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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/09/2002BOOk AGENDA MAPLEWOOD COMMUNITY DESIGN REVIEW BOARD July 9, 2002 6:00 P.M. Maplewood City Hall Council Chambers 1830 County Road B East 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Call to Order Roll Call Approval of Agenda Approval of the June 25, 2002, Minutes Unfinished Business: None Scheduled Design Review: a. Access Power- 1832 Gervais Court b. Beaver Lake Townhomes - South of Maryland Avenue, between Sterling Street and Lakewood Drive Visitor Presentations Board Presentations: Council Meeting Member Longrie-Kline's review of the July 8, 2002, City Staff Presentations: Community Design Review Board Representation at the July 22, 2002, City Council Meeting 10. Adjourn WELCOME TO THIS MEETING OF THE COMMUNITY DESIGN REVIEW BOARD This outline has been prepared to explain the review process of this meeting. The review of an item usually follows this format. 1. The chairperson of the meeting will announce the item to be reviewed. The chairperson will ask the applicant or developer of the project up to the podium to respond to the staff's recommendation regarding the proposal. The Community Design Review Board will then discuss the proposed project with the applicant. The chairperson will then ask the audience if there is anyone present who wishes to comment on the proposal. After everyone is the audience wishing to speak has given his or her comments, the chairperson will close the public discussion portion of the meeting. 5. The Board will then discuss the proposal. No further public comments are allowed. 6. The Board will then make its recommendations or decision. Most decisions by the Board are final, unless appealed to the City Council. You must notify the City staff in writing within 15 days to register an appeal. jw\forms\cdrb.agd Revised: 11-09-94 II. III. IV, Mm DRAFT MINUTES OF THE MAPLEWOOD COMMUNITY DESIGN REVIEW BOARD 1830 COUNTY ROAD B EAST, MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA TUESDAY, JUNE 25, 2002 CALL TO ORDER Chairperson Shankar called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. ROLL CALL Matt Ledvina Craig Jorgenson Diana Longrie-Kline Linda Olson Ananth Shankar Staff Present: APPROVAL OF AGENDA Absent Absent Present Present Present Shann Finwall, Associate Planner Lisa Kroll, Recording Secretary Board member Olson moved to approve the agenda. Board member Longrie-Kline seconded. Ayes -Longrie-Kline, Olson, Shankar The motion passed. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approval of the CDRB minutes for June 11, 2002. Board member Longrie-Kline made a correction on page 5 in the 13th paragraph, Change the word commons area to common area. Board member Olson moved approval of the minutes of June 11, 2002, with the amended change. Board member Longrie-Kline seconded. The motion passed. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. Ayes ---Longrie-Kline, Olson, Shankar Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 2 VI. DESIGN REVIEW a. Sinclair Gas Station - 223 Larpenteur Avenue East Ms. Finwall said Sinclair Oil Corporation is proposing to expand and remodel the Sinclair gas station located at 223 Larpenteur Avenue East. The expansion includes a 290-square-foot addition to the convenience store, refacing of the convenience store, and construction of a 50- foot x 56-foot, 2,800-square-foot, fuel-island canopy. The six existing fuel dispensers will be replaced with four new dispensers. With two vehicle- fueling stations each, for a total of eight, and will allow for payment at the pump. The proposed expansion and remodeling will be consistent with Sinclair's Rice Street gas station remodeling that was approved by the city council last October. The applicant is requesting that the city approve the following: A conditional use permit to operate a motor fuel station within the business commercial, BC, zoning district. 2. Design review The three existing automobile service bays will be removed and a 290-square-foot addition will be constructed on the east side of the building. Interior of the building will include a convenience store, office, and restrooms. The existing roofline on the exterior of the building will be refaced with a new fascia system to create a flat-roof appearance. Exterior building materials include stucco, brick, and windows. The canopy will be 2,800 square feet in area and 19 feet in height, which is three feet higher than the building. Overhead canopies within a motor fuel station are required to be set back at least 15 feet from the street right-of-way. Sinclair's new canopy will be set back 15 feet from the Larpenteur Avenue right-of-way. Four round steel columns will support the canopy. The columns will be painted white to match the underside of the canopy. The canopy fascia will be nonilluminated, but signage proposed for the canopy will be illuminated. This proposal does not include signage, which will require separate sign permits and must comply with the city's sign ordinance. There are two existing driveways located on Larpenteur Avenue. City code specifies that driveways must be set back at least 30 feet from intersecting rights-of-way. Sinclair's westerly driveway is approximately 18 feet from the intersecting Adolphus Street right-of-way. Chris Cavett, Assistant City Engineer, states in his review of the project on page 23 of the staff report that the west driveway should be eliminated and a new driveway constructed on Adolphus Street. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 3 The driveway should be centered on the pump aisle, which is approximately 26 feet from the intersecting rights-of-way and approximately 50 feet from the intersecting pavement portion of the roads. While the 26-foot setback does not meet city code, the removal and relocation of the westerly driveway will create better traffic operations on the site and a safer traffic environment on the street. Dan Solar, County Traffic Engineer, also concurs with the proposed driveway elimination. Mr. Solar states that the west driveway is located too close to Adolphus Street, which hinders traffic exiting the gas station and traffic exiting Adolphus Street onto Larpenteur Avenue. Mr. Solar also recommends that the remaining driveway on Larpenteur Avenue be straightened. Currently the driveway angles from the site to the east. The driveway on Adolphus Street may have an impact on the city-owned housing replacement lots located across the street. The ultimate scenario would be to line up the Sinclair driveway with a driveway into the redeveloped lots. Because there is no redevelopment plan in place, the city must ensure that any future driveway in the redevelopment lots line up with Sinclair's driveway or that appropriate screening be installed along Adolphus Street. Currently, the Adolphus Street right-of-way is only 30 feet wide at the Larpenteur Avenue intersection. In order to ensure that the city maintains the required 60-foot right-of-way in this area, staff is recommending that a 15-foot-wide strip of land along the west side of Sinclair's site be dedicated as a right-of-way easement. Also, an additional 15 feet of right-of-way should be obtained from the city-owned housing replacement lot across the street at 215 Larpenteur Avenue when the lot is developed. Sinclair Oil Corporation is receptive to giving the city a right-of-way easement and has depicted that easement on their site plan on page 15 of the staff report. City code requires a motor fuel station to have at least four parking stalls, plus one stall per fuel pump. The parking stalls in front of the fuel pumps count toward the overall parking requirement. Sinclair Oil Corporation is proposing eight parking stalls in addition to the eight parking areas in front of each fuel pump. The existing parking lot does not have curb and gutter and is constructed up to the Larpenteur Avenue right-of-way and approximately 12 feet at its closest point to Adolphus Street. City code requires that all parking lots have curb and gutter and be set back 15 feet from street rights-of-way. With the reconstruction of the parking lot, Sinclair is proposing curb and gutter as well as a 10- foot setback to Larpenteur Avenue and a 20-foot setback to Adolphus Street. Increasing the parking lot setback to the required 15 feet on Larpenteur Avenue is not possible because of limited space between the fuel island pumps and the new parking lot curb. The new 10-foot parking lot setback to Larpenteur Avenue will create a more conforming parking lot. For this reason, and because the parking lot will be located 30 feet from the paved portion of Larpenteur Avenue, staff finds the 10-foot pavement setback adequate. Landscaping proposed for the site includes 10 evergreen trees and 52 shrubs. This plan is a vast improvement over the current nonexistent landscaping of the site. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 4 HoWever, in order to accommodate the new curb cut along Adolphus Street, and ensure some screening from the existing and future residential properties to the west, staff recommends a revised landscape plan be submitted. The revised landscape plan should include moving the five scotch pines proposed on the west side of the site to the north side of the new driveway. These pine trees should be at least six- feet in height, as opposed to the proposed four-foot height. Also, with the removal of the west Larpenteur Avenue driveway, the landscaping proposed on the south side of the site should be expanded to the west property line. The lighting on the site is a particular concern due to the fact that there are residential properties to the west. The city's lighting ordinance states that exterior lights must not produce glare to adjacent residential properties, must not exceed 0.4-foot candles at the property lines, canopy lights must be flush-mount type fixtures, and the maximum height of parking lot lights is limited to 25 feet. Lighting proposed for the site includes 16 flush-mount canopy lights and two 16-foot high parking lot lights. The photometric plan submitted shows the canopy light luminary exceeding the required .4-foot-candles at the Larpenteur Avenue property line. A revised photometric plan must be submitted which shows compliance with the city's lighting ordinance. To accommodate the addition, an existing fenced trash enclosure and shed will be removed from the east side of the site. Sinclair proposes to construct a new trash enclosure constructed of six-foot-high chain link fence with white slats. Samples of the fence with slats should be submitted for staff approval in order to ensure that the fence is 100 percent opaque. On June 17, 2002, the planning commission unanimously recommended approval of Sinclair's conditional use permit to operate a motor fuel station within the BC zoning district. Chris Cavett, Assistant City Engineer's comments are outlined in the staff report on page 23. Staff recommends that all grading and drainage concerns as outlined in the report be addressed with the city engineering department prior to issuance of a building permit. Lieutenant John Banick had no public safety concerns. Dave Fisher, Building Official, said Sinclair Oil Corporation must obtain two building permits, one permit for the canopy and one permit for the remodeling of the convenience store. Butch Gervais, Fire Marshal, said Sinclair Oil Corporation must submit a letter with information on underground tanks including the age and installation date. The building appears to be under the allowable area for sprinkler requirements, but further information on building size will be needed. Board member Longrie-Kline asked staff if there was an ordinance regarding the height difference of the canopy and the height of the building? Ms. Finwall said no. