PLM 01/15/2014
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
January 15, 2014
Vice-Chair Oquist
called the Planning Commission Meeting to order at 7:12 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Brad Sielaff, Dean Saba, Tim Solberg, Leroy Oquist and Jack
Velin
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Brad Dunham and David Kondrick
OTHERS PRESENT:
Stacy Stromberg, Planner
Scott Hickok, Community Development Director
Hugh Roberson, Tri-land Developments
Glenn Johnson, Tri-land Developments
Roger Fink,Trident Development
Kurt Swanson, 6010 Fifth Street NE
Muriel Sharpe, 5924 Fifth Street NE
APPROVE PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES:
December 18, 2013
MOTION
by Commissioner Saba to approve the minutes as presented. Seconded by
Commissioner Sielaff.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
1. PUBLIC HEARING
Consideration of a public hearing for a Preliminary Plat, PS #14-01, by Tri-Land
Developments, LLC, to subdivide the existing large lot; to create two (2) separate
parcels from the original lot; for development along 57th Avenue, generally
located at 250 57th Avenue NE.
MOTION
by Commissioner Sielaff to open the public hearing. Seconded by Commissioner
Saba.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY AND THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED AT 7:13 P.M.
Scott Hickok
, Community Development Director, stated the petitioner Mr. Johnson, of Tri-land
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Developments Inc., the owner of the property located at 250 57 Avenue is requesting a
preliminary plat to subdivide the existing large lot. The proposed subdivision will create two
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separate parcels from the original lot; for development along 57 Avenue.
Mr. Hickok
stated creation of these separate lots will allow each parcel to have its own tax
parcel and tax bill, which is what McDonald’s and the petitioner would like to happen.
Mr. Hickok
stated the subject property is located on the northwest corner of Interstate 694 and
University Avenue. It is surrounded by right-of-way on all sides. In 1966 the original 165,000
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 2 of 22
square foot building was constructed. Two variances were granted on the subject property
since it was originally developed, one to reduce the amount of required parking stalls and
another to allow the construction of a loading dock facing the public right-of-way. The lot has
already been replatted twice to allow for the creation of the existing CVS lot and Holiday gas
station lot.
Mr. Hickok
stated in 2010 the property was rezoned from C-3, General Shopping to PUD,
Planned Unit Development. Since that rezoning was approved, several changes have occurred
on the site. Approximately 30,000 square feet of the original building has been removed, Cub
Foods has moved to a smaller space on the west side of the building, and the Fridley Liquor
Store has a new space on the east side of the building. The entire interior and exterior of the
building have been completely renovated. A new free-standing McDonald’s building has been
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constructed on the proposed Lot 2, along 57 Avenue. The entire parking lot has also been
redone, with the installation of new landscaped medians. The property will continue to be
modified as new tenants occupy the site and additional buildings are constructed.
Mr. Hickok
stated Tri-land Developments Inc. is seeking to replat the subject property to allow
for the creation of two separate parcels from the original lot, which will allow for further
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development along 57 Avenue. The proposed replat will consist of three lots that will be legally
described as: Lot 1, Lot, 2, and Lot 3, Block 1, Fridley Market. Proposed Lot 1 will be 608,839
square feet or 13.98 acres in size; Lot 2 will be 31,406 square feet or .72 acre in size; and Lot 3
will be 27,532 square feet or .63 acres in size.
Mr. Hickok
stated the property is zoned PUD, Planned Unit Development. The PUD
designation was approved to allow flexibility with the redevelopment of the property. When the
rezoning was approved, a General Plan of Development was also approved that establishes
guidelines that dictate what type of quality development the City wants to see.
Mr. Hickok
stated the PUD zoning does not have a lot size minimum or maximum; however,
staff has generally referred to the most similar zoning designation for comparison. The C-3,
General Shopping, minimum lot size is 35,000 square feet; and the C-2, General Business,
minimum lot size is 20,000 square feet. Lot 1 of the proposed subdivision, where the main
building is located, would most closely relate to a C-3, General Shopping, zoning designation;
while Lots 2 and 3 would most closely relate to a C-2, General Business, zoning designation.
Based on those comparisons the proposed subdivision would comply with code requirements.
Since the PUD zoning does not have a minimum lot size requirement and allows flexibility in
meeting regular code standards, staff has determined that this preliminary plat meets the intent
of the PUD zoning designation and redevelopment of this property.
Mr. Hickok
stated though Lots 2 and 3 will be separate from Lot 1 for sale and tax purposes,
the PUD zoning will need to stay with those properties to ensure lot size compliance. Shared
parking and access easements will also need to be established between the lots.
Mr. Hickok
stated City staff recommends approval of the preliminary plat request, with
stipulations as the plat meets the intent of the PUD zoning.
Mr. Hickok
stated staff recommends that if the preliminary plat is granted, the following
stipulations be attached:
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 3 of 22
1. The purpose of this plat request is for development and finance purposes. Lots 2
and 3 shall not be separated from the PUD zoning designation unless all three
lots within this development are re-evaluated and the City agrees the PUD can
be modified to reflect that change.
2. The petitioner shall establish and file at Anoka County a shared access
agreement between Tri-land Developments Inc. and Lots 2 and 3, Block 1,
Fridley Market, upon final plat approval.
3. The petitioner shall establish and file at Anoka County a shared parking
agreement between Tri-land Developments Inc. and Lots 2 and 3, Block 1,
Fridley Market, upon final plat approval.
4. The petitioner shall pay park dedication fee for Lot 2 of $722.33 and Lot 3 of
$633.23 upon issuance of a building permit for a building for Lot 3.
Vice-Chair Oquist
asked the petitioner if he has seen the stipulations?
Hugh Roberson
, Executive Vice-President of Tri-land Developments, replied, they have and
find them reasonable.
Commissioner Saba
stated it is pretty straightforward.
Commissioner Velin
asked the petitioner when is this all going to take place?
Mr. Roberson
replied the continued redevelopment of the center will unfold over the next 12-24
months. They have plans that are basically done for a 9,600 square foot building on what he
believes is Lot 3 now. They have other tentative interest in the balance of the former Gander
Mountain space for about 30,000 feet of what is about 50,000 square feet. They are just
wrapping up some of the preliminary construction on that now; however, much of the outside
work has been done.
MOTION
by Commissioner Sielaff to close the public hearing. Seconded by Commissioner
Saba.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY AND THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED AT 7:18 P.M.
