HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-03-2001 WSProceedings of:
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COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL
TUESDAY, APRIL 3, 2001
5:00-7:00 P.M.
MURZYN HALL - MATHAIRE/MCKENNA
WORK SESSION
Present: Mayor Peterson, Councilmembers Nawrocki, Williams, Szurek, Wyckoff; Planning and Zoning
Commissioners Ramsdell, Erickson, Yehle, Schmitt, and Johnson
Proposed Zoning and Development Ordinance
Peterson stated this meeting is a follow-up to the first reading of the proposed Zoning and Development
Ordinance, specifically to answer Council questions and concerns, and to allow the Planning and Zoning
Commission members input regarding any changes to the old ordinance.
Ramsdell acknowledged the work done by Tim Johnson, City Planner and Kathy Pepin, Assistant Building
Official, and Planning and Zoning Commission members, who put in 50 to 60 hours on this ordinance revision.
Ramsdell reminded Council that the present ordinance was approved in 197 4.
Richard Abraham, 3954 Arthur, had concerns regarding the 1,000 square foot limitation for accessory buildings
and was requesting flexibility in the variance process addressing individual concerns. Erickson stated that the
variance process is governed by State Statutes, whereby a variance can only be granted if certain conditions are
met. Ramsdell indicated the need for uniformity in granting requests. He indicated the Planning and Zoning
Commission is an advisory commission, with final action taken by the City Council. Yehle referred to similar or
more restrictive ordinances in other cities.
Williams questioned automatic approval if no action is taken on a request within 60 days of application.
TIM Johnson stated this was true, but the action for variances, rezoning, and land use, can be tabled for 60
days, and tabled for a second 60 day period, with the permission of the applicant.
Ramsdell stated the concern to not have City lots covered with buildings, asphalt, and concrete. Pepin stated the
1,000 square foot restriction is limited by the MN State Building Code, and cannot be exceeded for accessory
structures. Ramsdell indicated that the ordinance would apply to approximately ninety percent of the lots in
Columbia Heights and the ordinance must not be aimed at individual situations. Szurek stated a variance could
not be for convenience; it must be based on a hard ship.
Douglas Franzen, 4246 Quincy, stated his personal situation wanting a small two-car garage, but has a small lot
and would be about one foot from each lot line. Ramsdell stated this would probably qualify as a hardship and
suggested he speak to staff, apply for a variance, and come before the Commission.
Nawrocki questioned the location of variance language within the ordinance. Tim Johnson referred him to
Section 4 page 4-7 and 4-8. Wyckoff questioned who constituted the Board of Appeals and Adjustments?
Ramsdell stated this was also the Planning and Zoning Commission. Fehst stated staff is looking at
recommending a separate Board of Appeals, with members having specific qualifications, such as engineer, or
architect. The Board of Appeals is the final authority if a Council action is questioned.
Wyckoff asked if hard surfaced driveway standards include businesses? Tim Johnson stated it does, in Section
7C. Ramsdell indicated this ordinance includes industrial property also. Pepin stated that this is a general
standard. Fehst stated enforcement could be handled in the same manner, as was the residential hard surfacing
·requirement. For pre-existing conditions, notice must be given to come into compliance, and at end of that
time owners can be cited.
Wyckoff questioned transitional emergency housing. Tim Johnson stated any new request would be required to
be .25 miles from all existing transitional housing.
Pepin offered to meet individually with Mr. Nawrocki or other Councilmembers to answer specific questions
regarding the proposed ordinance.
Nawrocki felt the changes made from the existing ordinance should have been highlighted in the information
given. Fehst stated that many areas of the ordinance were totally rewritten and would have been difficult to
indicate each change made. Nawrocki questioned the minimum requirement of 20 feet by 20 feet for a garage.
Yehle indicated that most requests are for more than a one-car garage. Peterson referred to the small garage at
the habitat house. Steve Johnson indicated this requirement is for new construction.
Nawrocki questioned portable signs versus temporary signs. Pepin indicated that a portable sign is anything that
is not a banner and can be moved around. Wyckoff questioned if the Balkan Express would be allowed to keep
the sandwich board advertising in front of their shop? Szurek stated they would not. Nawrocki questioned if a
sign on wheels would be allowed? Szurek stated that presently a portable sign is allowed by permit for a certain
number of days. Pepin indicated that under the new ordinance, signs on wheels will not be allowed. Ramsdell
read the definition. Steve Johnson suggested a sentence be added to better define temporary.
Nawrocki questioned building design standards allowing 50 percent veneer (metal). Steve Johnson stated that is
in the Commercial/Industrial section. Tim Johnson referred to Section 6-40. Ramsdell indicated that a pole
building would no longer be allowed. Peterson described what constitutes a pole building. Nawrocki stated
residential homes might desire more privacy and energy conservation using fewer windows than required. Steve
Johnson stated this standard is from the street view only.
Nawrocki questioned adult entertainment restrictions to industrial areas. Ramsdell indicated the limited use area
for this type business. Council questioned a "drop-in facility". Pepin indicated this would include
establishments like a mission or a food shelf. Nawrocki questioned the restriction of 30,00 feet from any like,
existing facility. Szurek referred to the current check cashing business. Fehst referred to consignment type
businesses that also sell new items, such as "Play it again Sports". Steve Johnson stated any approval would
come before Council for action. Tim Johnson referred to reputable temporary agencies. This business type could
be added as requiring a minimum distance from other such facilities.
Discussion covered the pros and cons of second hand stores. Yehle suggested using a percentage to define
"used" material. Pepin suggested the Planning and Zoning Commission discuss and determine percentages of
new or used material for retail sales. Peterson stated this does not prohibit, but regulates second hand stores
Nawrocki questioned landscaping and screening requirements. Ramsdell indicated this is for new homes
Fehst referred to signage and the problems involved. Peterson indicated that code enforcement is the problem.
Ramsdell stated that enforcement of conditional use permits is also a problem. He suggested these permits be
inspected every six months. Fehst suggested Tim Johnson set up a tickler file to check on these permits. Pepin
stated that someone needs to be responsible for issuing non-compliant citations. Steve Johnson indicated the
number one cause of municipal planning and zoning not working is enforcement.
Peterson thanked the Commission for their hard work on the proposed ordinance. He reminded everyone that
there may need to be changes to this ordinance in the future, but for now this document is the best that can be
done. Pepin indicated that this ordinance would also require changes to the licensing ordinance.
Nawrocki referred to second hand stores indicating the need to find a balance between what you like and what
consumers like. Regarding signs, Nawrocki referred to Central Avenue as a "billboard jungle", and he felt most
prospective businesses would find the present signage a detriment. Nawrocki felt there should be more
restrictions on signage in the community.
The meeting ended at 6:50 p.m.
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk