HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 10, 1994
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CITY of ANDOVER
1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. . ANDOVER. MINNESOTA 55304 . (612) 755-5100
ANDOVER PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
MEETING AGENDA
May 10, 1994
The Andover Planning and Zoning Commission will hold their
regular meeting on Tuesday, May 10, 1994 at the City Hall
Offices, 1685 NW Crosstown Blvd. The meeting is scheduled to
begin at 7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
1.
Call to Order
2. Approval of Minutes: April 26, 1994
3. Public Hearing Continued: Special Use Permit -
Home Occupation in an Accessory Structure -
15135 Round Lake Boulevard NW - Diane M.
Forsland.
4. Public Hearing Continued: Amend Ordinance
No. 8, Sections 8.01 and 8.08 - Recreational
Vehicles.
5.
Variance - 13735 Round Lake Boulevard NW
McDonald's Corporation.
6. Sketch Plan - Section 12, Township 32, Range 24-
Steve Schmitt and Mal Allen.
7. Sketch Plan - Section 32 - Downtown Center
Second Addition - Andover Limited Partnership.
8. Discussion - Therapeutic Massage.
9. Other Business
10. Adjournment
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CITY of ANDOVER
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETING - MAY 10, 1994
MINUTES
The Regular Bi-Monthly Meeting of the Andover Planning and Zoning
Commission was called to order by Chairperson Jay Squires on May 10,
1994, 7:00 p.m. at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW,
Andover, Minnesota.
Commissioners present:
Bonnie Dehn (arrived at 7:05 p.m.), Becky
Pease (arrived at 7:05 p.m.), Randy Peek, Bev
Jovanovich, Jerry Putnam
Maynard Apel,
City Planner, David Carlberg
Others
Commissioners absent:
Also present:
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
April 26r 1994: Page 6, Second to last paragraph, change reference to
"Commissioner Peek..."
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MOTION by Peek, Seconded by Jovanovich, approval as amended.
carried on a 4-yes, 3-Absent (Apel, Dehn, Pease) vote.
Motion
(Commissioners Dehn and Pease arrived at this time, 7:05 p.m.)
PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUED: SPECIAL USE PERMIT, HOME OCCUPATION IN AN
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE - 15135 ROUND LAKE BOULEVARD NW, DIANE M. FORSLAND
7:05 p.m. Mr. Carlberg noted the letter from the applicant requesting
this item be withdrawn from the agenda. The Forslands have found a new
location for their operation in Anoka. He disputed that portion of the
letter, however, which stated he had indicated the application would
likely be approved. Mr. Carlberg stated there was no conversation to
that regard. The direction requested from the Council on this item will
be discussed at the May 17 Council meeting. He suggested the Commission
accept the letter and withdraw the item from the Agenda.
MOTION by Dehn, Seconded by Jovanovich, to so move. Motion carried on a
6-Yes, I-Absent (Apel) vote. 7:07 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUED: AMEND ORDINANCE NO.8, SECTIONS 8.01 AND 8.08
- RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
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7:07 p.m. Mr. Carlberg noted the Commission discussion two weeks ago
was the issue is not where the vehicles are parked nor their size, but
how long a guest could occupy and use the vehicle for sleeping purposes.
In researching the ordinances of other communities, he found the City of
Burnsville regulates this. There a guest may use an RV for sleeping
purposes for a period not to exceed seven consecutive days at one time
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
Page 2
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
nor more than fourteen days total in one calendar year. If the
Commission wishes to set a time limit, he suggested that same regulation
be used. Currently the ordinance does not regulate the length of stay
of guests sleeping in RVs. He also noted the current ordinance allows
the storage of boats, trailers, RVs, etc., in rear yards as long as they
do not exceed 20 feet in length. If they exceed 20 feet, they must be
stored within a structure or on a driveway; and no change is being
proposed to that provision.
Mr. Carlberg stated the reason for this discussion is the City received
three or four complaints of people living in an RV for six to nine
months out of the year. That is the only issue being addressed this
evening. He also noted a flyer that was circulated to residents on
tonight's meeting which stated the issue was to change the existing
ordinance for storage of RVs, trailers and other outside storage.
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Residents filled the Commission chambers on this issue, with many asking
why they weren't notified about this issue, why it wasn't in the
newsletter, why they had to heard about it from a flyer, and expressing
frustration that they are not told exactly what is taking place. Not
everyone gets the Anoka Union. Chairperson Squires explained there are
only so many methods of notification the City can follow, and it is not
practical to notify everyone individually whenever it looks at changing
an ordinance given the size of the City. Notices are posted at City
Hall and published in the Anoka Union, and it is the responsibility of
those interested to check those sources or call Staff.
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MOTION by Dehn, Seconded by Jovanovich, to open the public hearing.
Motion carried on a 6-Yes, I-Absent (Apel) vote. 7:14 p.m.
