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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAugust 6, 2003OITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 590 40th Avenue N.E.. Columbia Heights, MN 55421-3878 (763) 706-3600 TDD {763) 706-3692 Visit Our Website ~tl: wwn:ci, cohembia-heights, llllt. Us M£MB£R$ Tom Ramsdell, Chair Donna Schmitt Ted Yehle Gary Peterson Phillip Baker PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING 7:00 P.M. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2003 CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 590 N.E. 40TH AVENUE Roll Call. Minutes l~om the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting of July 1, 2003. New Business: · Case# 2003-0809 Discount Tire, 5280 Central Avenue Site Plan Review · Case 2003-0810 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Kmart Site · Columbia Heights Design Guidelines (Resolution 2003-30) 4. Public Hearings: · Case2003-0811 Zoning and Development Ordinance Amendments 5. Miscellaneous: · None 6. Adjourn THE CItY OF COLUMBIA'' HEIGHTS DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF [DISABILITY IN EMPLOYMENT OR THE PROVISION OF SERVICES EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING JULY 1, 2003 7:00 PM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Chairperson, Tom Ramsdell. Roll Call: Commission members present- Yehle, Schmitt, Baker, and Ramsdell. Commission members absent- Peterson Also present were Tim Johnson (City Planner), Shelley Hanson (Secretary), and Tami Ericson (Council Liaison). Motion by Yehle, seconded by Schmitt, to approve the minutes from the meeting of June 3, 2003 as submitted. All ayes. MOTION PASSED. PUBLIC HEARINGS Case #: Owner: Address: 2003-0708 John Lund 2073 Manitou St. Paul, MN (651) 260-2007 Parcel Address: 4333 Washington Street NE Zoning: R-2, Single and Two-Family Residential Comprehensive Plan: LDR, Low Density Residential Applicant: Silver Oak Development 3800 Apache Ln Mpls, MN 55421 This is a request for a lot split of an existing parcel located at 4333 Washington Street NE. Currently 4333 Washington Street NE is one large parcel measuring approximately 141 feet by 158 feet in size (22,447 sq ft). The applicant is proposing to split off the south 60 feet of the parcel to create a new buildable lot for a single-family home on a new 'Parcel A'. There are no previous Planning and Zoning Commission cases on this site. The surrounding property is zoned R-2, single and two-family residential and is used residentially. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION MINUTES JULY 1, 2003 PAGE 2 Section 9.410(5) of the Columbia Heights Zoning Ordinance requires that an application for a lot split be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission, and that they submit their recommendation to the City Council. Section 9.903 of the Columbia Heights Zoning Ordinance regulates lot area, width, and yard requirements in the R-2 District, and Section 9.603 regulates accessory structures. Applicable requirements are as follows. * Minimum lot size shall be 6,500 square feet for any newly created single-family lot - The newly created 'Parcel A' (see survey attached) will be 9,519 square feet and the newly created 'Parcel B' will be 12,926 square feet, both of which exceed minimum lot size requirements. * Minimum lot width shall be 60 feet - The newly created 'Parcel A' is 60 feet wide exactly, and the newly created 'Parcel B' is 81.48 feet wide, which meet requirements. * Existing homes in relation to newly created property lines are required to meet the same setbacks as new construction. Side yards shall be at least five feet for any principal structure - The newly created property line on the south side of the existing house is proposed at 5.3 feet from the side yard property line, which meets requirements. The existing stoop is approximately 2 feet away from the new property line, but the ordinance allows for stoops, steps and landings to be located in the setback area as long as they are not closer than 1 foot to the property line. The proposed single-family home on 'Parcel A' will be required to meet appropriate setbacks from all property lines. * Detached accessory structures shall be at least 3 feet away from side and rear property lines - The existing detached structure is well over the 3 foot side yard setback requirement. * Any lot over 6,500 square feet may have a building lot coverage of up to 30% - Because of the large parcel sizes, the lot coverage for the newly created 'Parcel B' is less than 15%. The new construction on 'Parcel A' will have to meet the 30% lot coverage as well. The Public Works Department has reviewed this lot split and as part of the recently completed street construction on Washington Street, this project will require street excavation for the installation of new sewer and water stubs. This will require that the contractor pay for a curb to curb and joint to joint milling and overlaying to the City's specifications, rather than a patch job. As proposed, the City Council will have to formally approve this request for street excavation at their next meeting. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISION MINUTES JULY 1, 2003 PAGE 3 The City Comprehensive Plan designates this area as furore low-density residential development. The proposal is consistent with the City Comprehensive Plan and meets the minimum requirements of the Columbia Heights Zoning Ordinance. And the parcel is large enough to create a new attractive single-family home that will further add to the Columbia Heights tax base. Therefore, staff recommends approval of the lot split as it meets the technical standards of the Zoning Ordinance and is consistent with the City Comprehensive Plan. Commission member Baker asked about the elevation of the lot. He was concerned about this being the low spot on the block. Planner Johnson responded that the Public Works Director had reviewed the Lot Split application knowing the site will be built upon. They did not have any comments about drainage being negatively impacted. The Lot Split will go to the City Council at the July 14th meeting for their approval. Motion by Yehle, seconded by Baker, to recommend City Council approval of Resolution 2003- 31, as the lot split is consistent with City Zoning Ordinance and City Subdivision standards. All Ayes. MOTION PASSED. NEW BUSINESS A memo was enclosed in the agenda packets from Planner Johnson explaining that the Design Guidelines developed by City Staff, Consultants, and a Task Force of various representatives is ready to be adopted. However, the proposed guidelines which will be adopted by resolution, need to be specifically referenced in the Zoning Ordinance before official adoption by the City Council. Commission members were asked to review the final draft of the guidelines prior to the August 5, 2003 meeting. At that meeting in August the consulting firm URS will give a presentation to the Planning Commission on the guidelines. Basically, the guidelines will pertain to remodeling or re-development projects, as well as new construction along Central Avenue and 40th Avenue. It will help bring uniformity to the area and enhance the visual appearance by setting some parameters that owners can work with when planning their projects. Things such as facades, roofing, building placement, building height, colors, design of windows, doors, and entryways are all items that have been addressed in the guidelines. Task Force members have been encouraged to attend the next meeting to answer questions. A decision to adopt the resolution approving the Columbia Heights Design Guidelines, and the appropriate zoning text amendments to implement the guidelines will be considered. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION MINUTES JULY 1, 2003 PAGE 4 MISCELLANEOUS No further business. Motion by Yehle, seconded by $chmitt, to adjourn the meeting at 7:22 pm. All Ayes. Respectfully submitted, Shelley Hanson Secretary Case: 2003-0809 Page: 1 STAFF REPORT TO TI:t'E PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION FOR TI:rE AUGUST 6, 2003 PUBLIC I-IE~G Case #: 2003-0809 GENERAL INFORMATION Owner: Address: Phone: Discount Tire Company 20225 N Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, Arizona 85225 Dave Parker (480) 606-5763 Applicant: Same Parcel Address: 5280 Central Avenue NE Zoning: GB, General Business District Comprehensive Plan: Commercial Surrounding Zoning and Land Uses: Zoning North: Commercial (Fridley) South: General Business East: General Business West: General Business Land Use North: Commercial South: Commercial East: Commercial West: Commercial BACKGROUND' Explanation of Request: This is a request from the Discount Tire Company for Site Plan Review to construct a new facility on the former Hardee's site at 5280 Central Avenue NE. Case Histo~, : The site was a former Hardee's drive-thru and has been vacant since spring 2002. ANALYSIS Surrounding ProperO~: The surrounding property to the north and south is used and zoned commercially. The property rd to the east and west is used and zoned commercially. The intersection of 53 and Central is the north gateway to Columbia Heights and is visible from Highway 694. Fridley lies to the north of 53rd Avenue. Case: 2003-0809 Page: 2 Technical Review/Design Issues: The Discount Tire Company has purchased the former Hardee's Building and is proposing to demolish the structure, and in turn build a new Discount Tire store. Discount Tire Company owns and operates more than 500 stores in 16 different states. There are currently 8 other Discount Tire stores in the Twin Cities, with the newest locations in Saint Paul, at Hamline and University and another in Brooklyn Park. The plans are to construct a new facility fronting on Central Avenue that showcases design features consistent with the new Columbia Heights Design Guidelines and provides a visually attractive gateway to Columbia Heights from the north. In moving forward with this project, Discount Tire staffhave been working with City staff to achieve a successful project since spring of 2003. The proposed construction schedule from start to completion including demolition, is approximately 4 months, beginning this fall. Although the Columbia Heights Design Guidelines are not officially adopted, staff and the applicants have worked hard to meet the goals and objectives of these guidelines. The proposed building has been designed with the building fronting closer to the street than most other buildings in the highway district. This will allow for it to take advantage of comer sightlines. The building design will focus on creating visual interest from Central Avenue and 5? Avenue, with the service bays designed to face toward the west and parking area. The building will resemble a new Discount Tire prototype, but has been designed and tailored specifically for this site. The building will feature split-face block at the base and top of the building, with brick veneer around the entire building and window areas, and will be complemented by an EIFS finish below the top of the parapet wall. The front will also feature storefront pedestrian-friendly windows and doors and a ro~v of storefront display windows designed to be inviting and visually attractive, but also to hide the tire storage behind the wall. A fourth set of windows and single-door facing Central (shown in darker contrast) will be opaque spandrel glass and will hide tire storage and other service facilities from view. The north facing elevation will feature similar materials listed above, but will also be complemented by pedestrian-friendly windows and a sales display and office area. The westerly facing elevation will be designed to accommodate the parking and servicing of vehicles and will also feature complementary design finishes, including 3 overhead steel service doors with clear glass panels. An attractive heavy fabric awning has been proposed to cover the office and display area on the northeast side of the building and will wrap around to the northwest comer of the building to complement and make the building flow well. There will also be attractive wall- pack accent lighting on all sides for decorative appeal and to achieve safe light levels. The proposed front faqade facing Central Avenue and the rear main entrance facing the parking lot project a distinct character, and maximize natural surveillance and visibility. The building elevations facing Central Avenue have been broken up with various design features, including window variety, doors, fagade depression, contrasting building materials, and awnings. Note that the building height will be 26 feet, which will allow the building to achieve a stronger street Case: 2003-0809 Page: 3 presence. The renderings provided include elevations of what each building side will generally look like. The interior of the facility is being designed to operate with 6 service bays and additional miscellaneous equipment associated with the tire business. Tire storage racks will be placed behind the service bays the length of the structure, with a small dead tire storage area on the south side of the building. Ail tire storage is proposed to be kept in the building and not stored outside. The applicant has designed the site plan in harmony with the goals and objectives of the Columbia Heights Design Guidelines, even though as mentioned before, aren't officially adopted yet. In this context, staff has reviewed these plans and determined that the building and site plan meet the design standards and in most cases exceeds these standards. With this in mind, the commission can be confident that this site, as it's first test site, will set the standard for future projects on Central Avenue. Non-residential building setbacl~s: · Minimum fi'ont yard building setback is 15 feet; The proposed building meets this requirement as it is 20feet from the property line. While the building foundation is set back at 20feet, the ordinance allows for architectural features such as awnings to be placed in the setback areas. · Minimum comer side yard building setback is 15 feet; The proposed building exceeds this requirement as it is approximately 17. S feet from the north property