CCP 05-28-2013 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I Approved The applicant has proposed a proof of parking plan,which includes enough stalls to meet minimum parking standards for the proposed 15,937 SF addition. Planner Gundlach indicated the nature of Wolkerstorfer's business is chemical processing,painting and anodizing,which requires large pieces of fixed equipment such as large processing tanks. Because of this,the ratio of workers to the floor plan is much less than a typical manufacturing use. Therefore,the business's need for off-street parking is much less than one might expect, or the Zoning Code requires,based on the overall size of the building. The proposed addition will use this same floor place to worker ratio,with the applicant stating there is enough existing off-street parking stalls available to handle existing and proposed employee and visitor needs to the site. Planner Gundlach explained the site is located directly across the street from the approved school bus terminal of American Student Transportation at 401 1st Street SW. The bus terminal garnered much discussion based on the amount of traffic that would be produced by the site. The applicant was asked whether the proposed addition would produce additional truck traffic to the site. The property owner has indicated the proposed addition could result in two additional semi-truck trips per day, at the greatest. The Public Works Director has indicated this amount is negligible when compared to the amount of traffic on 1st Street SW already and a traffic analysis/study would not be necessary. Planner Gundlach noted that a 9,000 SF addition was approved in November of 2012. Because of reasons outlined in the applicant's narrative,that addition is not being built. This proposal,while different,will allow the company to meet the same needs as represented during the last land use application. Staff recommends approval of the Site Plan and Nonconforming Use Permit, subject to the following conditions: • The proposed improvements are built in accordance with the plans submitted and attached to the Planning Report dated 4/10/2013. • Implementation of the recommendations contained in the interoffice Engineering/Public Works memo dated 4/9/2013 and attached to the Planning Report. • The applicant enters into a Proof-of-Parking Declaration prior to the issuance of a building permit. • Construction of any of the proposed proof of parking stalls shall require a separate Site Plan and Rice Creek Watershed District approval. • The Landscape Plan is revised to ensure compliance with the 50%deciduous/50%coniferous requirement as outlined in the Planning Report. • The proposed expanded curb-cut most westerly at 1st Street SW is revised to not exceed 36' in width in accordance with Zoning Code Section 11-020(8)(J). Commissioner Danger questioned if enough land was available for an additional 120 parking spaces if the building were repurposed in the future. Planner Gundlach commented proof of parking was available and was on record with the City. Commissioner McPherson inquired if the back loading dock would be shut down during construction. Joseph Wolkerstorfer,Wolkerstorfer Co., explained the back dock would have limited access. He commented the proposed addition would assist with getting semi-trucks in and out of the site more easily. Chairperson Howard questioned the number of employees on site. Mr.Wolkerstorfer stated there were currently 35 full- time employees and noted 10-15 may be added in the future. Commissioner McPherson asked if the 36-foot curb cut would allow for semi-trucks to maneuver in and through the site. Planner Gundlach understood the reduction would reduce mobility but commented she had presented this requirement to the applicant and has heard no objections. Mr.Wolkerstorfer stated the larger curb cut would benefit traffic flow,but he could function with the 36-foot opening. Motion by Commissioner Banker, seconded by Commissioner Shardlow to close the Public Hearing. Approved 7-0. Motion by Commissioner Shardlow, seconded by Commissioner Meyers,to approve staff recommendation. 3