Carroll Abbott, 2917 142nd Lane - stated his daughter is coming by on
her way to moving to Florida. She might stay seven days or 21 days. If
the City has the funds to enforce something like this for the entire
City, then it has the funds to fund the neighborhood program which could
deal with this on a block-by-block basis if done correctly. He felt the
Andover newsletter, which goes to most people in the City, should be
notifying residents of meetings such as this of proposed changes so
interested people can respond. He guessed that less than 50 percent of
the Andover residents order the Anoka Union. As a matter of fact, he
didn't see the notice of this issue in there. He was misinformed about
the basis for this meeting just like everyone else in the room.
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Robin Anderson, 16134 Vintaqe NW - doesn't have an RV, but does have two
large boats, a pop-up trailer, and two trucks. She wanted to know if
she will be notified when the storage issue is addressed by the City, or
does she have to call the City Hall once a week to find out. This is an
issue that affects her life and those of everyone in the room. She
expressed frustration that she didn't know about any discussion on this
issue until a neighbor told her last night, and she didn't want the
storage issue addressed without her knowledge. This is a big issue and
she has to be notified if it is to be discussed in the future. She
didn't feel she should have to rely on her neighbors to find out.
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
'I Page 3
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
Chairperson Squires thought that because of the great interest in this
issue, if there ever is consideration of an ordinance change, that other
notification be contemplated. Commissioner Dehn stated the storage
issue was discussed by the Commission at the last meeting; but because
of the large number of people owning these vehicles, because there have
been no complaints on storage, and because the complaints focused on
living in RVs for extended periods of time; and for safety and health
purposes, that is the only issue they felt warranted further discussion.
Mr. Carlberg stated it is very difficult to inform residents of proposed
ordinance changes via the newsletter because it does not corne out often
enough. The process cannot wait based on the newsletter.
Discussion continued, with residents expanding upon their frustration
that they should be notified in the newsletter of such items and not
have to rely on their neighbors and flyers to hear about these things.
The Commission explained the process of responding to complaints and
their role as advisors to the Council, again suggesting there be more
publicity if this issue is ever discussed again.
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Cecil Heidelberoer - has been in the City for 50 years and worked on
many City boards, and there has never been much notification to the
residents. He noted his problems with the City regarding his tire pile
on Bunker Lake Boulevard once people started moving into the City. He
didn't know about this meeting until someone carne to his door to tell
him. He has an RV, stating it will stay in the yard; and if guests corne
and want to stay in his yard, he's going to allow them to do so.
Otherwise the City will have to put him in jail.
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Pamela Forcier. 14249 Vintaoe - stated many people are present because
of the flyer. She stated there is obviously a misconception and asked
for a clarification of the issue this evening. Chairperson Squires
again stated the storage and parking of the vehicles is not on the
agenda tonight, only sleeping in them for extended periods of time.
Richard Pearson. South Coon Creek Drive - has children that corne home
during the summer. He sometimes has seven legitimate licensed cars in
his driveway during the year. If something is ever done about storage,
he hoped that with an issue this important that all the residents of
Andover would be notified before taking action. Chairperson Squires
stated if the provision on outside storage were ever amended, it would
not apply to Mr. Pearson's situation of licensed vehicles in the
driveway.
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Jerome LaFlamme. 14913 Seventh Avenue - has been a resident since 1938,
and the property he lives on goes back to his family name to 1859. He's
watched the continuing government intervention into peoples' lives, to
which he objects somewhat. He strongly suggested on the issue tonight
to look at a minimum time of two weeks for someone visiting to be able
to go out and see the real beauty of the City. Don't restrict it to the
point where no one will be able to utilize those facilities.
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
Page 4
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
Mr. Abbott - stated Commissioner Dehn noted the health and safety factor
of living in an RV. His motor home costs more than his house does. He
can live in his motor home twelve months a year and live just as well as
the Commissioners do in their houses. It's just as safe; it's just as
healthy. He may have to drive out to dump his tanks occasionally, but
it is just as healthy as anything else. A house can be just as unsafe
as someone' s motor home. Mr. Abbott also felt it is unrealistic to
expect all residents to come to the City Hall every week to check the
agenda on the bulletin board. He too has children who visit, and the
City may have to put him in jail too.
William Breeqqemann, 13677 Narcissus is skeptical of people in
political offices. He woke up one morning and found a civil defense
siren in the lot next to his, and he didn't have a say in the matter.
That lot has not sold for years and he is stuck with it. The people
tonight are saying they are going to be stuck with something. He
wondered if there aren' t other City ordinances that cover someone
parking or living on another person's property. Why start another
ordinance? The people are also fearful that this ordinance, which they
are being told is simple and doesn't apply to them, will apply to them
tomorrow because of a different interpretation of the wording.