line. Again with the ordinance allowing for architectural features to be placed in the setback areas. · Minimum rear yard building setback is 20 feet; The proposed building meets this requirement, as it is more than l OO feet ~om this property line. Minimum side yard building setback is 0 feet; The proposed building meets this requirement, as it is more than 20feet from this property line. Parking area requirements: Minimum requirements are one space per every 300 square feet of gross floor area with 2 spaces required per service bay; The total gross floor are square footage calculation for parking is based on 6,511 square feet. The site plan shows 34 off-street parking spaces proposed, with the requirement being 34. There are two handicapped spaces shown which meet the accessibility requirements. The parking lot is currently accessible from a curb cut on 53ra, with an additional shared access from the US Bank property off of Central Avenue. It should be noted that the lighting plan for the parking area submitted provides details on the footcandle measurements. These measurements meet the City requirements for lighting intensity at a maximum of 3 footcandles of light at the nearest non- residential property line. The lighting for the site includes two pole lights to be located on the southeast and southwest comers of the parking area. Minimum parking setbacks are 15 feet from the front and comer side property lines and 5 feet from the rear property line; Off-street parking proposed meets the City requirements as the parking is located completely in the rear of the property, is 18feet from the corner side pr°Perty Case: 2003-0809 Page: 4 line, and 6feet from the rear yard property line. $ignage requirements: The General Business District allows for wall signage not to exceed 200 square feet in size. The applicant is proposing wall-mounted signage for the building, which will have to meet Zoning and Design Guideline requirements as well. Signage will be verified during the permitting process. No specific style has been chosen for the building yet. Landscaping/screening: The site plan proposal also includes a landscaping plan, which provides details on plant and tree numbers, locations, and species. The ordinance requires a minimum of one tree for every 50 feet of street frontage, or a minimum of 4 trees for every one-acre of lot area covered by buildings, parking area, etc. But the Design Guidelines also require that parking areas adjacent to public streets or sidewalks be screened with a combination of landscape material and decorative fencing sufficient to screen parked cars. The landscaping plan includes 16 trees consisting of ash, crab, and pine varieties. In addition, a variety of shrubs, wood and rock mulch, and sod is proposed for groundcover, as well as 2 landscaped curb islands designed to break up the parking lot area. The plan proposed a, cceeds minimum City landscaping standards. The trees, shrubbery and decorative fencing proposed along 53ra will provide a nice screening feature from 53ra Avenue. In addition, a retaining wall will be rebuilt along the westerly property line to dress up the site and to prevent erosion. The designated loading zone on the south side of the site will also be screened with a row of Austrian Pine trees. In addition, the non hard-surface areas on the project site will be sodded and mulched (see landscape plan). Also, the dumpster will be located on the southwest side of the structure, will be built to match the finish of the building, and will be enclosed as required by ordinance. Access; Grading/Drainage; Water/Sewer Issues: The proposed building will be served by 53rd Avenue and Central Avenue, which should provide for adequate ingress and egress. There is one existing curb cut which allows for access to the site offof 53~ Avenue, and a shared drive with U.S. Bank which also allows for vehicular traffic fi'om Central Avenue. There should be no increase in traffic counts related to the site, as the site was a former Hardee's Restaurant. The site plan has also been forwarded to MnDOT as they are required to review site plans adjacent or fronting on Trunk Highways. From a brief conversation had with MnDOT officials, it is anticipated that there should not be any issues with this site. To be noted, the plans also call for a sidewalk extension from the Discount Tire entrance to the existing Central Avenue sidewalk and transit stop, which provide for a pedestrian friendly connection to the Avenue and meet the intent of the Central Avenue Design Guidelines. Public Works Director Kevin Hansen has also reviewed the site plan and grading/drainage plans submitted with his comments (see attached). The applicants have submitted a plan which directs the stormwater runoff towards 53rd Avenue, and away from adjacent properties. Keeping in mind Case: 2003-0809 Page: 5 that the proposed stormwater flows are comparable with the former use of the site. The Fire Department has also reviewed and preliminarily approved the plans (see attached email). Compliance with Cit~ Comprehensive Plan: The 2001 City Comprehensive Plan designates the property for future commercial use, wl'fich promotes commercial service development such as proposed. Summary: . The aspects of this proposal are as follows: · The new facility will further enhance the commercial tax base and create new jobs lost when Hardee's closed. · The facility proposed features varied architectural materials designed to create visual interest and to provide design features to the north gateway to Columbia HeiSts. CONCLUSION Staff Recommendation: Staffrecommends approval of the Site Plan proposal fi:om the Discount Tire Company to construct a new 7,700 square foot structure on the property at 5280 Central Avenue NE. Recommended Motion: Move to approve the Site Plan for the Discount Tire Company for a 7,700 square foot facility on the property at 5280 Central Avenue NE, subject to the following conditions: 1. All required state and local codes, permits, licenses and inspections will be met and in full compliance. 2. Final review and approval of gradin~drainage, water and sewer plans by City Engineer and Fire Chief. 3. Approved landscaping and screening shall be installed in conjunction with site development and prior to issuance of a final certificate of occupancy. Attachments: Site Plan; Grading/Drainage Plans, Landscaping Plans; Elevation Drawings; ?W & Fire Memo; Applicant Narrative From: Gary Gorman To: Tim Johnson Date: 7/26/03 10:02PM Subject: Discount Tire The Fire Department has reviewed the preliminary site plans for Discount Tire and have found them satisfactory. Captain Gary Gorman Fire Department (763)706-3650 PROPOSED DISCOUNT TIRE STORE Central Avenue at 53rd Avenue NE Columbia Heights, Minnesota DEVELOPMENT NARRATIVE May 13, 2003 Prepared by: Discount Tire Company 20225 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, Arizona 85225 - ! - Table of Contents INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE .................................................................................. 