06:35The meeting began with a focus on the variance request from Valley Sun Valley Properties LLC, intending to build twin homes on vacant lots at 13 and Liberty Street. John Nisley, the city planner, presented the request to deviate from the required 30-foot setback to a 20-foot setback in the R3 medium-density residential zoning district. The properties, situated within the Minnesota River Valley subdivision, face unique drainage challenges due to a steep slope at the rear, with a gradient of approximately 29%. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the proposed drainage system, referencing past flooding issues in the area.

30:31Neighbors expressed concerns about water pooling and drainage problems linked to previous developments. The applicant’s representative, Scott Dreman, detailed the drainage setup, stating that tile systems had been installed to direct water towards the municipal storm sewer. Despite assurances, discussions continued regarding whether these measures would sufficiently prevent water from impacting neighboring properties.

The council meeting also addressed broader drainage issues affecting the area. Residents Lanne Liner and Elaine Pollson shared personal experiences of water accumulation and flooding in their backyards, reportedly worsened by construction activities and the removal of trees on nearby hillsides. Liner advocated for a more effective drainage system, while Pollson emphasized the severity of the flooding, likening the situation to “an Olympic swimming pool” between properties.

28:31A representative from the construction team explained that site grading had been adjusted to direct water away from residential properties, although concerns remained about the effectiveness of these adjustments. The dialogue highlighted the historical context of drainage issues in the area, with some residents noting that water problems had intensified following recent developments.

13:52In response to these concerns, the city council and planning commission members deliberated on the potential impact of the variance request on the neighborhood’s character and water management. The commission emphasized the need for the applicant to demonstrate that all criteria for the variance were met, including addressing drainage issues comprehensively.

57:51Beyond the immediate drainage concerns, the meeting also focused on the preliminary plat for Highland Apartments, proposed by Keepers Incorporated. The property, located on North Highland Avenue, spans approximately 9.9 acres and is set to be divided into four lots. Staff recommended approval of the preliminary plat, contingent upon several conditions, including stormwater management and parkland dedication fees.

01:13:22Discussions about the Highland Apartments development included considerations of future street connections and traffic safety, particularly near a school. Concerns were raised about the lack of public hearings for preliminary plats, with a suggestion to review potential street layouts and land use designations carefully.

01:17:54The meeting also covered other development-related topics, such as the preliminary plat of Sarah Hills Fourth Edition, which aimed to create two residential lots. The council unanimously supported the motion to approve this plat, noting the long-standing intention to develop the site.

01:25:29Additionally, council members reviewed past decisions, including the approval of street right-of-way vacations and conditional use permits for various developments. Notably, a purchase agreement was authorized for a development in the airport industrial park, which would include constructing 29 lots with storage facilities and residential living quarters.

01:29:10The meeting concluded with brief discussions about statewide legislative efforts to increase housing density. While a proposed bill had stalled, concerns were voiced about its potential impact on grant opportunities and the applicability of urban-centric policies to rural areas.