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 5 Board member Longrie-Kline asked what the distance was between the easterly drive and the freeway exit ramp? Ms. Finwall said that was discussed with the county engineer and she believes it meets the required 30 feet. Board member Longrie-Kline said she is concerned about the kind of shrubbery that will be used on Larpenteur Avenue and along the freeway exit ramp. The height of the shrubbery may cause a visibility problem for drivers coming from both directions. Ms. Finwall said the applicant has proposed scotch pines that can grow quite high. Staff will take those comments into consideration. Chairperson Shankar asked if the 19-foot canopy at the Sinclair gas station is standard? Ms. Finwall said the 19-foot height is the same as the canopy at the Sinclair gas station on Rice Street that was approved last October. Board member Olson commented that she liked the city engineer's recommendation to move the driveway entrance from Larpenteur Avenue to Adolphus Street. She also agrees with board member Longrie-Kline's comments about the height of the trees by the pylon sign and the visibility for the cars. Board member Longrie-Kline asked if the one handicap-parking stall proposed is van accessible? Ms. Finwall said a handicap stall must have an access aisle. This does meet the requirements. Board member Olson asked if the parking lot meets the ADA standards for number of handicap accessible stalls? Ms. Finwall said there must be one handicap-parking stall for every 25 parking stalls so this does meet the standard. Larry Feldsien, the engineer and applicant for Sinclair Oil Corporation, addressed the board. He said they may have a problem with the photometric plan. The lights they are proposing to use are the flush mounted lights and are identical to the lights being used at the Rice Street location. He believes at the Larpenteur Avenue property line the lights are at .8-foot candles. They may have some difficulty meeting the .4-foot candles. If they have to they may have to cut back the wattage of the lights. He said they would like to continue to use the same light fixture and wattage as they do at the Rice Street location. On the Adolphus Street they can make the .4-foot candles and it may be difficult to make the foot-candles on the Larpenteur Avenue side. Dave Warner the area representative for the Sinclair Station addressed the board. This store is a 24-hour operation currently but when the store is converted to a company store the hours will be 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. as requested by the city. The pay-at-the-pumps will be shut off at that time as well. Board member Longrie-Kline asked staff when the city-owned lots across the street will be developed? Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 Ms. Finwall said there probably would not be any development taking place until next year some time. Board member Longrie-Kline said the reason for the question is because the illumination may cause a problem onto the new development across the street. Chairperson Shankar asked the applicant what the color scheme would be? Mr. Feldsein said the canopy and the fascia would be the standard white with green striping. The building will be off-white. The face brick on the rear elevation will remain the same. He said the window frames would be standard polished aluminum. Because of the expense of the landscaping they will probably put in a sprinkler system. Board member Olson noticed the gas station is going to be open from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. because of the recommendation from the city. Ms. Finwall said the city ordinance states that gas stations within 350 feet from residential must limit their hours of operation from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Budget Towing is currently operating in this location and running 24 hours a day. When Sinclair Oil takes over the station they will be operating from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. Board member Olson said because of this location right off the freeway she would like to see this station continue operating 24-hours a day. This is a courtesy for customers who would be exiting from the freeway. Especially during bad weather and for safety reasons having a station open all night would be helpful for customers. If the landscaping and the lighting would protect the residential area she would be in favor of keeping this a 24-hour operation. Chairperson Shankar asked if the applicant wanted to make this a 24-hour operation? Mr. Warner said they would accept a permit to operate 24 hours. Most of their other stores are open 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. The other option is to allow pay-at-the-pumps 24-hours a day unattended. With the freeway access they may have customers who could use their station in the middle of the night, this would be a great asset for the public. Chairperson Shankar said although the CDRB is not approving hours of operation at this meeting your comments will be shared with the city council. Chairperson Shankar said he had a concern about the brick transition at the corner of the building. He recommends having at least two feet of new brick wrap around the back of the building. He states that peeling paint may occur on the backside of the new building. Board member Olson moved to approve the plans date-stamped May 10, May 16, and May 23, 2002, for the building addition, remodeling, and construction of a new canopy and fuel islands for the Sinclair gas station at 223 Larpenteur Avenue East. Approval is subject to the following conditions: Repeat this review in two years if the city has not issued a building permit for this project. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 bo Submit the following for staff approval before the city issues a building permit: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) A revised site plan showing: (a) Removal of the westerly driveway on Larpenteur Avenue and the replacement of all required curb and gutter along Larpenteur Avenue and the parking area. (b) At least a 24-foot-wide driveway entrance on Adolphus Street. The driveway must be centered on the fuel pump islands. (c) The easterly driveway on Larpenteur Avenue widened to 36 feet. Three lanes should be marked with paint and arrows to include an entrance lane, a left-turn exit lane, and a right-turn exit lane. Revised grading, drainage, utility and erosion control plans. A revised landscape plan showing the following: (a) Moving the five scotch pines proposed on the west side of the site to the north side of the new driveway. These pine trees should be at least six- feet in height, as opposed to the proposed four-foot height. (b) Expanding the landscaping proposed on the south side of the site to the west property line, due to the removal of the westerly Larpenteur Avenue driveway. (c) Installing in-ground sprinkler system for all landscaped areas. If the installation of a sprinkler system is not feasible because of existing pavement, the applicant must submit written agreement to hand water all landscaping. (d) Edging and mulching all planting beds. Revised canopy elevations showing that the lights beneath the canopy are flush mount. The lenses of the lights must not drop below the opaque portions of each lighting fixture. A revised photometric plan showing that the site lighting complies with the city's lighting ordinance. Trash enclosure fence sample must be submitted to staff to ensure the fence is 100 percent opaque. A right-of-way easement covering the westerly 15 feet of the site. The easement must be recorded with Ramsey County prior to issuance of a building permit. Revised elevation plan extending the brick two feet around the sides on the back of the building prior to issuance of a building permit. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 Co Complete the following before occupying the building: (1) Restore and sod damaged boulevards. (2) Install all pavement, curb, and gutter. (3) (4) Install stop signs at both exits and a handicap-parking sign for the handicap- parking stalls. Widen the easterly Larpenteur Avenue driveway to 36 feet. Three lanes should be marked with paint and arrows to include an entrance lane, a left-turn exit lane, and a right-turn exit lane. (5) Install the approved trash enclosure. (6) Install all required landscaping. 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 city receives cash escrow or an irrevocable letter of credit for the required work. The amount shall be 150 percent of the cost of the unfinished work. Any unfinished landscaping shall be completed by June 1 if the building is occupied in the fall or winter or within six weeks if the building is occupied in the spring or summer. (3) The city receives an agreement that will allow the city to complete any unfinished work. This approval does not include the signs. All proposed signs require a separate sign permit and must comply with the city's sign ordinance. All work shall follow the approved plans. The director of community development may approve minor changes. Board member Longrie-Kline seconded. The motion passed. This goes to the citY council on July 8, 2002. Ayes-Longrie-Kline, Olson, Shankar Board member Olson asked if Sinclair is going to put in a dinosaur on the site. Mr. Feldsein said they will take that into consideration and if they get enough people requesting a dinosaur they may put one in. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 b. Hmong Alliance Church - 1770 McMenemy Street Ms. Finwall said the St. Paul Hmong Alliance Church, at 1770 McMenemy Street, is proposing to build an addition onto the south side of their existing parking lot. They also are proposing to add a playground to the east side of the church building and a new driveway from the expanded parking lot to DeSoto Street. The applicant is requesting: A conditional use permit (CUP) revision. Specifically, they want city approval to change the approved site plan to expand their parking lot, to add the new driveway to DeSoto Street and to add a playground. The city code requires a CUP for churches. 2. Approval of project plans. 