MOTION
by Commissioner Saba Approving Preliminary Plat, PS #14-01, by Tri-Land
Developments, LLC, to subdivide the existing large lot; to create two (2) separate parcels from
the original lot; for development along 57th Avenue, generally located at 250 57th Avenue NE
with the following stipulations:
1. The purpose of this plat request is for development and finance purposes. Lots 2
and 3 shall not be separated from the PUD zoning designation unless all three
lots within this development are re-evaluated and the City agrees the PUD can
be modified to reflect that change.
2. The petitioner shall establish and file at Anoka County a shared access
agreement between Tri-land Developments Inc. and Lots 2 and 3, Block 1,
Fridley Market, upon final plat approval.
3. The petitioner shall establish and file at Anoka County a shared parking
agreement between Tri-land Developments Inc. and Lots 2 and 3, Block 1,
Fridley Market, upon final plat approval.
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 4 of 22
4. The petitioner shall pay park dedication fee for Lot 2 of $722.33 and Lot 3 of
$633.23 upon issuance of a building permit for a building for Lot 3.
Seconded by Commissioner Sielaff.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. PUBLIC HEARING:
Consideration of a public hearing for a Street and Alley Vacation, SAV #14-01, by
Trident Development, LLC and the City of Fridley's Housing and Redevelopment
Authority, to allow for the redevelopment of the Gateway NE properties, which are
generally located along the University Avenue Service Drive, east of University Avenue
NE, from 58th Avenue NE to 61st Avenue NE. The street proposed to be vacated is a
portion of 60th Avenue NE from the University Avenue Service Drive to the alley on the
east side of the subject parcels. The alley proposed to be vacated is located to the east
of the subject parcels and south of vacated 59th Avenue NE. Legal descriptions of
properties involved in the project are on file at Fridley City Hall.
3. PUBLIC HEARING:
Consideration of a public hearing for an S-2, Redevelopment District Master Plan, MP
#14-01, by Trident Development, LLC, to allow for the development of the Gateway NE
properties, with the construction of three (3) new multi-family residential buildings,
generally located along the University Avenue Service Drive, east of University Avenue
NE, from 58th Avenue NE to 61st Avenue NE. Legal descriptions of properties involved
in the project are on file at Fridley City Hall.
4. PUBLIC HEARING:
Consideration of a public hearing for a Transit Oriented District (TOD) Master Plan, TOD
#14-01, by Trident Development, LLC, to allow for the development of the Gateway NE
properties, with the construction of three (3) new multi-family residential buildings,
generally located along the University Avenue Service Drive, east of University Avenue
NE, from 58th Avenue NE to 61st Avenue NE. Legal descriptions of properties involved
in the project are on file at Fridley City Hall.
MOTION
by Commissioner Saba to open the public hearings. Seconded by Commissioner
Sielaff.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY AND THE PUBLIC HEARINGS WERE OPENED AT 7:41 P.M.
Stacy Stromberg,
Planner, stated she will be presenting public hearings No. 2, 3, and 4
together, as it relates to one project.
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 5 of 22
Ms. Stromberg,
stated Roger Fink of Trident Development, LLC, is requesting three land use
items to allow for the redevelopment of the properties located at 5831, 5865, 5895, 5905, 5925,
5943, 6005, 6041, 6061, and 6071 University Avenue, known as, “Gateway Northeast”.
1. S-2 Master Plan – These properties were rezoned in 2012 from C-2 General Business to
S-2 Redevelopment District to accommodate future redevelopment. Once there is a
development plan for the properties, an S-2 Master Plan needs to be reviewed and
approved by the City Council before development can start on site.
2. TOD Master Plan – These properties are within the TOD Overlay District, so a TOD
Master Plan also needs to be reviewed and approved by the City Council before
development can start.
3. Street and Alley Vacation – In order to accommodate the redevelopment of the subject
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properties, a portion of 60 Avenue from the University Avenue Service Drive to the alley
on the east side of the subject properties. An alley is also proposed to be vacated that is
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to the east of the subject properties and south of vacated 59 Avenue.
At a later date, a vacation request will be submitted for the University Avenue Service
Drive.
Ms. Stromberg
stated the petitioner is asking for approval of the above requested land use
items to allow the construction of a phased project for a multi-family apartment community, to be
called “Cielo”. The project will include three separate buildings with the Phase 1 building
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starting on the corner of University Avenue and 61 Avenue. Phase 2 and Phase 3 buildings
will continue south on the remaining properties. There will be covered and surface parking
available for all three buildings as well as the installation of new landscape features and storm
water treatment.
Ms. Stromberg
stated the subject properties are approximately 8.86 acres in size total and front
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on the University Avenue Service Drive from 58 Avenue to 61 Avenue. They were originally
developed mainly in the 1950’s and 1960’s for commercial uses, restaurant and gas stations.
When access was limited as a result of upgrading University Avenue, several of the businesses
began to suffer and as a result significant vacancies occurred and the buildings became
blighted.
Ms. Stromberg
stated the City and the HRA have wished to redevelop this area for a number of
years. Consequently, the HRA started to acquire some of the properties in 2006 after being
approached by property owners wanting to sell their obsolete retail buildings. Acquisitions of
the properties concluded in 2013 and demolition of the properties was done in three phases.
The first phase of demolition was started in late 2009, the second phase took place in 2011, and
the last building that was purchased in 2013 (Vet Clinic) was also demolished that same year.
The HRA currently owns all of properties involved in these land use requests.
Ms. Stromberg
stated prior to demolition of the buildings, resolutions were adopted determining
that certain parcels are occupied by structurally substandard buildings and were to be included
in a tax increment financing district. To acquire and prepare the site for reuse, the HRA has
spent over $4.5 million. The properties have a value, depending on its reuse, between $1-2
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 6 of 22
million. It is this difference of $2.5-3.5 million that will be paid from the tax increment financing
district. If it was not for the availability of tax increment to pay for acquisition, demolition,
relocation, environmental remediation, infrastructure, and site preparation this project would not
proceed.
Ms. Stromberg
stated in 2007 the HRA partnered with the Corridor Housing Initiative to
brainstorm, collaborate, and develop some plans for the future of the subject properties. The
buildings proposed by the petitioner are of the similar height and scale as those buildings the
neighbors and other residents designed for the site at that time. Ms. Stromberg presented two
sketches of the buildings designed by the residents.
Ms. Stromberg
stated in late 2011 the HRA hired Premier Commercial Partners to market the
properties. In 2012 there was interest from three different parties wanting to purchase all or at
least portions of the property for redevelopment. As a result City Planning staff and the HRA
decided it would be beneficial to have the properties rezoned to the redevelopment district to
give the potential buyer/development more flexibility when designing a project. Since the
rezoning approval staff has been working with the Trident Group to develop a plan that meets
the goals of the HRA and the City.