3 ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN ................................................................................. 3 A. Store Layout ............................................................................................... 3 B. Signs .......................................................................................................... 3 C. Store Operations ........................................................................................ 4 -2- INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE This project involves the development of a new retail tire facility operated by DISCOUNT TIRE COMPANY. Halle Properties, L.L.C. the parent company of Discount Tire Company, will be the property owner. The concerns addressed in this report include architectural design and building materials, signs, and store operations. Architectural Design Store Layout: Discount Tire Company owns and operates more than 500 stores in 16 different states. Over the years we have developed and redeveloped a prototype layout that not only works well for our employees but also provides a pleasant environment for our customers. Within these spaces we offer a sales area with access to tire and wheel displays and sales counters, or pods, where our sales staff can meet and take care of our customers. We also provide a customer waiting area inside the building. We provide a seating area with visual access to the service area so our customers can track the progress on their vehicle. These are the public areas. We also include a service area in which we install the tires and wheels we sell. We also provide tire rotations and fiat repair when requested. That is the limit of the work we provide to our customers. We do no other work, such as oil changes, auto service, windshield replacement, etc. The service area provides space for two lifts per service bay or per overhead door; in the case of this property, 4 doors and 8 bays. There is additional room for the miscellaneous equipment associated with the tire business, i.e. spin balancers, mounting machines, etc. As a function of our retail business, we also provide for the storage of our tire and wheel inventory. This is accomplished with the use of tire storage racks that are located adjacent and behind the service area. These racks sit on the floor and are freestanding. At 9 feet above the floor, a metal grate is attached between the racks as a walking surface. This "catwalk" allows our employees access to the upper reaches of the racks and are accessed via two separate stairways, which are built in to the rack layout. The racks extend to 17 feet above the service area floor. Signs: The only signs proposed at this time are depicted on the building elevations and are building mounted, individual letters. The letters are 30" tall and are illuminated internally with L.E.D. light strips, an energy efficient alternative to fluorescent lighting. C. Store Operations: This proposed facility provides a retail environment in which tires and wheels for passenger vehicles and light duty trucks can be purchased. These same tires and wheels can also be installed at this facility. Our tire technicians also provide tire rotation service and will, when possible repair flat tires. This is the limit of the work that is done in the service areas of our stores. Our stores are open from 6:00 am until 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. We are closed on Sunday. Vehicles are never kept overnight at our facilities but the work is completed and the customers sent away with their vehicles. Our entire tire inventory is stored inside the service area on racks. Tire and wheel displays are kept inside the showroom / display area. Nothing is left outside our buildings. Our tires are delivered in large tractor-trailer trucks. When tires are delivered, they are off-loaded completely inside the store and when possible, directly into the racks. Used tires or "deads" are stored in the dead tire storage room, out of the way of the service area. We contract with private haulers to remove these tires on a timely basis. This area is completely enclosed and used tires are never stored or stockpiled outside the building. -4- America's largest independent tire retailer. · America's largest wheel wholesaler/retailer. · Established 1960 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. ~_k -~--_'-'- · Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. · Focused solely on selling tires and wheels to the passenger, SUV and light truck replacement markets. Convenient, integrated retail distribution channels include stores, e-commerce (www.tires.com) and mail order. · Over 500 company owned stores in 18 states strategically located in 94 major metropolitan markets. · In some California, Oregon and Washington markets the company is known as America's 7~re Co. · Highly trained and experienced employees focused on customer service and satisfaction. · Prototype store totals 8000 square feet with 5000 unit inventqry capacity, 8 state of the art service bays and a 2000 square foot showroom. · Multi-brand tire dealer with product lines that include Michelin, BFGoodrich, Uniroyal, Goodyear, Dunlop, Continental/General, Pirelli, Yokohama, Nitto, Kumho and private brands. · Wholesale distribution serving auto dealers and secondary tire retailers. · Distribution centers in Arizona, Nevada, Ohio and Texas. 35 12 ~.. r~. 19 TRACT CENTRAL STATE TRUNK AVENUE NE HIGHWAY NO. 65 i? j® ¥ ,,% l STATE CENTRAL TRUNK AVENUE NE HIGHWAY NO. Zz.O N (X705'30~ W r- CENTRAL STATE TRUNK AVENUE NE HIGHWAY NO. 65 ~oo ~ZZ -I RACT B CENTRAL AVENUE .~" 'STATE T R U N K HIGHWAY 9.90 NE NO. gg 3N AYM H O I H ){ N {3 ~1J. 3 LV.L $ 3 I1N"a AY '1¥~ / N q O W/42' ~IA~DR,AJL 20' BI~G. SE'FeAC'~ LI ~ , ,, J ~oo ~z~ zT.o I~TA]NING WN..L W/42' 147.87' N 00'05'30' W --7 S O0'OB'~O' E CENTRAL 1 AVENUE 9.go NE STATE TRUNK HIOHWAY NO. 65 z mmm ZZZ' 0 CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 590 40th Avenue N.E.. Columbia Heights, MN 55421-3878 (763) 706-3600 TDD (763) 706-3692 Visit Our Website at: ww~ '.ti. columbia-heights mn us COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT Mayor Julienne Wyckoff Councilmembers Bruce Nawrocki Bruce Kelzenberg Tammera Ericson Bobby Williams City Manager Walter R. Fehst Date: To: From: Re: July 31, 2003 Planning and Zoning Commission Tim Johnson, City Planner Comprehensive Plan Amendment (Kmart Site) As part of the redevelopment of the Kmart site, one of the initial steps is to amend the City Comprehensive Plan to correctly reflect what the overall Kmart Redevelopment Plan is trying to achieve. Amending the Comprehensive Plan requires review and approval by the Metropolitan Council before the change can be officially implemented. The Planning Commission is being asked to review' the proposed amendment and recommend approval to the City Council. The City Council will be acting on this Comprehensive Plan Amendment at their August 1 lth meeting. City Council approval of the Comprehensive Plap_ Amendment is subject to final review and approval by the Metropolitan Council. It is anticipated that the Metropolitan Council will complete