2019.01.15 Planning Commission - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Special Use Permit & Variances – Irondale High School Planning Commission Report; 1-15-19 Page 10 (cont) 1. That the establishment, maintenance, or operations of the special use will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, morals, comfort or general welfare. Applicant Comments: The project will not be detrimental to the surrounding neighborhood. The proposed project is creating more space for the education of the growing community and improving the safety and security of students, faculty, and the community. STAFF COMMENTS: Staff finds this criterion to be met with conditions. The property has been used as a school for years and the proposed expansions will serve the community and its youth for years to come. The biggest operational concern voiced by neighbors is on-street parking during large events, and there is unfortunately no easy (on-site) fix to that existing problem. For their part, the School has established off-site shared parking arrangements for large events, and free shuttles take attendees to and from such sites. As a condition of approval, that practice shall continue and be supplemented as needed to accommodate parking demands during large-scale events. 2. That the special use will not be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other property in the immediate vicinity for the purposes already permitted, nor substantially diminish and impair property values within the neighborhood. Applicant Comments: The project will not adversely affect the surrounding properties. The project will enhance the educational experience of the school and create better spaces that can possibly be used for community functions. The building additions are well within the required building setbacks. The additions include more parking within the site than there currently is for the growing school, which will lessen off-site parking. STAFF COMMENTS: Staff finds this criterion to be met. The proposed site work is consistent with what is already occurring on the property, and the proposed improvements should have a positive impact on property values in the neighborhood. 3. That the establishment of the special use will not impede the normal and orderly development and improvement of the surrounding property for uses permitted in the district. Applicant Comments: The additions and improvements will not change the uses of any neighboring properties. Working with the City of New Brighton and Ramsey County Parks Department the old parking lot at the end of 25th Street NW currently maintained by the City and on Ramsey County property will be removed for a new parking lot mostly on School property. The School District and the County are currently working on a Joint Powers Agreement granting the School permission to build and access the new parking lot and provide the County Park spots to park. Ramsey County Parks may extend trail access off the end of the parking lot someday to connect the High School and Middle School.