Ms. Stromberg
stated over the few months, City staff and the HRA have spent a great deal of
time working with Trident, their surveyor, the HRA’s title company, Mn/DOT, and Anoka County
to identify and clean up the issues that are always associated with plats that were recorded 130
years ago. The issues include alleyways that were vacated but not filed at the County, Mn/DOT
parcels that have been turned back to the City, and other minor corrections that Anoka County
is helping to fix. We expect all of the title/plat issues to be resolved in time to allow for a transfer
of property to the petitioner this spring.
Ms. Stromberg
stated there have also been meetings with utility companies to identify locations
of utilities, to ensure that existing utilities will be protected and review new locations for any and
all utilities.
Ms. Stromberg
stated the proposed development, which will be called, “The Cielo”, will have a
total of 256 apartment units, contained in three separate buildings. Each building is proposed to
be four stories, with three stories of living above indoor, ground level parking. Two of the
buildings proposed have 104 units and the third building has 57 units. Buildings 1 and 2 will be
connected to each other through a skyway. Each building will have adequate parking and green
space provided to accommodate the development.
Ms. Stromberg
stated the petitioner has designed the project with removal of the University
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Avenue Service Drive. A new private drive coming off of 61 Avenue will be installed on the
east side of the subject properties, which will allow access to the project. The project will also
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receive access from 60 Avenue and on the south end of the site from the Service Road
connected to 57 ½ Avenue. The City is currently working with Anoka County and Mn/DOT on
the University Avenue Service Road turn-back documents. This means MnDOT did turn back
the service road to the Fridley; however, staff is working on finalizing some title document
issues. Once staff has the clarification needed on those documents, a street vacation request
of the service road will be reviewed by the Planning Commission and City Council. The
buildings are going to be pushed closer to University Avenue approximately 15-20 feet from the
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 7 of 22
property line. There will be no more service road; however, the sidewalk will remain in front of
the building.
Ms. Stromberg
stated according to the petitioner, “due to the long, narrow shape of the site, the
buildings are positioned in a lineal fashion fronting the length of University Avenue. The
buildings are situated approximately 90 feet from the eastern property line, where the rear yards
of the single-family homes are located. The surface parking is located on the east side of the
building so as to not be visible from University Avenue. A portion of the development will be
green space which will offer outdoor amenities such as walking trails, a picnic and grilling area
and a gazebo. This open space also allows for certain amount of storm water infiltrations.
Sidewalks are also included in the design, providing convenient pedestrian access to public
sidewalks and to other areas of the neighborhood.”
Ms. Stromberg
stated as to the S-2 Master Plan, when any property is rezoned to S-2
Redevelopment District, it requires that the accompanying site plan become the Master Plan for
the site. Once the S-2 Master Plan is approved by the City Council, any modification to that
approved master plan would require a Master Plan Amendment. When this site was rezoned in
2012, a master plan was not developed and as a result, “the plan” was not approved with the
rezoning. This is the first master plan the City is reviewing for the subject properties.
Ms. Stromberg
stated review and recommendation is also required by the HRA to the City
Council before the master plan can be approved. The HRA has seen the plans for the proposed
project and will formally review this request at their February 6, 2014 meeting. To allow the
HRA time to review this application before it goes to the City Council, this item will go before the
City Council on February 10, 2014.
Ms. Stromberg
stated as to the TOD Master Plan the Planning Commission and City Council
will recall that in 2011, the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Overlay District was approved.
The subject properties are within the TOD Overlay District. See map to the right, for the TOD
district boundaries.
Ms. Stromberg
stated the purpose for the adoption of the TOD Overlay is to:
A. Implement code requirements that will encourage dense, mixed-use, pedestrian-
friendly development within a one-half mile of the Northstar Commuter Rail
Station in Fridley.
B. Create multi-modal connections to the Fridley Northstar Commuter Rail Station
that allow for safe access to the station no matter what means of transportation
someone uses.
C. Create a neighborhood identity with the Northstar Station that promotes the use
of mass transit, human interactions, safety and livability.
D. Reduce automobile dependency by locating a variety of land uses within a half
mile of the train station.
E. Provide life cycle housing for people of different income levels and housing
space needs within one half mile of the train station.
Ms. Stromberg
stated the proposed development is the City’s third TOD Overlay Master Plan
request that aims to achieve the desires the City set forth when creating this district. As a result
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 8 of 22
the project needs to comply with the TOD standards that were designed to enhance the
pedestrian scale and safety of any particular development. The TOD Overlay allows for
flexibility when designing a redevelopment project that encourages dense, mixed use,
pedestrian-friendly developments. It was also created to minimize the use of the automobile by
allowing reduction in parking requirements, if certain conditions can be met and sidewalks are
constructed.
Ms. Stromberg
stated over the last eight years the City’s HRA has been purchasing and
demolishing the dilapidated buildings along this corridor of University Avenue to allow for future
redevelopment. The petitioner has designed a project that meets the TOD standards that will
enhance the development and achieve what the City and HRA were hoping to see with
redevelopment of this land.
Ms. Stromberg
stated as to the Street and Alleyway Vacation request, in order to
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accommodate the proposed development, a portion of 60 Avenue needs to be vacated as well
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as a 12-foot alley located south of vacated 59 Avenue. As stated above, at a later date, the
petitioner and HRA will bring before the Planning Commission and City Council a street vacation
request for the University Avenue Service Road.
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Ms. Stromberg
stated if the portion of 60 Avenue is vacated, the entire land area would be
turned over to the existing property owner, who is currently the HRA. There are several utilities
located within this right-of-way, so once vacated; the area will need to be retained as an
easement. The petitioner is planning to landscape this area and keep in open. They also plan
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to construct a skyway from Building 1 to Building 2, which will go over the vacated 60 Avenue,
but will allow enough room for utility companies to get access if need be.
Ms. Stromberg
stated when the 12-foot alley is vacated, the abutting property owners will
acquire 6 feet of additional land along their rear lot lines. As a result the HRA would get 6 feet,
and the neighboring properties to the east would get 6 feet. The additional land area is needed
to make this project successful.
Ms. Stromberg
stated Trident Development, LLC did have a neighborhood meeting last
Thursday and told City staff it was a good meeting with well-pointed questions. There were
about 16 members of the neighborhood present, and a copy of the petitioner’s notes from the
meeting is in front of them tonight and should be entered into the record. Staff has heard from
four neighbors about the proposed project, and one of them was just inquiring about the
neighborhood meeting and whether it was going to be on television. Then there was another
neighbor who just had some general questions, not saying if they were for or against the project.
Also, two neighbors she heard from this week were not happy about the development being
multi-family; they wanted to see something more commercial or single family in nature.