their review by the end of August. Please refer to attached Planning Report by DSU for further clarification on Comprehensive Plan Amendment. THE CITY OF COLUMBIa' HEIGHTS DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY IN EMPLOYMENT OR THE PROVISION OF SERVICES EQUAL OPPORTUNITY I~MPLOYER DAHLGREN SHAI )LOW AND-UBAN INCO~POi~AT*a D CONSULTING PLANNERS LANDSCAPE AI~CHITECTS 300 FIRST AVENUE NORTH SUITE 210 MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55401 612-339-3300 PHONE 612-337-5601 FAX CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS PLANNING REPORT CASE NUMBER: DATE: TO: APPLICANT: LOCATION: REQUEST: PREPARED BY: 2003-0810 July 24, 2003 Columbia Heights Planning Commission City of Columbia Heights Kmart Redevelopment Area (East of Central Avenue between 47th & 49th Avenues - See Figurel) Comprehensive Plan Amendment Ciara Schlichting, Planner, Dahlgren, Shardlow and Uban Introduction The Kmart Redevelopment Area Study began in May 2003 and is nearing completion. The objectives of this study are to redevelop an outdated retail center, provide more employment opportunities, provide new housing choices, reestablish transit use, and encourage walking and biking. The end result of this study is the final Kmart Redevelopment Plan. The draft Kmart Redevelopment Plan proposes mixed-use development that includes residential, commercial, park, office, and civic uses. The adopted Comprehensive Plan does not currently allow for mixed-use developments within the subject area. Since the Comprehensive Plan is the framework for guiding zoning and development decisions, it must be amended to change the land use designation of the subject parcels to be consistent with the concepts proposed in the draft Kmart Redevelopment Plan. Chapter 9 of the City Code requires that the Planning Commission prepare recommendations to the City Council regarding changes to the Comprehensive Plan. This proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment is on the City Council's August 11th meeting agenda. The City Council must either Columbia Heights Planning Commission (Case 2003-0810) 3uly 24, 2003 Kmart Redevelopment Area -- Comprehensive Plan Amendment approve the Comprehensive Plan amendment contingent upon Metropolitan Council review or adopt a resolution transmitting the amendment to the Metropolitan Council for review. After the Metropolitan Council review is completed, the City will continue plan implementation activities, including adopting the final Kmart Redevelopment Plan, establishing a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District, amending the Zoning Code, and review and approval of specific redevelopment plans within the greater redevelopment area. The City will have ample opportunities in the future to review and consider approving specific redevelopment plans proposed for the subject properties. Recommendation That the Planning Commission recommend that the City Council approve the Comprehensive Plan amendment for the Kmart Redevelopment Area, contingent upon Metropolitan Council review, which changes the land use designation from Commercial to Transit Oriented Mixed-Use. Planning Considerations 1) The existing land uses within the redevelopment area consist o f s ix (6) commercial retail buildings. The surrounding land uses include commercial retail, office, apartments, two family residential, and single family residential (Figure 2). 2) The total size of the redevelopment area is approximately 21 acres. The subject properties are guided Commercial and zoned GB-General Business District. (Figure 3 and Figure 4). These designations do not provide the flexibility needed to accommodate mixed-use redevelopment projects, given the limited permitted uses allowed under each land use category. 3) The 2001 Comprehensive Plan established three (3) Mixed-Use land use categories: Transit Oriented Mixed-Use, Community Center Mixed-Use, and Transitional Mixed-Use. The purpose of creating the Mixed-Use districts was to "facilitate redevelopment and enhancement efforts in targeted areas of the community" (page 20, Comprehensive Plan). The Kmart Redevelopment Area is a section of the community that has been officially targeted for redevelopment since the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan. 4) The Transit Oriented Mixed-Use designation appears to be the most appropriate Mixed-Use designation for the subject properties. Both the Community Center Mixed-Use district and the Transitional Mixed-Use District are tied to specific geographic areas within the community. The Community Center Mixed-Use district is intended to guide the redevelopment of lands in the vicinity of City Hall. The Transitional Mixed-Use District is intended to guide the redevelopment of lands along 40th Avenue from City Hall to Central Avenue. Criteria for the location of Transit Oriented Mixed-Use district only requires that the district be located in areas along existing transit routes. 5) The Comprehensive Plan provides a description of areas guided Transit Oriented Mixed-Use. Specifically, the Comprehensive Plan states that these areas "will focus on the commuting needs of Columbia Heights residents. As a result, a higher percentage of service-oriented 2 Columbia Heights Planning Commission (Case 2003-0810) 3uly 24, 2003 Kmart Redevelopment Area -- Comprehensive Plan Amendment commercial/retail development will be necessary with high-density residential development providing the balance of the development. Mixed-Use pedestrian-oriented development near transit nodes will provide opportunities for high-density residential and neighborhood commercial development. Redevelopment of these areas will also provide the opportunity for pedestrian linkages to other parts of the community and improvement of the overall non- motorized circulation system within the community that will help improve the image of Columbia Heights." (Page 22, Comprehensive Plan). 6) Although the final Kmart Redevelopment Plan is not being considered for approval at this time, the draft Kmart Redevelopment Plan provides the framework for determining the most appropriate land use designation. The Kmart Redevelopment Plan is consistent with the description of the Transit Oriented Mixed-Use District (see item 5 above): · The study area is located along an existing transit route; · New residents will be able to commute to work via the existing transit routes; · Potential patrons will continue to access existing business via transit and likewise, will be able to patronize any new business via transit; · A high percentage of the area will continue to provide service-oriented commercial/retail along Central Avenue and new higher density residential uses will balance the development and provide a transition from commercial development to the adjacent residential areas; and · The plan will provide pedestrian connections to and through the subject properties. 