Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    1/312

     

    CITY COUNCIL REPORT

    MEETING DATE: March 22, 2016 CASE NO.:  2016-04 

    APPLICANT:  City of Stillwater

    REGARDING: Consideration of adoption of new regulations pertaining to parkingvehicles on yard areas. 

    PREPARED BY: Abbi Jo Wittman, City Planner

    BACKGROUND

    At the Council’s last regularly-scheduled meeting, the Council received a favorablerecommendation from the Planning Commission for approval of a Council-initiated ZoningText Amendment (ZAT) pertaining to yard parking. The Planning Commission had draftedthis ordinance through a four-month public process which included two public hearings inDecember and January.

    In early March the Council heard a presentation by City staff, took public testimony and closedthe public hearing prior to discussion. In the meeting, the Council directed staff in thefollowing ways:

      Amend to indicate no parking on grass in the Front Yard area.  Amend to allow for off-street parking spaces to be constructed of gravel.  Amend to allow for off-street parking spaces.  Amend to allow for the reconstruction of non-conforming driveways.  Explore how other communities address vehicle lengths and the total number of

    vehicles on properties and report back to the Council.

    PROPOSED AMENDMENTS

    Based on the directed provided by the Council, as well as public testimony heard in the hearing,

    staff has drafted the proposed amendments to the ordinance:

      Under General Provisions, the following has been added:o  Parking of vehicles on grass in the Front Yard area of all districts shall be

    prohibited.o  Parking of vehicles in Side Yard area is allowed if the vehicle is adequately

    screened by permitted fencing or year-round vegetation. In addition, the vehiclemust maintain at least a five foot (5’) setback from the side lot line.

      Under Design Requirements: Parking Spaces, the following has been added:

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    2/312

    Case No.2016-04CC: 3/8/2016Page 2 of 3

    o  In residential districts, parking spaces are not required to be contiguous todriveways.

      Under Design Requirement: Parking Facility Layout, the following has been amended toread:

    o  Existing nonconforming driveways shall be allowed to be maintained , repairedand replaced. Expansion of the nonconforming setback shall not be permitted.

     

    The Class 5 bed for pavers has been modified from ‘six to eight’ inches to ‘minimum ofsix’.

      Under [Off Street Parking Facilities] Surfacing, the following has been added:o  Gravel parking spaces may be permitted in residential districts only.

      Under Permit Required, the following has been amended to read:o  No driveway may be constructed without first obtaining a permit. The fee shall

    be established by resolution of the city council.

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    The Council direction staff to report on what other communities have done to address vehicle

    length and number of vehicles on a property. The following is a summary of those items foundin the Community Ordinance Summary, attached:

    Vehicle Length Number of VehiclesDuluth One occupied trailer in a private

    garage, driveway or in a rear yard

    Mahtomedi Up to 36’ Long – 1 per lotLess than 25’ Long – No numericalrestriction

    Minneapolis Vehicles greater than 25’ long areprohibited

    Maximum two vehicles per dwellingmay be parked on an improved surface

    Osseo Up to two recreationvehicles/equipment may be parked inresidential areas

    Redwing Maximum 32’ Long No more than one recreational vehiclemay be parked or stored outside

     Woodbury Maximum 24’ Long

    COUNCIL DISCUSSION

    Staff requests Council to discuss the proposed changes for determination of whether they

    address the concerns expressed at your last meeting. Additionally, the Council should furtherdiscuss whether or not the inclusion of vehicle length and total number of vehicles areappropriate inclusions into this ordinance.

    COUNCIL ACTION

    The Council has three alternatives:

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    3/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    4/312

     

    CITY COUNCIL REPORT

    MEETING DATE: March 8, 2016 CASE NO.:  2016-04 

    APPLICANT:  City of Stillwater

    REGARDING: Consideration of adoption of new regulations pertaining to parkingvehicles on yard areas. 