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Terry Jurva, 2951 141st Lane - has been complaining to the City for five
years about an open storm system 30 feet behind his house which always
has 10 to 12 inches of standing water and 2, 3, to 4 feet of rushing
water when it rains. Where are the City's priorities? The City is
worried about an individual with one RV when there are 15 children
playing in his back yard and the City will not dredge it to make it
drain properly. That's patheticI
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Greqory Schert, 16571 Verdon Street NW - felt this issue weighs heavy on
senior citizens. Due to the bungling on the federal level, their Social
Security system is almost broke. Then these people, who fought World
War II, will be hit with heavy handed regulation and treated as
criminals. He felt this is unfair against certain age groups because it
is mainly the senior citizens that would be coming up here during the
summer months. He was concerned that if government encroaches a little,
where does it stop? If there is to be a time limit, there should be a
cap that would not change unless everyone in the City is notified.
Chairperson Squires stated they are only an advisory group, and the
issue was more expansive when they first looked at it. With the
resolution recommended to the Council, they will encourage Staff to
inform the Council of the great concern over this issue and to expand
the notification process if this is ever to be discussed again. He
suggested perhaps a few designated persons can express these same
concerns to the City Council. Mr. Carlberg also explained the City
Council will be reviewing this item at their June 7 meeting, 8:01 p.m.
The Council receives copies of the Minutes of this meeting, plus some
watch the proceedings on cable TV; so they will be aware of the
residents' concerns.
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
Page 5
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
Odeen Haas, 161st and Xenia - asked about the two ordinance provisions.
Mr. Carlberg reviewed Sections 8.01 and 8.08 of Ordinance 8, both of
which relate to the storage and parking of recreational vehicles.
Mr. Haas - stated the notice in the Anoka Union said "recreational
vehicle limits to be discussed." Nothing else. He said it could have
been elaborated. He asked about the cost of putting out the Andover
News and the ability to put it out once a month. Mr. Carlberg explained
it was a cost factor that was reduced when setting the budget by the
City Council. This is something the residents can speak to the
Councilmembers about. It would be difficult to conduct business on the
basis of the newsletter put out every two months. That is why the Anoka
Union is used.
Mr. Haas - suggested a 14-day restriction on guests living in an RV, but
then have a notification process of a permit issued by the City to allow
them to stay longer. Commissioner Dehn stated she called some cities
who allow this with a special licensed fee if guests stay beyond the
time allowed by ordinance. It also controls the very extended
visitations.
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Mr. Haas - said there are hundreds and thousands of people who only live
in their RVs, so they are completely safe. It is sanitary and clean.
Chairperson Squires stated the question is where do they live in them.
The question they are addressing is should there be restrictions on
people living in neighborhood driveways.
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MarvAnn Delqer, 1528 140th Lane - has a motor home parked in her
driveway. They use it a lot, but no one lives in it; however, they do
have guests. It would be nice if she had guests for one or two weeks, or
30 days or grandchildren coming, that there would be a place for them to
stay. But she would not be comfortable with someone living in her
driveway for six months. She liked the suggestion of a permit of up to
30 days. At that point, either re-apply for the permit or the City can
check why someone is living there for six months.
At this point several residents questioned what is the problem with
living there for six months. One gentleman thought there were other
governmental agencies that would take care of many situations, accusing
the City of not knowing what it is doing from day to day. Why make more
laws in this City to restrict law-abiding citizens because criminals do
not obey? He has a 28-foot boat in his back yard of his 2 1/2 acres.
Does he have to put it in his pond so he doesn't have to park it in his
driveway?
Ms. Delqer - truly loves her camper and does not want any restrictions
\ on the parking. She'd just as soon not have someone live tax free on her
,/ property for six or nine months. She did not see a problem regulating
guests to 30 days and to have to apply for a permit to stay longer than
30 days. Someone in the audience stated she can regulate who is on her
property.
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
Page 6
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
Ken posterick, 3468 South Coon Creek Drive stated there is a
communication gap here. He heard most people say they are looking for
a more effective means of being notified when issues corne up that are of
a concern to them. On the other side he hears the Commission's
persistence that it is already being published in a paper that
apparently very few people get. As representatives of the people, he
stated it behooves the Commission to listen and make people aware of
these issues. Failure to do that is interpreted as governmental
arrogance, and that is what makes people mad, including him.
Commissioner Dehn again stated the Commission will recommend that to the
City Council, who in turn follows through with it.
Bvron Bower, 1701 Ouav Street NW seconded the comments of Mr.
Posterick. He asked how many RVs were problems with people living in
them for six to nine months. Mr. Carlberg stated Staff has received
three or four calls in different situations in the last six months.
Mr. Bower - stated it doesn't seem to be a big problem that someone
can't talk to the owners of the vehicle and property owners. Mr.
Carlberg stated that has been done, but there is no regulation against
it.
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Mr. Bower - didn't think there should be. He moved up here where there
is peace, quiet and space. That's the way he wants to keep it. He does
not get the Anoka Union. Half of the information in the newsletter is
over when he receives it, so what good is it every two months. If there
are other issues that corne up, he felt the residents should be notified
rather than have his neighbor inform him. His child is going to
Australia for two months and the vehicle will sit in his back yard, not
in the front. The last time his son went out of the country and the
vehicle was left in the front yard, it got broken into.