7) The proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment is consistent with the goals contained in the Comprehensive Plan, including, but not limited to: · Goal: Strengthen the image of the community as a desirable place to live and work. The Transit Oriented Mixed-Use designation provides new housing and job opportunities in close proximity to one another. · Goal: Preserve and enhance the existing viable commercial areas within the community. Central Avenue is an important commercial corridor within the community that will be enhanced by more housing (potential customers) within walking distance, new businesses, and street enhancements. · Goal: Provide opportunities and mechanisms for successful redevelopment of targeted areas within the community. The land use change will support the implementation of the Kmart Redevelopment Plan. · Goal: Advocate high quality development and redevelopment within the community. Urban design guidelines and an overall redevelopment plan will help ensure high quality development. · Goal: Provide a variety of life-cycle housing opportunities within the community. A new Mixed-Use District will provide new residential opportunities in areas previously limited to commercial use only. · Goal: Strengthen areas of commercial and civic activity by introducing complementary housing development. The new Mixed-Use District will introduce housing oppommities mixed with commercial and civic activity. · Goal: Increase pedestrian and bicycle safety in residential neighborhoods. The Kmart 3 Columbia Heights Planning Commission (Case 2003-0810) 3uly 24, 2003 Kmart Redevelopment Area -- Comprehensive Plan Amendment Redevelopment Plan proposes streetscape enhancements, which include improved crosswalks and sidewalks and pedestrian level lighting. Goal: Manage and maintain the investment in the existing roadway system. The Kmart Redevelopment Area will be served by the existing roadway system and will provide a new internal circulation system within the site. 8) Given the description of the Transit Oriented Mixed-Use designation, the consistency of the Kmart Redevelopment Plan with the Transit Oriented Mixed-Use description, and the consistency of the proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment with the goals of the adopted Comprehensive Plan, I recommend amending the Comprehensive Plan, contingent upon Metropolitan Council review, to change the land use designation of the subject properties from Commercial to Transit Oriented Mixed-Use (Figure 5). Attachments · Figure 1 - Kmart Redevelopment Area · Figure 2 - Existing Land Use · Figure 3 - Future Land Use Plan · Figure 4 - Official Zoning · Figure 5 - Proposed Change to Future Land Use Plan 4 City of Columbia Heights Kmart Redevelopment Area Lincoln ~mnior HI~I~ 4~th Av~ ....... · '[1' F ']FT..TI I ~ Ill.-.]ll;llill .... , ,.: ........ .... . ~,~ .... .,!:~,.,. ,..-.... .: '"'"' '~ .... r'"".,T',. .... , .t .,:,. ,, .,,,.:,,... , _, ..... ,,, ,.._ .,,.. ,,., ,:,,, ' - , ~ ', :.i Iii .., !.,, h~.; ~ ~ Ii I ira-, ~ .,i I- !',~ '.;;-: ,- .... ~: - - "7__..'. ..· ,...i .. ,i' ,... ,'~-', .. -. J ~ .... ~ .... I,. i11111111-"I __ El IJ.:.l.2bJ I.'lr'r:11;l:; L. II.lbllI. E iii.il' I !,.,..: III !.i; i:- J. · ! -. ,..{~ IIIIIIlil .lllllllllljtlllllli i - II ( C~ty of COLUMBIA HEIGHTS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FIGURE 2-2, FUTURE LAND USE M A P L E GEN Future L~nd Use: Low IX. naRy R~idential -- Reli~io~ [p. stilx~oe, s Comm~cial __ lndmtri~l V~ ~b~c: I ~-of-W~y No~Ci~ ~: ~ C~ ~ C~ ~M~I~ D Ac~s: % of Total: L,029.202 44.30% 59.538 2.56% 69.9'/0 3.01% 48.191 2.07% [6.092 0.69% 111.575 4.80% 87.831 3.78% 7.641 0.33% 37.882 1.63% 10.675 0.4~, 0.316 0.01% 123.483 5.31% 517.569 22.28% 60.317 2.9g% 74.g45 3.22% TOTALS: 2323.443 ~ Wa~er Featu~s 54.09 t Actea ~V City Limits ~ PatcelLinea O Redeveloplm'ntArea ~G.I.S. Di~I COLUMBIA HEIGHTS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FIGURE 2-2, FUTURE LAND USE M A P LEGEND L~: CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 590 40lb Avenue N.E.. Columbia Heights. MN 55421-3878 (763) 706-3600 TDD (763) 706-3692 Visit Our Website rtl: wn'n', ti. coh.~tbia-heights..m, tts COlVlMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT .~layor Julienne Wyckoi'l' Councihnembers Bruce Nawrocki Bruce Kelzcnberg Taramera Ericson Bobby Williams City Manager Walter R. Fehst Date: To: From: Re: July 30, 2003 Planning and Zoning Commission Tim Johnson, City Planner Columbia Heights Design Guidelines The Columbia Heights Design Guidelines process that started in 2002 is now complete and ready for adoption. The Columbia Heights Design Guidelines document was developed by City Staff, consultants, and a Task Force with representatives from the City Council, Planning Commission, area businesses, landowners, and interested citizens. You were sent a copy of the final draft guidelines in June for review. The planning finn URS, that worked to develop these guidelines will be giving a presentation to the Planning Commission. You will hear what these ~idelines will apply to, and how they will be implemented. Recommendation: Adoption of Resolution 2003-30, approving the Columbia Heights Design Guidelines, along with appropriate zoning text amendments necessary to implement the Design Guidelines, as these guidelines are consistent with good design principles and complement recent streetscape improvements on Central Avenue. Motion: Move to recommend City Council adoption of Resolution 2003-30, which is a resolution adopting Design Guidelines for the Central and 40th Avenue Corridors. Attachments: Resolution 2003-30 THE CITY OF ~OLUMBIA' 'P~EIGH'TS I'-)OES NOT [~)ISCRIMINA rE ON TIdE BASIS OF DISABILITY iN EMPLOYMEN i- OR THE PROVISION OF SERVICES ~(~UAL OPPORTUNITY ~MPLOYER RESOLUTION NO. 2003-30 CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA A RESOLUTION ADOPTING COLUMBIA HEIGHTS DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR THE CENTRAL AND 40vI~ AVENUE CORRIDORS WHEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights has undertaken a process of preparing design guidelines that will build on and complement recent streetscape improvements, in which these guidelines will apply to the Central Avenue and 40th Avenue corridors; and WHEREAS, the Design Guidelines will be implemented to guide developers and business owners wishing to improve, expand, renovate, or proposing new building or parking construction; and to assist City Officials in reviewing development proposals; and WHEREAS, these guidelines were developed by City Staff, consultants and a Task Force with representatives from the City Council, Planning Commission, area businesses, landowners, and interested citizens; and WHEREAS, the City intends that these guidelines be mandatory, however it is understood that there may be many ways to achieve similar design objectives through alternative approaches; and WHEREAS, the design guidelines will be linked to the Zoning Ordinance through the creation of three Design Overlay Districts consisting of the Central Avenue Business District (CBD), the 40th Avenue District, and the Highway District; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Planning Commission has reviewed the Columbia Heights Design Guidelines, and recommends approval to the City Council. Passed this day of 2003. Offered by: Second by: Roll Call: Attest: Mayor Julienne Wyckoff Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 590 40th Avenue N.E.. Columbia Heights. MN 55421-3878 (763) 706-3600 TDD (763) 706-3692 Visit O.r Website at: n'ww. ci. cohtmbia-heights...