The most discussion centered on a proposed residential development on Spring Creek Drive, put forward by PY Homes. The plan aims to develop a 49-lot single-family subdivision on the southwest edge of Chaska, bordering the city of Carver. This area is currently zoned as an open district. The proposal involves a density of 3.1 dwelling units per net acre, which falls within the guidelines of two to five units per acre designated for low-density residential development.

The commission reviewed an aerial exhibit of the property, primarily agricultural with some residential use and outbuildings. The plan includes two access points on Spring Creek Drive, aligning with Birch Street to the south and another to the west. However, this layout raised concerns among residents and commission members about traffic implications and safety.

Karen Mosow, a resident, voiced her worries about traffic safety on Spring Creek Drive, stating, “we have a police sign that says hey your speed is thus and such already trying to control the speed.” She suggested that the second access point would exacerbate traffic issues, particularly for families with small children. Another resident, Jackie Storeall, preferred an earlier design iteration that had the houses’ backs facing Spring Creek.

The commission acknowledged these concerns and discussed the potential for a cul-de-sac design to mitigate traffic issues and provide a safer environment for families. The necessity of including park space within the development was also emphasized, especially since the nearest park is located over half a mile away and across a busy county road. Haley Dy, representing the developers, acknowledged the residents’ concerns and suggested that a park should be included in the plans.

Utility access was another significant topic of discussion, as current utility connections are not readily available. Water lines exist to the north near Rivertown Heights, while sewer lines are located to the east. Future developments, such as High Point Vistas, are expected to extend utilities, but the timeline for that project remains uncertain. If the developer opts not to wait for High Point Vistas, they would need to extend utilities from the existing points, incurring additional costs.

The commission also addressed the lack of nearby park facilities, noting that the proposed site is isolated from existing parks. A precedent for requiring additional recreational space was cited from a previous townhome development in Clover Ridge, which had conditions for providing a Tot Lot. The commission emphasized the importance of exploring more diverse housing products within the development, such as townhomes or villas, to provide varied housing options and price points.

During the public hearing, residents expressed concerns about the density of the proposed development, traffic safety, and the potential impact on community cohesion. Kevin Gillick, a resident from Carver, emphasized the importance of continued communication between the two cities and highlighted the need for clarity on the development plans.

The discussion also included who would have responsibility for maintaining Spring Creek Drive, especially since it straddles the border between Chaska and Carver. It was acknowledged that both cities needed to work together to ensure the safety and functionality of the road infrastructure, especially regarding signage and traffic control measures.

Ultimately, a motion was made to recommend approval of the concept plan, subject to 24 conditions. This included the removal of the second access point and the inclusion of a park or playground within the development. The motion received a second and was approved unanimously.

The commission also reviewed other agenda items, including a conditional use permit request from River Valley Groomers for a dog grooming business on Second Street East in downtown Chaska. The business, which will occupy one of three tenant spaces within a multi-tenant building, received unanimous approval following a public hearing where no objections were raised.