Ron James, 2258 137th Lane asked if there is already a county
ordinance for living in parked vehicles. He was insistent that as a
part of Anoka County, that ordinance should be applied through the City
of Andover. If there is already an ordinance, why create more
bureaucracy by making another one? If the ordinance is written that the
vehicle must be moved after a certain time period, it only has to be
moved one inch, making the ordinance ineffective. Mr. Carlberg stated
this would have to be regulated with a City ordinance.
Mr. Haas - asked when is the ordinance to be discussed by the City
Council. Mr. Carlberg stated a recommendation tonight it will be on the
June 7 City Council agenda.
Mr. Haas - asked the cost of sending out the Andover newsletter. Mr.
'1 Carlberg stated the issues of notification and newsletters, etc. are
,_J issues that should be addressed by the City Council, as there is nothing
the Commission can do about them.
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
; '1 Page 7
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
Mr. Haas - stated a couple years ago he called the City about putting in
stakes so they know where the roadway is when they snow plow. They told
him one foot from the road. Then he got the Andover newsletter after
the snow was already in the ground which said he could pick up wooden
stakes at City Hall to put in the frozen ground. Mr. Carlberg advised
that maintenance, etc., are not a function of the Planning and Zoning
Commission. Those issues can be addressed by Staff or to the City
Council at the Resident Forum portion of their meetings.
Mike Walsh, 2859 142nd Lane - stated it is very important to get the
information to the residents. He'd like to hear about the size of the
vehicles. Mr. Carlberg stated the ordinance, which has been in effect
for years, states vehicles up to 20 feet in length can be stored in rear
yards 10 feet from the side yard line. Anything larger must be moved to
a structure or a driving surface.
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Mr. Walsh - asked several residents the length of their vehicles, many
responding 23 to 31 feet in length. His point was his lot is large
enough to store is 23-foot camper in his back yard, invisible to the
street and to the people around him; but the ordinance is in place that
he is already illegal. In other words, he can have a 50-foot motor home
parked in his driveway, visible to everybody; but he cannot park his 23-
foot camper in the back yard, invisible to everyone. He asked if that
issue will be discussed. Mr. Carlberg stated that is not an issue the
Commission is discussing at this time.
Mr. Walsh - felt that every resident who has a vehicle one inch over 20
feet should also bring that issue up to the City Council, not just one
or two representatives, to get their attention.
Virqil West, 14183 Heather - doesn't have a camper but hopes to get one.
His in-laws both have RVs and do a lot of traveling. When senior
citizens are restricted in their mode of travel and where they can park,
is difficult on them. To sayan RV can only be parked and lived in for
one week on someone's property is an extremely short period of time.
Even 30 days is short. Three months would be the minimum a person can
park and live in an RV on relative's property. He didn't think someone
could park on vacant property; but to have an in-law or relative park on
a person's property for even three months is not unreasonable.
Commissioner Dehn stated everyone here has nice motor homes and
recreational vehicles. Other people are not that way. There is a
question of transients coming into the City and parking with friends in
the City for six months. As farmers they had to build homes for the
migrant workers; they were not allowed to provide trailer homes for
them. There are some communities in other states that do not allow
living in RVs other than in RV parks. She asked the audience to look at
the entire perspective of the issue.
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Mr. Abbott - traveled for two months, 10,000 miles last spring, south
and west; and he stayed in supermarket parking spots, even when they
were not allowed to park within city limits. They received permission
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
) Page 8
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
from the supermarket managers. He read a section of Travel Life
Magazine put out by Good Sam Club, an RVers club, pertaining to the
reversing of laws by several cities which had severely restricted RV
parking. If the Commission decides to recommend a specific time period
for guests to live in an RV with a permit to exceed that time, he asked
if there would be a charge for that permit, another tax to ask for his
daughter to stay another ten days. He, too, encouraged the people to
corne to the Council meetings, not wait until something like this happens
and then get angry. Mr. Abbott then read a story of how plans that are
bad policies on the working level eventually become thought of as good
policies and implemented by the highest executives.
Mr. Heidelberoer - stated the Commissioners call themselves volunteers
but they do get paid for each meeting. He went to council meetings for
31 years, and he never got paid. He donated concrete when building
parks. He stated if he asked for a permit to construct a building in
which to park his motor horne, the City would turn him down. He's also
heard that from many people, because Andover does not want pole barns in
the "Edina of the North."
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Mr. Haas - asked why mes sages can' t be recorded on the phone after
hours, so residents can call to find out what is going on at these
meetings. The Commission stated they will forward that suggestion.
