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pc-agenda-nov-23-20       REGULAR MEETING AGENDA    This meeting will be held via Webex in accordance with the local emergency declaration made by the  City under Minn. Stat. § 12.37. The public may monitor this meeting by watching on Comcast cable  channel 16, by streaming on CCXmedia.org, or by calling 1‐415‐655‐0001 and entering the meeting  code 133 694 1678.    Additional information about monitoring electronic meetings is available on the City website. For  technical assistance, please contact the City at 763‐593‐8007 or webexsupport@goldenvalleymn.gov.  If you incur costs to call into the meeting, you may submit the costs to the City for reimbursement  consideration.      1. Call to Order    2. Approval of Agenda    3. Approval of Minutes  November 9, 2020, Regular Planning Commission Meeting    4. Discussion – Modifying the Moderate Density Residential (R‐2) Zoning District to Allow Rowhouses    5. Discussion – 2020 Land Use/Zoning Study – Commercial Uses    6. Discussion – Report on R‐3 Density Bonuses      – End of Televised Portion of Meeting –  To listen to this portion, please call 1‐415‐655‐0001 and enter meeting access code 133 694 1678.      7. Council Liaison Report    8. Reports on Board of Zoning Appeals and Other Meetings    9. Other Business    10. Adjournment  November 23, 2020 – 7 pm         REGULAR MEETING MINUTES    This meeting was held via Webex in accordance with the local emergency declaration made by  the City under Minn. Stat. § 12.37. In accordance with that declaration, beginning on March 16,  2020, all Planning Commission meetings held during the emergency were conducted  electronically. The City used Webex to conduct this meeting and members of the public were  able to monitor the meetings by watching it on Comcast cable channel 16, by streaming it on  CCXmedia.org, or by dialing in to the public call‐in line.     1. Call to Order  The meeting was called to order at 7:00 by Chair Blum.    Roll Call  Commissioners present: Rich Baker, Ron Blum, Adam Brookins, Andy Johnson, Noah Orloff, Ryan  Sadeghi, Chuck Segelbaum  Commissioners absent:   Lauren Pockl  Staff present:    Jason Zimmerman – Planning Manager, Myles Campbell – Planner   Council Liaison present: Gillian Rosenquist    2. Approval of Agenda  Chair Blum asked for a motion to approve the agenda.  MOTION made by Commissioner Segelbaum, seconded by Commissioner Brookins, to approve the  agenda of November 9, 2020. Staff called a roll call vote and the motion carried unanimously.    3. Approval of Minutes  Chair Blum asked for a motion to approve the minutes from October 26, 2020.  Commissioner Baker made a correction on language for both AOWL motions.   MOTION made by Commissioner Baker, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to approve minutes  after corrections are made. Staff called a roll call vote and the motion carried unanimously.    4. Informal Public Hearing – Zoning Map Amendments – Rezoning of Properties to Achieve  Conformance with the 2040 Comprehensive Plan  Applicant: City of Golden Valley  Addresses: 701, 601 Lilac Dr N; 5806, 5804, 5730 Olson Memorial Hwy; PID 3311821240029    Jason Zimmerman, Planning Manager, started the presentation by restating the need to  rezone so the City is in compliance with the 2040 Comp Plan and Future Land Use Map. Five of  the six properties are owned by Tennant and one is a privately‐owned single‐family property.  Zimmerman displayed the Future Land Use Map as well as the existing Zoning Map for location  November 9, 2020 – 7 pm    City of Golden Valley    Planning Commission Regular Meeting  November 9, 2020 – 7 pm       2  clarity. Zimmerman gave a brief history of the properties being guided for Industrial Use, this  was adopted in 2010. Tennant Companies created a PUD in 2014 to unify the properties into  one campus. The Industrial land use designation across the area was continued into 2040  Comprehensive Plan. Zimmerman displayed a graph detailing each property, their current  zoning, and the proposed zoning.   Tennant has been consulted regarding the rezoning and is comfortable moving forward with an  Industrial designation. Industrial zoning would still allow for office development in addition to  more general manufacturing uses.  Zimmerman reminded the Commission that state statute requires all zoning designations to be  consistent with the land uses identified in the Comp Plan within nine months of adoption.  Should the City choose not to rezone any of these properties, the Future Land Use Map would  need to be amended with the Met Council.    Recommendation  Following the provisions of State statute (sec. 473.858, subd. 1) and the requirements of the  Metropolitan Council with respect to comprehensive planning, staff recommends:   Rezoning the 6 identified properties to Industrial zoning    Discussion started regarding developments near Tennant, specifically Damascus Way.    Chair Blum opened the public hearing at 7:12pm.  No calls.    Commissioner Johnson asked for clarification, he understood there to be two private  properties included in this rezoning, one is occupied and the other isn’t. He asked if those units  would remain R‐1 with regular restrictions and asked for clarification on the Damascus Way  property zoning. Zimmerman stated that there are two R‐1 properties but they will both be  rezoned Industrial. One property is vacated and will likely be demolished, the second home is  occupied and the homeowner will retain their rights to maintain that as a single‐family  property. Damascus Way was zoned R‐3 and that will continue.     Chair Blum closed the public hearing at 7:16pm.    MOTION by Commissioner Baker, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to recommend  rezoning the six properties, as discussed in the memo, to achieve conformance with the 2040  Comprehensive Plan.   Staff called a roll call vote, Segelbaum abstained, and the motion passed.    5. Review of 2021‐2030 CIP – Presentation by Sue Virnig, City Finance Director    Jason Zimmerman, Planning Manager, stated that in its by‐laws, the Planning Commission is  charged with reviewing “major public capital improvement plans against the policy and goals  City of Golden Valley    Planning Commission Regular Meeting  November 9, 2020 – 7 pm       3  stated in the Comprehensive Plan.” Each year, the Commission is asked to review and adopt  findings with respect to the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Zimmerman gave a  presentation on what the CIP is, what projects it contains, and the planned expenditures of the  CIP that help advance the goals of the Comp Plan. The 2021‐2030 CIP is divided into nine  sections and elements of four of those sections can be related to the goals of the CIP. These  four sections are: Park Improvements, Storm Water, Water & Sanitary Sewer, and Streets. The  presentation went into greater detail on each section, the relevant projects for each section,  and the related Comp Plan goal.     Recommendation  Adopt a finding that the 2021‐2030 Capital Improvement Program is consistent with the goals  and objectives of Golden Valley’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.    Sue Virnig, City Finance Director, told the Commission that the CIP went before City Council in  September 2020 and the final document will be considered on December 1st. Virnig gave a  more in‐depth explanation on the CIP, the budget, and how it relates to the Comp Plan.  Commissioner Segelbaum asked where the tennis court was being constructed as that seemed  to be a large line item. Virnig responded that the possible location is east of highway 100. Pickle  Ball has had a rise in popularity and there’s a demand in Golden Valley. Commissioner Johnson  asked the difference between the “PMP with Sanitary Sewer” line item and the stand alone  “streets” line item.  Virnig responded that PMP has different parts in addition to the road, the  other infrastructure items are included in their budget line items. Commissioner Baker  commented that the specifics in expenditures for parks are not listed and asked if some items  are “to be determined”. Virnig responded that is mostly true, however if a description is listed  it tells when a particular park will be worked on however that exact timeline is unknown. Virnig  added that the CIP is a working document. Johnson asked about the community garden line  item and why it might take as long as projected. Virnig responded that most of it will be done  on city property, so most of the timing is due to getting water and fencing in that area. Council  Member Rosenquist added that the initial line item was made in March, before the effects of  COVID were really known. Commissioner Sadeghi asked how line items are estimated and if  inflation is factored in. Virnig stated numbers are pretty solid for the next three years, interest  rates have a play in the future but that is why the CIP is revisited every year.     MOTION by Commissioner Brookins, seconded by Commissioner Segelbaum, to adopt the findings  that the 2021‐2030 CIP is consistent with the goals and objectives of Golden Valley’s 2040  Comprehensive Plan.  Staff took a roll call vote and the motion passed unanimously.     Televised portion of the meeting concluded at 7:38pm    6. Council Liaison Report   City of Golden Valley    Planning Commission Regular Meeting  November 9, 2020 – 7 pm       4  Council Member Rosenquist provided an update on a discussion around speed limits within the city  as communities may now set a speed limit of 20 or 25 miles per hour. This does not include County  roads or highways. She reported that the City Council will be considering the budget in December as  well as revisions to the Crime Free and Disorderly Conduct ordinances. Finally, MnDOT is looking to  construct a trail along the south side of Olson Memorial Highway between Winnetka Ave and  Glenwood Ave.    7. Reports on Board of Zoning Appeals and other Meetings  None    8. Other Business  None    9. Adjournment  MOTION by Commissioner Segelbaum to adjourn, seconded by Commissioner Brookins, and  approved unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 7:50 pm.                                                                                                            ________________________________                                                                                                  Adam Brookins, Secretary  ________________________________  Amie Kolesar, Planning Assistant    1      Date:  November 23, 2020  To:  Golden Valley Planning Commission  From:  Jason Zimmerman, Planning Manager  Subject:    Discussion – Modifying the Moderate Density Residential (R‐2) Zoning District to  Allow Rowhouses      Summary  Staff will present information and lead a discussion around the potential for amending the R‐2  zoning district to allow for rowhouses.    Background  At its September 29 meeting, the Planning Commission had an initial discussion around the  possibility of expanding the types of housing allowed in the Moderate Density Residential (R‐2)  Zoning District to include rowhouses. Staff presented zoning regulations from a few local  communities that allow a similar house type, and Commissioners expressed support for  considering the use if the appropriate restrictions around lot area, setbacks, and height could be  addressed.    Staff is now providing examples of similar regulations from two other major cities: Cincinnati and  Denver. In addition, attached is a selection from a 1962 American Planning Association report on  Row Houses for some historical perspective on this type of housing.    Analysis  After looking at the regulations from other cities and studying Golden Valley’s current zoning for  the R‐2 zoning district, staff has outlined potential rowhouse regulations below that address a  number of areas of design.    Density – In order to remain in the target density range approved within the 2040  Comprehensive Plan, any structure with multiple attached units would need to target  approximately 5,500 square feet per unit.    Lot width – A single‐family home in the R‐2 district needs 50 feet of width; a duplex needs 100  feet. Logically, a three unit attached rowhouse might require 150 feet of width. Minimum side  2    setbacks and minimum unit width requirements would then determine the necessary width for  rowhouses with more than three units.    Units per run – Three units minimum; Commissioners should consider an upper limit of four to six  units.    Minimum width per unit – Most designers recommend a minimum of 20 feet per unit, though  outside units may be wider to take advantage of corner views.    Building layout – Rowhouses should be side by side units (not stacked up and down) and each  unit should have an individual front entrance.    Height – The usual maximum height in an R‐1 or R‐2 zoning district is 28 feet as measured from  average grade to the midpoint of the highest pitched roof. Commissioners discussed the  possibility of increasing this height to allow for the potential for tuck‐under garages. Many other  cities use 35 feet as a maximum height (measured not to the midpoint of the pitched roof but  overall height). Staff is suggesting 35 feet or three stories, whichever is less.    Setbacks – Front setbacks are 35 feet for single‐family homes and duplexes. For R‐3 and R‐4  buildings, the front setback is only 25 feet. Staff feels this reduced setback is more appropriate  for a rowhouses which is meant to have a greater street presence.    Rear setbacks in the R‐1 and R‐2 district are 25 feet. In the R‐3 district it is 30 feet adjacent to an  R‐1 zoned property or 20 feet in other instances. In the R‐4 district it is 40 feet adjacent to an R‐1  zoned property or 20 feet in other instances. Staff feels the potential height of a rowhouse makes  an increased setback more appropriate and suggests 30 feet in all situations.    Side setbacks are variable in the R‐1 and R‐2 district, dependent on the width of the lot. Given the  minimum lot width being proposed, the side setback would be 15 feet under the existing  regulations. Given the potential for increased height, staff feels this distance should be increased  to 20 feet. The same tent‐shaped building envelope would be applied, tipping in at a 2:1 slope  once a structure got above 15 feet in height at the side setback line. This restriction could be  accommodated by stepping back an upper level or pushing the footprint of a taller structure even  further from the side property line.    Accessory structures – As in other residential zoning districts, accessory structures (primarily  garages) should be located to the rear of the primary structure. Current regulations limit the total  accessory square footage to 1,000 square feet – this should be increased if three or more units  make up the rowhouse. Staff also recommends that garage access should not be from the front  of the structure but should be from the rear (via an internal driveway) or in a detached structure.  The front façade and appearance from the street is an important part of the signature rowhouse  look.    3    Lot coverage (buildings) – The percentage of an R‐2 lot that can be covered by buildings is  currently limited to 30% of the lot area. Adding up the likely footprint of a principal structure and  a detached garage that could accommodate 1.5 parking spaces per unit, staff recommends this  amount be increased – 35% is a starting point for consideration.    Impervious coverage – Given the likelihood that these rowhouses will be redevelopment sites  adjacent to single‐family homes, staff would prefer not to increase the amount of impervious  coverage allowed beyond the 50% that is currently permitted in the zoning district. This should  preserve sufficient open space to manage stormwater and limit runoff and impacts to  neighboring properties.    All of the above recommendations are summarized the table below:  Existing R‐2 Regulations Potential Rowhouse Regulations  Density     Single‐family: 6,000 sf min (6,000 sf/unit)     Duplex: 10,000 sf min (5,000 sf/unit)  Rowhouse: 5,500 sf/unit min which translates     to 16,500 sf for 3 units, 22,000 sf for 4 units,     27,500 sf for 5 units, etc.  Lot width     Single‐family: 50 feet     Duplex: 100 feet (or 50 feet per lot for zero        lot line units)  Rowhouse: 150 feet; may consist of multiple  smaller lots if subdivided for zero lot line  homes  Units per run 3 units min, 4‐6 units max  Minimum width per unit 20 feet  Building layout Side by side (not stacked) dwelling units with  individual direct entrances  Height: 28 feet to the midpoint of the highest  roof  Maximum of 35 feet or 3 stories, whichever is  less  Setbacks     Front: 35 feet     Rear: 25 feet     Side: varies by lot width  Front: Decrease to 25 feet  Rear: Increase to 30 feet  Side: Increase to 20 feet  Accessory structures   To the side or rear of the primary structure   5 feet from a rear or side property line   No more than 1,000 sf of total area   Garage width limited to 65% of front façade   Only allowed to the rear of the structure   Increase amount of accessory space allowed   Encourage (require?) rear access or  detached garages  Lot coverage (buildings): 30% 35%  Impervious coverage: 50% 50%    Zero Lot Line Homes  Allowing ownership of individual units in a rowhouse would require a modification to the City’s  subdivision regulations, which currently only allow zero lot line arrangements for two unit  structures. It would be fairly easy to modify the current regulations to allow three or more  individually owned lots with contiguous units.  4      Rental units within a rowhouse – one owner        Rowhouse units with individual ownership (zero lot line homes)    5    Staff Request  At this time, staff is looking for feedback on the proposed regulations.    Attachments  City of Cincinnati Form‐Based Code – Rowhouse (2 pages)  Denver Zoning Code – Row House Design Standards (2 pages)  Selection from Planning Advisory Service Information Report No. 164 – Row Houses (3 pages)    1703-3.90 Rowhouse A. Description The Rowhouse/Townhouse building type is a small- to medium-sized typically attached structure that consists of 2–8 Rowhouses placed side-by-side. In a feature unique to Cincinnati, this type may also occasionally be detached with minimal separations between the buildings. This type is typically located within medium-density neighborhoods or in a location that transitions from a primarily single-family neighborhood into a neighborhood main street. This Type enables appropriately-scaled, well-designed higher densities and is important for providing a broad choice of housing types and promoting walkability. T3E T3N T4N.MF T4N.SF T5MS T5N.LS T5N.SS T5F T6C Key T# Allowed T# Not Allowed Rowhouses with covered stoops acting as a single building A row of minimally-detached three-bay Rowhouses Classically detailed brick Rowhouses are stepped down a steep sidewalk. General Note: Photos on this page are illustrative, not regulatory. 