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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,September 17,2018 <br /> 6:30 o'clock p.m. <br /> possible in order to stay further away from the wetland and the wetland buffer. In addition, the smaller <br /> footprint allows for a bigger recreational area. <br /> Ryan stated some of the positives for the development are the 18 percent environmental impact,the <br /> higher density to meet the Metropolitan Council's goals,the existing infrastructure, and the cleanup of a <br /> landfill. Ryan indicated they are working with the MPCA on that. <br /> Landgraver asked how he envisions the senior housing to integrate with the overall building. <br /> Ryan stated whether it will be apartments or senior housing has not been determined yet. One of the <br /> things that has changed is that four units have been shifted over and Outlot B will be a full public right- <br /> of-way. Staff has suggested placing a cul-de-sac in that area, which will provide a good separation <br /> between those two products. <br /> Thiesse asked if there will be adequate parking. <br /> Ryan stated in their view there will be and that there will be underground parking. <br /> Lemke asked whether there are any concerns with water issues related to the underground parking. <br /> Ryan indicated they do not have any concerns based upon the soil borings they have taken. <br /> Lemke asked about traffic. <br /> Ryan stated Hennepin County is going to be redesigning that road and lowering the hill to make it safer. <br /> In addition,they will be looking at incorporating a turn-in lane or a bypass lane. Ryan noted the <br /> development is at the western boundary of the city, so the amount of traffic should not be that much. <br /> Libby noted there are a number of varying models for senior housing and that he would encourage them <br /> to embrace some of the different ideas. Libby stated the vacancy rates for senior housing are at an all- <br /> time low. <br /> Ryan indicated they will be updating their market research and taking a closer look at that. <br /> Erickson encouraged them to be open to the idea that a majority vote might come more easily if they stick <br /> to the 30-foot height. <br /> Thiesse commented the neighborhood might not be ready for a tall building but that this is a good <br /> location for this type of project. <br /> Libby asked where he sees the rents being and what type of apartment units there will be. <br /> Ryan indicated they do not have the layout yet but generally it will be a mix of one and two-bedroom <br /> units. <br /> Thiesse asked if there are any provisions for a trail along the roadway. <br /> Page 16 of 22 <br />