Ms. Stromberg
stated City Staff recommends approval of the S-2 and TOD Master Plans with
stipulations as they meet the purpose of the TOD Overlay District, the proposed use meets the
goals highlighted in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan, and they provide additional housing
opportunities.
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 9 of 22
Ms. Stromberg
stated City Staff recommends approval of the street and alley vacation request
provided that the City of Fridley reserves onto itself and other utility providers a permanent
easement for drainage and utility purposes.
The following are the recommended stipulations as part of the S-2 Master Plan and TOD Master
Plan approval:
1. The property shall be developed in accordance with the master site plan,
submitted by hma Architects, dated _______.
2. The building shall be developed in accordance with the architectural exterior
elevations sheets, submitted by hma Architects, dated _______.
3. The petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
4. The petitioner shall meet all Building code, Fire code, and ADA requirements.
5. The petitioner shall ensure that the any signage meet code requirements and
shall obtain a separate sign permit prior to installation.
6. Landscape plan to be reviewed and approved by City Staff prior to issuance of
building permit.
7. A buffer between the residential properties to the east and the proposed project,
through the use of a fence, landscaping or a combination of both shall be
reviewed and approved by City staff prior to issuance of a building permit. The
petitioner shall install said buffer at the same time Building #1 is constructed.
8. Replacement of chain link fence along the Mn/DOT right-of-way will be
incorporated as part of this project. The fence design and installation shall be
agreed upon and approved by Mn/DOT, the City’s HRA, the City and the
Developer and said agreement shall be in place prior to issuance of a building
permit for Building #1.
9. City engineering staff to review and approve grading, drainage and utility plans
prior to issuance of building permits.
10. The petitioner shall pay all water and sewer connection fees prior to issuance of
a building permit.
11. All lighting in the development shall be shielded and downcast. Lighting shall be
provided through free-standing lighting that adequately illuminates the sidewalk.
12. All crosswalks shall be installed using a colorized pavement pattern when
connecting the sidewalk on each side of a driveway. All connections shall be
accessible.
13. If the square footage of the footprint of any of the buildings proposed changes by
more than 10 percent at that phase of the development, an S-2 master plan and
TOD master plan amendment shall be required.
14. A Development Agreement outlining the Developer’s obligation to install utilities,
etc., will be prepared by the City and shall be signed by the Petitioner prior to
issuance of a building permit for Building #1.
MOTION
by Commissioner Sielaff accepting staff’s presentation as part of the record for Item
Nos. 2, 3, and 4. Seconded by Commissioner Solberg.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 10 of 22
MOTION
by Commissioner Saba receiving the January 9, 2014, neighborhood meeting notes
submitted to staff by the petitioner. Seconded by Commissioner Sielaff.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Commissioner Saba
asked for clarification on the all vacation, Ms. Stromberg mentioned part
of an vacation has already been made and 6 feet would go to the developer, 6 feet would go to
the City, and 6 feet would go to the property owners on the east side. It is 18 feet.
Ms. Stromberg
replied, no, the alley is 12 feet. When the alley is vacated, 6 feet will go to the
HRA because it owns the property on the west side of the alley; and the 6 feet will go to the
neighboring properties on the east side.
Commissioner Solberg
asked about the west side of the building facing University Avenue.
He is not sure if that is where the stipulations for S-2 Master Plan, No. 8, where it talks about the
chain link fence, he understands that they are going to eliminate the service road that is there
now. Then they are going to reinstall the chain link fence, is that correct? If that is the case is
there any way or reason that is binding the City of doing that; or perhaps there is an opportunity
to eliminate that.
Mr. Hickok
replied, very good question; and it is something the City Manager is working very
closely with the State on removing the fence along University Avenue. One thing is for certain,
we do not want the MnDOT fence that exists there right now; and that is going to be part of the
redevelopment. Staff thinks that for symmetry there will be some sort of ornamental fence that
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will carry on up to the point of 61. It might be a modification of what they see on west side;
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however, they think it is important that, up to the point of 61 that a more ornamental fence
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would be installed on that side. However, north of 61 Ave there is an effort to take out the
MnDOT fence and not have it on either side of the road. Then it would give you symmetry up to
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61 and then clear the way once you get past that. Staff thinks though as part of this
development and it is in staff’s recommendation in that stipulation that there be an agreement
on the design of that fence, and that it be agreed upon not only by the City and the developer
but by MnDOT as well.
Commissioner Saba
asked about the setback standards on the front yard setback, it says in
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the report approximately 43 feet from the property line closest to 61 Avenue; the petitioner has
left additional land on the north side of the building to allow for an elevator and stairway building
connection that could at some point connect to a possible skyway. Do we have any timeframe?
What is the status of that possible walkway crossing University Avenue?
Commissioner Hickok
replied, as many of them will recall staff did make an application to the
Metropolitan Council for design funds for an overpass over University Avenue as part of this
redevelopment area. Although the City scored fairly well, it did not score high enough to get the
funding to do that. The City has not given up on that hope. Staff does think that this being part
of the TOD and having bus and train so close to this site, this would be a very important
element. The developer agrees with the City to the extent they have allowed land north of their
building to provide for that elevator core which would attach to that skyway then over University
Avenue. Also, they have even designed into their project the ability for somebody in the building
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 11 of 22
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south of 61 could stay inside and go to that elevator core and/or stay on that level and cross
University Avenue, go down to the elevator/stairs, or continue west to the train. This project has
been designed with the idea that at some point we would do this. A fairly expensive venture,
from what staff understands at least in the early rounds of discussion. More money will be
available to the City once it gets the actual design done. There seems to be more opportunities
and funding sources for construction money than the actual design money. The first step in the
process is for the City to get it designed.
Commissioner Saba
stated they are talking about landscaping and the addition of 114 trees,
what kind of size are they looking at and what kind of maintenance plan will there be to make
sure these trees survive and thrive?
Ms. Stromberg
replied, with any development the petitioner needs to comply with the
landscape plan that is submitted to the City and, if a tree dies, they need to replace it.
Commissioner Saba
stated normally the City has a minimum diameter.
Ms. Stromberg
replied, for a coniferous tree the minimum height at installation is 6 feet and a
deciduous tree needs to be 2.5 inch caliber at time of planting.
Roger Fink,
senior vice-president of Trident Development, stated they have been through a
number of very productive meetings involving numerous staff members, the HRA, title
companies, utilities companies, to get this project laid out to what they see here today. He has
some comments speaking more to the property apartments, the features, amenities, tenant
profile, etc. They believe their site design meets or exceeds all of the design standards of the
TOD overlay district.