One gentleman stated he asked for a permit about five years ago to be
able to store his boat inside. It was refused. At the time they
limited the building size to 1,000 square feet, which wasn't near large
enough for the items he had for himself and his three sons. He
understood a few years later that size was raised to 1,500 square feet,
but that isn't large enough either. He asked for a 29x44' building,
which wasn't approved. He then asked for a 29x40', which is the minimum
size to put everything he owns inside; and that wasn't approved either.
The mayor at that time, Mayor Windschitl, suggested he call the State
Building Code, which he did. He was told by the State that those zoning
ordinances aren't set in concrete, that it was the appointees to the
Zoning Commission that set up the rules for small buildings. So his
property sits outside deteriorating. Why is there the restriction on
building size? They have the right to put their property inside to
shelter it from the elements, but why is the zoning so restrictive? He
just wanted the permit for that 29x40' building and didn't want to have
to argue with anyone to get it. He asked if anyone was connected with
real estate or development. The Commissioners stated no.
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Chuck Huber, 16910 Tulip Street - asked what the concerns are relating
to health by staying in an RV. His family is welcome to stay in his
home; but if they want their privacy and to stay in their motor home in
his driveway, he didn't think that should be restricted. He also
inquired about the law requiring the Dehns to constructed homes for the
migrant workers. Mr. Carlberg explained that is regulated by the State
Uniform Building Code and the Minnesota Department of Health.
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
Page 9
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
Mr. Huber - still believed government is sticking their nose too far
into the business of the people. He will be at the City in an intense
way of it starts to pull the rights of the people. What business is it
of the Commission or others if he wants to have someone live in a
trailer? There are a lot of state and county ordinances that the City
should not have to be bothered with because ten percent of the people do
not comply. He does not want to be penalized for it; nor should he be.
He felt everyone should be able to talk as adults to resolve the problem
rather than passing more laws. And who enforces it, noting they have a
stop sign on 169th with not enough police to enforce it. Mr. Huber also
related an incident of not being able to get the stop signs put up for
over a year after fighting to get the speed limit reduced. Whose
business is it to say that he cannot have his family stay for one, two
or three months in his driveway with his permission.
Mr. Abbott - thanked Commissioner Dehn for speaking up this evening.
Commissioner Putnam explained this is the public hearing in which the
Commission listens to what the residents have to say. After that the
Commission will discuss it and try to write a resolution that is fair.
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Tom Nielsen, 2211 175th Lane NW - since there are complaints for only
three or four cases of people living in trailers for extended periods of
time, why aren't they approached one at a time to resolve the situation
rather than writing a new ordinance? There may be laws already in the
state or county that would take care of this situation without having to
pass a new ordinance and restrict all residents. Chairperson Squires
stated without any ordinance provision restricting the occupancy of the
RVs to any extent, there is not much the City can do. Mr. Carlberg
stated most communities regulate these by zoning ordinances. He is not
aware of any other agency that would regulate this.
Mr. James - suggested the item be tabled to allow Mr. Carlberg time to
check with the state and county to see if they have something to address
this issue that would supersede anything the Commission might suggest.
Chairperson Squires disagreed, stating county land use ordinances do not
apply within the incorporated limits of the city. Andover has its own
ordinances and regulates the use of land within the City. Mr. James
debated with the Commission and Mr. Carlberg to look at what the county
has established, with Mr. Carlberg again noting this is not a county
issue. He can review any county provision before this goes to the City
Council. The Commission also reviewed some of the requirements of other
communities, with several residents suggesting Andover should stand on
its own and not make regulations just because other communities do.
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Hubert Smith, 133rd and Jav Street - stated in 1958 this issue was
discussed in Coon Rapids and the recommendation was to drop it. Over
the years the issue kept coming up, and now he believed they are not
even allowed to park a motor home on the front part of their property.
Mr. Carlberg read from the Coon Rapids ordinance that there shall be no
more than two major recreational vehicles per residential dwelling unit.
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
') Page 10
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
Ken Kobs, 169th and Tulip - asked about a 21-fOQt boat or trailers over
20 feet which he would like to park in his back yard. He came late and
did not hear the earlier discussion. Chairperson Squires explained no
change is being recommended on the storage of vehicles.
Mr. Kobs - would also like to see the regulations changed to get permits
to build pole barns. He would like to build a pole barn on his 2 1/2
acres to store his camper, bobcat, boat, truck and trailer. Mr. Carlberg
stated these item needs to be addressed at a Staff level.
John? , 161st Avenue - noted there are only three or four complaints.
If the problem is just because they are parked there or its a noise
problem, call the police and have the noise taken care of. There are
people who have their parents corne up to spend the summer. He asked are
they going to be penalized because of three or four people. Andover is
not other cities, so why even look at them? What is the difference if
the motor home is parked there with someone living in it, especially if
there is no noise, or if someone is not living in it? The motor home is
still going to be there. If they are not leaving garbage allover,
leave them alone. Especially if it is a relative. Should the whole
City be changed because of three or four people? That doesn't make any
sense.
