06-09-2003 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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M3-2889 .................. April 18,2003 Page 13 10. Plans should be revised to provide for pedestrian access connecting Orono Woods and the oflice complex sidewalks, as well as a connection to the existing sidewalks abutting Hwy 1 2. 11 . Plans should depict existing vegetation that will remain as screening to the north; it is critical to fill in any gaps in existing vegetative screening between the north parking lot and the Sugarwoods neighbortiood. What is the potential for relocating existing trees on the site? 12. Is there a need for screening and buffering between the office complex and the commercial properties to the immediate west? What landscaping methods are proposed to reduce the visual impact of the building as viewed fiom offsite, especially the view of retaining walls? 13. The applicants should address how or whether the individual buildings, entryways or walkways will be illuminated 14. Trash enclosure should be finished in materials/colors matching the facade of the buildings. 15. Applicant should indicate the proposed sign location, and indicate the nature of proposed individual unit signage. 16. Any other issues Planning Commission wishes to discuss. Staff Rccomineiidation: In general, staff believes the office condo concept proposed is an appropriate and relatively low- intensity use of this site as compared to other possible B-6 uses. The design of the buildings is attractive and of a residential character. Staff is concerned about the parking needs, about potential traffic flow impacts to the adjacent commercial use, and how this site will visually impact or be impacted by existing surrounding uses. Staff also has concerns about the proposed road and paridng lot grades, and would suggest that applicant should be advised to submit a revised grading plan addressing the City Engineer’s recommendations. Planning Commission should address site planning issues, including but not necessarily limited to the following: a) Is the scale and character of the buildings appropriate for the site, in terms of: • appropriate intensity of use and resultant impacts to surrounding properties, traffic, etc. - building setbacks • building height, number of stories - basemcnt/walkout exposure and elevation views - parking location and orientation - driveway layout, site access, interior circulation