    PREPARED BY: Abbi Jo Wittman, City Planner

    ORDINANCE ORIGINATION

    At a regularly-scheduled City Council meeting in April, 2015, the City Council was asked byStillwater resident Eric Solberg (2064 Oak Glen Drive) to consider the creation of an Ordinanceto address the parking of vehicles in the front yards and on front lawns in residential areas inStillwater. It was indicated the issue was not only unsightly and of a blighted nature, but that itbrought down property values in the community.

    Direction was given to staff to work with the Planning Commission on the development of adraft ordinance which would address the issue of yard parking. The Council limited theordinance scope to address the parking of registered vehicles and trailers in yards, specificallyfront and side yards or those areas visible from the street, on improved surfaces only.

    PLANNING COMMISSION BACKGOUND

    In November the Planning Commission reviewed Mr. Solberg’s submission and discussed theCouncil’s direction. Staff discussed the ordinance impact with the Commission and providedthem with the results of a preliminary aerial imagery assessment and other community’sordinances. Staff has attached both of these for the Council’s review. With this information, theCommission preliminarily discussed potential components of the ordinance: surfacingmaterials, number of vehicles, fences and other visual barriers, applicable districts, etc. Lastlythe Commission directed staff to conduct a community input survey on the City’s website. In

    December the Commission reviewed the Community Input Survey and directed staff to preparean ordinance.

    Minutes of the November and December Planning Commission meetings are attached for theCouncil’s reference.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    5/312

    Case No.2016-04CC: 3/8/2016Page 2 of 4

    COMMUNITY INPUT SURVEY SUMMARY

    While staff has attached all community input survey results, as well as other public inputreceived prior to the Commission’s public hearing, staff would like to note:

    On November 16 City staff sent a press release to the Stillwater Gazette, the Lowdown, the

    Current, the Patch, the Pioneer Press, and the Star Tribune advising a public input survey wasavailable until December 1st. Additionally, utilizing the City’s constant contact, direct emailwas sent to 660 interested parties who have signed up to receive Planning Commission packetsand minutes as well as the Stillwater Scene, the City’s quarterly newsletter.

    A total of 297 survey responses were collected from 276 separate IP addresses online; anadditional ten individuals made direct contact to share their opinions with City staff. Generallyspeaking, those surveyed:

      Do not park on their lawns but think yard parking is a problem in Stillwater and wouldlike to see parking on lawns regulated.

      The regulation should apply across all districts

     

    Front yard parking was more concerning than side or corner yard parking.  Cars/pickups, RVs, Ice Houses on Skids, Pull-behind Campers, and Trailers should all

    be regulated

      ATVs, Snowmobiles and motorcycles should not be regulated

    PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING

    The Planning Commission held a public hearing on January 13. Staff has attached the minutesof that meeting. At the hearing the Commission heard from ten members of the public prior todiscussing the proposed ordinance. The Commission determined certain provisions, such aslimiting the total amount of impervious surface in the front yard was necessary to preserve the

    intent of front yard areas as well as allowance for alternative materials for the construction andreconstruction of driveways should be incorporated. The Commission directed staff to modifythe ordinance and bring back at the next meeting.

    In the February public hearing, the Commission heard from five members of the public.Included in the public testimony was a submission from Mr. Rob SanCartier (216 Owens StreetSouth) of 200+ petitions signed by residents of the community in which the first line of thepetition reads “efforts are being made to ban motor homes, boats, and recreational vehiclesfrom driveways and yards in Stillwater.” The four additional public comments involvedrequests regarding clarification of the proposed ordinance. As such, on a 5-0 vote, theCommission forwarded to the City Council a favorable recommendation of approval of the

    draft ordinance.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    6/312

    Case No.2016-04CC: 3/8/2016Page 3 of 4

    DRAFT ORDINANCE SUMMARY

    The draft ordinance was designed to be minimalistic while working within the existing zoningcode provisions. Staff has attached a legislative version of the draft ordinance for the Council’sreview. Any text where formatting has not been changed and highlighted, is current city coderegulation. In essence, the proposed code change would allow vehicles to be parked in the front

    and side yard of a home if it is on improved surfaces. Currently improved surfaces are onlyconcrete and asphalt. While the new ordinance provisions would not be applicable to AP(Agricultural Preserve) properties, it would be applicable to all other residential zoningdistricts.