Mr. Fink
stated when they first set out to design the overall plan for the Cielo, they really had
five primary planning objectives. They were to introduce a new, contemporary, urban element
to the University corridor. They wanted to create a definite presence that was sort of an image
or a landmark if you will for Fridley and the University corridor. They also wanted to continue
what they believe is a positive streetscape that is occurring right now traveling north of 694 with
that wrought iron fence and brick bollard. They like that look. Mr. Hickok commented on the
benefits of that, and it was another one of their objectives.
Mr. Fink
stated they wanted to promote the mass transit connections, recognizing the proximity
to the bus stops and to the commuter rail depot. They wanted to be sure their tenants had
access to that as they believe many of their tenants will be commuters, many will take care of
that mass transit rather than rely on an automobile. Finally, they wanted to design flexibility with
the site plan that allowed them to proceed through the phases of this property as the market
would demand. Design it so that it meets an immediate need, they meet a future need, and
they meet a third needs that they believe is also an unmet need here in Fridley.
Mr. Fink
stated the first building of the first phase is the northernmost building which is 104
units. The reason for that being the first one has to do with the extension of utilities as it stands
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right now. They believe they will be pulling utilities from the 61 connection and continuing
those south as the development proceeds. The final building of the three-phased project would
be the smaller one at the south end. They envision that building might attract more of an age-
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 12 of 22
restrictive tenant base there. They recognize that there also is an unmet need in this market
area of 55 and older active senior apartments. They experienced that when they built the
Landmark of Fridley, the assisted living property at Mississippi and Central. They also did a
market study which led them to also believe there are not a lot of available apartments if you are
an active senior, an active couple who are 55 and older and want that maintenance free
apartment rental lifestyle. They are looking at that as a potential market segment as well.
Mr. Fink
stated the site was really laid out, organized, constrained by a number of things.
There were the dimensional restraints, the property being rather shallow in depth as well as long
and narrow. This kind of drives the entire site plan. They have some existing significant
underground utility structures and to relocate, route, or remove them would be financially as
infeasible to deal with that.
Mr. Fink
stated they had about a four-hour meeting with their architectural team this morning
and had a lot of give and take regarding color, windows, materials, etc. Some of those
elements are still up for debate. However, he wanted to make clear to the Planning
Commission that it is their intent to maintain the urban and contemporary appearance they have
here with the design but are not extremely fond of the bright red accents; therefore, they are
examining other colors that might be more visually appealing. They are not all that excited
about stark white field. That needs to be warmed up. They do think the exterior materials will
be a variety of different durable maintenance-free materials. They are examining a cultured
stone project for the foundation wainscoting. He has a sample of something he found
interesting which he can show them. The primary element for the exterior material would be a
product called EFIS which is an exterior insulation finishing system. That gives them a lot of
flexibility in terms of introducing color and release and serves many useful purposes, is very
durable, and maintenance free. Finally, there is a third material the architect is introducing.
There is a horizontal material you see from the first and second floor which is intended to be
more of a metallic finished product. They have yet determined exactly what they want to use
there; however, they do want a third material introduced to this to add variety on the exterior
materials. Suffice to say they are intent on having durable and maintenance-free exterior
materials there.
Mr. Fink
stated based on the market study they conducted in the Fridley area which extended
into Blaine and Spring Lake Park, Columbia Heights, and into New Brighton indicated there is
immediate need for additional rental housing at these specific site in excess of 200 units. That
market study also income-qualified those residents having a household income of $40,000 or
more. They intend this property to be 100 percent market-rate meaning there will be no rental
subsidies, no Section 42 tax credit, no Section 8 vouchers proposed in this property. They plan
to have conventional financing and no subsidized or low-income units here. That subject came
up in the neighborhood meeting.
Mr. Fink
stated for a tenant profile they envision they will see single professionals, working
couples, perhaps some empty nesters that will find this location and this housing lifestyle
attractive. The rental range as what they are looking at right now and which is supported by the
market study would indicate a one bedroom in the rental range of $950 a month with the largest
unit of three bedrooms being in the $1,500 a month range. That is what is consistent with what
new competitive properties in the market now are achieving.
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 13 of 22
Mr. Fink
stated they do have a variety of unit styles. They are proposing a small number of
studio units. About 8 of those in the first building. There is a variety of one-bedroom units; 36
one-bedrooms, 48 two-bedrooms, and 12 three-bedroom units which would make up the 104-
unit building. Inside the building they have programmed a number of interior amenities. Again,
they had the market study examine existing competing properties for the amenity package that
they offer and came up with something that is pretty attractive.
Mr. Fink
stated they will have a very generous community room furnished with a kitchenette, a
big screen T.V., seating, and an attached outdoor patio. There will be a fitness center which will
have secured access and equipped with gym-quality equipment, treadmills, ellipiticals, weight
machines, also finished with mirrors and televisions. They have also introduced the idea of an
inside private movie theater which will be the first property he has developed with this amenity.
The lobby is a two-story atrium designed so will be a very prominent and welcoming entrance to
the main building. They also have on-site management with a management office in each
building. Last but not least some adequate tenant storage for additional storage outside the
apartment unit if necessary.
Mr. Fink
stated they also have amenities planned outdoors as well. He calls the green space
between the two buildings his central park. This is where they are proposing to organize their
outdoor amenity activities. On one end will be a gazebo outdoor feature. On the other side they
are proposing more of a picnic and grilling area. In the center is probably where they will situate
an infiltration pond going on there. On that note he would say that area will not be adequate to
do all of their stormwater treatment. They are proposing additional infiltration basins elsewhere
as well as some underground stormwater infiltration structures beneath the parking lot.
Mr. Fink
stated as to unit features, in general they will find each unit will have a private
balconies, fully-equipped kitchen appliance packages, center island, pantries, track lighting, a
full washer and dryer in each apartment, walk-in closets, raised panel interior doors, window
treatments, and central air conditioning systems by use of the magic pack self-contained HVAC
systems.
Mr. Fink
stated in light of the staff review they have had of this plan and in light of the
neighborhood meeting, they have sort of pulled together a list of plan change considerations
they are looking at right now. He would like to go through each of these so they can understand
what they are looking at, what might be approved, and taken forward to the Council depending
on the outcome here. Nothing extremely significant; however, worth noting.
Mr. Fink
stated the first one is a stipulation for a six-foot fence. The neighborhood group
expressed a preference for a seven-foot high privacy fence. They are okay with a seven-foot
high private fence. They also talked about how that privacy fence might look and circulated a
couple of photographs of different vinyl-clad, maintenance free, privacy fences. The neighbors
were able to pick out their preferred design. They are okay with proceeding with that, and he
has samples to show them.