~.us COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT Mayor Julienne Wyckoff Councilmembers Bruce Na~wocki Bruce Kelzenberg Tammera Ericson Bobby Williams City Manager Walter R. Fehst Date: To: From: Re: July 30, 2003 Planning and Zoning Commission Tim Johnson, City Planner Columbia Heights Zoning and Development Ordinance Amendments During the Columbia Heights Design Guidelines adoption process, it became apparent that several zoning and development ordinance amendments would be necessary in order to keep the Design Guidelines and Zoning Ordinance consistent and to anticipate future changes designed to facilitate redevelopment. These zoning ordinance amendments are now being proposed along with the Design Guidelines in order to ensure that the guidelines are effective, useful, and serve their purpose. The changes are quite lengthy to explain in great detail, but the amendments address minor changes in various sections of the ordinance, including building design standards, lighting, setbacks, parking exemptions, landscaping, mixed-use district, and the establishment of a new Design Overlay District. Recommendation: Staff recommends adoption of attached Zoning and Developi~qent Ordinance amendments, as these amendments are necessary in order to ensure consistevcy with Columbia Heights Design Guidelines. Motion: Move to recommend City Council adoption of attached Zoning and Development Ordinance an~endments. Attachments: Zoning Ordinance amendments THE CITY OF COLUMBI,~' HEIGHTS DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY IN EMPLOYMENT OR THE PROVISION OF SERVICES EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER 't ORDINANCE NO. BEING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 853, CITY CODE OF 1977, PERTAINING TO ZONING AND DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE #1428 The City of Columbia Heights does ordain the following amendments: Section 9.614 Building Design Standards. Section 9. 614 shall be amended to read as follows: 5) Design Guidelines. The City Council may adopt by resolution design guidelines that shall apply to designated areas or districts of the City with greater specificity than the standards in this section. Where there is a conflict between the design guidelines and the standards in this section, the guidelines shall apply. 9.614 Building Design Standards. 3) Building Materials and Design. Currently reads: 3) (b) At least 30% of the first floor facade that faces a public street, sidewalk or parking lot shall be windows or doors of clear of lightly tinted glass that allows views into and out of the building at eye level for non-residential uses. Shall be amended to read as follows: 3) (b) At least 30% 20% of the first floor faqade that faces a public street, sidewalk or parking lot shall be windows or doors of clear of lightly tinted glass that allows views into and out of the building at eye level for non-residential uses. 9.611 Lighting: Currently reads: Lighting Fixtures. Lighting fixtures shall be of a downcast with flat lens, cut-offtype that conceals the light source from view and prevents light from shining on adjacent property. At no time should a fixture be aimed and/or tilted above a horizontal plane in commercial or industrial districts. Shall be amended to read as follows: Lighting Fixtures. Lighting fixtures shall be of a downcast with flat lens, cut-offtype that conceals the light source from view and prevents light from shining on adjacent property. At no time should a fixture be aimed and/or tilted above a horizontal plane in commercial or industrial districts, with the exception of architectural up-lighting or landscape lighting. Section 9.612 Currently reads: 8) Off-street Parking District. Should the City establish a public off-street parking district, those uses located within the district shall be exempt from providing off-street parking spaces as required herein. Shall be amended to read as follows: 8) Off-street Parking District. Should the City establish a public off-street parking district, those uses located within the district shall be exempt from providing off-street parking spaces as required herein. The CBD, Central Business District, is established as a public off-street parking district, so that nonresidential uses are exempt from providing off-street parking spaces as required herein. Residential uses, including those in mixed-use buildings, shall provide off-street parking as required herein. Section 9.1006 CBD, Central Business District Shall be amended to read as follows: 5) Off-Street Parking. The CBD, Central Business District, shall be considered an Of- Street Parking District in which off-street parking is not required for nonresidential land uses. Residential uses, including those in mixed-use buildings, shall meet the parking requirements of Section 9.612. Section 9.1003 Lot Dimensions, Height and Bulk Requirements Currently reads: LB GB CBD Minimum Lot Area 6,000 sq. ft. 6,000 sq. ft. Minimum Lot Width 50 feet 40 feet 20 feet Minimum Lot Depth Lot Area Per Dwelling Unit Single Family Dwelling 6,500 sq. ft. Multiple Family Dwelling Efficiency 1,200 sq. ft. 1,200 sq. ft. One bedroom 1,800 sq. ft. 1,800 sq. ft. Two bedroom 2,000 sq. ft. 2,000 sq. ft. Three bedroom 2,500 sq. ft. 2,500 sq. ft. Additional bedroom 400 sq. ft. 400 sq. ft. Congregate Living Units' 400 sq. ft. 400 sq. ft. Hotel or motel 400 sq. ft. Hospital 600 sq. ft. Building Setback Requirements Front Yard 12 feet 15 feet I foot Side Yard 15 feet None None Comer Side Yard 10 feet 15 feet I foot Rear Yard 20 feet 20 feet 10 feet Parldng Setback Requirements Front Yard 12 feet 15 feet 1 foot Side Yard 5 feet 5 feet None Corner Side Yard 12 feet 15 feet 1 foot Rear Yard 5 feet 5 feet 5 feet Maximum Height 35 feet 35 feet Maximum Lot Coverage Floor Area Ratio 1.0 6.0 Section 9.1003 Lot Dimension, Height and Bulk Requirements. Shall be amended to read as follows: LB GB CBD Minimum Lot Area 6,000 sq. ft. 6,000 sq. ft. Minimum Lot Width 50 feet 40 feet 20 feet Minimum Lot Depth Lot Area Per Dwelling Unit Single Family Dwelling 6,500 sq. ft. Multiple Family Dwelling Efficiency 1,200 sq. ft. 1,200 sq. ft. One bedroom 1,800 sq. ft. 1,800 sq. ft. Two bedroom 2,000 sq. ft. 2,000 sq. ft. Three bedroom 2,500 sq. ft. 2,500 sq. ff. Additional bedroom 400 sq. ff. 400 sq. ft. Congregate Living Units 400 sq. ft. 400 sq. ft. Hotel or motel 400 sq. ft. Hospital 600 sq. ft. Building Setback Requirements Nonresidential/Mixed-Use Front Yard None Residential Front Yard 5 feet Front Yard ! 