CCP 09-23-2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The applicant is requesting a Special Use Permit to permit construction of a playground at 835 2nd Avenue NW, St. John's the Baptist Church & School. The proposed improvement consists of a playground on the west end of the church/school, located in a green space on the east side of 2nd Avenue NW. The playground would be constructed in an area approximately 45' in width and 160' in length for a total square footage of nearly 7,200 SF. The equipment is commercial grade with an engineered wood chip base. O'Brien asked if staff recommended a fence to address a safety concern. Gundlach replied that the concern is safety since the park could appear as a public park after hours. Danger stated that a fence could also stop a potential car coming on to the playground incase of an accident. Baker supports a fence since the playground will be closely located to the street. Steve Amdorpher, a volunteer that is working on the project for St. John the Baptist Church, stated that they would like to use a green, natural barrier versus a fence. He stated that there are two potential issues with a fence. The first is a fence would potentially be used as screening for anyone trying to break into the property and secondly, they would like the playground to be open to the community and feel that a fence would inhibit an open feeling to the site. He stated that the potential of a vehicle coming onto the property would be very low, since there are several obstructions to help block oncoming traffic. He added that there has been much discussion at St John's regarding where to locate this playground and believe that this is the safest location. Schiferl asked if the existing trees would be removed. Amdorpher stated that the trees would be moved to a new location. Howard is concerned that children could potentially run out into traffic from between the parked cars on the street. Amdorpher stated the green barrier would be set up to make it difficult for children to run through it. Howard inquired if Public Safety reviewed the plans. Gundlach replied that no one in Public Safety has reviewed this application. Baker replied that he strongly feels that a barrier be put up and plantings are not enough. Amdorpher stated that they would put up a fence, if that is the recommendation. O'Brien stated that they may want to consider a low brick wall that runs in segments and that could be used as a bench. Amdorpher stated that a brick wall would not be financially feasible. Danger asked staff if the City Forester could offer a recommendation on if brush could hold back a child. Amdorpher stated that there may additional issues if a fence is added. Motion by O'Brien, second by Schiferl to CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. 5 ayes, 0 nays. MOTION APPROVED. • Motion by O'Brien, second by Danger to ADOPT THE ATTACHED RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SPECIAL USE PERMIT AND AMENDING THE GENERAL DEVELOPMENT