Mr. Fink
stated one other idea which he really supports and that they are considering is
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regarding the new entrance on 61 Street. They have a divided island separating the inbound
from the outbound traffic. They want to redesign that slightly. One thing they would like to
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improve on is they would like to widen the lane for the inbound traffic off of 61. Their engineer
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 14 of 22
says if they widen it by about one or one-half feet, then that should alleviate the concern of the
Fire Department making their turn into that property without colliding with any improvements
they might have in the median. They would love to have a monument sign located in that center
median designating their property. Their civil engineer has done a turning analysis of the
largest ladder truck who said, one foot wider and they can turn right in there.
Mr. Fink
stated the next improvement he would like to make is make the exiting lane (the lane
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that goes out onto 61) wide enough to provide for two lanes of traffic, one that would be turning
left and one that would be turning right.
Mr. Fink
stated as to the last improvement he would like to make that entire entrance drive a
little bit longer. There is a lull just to the south that he would like to eliminate that in some
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fashion and allow for additional stacking of cars, making that exit out onto 61. That is kind of
an engineering change they are looking at doing there and some of that comes from the
neighborhood meeting.
Mr. Fink
stated both sides of the property have sidewalks. One on the parking lot side and one
on the University side. They heard from the neighborhood groups that public sidewalk access is
important to them and indeed they want to be able to have public pedestrian circulation from
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61 Street south and back and forth. He is going to discuss with staff the possibility of placing a
public sidewalk easement so there is no restriction for neighbor pedestrians to be able to utilize
the sidewalk on the property.
Mr. Fink
stated they are going to be reviewing some fire hydrant quantities and fire hydrant
locations on this property. The Fire Department has reviewed their plan and has had some
suggestions. As they develop their detail on the wrought iron fence, some of that will be driven
as well in terms of access to the fire hydrant from University.
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Mr. Fink
stated another idea they are exploring that may come forward is the 60 Street
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connection. They heard from the neighborhood group they would really like a 60 Street dead
end cutoff, no access, from their property. There would be no ingress or egress in or out of this
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property by the use of 60. Access would be restricted to 61 and then again at 57 ½ . He did
not promise the neighborhood group any decision on that at their meeting. He stated that is
more of a City planning emergency ingress/egress question the City would be comfortable with
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it. He could probably live with it either way; however, he did see the advantages of the 60
Street connection. One of the reasons he is proposing to add the right turn lane on their
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northerly access point is, in the event the City wishes to continue that 60 Street connection, a
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right turn lane would take the pressure off 60 Street by allowing people to go ahead and turn
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right. Even if it were to go up to the 4 and come back to get in line to get to University and not
thth
necessarily need to use the 60 Street all the time to go northbound. If 60 Street remains
open, then the City engineering department is talking about coming up with ideas that allow
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vehicles such as snowplows to get in and out of that as they operate snow removal on 60. For
example, the idea of a roundabout has been discussed right where that “T” intersection is
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between the parking lots and 60. In the coming days they will kind of explore that further and
see what sort of design works best. They also believe that such a roundabout feature,
depending on how it is designed, could also serve to control the speed of traffic north and
southbound through the parking lot. They will also introduce speed bumps in the parking lot.
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 15 of 22
Mr. Fink
stated they are going to concentrate efforts on that sidewalk area between University
and the building. It occurs to him they could probably use a little extra width. It is shown as a 6-
foot wide sidewalk now, and he is going to see if they can go to a 7-foot sidewalk and introduce
bollard lighting along the length of that sidewalk for security and aesthetic purposes.
Mr. Fink
stated as to the landscaping, he thinks the staff report suggests some specific
plantings. Their landscape plan needs to be revised to incorporate many of those landscape
specifications, and that will be part of their revised plans that they do.
Mr. Fink
stated the City engineering department would also like them look at the same issue
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with respect to snowplows on 60 as it might happen on the south end at 57. When they are
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still plowing 57 and start to enter onto their private property, what then? Is there a way to turn
around, is there signage designation, what is the program for that? They will be working with
City engineering and staff to come up with a viable solution there.
Mr. Fink
stated as to title issues, he received an update today from their surveyor they still do
not have any response back from the examiner of titles with respect to the MnDOT turnback,
etc. They expect to hear something within the next 10-14 days. They do have a combination of
Torrens and abstract properties within this development. They need to decide how to deal with
that. Whether they make them all registered title or live with some combination thereof. This
property will need to be platted. On the preliminary plat they will have the vacated areas
eliminated but will also reestablish new easements for the utilities, drainage, etc. They will also
need to address reciprocal cross easements between different phases which will be different
platted lots and some joint maintenance agreements. They intend for this property to be all one
congruent operating development and intend for it to have all one ownership. It would be nice
to say all one lender. However, they have been around the block enough times to know that
you cannot predict that will happen. They want to make sure they have flexibility in the
development to go forward.
Mr. Fink
stated they will have the preliminary plat, the final plat which will describe the three
separate lots and three separate phases of the development, and then they will have a
negotiated agreement with the HRA with respect to buying the land from the HRA and the
requirements they will have with respect to the acquisition, and then of course the development
agreement with the City.
Mr. Fink
stated they have read the staff’s report, they have read and understand the 14
stipulations and find them reasonable and acceptable.
Vice-Chair Oquist
asked, if he understands it, the north building will be constructed first and
they are doing it in phases?
Mr. Fink
replied, correct.
Vice-Chair Oquist
asked, as to the property that is not developed, will they be maintaining that
with grass, etc.?
Mr. Fink
replied, that will have to be maintained. Part of this is going to be addressed with the
agreement they have with the HRA. They have been working with the HRA’s attorney, Jim
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 16 of 22
Casserly and have been looking a variety of questions similar to those, like, what if they do not
go to the second phase, what if they do not go to the third phase. Things like that. The option
of taking the land back.
Vice-Chair Oquist
asked will they be buying the property in stages as well from the HRA? In
other words, for phase one they will buy that property/land, and then when they go onto phase
two, then they will buy that property or are they going to buy the whole thing at one time?
Mr. Fink
replied, the hard thing about answering that question is they do not have their
agreement finalized with the HRA. They have a Letter of Understanding with the HRA to give
them the kind of protection they will not sell the property out from under them. However, the
details of an acquisition or purchase agreement have not been negotiated yet. He is not saying
that would not be the case. Very likely they will end up purchasing the entire eight acres with
certain stipulations for timing of the development as it proceeds.
Vice-Chair Oquist
stated and if they actually just purchased the first phase then the HRA would
be responsible to maintain the rest of the property until they came in and did the other phases.
Mr. Fink
replied, if they own it they will maintain it.
Commissioner Saba
asked, relative to the green space, the recreation area, that is not
included in the first phase. Will there be some green space, any kind of recreational area there
for the first phase? That other phase may not be developed for two, three, four years down the
line. It would be nice to have some sort of green space there for the other residents.
