HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 11-15-1999 SpecialAdopted Minutes
Special Council Meeting
November 15, 1999
A Special Meeting of the Plymouth City Council was called to order by Mayor Tierney at 7:00
p.m. in the Council Chambers of the City Center, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., on November 15, 1999.
The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the Land Use Plan for 2020 Urban Expansion Area
for Northwest Plymouth.
COUNCIL PRESENT: Mayor Tierney, Councilmembers Brown, Black, Harstad, Johnson,
Bildsoe, and Slavik.
ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Johnson, Assistant City Manager Ahrens, Public Works
Director Moore, Community Development Director Hurlburt, Parks and Recreation Director
Blank, Public Safety Director Gerdes, and City Clerk Paulson.
Land Use Plan for 2020 Urban Expansion Area — Plymouth Comprehensive Plan Update
Community Development Director Hurlburt explained the background of the Comprehensive
Planning process. All metropolitan cities are in the process of updating their Comprehensive
Plans, and updates are required every 10 years. The City's plan is projected to be completed by
spring 2000. The Land Use Plan determines the type of development allowed and the density
number of units per acre) of residential development. After the final draft of the plan is
prepared, there would be a public hearing conducted by the City Council as well as a review by
the Metropolitan Council.
She illustrated the current Land Use Guide Plan and the area outside the urban service area in the
northwest part of Plymouth. She stated on October 21, 1998 the Council adopted the partial
urban expansion option for planning the northwest portion of the City. This past spring and
summer there were 14 study sessions conducted to discuss all components of the Land Use Plan
for the entire City. On July 27, 1999 the Council and Planning Commission conducted a joint
meeting and approval was given for the draft version of the 2020 urban expansion area (sewer
staging and land use plans). During the July 27, 1999 meeting, some Council and Commission
members expressed concern that the Land Use Plan, particularly the residential densities, had not
been thoroughly discussed. At the City Council meeting on August 3, 1999, the Council voted to
direct staff to provide options for higher densities for the Land Use Plan in the 2020 urban
expansion area. Staff was also requested to identify locations where density could be increased
without major impacts on infrastructure (sewers, road, etc.). Several options were prepared and
discussed at the August 31, 1999 joint Council/Planning Commission meeting. At that meeting,
the Council directed that public input be sought on an alternative Land Use Plan which would
increase allowable residential density in a portion of the proposed 2020 urban expansion area.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 2 of 15
She encouraged the Council to approve this evening a Land Use Plan for Northwest Plymouth as
other components of the Comprehensive Plan are dependent on this section. She stressed that the
Council's decision tonight would not be a final decision but only direction to the consultant and
staff to prepare the final draft of the Comprehensive Plan. She then explained the definitions of
terms contained in the plan.
A question was raised as to what kind of development is occurring north of the City limits.
Community Development Director Hurlburt illustrated to the Council a portion of the adopted
Maple Grove's Land Use Plan that indicates a mix of low -medium density residential and mixed
medium density residential. She stated these areas are very consistent with the City of
Plymouth's LA -1.
She explained the City is considering increasing densities as this would encourage life cycle
housing opportunities, affordability of homes, transit feasibility, and efficient use of land and
infrastructure.
She stated some concerns that could be associated with increasing densities are an increase in
traffic, impact on infrastructure and services (proposed plans will not provide problems to the
City services), compatibility with existing development, and fears of concentrating low-cost
housing.
She briefly discussed a commercial area proposed near the intersection of Vicksburg Lane and
County Road 47. If there were no commercial development in this area, residents would need to
travel two to three miles for access to basic services. She stated the development standards are
established by the zoning ordinance, and the commercial uses are compatible with the residential
uses.
She stated this evening the Council could take action on one of the following options:
1. Adopt the proposed Urban Expansion Area which was adopted by the Planning Commission.
2. Reaffirm the plan adopted on July 27, 1999.
3. Adopt an alternative plan dated November 1999 that was proposed by Councilmembers
Johnson and Brown.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, and seconded by Councilmember Slavik to
reaffirm the July 27, 1999 plan adopted by the City Council.
