HomeMy WebLinkAboutMarch 26, 2024
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETING – MARCH 26, 2024
The Regular Bi-Monthly Meeting of the Andover Planning and Zoning Commission was
called to order by Chairperson Godfrey on March 26, 2024, 7:00 p.m., at the Andover City
Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota.
Commissioners present: Chairperson Karen Godfrey, Commissioners Scott Hudson,
Bert Koehler IV, Nick Loehlein, Jon Shafto, Pat Shuman Jr.
and Ryan Winge
Commissioners absent: None
Also present: Community Development Director Joe Janish, and City
Planner Peter Hellegers
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
February 28, 2024 Regular Meeting
Staff noted a correction to page 3, line 42, Gevaro was misspelled.
Commissioner Koehler noted misspelling of his name on page 3, line 23, removing the “IV”.
Motion by Shafto, seconded by Koehler, to approve the minutes of the February 28, 2024
Regular Meeting as revised. Motion carried on a 6-ayes, 0-nays, 1-present (Winge), 0-
absent vote.
PUBLIC HEARING: Planned Unit Development – Andover Senior Campus – PID# 23-
32-24-32-0006 and 23-32-24-33-0002 (Applicant – JA Wedum Foundation).
Community Development Director Janish reviewed the Planning and Zoning Commission
is asked to review a Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Property that will be known as
Andover Senior Campus. On May 24, 2022, the Planning and Zoning Commission and on
June 7, 2022, the City Council reviewed a Sketch Plan for this project. The Commission
and Council also saw a revised sketch of the most recent Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes – March 26, 2024
Page 2
in November 2023. On March 4, 2024 the City Council amended the Comprehensive Plan
and rezoned the property. Mr. Janish indicated the property on a drawing.
The PUD is requested by J.A. Wedum Foundation and the property is currently planned
for a senior residential project with an age restriction of 55 years or older. Mr. Janish
provided an overview of the project:
1.5 acres of Neighborhood Commercial, up to a 10,000 square foot building.
A total of 217 age restricted units are proposed.
o Two brownstone buildings (16 units each).
o 9 slab on grade cottages.
o 176 units in a single, multi-story building; consisting of 110 independent
living units, 40 assisted living units, 24 memory care units and 2 guest
suites for visitors.
Andover’s 2018 Comprehensive Plan indicates that properties for multi-family
developments are to be a Planned Unit Development (PUD). City Code 13-3-9 regulates
the findings that are required for a PUD to be approved and 13-3-11 identifies desirable
PUD design standards that are sought in any PUD proposal. As part of the attached PUD
Narrative, the applicant addresses the design qualities they believe the city seeks when
granting for a PUD proposal. The property is within the Metropolitan Urban Service Area
(MUSA) Boundary and is guided and zoned for Neighborhood Commercial and
Residential High Density (20-25 units per acre). Lot 3 is zoned NB. 1.5 Acres, Lot 1, 2,
and 4 zoned M-3 Multi-Family High Density 11.84 Acres. Mr. Janish explained a
comparison between sketch and proposal.
Mr. Janish reviewed Street Improvements including Internal Roadways, Crosstown Blvd
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NW, 150 Lane NW, Bluebird Street NW, and Crosstown Blvd NW and Bluebird Street
NW. He also reviewed Trees/Landscape, Utilities, and Signage. A rendering of the
buildings was provided along with construction materials.
The PUD Criteria according to City Code 13-3 Planned Unit Development was reviewed
with required findings.
1. The proposed development is not in conflict with the goals of the Comprehensive
Plan for the City.
2. The proposed development is designed in such a manner as to form a desirable and
unified environment within its own boundaries.
3. The proposed development demonstrates how each modified or waived
requirement contributes to achieving the purpose of PUD.
4. The PUD is of composition, and arrangement that its construction, marketing, and
operation are feasible as a complete unit without dependence upon any subsequent
unit.