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 their building by adding space for Sunday school and a solarium to the front of the church. On June 17, 2002, the planning commission recommended the CUP but denied the driveway access onto DeSoto Street. The church is meeting the conditions of their CUP and staff is not aware of problems, other than the traffic from the site, with the church. The proposed parking lot expansion meets the requirements for the CUP and would fit the site. If approved, the parking lot would grow from 95 spaces to 254 spaces (an increase of 159 spaces). This expansion should meet the parking needs of the church for the next several years. Proper landscaping and screening will ensure that nearby homes are buffered from the parking lot. The proposed playground should be a good fit and should not cause any problems. In addition, the city has approved several CUPs for church expansions in the past few years. Ms. Finwall said the proposed plans show a new driveway from the expanded parking lot to DeSoto Street. The neighbors near the church have mixed reactions to this part of the proposal. Those living on or near McMenemy Street thought the new driveway would be a good idea and those living on or near DeSoto Street thought that the new driveway was a poor or dangerous idea. One neighbor said the city should deny this project because there already is too much traffic from the church. City staff has not received any traffic complaints about the existing church and parking lot layout. We understand, however, that the new driveway to DeSoto Street is a change to the site and the area that is a concern to many of the neighbors. It is their opinion that DeSoto Street, because of its condition and design, could not handle the additional traffic. The neighbors also are concerned that the additional traffic from the church would make DeSoto Street unsafe for pedestrians and for the homeowners on the street. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 ]0 Because of the neighbors' concerns, the church agreed to have a traffic study done. They hired Benshoof and Associates, Inc. to study the existing traffic patterns and to prepare an analysis of what will happen if the church adds the driveway to DeSoto Street. This study shows that about 60 additional vehicles would use DeSoto Street between the driveway and Larpenteur Avenue during the church peak hours on Sunday mornings. The study also notes that "the impacts of the volume increase on this segment of DeSoto Street will not be significant, because there are fewer than 10 homes along DeSoto Street south of the proposed driveway location. Also, this volume condition would occur only for a few hours one day per week. The traffic study has three conditions. Specifically, the traffic consultants recommend that the church construct the driveway for three reasons: It will not create adverse impacts on DeSoto Street. It will improve convenience for church users. It will reduce the Sunday traffic volume on McMenemy Street. The proposed landscaping plan shows the applicant planting trees and shrubs around the proposed ponding area and in the islands in the parking lot. The proposed plan, however, does not show additional landscaping along the south side of the new parking lot. Section 36- 27(a)(1) of the code says, "a landscaped and possible screened area of not less than twenty (20) feet in width shall be provided where a nonresidential use abuts a residentially zoned or planned property". "The code also says that the CDRB shall require shrubs or trees in this area (the 20 feet) unless they deem it not appropriate. In addition, Section 36-27(b)(4) of the code says, screening shall be provided where a parking lot is constructed next to a property that is used for single or double-dwelling use. The CDRB may waive this requirement if they determine that screening would not be needed or would not protect surrounding property values." Ms. Finwall said in this case, there is not a need for screening and landscaping along the entire south property line of the church property. Much of this area abuts the backyards of the houses at 1750 McMenemy Street and 1771 DeSoto Street. There is a need, however, to screen the south side of the parking lot and the new driveway to DeSoto Street when they are next to the adjacent houses. The code requires that such screening be at least six feet tall and be 80 percent opaque. The church may provide such screening with a fence, berming or trees. The applicant should provide a revised landscape plan that shows significant screening and landscaping along the south side of the parking lot and the new driveway to DeSoto Street in the areas next to the adjacent houses. This plan must meet the code requirements and should be subject to staff approval. The applicant provided the city engineer a grading plan. Staff does not have any major concerns with the proposed grading because of the substantial building setbacks and because there is a need for the additional parking. The applicant must provide, however, additional information before starting the grading. This includes an easement for the grading on the property to the south and a detailed grading and drainage plan that meets the conditions of the city engineer and the watershed district before the city will issue a building permit. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 ]] Ms. Finwall said 31 properties within 350 feet of the church property were surveyed. There were 15 replies. Three were in favor, nine were opposed, and three had comments. Board member OIson said she is in favor of extending the driveway onto DeSoto Street. Board member Longrie-Kline said the reason she is not in favor of the driveway being put in is because the width of the street is only 22 feet. The traffic study was based on studies for streets 28 feet wide. There are spots on DeSoto Street that are only 20 feet wide. She said it is premature to put in a driveway onto DeSoto Street before the widening takes place. It is very dangerous having two cars going down the street and trying to pass. Barry Morgan, the civil engineer with Master Engineering in Minneapolis, addressed the board. They feel they can relocate some of the landscaping around the pond onto the property. The church still proposes to move forward with the driveway to DeSoto Street. The church only anticipates using this on Sunday's for church services. The church would be willing to put this in as a condition The traffic study indicates that 70 to 80 cars would be using that driveway onto DeSoto Street on Sundays. In their opinion, this will have a minimal effect on the neighborhood. Church services are from 9:00-10:30 a.m. and 12:00-1:30 p.m. and there are people coming and going for bible study as well. Chairperson Shankar asked Mr. Morgan if the entire pavement is going to be 1.5 inches MnDot? Mr. Morgan said the pavement design is pretty standard for light traffic situations. Chairperson Shankar asked if there is any traffic signage proposed on the parking lot? Mr. Morgan said they are probably proposing to do some painting on the parking lot to direct traffic flow and install a stop sign at the DeSoto Street driveway. Chairperson Shankar asked where the trash enclosure is now? Mr. Morgan said it is in the northeast portion of the parking lot. It does need to be updated as a past conditional use. Mr. Kao Lee, the applicant and parking lot plan committee chair for the Hmong Alliance Church at 1770 McMenemy Street, addressed the board. He said they propose to build a trash enclosure consisting of a three-sided concrete enclosure with a wooden gate with lock. Board member Olson asked the applicant if they have specific plans on the playground and the materials they would be using? Mr. Lee said they have not decided on a builder or the materials the playground would be made of yet. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 Board member Longrie-Kline asked Mr. Lee if the public would be using this playground? Mr. Lee said it is on the church property but it would be difficult to monitor who uses the playground equipment. In his opinion the church is a public place. Chairperson Shankar asked the applicant about the lighting plan. Mr. Morgan said regarding the lighting plan, the existing light poles will be removed. They will be replaced with four poles with double heads on the inside of the parking lot. They will be 25- feet in height and cast down with a shoebox structure. They will have a three-foot concrete base to protect from car traffic and snow plows. Board member Longrie-Kline asked the applicant if he knows how fast the congregation is growing and how long this parking lot will suit the church's needs? Mr. Lee said their goal is to see their congregation grow another 1,000 members in the next 10 years. Currently the church is growing about 10% a year. Board member Longrie-Kline asked the applicant if he knew the capacity of the church. Mr. Lee said they currently can seat 400 to 500 and would like to seat up to 1,000 members in the future. Board member Longrie-Kline asked the applicant if they planned on using any fencing trees or berming for screening purposes? Mr. Morgan said they plan on using trees and berming. This would provide vegetation verses the maintenance of a fence. Chairperson Shankar opened the discussion to the public. Mr. Dick DuFrene of 1721 DeSoto Street, addressed the board. He said he lives on the stretch of DeSoto Street that is the narrowest. He is opposed to the driveway being put in for this proposal. This is basically because of the street width. People will exit the parking lot whichever is the quickest, because people are creatures of habit. He said one of the neighbors observed the parking lot on Sunday morning. There were no cars parked on McMenemy Street at all. It took 11 minutes to empty the parking lot. In a period of 40 minutes there was about 30 cars that entered the area and 10 of those cars entered the church site. He said maybe the idea of a driveway onto DeSoto Street should be revisited after the street is widened. Nobody is objecting to anything else but the driveway extension to DeSoto Street at this time. Board member OIson asked Mr. DuFrene if he is opposed to having sidewalks installed when DeSoto is widened and if he has seen people speed on this street? Mr. DuFrene said he has no problem with having sidewalks installed. People do speed on the street except when the road comes to a curve they have to slow way down. He has heard other neighbors speak about that but he doesn't really see too much of it where his house sits. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 If the city widened the street, put a retaining wall up and installed a sidewalk as a total package, he thinks it will be fine. Board member Longrie-Kline asked staff if they have gotten any reports of any traffic complaints on DeSoto Street as opposed to traffic complaints on McMenemy Street? Ms. Finwall said she is not aware of the police reports. Mr. Jon Carlson of 1856 DeSoto Street addressed the board. He has reported many traffic complaints for DeSoto Street just about every week. The traffic complaints were mostly from drag racers going up and down the street. He brought up at the last meeting that he thought the church could open up two driveways onto McMenemy Street to alleviate more of the congestion to empty the parking lot easier. He also thought a police man directing traffic in and out of the parking lot would help. Sunday's are also peak times for families and neighbors to be outside as well. People are in school and at work during the week and on the weekends people tend to be outside more. He is in favor of sidewalks. He grew up in St. Paul and he enjoyed having sidewalks in his neighborhood. He sees a lot of traffic off of Roselawn Avenue. Especially since the 70-unit complex was put in. Mr. Lonnie Piche of 1784 DeSoto Street addressed the board. He spoke about the varying width of DeSoto Street. Parts of DeSoto Street are 20 feet and some are 24 feet. The engineers will have their hands full when they try to redesign or even straighten this road on DeSoto Street. Some of the people only have a 20 foot front yard as it is and once you widen the road and possibly put sidewalks in that is going to take a lot of their front yards up. People are creatures of habit and they will enter and exit the fastest driveway possible. Board member Olson asked staff if the city engineer supports the driveway access onto DeSoto Street. Ms. Finwall said yes the city engineer supports the access onto DeSoto Street. Board member Longrie-Kline asked if the city engineer supported the driveway before DeSoto Street is widened or after it is widened? Ms. Finwall said the city engineer supports the driveway onto DeSoto before and after it is widened. Board member Olson said she likes the layout of the parking lot and the ponding area. She is concerned about the fact that the applicant is running out of money to do the landscaping. Board member Longrie-Kline said she likes the parking lot layout as well and she believes the proper landscaping should be provided. Chairperson Shankar asked staff if it would be appropriate for the board to make two different motions for this proposal. One motion for the parking lot addition and playground and the other motion for the driveway onto DeSoto Street. Ms. Finwall said that would be appropriate. Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 14 Board member Olson moved to approve the plans date-stamped April 30, 2002, for the parking lot expansion and playground additions on the St. Paul Hmong Alliance Church, 1770 McMenemy Street. The property owner shall meet the following conditions: (changes are in bold.) 1. Repeat this review in two years if the city has not issued a permit for this expansion. 2. Before starting the construction of the parking lot and provide for staff approval the following plans: A revised landscape plan that shows significant screening and landscaping along the south side of the parking lot and the new driveway to DeSoto Street in the areas next to the adjacent houses. Such screening shall be at least six feet tall and be 80 percent opaque and may be accomplished with a fence, berming or trees. 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. If the grading plan shows the eliminati6n of any mature trees (eight inches in caliper or more), the applicant shall replace these trees in accordance with the woodland protection ordinance. A revised lighting plan be submitted verifying the height and style of the parking lot lights. 3. Resod the lawn that is disturbed by construction activities. 4. If any required work is not done, the city may allow temporary occupancy if: The city determines that the work is not essential to the public health, safety or welfare. The city receives a cash escrow or an irrevocable letter of credit for the required work. The amount shall be 150% of the cost of the unfinished work. c. All work shall follow the approved plans. The director of community development may approve minor changes. The applicant shall provide plans for the playground equipment and design. e. The applicant shall restripe the parking lot on the westerly side. Board member Longrie-Kline seconded. Ayes-Longrie-Kline, Olson, Shankar The motion passed. ' Community Design Review Board Minutes 06-25-2002 VII. VIII, IX. Xm Board member Olson moved to approve the driveway access onto DeSoto Street for the Hmong Alliance Church at 1770 McMenemy Street. Board member Shankar seconded. Ayes - Olson, Shankar Nays - Longrie-Kline Ms. Finwall said the city council re-reviewed the Kline Nissan proposal. They approved the parking lot setback of 50 feet on the Northeast side of the property and 25 feet on the south side of the property. The Minnesota Department of Transportation maintains an access. Because of this Kline Nissan cannot put an access onto Highway 61 and may possibly put two entrances onto County Road D. STAFF PRESENTATIONS a. Annual Tour Update MS. Finwall said the CDRB is invited to join the Planning Commission in their annual city tour. The tour will be held Monday, July 29, 2002, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The CDRB sends their thanks to the planning commission for the invitation to join them. b. Board member Longrie-Kline will be the Community Design Review Board representative at the July 8, 2002, city council meeting. c. Upcoming Items: 1) Access Power Office Warehouse Facility - Gervais Court 2) Beaver Lake Town homes - South of Maryland Avenue, between Sterling Street and Lakewood Drive. Board member Olson said when she watched the cable rebroadcast about the Beaver Lake proposal, a Maplewood citizen stood up and said the city had failed to listen to the people who spoke against the proposal. She was very unhappy with that because she felt that the city went over board to accommodate the neighbors with all of the meetings and research that went into this proposed development for over a year. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 7:52 p.m. The motion passed. This item goes to the city council on July 8, 2002. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS No visitors present. BOARD PRESENTATIONS MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: APPLICANT: LOCATION: DATE: City Manager Shann Finwall, Associate Planner Access Power- Design Review Joseph Gilbert 1832 Gervais Court, East of Saints' North and West of Qwest July 3, 2002 INTRODUCTION Joseph Gilbert is proposing to develop a 2,960-square-foot office/warehouse building for Access Power. The applicant will construct the building on a .93-acre vacant lot at 1832 Gervais Court. Access Power is in the business of supplying uninterruptible power systems for large mainframe computers in case of a power outage. DISCUSSION Building Design The proposed painted concrete block building will be compatible with the existing buildings located to the east and west, which are both constructed of concrete block. The plans show rock- face concrete block around the entry door and as a wainscot, and they show smooth concrete block with painted accent bands above the wainscot. The plan shows six windows on the sides and front of the building (toward Gervais Court). The building elevations specify an accent band above all of the windows except one on the west elevation. Staff recommends that this window also have an accent band. The building elevations show a green canvas awning above the entry door that the applicant will install in the future. Because of the lack of detail in the building, staff recommends that matching awnings also be installed above the two windows in the front of the building. The contractor should install these three awnings before the city issues the certificate of occupancy, rather than in the future as is specified on the plans. Staff is concerned about the lack of detail on the south side of the building (toward Highway 36). The proposal calls for a 40-foot-wide by 14-foot-tall blank wall with no landscaping in front of the wall. The contractor, John Patterson, states that the building will not be visible from Highway 36 because of the distance from the freeway, which will be 190 to 283 feet, and the existing mature trees and vegetation which will remain. Because of the distance and lack of visibility from Highway 36, staff does not recommend changes to the south elevation. However, staff recommends that all native vegetation remain on the south side of the site, as outlined in the landscaping section below. Parking Lot The parking lot will include concrete curb and gutter and an access aisle on the west side of the building for deliveries. A modular block retaining wall will be constructed on the east and west side of the parking lot. The retaining wall appears to be one to two feet in height. The applicant should submit detailed plans showing the style and height of the retaining walls for staff approval before the city issues a building permit. The city's parking ordinance requires one parking stall per 200 square feet of office space and one parking stall per 1,000 square feet of warehouse space. Access Power will have 1,190 square feet of office space and 1,770 square feet of warehouse space; as such, the code requires seven parking spaces. The proposal meets this requirement as the plans show seven parking stalls in front of the building (including a van accessible handicap parking stall). Tree Preservation/Landscaping The city's tree preservation ordinance requires that all large trees be replaced one-for-one, not to exceed ten trees per acre. A large tree is defined as any tree with a diameter of 8 inches at a 4-foot trunk height, excluding box elder, cottonwood, and poplar. The applicant must submit a detailed tree plan for city staff approval before issuance of a building or grading permit. The tree plan should show all large trees on the site and all large trees that the contractor will remove from the site. In addition, because of the concerns regarding the sparse south building elevation and visibility from Highway 36, all large trees and native plants and shrubs should be preserved on the south side of the site unless an alternative landscape plan is approved by staff. The landscape plan shows the planting of 15 trees and 15 shrubs on the sides and front of the building (toward Gervais Court). The applicant should revise this plan to include a detail for the rainwater garden that incorporates plants able to withstand wet conditions planted in and on the slopes. In addition, the landscape plan should be revised to reflect that the ash and honey locust trees will be at least 2.5 caliper inches in diameter, as opposed to the proposed 2 caliper inches, and that an in-ground lawn irrigation system is installed for all landscaping, excluding the rainwater garden. Mechanical Equipment The applicant is proposing a small parapet wall on top of the building to screen rooftop mechanical equipment. The applicant must paint any rooftop mechanical equipment that the parapet wall does not screen. The applicant is proposing an electrical transformer on the south side of the building. The landscape plan shows seven bushes screening the transformer from the parking lot and Gervais Court. Since the height and overall size of the transformer is unknown, staff recommends that the applicant submit elevations of the transformer to ensure that the landscaping will screen the transformer. Lighting Mr. Patterson indicates that six wall-pack lights will be located on the building. The applicant must submit a lighting plan to the city before issuance of a building permit. The lighting plan must show the style of the wall-pack lights and the illumination of the lights not to exceed .4-foot candles at all property lines. Access Power 2 July 3, 2002 Other Comments Chris Cavett, Assistant City Engineer: See Mr. Cavett's memorandum attached on page 14. The review board should require that the applicant submit revised grading and drainage plans for review and approval by the assistant city engineer. Lieutenant John Banick: No public safety concerns. Dave Fisher, Building Official: Only one unisex bathroom is required. Butch Gervais, Fire Marshal: Installation of a fire alarm system for early detection is recommended since no fire protection system, i.e., sprinkler system, is being installed. RECOMMENDATION Approve the plans date-stamped May 29, 2002, for the proposed Access Power building at 1832 Gervais Court. Approval is subject to the applicant doing the following: Repeat this review in two years if the city has not issued a building permit for this project. The applicant must submit to city staff for approval before issuance of a building permit the following: ao Revised grading, drainage, utility, and erosion control plans which address the assistant city engineer's concerns as outlined in his June 14, 2002, memorandum. b. Revised building and mechanical equipment elevations to include: 1) A painted smooth concrete block band above the most northerly window located on the west elevation to match the five other windows. 