANNING Land Use Plan Designation: C (commercial) Zoning: BC (business commercial) Criteria for Variance Approval Section 44-13 of the city code allows the city council to grant variances. All variances must follow the requirements provided in Minnesota State Statutes. State law requires that variances shall only be permitted when they are found to be: 1. In harmony with the general purposes and intent of the official control; 2. Consistent with the comprehensive plan; 3. When there are practical difficulties in complying with the official control. "Practical difficulties" means that the property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by an official control. 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. APPLICATION DATE I REVIEW DEADLINE State statute requires that the city complete its review of these requests within 60 days of having a complete application. The date for the materials having been considered to be complete by the city is March 30, 2012. Therefore, deadline for the city's decision on this request is May 29,2012. 6 SEC12-28\Holiday Stationstore Sign Variance CDRB PC 5 12 te Attachments: 1. Location / Zoning Map 2. Land Use Map 3. Site Plan / Neighborhood Map 4. Applicant's Written Narrative and Sign Variance Justification 5. Existing Freestanding Signs 6. Proposed Dynamic Display Message Center Placement 7. Variance Resolution 8. Photographs date-stamped March 30, 2012 (Separate Attachment) 7 Attachment 1 LOCATION I ZONING MAP f (/) o 0:: r- :r: z ::.:: o :::i: HOLIDAY STATION LOCATION 3i:!l~ $1: ;i}$. :;>11 ~4 Q N ::1 417 ens 41& 41il 415 ~;Q L14 4'"-1 +1' +1, 411 >1,24 "Affdi RD w ::1 ~: $11 ",13 Q :>16 )1$1 J 300::<11 rrl3 '::14 215 Z1$; '0:14: f.1 Kr-IlGHI RO " o 338 ~ '" !l .... !.:': f;. N ... M r1 3$1 353 3st 338 Q,OJiOo5l OJ} 1: Mite -- 320m 112 113114 II! 116 328 Copyright MaplewoodBaseMap Chad Bergo Parcels: This data set IS available to everyone. Fees and policy are published In the Ramsey County Fee Schedule, Charges are variable and are subject to change, See the Ramsey County Fee Schedule for specific information on fees and policy. http://maps.ci.maplewood.mn.lls/aspnet_client/ESRI/WebADF/PrintTaskLaYOllt' lemplates/defalllt.htm 4II 8/2012 ~I ~~ C!:J I.i3 '" ~ o . ~ /'<"111 ~ 8." ~ I Attachment 2 ~ ~ () <{ ID l1)o 1.1...0 ..,. '" ~ Q) 0. ell :t:: i:: ~ ::J Q) 0. U) ell T""" :t:: Ie Q) tq:J u oC! <{ ';..;..-'(O~ I- ~ T"" ~ o ...... ell ......... ~ c ::J o z >zO <l:Oi= Cl-< :JI-U O~O J:(/)"J o o "'. '<c" iii ~<C! Q)\:::!- :Q lJ) iii (1) '';::; 0:: a; ~~ .- ell ell Q) a; 0:: Cl >- +- ::: 'en o c .....l Q) Cl ::: o ..J ro :.t:' C Q) 1::l '01 Q) 0:: >- :=: lJ) c Q) Cl E ::l 1::l Q) :2 ro :;::; c <J.) T""" 1::l '(j) C"? Q) 0:: C! Z'~ ro '(ij '(3 c: I- m (1) (]).;:: Cl E (jj .s::; E::l .91 0 1::l J: () C o o 5 N z< Attachment 3 Holiday Station Sign Request ~ EXISTING I'REESTANDING SIGN -j " LOWER AFTON ROAD ( u HOLIDAY STATION 2.80 t:Ll ~ EXISTING FREESTANDING SIGN s (".! "dr' <"'.l o .~ // Copyright MaplewoodBaseMap Chad Bergo Parcels: This data set is available to everyone. Fees and policy are published in the Ramsey County Fee Schedule, Charges are variable and are subject to change. See the Ramsey County Fee Schedule for specific information on fees and policy. SITE PLAN I NEIGHBORHOOD MAP http://rnaps.ci.rnaplewood.rnn.us/aspnct_client/ESRI/WebADF/PrinfI'askLayoutTernplates/default.htm 4/17/2012 Attachment 4 Attachment to the request of Holiday Stationstores for certain variances to allow a dynamic display as part of the existing freestanding signs at our Stationstore at 280 South McKnight Rd. A. Our Request Holiday Stationstores proposes to replace the mechanieaUy changeable "Reader Board" panels on both freestanding signswith4 ftx 8ft electronicailychangcable dynamicdisplaypanels. See the attached illustration 1 Before and After, 2 Aerial viewq[ our site &photos J a &bPresentnorther(v (fl1dsoutherlyft'eestandingsigns. To aCC0111I110date lhisreplacenlcnt at this site OJ'OUf 11lechanicallychatlgeablenlcssage sign panels with sign panelS where the message can be changed electronically these variances from the citywide spacing reqUirements for dYllamic display signs will be required. 