Cowan Elementary School Conditional Use Permit Amendment and Site Plan Approval

Dissent: One commissioner voiced ongoing concerns about the absence of a right-turn lane but did not vote against the overall motion.

Moved by Commissioner Rathy [1:00] · Seconded by Commissioner Weise [1:00]

The Planning Commission reviewed a request for a conditional use permit amendment and site plan approval for Cowan Elementary School. The project involves expanding the north parking lot, adding a bus staging area, constructing primary and smaller building additions, and making internal security and facility improvements. The project is phased through August 2028. Key discussions included traffic flow solutions, particularly the elimination of one South Avenue driveway to increase queuing length, the school's R1 residential zoning requiring a CUP, and staff recommendations to combine four existing properties into one and modify tree species and fencing. ADA compliance for sidewalks was also raised. Ramsey County denied a requested right-turn lane on South Avenue. Staff found the plans met all required criteria subject to numerous conditions, including final plan reviews by staff, engineer, and watershed district, and a pre-construction meeting.

Zoning Ordinance Text Amendments

Moved by Commissioner Muick [1:23] · Seconded by Commissioner Gabboy [1:23]

The commission reviewed proposed amendments to the zoning code, a continuation from an earlier meeting. These amendments clarify what improvements are not considered encroachments in yard setbacks and add language for expanding existing structures with non-conforming setbacks. Key changes since the last meeting included adding the word 'permanent' to pergola descriptions, removing recreational equipment setbacks, incorporating NFPA 110, refining language for 'covered but open porches,' and extending non-conforming setback maintenance to front yards. A critical discussion revolved around ensuring the ordinance is reviewed by the city's Code Enforcement officer, McKenzie, before it proceeds to the City Council, to preempt potential enforcement issues.

Subdivision Ordinance Text Amendments

Moved by Commissioner Rathy [1:33] · Seconded by Commissioner Weise [1:33]

The Planning Commission considered an update to the city's subdivision ordinance, carrying over from a previous meeting. This comprehensive update involves a complete repeal and replacement of Chapter 153 of the city code, resulting in an ordinance three times its original length. The revisions were primarily driven by the need for legal compatibility with recent state court findings regarding park dedication requirements and significant input from the city engineer to address previously lacking parts of the code. The city attorney confirmed that the updated language for park dedication meets state requirements. The new code is designed to better prepare the city for potential major subdivisions. No public comments were received during the public hearing.