2016.03.15 Planning Packet Combined

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2  A gradual stair will connect the walkway to the landing surface. The walkways from the parking lot to the south and public sidewalk to the north remain unchanged.  Previous 36” – 42” shrub screen has been revised to a 36” evergreen shrub.  12 trees are proposed to be added to the site as opposed to the original 18. Additionally, the location of the trees have been pushed further east and west to make a clearer takeoff and landing approach. Six trees were removed from the plan as they could not fit within the allowed area.  The three benches have been removed and replaced with a picnic table.  The four, 32” bollard lights lining the walkway have been reduced to three (the plan notes 6 but only depicts 3).  The in ground aviation lights surrounding the perimeter of the pad have been eliminated.  Four, 24” x 24” limestone block landing indicators have been added – one on each side of the pad. Planning Director Gundlach explained the applicant’s original request was considered by the Planning Commission on June 16, 2015 and by the City Council on June 23, 2015. At the time of original request, there was no legislative process in place to allow helipads within the community. As such, the applicant applied for a Zoning Code Amendment, creating a Special Use Permit for helipads within the NBE, New Brighton Exchange zoning district. City staff and the City Attorney drafted the proposed special use language. The conditions of that special use were based upon the applicant’s needs and how to mitigate negative impacts to the public. These approvals are documented via Resolution 15-046 and Ordinance 835. Staff recommends approval of the amended Special Use Permit, as requested, and subject to the following conditions: 1) Compliance with the conditions of Resolution 15-046, except as otherwise revised herein. 2) Construction of the proposed helipad in compliance with the revised plans (Exhibit G) dated January 2016. Commissioner Danger asked if it was wise to eliminate the aviation lights. He believed these would be necessary for landing in the evening hours. Planning Director Gundlach deferred this question to the applicant. Kurt Chalmers, APi, explained the concrete pad originally had eight lights. He reported that four aviation lights would remain. He noted the helipad would only be used between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. He commented the helipad would not be used during the winter months for a night landing. Commissioner Deick questioned how effective the hedges would be now that the helipad has been raised up three feet. Mr. Chalmers explained the hedges would be maintained at 36 inches and would screen the helipad completely. He reported trees would also be planted surrounding the helipad to assist with screening. Motion by Commissioner Danger, seconded by Commissioner Deick to close the Public Hearing. Approved 4-0. Chairperson Howard asked how the Commission wanted to proceed. Commissioner Deick stated he was initially against the request. Commissioner Danger explained he was as well, however he understood the Council had the final say. He indicated he would vote to support the request given the fact the Council supported the matter. Chairperson Howard thanked staff for providing a thorough staff report for the Planning Commission and noted the helipad was a permitted use for this property.