1. For the conversion of the northerly freestanding sign a. Reduction oftlie required spacing from apark or open space district (Battle Creek Regional Park) from 200 ft to 90 ft. b. Reduction of the required spaciug from a residential property (Afton Ridge 300 c.. 320 McKnight Rd S) from 200 ft to 180 n. 2. For thccOl1versioti oflhe southerly freestanding sign a. Reduction of the required spacing from a residential property (Alton Ridge 300 ~ 320 McKnight Rd S) from 200 n to 25 n. b. Reductiollofthc required spacing from a side property liIlcfrom 100 ft to 25 1'1, B. COlllprehensive Plan Our site is recognized on the Vista Hills Land Use Plan as Commercial and is zoned Business CommcrciaLThc continued use ofthe site by Holiday is consistent with and implements the Comprehensive Plan andZoning Code. The planned transitional higher density multifamily use surrounding our sile has been Implement and is in place. Across McKnight from our 5iteln St. Paul the Shamrock Center and adjacent apartments confirm and reinforce the cOlllmercialactivity designation and character of the intersection. C, flannbny At this site the combination of the specific conditionsofthc size and location of the proposed dynamic displays; the character of the commercial district and the limited potential for the proposed dynamic displays to define or change it; and therelationship of our site and t"i-eestanding signs to the adjoining open space and residential uses create the condition Ihatallows the requested variances to he conHdenlly grantedalld the ])roposed dynamic displays installed at this site in hanuciny with thei11tent and purpose of the land use regulations and with no adverse other nUlsance eftec{sor impediments on our neighbors ()r the community. The proposed dynamic displays will be in harmony \vilhoursurroundings by these specific teatures. I. The character and controls on the proposed dynamic displays. a. The dynamic displays area replacement of one changcablemessagetechnoJogy \\'ith another, newer and as specifically regulatedinthe City Code, compatible technology. h. The l'eIJlacemcnl will occur onlh(:' existing freestanding signs. No new signs wi11 he i Attachment to the request of Holiday Stationstores for certain variances to allow a dynamic display as part of the existing freestanding signs at our Stationstore at 280 South McKnight Rd. c. The dynamic disptay area wit! represent less than one-third of the display area of the total sign face it wit! be part of. d. The replacement will occur on the lower portion of the existing signs, minimizing the visibility of the dynamic displays at distance from our site. See photo 4 context of lower panel. e. The proposed dynamic disptays will conform with each of the significant operationat standards of Sec. 44- 743 (c) Standards for at! dynamic disptay signs including the brightness standards and (d) On-site dynamic display signs. These standards regutate message continuity, letter height, mat function, brightness, prohibition moving images and transition and duration of the display. 2. The context of tile present commercial development at McKnight and Lower Afton. a. The combination of our site and the Shamrock Center across McKnight in St. Paul provides an established and significant commercial character for the area and the context for the proposed dynamic displays on our site. See photo 5 Shamrock Center. b. This commercial character and context in combination with the limited and compatible dynamic signs described in the above paragraph will not be intensified and will provide a context for and easily mitigate any potentiat negative effects of the proposed dynamic displays. c. The commercial activity of Shamrock Center extends beyond the location of our southerly sign. 3. The relationship to and character of Battle Creek Regionat Park across Lower Afton Rd from our site. a. The Park is passive rather than active in character, minimizing the number of people who could see the dynamic disptay while using the Park. b. The Lower Afton Rd. edge of the Park has a heavy tree cover, blocking the any view from the interior of the park to the dynamic display and the commercial district at McKnight and Lower Afton. See photo 6 Battle Creek Park. c. The Lower Afton Rd. edge of the Park is elevated approximately 15 ft about the grade of our site. The dynamic display on our northerly sign wilt be beneath the elevation of this ridge along Lower Afton. d. The dynamic display will not be visible from the entrance and parking areas of the Park and there are no interior trails within the Park near the site of the dynamic displays. e. The edge, not the face of the dynamic sign is oriented to the Park. f. The dynamic display wilt be visible from the trail along Lower Afton Rd but at the height proposed they will be within the context of the background of either our Stationstore or the Shamrock Center, and the signs on the other twowthirds of the present freestanding sign. See photo 7 view from the trail. g. The commercial and multifamily development extending along Lower Afton across from the Park in both St. Paul and Maplewood provide a significant, developed and coherent contrast to the open space use in the Park that will not be intensified by the inclusion of the proposed dynamic signs. 