3-16 City of Cincinnati Form-Based CodeApproved by City Council 5/8/13 1703-3.90 Specifi c to Building Types B. Number of Units Units per Rowhouse 1 per fl oor max. Rowhouses per Lot 1 max. Rowhouses per run 2 min.; 8 max. C. Building Size and Massing Height Per transect zone standards in Section 1703-2 (Specifi c to Transect Zones). Main Body Width per Rowhouse 18' min.; 36' max. The footprint area of an accessory structure may not exceed the footprint area of the main body of the building. A D. Allowed Frontage Types Porch: Engaged 1703-4.60 Porch: Projecting 1703-4.50 Stoop 1703-4.70 E. Pedestrian Access Main Entrance Location Front street Each unit shall have an individual entry facing a street. F. Private Open Space Width 8' per unit min. Depth 8' per unit min. Area 100 sf min. Required street setbacks and driveways shall not be included in the private open space area calculation. Required private open space shall be located behind the main body of the building. B C D Front Street Front Street Alley Alley Side StreetSide StreetDD B B B C C A A A ROW / Lot Line Setback Line Frontage Private Open Space Key ROW / Lot Line Shared Lot Line1 Setback Line Building Key 1Rowhouses may have a shared Lot Line. 3-17City of Cincinnati Form-Based Code Approved by City Council 5/8/13 1703-3.90 Specifi c to Building Types Rowhouse 5.3-12 | Article 5. Urban Neighborhood ContextDivision 5.3 Design Standards DENVER ZONING CODEJune 25, 2010 | Republished May 24, 2018 D. Row House | 5.3-13 Article 5. Urban Neighborhood ContextDivision 5.3 Design Standards DENVER ZONING CODEJune 25, 2010 | Republished May 24, 2018 ROW HOUSE U-TU-B2*U-RH-2.5 U-RH-3AHEIGHT A Stories, front 65% / rear 35% of zone lot depth (max)2.5/2.5 2.5/1 2.5/1 A Feet, front 65% / rear 35% of zone lot depth (max)35’/35’35’/19’35’/19’ B Side Wall Height, for Pitched Roof, within 15’ of Side Interior and Side Street (max)25’ 25’ 25’ C Upper Story Setback, for Low-slope Roof, Above 25’: Side, Interior and Side Street (min)15’15’15’ U-TU-B2*U-RH-2.5 U-RH-3ASITING ZONE LOT Zone Lot Size (min/max)6,000 sf / 9,375 sf 6,000 sf / na 6,000 sf / na D Zone Lot Width (min)50’50’50’ Dwelling Units per Primary Residential Structure (max)na 10 10 SETBACKS E Primary Street, block sensitive setback required yes yes yes E Primary Street where block sensitive setback does not apply (min)20’20’20’ E Side Street (min)5'5'5' F Side Interior (min)5’5’5’ Rear, alley/no alley (min)12’/20’ 12’/20’ 12’/20’ PARKING Surface Parking between building and Primary Street/Side Street Not Allowed/Allowed Vehicle Access From Alley; or From street when no Alley present G DETACHED ACCESSORY STRUCTURES See Sec. 5.3.4 U-TU-B2*U-RH-2.5 U-RH-3ADESIGN ELEMENTS BUILDING CONFIGURATION H Dwelling Units Oriented to the Street All Dwelling Units shall be Oriented to the Street Dwelling Unit Configuration Structure shall only contain Side-by-Side Dwelling Units I Upper Story Stepback, for any portion of building with Low- slope Roof, Above 25’: Primary Street (min)10’10’10’ Street facing attached garage door width per Primary Struc- ture (max)20’20’20’ Attached Garage Allowed May follow the Detached Garage building form Side Street, Side Interior and Rear setbacks Rooftop and/or Second Story Decks See Section 5.3.5.2 STREET LEVEL ACTIVATION J Pedestrian Access Each unit shall have a street-facing Entrance USES U-TU-B2*, U-RH-2.5 and U-RH-3A Primary Uses shall be limited to Multi Unit Dwelling (3+). See Division 5.4 Uses and Parking See Sections 5.3.5 - 5.3.7 for Supplemental Design Standards, Design Standard Alternatives and Design Standard Exceptions *Form is permitted ONLY on corner zone lots where at least one of the intersecting streets is a collector or arterial street, according to the functional street classifications adopted by the Public Works Department. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLANNING OFFICIALS 1313 EAST 60TH STREET — CHICAGO 37 ILLINOIS Information Report No. 164 November 1962 Row Houses Prepared by Frank S. So The row house has frequently been pictured as a type of housing that perfectly illustrates conditions of overcrowding, lack of light and air and open space, architectural monotony, and other environmental defects. A photograph of an old row house development was always useful in persuading a local community to modernize its zoning ordinance. However, recent attractively designed row house projects in both newly constructed and renewal areas of Louisville, Detroit, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Chicago, and many smaller communities have brought favorable comment from both builders and the general public. The now classic row developments of Chatham Village in Pittsburgh and Baldwin Hills in Los Angeles, built a number of years ago, are being examined with renewed appreciation. The row house (also called "town house," "patio town house," "maison-ette," "court dwelling," and "group house") is enjoying increased popularity for several reasons, most important of which are lower construction costs and land space requirements per dwelling unit, and growing acceptance by the house-buying public. The row dwelling is cheaper to build than detached units. Considerable savings are made possible through the use of fewer windows and party walls, plus utilization of precut subunits, which seem to be employed more frequently in row house construction than in other types of building activity. Needing smaller lots, savings in land cost can also be realized. Good row house site design creates usable open space in contrast to the useless narrow sideyards and exposed front and back yards that are typical of single-family subdivisions, where community social mores often work to inhibit the erection of adequate fences that assure familial privacy. The row house also fills an apparent vacuum in the housing market, being particularly attractive to married couples under 25 or over 55, who find that neither the typical apartment nor the usual suburban single-family detached house meets their housing requirements. While most row house developments to date have been built in large cities or metropolitan areas, smaller communities may soon be faced with the decision to permit or reject this new and strange kind of housing unit. Questions such as, "Is this good housing or a potential slum?"; and "Aren't these lots smaller than anything we've permitted before?" will be asked. This report introduces and describes some of the general characteristics of this type of housing. Advantages of Row Housing The row house firstly offers economy to the individual owner. Proponents argue that with existing land and building costs, the row house provides more space for less money than do other types of dwelling units. Maintenance and operating expenses — heating and care of exterior surfaces (row houses usually have brick facing) — are lower. For those with little or no taste for outdoor landscaping and gardening, there is no need to spend long hours keeping up large private yards. The row house offers amenity advantages over apartments and even some detached single-family dwellings. There is relatively greater privacy in living side by side in row houses than there is in living over and under other families in apartment buildings. Each row house unit has a small plot of privately-owned land that cannot be provided with apartment accommodations. It is claimed that well-fenced row house privacy can be more complete than that associated with some single- family tracts. Moreover, row house advocates contend that ownership of an individual unit imparts a feeling of responsibility for maintenance lacking in the average rental occupancy. In addition, there is freedom to alter interior arrangements as with a free-standing house, i.e., a basement can be converted into a playroom or clubroom. Perhaps the most important attribute of row housing as far as the community as a whole is concerned is that it offers an alternative to the ubiquitous land-consuming single-family detached house. More families can be accommodated on the same amount of land. Municipal services can be more economically provided in areas of row house development than in areas of free-standing single-family houses, because of the compact nature of the former. Efficient use of land will cause net actual usable open space to compare favorably with that offered by detached single- family developments. Wasted sideyards and relatively useless setbacks can be combined to produce space better suited to both individual and community advantage. Finally, the community gains by the introduction of a dwelling unit that makes home ownership and its attendant stability possible for more people, while at the same time allowing greater architectural variety of housing type and size. Disadvantages of Row Housing Most of the unfavorable comment regarding row housing arises from experience with the type of unit built in the past. Many of these objections have been overcome by modern design and architectural treatment; others are primarily a matter of individual taste as to the kind of living accommodation preferred. The typical older row house is admittedly too narrow to allow good interior planning. Living space is consequently restricted and furnishing difficult. Without adequate fencing there is little privacy in the yard. Thin party walls transmit sounds from adjacent units. Lack of proper ventilating equipment causes the house to be hot in the summer. In the very oldest examples of big city row housing, dwellings were commonly deep and dark, a fault aggravated by the inadequate artificial lighting of the era. Endless facades of brick and wood caused one dwelling and indeed one street to be indistinguishable from another, except in those instances where owners went in for fancy colors on doors and trim. Exterior uniformity in a neighborhood of row houses is generally thought to be aesthetically more depressing than it is in a tract of detached single-family dwellings, although this is a fairly debatable point. Open space relief in older row house neighborhoods frequently occurs only where they contain a large school site or public park. Front yards, if any, are useless, and backyards in many older developments are too long and narrow to serve any purpose but automobile servicing and the storage of garbage cans. If no on-site parking has been provided, the street becomes an inefficient parking lot. In a few cities important elements of urban living — shopping facilities, social gathering places, and churches — are not conveniently located in or near row house neighborhoods.     