Councilmember Bildsoe stated the Council approved a partial development for this area. He
stated full, partial, or no development were the options presented to the Council at the October
21, 1998 meeting. He stated he personally doesn't favor higher densities in that area, and he
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 3 of 15
originally preferred no development. He supports lower densities and essentially the framework
that was approved on October 21, 1998.
Councilmember Harstad stated in 1995, the City agreed to participate in the Livable
Communities Act, and this is a plan that works with adjacent cities in creating opportunities for
affordable housing. He stated currently the City is not providing its share of higher density
developments. He stated some senior citizens have indicated to the Council that if there weren't
more reasonable priced housing available, they would be forced to relocate elsewhere. He
stressed that higher density levels do not always guarantee affordable housing. He explained
staff is proposing to increase the densities from two to three homes per acre.
Councilmember Harstad questioned the traffic capacity of County Road 47, and if this roadway
could accommodate the traffic for the next 10 to 20 years. Community Development Director
Hurlburt stated studies were completed on the plan adopted by the Council on July 27, 1999.
She stated the studies indicate that even if there were lower densities, there would be a
substantial increase in traffic. She stressed that this is a County road that serves a much greater
area than just Plymouth, and the road would probably need to be reconstructed as a four -lane
roadway sometime in the future. She stated currently reconstruction of this roadway is not in the
County's five-year plan, but no matter what density the Council selects, the road would still be
utilized with great demands.
She commented that it's very likely that this area would be developed before the road is
widened. Public Works Director Moore added in the meantime, there would probably be some
minor improvements to the roadway such as by-pass lanes and turn lanes.
Councilmember Harstad asked if the city of Maple Grove has adopted their Comprehensive Plan.
Community Development Director Hurlburt replied yes.
Mayor Tierney stated she has not been as supportive of the July 27, 1999 plan as it relates to the
proposed commercial area being located adjacent to a LA -1 area.
Councilmember Black stated that she would not be supporting the above motion.
Councilmember Johnson stated since there are citizens present that would like to address the
Council, she requested the Council hear the testimony first before taking complete action.
Councilmember Slavik stated she agrees with Councilmember Johnson.
Mayor Tierney stated public comment would be limited to three minutes.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 4 of 15
Matthew Kramer, 13710 59th Place North, resident of Lake Camelot Estates, stated the Council
has already approved the July 27, 1999 Land Use Plan, and this is a plan that would appeal to
everyone. This plan provides not only single family homes, but LA -3 and LA -4 areas south of
the golf course. Over 100 residents of Lake Camelot Estates have a signed a petition supporting
the July 27, 1999 plan. He stated the new Fernbrook/Cheshire Lane would be constructed to
manage the LA -3 and LA -4 traffic flow. He stressed that County Road 47 wouldn't have the
capacity for the other plans, and there would be significant safety issues as well.
Molly Cavin, 2855 Zanzibar Lane, stated she and her husband are facing an "empty nest
syndrome." She stated they have friends who have purchased homes in the Parkers Lake area,
and they would like the opportunity to purchase this same type of housing. She urged the
Council to support the higher density areas.
Pat Murray, 504 Kingsview Lane, urged the Council to support the Planning Commission's
recommendation which increases the densities.
Jim Hass, 14230 60th
Place North, urged the Council to support the July 27, 1999 plan. He
explained his home is located in Lake Camelot Estates, and he doesn't want his house backing
into a townhouse. He stated he believes higher density would decrease his property values, and
he is also concerned about the traffic.
Ken Wendinger, 5465 Orleans Lane, Apt. 1, stated 10 years ago he purchased a townhouse at
65,000. Three years ago, lots were purchased at $90,000, and $250,000 homes were
constructed on those lots. He stated individuals who make $16 an hour can't afford to purchase a
home for more than $95,000. They are the people assisting the professions (daycares, store
clerks). Affordable housing and upscale single-family homes have proved that they can be good
neighbors. He stressed that the Council must base their decision on what is currently occurring
in the community. He stated if the City doesn't assist in absorbing the increase in the
metropolitan population, people would construct homes west of the City, which would create
congestion on the City's roads.
Pat M. Mahoney, 15392
62nd
Avenue, Maple Grove, stated he is representing the Rosemary
Woods Homeowners north of this area. He stated in terms of the July 27, 1999 proposal, the
homeowners support the proposal. However, there are some concerns of the commercial use at
Vicksburg Lane and County Road 47.
Hayden L. Wands, 15255 62"d Avenue North, Maple Grove, stated he agrees with Mr. Mahoney.
His property is located in Maple Grove and faces the proposed LA -4 area included on the
November 1999 map. Currently this area is beautiful with a lake, but he realizes that it would
eventually be developed. He stated he relocated here from Kansas City, and the suburbs in that
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 5 of 15
area communicate with each other. Plymouth's development plan may not be compatible with
Maple Grove's development plan.
Kerry Juntti, 15424
62nd Avenue North, Maple Grove, stated prior to living at this address he
resided off Medina Road and County Road 101. He felt there was little chance of a LA -1 area
being adjacent to a LA -4 area. However, that is now being proposed. He requested an easier
transition.
Tom Cooley, 15081 62nd Avenue North, Maple Grove, stated he resides in High Point Hills north
of the proposed development plan. He is representing the homeowners, and they support the
July 27, 1999 plan.
Sherri Martin -Swagger, 14860 County Road 47, stated she is very opposed to the Council
deviating from the July plan. She stated there would be an enormous change if there were higher
densities. She voiced her opposition to the proposed commercial development at County Road
47 and Vicksburg Lane. Currently there are many times she can't exit her driveway onto County
Road 47 due to the amount of traffic, and this development would only contribute to a problem
that already exists.
Arlen Stensby, 14840 County Road 47, presented an overhead which was the resolution adopted
by the Council on October 21, 1998. He stated now the Planning Commission is recommending
a 338% increase in density. He also illustrated a picture of the Thompson property north of
County Road 47 that is proposed to be a LA -4 area. He stressed that the October 21, 1998
proposal is inconsistent with what was approved previously by the City Council. It also shows a
lack of concern for the environment, has no financial justification, and would destroy the
character of Northwest Plymouth forever. He stated the July 27, 1999 plan is consistent with the
survey results, and it allows residents who have purchased their homes 15-20 years ago to
continue to live there.
Irene Durant, 10124 Southshore Drive, urged the Council to support affordable housing.
Gretchen Schatzke, 3175 Walnut Grove Lane, stated she is a 24 -year resident of the City, and
she requested the Council to support the expanded Land Use Plan as it would provide more area
for diversified housing for elderly, single invididuals, and families.
Steven Harvey, 6030 Cheshire Lane North, urged the Council to support the July 27, 1999 Land
Use Plan. The affect to the existing neighborhoods would be great if the densities are increased.
Marc Anderson, of Lundgren Brothers, stated they have optioned a number of parcels in
Northwest Plymouth, and they feel the LA -3 and LA -4 areas are too dense for this area. They
support the LA -1 and LA -2 designations. He stated they feel there is a problem in the
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 6 of 15
requirement that the densities have a minimum. At this point, they would not want to be
restricted to a minimum but be able to work with the land. Lastly, they feel the higher densities
do not provide enough flexibility for this area.
Tom Cloutier, 13745 61St Avenue North, stated he is a resident of Lake Camelot Estates, and he
supports the July 27, 1999 Land Use Plan. He stated currently in the City, LA -1 and LA -2 areas
are approximately 70% of the housing stock. The October 21, 1998 plan has only 44% of the
housing stock LA -1 and LA -2. He requested that their surrounding areas be designated as LA -1
and LA -2 areas which is consistent with the remainder of the City. He stated typically, LA -1 and
LA -2 areas are owner occupied while LA -3 and LA -4 areas are not owner occupied. He stated
there are advantages when the properties are owner occupied as the owners are stable and are
long-term residents. He cautioned the Council in not having too much affordable housing and
life cycle housing as it will affect the real estate values.
