05-20-2002 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday,May 20,2002 6:30 o'clock p.m. (#02-2782 KARL BERG,Continued) Gaffron pointed out that the original parcel is nominally 2.0 acres and was created to accommodate the Hennepin County Library, which was never built. He stated that given the fact that the site exists as a separate parcel and the proposed use conforms to the CMP and the B-6 district, an area variance from the 5-acre standard for PUD rezoning of the site may be reasonable. With reference to the access and circulation plans, Gaffron noted that an easement will be required for the existing trail on the property paralleling Old Crystal Bay Road. In relationship to the surrounding development, Gaffron indicated that the property is south of the City Office facilities, across from the school facility, and north of the industrial property across Highway 12. This is a flat site, drainage currently runs northeast through the wetland between City Hall and Public Works. Gaffron stated that the proposed building was oriented at an angle to take advantage of the visibility from the intersection to the southwest. A one-way road along the SE perimeter would serve 4 parking stalls and provide full access around the building, at the expense of green space. While the fire marshal does not require this perimeter drive, access under the current layout would be tight, and the applicants don't wish to lose any valuable parking space. Gaffron continued that the applicant proposes 2 monument signs on the site. While no standards for signage are spelled out in the B-6 code, the proposed office space would be most similar to the B-4 district standards. Gaffron went on to note that the larger of the two signs will require a sign variance. Finally,the applicant will need to submit a final lighting plan for review. Staff estimates the ratio of 25% green space, 20%building, and 55%parking/sidewalk/patio/driving with this plan. As a resident of the Orono area,Dr. Berg explained that he was excited about the opportunity to open a clinic near his home. With regard to the proposed plans, Dr. Berg stated that his biggest concerns were that the trail needed to remain in its current location,which in turn, impacted the drop off location for the building. He maintained that one hardship they face is circulation of the building,the trail has diminished the visibility of the drop off site and made circulation tough, which is the reason they have proposed a road which runs around the building. Dr. Kottemann concurred, adding only that their focus was on developing a nice,professional, convenient building which flows well. There were no public comments. PAGE 12