1      Date:  October 23, 2020  To:  Golden Valley Planning Commission  From:  Myles Campbell, Planner  Subject:  2020 Land Use/Zoning Study – Commercial Uses        Summary  Planning staff and Commissioners have begun to review the existing language of the zoning code,  specifically in regard to its structure of permitted/conditional/restricted uses. This review is  intended to bring the code into conformity with the Comprehensive Plan and to streamline the  code to be more easily interpreted by residents, businesses, and other property owners.     After its discussion on October 12 regarding potential modifications to the Commercial Zoning  District’s allowed uses, Commissioners requested some additional information from staff,  namely:   Commissioners wanted a better understanding of restricted uses and what limitations  existed on their use and implementation.   Commissioners asked staff to highlight some uses they felt could either be removed,  consolidated, or modified in order to help facilitate a more efficient discussion.    Allowed Uses & Restricting Uses  Whether a particular land use is listed as permitted, restricted, or conditional it is important to  keep in mind that all of these designations still allow the use to exist within a district. The  difference between them is not whether the use is allowed, but instead the degree to which  these uses have additional requirements or approvals. A permitted bakery and a conditionally  approved car wash are equally legal land uses in a commercial district, one just has an extra  degree of scrutiny applied to it.     Permitted uses are the most straightforward to understand. A permitted use is allowed in the  district by right, and so long as it meets the general requirements of the district and the broader  2    zoning code (lighting, off‐street parking, etc.) then there are no further approvals or  requirements that can be placed upon a permitted use.     Commissioners are already familiar with conditional uses, being one of the two bodies that  review these permit applications. Conditional uses require an approval from the City Council, and  during their review by staff, Planning Commission, and Council a number of conditions can be  placed upon the use to mitigate external impacts. If a small auto shop seeks to open near an  existing residential neighborhood, staff may recommend a condition that all work be undertaken  indoors with garage doors closed, to limit noise pollution. These conditions must be tied to the  land use and to its impact on the surrounding area. Staff cannot recommend a condition that the  same auto shop stock a particular brand of tire.     If permitted uses fall on one end of a spectrum, and conditional uses on the other, then restricted  uses, also referred in other Cities as “permitted with restrictions” or “permitted with conditions”  make up the middle of that spectrum. The City of St. Louis Park provides the following definition  for its category of permitted with conditions:    Land uses permitted with conditions. Land uses listed as "permitted with conditions" are subject  to all of the requirements of land uses permitted by right plus those additional controls which are  listed following the specific land use. Land uses permitted with conditions do not require a public  hearing process.    Restricted uses still need to meet the broadly applicable requirements such as district  requirements, and state building code, but unlike a permitted use they also can have additional  standards placed upon them, similar to conditions placed on a conditional use. However, because  there is not a public hearing process and review, these restrictions/conditions must instead be  laid out in code, as opposed to being decided by staff and commissioners case‐by‐case.    Reqs to be  Met  State Reqs  (bldg code, fire  code)  General  Zoning Code  Reqs  C‐district  Reqs  Use Specific  Restrictions  Public  Hearing  Process  Permitted       Restricted       Conditional           At the October 12th meeting, Commissioners had some questions about what could qualify as a  valid restriction. Generally speaking, the City has the same latitude here as it would with creating  a CUP condition. The restriction should be tied to the use and its impact on the surrounding area.  3    As an example, below is the listing from St. Louis Park’s Commercial Zoning Chapter for animal  handling:      Animal handling. The conditions are as follows:   a. No animals or pens shall be kept outside the building or cause offensive odor or noise  discernible at the property line of the lot on which the activity is conducted.   b. Where animals are boarded, the facility shall be located a minimum of 100 feet from any  parcel that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential, or has an occupied  institutional building, including but not limited to schools, religious institutions, and  community centers.    In this example, we have two types of restrictions placed on the use and relating to its primary  impacts of noise and odor. One restricts the use in terms of its operations and using outdoor  space, but is carefully worded to relate directly to the associated impacts. The second is a  restriction on the uses proximity to either residential or active institutional properties, again to  mitigate any negative impacts from a use that typically presents challenges relating to noise and  odor.     Examples of possible restrictions include but are not limited to:   Limiting proximity to other zoning districts or uses   Limiting hours of operation   Limiting overall square footage or building height   Limiting noise, odor and nuisance impacts   Requiring site access from higher class roads to avoid traffic   Requiring additional preserved open space       Staff Recommended Changes  In staff’s examination of the existing commercial land uses, we sought to consolidate the number  of individually listed permitted uses where those uses are either outdated or can be consolidated.  Additionally we examined existing conditional uses to consider if any could be modified to be  restricted uses. For reference, the existing break down of allowed use (and specifically prohibited  uses) for the Commercial district is as follows:    Table 1 Commercial District Uses  Use Restriction Permitted Conditional Restricted Prohibited  # of Unique Uses 35 21 1 2    4  Attached with this memo will be three exhibits relating to staff’s proposed changes:  A breakdown of the existing allowed land use categories as organized in the table above (permitted, conditional, etc.) Tables showing the proposed changes in regard to elimination of categories, consolidation of categories, and changes in whether particular uses could be considered restricted uses. A breakdown of the allowed land uses, if staff’s changes were acted upon, organized in the same fashion as the attachment for the existing layout. In regard especially to restricted uses, staff will provide some potential restrictions to be placed  on those uses we call out, however we encourage commissioners to consider what other  restrictions they feel might apply. Restricted uses would not come before the commission on an  individual basis, and so the code must account for all potential impacts of the use. That said, staff  has erred on the side of caution in identifying restricted uses that we feel have a limited impact  overall, or for which the impact is very easily defined. The benefit of transitioning these uses to  restricted status is a streamlined approval process for business owners and operators.   Recommended Action  This meeting serves only as a discussion of the topic and does not require a vote form  Commissioners.   Attachments  Figures and Tables for Staff’s Recommendations (3 pages)  St Louis Park Code ‐ Art. IV, Div. 5 ‐ Commercial district regulations (5 pages)  PermittedConditional Restricted ProhibitedBakeriesAnimal hospitals, veterinary clinics, and/or pet grooming facilitiesRetail establishments that sell tobacco Sale or repair of firearms; andBarbershops and/or beauty parlorsAuto repair shops, including tire and auto accessory repair and installation Firing ranges.Catering establishmentsCar washesComfort stationsConvenience food storesDelicatessensDrive-through retail establishments, such as banks, cleaners, Class IIrestaurants, and similar usesDressmaking and tailoring establishments, including retail sales of clothing MortuariesClothing, shoes and/or accessories sales (retail) Off-street parking for adjacent commercial or industrial usesElectric repair shopsOutdoor sales, including car lots, auto, and equipment rentalsElectronic equipment salesOutdoor storage and/or sales of horticultural nursery sites, temporary farmersmarket, and itinerant salesFinancial institutionsPool hallsFloral shops (not to include nurseries)Class III restaurants, bars, night clubs, etc.Furniture sales and repairSales or show rooms (auto, machinery, boats, etc.)Hardware, paint, and decorating stores Service stationsHotels/motelsUnattended business operations, such as vending machines, coin- or token-operated machines and equipment, and similar usesLodge hallsHeliportsMessenger and telegraph servicesChild care centersOffices, including medical and dentalMarine engine repairPharmaciesAdult day care centerPhotograph supplies and/or galleriesEssential services, Class III, except for peaking stations and substationsPlumbing shopsBrewpubsPost officesPrincipal or conditional uses in buildings greater than three stories in height. Printing shopsPublic garagesRecreation buildings and structures (public and private), including gymnasium, racquetball, etc.Class I restaurantsSeasonal farm produce salesShoe repair shopsSkating rinks (ice or