4. The relationship to and character of the adjacent residential development and side yard. a. The grade of the residences is approximately 15 ft above the grade of our site allowing the view from the residences to be over rather than into our site. See photo 8 Change in grade to Alton Ridge. b. A 70 ft wide yard has been provided between our site the residential buildings to accommodate this change in grade. c. This yard has been planted with a now mature and effective conifer buffer. See photo 9 Established bt!ffer area. 2 Attachment to the request of Holiday Stationstores for certain variances to allow a dynamic display as part of the existing freestanding signs at our Stationstore at 280 South McKnight Rd. d. The reptacement of the present changeable message on the freestanding signs, especialty at the height and location proposed will not intensify or change the overall commercial character of our site or the nearby resident's experience of it. See photos 10. 11 & 12 View from the corner of Afton Ridge residences. D. Practical Difficulty Area 672 sf 32 sf The practical difficulty for accommodating the replacement of the changeable copy portion of our freestanding signs with dynamic disptays is the application of the same city wide spacing requirements for dynamic displays whether they are a 672 sf billboard display or a 32 sf display that is part of an on site freestanding sign. Dimension 14 Itx 48 It 4ltx81t Height 35 It Lowest part of a freestanding sign Context None Other panels on the sign face, activity on site The same 200 ft spacing from an open space or residentially used property, and the 100 ft spacing from a side lot line is required whether the dynamic display is a billboard or part of a freestanding business sign. These are very different signs with the potential for very different effects due to their area, height and context or lack thereof. The difficulty is it is not practical or always necessary to apply the same standard to a display that is almost 28 times smaller than a billboard. Especially when the mitigation provided by these standards is not required due the character and controls on the proposed on site dynamic displays, the context of the present commercial development at McKnight and Lower Afton, the relationship to and character of Battle Creek Regionat Park across Lower Afton Rd from our site and the relationship to and character of the Afton Ridge residential development and side yard. We appreciate the staff and Commission's interest in investigating whether due to the specific purpose and scope of our proposal, the specific conditions found at the intersection of McKnight and Lower Afton, the specific relationship of the proposed dynamic displays to the Battle Creek Regional Park open space, and the specific relationship of the proposed dynamic displays to the adjacent residences. We ask you to use these specific conditions to support the findings necessary to grant the needed variances to allow this important and reasonable investment to update our site and our service to our neighbors which will not alter the essential character of our site or the locality. 3/29/12 3 Attachment 5 Application of Holiday Stationstores for Certain Variances at 280 South McKnight Road PROPOSED DYNAMIC DISPLAY ELECTRONIC MESSAGE PANEL LOCATIONS REPLACE EXISTING CHANGEABLE MESSAGE PANELS 3a Northerly Sign 3b Southerly Sign EXISTING FREESTANDING SIGNS Attachment 6 Application of Holiday Stationstores for Certain Variances at 280 South McKnight Road PROPOSED 4ft x 8 ft MESSAGE PANEL TO BE PLACED ON EACH FREESTANDING SIGN 1 Proposed dynamic display on each freestanding sign EXISTING SIGNS PROPOSED 48 6' X 8' Holiday ID sign 48 28 3'6" x 8' 1-product LED price 28 sign 4'1-1/4" x 7'5-5/16" full color 30,55 electronic message center 16 2' x 8' CAR WASH sign 16 28 3'6" x 8' tracked reader board sign 120 TOTAL SIGN AREA 122.55 PROPOSED DYNAMIC DISPLAY MESSAGE CENTER PLACEMENT Attachment 7 VARIANCE RESOLUTION WHEREAS, Dave Edquist, of Holiday Stationstores, Inc, applied for the following sign spacing variances for the Holiday Stationstore at 280 McKnight Road South, in order to install dynamic display message signs on their two existing freestanding sign structures: Northerlv Freestandina SiQn . Reduction of the spacing requirement from the Ramsey County Regional Park from 200 to 90 feet (110 foot variance). . Reduction of the spacing requirement from the town home property to the south from 200 to 180 feet (20 foot variance). Southerlv FreestandinQ Sian . Reduction of the spacing from the town home property to the south from 200 to 25 feet (175 foot variance). . Reduction of the side yard spacing requirement from 100 feet to 25 feet (75 foot variance). WHEREAS, the legal description of this property is: That part of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 12, Township 28, Range 22, Ramsey County, Minnesota, described