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Mike Richards, 14024 Underclift - owns a 34-foot motor home, parked on
the driveway in the front. It is clean and he does not use his
generator. If people are going to live in it, they should be clean and
not be allowed to use the generator, so people don't complain. If it is
kept clean, he saw nothing wrong with it; because it is parked there
whether there is someone living in it or not. If some regulations are
instituted now, he worried about more and more regulations as to not
being able to park the motor homes or trailers, etc. This issue leads
to another issue, and so forth; and soon this will be another
Minneapolis, where he moved from. He moved here to get away from that
and to be able to have some toys.
Randv Mever, 13348 Ouinn - moved to Andover because he can park things
out here. He designed the house such that he could have an RV parked
outside. The City told him that would be okay as long as it is not
junky. If he can't park these things and has to put them in a storage
lot, the lot gets broken into, which causes another stress factor. He
is an RV service manager, and he writes 30 percent of the work orders on
vandalism from storage lots. The homeowner has to keep his personal
possessions at horne, and that is why he purchased his parcel. There are
plenty of campgrounds where people can live in their RVs; however, there
are circumstances of guests. This is a way of life, so why not offer a
permit for so many days. But don't ruin it for the rest of the
residents.
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Mr. Huber - surmised from the testimony that the people are disturbed
that this was brought up over only three complaints. He asked if the
Commission can make a recommendation to the Council not to make new laws
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
over petty discrepancies. For instance, there would have to be 10
percent of the population complaining about something before making an
ordinance regulation rather than just three people. It is absolutely
ridiculous to get everybody wound up over nothing, really, as what
happened this evening.
Mr. Heidelberoer - stated the ordinances of the cities to the south were
reviewed, but he suggested looking at Ramsey, Ham Lake, Centerville and
Oak Grove. He also complained about being put at the end of City
Council meetings so it isn't discussed until very late in the evening.
Could there be a special time when this will be discussed at the Council
meeting? Mr. Carlberg stated the City Council agenda hasn't been set
yet, but he will attempt to make it one of the first items. Also, the
City Council has the authority to move items around to take those with
many interested people in attendance first.
MOTION by Dehn, Seconded by Jovanovich, to close the public hearing.
Motion carried on a 6-Yes, 1-Absent (Apel) vote. 8:50 p.m.
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The Commission discussion was that more information on the regulations
of cities north of Andover is not needed. Andover's situation is not
similar to those cities, plus they felt they have sufficient information
before them, including the testimony given this evening. Commissioner
Dehn stated she spoke with a Councilperson in Ramsey, and they
distinguish between city lots and rural lots; and their regulations are
tougher than Andover's.
Further discussion was all complaints should be addressed, but there was
some concern about complicating peoples' lifestyles with more
regulations. Can these issues be resolved in other ways without making
an ordinance change? Commissioner Peek felt the magnitude of the
problem needs to be considered. In his opinion, the magnitude isn't
great enough to warrant the alternative, that is an elaborate licensing
or permit process. He felt any time period placed on this is totally
arbitrary. At this time he'd prefer to leave the ordinance as is.
Commissioner Dehn agreed. Commissioner Pease also felt that most of the
enforcement would come from complaints, so any arbitrary amount is going
to be a problem. It comes down to people having to be good neighbors,
and people living next door having to be more direct. She did not feel
an ordinance would be enforceable. Commissioner Putnam also did not
want to create any more ordinance regulations unless necessary. He felt
it would be very complicated trying to cover every situation, plus it
would be very difficult to police.
Chairperson Squires was close to thinking something is warranted, but
the way some cities have dealt with it is not flexible enough to deal
with all of the variables that would arise. That may be why some of the
i cities have banned it outright. The wording in the Coon Rapids
,j ordinance is flexible, "occupy the vehicles for occasional living
purposes to accommodate visitors". He didn' t feel something needs to be
adopted now; but if it continues to be an issue, the Commission should
seriously look at it again and perhaps conclude that the Coon Rapids
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
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(Public Hearing: Recreational Vehicles, Continued)
approach allows the flexibility to deal with the clear abuses of the
intent. Without an ordinance, Staff has no authority to deal with the
situation. He also felt the notification issue is bigger than the RV
issue, suggesting the City look at the notification processes generally.
The other Commissioners tended to agree.
MOTION by Dehn, Seconded by Peek, it is apparent, at least with respect
to this issue, notification did not reach the group that it should have
and that the Council may want to look at the whole process and do with
it as they may; and recommend to the City Council to leave the ordinance
as it stands currently unless there are more complaints, and review it
again if there are continuing complaints, with notification of the
residents. Motion carried on a 6-Yes, 1-Absent (Apel) vote. 9:07 p.m.
The Commission also recommended to those who are interested in seeing a
change to the length of the vehicles which can be stored in the back
yard that they raise that issue with the City Council at their May 17
meeting.
The Commission recessed at this time, 9:07; reconvened at 9:14 p.m.
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VARIANCE - 13735 ROUND LAKE BOULEVARD NW, McDONALD'S CORPORATION
,)
Mr. Carlberg reviewed the request of McDonald's Corporation for a
variance to the parking setback requirement at 13731 Round Lake
Boulevard. Ordinance No.8, Section 8.08(H)(5) requires parking
facilities to be set back 20 feet if abutting an existing right-of-way.
A 10-foot setback is required for side and rear-yard off-street parking
facilities. The City Council gave preliminary approval to the variance.
The variances would be from the 20-foot green space requirement on Round
Lake and Bunker Lake Boulevards, and a 10-foot variance to the green
space requirement for the side and year interior parking areas. The
reason for the 20-foot variance is because the county acquired
additional right of way when upgrading Round Lake and Bunker Lake
Boulevards, creating a hardship. The new property line is the existing
curb line of the shopping center. There is a 21-foot green space in the
boulevards, plus McDonald's is providing green space around the building
to make it more aesthetically pleasing. Because of the county's land
acquisition, the rest of the shopping center becomes nonconforming,
though they could apply for a variance. There will be a joint
facilities parking agreement between McDonald's and the shopping center,
which will require a variance to the 10-foot side and rear yard off-
street parking facilities. Without the variances, 30 to 32 parking
stalls would have to be eliminated, which would create serious parking
problems.
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Commissioner Jovanovich asked if there is a way the drive-thru window
could be placed on the opposite side, away from the parking.
Commissioner Putnam was curious what was going to be planted in the
landscaped area.
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
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Page 13
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(Variance: McDonald's Corporation, Continued)
Gary Meyer, McDonald's Corporation - explained they are proposing the
whole front and side be landscaped with shrubs, mulch, etc. Drive-thrus
are always on the lefthand side, because that is the only way it works.
This site did not work to move the building over to provide all parking
to the east. The parking on the same side of the drive-thru does not
generate problems with either vehicle or pedestrian traffic. The drive-
thru traffic is metered with everyone stopping, and it presents less of
a problem than most retail developments. There is 21 feet of green
space on the right of way on Round Lake and Bunker Lake Blvds., and they
are trying to provide the interior green space to soften the project.
McDonald's was not aware of the need for a variance until the survey was
done two weeks ago. Mr. Carlberg stated the grading and landscaping plan
will be reviewed as a part of the commercial site plan review.
MOTION by Dehn, Seconded by Peek, to recommend forwarding the Resolution
as presented in our packet to the City Council for approval. Add a
WHEREAS, a hardship was created by the right-of-way acquisition by the
county. Add another WHEREAS, a joint parking facilities agreement will
be required, addressing the variance from the 10-foot green space for
the side and rear yard interior parking. Motion carried on a 6-Yes, 1-
Absent (Apel) vote. This will be forwarded to the May 17, 1994, City
Council meeting.
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SKETCH PLAN - SECTION 12, TOWNSHIP 32, RANGE 24 - STEVE SCHMITT AND MAL
ALLEN
Mr. Carlberg reviewed the sketch plan. Sixteen lots of a minimum of 2
1/2 acres are being proposed. The Andover Review Committee noted all
lots must face City streets, that the entrances to Seventh Ave. must be
at intervals of 660 feet, recommended that the westerly cul-de-sac be
extended north to 173rd Ave., and recommended that the proposed north-
south street be shortened to a cul-de-sac from the south due to the
wetlands that may exist along 173rd Lane.
The Commission recommended consideration be given on the alignment of
173rd in this plat with the existing 173rd east of Seventh Avenue. A
question was raised on the effect of the development to the south by
externalizing the street. Mr. Carlberg noted there are some wetlands to
the south, but the development of adjacent properties to their highest
and best use should also be considered when reviewing the plat. As
proposed, lots to the south adjacent to the road could be created.
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Mal Allen, Developer - showed a map outlining preliminary wetland
which is the reason for the jogs of 173rd. Mr. Carlberg again
the intervals between streets accessing Seventh Avenue needs
addressed. Commissioner Dehn was concerned with having to
outlots by adjusting the road alignment.
areas, .
stated
to be
create
Given no further comments, Mr. Carlberg noted the item will be reviewed
by the City Council at their May 17 meeting.
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
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SKETCH PLAN - SECTION 32, DOWNTOWN CENTER SECOND ADDITION - ANDOVER
LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
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Mr. Carlberg reviewed the proposed sketch plan of Andover Limited
Partnership to split off a 165x225' corner on which McDonald's will be
located. Agreements for parking will be in conjunction with this
proposal. Originally McDonald's had looked to leasing that corner but
was not comfortable with all of the agreements.