Yele Akinsanyo, 13805 60th Avenue North, stated he just relocated to the City a year ago from
Texas. He stated if he would've known that the City was proposing to increase the densities, he
wouldn't have purchased his home in this area. He suggested that before the densities are
increased, the City should have the infrastructure in place first. In addition, the City has not
completed a transportation impact analysis or an environmental impact statement. He suggested
the Council complete a comprehensive capital improvement plan, transportation plan, and
environmental impact statement before the density levels are increased.
Linda Seaton, 14215 44th Place North, urged the Council to support the proposal approved by the
Planning Commission.
LaDonna Hoy, 146 Ridgeview Drive, stated she is Director of Interfaith Outreach and
Community Partners, and 60% of their users are from Plymouth. She stated every City resident
seeks affordable housing at whatever life cycle. She stressed the need for the Council to address
all types of housing, and she requested the Council to support the proposal approved by the
Planning Commission.
Jill Kohler, 16805 22nd Avenue North, stated she lives within one mile of the Parkers Lake area,
and the value of her home has not decreased because of higher density developments adjacent to
her property. She requested the Council approve the Planning Commission's proposal.
Rhonda Farran, 13025 34th
Avenue North, urged the Council to support the Planning
Commission's recommendation. She stated it is the Council's responsibility to consider the
entire population of City not just a small interest group of City. She stated the Parker's Lake
area is a good place to live. She stated she understands the concerns of the residents of the
northwest Plymouth, but they must have a broader perspective.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 7 of 15
Linda Harvey, 6030 Cheshire Lane North, stated their area, Lake Camelot Estates, would
definitely be affected with higher densities. She stated there would be traffic congestion on
County Road 47, and she has contacted the County, and they assured her that County Road 47
isn't proposed to be reconstructed as a four -lane roadway. She urged the Council to support the
July 27, 1999 plan.
Paul Wardell, 16395 County Road 47, stated there are individuals who want more diversity and
individuals who want open spaces. He illustrated photographs of the Parkers Lake area, and he
finds this type of housing configuration somewhat troublesome as there are large homes on very
small lots. He then illustrated photographs of an apartment complex in Eagan where the open
spaces were maintained in and around the apartment complex. He stated eventually the City
would have to absorb more people, but the question is how this can be achieved while still
preserving open spaces. He suggested that developments be created that would be appropriate
for all ages while still maintaining, park, trail, and open space areas.
Steve Thompson, 3015 Xanthus Lane North, requested the Council adopt the recommendation
from the Planning Commission. He stated the Council must consider the needs of people who
would like to locate in the City that don't have the same means that the majority of the residents
have. He stated those individuals who make $10 to $16 per hour should have the opportunity to
purchase housing in the City. He stated the plan approved by the Planning Commission is a
good effort in addressing all needs of the population.
Van Mancuso, 13935 60th Avenue North, stated this is definitely an issue of density, and he truly
believes the majority of the citizens favor lower densities.
Eayleen Toohey, 15515 6`h Avenue, stated she has lived in the City for 42 years. She volunteers
at Home Free and is a driver for Interfaith Outreach. She stated people want to know how and
where they can live in the City. Therefore, she urged the Council to support higher densities.
Ron Seeman, 6216 Upland Lane North, Maple Grove, stated he is President of Rosemary
Homeowners Association, and these homes are north of the County Road 47 and Vicksburg Lane
area. They support the July 27, 1999 plan. However, they are concerned about the traffic in the
area and the height of berm walls.