roller) privately owned and operated for profitShopping centers (general retail - convenience shopping)Tanning parlorsTheatersTrade school or training centers, both public and privateGeneral retail services and/or sales that are consistent with the purpose of the Commercial Zoning Districtand not otherwise listed as a conditional use in Subsection (e) of this sectionAdult-oriented services that require City licensing pursuant to other provisions of the City Code; andEssential services, Class I. Old Categories New Category Reasoning Bakeries Delicatessens Convenience Food Stores Dressmaking and tailoring establishments, including retail sales of clothing Clothing, shoes and/or accessories sales (retail) Shoe repair shops Recreation buildings and structures (public and private), including gymnasium, racquetball, etc. Skating rinks (ice or roller) privately owned and operated for profit Furniture sales and repair Hardware, paint, and decorating stores Plumbing shops Comfort stations Messenger and telegraph services Electric repair shops tanning parlor Trade school or training centers, both public and private Lodge halls Old Categories New Category Reasoning Outdoor sales,including car lots,auto,and equipment rentals Outdoor storage and/or sales of horticultural nursery sites, temporary farmers market, and itinerant sales Pool halls Class III restaurants, bars, night clubs, etc. Unattended business operations, such as vending machines, coin- or token-operated machines and equipment, and similar uses Heliports Marine engine repair Land Use Category Old Level of Review Reasoning + Restrictions Class III Restaurants Conditional Use Staff see a lot of benefit in promoting restaurants and easing the process of opening a new restaurant. The main impact would be noise affecting nearby residential, which could be mitigated by a proximity restriction. Potential Restrictions: - the principal structure shall not be located on a lot adjacent to a property zoned R-1 or R-2 Seasonal Farm Produce Sales Permitted Use This type of use is already covered in the section of code referencing temporary uses, restrictions could either refer to this section of code, or repeat any relevant controls Animal hospitals, veterinary clinics, and/or pet grooming facilities Conditional Use Principal impacts are potential noise and odor. Potential Restrictions: -No animals or pens shall be kept outside the building or cause offensive odor or noise discernible at the property line of the lot on which the activity is conducted - The principal structure should be a minimum of 100 feet from any property zoned residential or institutional Pawnshops, gold dealers, and payday lenders N/A - new category The city currently has a moratorium on these types of uses while it explores how to manage/restrict these uses. From staff's review of other communities, treating them as a restricted use makes sense in order to provide some additional city control. Car washes Conditional Use Staff has not settled on what restriction makes sense but given that a car wash's impact is largely in terms of traffic generation and and how vehicles safely enter and exit the site, feels confident a reasonable restriction can be found. Potentially this could require that access be provided off of a street identified as either a collector or arterial, rather than local or residential roads. N/A Heliports and Marine Engine Repair seem like poor fits for the Commercial District and can be added to other districts (eg industrial) with little issue. Unattended business operations seems very difficult not only to track and enforce, but staff cannot think of a case where we'd place conditions on something like a vending machine. Recommended Restricted Uses Staff feels these categories are not a great fit for the commercial district, potentially these could be relocated to other more applicable zoning chapters (institutional for both, potentially office for trade schools.) N/A Conditional Uses - Eliminated/Consolidated Categories Outdoor sales, including car lots, nurseries, and equipment rentals Farmer's markets and seasonal sales are already covered by temporary uses, consolidatining these outdoor sales uses reduces clutter/confusion. Uses that are purely outdoor storage are more suited to industrial or light industrial districts. Bars, nightclubs, and other nighttime entertainment venues Pool Halls are becoming less common to be listed individually, staff would suggest breaking apart bars and Restaurants to treat the latter as a restricted use. Hardware, furniture, and other home goods sales Reduces the overall number of categories listed. Permitted Uses - Eliminated/Consolidated Categories N/A These uses either feel outdated or more generally no longer relevant to call out separately from general retail services. Supermarkets, Bakeries, and other off-premise food sales Reduces the overall number of categories for food retailers. Convenience food stores is a conditional use currently, but this feels unnecessary. Clothing Sales and Repairs Reduces the overall number of categories listed, consolidates clothing sales and repair to reduce clutter. Recreation buildings and structures (public and private), including gyms, skating rinks, etc. Skating rinks are recreational structures, no need for a separate category. PermittedConditional Restricted ProhibitedBarbershops and/or beauty parlors Auto repair shops, including tire and auto accessory repair and installation Retail establishments that sell tobacco Sale or repair of firearms; andCatering establishmentsBars, nightclubs, and other nighttime entertainment venuesClass III restaurantsFiring ranges.Clothing Sales and RepairsDrive-through retail establishments, such as banks, cleaners, Class II restauranCar washesElectronic equipment salesMortuaries pawnshops, gold dealersFinancial institutionsOff-street parking for adjacent commercial or industrial usesAnimal hospitals, veterinary clinics, and/or pet grooming facilitiesFloral shops (not to include nurseries)Outdoor sales, including car lots, nurseries, and equipment rentals Seasonal farm produce salesHardware, furniture, and other home goods sales Sales or show rooms (auto, machinery, boats, etc.)Hotels/motelsService stationsOffices, including medical and dental Child care centersPharmaciesAdult day care centerPost officesEssential services, Class III, except for peaking stations and substationsPrinting shopsBrewpubsPublic garagesPrincipal or conditional uses in buildings greater than three stories in height. Recreation buildings and structures (public and private), including gymnasium,skating rinks, etc.Class I restaurantsShopping centers (general retail - convenience shopping)Supermarkets, Bakeries, and other off-premise food salesTheatersGeneral retail services and/or sales that are consistent with the purpose of the Commercial Zoning District and not otherwise listed as a conditional use in Subsection (e) of this sectionAdult-oriented services that require City licensing pursuant to other provisions of the City Code; andEssential services, Class I. Article IV. Zoning Districts § 36-192 Division 5. Commercial District Regulations* Sec. 36-191. Purpose of division. The provisions of this division deal with the commercial use of land and structures in the city. (Code 1976, § 14:5-5) Sec. 36-192. Commercial restrictions and performance standards. The following restrictions and performance standards shall govern uses permitted in any C commercial district: (1) All business activities including but not limited to sales, rentals, service, storage, merchandise display, repair, and processing, except for off-street vehicular parking and off-street loading, which are conducted in a commercial district shall be conducted wholly within an enclosed structure except as specifically permitted elsewhere in this chapter. (2) Outdoor storage shall be prohibited in the commercial districts except when specifically permitted elsewhere in this chapter. (3) Goods produced on the premises in the C-1 district shall be sold only at retail on the premises and the processes and equipment employed in production shall be of such character that no offensive odor, dust, smoke, ash, gas, noise, vibration or refuse matter are produced from the use of them. (4) Business uses shall front on a public way or an interior arcade. (5) All delivery service entrances to a building in the C-1 district shall be from a public alley, service-alley, off-street parking lot, or all deliveries shall be made from the curb. (6) All trash, garbage, waste materials, trash containers, and recycling containers shall be kept in the manner required by this Code. (7) There shall be no vehicular access within 50 feet of the intersection of the projection of the nearest curblines of any public streets to a parcel on which a commercial use is operated. (8) No storage, display or parking of vehicles shall be allowed in any of the required yards or landscaped areas. (9) New structures and structures which expand the gross square footage of the structure by more than 50 percent shall be required to place all utility service lines underground. Any new service to an existing building shall be placed underground. (10) Access for all commercial uses shall be from a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan or as a collector or arterial or otherwise located so that access can be provided without generating significant traffic on local residential streets. ---------- *Cross reference(s)--Businesses and licenses, ch. 8. ---------- Supp. No. 38 (07-19) 36:143 St. Louis Park Zoning Code § 36-192 Commercial District Regulations (11) Sidewalks at least five feet in width shall be provided along all sides of the lot that abut a public street. (12) A separate pedestrian access shall be provided between the principal building and the public street or a public