Mr. Fink
replied, he agrees. They have not designed or proposed any other outdoor amenity
that would be dedicated to the first phase which would then go away when the second phase
gets built. Of course there would be all that open land area beyond it but, in respect to
Commissioner Saba’s question, he would like to take that idea back to their design team and
introduce that idea if there is something they could or should be doing that benefits the first
phase.
Commissioner Saba
stated, yes, it would be nice to have something there.
Commissioner Solberg
stated he is trying to envision the 7-foot fence and it is intended to be
on the entire eastern border of the property.
Mr. Fink
presented some photographs of fencing products.
Commissioner Solberg
asked, if it is supposed to be the entire length of the property and there
is no access for the residents in the apartment, they are just going to have to walk the entire
length? Will there only be a way to get out to the street on the two ends?
Mr. Fink
replied, the privacy fence is intended to be along the entire eastern property line, it
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would break only where 60 Street is, if that remains open, and then it would be continuous to
the end of the property. The neighborhood group was quite unanimous about not having any
sort of gates or openings and even the slots themselves were to be solid without any
opportunity to view through the slots of the fence. However, they did like the decorative top
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 17 of 22
rails. He did suggest that when the fence is installed, it be installed staggered. It runs 40 feet at
one length and then steps out or back a couple of feet and then 40 feet and back and forth,
back and forth. It gives it a better visual appearance as well as if any of it begins to tip one way
or another for whatever reason, it is not as evident when you have it staggered like that.
Commissioner Solberg
stated he thinks the staggering is a good idea as a long vinyl fence
would not be real attractive for the property or the people having to look at it across the street.
Mr. Fink
stated also the architect introduced the idea of where the fence offsets, there is an
opportunity to do some planting and some grass until the next offset. He and staff had a long
discussion earlier about the position of that fence and, indeed, the neighborhood is very curious
as to if the fence will be on their property, some on the neighbors, how does that really get
placed? That is another question they will work out with staff to determine what is best. In
general it is safe to say it will be on the property line except for where it staggers, it will probably
come back onto our property and then back to the property line.
Commissioner Solberg
stated also he likes Mr. Fink’s observations about the color choices of
the exterior of the building. While it is a very contemporary look and he thinks it looks nice, he
does not know how well it blends to the existing area. Also, he is glad Mr. Fink talked about that
horizontal look because it looked like the one material was like wood or something that is going
to be metallic or something. He asked whether there is going to be any use of brick? What he
kind of worries about are materials that are going to fray, peel, look shabby 6 to 10 years down
the line.
Mr. Fink
stated when they saw the submitted exterior rendition from their architect it was at
such a late date to the planning commission submittal deadline, and they did not have an
opportunity to go back and say, wait, we are not sure we love these colors. They basically had
to grab it and go. He presented samples of the EFIS product. It is a very durable exterior finish.
They looked at some blues, some darker colors, and some terra cotta. They can soften up the
red and there are several different shades of beige instead of the white.
Mr. Fink
stated they also concentrated their discussion about what he calls the ground level, the
wainscoting from the grass on up where you get irrigation spray, grass, lawnmowers, and to
protect. They are talking about using some sort of stone, cultured stone, or masonry type look
that would complement the rest of the build but be even more durable. That sample product he
brought along is similar to what they may end up selecting. That particular product happens to
be milled from actual stone, cut, and ready for installation. They also have a product that is a
cultured stone which is just as durable and a different price line. They see that happening on
the foundation level of the building.
Commissioner Solberg
stated he likes that, it’s a nice touch. Also, in terms of the things they
are offering for the price point they have and the income level gives him a little more comfort in
terms of bringing in a very nice structure with good things to offer for the folks that will be living
there. It is something that is going to benefit Fridley in terms of elevating that look along that
corridor. He likes the fact they are willing to meet and listen to the concerns of the
neighborhood as well.
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 18 of 22
Commissioner Velin
asked whether any of the units will be for sale or is this strictly rental
property?
Mr. Fink
replied, strictly rental.
Mr. Hickok
stated as to building materials on site during construction and this is unsolicited by
the developer but he will tell the Commission that the City’s building official said that when this
developer’s company built the building at Mississippi and Old Central, it was the cleanest
building site they had seen for residential structure ever. The building official was very
complimentary about every time he visited that site on how clean and organized it was.
Muriel Sharpe,
5924 Fifth Street NE, stated she is very pleased they are going to do an
ornamental fence along University Avenue. She understands why some of the neighbors may
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have really emphasized the need to close 60 Avenue at that point because she knows what it
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is like to get out onto 61, particularly in picking up kids from middle school, it can be a real
thst
headache. She can see that people will take the shortcut out of the development, up 60 to 61
Avenue, and try and go off from there because it is going to be another avenue. With this
development bringing in 200 or more cars in area, it could bring a lot of traffic through their
neighborhood which is a quiet residential area with kids, etc.
Ms. Sharpe
stated when Ms. Stromberg told her this is the company that built Landmark, she
drove by it yesterday and today and looked at it and she could live with that. It is real tasteful,
real appropriate for their community. The look of the proposed development is very urban, and
she does not think of Fridley as being an urban community. She likes its suburban status. It is
kind of offputting when it is just going straight across. The look of the building now to her looks
like an institution, a hospital, or a company rather than a residential building. Also, when you
start to do more than two kinds of surfaces, it gets a little busy looking. As to stucco, they have
apartment buildings in Fridley that have stucco from the 1950’s, and she does not think the
urban look with the stucco is a good combination.
Kurt Swanson
, 6010 Fifth Street NE, stated regarding the long white fence not being very
appealing. He does know for a fact the vinyl comes in various colors and maybe a toned down
color such as a tan or a green might be an option the neighbors would appreciate that would
make it not so stark.
Commissioner Sielaff
asked about the snow removal. They are talking about a pretty long
parking lot area here. Where is all the snow going to go?
Mr. Fink
replied, they believe that the central park area they have designed as green space will
be adequate to accommodate quite a bit of snow storage. The exact volume of that he does not
know yet. They would also say that if it is insufficient to accommodate all the snow storage they
need, they are prepared to truck it offsite.
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Vice-Chair Oquist
asked, regarding 60Avenue, if that were to be closed down, then do we
have to turn that into a cul de sac so that the emergency vehicles can have access because
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there is one property that is on the southwest corner that has their garage facing 60.