Mr. Janish reviewed the Proposed PUD Standards and noted the applicant is requesting
flexibility in the bulk area standards including size, dimension, and density. A table
depicting the proposed conceptual PUD standards was provided. The Zoning and Lot
Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes – March 26, 2024
Page 3
Standards were reviewed including Lot Area, Side Yard Setback, Rear Yard Setback,
Parking Stall Width, Number of Underground/Garage Parking Stalls, Shared Access &
Private Streets, Building Height, Other Standards, and Owner’s Association. Mr. Janish
noted the other 55+ Buildings in Andover are Arbor Oaks, The Farmstead, and Estates at
Arbor Oaks. The number of parking spaces was indicated for each.
Mr. Janish reviewed the lot area and noted City Code would require the site to be larger by
roughly 4 acres based on bedrooms. An additional 4 acres would not meet the density of
20-25 units per acre as identified in the Comprehensive Plan. The cottages have a side and
rear yard setback of 10’ proposed from 30’. This is 10’ from the property line they are
creating. The brownstones are proposed for a 10’ setback from the property line. All units
will be operated under an association as well as the commercial property. The
underground parking width requested is 9’. The commercial site is planning for 1 stall per
250 sf. For the overall development there is 1.4 parking stalls. Mr. Janish reviewed shared
access and private streets stating there is one owner for residential properties, fire turning
radius works, ingress and egress easements are needed at time of final plat. The owners
association provides a mechanism for maintenance and replacement of common elements
of the development, including on the commercial property.
City Code 12-3-5: Minimum District Requirements: B. Maximum Height, allows principal
buildings to exceed the height limits imposed by provisions provided it is determined that:
A. Adequate fire protection and other safety features are provided - The buildings
would be fully sprinkled with a NEPA 13 system, including standpipes and
coordination with Andover Fire on appropriate access for specific equipment, and
distances are the provisions.
B. The height and bulk of the building will not destroy a scenic or appropriate view,
will not shut off light and air from surrounding properties, or otherwise be
detrimental to the public – A shadow study had been conducted and does not cast
shadows onto existing homes. Building uses several stories to minimize massing
near residential properties. IL/AL/MC building meets or exceeds setbacks for the
zoning district.
C. In no event, however, shall any building occupy more than the permitted
percentage of lot area as provided in this title – IL/AL/MC building occupies
16.2% of the lot.
Drawings were shown for the building height. The Pitched and flat roof would both be
approximately 47’ – 2” in height by City Code. City Code exempts parapet walls
extending not more than 4’ above the height of a building. 54’ overall height 3 stories with
pitched roof and 49’ 5” overall height 4 stories flat roof. A comparison was shown to
existing buildings within Andover.
The applicant is proposing a double sided, lit monument sign entrance at Crosstown.
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Smaller unlit signage directing visitors to appropriate buildings onsite, including 150
noting the entrance is for staff, and deliveries. Sign on the building wall is anticipated to
be higher than 10 feet but not higher than 47 feet.
Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes – March 26, 2024
Page 4
For trees and landscaping 531 trees have been identified for removal. Grading and
stormwater are the cause of removal. Emerald Ash Borer is also present. Irrigation will be
required and 101 trees, 768 shrubs, 504 annuals/perennials and 343 potted grasses will be
planted. A diagram of the buffering from the commercial property and from the parking
area was shown. The berm may need to be modified after the roundabout is created to deal
with stormwater.
The Park and Recreation Commission recommended cash in lieu of park land dedication
to the City Council. Mr. Janish reviewed the stormwater information. The current report is
138 pages in length.
The Planning Commission is requested to take public testimony and make a
recommendation to the City Council for their consideration on April 2, 2024.
Also included for Commission consideration were Draft Resolution for Approval, Draft
Resolution for Denial, 2018 Comprehensive Plan Goals, City Code 13-3 Planned Unit
Development, Applicants Narrative, Staff Comments, Chapter 11 Neighborhood Business
Uses, Building Height Comparison, Brownstones Elevations, Cottages Elevations,
Commercial Elevations, IL/AL/MC Elevations, Overall PUD Site Plan and Preliminary
Plat Plan Sheet (a total of 73 pages).
Mr. Janish stated two emails were received by Staff regarding this matter. They were
provided to the Commission.
Commissioner Koehler asked Mr. Janish about screening for air conditioning units on top
of the roofs. Mr. Janish stated the mechanical equipment on the roof is not included in the
height of the building. There are two options either the screening or the painting of the
mechanical equipment on a roof. Commissioner Koehler asked if the builder would be
able to put solar panels on the roof and Mr. Janish stated the code would allow for that.