Donald Peterson, 1761 Kirkwood Lane, stated reasonable priced housing would be desirable for
people who want to locate in the City. He stated he doesn't believe that the minimum density
level is desirable. He encouraged the Council to consider non -restricted items i.e. staging of fees
and charges (park dedication). Restrictions would increase the price of land that increases the
price of housing four to five percent.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 8 of 15
Mike Villafana, 14220 60th Place North, stated based on the recent citizen survey there were
about 40% of the respondents that didn't favor higher density housing. The County has also
indicated that the Interstate bridge and County Road 47 are too narrow to accommodate a larger
underpass. He requested the Council support the July 27, 1999 plan. In conclusion, he stated
there are over 200 signatures from Lake Camelot Estates that support the July plan.
Kay Sverkerson, 35 Nathan Lane North, Apt. 123, requested the Council to approve higher
densities. She explained she currently resides adjacent to a very large apartment complex, and
there are no repercussions from that.
Vivian Starr, 6060 Annapolis Lane North, illustrated to the Council the Lake Camelot Estates
area. She stated there are 186 homes in Lake Camelot Estates, and there are three homes per
acre. The majority of the homes are 15 feet apart. She illustrated the amount of parkland in their
area that they pay to maintain. She stated this is a well planned development. She reminded the
Council there is a substantial amount of lower cost housing near their development by the
interstate. She questioned the placement of higher density units further away from the prime
transportation areas.
Vernon Peterson, 17425 County Road 47, stated he supports developing the entire Northwest
Plymouth area. He also requested the Council's support of higher densities.
Debbie Kramer, 13710 59th Place North, explained the July 27, 1999 plan does address the major
issues today which includes life cycle housing. She stated 980 units could be located in the LA -3
area, and in the LA -4 area, there would be 522 units. She realizes the City is in need of the life
cycle housing, and this plan provides for that goal. Lastly, she stated there would be a road
constructed (Fernbrook/Cheshire alignment) to service the LA -3 and LA -4 areas. Therefore, she
urged the Council to support the July 27, 1999 plan.
Judy Moore, 6080 Cheshire Lane, stated she supports the July 27, 1999 proposal. She requested
the Council to use discretion in approving the current proposal and possibly deleting the
commercial development.
Sally Hesse, 14005 61 st Avenue North, stated she is a resident of Lake Camelot Estates, and
there is a mixed blend of housing. She stated the July 27, 1999 plan does have LA -3 and LA -4
areas incorporated into it.
After the public testimony, the Council took a short recess at 9:20 p.m.
Mayor Tierney reconvened the meeting at 9:35 p.m.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 9 of 15
Motion was made by Councilmember Brown, and seconded by Councilmember Black to offer a
substitute motion which is to adopt what is now referred to as the November 4, 1999 plan/option.
Councilmember Brown stated he and Councilmember Johnson met with residents of Lake
Camelot Estates, and they view this plan as a reasonable compromise. The plan positions a
parcel of LA -1 immediately adjacent to Lake Camelot Estates, and it transitions parcels from
LA -2, LA -3, and LA -4 areas and then to the commercial area. It also changes the area
immediately beneath the commercial area to LA -2. The overall effect is that there would be 2.6
units per acre. This seems like a fair compromise both for the residents and for the broader
needs of the City in terms of providing an array of mixed housing in this area.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, and seconded by Councilmember Harstad to amend
the substitute motion to change the LA -2 area south of County Road 47 on Vicksburg Lane to
LA -4, LA -3, and LA -2 areas (in that order heading south) as was indicated on a map that she
illustrated.
Councilmember Black stressed that this is at least a 100 -year decision if not a 200 -year decision,
and there would be many changes that would occur during this time period. She stated there
would be many changes in how transportation is addressed. She briefly discussed a presentation
that she recently attended on environmental benefits of smart growth. She stated smart growth is
defined as:
1. Preserving regional character, shapes growth.
2. Growth is concentrated near existing roads, sewers, and other infrastructure.
3. On average, 5.5 units per acre for new housing.
4. More opportunities to use public transit systems.
She stated the goal of smart growth is to reduce the environmental impact to air quality and
greenhouse gas emissions, water and water supply, and green infrastructure. She also mentioned
the pollution caused by one vehicle.
