2021.10.26 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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they would like this large structure in their front yard. He requested that the trees that are in place remain in place in order to minimize the view from his home. Jim Radamski, 548 Yankton College Lane, stated he has lived in his home for the past 32 years and was the closest residential structure to Global Academy. He believed Global Academy was a good neighbor and it was in the best interest that they be successful. He commented he did not object to the proposed plans and he appreciated how the seminary property had been repurposed. Mr. Vegan explained Mr. Radamski may support the project but noted Mr. Radamski would not have a large gymnasium in his front yard. Mr. Radamski indicated Global Academy was in his backyard and he believed they were good neighbors. He agreed that additional trees and screening could be planted between the school and the neighboring properties. Chair Nichols-Matkaiti understood the gym was being built to accommodate current student enrollment. She questioned if traffic for Global Academy would increase after the gym was constructed. Helen Fiske, representative for Global Academy, stated the school does not have an extracurricular program noting this was not part of the schools mission. She reported the gym was being added to allow for PE everyday for each student. She explained Global Academy loves being in the City of New Brighton. She noted the school was in the process of refinancing and due to low interest rates, the school could now afford to build a second gym, which it wanted to build originally, but could not afford at the time. She reported no athletic events or tournaments would be held at the school on the weekends after the gym is constructed. She indicated Global Academy was not interested in adding a high school and would continue to serve the community as a K through 8 school. She discussed the traffic concerns surrounding the school noting many parents have opted to drop their kids off/pick their kids up due to COVID. She indicated the proposed gym expansion would not impact parent traffic. She thanked the Commission for considering her request. Commissioner McQuillan asked if there were any other options for the gym location that would still meet site setbacks. Ms. Fiske explained she had looked at locating the gym on the other side of the building but noted she does not own the seminary apartment building. She commented for the flow of the building she would like the two gyms next to each other. Chair Nichols-Matkaiti questioned if the existing trees would remain in place. Ms. Fiske stated all of the trees along the boulevard trees would remain. Commissioner Biedenfeld inquired if there was an opportunity to plant additional trees on the site. Ms. Fiske noted the kindergartners planted an apple tree on the property last year. She anticipated additional trees could be planted on the other side of the building. Chair Nichols-Matkaiti asked if there were any other comments or questions via Zoom. Assistant Director of Community Assets and Development Gozola reported he had received a video link but noted this has not gone through IT and he would rather not open this. He 8