Commissioner Koehler asked if the fire equipment could reach the top of the buildings.
Mr. Janish showed the access and how the aerial apparatus could be used to fight the fire.
Commissioner Koehler asked if there is a maximum size for the sign and Mr. Janish stated
100 sf sign is the code and it could be lit.
Commissioner Loehlein asked about the deviations from Code being reviewed this
evening. He referred to row 3 – the sf per bedroom falls within the range; row 12 – the
number of parking spaces exceeds the requirement for elderly housing; and row 15 –
building height and why it shows 49’ 5” for all three types of housing. The lot area for 2
bedrooms are short as being 2,430 and should be 2,500. Mr. Janish reviewed the parking
spaces requirement of 1 stall per unit. The building height for the independent living is 49’
5”.
Commissioner Shafto asked about the timing. When is the roundabout going in vs. when
the PUD would go in. Mr. Janish stated it is his understanding the applicant would like to
Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes – March 26, 2024
Page 5
start construction in Fall of 2024. In 2025 and 2026 the roundabouts will be constructed as
the PUD is close to being completed as not to close off Crosstown for both.
Commissioner Shuman asked about the double-sided lit sign on Crosstown and Hanson.
He asked if there were size restrictions on this sign. Mr. Janish stated it would be under
10’ in height and 100 sf.
Chair Godfrey opened the public hearing at 7:40 p.m.
Mr. Janish summarized the two emails received. The first email was from Steph Ludgins,
15163 Bluebird, they are concerned about the development. They do not want a 4 story
building or a senior facility when the others in town are not full. They suggested putting
the development off Hanson and Jay street. The neighborhood will be disrupted. This is
not a good area for this development.
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The second email was from Eugene Benson, 1292 149 Lane NW, feels the pros of the
development outweigh the cons. He prefers this development to a strip mall. His concerns
are the SE quadrant of the roundabout and the impact on the Bluebird Street. The trail on
the South side of Crosstown is narrow. He questioned parking and the proximity to some
of the buildings. The 3 unit townhome does not fit well in the neighborhood. He suggested
all townhomes be of the 2 unit style.
Ms. Sarah Kern, 1301 American Boulevard, Bloomington, architect for the project, stated
they are looking at a Spring 2025 start. The interior road will not have parking. Guests
would park on driveways of the townhomes. There will not be any mechanical units on
top of the 4 story building.
Mr. Craig Hendrickson, 4951 Drake Street, asked what the impact will be on property
value. There are a lot of changes to try to make this development fit. The location is not a
good fit with current traffic patterns. A facility like that produces a lot of business traffic
in and out of the development. A 4-story building will affect the wind. This parcel has
been for sale for a long time at a very high price. There are better areas in the City for this
project.
Ms. Jan Klensing, 15150 Avocet, she is concerned about the roundabout with all the foot
traffic in the area of kids going to school or the YMCA. It is a very busy intersection with
people walking.
Ms. Kari Boswell, 15035 Drake Street, stated it is frustrating that they have questions they
want addressed but do not receive any answers. The neighbors have been very clear they
do not want this development. Things are pushed through without concern to residents’
comments. Previously it looked like the development was not as high or large. Has this
changed. The resident’s are strongly affected by this. She finds this highly offensive. The
developer is getting everything they are asking for. She would like some answers.
Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes – March 26, 2024
Page 6
Mr. Mark Smith, 5402 Parkdale Drive, explained the applicant changed from JA Weedam
Foundation as the owner and it continues to be Silvercrest.
Mr. Steve Koons, 1973 Sloan Place, Maplewood, developer on the project, explained the
JA Weedam Foundation is a non-profit that owns senior buildings. Silvercrest will be the
manager/operator of the project. Property values should continue to increase as they have
been. A traffic study was done that determined there would not be a significant impact to
the traffic there. The roundabout will assist in traffic movement.
Mr. Janish stated other senior buildings when constructed did not show any decrease in
surrounding property values. At one time there was a 3 story co-op building in the plan
that has since been removed. There are now fewer cottages from 32 units to 9 units. The
roundabout will take a look at how to move pedestrians from one side to the other side.