as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the west line of said Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter and the south line of the North 362.00 feet of said Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter; thence easterly along said south line 40.01 feet to the actual point of beginning; thence southerly parallel with the west line of said Northwest Quarter of Section 12, 205.00 feet; thence easterly at a right angle to last described line, 245.00 feet; thence northerly, parallel with the west line of said Northwest Quarter of Section 12, a distance of 211.21 feet to its intersection with the south line of the north 362.00 feet of said Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter; thence westerly along said south line, 245.08 feet to the point of beginning. Except: That part of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 12, Township 28, Range 22, Ramsey county, Minnesota, described as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the west line of said Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter and the south line of the North 362.00 feet of said Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter; thence easterly along said south line 40.01 feet to the actual point of beginning; thence southerly parallel with the west line of said Northwest Quarter of Section 12, 205.00 feet; thence easterly at a right angle to last described line, 3.00 feet; thence northerly parallel with the west line of said Northwest Quarter of Section 12, a distance of 205.00 feet to its intersection with the south line of the north 362.00 feet of said Northwest Quarter of Northwest Quarter; thence westerly along said south line, 3.00 feet to the point of beginning. WHEREAS, Section 44-743, Dynamic Display Signs, requires that dynamic display signs observe the following minimum separations: . 200 feet from a park or open space . 200 feet from a residential lot line . 100 feet from a side property line WHEREAS, the history of this variance is as follows: 1. On April 24, 2012 the community design review board recommended that the city council this variance. 2. The planning commission held a public hearing on May 1, 2012. City staff published a notice in the Maplewood Review and sent notices to the surrounding property owners as required by law. The planning commission gave everyone at the hearing an opportunity to speak and present written statements. The council also considered reports and recommendations from the city staff. The planning commission recommended that the city council this variance. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the city council described variances based on the following findings: the above- 1. Because of the right-angle orientation of the two signs, along with the wooded nature of the nearby regional park, the proposed sign panels would be in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the ordinance. This orientation would prevent them from being seen at the same time and becoming potentially distracting to drivers as could same-orientation signs. 2. The proposed dynamic display sign panel on the north pylon sign is set at a right angle to the wooded open space across Lower Afton Road making it less noticeable from that direction. 3. The two proposed signs would be consistent with the comprehensive plan. They provide commercial-development elements that would be compatible with this commercial site and conform to the goals of the comprehensive plan. 4. There are practical difficulties in complying with the spacing requirements of the ordinance. According to statute, practical difficulties mean that the applicant would use the property in a "reasonable manner" not permitted by the ordinance. In this case, it seems reasonable to staff to allow both signs, because: . The evergreens on the south side of the property would buffer the proposed sign from the nearby neighbors. . The two proposed Holiday dynamic display signs would be set at right angles to each other preventing the appearance of "sign proliferation," "sign clutter" or adding to "sign distraction." . The abutting part of the Battle Creek Regional Park is a non-active park. The sign would not be a detraction since this is a wooded area and the only active element is a trail section within the woods. . The site is extensively developed with a commercial building, fuel islands, fueling center and lighting. It is also affected by a significant amount of commercial activity. Considering that, two four by eight foot signs would not be a significant addition to this existing commercial site. Approval is subject to compliance with the following condition: All of the evergreen trees on the south side of the site and south of the southerly pylon sign shall remain. If these evergreens are removed for any