    The ordinance would allow for paver driveways, as well as allow the City Engineer to approveother surfacing materials for flexibility in improved surfacing materials. Any driveway orparking area that is currently constructed of gravel or crushed rock would be allowed to bemaintained, but not expanded; no new gravel or crushed rock driveways would be allowed. Ifthe ordinance is approved, parking and drive areas would not be permitted to be located within5’ of a property line; this is a reduction from the code’s current setback of 10’. However, no

    greater than 50% of the front yard area would be permitted to be parking and drive areas, as topreserve open space in this area. Lastly, the Planning Commission is proposing the City createa permitting system for the construction and reconstruction of driveways.

    COUNCIL DISCUSSION

    The Council should review and discuss the proposed ordinance and determine whethermodifications should be made prior to adoption. One thing staff would like to request theCouncil consider is the requirement for permitting. In discussions with the Public Works andEngineering Department, Public Works Director Shawn Sanders indicated it may be good tohave a permit like this but questioned whether or not instituting this type of permit at this time

    was most appropriate as well as who would administer the permit review process. Sandersindicated that driveway specifications and standards are found in various sections of the CityCode and they are not as comprehensive as the City may desire (such as there is no provisionindicating separation between driveways, the standards for driveway widths, nor therequirements for assessing surface water runoff from new driveway construction). Sandersrecommended the City explore the development of comprehensive driveway standards prior torequiring new permits.

    COUNCIL ACTION

    The Council will hold a public hearing and take public comments. Once all comment has beenmade, the Council should close the public hearing and discuss the proposed Ordinance andtake action. The Council has three alternatives:

    1.  Move to approve, with or without changes, the first reading of the Ordinance and placethe item on March 22 Council agenda for a second reading.

    2.  Move to table the first reading, direction staff to incorporate changes as discussed by theCouncil.

    3.  Move to deny the first reading.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    7/312

    Case No.2016-04CC: 3/8/2016Page 4 of 4

    ATTACHMENTS

    Solberg SubmissionOrdinance Impact and Preliminary Aerial Imagery AssessmentCommunity Ordinance SummaryCommunity Input Survey

    Public CommentsLegislative VersionDraft Ordinance

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    8/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    9/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    10/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    11/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    12/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    13/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    14/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    15/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    16/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    17/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    18/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    19/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    20/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    21/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    22/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    23/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    24/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    25/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    26/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    27/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    28/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    29/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    30/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    31/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    32/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    33/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    34/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    35/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    36/312

     As presented to the Stillwater Planning Commission on November 9, 2015 (Page 1 of 3)

    ANTICIPATED ORDINANCE IMPACT & PRELIMINARY AERIAL ASSESSMENT

    A new ordinance designed to address yard parking could impact all residential properties inStillwater. To understand the extent of the issue, staff conducted an investigation as to thenumber of properties that would currently be in violation of an ordinance that prohibited yard

    parking in the front and side yards on an unimproved surface. Additionally, as many of theexamples shared by Mr. Solberg were within his neighborhood, staff wanted to determine if thisissue was a city-wide issue or not.

    In order to estimate the total number of offending properties, staff set the following parametersbased on the petition from Mr. Solberg and the Council’s direction: address the residentialparking of vehicles on unimproved surfaces in the front and side yards. From this it wasdetermined to break the City into manageable districts for review of properties. Attached is amap of the districts developed by staff. In order to conduct the survey effectively, it wasdetermined the review of aerial imagery of parcels in Stillwater would be the most efficient andeffective method for gathering data.