This is looked at by the City’s Engineering Department.
Chair Godfrey asked if the City will have public hearings before the roundabout
construction begins and Mr. Janish stated there will be neighborhood meetings. Mr. Janish
stated the traffic study was updated and shows a lower number of trips with fewer units.
Mr. Craig Hendrickson shared the frustration about the lack of dialog with the residents.
He does not feel they have any impact on this. They have been paying taxes but don’t
have opportunities to share with the City of what they want.
Chair Godfrey closed the public hearing at 8:05 p.m.
Commissioner Koehler stated that when the Commission first reviewed a sketch plan for
the proposed development, there were 232 units in the project and commercial space of up
to 12,000 square feet. Since that time the applicant has responded to feedback and scaled
their project back by decreasing the total number units in the project. Mr. Janish stated the
applicant reviewed the comments received during previous review and modified their
proposal to address those comments. Commissioner Koehler stated there has been a sign
on the site advertising it for sale for commercial development for at least 20 years. Mr.
Janish stated that is correct and that development of this site has been contemplated by the
City through its comprehensive plan for decades in various forms and that the applicant
recently conducted comprehensive plan amendments, which were approved by the City,
that provide for commercial and residential development on this site. Commissioner
Koehler asked if when the site was guided for 100% commercial development, could 40%
of the site could have been covered by commercial buildings that were 35’ in height. Mr.
Janish responded that is correct. Mr. Koehler stated that the current proposal provides for
16% land coverage and asked if that was a decrease from the 40% allowed by the City
Code. Mr. Janish stated that is correct.
Motion by Loehlein, seconded by Shuman, to recommend the City Council approve the
Planned Unit Development, Andover Senior Campus, PID# 23-32-24-32-0006 and 23-32-
24-33-0002 (Applicant – JA Wedum Foundation).
Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes – March 26, 2024
Page 7
Commissioner Koehler stated he has some concerns about the number of parking spaces.
Mr. Janish stated the parking is 1.1.
Motion carried on a 6-ayes, 1-nay (Koehler) vote.
This will come before the City Council on April 2, 2024.
PUBLIC HEARING: Preliminary Plat – Andover Senior Campus – PID #23-32-24-32-
0006 and 23-32-24-33-0002 (Applicant – JA Wedum Foundation)
Community Development Director Joe Janish reviewed the Planning and Zoning
Commission is asked to review a Preliminary Plat for Andover Senior Campus. He
reviewed Conformance with Local Plans and Ordinances:
1. The property is located in the Metropolitan Urban Service Area (MUSA).
2. The applicant has proposed 1.5 acre Neighborhood Business (NB) lot and the
remaining property is Multiple Dwelling High Density (M-3) District. This is
consistent with the most recent Comprehensive Plan Amendment.
3. The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed a Planned Unit Development for
this property as the prior agenda item and the Preliminary Plat (if approved) will
be incorporated as part of the PUD.
Mr. Janish showed on a drawing where the ponding areas would be for the site along with
the stormwater piping.
Mr. Janish noted the proposed street access is consistent with the PUD. Each of the lots
will be served by City of Andover water and sewer. The applicant has submitted their
information into Coon Creek Watershed and continues to work through their process. He
continued to review Coordination with other Agencies, Tree Preservation/Landscaping,
and Stormwater Requirements. The lots are in compliance with the PUD.
Included for Commission consideration are Resolution of Approval, Resolution of Denial,
Staff Review Comments and Preliminary Plat Plan Set.
Chair Godfrey opened the public hearing at 8:18 p.m.
Mr. Janish summarized the two emails received. The first email was from Steph Ludgins,
15163 Bluebird Street, they are concerned about the development. They do not want a 4
story building or a senior facility when the others in town are not full. They suggested
putting the development off Hanson and Jay street. The neighborhood will be disrupted.
This is not a good area for this development.
th
The second email was from Eugene Benson, 1292 149 Lane NW, feels the pros of the
development outweigh the cons. He prefers this development to a strip mall. His concerns
are the southeast quadrant of the roundabout and the impact on Bluebird Street. The trail
Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes – March 26, 2024
Page 8
on the South side of Crosstown is narrow. He questioned parking and the proximity to
some of the buildings. The 3 unit townhome does not fit well in the neighborhood. He
suggested all townhomes be of the 2 unit style.