2) Green canvas awnings above the entry door and the two windows located on the north elevation. 3) Electrical transformer elevation to include height and overall size of the transformer. c. A tree plan and revised landscaping plan to include: 1) 2) The location of all large trees on the site. The preservation of all large trees and native plants and shrubs located beyond the southern grading limits and up to the Highway 36 right-of-way. The city will only allow the removal of this landscaping if the city staff approves an alternative landscape plan. 3) A detailed rainwater garden plan to include plants able to withstand wet conditions planted in and on the slopes. Access Power 3 July 3, 2002 4) An increase in the sizes of the seven ash and two honey locust trees from 2 caliper inches in diameter to 2.5 caliper inches in diameter. These trees shall be balled and burlapped. 5) In-ground lawn irrigation system installed for all new landscaping, excluding the rainwater garden. d. Retaining wall plans showing the style and height of the retaining walls. A trash enclosure plan showing location and materials used. The trash enclosure must be compatible with the building and must have a 100 percent opaque closeable gate. If the trash dumpster is kept inside the building, an outdoor enclosure is not required. A revised lighting plan showing the style of exterior lights and the illumination from the lights not to exceed .4-foot-candles at the property line. 3. The applicant shall complete the following before occupying the building: a. Replace any property irons removed because of this construction. Install a reflectorized stop sign at the exit and a handiCap-parking sign for the handicap accessible parking stall. Construct a trash enclosure to meet code requirements, unless trash dumpsters are stored indoors. d. Provide continuous concrete curb and gutter around the parking lot and driveways. Install an in-ground lawn irrigation system for all new landscaped areas, excluding landscaping within the rainwater garden. Paint all rooftop mechanical equipment to match the building that the parapet wall does not screen. 4. If any required work is not done, the city may allow temporary occupancy if: The city determines that the work is not essential to the public health, safety or welfare. The city receives a cash escrow or an irrevocable letter of credit for the required work. The amount shall be 150 percent of the cost of the unfinished work. The applicant shall finish the landscaping by June 1 if the applicant occupies the building in the fall or winter or within six weeks if the applicant occupies the building in the spring or summer. This approval does not include signage. All proposed signs must comply with' the city's sign ordinance and the applicant must obtain all required sign permits before installation. o All work shall follow the approved plans. The director of community development may approve minor changes. Access Power 4 July 3, 2002 REFERENCE INFORMATION SITE DESCRIPTION Site Size: Existing Land Use: .93 acres (40,510 s.f.) Vacant SURROUNDING LAND USES North: South: East: West: Redeeming Love Church and Gervais Senior Living Apts. (zoned LBC and PUD) Highway 36 Qwest Facility and Monopole (zoned LBC) Saints, North Roller Rink (zoned M-l) PLANNING Existing Land Use Plan: Existing Zoning: Limited Business Commercial, LBC Limited Business Commercial, LBC CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL Design Review Section 25-70 of the city code requires that the community design review board make the following findings to approve plans: 1. That the design and location of the proposed development and its relationship to neighboring, existing or proposed developments, and traffic is such that it will not impair the desirability of investment or occupation in the neighborhood; that it will not unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of neighboring, existing or proposed developments; and that it will not create traffic hazards or congestion. 2. That the design and location of the proposed development is in keeping with the character of the surrounding neighborhood and is not detrimental to the harmonious, orderly and attractive development contemplated by this article and the city's comprehensive municipal plan. 3. That the design and location of the proposed development would provide a desirable environment for its occupants, as well as for its neighbors, and that it is aesthetically of good composition, materials, textures and colors. Application Date We received the complete application and plans for this development on June 6, 2002. State law requires that the city take action within 60 days of receiving a complete application for a proposal. As such, city action is required on this proposal by August 5, 2002. P\Secl l~Access Power Attachments: 1. Location Map 2. Zoning Map 3. Land Use Map 4. Site Plan 5. Grading Plan 6. Landscape Plan 7. Elevations 8. Floor Plan 9. Assistant City Engineer Comments Dated June 14, 2002 10. Separate Plans Date Stamped May 29, 2002 Access Power 5 July 3, 2002 Little Canada Location of Access Power St. Paul N L.ocation Map 6 Attachment 2 Gervais Avenue Highway 36 IAccess Power 1832 Gervais Ct ZONING ~ Light Manufacturing Heavy Manufacturing Neighborhood Commercial Commercial Office Limited Business Commercial Business Commercial Modified Business Commercial Shopping Center Small Lot Single Dwelling Residential Single Dwelling Residential Double Dwelling Residential High Multiple Dwelling Residential High Multiple Dwelling Residential Condo Planned Urban Development 30000 Residential Estate 40000 Residential Estate Farm -Z°ning Map Attachment 3 Gervais Avenue Gervais Access Power 1832 Gervais Ct N LAND USE ~i Light Manufacturing ~ Heavy Manufacturing ~ Neighborhood Commercial ~ Commercial Office ~ Limited Business Commercial ~ Business Commercial Modified ~ Business Commercial Small Lot Single Dwelling Residential ~ ...... Single Dwelling Residential L ~ ~ Double Dwelling Residential i_~--'~ Low Multiple Dwelling Residential ~ Medium Multiple Dwelling Residential ~ High Multiple Dwelling Residential ~ 30000 Residential Estate ~ 40000 Residential Estate ~ Park Open Space School city Government Library Cemetery Church Fire Station Land Use Map · Attachment 4 GERVAIS COURT Site Plan S Grading Plan 10 · Attachment 6 Landscape Plan 11 Attachment 7 /'-~ ~iDE ELEVATION FRONT ELEVATION "~ REAR ELEVATION Elevations 12 Attachment 8 _Floor Plan 13 Attachment 9 Engineering Plan Review PROJECT: Access Power, Office Warehouse PROJECT NO: CHECKED BY: Erin Schacht and Chris Cavett Maplewood Engineering Department, June 14, 2002 The EFH Company is proposing to construct a 2,960 square foot office/warehouse called Access Power. The office/warehouse is located on a 0.93-acre vacant lot that is east of Saint's North and west of Qwest on Gervais Court. A rain garden is proposed to treat runoff from the parking lot that will drain into the city's 48" storm sewer. A 6" water service and a 4" sanitary service will be connected to the existing utilities. The applicant shall address the following staff comments and revise plans before grading and utility permits will be issued. The grading plan refers to the depression in the Gervais Avenue right-of-way as a "Rain Garden." However, there appears to have been no coordination between the engineering plan and the landscape plan, which addresses NO landscaping in the garden area and refers to the area as a "Holding Pond." Landscaping is a fundamental step in the creation of rainwater gardens. Submit: a detailed landscape plan for the rainwater garden. Include landscaping in and on slopes of rain garden with plants able to withstand wet conditions. The preparation of the rainwater garden bed is another important process. A detail of the garden is included in the plans. Some notation should be added to the plan to indicate who is responsible for the garden preparation, i.e., grading contractor or landscaper? According to the proposed parking lot grades, it appears that the drainage from the far western part of the site will drain towards the north side of the parking lot, then across the entire parking lot from west to east. The city's concern is that the grading is actually done as designed, as it is too likely that it will be constructed to drain out onto Gervais Avenue. We strongly recommend: that a trench drain or similar application be installed at the parking lot entrance to ensure that flow from the west side of the parking lot is directed into the rainwater garden. We strongly recommend: that swales from the parking lot and trench drain be tufted swales, lined with permanent erosion control blanket (Enkamt, Miramat, NAG C350, or equal). The swales will act as a pre-filter of sediment before it enters the rainwater garden. Cover the permanent soil stabilization blanket with a thin layer of topsoil and seed and cover with a wood fiber blanket to protect the seed. 14 MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: LOCATION: DATE: City Manager Ken Roberts, Associate Planner Beaver Lake Townhomes Design Approval Maryland Avenue and Sterling Street July 3, 2002 Project Description Mr. Tony Emmedch, representing the AJE Companies, is proposing to develop a 148-unit planned unit development (PUD) called Beaver Lake Townhomes. It would be on a 27-acre site on the south side of Maryland Avenue, between Steding Street and Lakewood Ddve. (Please see the maps starting on page 15.) Reque~ To build this project, Mr. Emmerich is requesting that the city approve the design plans for the proposal including the architectural, landscaping and lighting plans. Please also refer to the developer's project plans (11 X 17 and full size) for more information about these proposals. BACKGROUND On May 28, 2002, the city council made several approvals for the Beaver Lake Townhouses. These included: A conditional use permit (CUP) for a planned unit development (PUD) for a 148-unit housing development. The applicant requested the CUP because Section 36-566(a) of the city code (shoreland distdct regulations) requires a PUD for developments with buildings having more than four units when the site is in the shoreland district of a lake. In this case, the site is in the shoreland distdct of Beaver Lake and will have a mix of housing with 40 single-family detached · townhomes and 108 rental units in 11 8-unit and 5 4-unit buildings. In addition, having a PUD gives the city and developer a chance to be more flexible with site design and development details (such as setbacks and street right-of-way and pavement widths) than the standard city requirements would normally allow. (See the approved site plan on page 18.) 2. Street right-of-way and easement vacations. These would be for the unused street right-of-ways and easements on the site. 3. A preliminary plat to create the lots in the development. 