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 19 of 22
Mr. Hickok
replied, those details are being worked out. If that stub street were to stay but to be
closed to this development, yes, there would have to be a way of getting the truck turned around
for snow plowing, etc. That is where the engineers and the developer have been looking at the
roundabout as one possibility. Also, it would allow the truck to go around that, come back out,
and take care of the maintenance on that short segment of street. An alternative like that would
need to be considered because that short stub street would be a difficult one to get a truck
turned around on otherwise.
Vice-Chair Oquist
stated it is almost like they would move that garage and then just shut down
the whole street, but they would not want to do that.
MOTION
by Commissioner Solberg to close the public hearings on Item Nos. 2, 3, and 4.
Seconded by Commissioner Saba.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY AND THE PUBLIC HEARINGS WERE CLOSED AT 8:42 P.M.
MOTION
by Commissioner Sielaff approving a Street and Alley Vacation, SAV #14-01, by
Trident Development, LLC and the City of Fridley's Housing and Redevelopment Authority, to
allow for the redevelopment of the Gateway NE properties, which are generally located along
the University Avenue Service Drive, east of University Avenue NE, from 58th Avenue NE to
61st Avenue NE. The street proposed to be vacated is a portion of 60th Avenue NE from the
University Avenue Service Drive to the alley on the east side of the subject parcels. The alley
proposed to be vacated is located to the east of the subject parcels and south of vacated 59th
Avenue NE. Legal descriptions of properties involved in the project are on file at Fridley City
Hall.
Seconded by Commissioner Saba.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MOTION
by Commissioner Solberg approving an S-2, Redevelopment District Master Plan, MP
#14-01, by Trident Development, LLC, to allow for the development of the Gateway NE
properties, with the construction of three (3) new multi-family residential buildings, generally
located along the University Avenue Service Drive, east of University Avenue NE, from 58th
Avenue NE to 61st Avenue NE. Legal descriptions of properties involved in the project are on
file at Fridley City Hall with the following stipulations:
1. The property shall be developed in accordance with the master site plan,
submitted by hma Architects, dated _______.
2. The building shall be developed in accordance with the architectural exterior
elevations sheets, submitted by hma Architects, dated _______.
3. The petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
4. The petitioner shall meet all Building code, Fire code, and ADA requirements.
5. The petitioner shall ensure that the any signage meet code requirements and
shall obtain a separate sign permit prior to installation.
6. Landscape plan to be reviewed and approved by City Staff prior to issuance of
building permit.
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 20 of 22
7. A buffer between the residential properties to the east and the proposed project,
through the use of a fence, landscaping or a combination of both shall be
reviewed and approved by City staff prior to issuance of a building permit. The
petitioner shall install said buffer at the same time Building #1 is constructed.
8. Replacement of chain link fence along the Mn/DOT right-of-way will be
incorporated as part of this project. The fence design and installation shall be
agreed upon and approved by Mn/DOT, the City’s HRA, the City and the
Developer and said agreement shall be in place prior to issuance of a building
permit for Building #1.
9. City engineering staff to review and approve grading, drainage and utility plans
prior to issuance of building permits.
10. The petitioner shall pay all water and sewer connection fees prior to issuance of
a building permit.
11. All lighting in the development shall be shielded and downcast. Lighting shall be
provided through free-standing lighting that adequately illuminates the sidewalk.
12. All crosswalks shall be installed using a colorized pavement pattern when
connecting the sidewalk on each side of a driveway. All connections shall be
accessible.
13. If the square footage of the footprint of any of the buildings proposed changes by
more than 10 percent at that phase of the development, an S-2 master plan and
TOD master plan amendment shall be required.
14. A Development Agreement outlining the Developer’s obligation to install utilities,
etc., will be prepared by the City and shall be signed by the Petitioner prior to
issuance of a building permit for Building #1.
Seconded by Commissioner Sielaff.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MOTION
by Commissioner Velin approving a Transit Oriented District (TOD) Master Plan, TOD
#14-01, by Trident Development, LLC, to allow for the development of the Gateway NE
properties, with the construction of three (3) new multi-family residential buildings, generally
located along the University Avenue Service Drive, east of University Avenue NE, from 58th
Avenue NE to 61st Avenue NE. Legal descriptions of properties involved in the project are on
file at Fridley City Hall with the following stipulations:
1. The property shall be developed in accordance with the master site plan, submitted by
hma Architects, dated _______.
2. The building shall be developed in accordance with the architectural exterior
elevations sheets, submitted by hma Architects, dated _______.
3. The petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
4. The petitioner shall meet all Building code, Fire code, and ADA requirements.
5. The petitioner shall ensure that the any signage meet code requirements and
shall obtain a separate sign permit prior to installation.
6. Landscape plan to be reviewed and approved by City Staff prior to issuance of
building permit.
7. A buffer between the residential properties to the east and the proposed project,
through the use of a fence, landscaping or a combination of both shall be
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 21 of 22
reviewed and approved by City staff prior to issuance of a building permit. The
petitioner shall install said buffer at the same time Building #1 is constructed.
8. Replacement of chain link fence along the Mn/DOT right-of-way will be
incorporated as part of this project. The fence design and installation shall be
agreed upon and approved by Mn/DOT, the City’s HRA, the City and the
Developer and said agreement shall be in place prior to issuance of a building
permit for Building #1.
9. City engineering staff to review and approve grading, drainage and utility plans
prior to issuance of building permits.
10. The petitioner shall pay all water and sewer connection fees prior to issuance of
a building permit.
11. All lighting in the development shall be shielded and downcast. Lighting shall be
provided through free-standing lighting that adequately illuminates the sidewalk.
12. All crosswalks shall be installed using a colorized pavement pattern when
connecting the sidewalk on each side of a driveway. All connections shall be
accessible.
13. If the square footage of the footprint of any of the buildings proposed changes by
more than 10 percent at that phase of the development, an S-2 master plan and
TOD master plan amendment shall be required.
14. A Development Agreement outlining the Developer’s obligation to install utilities,
etc., will be prepared by the City and shall be signed by the Petitioner prior to
issuance of a building permit for Building #1.
Seconded by Commissioner Solberg.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5. Receive the Minutes of the December 5, 2013, Housing and Redevelopment
Authority Commission Meeting.
MOTION
by Commissioner Sielaff to receive the Minutes. Seconded by Commissioner Saba.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Ms. Stromberg
stated that she just found out this morning that we will have a new
representative from the Environmental Energy and Quality Commission starting next month.
So, she would like to thank Jack Velin for his years of service to the Planning Commission and
wish him well.
ADJOURN
MOTION
by Commissioner Solberg adjourning the meeting. Seconded by Commissioner Saba
Planning Commission
January 15, 2014
Page 22 of 22
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, VICE-CHAIR OQUIST DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY AND THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:46 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise M. Johnson
Recording Secretary