She stated the LA -1 density would move the development north and west of Plymouth.
Therefore, the City would be experiencing air pollution and congestion. She stressed the need to
look towards the future and what the impact of the decisions made today would have on the
future generations.
Councilmember Harstad stated since the Council is not establishing minimum densities, the plan
provides for more compromise, clustering, etc. The planning that would occur would be based
on the plans that are presented to the City. He stated this a Comprehensive Guide Plan that
provides direction.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 10 of 15
Community Development Director Hurlburt suggested the Council establish minimum densities
in order to achieve the densities that the plan indicates. She stated it has been the history that
land planned to accommodate more growth has been underdeveloped in relation to the
infrastructure that is in place. She cautioned the Council that there is a legal requirement that the
controls be consistent with the land use plan. For example, the City designates an area as LA -4
but then it is developed as a LA -1 area.
Councilmember Slavik stated she would not support Councilmember Black's amendment as it is
not a good fit. She stated unfortunately the meeting tonight turned into an affordable housing
debate when the Council is considering densities. She stated she is not opposed to affordable
housing, but the City doesn't have funds currently in place for that type of housing. She stated
she supports the July 27, 1999 plan.
Councilmember Black stated some of the Councilmembers weren't in office when the planning
for Northwest Plymouth was originally discussed. The earlier debate exclusively addressed if
the City was going to develop part, all, or none of Northwest Plymouth. She doesn't feel the
July 27, 1999 plan is more thought out and/or discussed than any other plans that have been
considered by the Council.
Councilmember Bildsoe stated he has a copy of the October 21, 1998 plan. He doesn't see
anything on the plan that indicates a concept plan, and the legend states it is a partial growth
option of 2020. This is the plan on which his decision is based on. It was not his interpretation
that this was a concept plan, but a plan on which the Council was going to adhere to.
Councilmember Johnson stated she appreciates Councilmember Black's offer to increase the
densities on Vicksburg, however, this may go too far. If a developer presented an alternative
plan that was a good fit, the Council could certainly consider that. She doesn't mind seeing LA -
1 areas being changed to LA -2. LA -2 areas have worked very well within the City.
Motion was made by Councilmember Harstad, and seconded by Councilmember Black to call
the question. With all members voting in favor but Johnson, the motion carried.
The Council voted on the amendment. With all members voting against the motion but Black
and Harstad, the motion failed.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, and seconded by Councilmember Brown to
amend the substitute motion to change the LA -4 area, east of the proposed commercial area on
County Road 47, to LA -3.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15,1999
Page 11 of 15
Councilmember Johnson stated the LA -3 would address the life cycle housing and provide a
good transition to the area and the Maple Grove area. She stated if there were plans for housing
that would fit LA -4, she would certainly consider the possibility.
Councilmember Bildsoe commented this proposed amendment does meet the guidelines that the
Council established on October 21, 1998.
Councilmember Johnson stated in addition, this plan would keep the commercial development in
place which she hopes would only be intended for the neighborhood. She would not support a
commercial development that would be similar to the commercial developments on Highway 55.
Councilmember Brown commented the Council is really starting to dilute the Council's intent of
adding density. Therefore, he would be voting against this amendment.
Councilmember Black stated she would also be voting against the amendment. If this plan
would be approved as is now being presented, Northwest Plymouth would be developed at a
growth density of 2.6 units per acre which is well below the remainder of Plymouth. She stated
if the Council continues to decrease the density levels, she may make a motion to withdraw from
the Livable Communities Act if the City can't satisfy the requirement.
Councilmember Harstad stated he also wouldn't support this amendment. He stated the Council
is trying to develop neighborhoods, and with a LA -4 area adjacent to the commercial area, it
would give the opportunity for residents to walk and/or drive their bicycles to the commercial
area. This would foster a good sense of neighborhood. He stated there is the possibility of
clustering homes with the apartment look and feel, but with more green space than one could
develop with lower density. Higher density provides more options and these developments could
be screened.