4. Authorization for city staff to spend city open space funds and to use a $150,000 DNR grant to buy about 8.9 acres of the project site for park and open space purposes. DISCUSSION Park lssues With the approved plans, the developer has agreed that the city should own the property along the stream and pipelines for public benefit. To have fewer housing units on the site while increasing the width of the publicly-owned corridor, staff has negotiated with the developer to have the city pay him up to $400,000 from city open space funds and the DNR Greenways money. The city would then own about 8.9 acres of property through the center of the site so it would be available for all to use and enjoy. I had Bruce Anderson, the Maplewood Parks and Recreation Director, review the development plans. Mr. Anderson supports the development plan and states that it should be "a positive project for the city, abutting property owners and for long-term park purposes." Trails and Sidewalks Mr. Anderson also noted that the developer is not proposing to build any trails with the development. He notes that the city will be receiving park dedication funds that the city will use for the construction of the trail through the site. The city has been planning for a north/south trail corridor to go through this site. This trail is to eventually connect the Maplewood Nature Center with the Priory open space to the north. The developer, however, has not shown any trails within the site. Mr. Anderson recommends that the city install a trail along the creek corridor in the property that the city would own. However, Mr. Anderson wants to ensure that the developer provide an internal trail system that would connect the west and east sides of the proposed development (including a bridge over Beaver Creek). The developer's original plans did not show any walking paths or sidewalks within the development. However, the Maplewood Parks, Open Space and Trail System Plan that the city adopted in 1999 identified the natural corridor along the stream on this site as the location of a park trail. This trail would connect Stillwater Road on the south with the open space(s) north of Maryland Avenue. The Implementation Plan of the 1999 Parks Plan identified this trail segment as the highest priority trail to build of those the city identified for the trail system. That is, the city should make the building of this trail its top priority when discussing the building of trails or when reviewing development proposals for this site. The development plan approved by the city council in May and now the proposed plans show trails through the site. To be consistent with the adopted Parks Plan, the city should build this trail. Section 9-196(e)(2) of the city code, however, states that a trail within a wetland or stream buffer "must not be of impervious surface." As such, any trail within the buffers on this site must be constructed of wood chips or another material that is not impervious. Any trail construction on the site will need to be coordinated with the project's utility construction. In addition, the city will be installing 8-foot-wide connecting trails from the trail in the center of the site to the east and to the west to connect the respective sides of the development with each other. These connections include 8-foot-wide trails on top of or near the proposed storm sewer pipes between buildings 8 and 9 and between buildings 21 and 22. The city also may want to install a trail bridge or crossing over the stream that would allow people to cross from one side to the other. These links will give the new residents in the development access to the trail corddor and to each other. All the trails within the development will be public and for all to use, not just for those living in the development. In addition to the above-noted trails, the plans show a six-foot-wide concrete sidewalk along the south side of Maryland Avenue between Sterling Street and the west property line of the site. The city engineer told me that the city should consider building the rest of the sidewalk from the west line of the site to Lakewood Ddve to complete the sidewalk along this part of Maryland Avenue. This sidewalk would give the residents of Rosewood Estates and the new residents on Maryland Avenue a place to walk off the street while going to and from the trails north of Maryland Avenue and to the new trail along the stream. For paved off-street paths, Maplewood requires 8-foot-wide bituminous paths (when not in a buffer area) be in a publicly-owned right-of-way or pedestrian way that is at least 10 feet wider than the trail. As such, the developer will need to dedicate the outlots between Lots 8 and 9 and between Lots 21 and 22 to the city to meet this code requirement. The developer should build a split-rail fence on both sides of the paved trails within this plat. The city should require the developer to install the sidewalks and fences with the streets and driveways before final plat approval. This is to ensure that the lot buyers know that the trail is there. Shoreland District Regulations Most of this site is in the shoreland district of Beaver Lake. Maplewood adopted the shoreland district regulations, under the guidance of the DNR~. in '1996. The code says that the shoreland district "is to provide specific regulations to protect the city's shorelands. It is in the public's best interest to provide for the wise subdivision, use and development of shorelands." The objectives of the shoreland code are: Protect, preserve and enhance the quality of surface waters. Protect the natural environment and visual appeal of shorelands. Protect the general health, safety and welfare of city residents. As such, there are several shoreland ordinance regulations that apply to this request (including the requirement that the city approve a CUP for a PUD). These include open space requirements, the maximum building height, vegetation preservation and screening requirements. Specifically, the shoreland code requires the following: at least fifty (50) percent of project area remain as open space; that the buildings have a maximum height of 25 feet (unless the city approves taller structures); that the developer minimizes the loss or removal of natural vegetation; - that the applicant prepare a storm water management plan for the proposal; and - that the developer design the structures to reduce their visibility from the lake. Specifically, Section 36-574(e)(4) of the code says "This design shall use vegetation, topography, increased setbacks, color or other means. The city may require additional vegetation to help screen these facilities." The proposed project plans say that the develo, pment will have 68 percent open space. In addition, the apartment buildings will be about 25 feet tall, as measured to the mid- point of the roof (as building height is defined in the code). 3 Site Plan Details North Side (along Maryland Avenue) The proposed development plans now show a driveway parallel to Maryland Avenue to provide access to the homes on the south side of the street. Mr. Soler of Ramsey County suggested this design. Front and Rear-Yard Setbacks The developer has shown a variety of building locations on the approved site plan and is proposing all private driveways within the development. Maplewood's setback standards usually do not apply to buildings when next to a private driveway (versus a public street). Having a variety of setbacks in this development will allow for less mass grading and more individual town house styles. The city council approved this site plan (on page 18) as part of the PUD approval on May 28, 2002. Off-Street Parking Standards The city code requires the developer to provide at least 296 off-street parking spaces (two for each unit) in this development. The developer's engineer noted on the project plans that they would be providing at least 337 parking spaces (including garages) within the site. Of the 296 parking spaces, 132 would be on driveways in front of garages. The total number of proposed spaces should be enough parking for the residents and their guests. I also should note that, as proposed, Private Driveways A and D (on the plan on page 18) will be 28 feet wide. This width would allow for parking on one side of each driveway. Drainage and Watershed District Most of the site drains to the existing stream in the center of the property. This stream runs to the south to an existing city ponding area on the east side of Lakewood Drive and then into Beaver Lake. The developer's engineer told me that by using the proposed ponds as storm water detention facilities, the development will not increase the rate of storm water runoff from the site. He said that the runoff leaving the site would be at or below current levels. It also is important to remember that the applicant or the contractor must get a permit from the watershed district before starting grading or construction. That is, the watershed district will have to be satisfied that the developer's plans will meet all watershed district standards, including the types of plantings used for restoration and providing adequate protection to the stream, wetlands and their buffer areas. Public Utilities There are sanitary sewer and water in Lakewood Drive, Maryland Avenue and in Sterling Street to serve the proposed development. The developer will need to extend the water main between the west and east sides of the proposed development to connect and loop the water system. The Saint Paul Water Utility will need to approve the water plan. I had Chris Cavett and Chuck Ahl of the city engineering staff and Ed Nadeau, the city sewer foreman, review the proposed plans. They noted that the existing sanitary sewer line that runs through the site near the stream is difficult to maintain and may need repairs. They believe there 4 is an opportunity to work with the developer to design new sewer lines that will serve the needs of the development and that will better serve the city as a whole. The city council ordered a sewer improvement study in 2001 and a sewer improvement project on June 10, 2002. This project involves replacing the existing sewer line (that is near the creek) with a new line that will run through the development. This city project will also include the installation of the trail through the site and the sidewalk along the south side of Maryland Avenue. The city engineer expects the contractor to have this improvement project done by winter. Fire Department Review On-Street Parking Standards The applicant is proposing private driveways within the PUD with widths from 20 feet to 28 feet in the development. I had the Fire Chief and Fire Marshal review the proposed driveways and their widths. According to Article 9, Section 902 of the Uniform Fire Code, all fire access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet. As such, all the streets and driveways in this development must be.at least 20 feet wide with no parking on either side of the street. If the developer or the city wants to allow parking on one side of the driveways, then they must be at least 28 feet wide. Any driveway that is less than 28 feet wide must be posted for no parking on both sides. Building Design, Site Layout and Landscaping Building Design Review - Detached Townhouses The proposed detached townhouses would be attractive and would fit in with the design of the existing buildings in the area. They would have two styles or floor plans (A or B) with three exteriors available for each floor plan. Specifically, the exteriors would have a mix of horizontal vinyl siding (with a wood grain finish in neutral tones), bdck, vinyl tdm, shakes and shutters, a partial wainscot of brick on the front elevations, and the roofs would have asphalt shingles. Each unit also would have a concrete patio outside its