2 feet 15 feet -1- None Side Yard 15 feet None None Comer Side Yard 10 feet 15 feet I foot Rear Yard 20 feet 20 feet 10 feet Parking Setback Requirements Front Yard 12 feet 15 feet I foot Side Yard 5 feet 5 feet None Comer Side Yard 12 feet 15 feet 1 foot Rear Yard 5 feet 5 feet 5 feet Maximum Height 35 feet 35 feet Maximum Lot Coverage Floor Area Ratio 1.0 6.0 9.613 5) Landscaping and Screening. Screening Requirements. Screening shall be provided in accordance with the following requirements: Currently reads: a) All off-street parking areas containing six (6) or more parking spaces and located adjacent to or across a public right-of-way (street or alley) from a residential or residentially zoned property, the parking area shall be screened along the boundary with the residential use. Where any commemial or industrial use is located adjacent to or across a public right-of-way (street or alley) from a residential or a residentially zoned property, the commercial or industrial use shall be screened along the boundary with the residential use. Shall be amended to read as follows: a) All off-street parking areas containing six (6) or more parking spaces and located dj ...... ~,~,, .4.~ ~,c ...... t~ ^~ .,~.^ r..~..,, id ti a acent to ,,. acres: ,~ v .......r~ .......v [ ............j] ..... a res en al or residentially zoned property, the parking area shall be screened along the boundary with the residential use. Where any commercial or industrial use is located adjacent to or acro,s~q a t~ ....... c~ ....... j ~ ............ .,/ or across a public alley from a residential or a residentially zoned property, the commercial or industrial use shall be screened along the boundary with the residential use. 6) Section 9.613 6) Shah be amended to read as follows: Screening of Parking Areas from Adjacent Properties. All parking and loading areas (including drive-through facilities, pump island service areas and stacking spaces) abutting a public street or sidewalk shall provide: a) A landscaped frontage strip at least 5 feet wide along the public street or sidewalk. If a parking area contains over 100 spaces, the minimum required landscaped frontage strip shall be increased to 8 feet in width. b) Screening consisting of either a masonry wall, fence, berm or hedge or combination that forms a screen a minimum of 3 feet in height, a maximum of 4 ~ feet in height, and not less than 50 percent opaque on a year-round basis. For reasons of personal safety and security, parking lot screening should allow clear visibility of pedestrians above the 3-foot high viewing range. c) Trees shall be planted at regular intervals of no greater than 50 feet within the frontage strip. Section 9.1203 Mixed Use Development District Types Currently reads: Mixed Use Development District Types. The City's Comprehensive Plan identifies three distinct mixed-use development opportunities with the City. 1) Transit Oriented Mixed-Use. The purpose of the Transit-Oriented Mixed Use is to promote development and redevelopment that facilitates linkages and interaction of transit services, housing and neighborhood services. The focus of land use within this district is to ensure a pedestrian friendly environment and pedestrian connections to and from residential development and transit facilities. The mix of land use shall be 60 percent service-oriented commercial/retail and 40 percent high density residential development (12 units/acre minimum). Section 9.1203 Mixed Use Development District Types Shall be amended to read as follows: Mixed Use Development District Types. The City's Comprehensive Plan identifies three distinct mixed-use development opportunities with the City. 1) Transit Oriented Mixed-Use. The purpose of the Transit-Oriented Mixed Use is to promote development and redevelopment that facilitates linkages and interaction of transit services, housing and neighborhood services. The focus of land use within this district is to ensure a pedestrian friendly environment and pedestrian connections to and from residential development and transit facilities. The mix of land use shall be 60 d~v~opm~ flexible to help facilitate a successful development (12 units/acre minimum). Section 9.1205 Performance Standards. The following performance standards shall be applied to all mixed-use developments. Currently reads: 1) The minimum size of a mixed-use development shall be five (5) acres. Shall be amended to read as follows: 1) The minimum size of a mixed-use development shall be ~ flexible to help facilitate a successful development. 4) 4) Section 9.1301 General Provisions Currently reads: Establishment of Overlay District. The following overlay districts are established: a) Floodplain Management Overlay District b) Shoreland Management Overlay District Section 9.1301 General Provisions Shall be amended to read as follows: Establishment of Overlay District. The following overlay districts are established: a) Floodplain Management Overlay District b) Shoreland Management Overlay District c) Design Overlay District Section 9.1304 Shall be amended to read as follows: 1) Purpose: The Design Overlay Districts are established to increase the visual appeal and pedestrian orientation of certain major street corridors within the City, thereby increasing the economic vitality of these corridors, and to support the goals of the Comprehensive Plan. z) Establishment. The following design overlay districts are established: a) Central Avenue Design District b) 40th Avenue Design District c) Highway Design District 3) a) b) Design Guidelines. The Columbia Heights Design Guidelines shall apply to development within the Design Districts. The Columbia Heights Design Guidelines are hereby incorporated into this ordinance by reference in order to: Guide developers or business owners wishing to propose expansions, renovations or new construction of buildings or parking within the Design Districts; Assist City officials and staff in reviewing development proposals. 4) Applicability of Design Guidelines. Design guidelines shall apply to all nonresidential, mixed-use and/or multi-family buildings, and to the following activities: · New construction; · Any exterior changes, including repainting, with the exception of replacement or repair of existing materials; · Any internal remodeling or expansion activity that increases the overall size of the building by 10 percent or more; · Any development or expansion of parking areas that woUld result in a lot with more than four parking spaces. · Minor alterations such as repainting may be handled administratively, as determined by the City Planner. The guidelines are intended to be mandatory. It is assumed that the intent of the guidelines shall be met; however, it is understood that there may be ways to achieve the same design objective. The City may permit alternative approaches that in its determination, meet the objective(s) of the guidelines(s) equally well. The guidelines shall apply only to the building or site elements being developed or altered. That is, a proposal for changes to a building would be required to meet only those standards that pertain to buildings, while changes to a parking area would be required to meet all standards for parking areas, but not for buildings. The City Planner will make the initial determination as to which standards are applicable. Design Review shall be conducted as part of the site plan review process, as specified in Section 9.413.