trail, on all sides of the lot which front on a public right-of-way or public trail. This access shall be separated from parking areas by curbed, landscaped islands which have a minimum width of 20 feet inclusive of sidewalk. If a transit stop is located on any adjacent public street, access shall be located convenient to that transit stop. (Code 1976, § 14:5-5.1) Sec. 36-193. C-1 neighborhood commercial district. (a) Purpose/effect. The purpose of this C-1 neighborhood commercial district is to provide for low-intensity, service-oriented commercial uses for surrounding residential neighborhoods. Limits will be placed on the type, size, and intensity of commercial uses in this district to ensure and protect compatibility with adjacent residential areas. (b) Permitted uses. The following uses are permitted in the C-1 district if the use complies with the commercial restrictions and performance standards of section 36-192: (1) Park/open space. (c) Uses permitted with conditions. A structure or land in a C-1 district may be used for one or more of the following uses. (Ord. No. 2358-08, 8-14-08) (1) Adult day care. The condition for adult day care is at least 12% of the lot area shall be developed as designed outdoor recreation area. (Ord. No. 2267-04, 4-12-04) (2) Group care/nursery school. The conditions are as follows: a. A minimum of at least 40 square feet of outside play space per pupil shall be provided and such space shall be enclosed by a fence. b. An off-street passenger loading area shall be provided in order to maintain vehicular and pedestrian safety. c. The play area shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any roadway defined on the comprehensive plan as a principal arterial. (3) Parks/recreation. The conditions are as follows: a. The principal structure shall be located a minimum of 50 feet from a lot in an R district. b. Areas designated for group activities shall be located a minimum of 25 feet from a lot in an R district. c. Swimming pools shall be located a minimum of 50 feet from any lot line and a minimum of 12 feet from any other structure on the same lot. d. Facilities which serve a community wide or regional function shall be located with primary vehicular access on a collector or arterial street. Supp. No. 38 (07-19) 36:144 St. Louis Park Zoning Code C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District § 36-193 (4) Public service structures. The conditions are as follows: a. All exterior faces of all buildings shall meet the provisions of article V of this chapter. b. All structures shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from any parcel that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential, or has an occupied institutional building, including but not limited to schools, religious institutions and community centers. c. All service drives shall be paved. (5) Animal handling. The conditions are as follows: a. No animals or pens shall be kept outside the building or cause offensive odor or noise discernible at the property line of the lot on which the activity is conducted. b. Where animals are boarded, the facility shall be located a minimum of 100 feet from any parcel that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential, or has an occupied institutional building, including but not limited to schools, religious institutions, and community centers. (6) Appliance, small engine and bicycle repair. Engines shall not be operated or tested outside of a structure if the use is located within 300 feet of any parcel that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential, or has an occupied institutional building, including but not limited to schools, religious institutions, and community centers. (7) Food service. The conditions are as follows: a. Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or arterial roadway, or shall be otherwise located so that access can be provided without generating significant traffic on local, residential streets. b. No building may be located within 25 feet of any parcel that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential, or has an occupied institutional building, including but not limited to schools, religious institutions, and community centers. (8) Printing process. The conditions are as follows: a. The floor area of the operation cannot exceed 5,000 square feet. (9) Private entertainment (indoor) without intoxicating liquor license. The conditions are as follows: a. The structure in which the use is conducted shall be located a minimum of 60 feet from any parcel that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential or has an occupied institutional building including but not limited to a school, religious institution or community center. b. If there is a wine and/or beer license, there shall be no separate bar area within the establishment. Supp. No. 38 (07-19) 36:145 St. Louis Park Zoning Code § 36-193 C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District (10) Restaurants without intoxicating liquor license. The conditions are as follows: a. Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or arterial or shall be otherwise located so that access can be provided without generating significant traffic on local residential streets. b. Buildings shall be located a minimum of 25 feet from any parcel that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential or has an occupied institutional building including but not limited to a school, religious institution or community center. c. If there is a wine and/or beer liquor license, there shall be no separate bar area within the restaurant. (11) Service. The maximum floor area shall be 7,500 square feet. (Ord. No. 2571-19, 9-16-19) (12) Studio. The conditions are as follows: a. No impact noise shall be audible from any property located in an R district. (13) Communication towers that are 45 feet or less in height, subject to the provisions of Section 368 (Communication Towers and Antennas). (Ord. No. 2367-09, 1-23-09) (14) Limited impact sexually-oriented business. The conditions are as follows: a. No owner, manager or employee shall allow any sexually-oriented materials or entertainment to be visible or perceivable in any manner, including aurally, at any time from outside of the business. b. The business owner, manager or employee shall assure that no person under the age of 18 years enters the separate area where sexually-oriented materials are provided. c. No owner, manager or employee shall allow any person under the age of 18 years to have access to any sexually-oriented materials, whether by sight, purchase, touch, or any other means. d. No owner, manager, or employee may sell or display for sale any sexually-oriented materials except in original unopened packages. e. No business may have a license under chapter 3 of this Code other than an off-sale license for nonintoxicating malt liquor. f. Both the owner of a sexually-oriented business and the manager of the business shall be responsible for the conduct of their employees and for compliance with this section. g. No owner or manager of a sexually-oriented business shall employ a person under the age of 18 years. h. No owner, manager or employee of a sexually-oriented business shall have been convicted of violating this section three or more times within 24 months. Supp. No. 39 (12-19) 36:146 St. Louis Park Zoning Code (15) Residential/multifamily/cluster housing. The conditions are as follows: a. It is part of a commercial development permitted within the district. b. The building design and placement provide a desirable residential environment. c. Access to open space, plazas, and pedestrianways is provided. d. The housing is located above the ground floor. e. The minimum spacing between buildings is at least equal to the average heights of the buildings except where dwellings share common walls. f. The total number of units provided on an individual parcel does not exceed eight units. (16) Libraries. The condition for libraries is that these cannot exceed intensity classification 4 (17) Museums. The condition for museums is that these cannot exceed intensity classification 4 (18) Police/fire stations. The condition for police/fire stations is that these cannot exceed intensity classification 4 (19) Parking lot. The conditions are as follows: a. Vehicles shall not be parked on the parking lot from midnight to 5am. b. Vehicles shall be licensed and operable. c. Outside storage of materials, equipment or other items other than vehicles is not permitted. (20) Medical/dental office. The condition for medical/dental office is that these cannot exceed intensity classification 4. (21) Funeral home. The condition for funeral home is that these cannot exceed intensity classification 4 (22) Banks. The condition for banks is that these cannot exceed intensity classification 4 (23) Business/trade schools/college. The condition for business/trade schools is that these cannot exceed intensity classification 4 (Ord. No. 2358-08, 8-14-08) (24) Office. The condition for office is that these cannot exceed intensity classification 4 (25) Retail. The conditions for retail are that the maximum floor area shall be 7,500 square feet and shall not exceed intensity classification 4 for all other measures. (26) Large item retail. The conditions for large item retail are that the maximum floor area shall be 7,500 square feet and shall not exceed intensity classification 4. (27) Shopping Centers. The condition for shopping centers is that these cannot exceed intensity classification 4. (Ord. No. 2248-03, 8-18-03; Ord. No. 2444-13, 8-30-2013; Ord. No. 2571-19, 9-16-19) C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District § 36-193 Supp. No. 39 (12-19) 36:147 St. Louis Park Zoning Code   1      Date:  November 23, 2020  To:  Golden Valley Planning Commission  From:  Jason Zimmerman, Planning Manager  Subject:  Report on R‐3 Density Bonuses       Summary  As part of the zoning text changes to the R‐3 density ranges approved by the City Council earlier  in the year, the Planning Commission asked for assistance from the Environmental Commission in  drafting a Density Bonus Policy to update and better align the City’s efforts around density in this  zoning district.    