Councilmember Johnson stated the Council must realize there are golf courses in this area, and
some day if there is sewer available, they may sell the property for the development of LA -1 and
LA -2 areas. She also believes that a hobby farm could still be a part of the life cycle housing.
Lastly, she stated that developers may not prefer this guide, but the Council could consider
alternative plans.
Mayor Tierney stated she supports the motion. She stated there could be some very nice
transitional housing from the LA -3 areas to the LA -2 areas. This type of development could
allow for some more creativity.
Councilmember Black stated this amendment could severely decrease the opportunities for
affordable housing. In considering the amendment, there would be only one area in Northwest
Plymouth that could provide any opportunity for affordable housing.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 12 of 15
Councilmember Bildsoe stated regarding affordable housing, the price per acre in this part of the
City is $50,000 to $100,000 per acre. He stated that he would have some problems in supporting
minimum densities; however, he needs to discuss this with staff to determine what the
ramifications would be.
He encouraged the Council to consider affordable housing redevelopments in other parts of the
City where there is currently the infrastructure to accommodate those developments as the
infrastructure is not in place in Northwest Plymouth.
Councilmember Johnson stated some of the problems that the Council is currently addressing
were self-created. She stated the decision to not develop west of Vicksburg had an impact on the
prices east of Vicksburg. She stated when there is a shortage of land with sewer, the land values
tend to increase.
Councilmember Brown stated Councilmember Bildsoe is correct in the affordability issues.
However, affordable housing does assist with transportation efficiencies, life cycle housing, and
preservation of green spaces.
Councilmember Black stated there are two areas in her Ward that are being considered for
affordable housing, and she would support those efforts. In addition, there is a HRA project
being discussed for her ward. However, she doesn't think any of these projects should preclude
the opportunity for affordable housing in Northwest Plymouth.
Councilmember Harstad stated the Council is considering the opportunities that could exist for
this undeveloped area of the City without redeveloping the area (tearing down and rebuilding).
He agreed with Councilmember Black in that this decision is for 100 years into the future.
Councilmember Johnson stated there would always be redevelopment opportunities throughout
the City. In addition, developers would request amendments to the City's Land Use Plan, and
the Council could review those developments at that time. She stated the proposed LA -3 area
adjacent to the commercial property provides affordability.
Motion was made by Councilmember Brown, and seconded by Councilmember Black to call the
uestion. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
The Council voted on the amendment. With all members voting against the motion but Johnson,
Bildsoe, and Tierney, the motion failed.
Councilmember Bildsoe commented that he was going to make a motion to change the area
adjacent to the commercial area to LA -2, but there are not enough votes to support that. He
stated he would not support a LA4 area that isn't consistent with the July 27, 1999 plan.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 13 of 15
Mayor Tierney stressed this is only a guide, and it would be voted on a later date as a component
of the final draft of the Comprehensive Plan. As the developers present their plans to the City,
their proposals may necessitate some changes. However, she doesn't feel the Council should be
deviating from the integrity of the July plan.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, and seconded by Councilmember Harstad to amend
the substitute motion to change the LA -4 area adjacent to the commercial area to LA -3, and the
LA -2 area south of County Road 47 on Vicksburg Lane would remain LA -2 with the exception
of an LA -3 area on the north portion.
Councilmember Harstad stated he would support this amendment, especially as it relates to the
transit plans. It would also make it easier for the development west of that area after 2020. It
would be a good compromise, as it would be spreading the higher density over a larger area.
Councilmember Brown stated he also could support this amendment. The plan would provide
greater flexibility and opportunities to establish clustering.
Councilmember Johnson stated she is apprehensive when the City is addressing minimum
densities. She feels life cycle housing could be achieved at LA -2 areas rather than LA -3 areas.
If the Council does support minimum densities, she cautioned the Council to not allowing too
high of density at that intersection.
Community Development Director Hurlburt commented it is not new that the City has to follow
the plan and minimum densities. If a developer were to present a change in the plan, it would
become a tool to negotiate with the Council.