reason, whether by the natural death of the trees or by their intentional removal, the south-facing dynamic display sign panel shall be removed. The Maplewood City Council this resolution on ,2012. MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: LOCATION: DATE: James Antonen, City Manager Michael Martin, AICP, Planner Men's Warehouse Comprehensive Sign Plan Amendment, Maplewood Mall 3001 White Bear Avenue April 18, 2012 INTRODUCTION Rick Fox, of Crosstown Signs representing Men's Warehouse, is requesting approval of a comprehensive sign plan amendment for the Maplewood Mall, located at 3001 White Bear Avenue. Simon Properties owns the mall and supports this request. The site currently has a comprehensive sign plan in place that regulates the placement of signs for the mall. Comprehensive sign plans are required for commercial buildings with five or more tenants. Request The applicant is proposing to install a wall sign for the Men's Warehouse. DISCUSSION The Maplewood Mall does not have set criteria for exterior wall signage. Rather the comprehensive sign plan for this site requires every sign to come before the community design board for approval. Historically, only the four major anchors had exterior signage, besides the Maplewood Mall's own signage. More recently, exterior signs have been approved for tenants such as Barnes and Noble and H & M. Barnes and Noble has a direct access point to the mall parking lot where H & M does not. The proposed Men's Warehouse exterior sign would be in the northwest corner of the mall building between Macy's and Kohl's. The Men's Warehouse will not have a direct access point to the mall parking lot but is the first store as you enter the common mall entrance. Men's Warehouse will be located on the first floor directly adjacent to Macy's. Staff finds the proposed exterior wall signage acceptable. Staff would encourage the CDRB to consider the impacts of tenant exterior signage in the future in case additional requests are made to the city. Appeals For reference purposes, the applicant, staff and city council may appeal the CDRB's decision. An appeal shall be presented within 15 days of the CDRB decision. If the decision is appealed, staff will schedule a hearing with the city council. RECOMMENDATION Approve the plans date-stamped April 9, 2012 for a comprehensive sign plan amendment to allow an exterior wall sign for Men's Warehouse at the Maplewood Mall, 3001 White Bear Avenue. REFERENCE INFORMATION SITE DESCRIPTION Site size: 68.78 acres Existing Use: Regional Mall SURROUNDING LAND USES North: Commercial properties South: Commercial properties and Metro Transit Park and Ride Ramp East: Commercial properties West: Commercial properties PLANNING Land Use Plan: C (commercial) Zoning: BC (business commercial) APPLICATION DATE Staff received the complete application and plans for this proposal on April 1 0, 2012. State law requires that the city take action within 60 days of receiving complete applications. A decision on this request is required by June 9, 2012, unless the city extends this review period an additional 60 days. p: sec 2NIMensWarehouse_Sign Plan Amendment_042412 Attachments 1. Location Map 2. Mall Site Plan 3. Proposed Exterior Wall Sign 4. Mall Entrance Rendering 2 Attachment 1 Maplewood Mall 3001 White Bear Avenue "" D , DD~DD ~ .Q" N Location Map s f ! f .$Il " . ! Attachr1j\;'fl~2 'hll h:~t~ u~l~l t!H '1'<1 f;U' :.If~fl ,'u "lil '1"[ . 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I II ~ I I ac~tnent 4 . . lif II~f If lill ~ I~ 5 II \l ;;I~ ii1 I i hi Ii! ii ~ , II II~I i il~ ~ I I <l 5 li~ ro i MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: LOCATION: DATE: James Antonen, City Manager Michael Martin, AICP, Planner 3M Monument Sign 3M Center April 18, 2012 INTRODUCTION Brendan Sapienza, of Meyer Scherer and Rockcastle and representing 3M, has requesting time to present to the community design review board (CDRB) regarding the 3M's plan to replace its main monument sign. Comprehensive sign plans are required for large campuses consisting of buildings and land of ten or more acres; however no action is being requested at this time. This presentation will strictly be informational and the applicant wants feedback from the CDRB. BACKGROUND Last August, the applicant received approval to install a new monument sign in the same location as the current monument sign. The location is south of Building 229, north of Hudson Road and visible from Interstate 94. Since this approval 3M has decided it would like to go in another direction regarding it's sign. DISCUSSION In the past, exterior signage at 3M has been approved on a case-by-case basis during the construction or remodeling of various buildings throughout the campus. Therefore, there are no specific sign