front door. (See the proposed elevations on pages 23 through 27 and the enclosed project drawings.) Building Design Review' - Apartment Buildings The proposed apartment buildings would be attractive and would fit in with the design of the existing and proposed buildings in the area. Specifically, the exteriors would have a mix of horizontal vinyl siding (in dark tan and light tan) with a horizontal band, shingle siding on gable ends, vinyl trim and shutters, a partial wainscot of brick on the front elevations. In addition, the roofs would be dark brown fiberglass shingles. Each unit also would have a concrete patio or a deck. (See the proposed elevations on page 28 and the enclosed project drawings.) Trees The applicant completed a tree inventory of all the large trees on the site. This inventory found 438 large trees on the property (an average of 16.2 trees per acre), not counting aspen and poplar trees. The plans, however, are not clear about how many of these trees the contractor would remove. If the contractor removed all the large trees in the two areas noted for tree removal, they would remove 46 trees. Based on the noted removal areas, it appears that the proposed plans save most of the large trees, including the large area of pines along the south side of the stream. The code requires the developer to save at least ten trees per acre or in this case, 270 trees. The proposed plan also shows the planting of 234 new trees, including a variety of birch, spruce, linden, maple, ash and oak trees. As noted on the landscape plans, the developer will be saving and planting more than enough trees to meet the tree replacement requirements of the city. Landscaping/Screening The overall landscape and tree planting plan for the project is good. As proposed, each of the detached town houses (except Numbers 17 and 39) would get a tree, and there would be many trees in the common areas of the site. The developer, however, should further develop the proposed landscaping plan (page 21 and in the project plans) to increase the screening and pdvacy between the proposed town houses and the existing single dwellings and town houses to the south and east. There are at least two areas that the developer should add more trees or another type of screening method. Specifically, the additional trees in these areas should include Austrian Pine, Black Hills Spruce, Eastern Red Cedar and Eastern Arborvitae for screening. These additional planting areas should be located: (2) Along the south property line of the site near the existing house on Sterling Street. Along the west side of the site near Lakewood Drive (to screen the site and buildings from Beaver Lake). The evergreen trees in these locations shall be in staggered rows (if possible) and are to provide screening that is at least 80 percent opaque. Specifically, the developer should extend the trees along the south side of the site (on the south side of Sterling Circle) to at least the west side of Sterling Lane. These trees are to help screen the new buildings and driveways from the existing house on Sterling Street. For the west side of the site, the new trees must be tall and large enough to screen all the new buildings from the surface of Beaver Lake. The developer has provided a typical planting plan (on pages 22 and 23) for the area around each detached town house and for the area around the apartment buildings. These plans are acceptable. The project plans show tree planting around some of the ponding areas. These areas, to work as bioretention basins and as site amenities, will need more detailed landscaping plans that the city engineer must approve. These areas should have a variety of shrubs (including Alpine Current, Yew, Glossy Black Choke Berry, American Cranberry (short cultivar), Purple Leaf Sand Cherry and Dogwood) to provide a vadety of colors and textures. Lighting The lighting plan specifies 15 freestanding lights be placed throughout the development. The developer is proposing eight-sided lantern style lights as shown on page 29. In addition, the builders will be installing lights on the front of the units. The developer still needs to submit an overall photometric plan for the site for staff approval. CONCLUSION The project plans will provide the city with additional housing in two styles not common in Maplewood. While many of the neighbors would prefer no or little development of the property, the property owner has the right to develop and use his land. The current proposal provides protection for the stream and wetlands on the site while giving the owner the opportunity to develop the site. This balance is something the city should strive for with every development. RECOMMENDATION Approve the project design plans (architectural, landscaping and lighting) for the Beaver Lake Townhouses (dated June 19, 2002.) The city bases this approval on the findings required by the code. The developer or contractor shall do the following: 1. Repeat this review in two years if the city has not issued a building permit for this project. 2. Complete the following before the city issues a building permit: Have the city engineer approve final construction and engineering plans. These plans shall include the grading, utility, drainage, erosion control, tree, trail, sidewalk and driveway and parking lot plans. The plans shall meet the following conditions and requirements of the assistant city engineer and the following: (1) The erosion control plans shall be consistent with the city code. (2) The grading plan shall show: (a) The proposed building pad elevation and contour information for each building site. The lot lines on this plan shall follow the approved preliminary plat. (b) Contour information for all the land that the construction will disturb. (c) Building pads that reduce the grading on site where the developer can save large trees. (d) The street, driveway and trail grades as allowed by the city engineer. (e) All proposed slopes on the construction plans. The city engineer shall approve the plans, specifications and management practices for any slopes steeper than 3:1. On slopes steeper than 3:1, the developer shall prepare and implement a stabilization and planting plan. These slopes shall be protected with wood fiber blanket, be seeded with a no- maintenance vegetation and be stabilized before the city approves the final plat. All retaining walls on the plans. Any retaining walls taller than four feet require a building permit from the city. The developer shall install a protective rail or fence on top of any retaining wall that is taller than four feet. (g) Sedimentation basins or ponds as required by the watershed board or by the city engineer. (h) No grading beyond the plat boundary without temporary grading easements from the affected property owner(s). (i) No grading or ground disturbance (except where utilities or trails are installed) in the: 1. Required wetland and stream buffer areas. Park Dedication area. This land will be for city park and open space purposes. The developer and contractors shall protect the park dedication area, including the grove of coniferous trees (pines) (an area of natural significance) that is in and near the south side of the stream corridor, from encroachment from equipment, grading or filling. 0) City-required trails are allowed in the buffer and park dedication areas. Additional information for the property south of the project site. This shall include elevations of the existing ditch, culverts and catch basins and enough information about the storm water flow path from the proposed ponds. (k) Emergency overflows between Lots 8 and 9, Lots 21 and 22 and south of proposed building 42 (out of proposed ponds 1, 3 and 4). The contractor shall protect the overflow swales with permanent soil-stabilization blankets. Restoration in the stream corridor and park dedication area being done with native seed mix or vegetation as approved by the city engineer and by the watershed district. (m) No grading or ground disturbance in the park dedication area and in the wetland and stream buffer areas except: 1. As allowed by the watershed district. 2. For the utilities, trails and footbridge. (n) The required trailS and sidewalks. (o) Revised storm water pond locations and designs as suggested or required by the watershed district or city engineer. The ponds shall meet the city's design standards. (3) The tree plan shall: (a) Show where the developer or contractor will remove, save or replace large trees. (b) (4) Show the size, species and location of the replacement and screening trees. The new screening trees shall be grouped together and shall: Include the planting of additional native evergreens and shrubbery on the site to provide additional screening and privacy between the proposed town houses and the existing single dwellings and town houses. The additional trees should include Austdan Pine, Black Hills Spruce, Eastern Red Cedar and Eastern Arborvitae. These additional trees shall be located along the south property line of the site to at least the west edge of Stealing Lane and along the west side of the site to screen the proposed buildings from view from Beaver Lake. The trees in these locations shall be at least six feet tall, in staggered rows (if possible) and are' to provide screening that is at least 80 percent opaque. (c) The new deciduous trees shall be at least two and one half (2 1/2) inches in diameter and shall be a mix of red and white oaks, ash, lindens, sugar maples or other native species. The coniferous trees shall be at least eight (8) feet tall and shall be a mix of Austdan Pine, Black Hills Spruce and other species. (d) Show no tree removal beyond the approved grading and tree limits. (e) Include for city staff a detailed tree planting plan and matedal list. (f) Group the new trees together. These planting areas shall be: 1. near the ponding areas 2. along the west side of the site to screen the buildings from view from Beaver Lake 3. along the south side of the site to screen the development from the existing house to the south 4. on the slopes The developer may use the tree groupings to separate the different types of residences. (g) Show the planting of at least 270 trees after the site grading is done. All the parking areas and driveways shall have continuous concrete curb and gutter. (5) The site, street, driveway, sidewalk and utility plans shall show: (a) A six-foot-wide concrete sidewalk along the south side of Maryland Avenue between Sterling Street and the west property line of the site. The public works director shall approve the location and design of the sidewalk. 