The Environmental Commission has completed this review and the draft policy is now being  shared with the Planning Commission before being submitted to the City Council for  consideration in December.    Recommendation  Staff is asking the Planning Commission to review the draft policy and provide any feedback  before it is prepared for submittal to the City Council.    Attachments  Draft Medium Density Residential (R‐3) Density Bonus Policy (8 pages)  Guide to Purchasing an EV Charging Station (2 pages)    CITY OF GOLDEN VALLEY  MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (R‐3) ZONING DISTRICT ‐ DENSITY BONUS POLICY  October 26, 2020    Purpose:  The purpose of this policy is to increase the City’s resilience and sustainability with respect to  climate variations by improving energy efficiency, promoting and developing renewable energy,  and protecting and enhancing the natural environment by incentivizing developers and  property owners to invest in infrastructure that will help achieve these goals.    Background:  At its August 24 meeting, the Planning Commission requested the Environmental Commission  review the City’s proposed R‐3 density bonuses and assist in developing a policy document that  will more specifically outline and detail the allowable density bonuses based on certain  environmental performance standards. The R‐3 zoning district typically includes medium  density housing (townhomes, apartments & condominiums, senior housing) up to 10 units per  acre.    For context, the allowed densities in the R‐3 zoning district are being updated to align with the  land uses in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The current code language provides density bonuses  of 1‐2 units per acre if certain conditions are met, including providing underground parking,  locating along a high frequency transit line, and construction of recreational amenities within  the development. In order to update these bonuses, the Commission looked to the goals and  priorities included in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan – mostly around energy efficiency and  sustainability.    The Planning Commission approved six (6) topics and draft language that was mostly pulled  from the PUD Amenity Options in city code. Ultimately, the Planning Commission decided to  leave the details of each topic to be worked out in a separate policy document so they can be  updated more easily as technologies, standards, and costs change over time. The Planning  Commission requested the Environmental Commission review the draft language and assist in  developing a policy document that can be approved by City Council in 2020.    Eligibility, Condition, and Bonus:  Density Bonus. Multifamily buildings shall be eligible for a density bonus of up to an  additional three units per acre and senior and physical disability housing shall be eligible for a  density bonus of up to an additional five units per acre, provided the corresponding  conditions are met:    (1)  Underground Parking. The current zoning requires 1.5 parking spaces per unit  anywhere on the property. The provision of 1.00 to 1.99 underground (or above  ground but contained within the building footprint) parking stalls per dwelling unit  shall increase the maximum allowable density by one unit per acre. The provision of  2.00 or more underground (or above ground but contained within the building  footprint) parking stalls per dwelling unit shall increase the maximum allowable  density by two units per acre. In addition to meeting one of the parking provisions  above, if 30% or more of the site is preserved as pervious open space dedicated  through a permanent easement, this shall increase the maximum allowable density by  one additional unit per acre.    (2)  Green Certified Buildings. Buildings that achieve LEED Platinum certification by a  LEED accredited professional shall increase the maximum allowable density by three  units per acre. Buildings that achieve LEED Gold certification by a LEED accredited  professional shall increase the maximum allowable density by two unit per acre.  Buildings that achieve LEED Silver certification by a LEED accredited professional shall  increase the maximum allowable density by one unit per acre.    (3)  Renewable Energy. Use of a photovoltaic or wind electrical system, solar thermal  system, and/or a geothermal heating and cooling system, as certified by an energy  engineer, to provide the following performance standards:  i. at least 30 percent of the building/campus annual energy demand shall  increase the maximum allowable density by one unit per acre.  ii. at least 60 percent of the building/campus annual energy demand shall  increase the maximum allowable density by two units per acre.  iii. at least 90 percent of the building/campus annual energy demand shall  increase the maximum allowable density by three units per acre.    (4)  Microgrids. Construction of microgrid infrastructure that contributes efficiency,  security, and back‐up power to a local system if the system:    Provides onsite diesel or similar generator and/or electric battery storage sufficient to  power the building for at least a 24‐hour period, it shall increase the maximum  allowable density by one unit per acre.  Provides at least 75% of the annual energy demand, it shall increase the maximum  allowable density by two units per acre.  Provides 100% of the annual energy demand, it shall increase the maximum allowable  density by three units per acre.    A real‐world example of microgrid system infrastructure is provided in Exhibit A.    (5)  Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. An electric vehicle charging station (Smart  Residential Level 2 or better) accessible to residents, visitors, and employees providing  connections at the rate of five (5) percent of the required parking spaces shall increase  the maximum allowable density by one unit per acre. Providing connections at a rate  of 10% or more of the required parking spaces shall increase the maximum allowable  density by two units per acre. Providing DC Fast Charging stations at a rate of five (5)  percent of the required parking spaces shall increase the maximum allowable density  by three units per acre. An electric vehicle charging station (Commercial Level 2)  accessible to the general public providing connections at the rate of two (2) percent of  the required parking spaces shall increase the maximum allowable density by one unit  per acre. See Exhibit B for more information on charging stations.    (6)  Stormwater Facilities. Above ground, multi‐benefit green infrastructure, either on  its own or in combination with below ground infrastructure, designed to enhance water  quality and reduce stormwater runoff rates, volumes, and nutrient loads beyond what is  required by the City and Watershed shall increase the maximum allowable density. The  design must serve as a visual amenity to the property and be reflective of innovative  techniques. The following standards shall apply:    Rate Control for New Development and Redevelopment. Post‐construction  stormwater runoff rates must be reduced by at least 10% from pre‐project rates  for the two‐, 10‐, and 100‐year 24‐hour precipitation events based on NOAA  Atlas‐14 precipitation‐frequency data. Achieving this standard shall increase the  maximum allowable density by one unit per acre.  Discharge Volume, TP, and TSS for New Development and Redevelopment. The  MIDS performance goal for storm water volume and pollution reduction is to  capture and infiltrate 1.1 inches of runoff volume from the new or fully  reconstructed impervious surfaces on sites without restrictions (See Exhibit C). If  an applicant can demonstrate through modeling accepted by the City and  BCWMC that it can capture and infiltrate 1.5 inches of runoff volume from the  new and/or fully reconstructed impervious surfaces, that shall increase the  maximum allowable density by one unit per acre. On sites with documented  restrictions, a flexible treatment option approach with the following standards  shall apply in the order of the sequence outlined below.    Alternative 1   Achieve at least the 0.75 inches volume goal, and   Remove 80% of the annual total phosphorus load, and   Consider and present as options the merits of relocating project  elements to address varying soil conditions and other constraints  across the site.    Alternative 2  Note: For this alternative, higher priority will be given to best management  practices that include volume reduction. Secondary preference is to employ  filtration techniques, followed by rate control best management practices.   Achieve volume reduction to the maximum extent practicable, and   Remove 80% of the annual total phosphorus load, and   Consider and present as options the merits of relocating project  elements to address varying soil conditions and other constraints  across the site.    Process:  The requested density bonus, condition, and performance standard must be included in the  Land Use Application. The Application must contain all required information, plans and details,  and certifications described above in the conditions, as well as any other pertinent information  required by the City through its permit review process. The City will review all information for  accuracy. If acceptable, the City will enter into deposit agreement with the applicant at 125% of  the value of the proposed work, in a form acceptable by the city attorney, to ensure the  proposed infrastructure is constructed as part of the development.    