Councilmember Slavik stated she would not support this amendment as she is not comfortable in
increasing the density. She stated she doesn't feel the Council is listening to the residents by
increasing the densities.
Councilmember Black reiterated this is a lower density than the remainder of the City as it is 2.6
acres per acre rather than 3.0 units per acre.
Motion was made by Councilmember Slavik, and seconded by Councilmember Brown to call the
uestion. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
The Council voted on the amendment. With all members voting against the motion but Black,
Harstad, and Brown, the motion failed.
Motion was made by Councilmember Slavik, and seconded by Councilmember Johnson to
reconsider Councilmember Johnson's and Councilmember Brown's motion to amend the
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 14 of 15
November plan which would change the LA -4 area adjacent to the commercial area to LA -3.
Councilmember Johnson stated this is a definite change in the July 27, 1999 plan. She stated the
parcels would be addressed on an individual basis when plans are presented to the Council. With
all members voting in favor except Black, the motion to reconsider carried.
Councilmember Brown asked Councilmember Slavik if she would be willing to amend her
motion to change the bottom third of the LA -2 area along Vicksburg Lane to LA -3.
Councilmember Slavik stated she would not.
Motion was made by Councilmember Harstad, seconded by Councilmember Slavik to call the
ueqstion. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
The Council voted on the amendment. With all members voting in favor except Black, Bildsoe,
and Brown, the motion carried.
Councilmember Johnson asked if the sewer system would be capable of handling a LA -3 area
north of Providence Academy and the railroad tracks. Community Development Director
Hurlburt stated it would depend on the condition of the homes, etc.
Motion was made by Councilmember Slavik, and seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe to
change the LA -3 area, adjacent to the area that was just changed to LA -3 to LA -2 (the second
parcel east of the commercial area).
Councilmember Slavik stated this would provide for a better transition as well as a compromise
for the neighborhood.
Councilmember Harstad stated this LA -3 parcel would be a unique area to develop. This parcel
is basically wetlands so it would be a perfect parcel to develop a higher density development
while still being creative. He does not support the Council decreasing the densities parcel by
parcel. Therefore, he would not support this motion.
Councilmember Black stated the City would be preserving, not destroying more of the natural
features of the area by downsizing these parcels. LA -1 and LA -2 areas are more destructive to
the environment than the higher densities which have smaller footprints. A lower zoning would
not protect all the trees.
Councilmember Johnson reiterated that she feels it's important for the Council to honor their
vote taken on October 21, 1998.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Special Meeting of November 15, 1999
Page 15 of 15
Motion was made by Councilmember Brown, and seconded by Councilmember Slavik to make a
friendly amendment to change the bottom third of the area designated as LA -2 located south of
County Road 47 on Vicksburg Lane to LA -3.
Councilmember Black stated she would prefer to see a larger portion of that LA -2 area be
designated as LA -3 as the Council needs to address life cycle housing.
Councilmember Johnson stated if the above motions are approved, the plan provides a good
amount of LA -3 and a portion of LA -4. She believes the City has a plan that would provide the
needed life cycle housing.
Councilmember Black stated in an effort in determining a compromise, she would support this
motion. However, she does not like it, and she is unsure if she would support the final plan.
The Council voted on the friendly amendment. With all members voting in favor but Bildsoe,
the motion carried.
The Council voted on the amended motion. With all members voting in favor except Bildsoe,
the motion carried.
The Council voted on the substitute motion with the two amendments. With all members voting
in favor except Bildsoe, the motion carried.
A map outlining the adopted Land Use Plan for the Northwest Plymouth area is attached to these
minutes for reference purposes. (Please note that this is a guide only for the staff and consultant
to prepare the final plan. The final plan would be presented to the Council at a future date for
consideration).
Adjournment
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, and seconded by Councilmember Harstad to
adjourn the meeting at 11:20 p.m. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
andra R. Paulson, City Clerk
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