07-12-2010 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, July 12, 2010 • 7:00 o'clock p.m. (6. #10 -3472 WELSHSENIOR HOUSING, 875 WAYZATA BOULEVARD WEST, Continued) Murray stated there will be five 2- bedroom units and that there will be a mix of clientele. At times a relative will move in or an individual will just want the extra space and that it is nice to have the options with the different size units. The smaller and larger units tend to sell out quicker. McMillan commented she likes the flexibility in the size of the units. Murphy noted he did not see cooking facilities in the units. Murray indicated there is a kitchenette type structure within the units, which would include a range and a microwave in the one bedroom units. The studios are designed more for the assisted living and do not contain those items since the residents would be receiving all three meals. A kitchen is also available for those residents who may want to cook a meal periodically. Murray stated they have tended to find that the residents simply do not use the appliances and so they are disconnected to prevent accidents.. Lubben illustrated the construction materials they are proposing to utilize on the exterior of the facility. Erickson stated Ecumen engaged the services of a qualified market analyst and that this region has been evaluated thoroughly to ensure that they will be providing the appropriate services. That study has also resulted in a number of amenities being incorporated into the building. • Erickson stated he would ask the City Council to reconsider two of the conditions listed in Staff s report. One is that there is a city code requirement that the private road be paved to a minimum width of 28 feet. Welsh Companies would prefer to avoid that, which would enable them not to encroach closer to the wetland setbacks and avoid adding additional pervious surface. In addition, the 28 foot width leaves the impression of a more intense development. Welsh Companies has followed the City's new guidelines for conservation design master plan, which states that they will be using the existing driveway alignment and width in order to minimize additional impervious surface, limit corresponding storm water runoff, and maintain existing drainage patterns. Welsh Companies would like the Council to give some consideration to the 24 feet width they are proposing, particularly in light of the fact that there will be limited on street parking.. McMillan asked if the fire chief has commented on the width of the driveway. Erickson stated to his knowledge they have not received the comments of the fire chief in relation to that but that they have been given the okay on the clearances for the entrance canopy. Erickson indicated the second item deals with the park dedication fees and that they would request they be waived for the memory care units since the residents in those units will not be utilizing those park facilities. White asked what the difference is between preliminary plan approval and concept plan approval: • Mattick stated Welsh Companies is not going through the preliminary plat process because they are going through a concept plan process. This application is not talking about 55 different lots but simply one building with 55- units. Page 9 of 16