The Commission asked about the front lot line. Mr. Carlberg stated by
definition, the front of the lot would be Bunker Lake Boulevard. The
minimum requirements are met, but a variance may be needed to what is
considered the front lot line. Commissioner Peek suggested the Building
Official review the location to the property to see if it has any impact
on the shopping center, as typically buildings are constructed with the
level of fire resistance based on the proximity to the property. He
also noted the parcel fronts on right of ways, but there is no direct
access to existing right of way. Is there ample distance from the
corners to provide an access if it is necessary in the future? Mr.
Carlberg stated the county would look at approving further driveway
access to those Boulevards. He felt the joint parking facilities
agreement will have to cover that access, which in turn will have to be
reviewed by the City. Chairperson Squires advised that provision must
be for an extended period of time so some future purchaser is not able
to negate the agreement and leave the parcel landlocked.
Marnel Wilber, 3510 136th Lane NW - would like to see the Council have
the businesses put up some type of berm to catch the liter that blows
from the parking lot and from those businesses into her and her
neighbors' yards. They get tired of picking up the liter. Even little
bushes would catch the liter so they could clean it up themselves. Mr.
Carlberg stated they will work with McDonald's on that concern. This
will be reviewed by the City Council at their May 17 meeting.
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DISCUSSION - THERAPEUTIC HESS
Mr. Carlberg stated he ~eived several calls on people wanting to
conduct therapeutic ~ as a home occupation in residential
districts. His research has found that this item really is not
addressed by other cities or the League of Minnesota Cities. One of the
concerns is there is no state regulation or licensing of that practice.
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Cara Geist 13464 Jon uil Street NW - stated 19 states have regulations
and licensing of therapeutic ~She submitted a New Client Packet
of policies and procedures she would adhere to. Therapeutic ~8BB~tr is
an emerging profession and has been an adjunct to medical therapy for
many years. Unfortunately they constantly buck the ~~~itution
association. She is an RN and a student for therapeutic~ c. There
are schools in the area; and she attends the Northern Li~ts, which is
the only one that is accredited by the American M'8oo5~e.;. Therapy
Association, their governing board. It is ~600-hour program, teaching
different modalities of therapeutic ~~~c. She anticipated clients
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Regular Andover Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
Minutes - May 10, 1994
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(D~scuss~on - T erapeut~c f103S.::J. , Cont~nued)
coming for relaxation, for pain control, and for sports work. There is
a movement to get state accreditation and licensing in Minnesota, but
that is not expected for another two to three years. Until then, people
practicing must go before local Boards and help them get ordinances
written.
Ms. Geist knew of a similar home occupation being conducted in Coon
Rapids. She offered to provide the information she has on the therapy
and what other cities allow. Mr. Carlberg felt if it is going to be
allowed as a home occupation, it should be looked in terms of a Special
Use Permit similar to beauty salons and barber shops. The difference is
there are sta~~5~gensing for those, where many people are leery of
therapeutic 'HlOGB~e because of the lack of state licensing. The
ordinance does not address chiropractic activities as a home occupation.
Ms. Geist anticipated having a portable table, a bathroom and changing
facilities, file cabinet, desk table, and CD player. There would be no
items for sale. They work in adjunct with the doctors, chiropractors
and physical therapists, often getting referrals from them. Chairperson
Squires noted Blaine requires certification be submitted as to hours ~~
training anti membership in state or national therapeutic ~~~
organizations. He saw this as an emerging field that is often tied to
beauty salons, which is already allowed as home occupations in Andover.
He felt it is different than a doctor, chiropractor or dentist office.
)
Commissioner Dehn preferred to have state licensing and regulations, but
she wouldn't discount it at this time if there is sufficient evidence of
accreditation and hours of education. She felt it was closer to a beauty
salon situation than to a doctor or dentist office. Commissioner Peek
stated there has been a hesitancy in the past to expand the health and
beauty home occupation, as tanning has not been allowed. Right now he
didn't sense that this is an appropriate home occupation. Commissioner
Jovanovich agreed, preferring to see them licensed by the state.
Ms. Geist argued there is a place for this; it is a very effective
therapy modality. It would be very quiet; it would not disturb anyone.
She would do no outside advertising. She felt it can be an asset to the
community and did not feel it should be excluded because the laws are
behind the times. She offered to give examples of communities where it
is allowed. Commissioner Putnam was thinking it is more of a commercial
venture than a home occupation. On the other hand, he felt it would be
more of a benefit to do it in a more comfortable setting in someone's
home. Commissioner Dehn felt it should be a home occupation, that it
would be more private and more comfortable.
The Commission felt that examples of what other communities do would be
helpful and that further consideration needs to be given to the entire
, issue of home occupations. Mr. Carlberg stated there seems to be a lack
) of information to proceed at this time. He will review the information
to be provided by Ms. Geist and do further research and bring it back to
the Commission if it warrants. He will be asking for Council direction
on the entire home occupation ordinance.
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MOTION by Dehn, Seconded by Jovanovich, to adjourn. Motion carried on
a 6-Yes, 1-Absent (Apel) vote.
The meeting adjourned at 10:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
~~e~J-
Recording Secretary
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