9 (b) A water service to each detached housing unit. (c) The repair of Maryland Avenue and Sterling Street (street and boulevard) after the developer connects to the public utilities and builds the private driveways. This shall include replacing all unused existing driveways and curb cuts. (d) The coordination of the water main locations, alignments and sizing with the standards and requirements of the Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS). Fire-flow requirements and hydrant locations shall be vedfied with the Maplewood Fire Department. (e) The plan and profiles of the proposed utilities. (f) All driveways at least 20 feet wide. If the developer wants to have parking on one side of a driveway, then that ddveway must be at least 28 feet wide. (g) All driveways less than 28 feet in width shall be posted for "No Parking" on both sides. Driveways at least 28 feet wide may have parking on one side and shall be posted for no parking on one side. (h) All parking stalls with a width of at least nine feet and a length of at least 18 feet. Submit a certificate of survey for all new construction and have each building staked by a registered land surveyor. Revise the landscape plan for city staff approval showing: (1) The planting of additional native evergreens and shrubbery on the site to provide additional screening and privacy between the proposed town houses and the existing single dwellings and town houses. This shall be as noted in the tree plan condition noted above. (2) Also show the ponding areas and along the proposed trails between buildings 8 and 9 and buildings 21 and 22 planted with a variety of shrubs. These should include Alpine Current, Yew, Glossy Black Choke Berry, American Cranbemj (short cultivar), Purple Leaf Sand Cherry and Dogwood. These plantings are to provide a variety of colors and textures on the site, are to provide separation between uses and shall be subject to the approval of the city engineer. (3) All lawn areas shall be sodded. The city engineer shall approve the vegetation within the ponding areas and on the steep slopes. On slopes steeper than 3:1, the developer shall prepare and implement a stabilization and planting plan. These slopes shall be protected with a wood fiber blanket, be seeded with a no- maintenance vegetation and be stabilized before the city approves the final plat. (4) Having in-ground irrigation for all landscape areas (code requirement). ]0 (5) The restoration of all disturbed areas within the stream corridor and park dedication area with a native seed mix approved by the watershed district and by the city engineer. Show city staff that Ramsey County has recorded the deeds and all homeowner's association documents for this development before the city will issue a certificate of occupancy for the first town house unit. e. Submit a photometric plan for staff approval as required by the city code. f. Submit samples of all building materials for the buildings to the city for staff approval. Complete the following before occupying the buildings: a. Replace property irons that are removed because of this construction and set new property irons for the new property corners. Restore and sod damaged boulevards and sod all turf areas outside of the ponding areas. Co Install a reflectodzed stop sign at the Lakewood Ddve exit, no parking signs along the private driveways as required by code and addresses on each building for each unit. In addition, the applicant shall install stop signs and traffic directional signs within the site, as required by staff. Construct a six-foot-wide concrete public sidewalk between Steding Street and the west property line of the site. The Maplewood Public Works Director shall approve the location and design of the sidewalk. so Complete the site grading and install all required landscaping (including the foundation plantings), ponding areas and an in-ground lawn irrigation system for all landscaped areas (code requirement). fo Install continuous concrete curb and gutter along all intedor driveways and around all open parking stalls. Install on-site lighting for security and visibility, subject to city staff approval. Construct two-rail split-rail fences along the trails in the following locations: (1) From Beaver Creek Parkway between Lots 8 and 9 to near the stream in the center of the site. (2) From Sterling Circle between Lots 21 and 22 to near the stream in the center of the site. If the contractor has not completed any required work, the city may allow temporary occupancy if: a. The city determines that the work is not essential to the public health, safety or Welfare. ]] bo The city receives cash escrow or an irrevocable letter of credit for the required work. The amount shall be 150 percent of the cost of the unfinished work. Any unfinished landscaping shall be completed by June 1 if the building is occupied in the fall or winter, or within six weeks of occupancy if the building is occupied in the spring or summer. c. The city receives an agreement that will allow the city to complete any unfinished work. 5. All work shall follow the approved plans. The director of community development may approve minor changes. REFERENCE INFORMATION SITE DESCRIPTION Site size: 27 acres Existing land use: Undeveloped SURROUNDING LAND USES North: South: West: East: Rosewood Estates and Beaver Lake Manufactured Home Park across Maryland Avenue Houses on Lakewood Ddve and on Sterling Street and city ponding area Rosewood Estates and Ramsey County open space across Lakewood Ddve Town houses and quad-homes across Sterling Street PLANNING Existing Land Use Plan designation: R-3(M) (medium density residential) Existing Zoning: R-3 (multiple-family residential) CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL Section 25-70 of the city code requires that the CDRB make the following findings to approve plans: That the design and location of the proposed development and its relationship to neighboring, existing or proposed developments and traffic is such that it will not impair the desirability of investment or occupation in the neighborhood; that it will not unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of neighboring, existing or proposed developments; and that it will not create traffic hazards or congestion. That the design and location of the proposed development is in keeping with the character of the surrounding neighborhood and is not detrimental to the harmonious, orderly and attractive development contemplated by this article and the city's comprehensive municipal plan. That the design and location of the proposed development would provide a desirable environment for its occupants, as well as for its neighbors, and that it is aesthetically of good composition, materials, textures and colors. PAST ACTIONS On March 20, 1980, the city council approved a preliminary plat, street vacation and a planned unit development (PUD) for this site called Beaver Lake Hills. This plan was for 46 4-unit buildings (184 units). The preliminary plat approval was subject to eight conditions and the PUD approval was subject to nine conditions. On December 13, 1983, after several time extensions, the city's approval of the preliminary plat and PUD for the Beaver Lake Hills development expired. ]3 On February 27, 1984, the city council changed the zoning map for the property on the south side of Maryland Avenue between Lakewood Drive and Steding Street. This change was from F (farm residence) to R-3 (multiple dwellings). On March 12, 2001, the city council held a public hearing to consider a development proposal by Mr. Emmerich for this site. This plan had 162 housing units in 42 detached town houses and 120 rental housing units in 15 8-unit buildings. At this meeting, the applicant agreed to a time extension for city council action until May 14, 2001. This time extension was to allow the developer to possibly redesign the project and to have a meeting with the neighbors. On May 14, 2001, the city council considered a revised proposal for this site. This plan had 148 housing units in 42 detached town houses and 106 rental housing units in 4 and 8-unit buildings. At this meeting, the city council ordered the hiring of an independent consultant to prepare an environmental assessment worksheet (EAVV) for this proposal. They ordered the EAW because of potential significant issues including traffic, effects on the creek bed, the size of the proposed buffer area and storm water ponding and run-off concerns. On September 24, 2001, the city council received all comments and responses to the EAW and the proposed findings of fact for the proposed project. It is important to note that the EAW recommended that the developer make several changes to the project plans to make the project more sensitive to the existing environmental conditions on the property. At this same meeting, the council also adopted resolution 01-09-91 about the Beaver Lake Townhomes PUD EAW. This resolution made a "finding of no significant impact" (FONSI) from the proposed project. The resolution also stated that the environmental review rules had been met and that the potential environmental effects were not considered significant enough to warrant the preparation of an environmental impact statement (ELS). p:/sec25/beavr TH CDRB.mem Attachments: 1. Location Map 2. Area Map 3. Property Line/Zoning Map 4. Site Plan dated 03-12-02 5. Proposed Utility Plan dated 03-12-02 6. Proposed Grading Plan dated 03-12-02 7. Proposed Landscape and Tree Location Plan dated 06-19-02 8. Proposed 8 Unit Landscape Plan dated 06-19-02 9. Proposed Single Family Landscaping Plan dated 06-19-02 10. Proposed Single Family Building A Elevations dated 06-19-02 11. Proposed Single Family Building A Elevations dated 06-19-02 12. Proposed Single Family Building B Elevations dated 06-19-02 13. Proposed Single Family Building B Elevations dated 06-19-02' 14. Proposed Apartment Building Elevations dated 06-19-02 15. Proposed Outdoor Lighting Fixture Detail 16. Project Plans dated June 19, 2002 (separate attachments - including 11x17s and full-sized) ]4 Attachment 1 i IBINC/,MEW M L, OCATION MAP 15 Attachment 2 PROJECT SITE L Limit on Liability: This document is not a legally recorded map or survey and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records and information from various state, county, and city offices, and other sources. °U Current Layers; ROADS96; STRUCTURES96; WATER96; HALFSECL; LIMITSA; PARREG; LIMITSP AREA MAP Attachment 3 I l I .-:'-'~:"'I":" I RANIUM AVE. II (~) I BEAVER LAKE MANUFACTURED HOME PARK ..... MARYLAND AVENUE -- ROSEWOOD ESTATES _~pROjEC~ SITE 0 -rD :-:-:~= -.:--, I PROJECT SITE "°1085 1083 Te'T~t. =ROSE AVE. GERANIUM .' 1084 17 ROSEWOOD ESTATES ., ...' (uo~,pened) Attachment 4 EAS'T ROS A VENUE GERANIUM A VENUE I · ':' i 1115 SITE PLAN 18 Attachment 5 ROSEWOOD // 1115 PROPOSED UTILITY 19 PLAN Attachment 6 PLaN D~'TAIL [-- : ,, FOR AJE COMPANIES, INC. In Tl~e City Of Maplewood ROSEWOOD ESTATES EAS-'*I' RO$1 A VENUE I GERANIUM A VENUE 1115 2O Attachment 7 ,t ,t' IARDSCAPE & THRE LOCATION PLAN OF B.~Ir~R I.~ ~ TO FOR ~ COMPAN~$, ~ ~AST RO~ AVeNUe. ',1 I m mmsmmm mmmmm 21 Attachment 8 ?? Attachment 9' I L 23 Attachment l0 Attachment 11 25 Attachment 12 ~c~y c ~ c V~T~N il|fi Attachment 13 27 SJ_Nql/~IEIVcI¥ Attachment 14 Attachment 15 Outdoor Lighting Lantern Luminaire The timeless styling o£ the eight sided lantern revives memories o£ the ro~g 1920s ~ its aes~edc~y pleas~g desi~, w~e its supe~orpe~o~ce adapts we~ to any street-scape h~h~g p~o/eca Tlds lund~aire is available in 100 and 150 watt HPS (High Pressure So~h'um) The opdcal assembly consists 0£9 glass refractor opera[Lug in con/unction with a £otraed aluminum re.actor located in top cover. Tlds retractor system is deM~ed to control the cb'srdbudon of h'ght to maximize utilization and uniformi~. The glass wilI not discolor (turn yellow) over dine h'ke the actyHcs o~ polycarbonate lens. Tlds re~actor -- proddes lES Ope III light ~h'stdbudon. The housing is made of cast alurainum and is ffmished with a polyester po wder pain t to 'insure maximum durabib'O! The stand~_rd color is black. COVER LATCH ELECTRICAL MODULE WITH TV~STLOCK RE SLIP FIT-T'ER FOR .... -- NOMINAL 3" DIA. TENON !6-3/8". [ACROSS THE FLATS) .._--- SPIKE FINIAL  tI t! ~...~ OPTICAL [ [ . ~-~" ASSEMBLY Iii ]~ ~j NOM. HEIGHT '""" SE~ SCREWS 29