Definitions:  Example: Example definition here.  Example: Example definition here.  Attachments/Exhibits:  Exhibit A – Guide to Purchasing an EV Charging Station  Exhibit B – Minimum impact design standards (MIDS) for storm water management    Exhibit A  Example of Microgrid Infrastructure  The building and site described below is 100% powered by microgrid infrastructure: Natural gas turbines: 600kW Capstone C600 natural gas burning microturbine. Paired with absorption chiller and heat exchanger for CCHP. Microturbine fuels a system simultaneously creating electricity and thermal energy for heating and cooling. Solar: 150kW rooftop solar array, with additional expansion array planned Wind: 24kW of vertical axis wind turbines Electricity storage: 231kWh, at 125kW Ensync battery rated power and energy Generator: 1500kW of diesel backup generator Utility connection: Connected to local utility Xcel Energy Exhibit B  Guide to Purchasing an EV Charging Station  (attached separately)  Exhibit C  Minimal impact design standards (MIDS) for storm water management Minimal Impact Design Standards (MIDS) were developed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to minimize storm water runoff and pollution and thereby help maintain natural resources health. They are a prerequisite for and guide the selection of best management practices required for each individual site. They must be applied in a way to mimic each site's natural hydrology and protect features such as riparian buffers, wetlands, steep slopes, mature/healthy trees, floodplains, woodlands, and highly permeable soils. A. Guiding principles  Maximize water quality improvement  Maximize infiltration  Minimize impervious surfaces  Protect natural features  Showcase "keeping the raindrop where it falls" B. Performance goal The performance goal for storm water volume and pollution reduction is to capture and infiltrate 1.1 inches of runoff volume from impervious surfaces on sites without restrictions. Compliance with the performance goals must be verified with modeling or calculating, using the MIDS calculator, P8, WinSLAMM, or other methods. 1. New Development and Redevelopment The performance goal applies to any new or fully reconstructed impervious surfaces. Mill & overlay and other resurfacing activities are not considered full reconstructions. 2. Sites with restrictions All projects should first attempt to fully meet the volume reduction performance goal of 1.1 inches retention. If the engineer/designer is unable to achieve the full performance goal due to site restrictions as documented, the Flexible Treatment Option Approach shall apply in the order of the sequence outlined below. Examples of site restrictions:  Karst geology  Shallow bedrock  High groundwater  Poor soils (infiltration rates are too low or too high, problematic urban soils)  Hotspots or contaminated soils  Proximity to sanitary sewers a) Alternative 1  Achieve at least the 0.55 volume goal, and  Remove 75% of the annual total phosphorus load, and  Consider and present as options the merits of relocating project elements to address varying soil conditions and other constraints across the site. b) Alternative 2 Note: For this alternative, higher priority will be given to best management practices that include volume reduction. Secondary preference is to employ filtration techniques, followed by rate control best management practices.  Achieve volume reduction to the maximum extent practicable, and  Remove 75% of the annual total phosphorus load, and  Consider and present as options the merits of relocating project elements to address varying soil conditions and other conditions across the site.   Guide to Purchasing an EV Charging Station Purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) charging station can be intimidating, given the wide variety of options. With this guide, you’ll have the information needed to take steps toward purchasing a station, including common station features to consider, where to buy, and funding opportunities. COMMON STATION FEATURES The most basic charging station is a Level 2, or dumb charger, that lacks data tracking, payment collection abilities, and numerous other features, and is less expensive (~$400; unit only). Smart chargers offer a variety of features and come at an additional cost (~$600-700 for residential application Level 2; $1,000-$2,000 for commercial grade Level 2). The third option is a DC fast charger, which can cost $40,000 for the unit. Advertising Capabilities Generate additional revenue by using the display screen for third-party ads.Some Some Beacon Light Increase visibility at the station, especially at night; reduce vandalism.Some Some Access Management Control use through apps, radio frequency identification, or other hardware and software features.Some X X App-Based Payments Accept payment via a network-specific app. Less expensive than installing a credit card swipe but requires a network membership to operate. X X Credit Card Swipe/ Chip Reader Accept payment via a credit card swipe or chip reader. More expensive to install but does not require a network membership to operate. X X Cloud-Based Software Manage stations remotely to deliver maximum benefit to the electric grid, reduce on-site electricity costs, and provide energy at a low cost to EV drivers. X X X Docking Connector Prevent accidental disconnection during charging; power down the station when not in use or improperly connected to the vehicle. X X X Basic Kilowatt- Hour Monitoring Monitor total energy consumption over a given time period on site.X X X Advanced AC Monitoring Monitor energy usage remotely via an ethernet connection with the ability to create a historical log.X X X Powered by Renewable Energy* Power the station through direct on-site connection (requires smart charger) to solar panels, wind energy, etc. or subscribe to a utility’s renewable energy program. X X X Touchscreen Create an intuitive customer interface.Some Track Use Monitor usage patterns at the station to determine how many EVs are driven/charged and how often. Use this data to calculate fuel savings and emissions reductions. X X X Retractable Cord*Make it easier for users to operate; reduce vandalism or misuse of the cord if not returned to the holster after use.X X FEATURE DESCRIPTION APPLICABILITY Smart Residential Level 2 Commercial Level 2 DC Fast Charger * Not specific to smart chargers. WORKING WITH UTILITIES Large-scale charging installations (i.e., DC fast chargers or many Level 2s) will affect the energy consumed at your site, so you should work closely with your utility throughout the process. Be sure to address questions of cost and electrical load with them to ensure that both parties are aware of energy- and money-saving opportunities along with potential complications. WHERE TO PURCHASE Conduct research before purchasing. Identify the features you’re interested in beforehand to narrow down the choices and remember to ask about network fees, maintenance plans, warranties, and opportunities to reduce operating costs. Charging station companies Level 2 and DCFCs:• ChargePoint (https://www.chargepoint.com)• Greenlots (https://greenlots.com)• Tesla (https://www.tesla.com/charging)• Siemens (https://new.siemens.com/global/en/products/energy/low-voltage/components/electric-vehicle--ev-- charging.html)• ZEF Energy (https://www.zefenergy.com) Level 2 only:• eMotorwerks (https://evcharging.enelx.com) Big box stores (Home Depot, Walmart, Costco, etc.) Search online inventories for “EV charger” or “electric vehicle charging station.” State contract State agencies or local units of government can purchase EV charging equipment at a discount through the Minnesota state contract. General information is available here: https://mn.gov/admin/government/purchasing-contracting. Sourcewell Sourcewell is a public agency that takes the guesswork out of procuring charging infrastructure by coordinating contracts with manufacturers. Membership is free and offers several purchasing opportunities. More information is available here: https://www. sourcewell-mn.gov/cooperative-purchasing/how-it-works. FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES Minnesota Volkswagen settlement grants: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air/apply-grant. Utility rebates: Contact your local utility to see if they provide a rebate for charging stations. They may require you to sign up for special rates, such as time-of-use. Other grants: • Clean Energy Resource Teams seed grants: Offered every two years with requests for proposals issued in odd years; limited to supporting costs for installation: https://www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org/seedgrants#funding.• Minnesota Pollution Control Agency grants: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/about-mpca/contract-grant-and-loan- opportunities Federal incentives: Check the Alternative Fuels Data Center website for availability at https://afdc.energy.gov/laws/fed_ summary. This document was developed as part of Cities Charging Ahead!, a peer cohort of 28 cities that worked together across Minnesota to explore electric vehicle readiness. Participating cities received technical assistance focused on actions and best practices, based on the GreenStep Cities program, that can accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles. Cities Charging Ahead! was led by the Great Plains Institute and Clean Energy Resource Teams. Funding was provided through the Carolyn Foundation, Energy Foundation, and in partnership with Xcel Energy, which provided resources and support in line with the company’s long-term clean energy plan to electrify transportation. Learn more at driveelectricmn.org/cities-charging-ahead.