Chair Godfrey asked Mr. Janish to explain the difference between the Planned Unit
Development and the Preliminary Plat. Mr. Janish stated the PUD is a Conditional Use
Permit that provides an overlay for the zoning district. The PUD is a deviation from the
Codes to allow for the applicant to do something slightly different. If zoning requirements
are met the applicant is entitled to the rights of development. The recommendation to the
City Council is to modify with deviations from the Code.
Mr. Dennis Moline, 15062 Crane Street, asked if the documents they see on the screen are
available on the City’s website. He would like to look at the documents closer. Mr. Janish
stated on the public hearing notice is information on how to contact staff with further
questions. The link to the packet is also available upon request.
Chair Godfrey closed the public hearing at 8:30 p.m.
Commissioner Hudson asked about the full access on Bluebird and if there is any
deviation between preliminary plat and final plat. To minimize headlights shining into the
windows of the nearby houses would be desired. Mr. Janish stated he will follow-up with
the applicant.
Chair Godfrey referred to the presentation which indicated for Crosstown and Bluebird it
stated the applicant will provide coordinated participation in the construction of the
roundabout. Mr. Janish stated it means there will be language included in potential cost
participation. Administration is working with the applicant on the development agreement.
Motion by Loehlein, seconded by Hudson, to recommend the City Council approve
Preliminary Plat, Andover Senior Campus, PID #23-32-24-32-0006 and 23-32-24-33-0002
(Applicant – JA Wedum Foundation). Motion carried on a 7-ayes, 0-nays vote.
OTHER BUSINESS
Mr. Janish stated the Legacy at Peterson Farms recommendations to Council were
approved.
Commissioner Koehler asked for an update on the AT&T antenna. Mr. Janish stated he
has heard April.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Chair Godfrey assumed a motion to adjourn the meeting 8:40 p.m. Motion
carried by unanimous consent.
Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes – March 26, 2024
Page 9
Respectfully Submitted,
Debbie Wolfe, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION WORKSHOP MEETING
MARCH 26, 2024
The Workshop Meeting of the Andover Planning and Zoning Commission was called to
order by Chairperson Godfrey on March 26, 2024, 6:00 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685
Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota.
Commissioners present: Chairperson Karen Godfrey, Commissioners Scott Hudson,
Bert Koehler IV, Nick Loehlein, Jon Shafto, Pat Shuman Jr.
and Ryan Winge
Commissioners absent: None
Also present: Community Development Director Joe Janish, City Planner
Peter Hellegers
DISCUSSION – PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION TRAINING
CD Director Janish reviewed the following will be covered during the workshop:
Planning and Zoning Procedures
Open Meeting Law and Remote Meeting Participation Policy
Meeting Cadence
Other Topics/Questions
A copy of the Planning and Zoning Commission Procedures was provided for Commission
review. The Procedures include: General Information, Summary of Items Reviewed by the
Planning and Zoning Commission, Applying Law, City Code, Making Recommendations
Based on Findings of Fact, The Open Meeting Law, Remote Meeting Participation Policy,
and Typical Planning and Zoning Meeting Cadence. These were reviewed in detail by Staff.
Commissioner Koehler asked if the Commission is waiting for feedback from the applicant
is the 60 days extended. Mr. Janish stated the City could request an extension or the
applicant can provide an extension. Mr. Hellegers stated once all materials and information
is received the 60-days start. During the 15-day review period, Staff determines if all
information is received. Action cannot be taken on applications if it is not in line with the
Comprehensive Plan.
Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes – March 26, 2024
Page 10
Commissioner Hudson asked if action within 60 days is either recommending approval or
denial of the request. Mr. Janish stated that is correct.
The Comprehensive Plan is the guiding document that a City uses. There is guidance from
the Met Council.
Commissioner Koehler asked how many times an interim use permit can be renewed and
Mr. Janish stated there is not a cap.
There was a discussion about revising a PUD. All findings of fact are based on the Code.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion: Chair Godfrey assumed a motion to adjourn the meeting 6:45 p.m. Motion carried
by unanimous consent.
Respectfully Submitted,
Debbie Wolfe, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.