2015.06.16 Packet Combined - Laserfiche WebLink

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The proposed Zoning Code Amendment would require a special use permit for a helipad use. Further, the use would only be permitted in the NBE, New Brighton Exchange zoning district, be allowed only on blocks with BI or B2 building types (office uses), and impose several setback standards from surrounding non -office uses and other helipads. The purpose of the conditions is to limit negative impacts to residential property (namely wind, noise, and dust) and to restrict other properties within the NBE zoning district from being able to apply for a helipad. These setback restrictions reflect the reality that the New Brighton Exchange redevelopment area is not able to support the wind, noise, and dust impacts of multiple at -grade helipads due to proximity to residential property, a specific intent to maximum density in the district, providing a pedestrian -friendly environment, and the proximity of park property. A draft Ordinance 835 is attached, which provide special use standards for helipads on blocks designated with BI and B2 building types (office). The main points of the proposed code amendment consist of. • Helipads would only be allowed as accessory uses to office buildings in New Brighton Exchange. • In order to request the special use permit the site would have to be at least four acres in size or be part of a planned development (PUD). • The site or planned development must abut interstates 35W or 694. • Landing pads must be reasonably screened from streets of minor arterial status or greater (Old Highway 8 NW). • Only 20 landings allowed per year. • No landings permitted between the hours of 7pm — 7am Monday thru Friday and no landings allowed on weekends or holidays. • Flight paths, helicopter type, and decibel level standards are imposed at the time of approval and those restrictions are based on characteristics of surrounding property, vegetated cover, topography, and proximity of residential uses. • All other permits are secured, such as FAA and MnDOT permits. • Additional flexibility to require conditions beyond those listed in the ordinance being every property is different with regard to building location, landscaping, and topography and the intent of the special use is to limit negative impacts. • Public hearing notification is given to property owners within 1,000' of the subject property, which is farther than the typical 350' notification radius. • Compliance with the general health, safety, and welfare standards of Section 8-130. A full analysis of how APi's proposal meets these standards is outlined in the Special Use Permit Analysis section below. Making the helipad use a specially permitted use, only when accessory to a principal use, is the best way to legislatively address APi's application. Additionally, the conditions that are proposed in Ordinance 835 likely won't result in further requests for helipads on other properties within New Brighton Exchange. Based on a lot of the sound analysis discussed below, allowing the proposed helipad will have significant wind, noise, and dust impacts in the area. However, these impacts are for very brief periods of time, happening less than two times per month. Prior to making a recommendation to City Council on the proposed request, it will be helpful to understand the public's concern about the wind, noise, and dust during the public hearing. To date, staff has received one inquiry but upon learning the details of the request the resident was not opposed. Noting this, and the fact