criteria for the exterior signage of 3M; just that each sign gets approved individually to ensure consistency and compatibility. The current monument sign is a 12'x12' cube with the 3M logo on all four sides. The recently approved monument sign would be 25' tall and 12'8" wide and have the 3M logo on two sides. The proposed monument sign would have a white- coated background and a red, LED 3M logo. The applicant has submitted a report to the city outlining its process for designing a new, proposed sign. Please refer to this report for the April 24, 012 CDRB meeting. RECOMMENDATION Refer to the attachments for a discussion to be held at the next CDRB meeting. p: sec 36\3M\3M_Monumnet Sign_042412 Attachments 1. Site and Landscaping Plans 2. Existing Monument Sign 3. Recently Approved Monument Sign 4. 3M Report; The Obelisk: Chain Reaction ~ > 00 I . I .. . " " ~ $ $ ~ ~ ~ ~ e > 2 m " m 2 I I , m ~ o ;;: ~ ~ ~ , I , I ~ ~ D~ g & Ii 000 ~ ~ s IIi Ii? ~ ~ 00 0':000 ~ ~ g 8 ~ ~ ~ ~ ;r i!j ~ ~ ;i; ~ ~ OHn ~ ;j c' ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ . w 00 8~ ~ f ii ~ - ~ ~ !! ~ II I I . ~H @ C! 'fliT In r ~ ;' iii '.' 'II ~ [: ~ i: ,.t~ - ()l --< -< " r;; ~ S ~!i ~ ~1~ ~ i~ i L > Q ~ ! ~ ~ 8TH vpw U 0 ~ ~ " A ZN ~N ,,~ ~ " ~ w w " t.l . I f1 \' I\~, \ \ \ \ i i I 'l / \ (1Jii!I j> 0~ f"\o \ ~~ \ ( ~b s: ~. z ~o ~ ~. ~o w {) \.\~.. - , - ,. ( " ______/u-~\V~ I (,?IE : _____/ OJ' )/.~, ~~ I: ~~ ~ I ~~ ~ ~I \ .,,,-' ~r--~-""''''' ~ 1() do ~" ~. D w N :l o 00 ~ " ~ b I .J n Q 8~ ~ - ~ , 00 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ""'~ :...:-=-:. 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I' :n 3M Attachment 4 3M Attachment 4 @ @ o o should 3M e, _ -', -', -, Attachment 4 \'1011 In 3M 3M An Attachment 4 or Center will t Attachment 4 ~ ~ ~ ~ . .. .. Attachment 4 Center t Attachment 4 ~ ~ ~ ~ . .. .. Attachment 4 Center t Attachment 4 ~ ~ ~ ~ . MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: DATE: Community Design Review Board Members Michael Martin, AICP, Planner Charles Ahl, Assistant City Manager Election of Officers April 18, 2012 INTRODUCTION The City of Maplewood's Commission Handbook requires the community design review board (CDRB) elect a chairperson and vice-chairperson. Matt Ledvina currently serves as chairperson and Matt Wise as vice chairperson. DISCUSSION The Commission Handbook states officers should be elected at the first regular meeting in December. However, the CDRB did not hold elections in December, so the commission will need to nominate and elect officers at its meeting in April. Staff is recommending the CDRB elect a chairperson and vice-chairperson to serve in 2012. On April 24, 2012, nominations will be taken for officers to serve through 2012. The handbook has a section which deals with the role of the chairperson and vice chairperson. Below is the excerpt from the handbook: Role of the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson Commissions generally appoint the chair and vice chair at set times of the year. Although the appointment is usually for a year, the chair and vice chair serve at the pleasure of the commission The willingness and ability of an individual to serve as the chair or vice chair should be taken into consideration Commissions should try to give all commissioners an opportunity to serve as chair. The responsibility of service as chair or vice chair does take extra time. Responsibilities of the Chair: . Preside at all official meetings of the board, commission, or committee. . Consult with the staff liaison in drafting the meeting agenda. . Attend City Council meetings, in person or through another commissioner as designee, as needed to represent the commission, board, or committee with the approval of the commission, board, or committee. . Sign correspondence from the commission with the approval of the City Council. The effective chairperson also, during meetings: . Solicits opinions and positions from reticent commission members. . Protects new thoughts from being rejected prior to fair evaluation . Discourages blame-orientated statements. . Keeps the discussion focused on the issue. . Builds trust by even handedness and fairness to all the participants. Responsibilities of the Vice Chair . Substitute for the Chair as needed. The section is silent on the procedure for election of the chairperson and vice chairperson. CDRB members should voice nominations for chair and vice chair, and the body will then vote for the positions. If only one nomination emerges for each position, a motion can be made to formally appoint that person to the post. If there is more than one nomination, the CDRB should vote publicly to decide which candidate will be appointed. RECOMMENDATION Consider nominations and elect a chairperson and vice chairperson for 2012.