    Utilizing 360 degree aerial imagery from April 16, 2014, staff reviewed all residential propertiesin the following districts. It was determined that due to the nature of the AgriculturalPreservation (AP) zone, staff would not review these properties. Additionally, thoseneighborhoods in West Stillwater, which are included in active Homeowner’s Associations(HOAs), contain properties that are managed by covenants which address exterior storage andparking of vehicles. The results of the survey include:

    NeighborhoodEstimated

    Parcels TotalEstimated Offending

    ParcelsTotal

    Percentage

    Dutchtown 278 19 6.8%

    North Hill 985 13 1.3%

    South Hill 1,166 25 2.1%North Central 642 21 3.3%

    Central 811 39 4.8%

    West Central 931 46 4.9%

    Total 4,813 163 3.3%

    There are some inherent limitations to the survey conducted:

      Results are based on review of property from aerial photography. While zooming in on a

    specific parcel can be achieved, the visual quality is reduced. It left staff with the assumption

    that this object was a vehicle.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    37/312

     As presented to the Stillwater Planning Commission on November 9, 2015 (Page 2 of 3)

     

    When an object was identified, further investigation would lead staff to make certainassumptions: was there adjacent surfacing material and, if so, was that surfacing material

    impervious, permeable, etc.? In the circumstance identified on the next page, it was not

    until the last rotation staff identified an additional parking pad had been created on the

    property but that it does not appear to have been extended to the RV. Furthermore, the

    areas around the RV appear to be grass on at least two sides.

    Figure 

    1: 

     Aerial  

    Imagery  

     Zoomed  

    to 

    300% 

    Figure 

    2: 

     Aerial  

    Imagery  

    without  

     Zoom 

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    38/312

     As presented to the Stillwater Planning Commission on November 9, 2015 (Page 3 of 3)

      Lastly, as the aerial imagery was from the spring of 2014, assumptions can be made

    regarding whether or not the amount of yard parking occurring at the time the imagery wastaken is more or less the same all year round.

    With a basis of the impact of the ordinance staff is better able to indicate this problem is notnecessarily specific to one neighborhood; each residential neighborhood surveyed containsproperties which homeowners park their vehicles, trailers, etc. on their yards. Inneighborhoods where the total percentage is low, staff has made the assumption that this is dueto these properties having a relatively small amount of land space in comparison to otherneighborhoods. Additionally, the RB District (which the North and South Hill Districts arezoned), the Front Yard Setback area is 20’ whereas in the RA District (which several of the other

    districts are zoned) is 30’. The same is true for the Side Yard Setback area: the RB District allowsfor houses to be closer together with often less than 10’ in between houses.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    39/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    40/312

     

     As presented to the Stillwater Planning Commission on November 9, 2015 (Page 1 of 1)

    OTHER COMMUNITIES

    As indicated, Mr. Solberg identified ordinances specific to other communities. Additionally, hisresearch was expanded to include other communities which have a similar nature as Stillwater(either a river town or other historic community with a significant amount of visitors), as well as

    a small sampling of other metro area communities. A summary of the findings from the 33other communities is attached to this report.

    Most of the communities define a vehicle as something that is licensed and operable. Several ofthe communities indicate vehicles include cars, trucks, trailers, ATVs, snowmobile, all-terrainvehicles, campers and recreational vehicles. Four of the surveyed communities haveordinances, or a portion of their zoning/nuisance codes, that specifically address the parkingand/or storage of RVs on residential properties.

    Of the communities surveyed, over half of the communities outright prohibit parking on grassor other landscaping materials. A total of 22 communities require surfacing materials that areimproved, with 16 of the communities specifically designating asphalt, concrete, bricks orpavers as the approved surfacing material.

    Lastly, nearly all communities have specific designations regarding parking vehicles in the frontof the property. Where a community allows it, it is designated to be permitted on a driveway orapproved parking pad. In regards to side yards, often the side yard is denoted as allowing forparking when it is located behind the front line of the house. Lastly, many communities allowfor rear yard parking on unimproved surfaces.

    ATTACHED

    Community Ordinance Summary Compiled by City Staff

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    41/312

    Jurisdiction General 

    Regulation Violation Surfacing 

    Material Front 

    Yard Side 

    Yard

    Bayport  Unoperable or not 

    licensed

    Burnsville

    Vehicles must be parked 

    only on the approved 

    driveway 

    Concrete, asphalt or 

    pavers, or stored in the 

    garage

    Champlin

    To park a vehicle in a 

    yard without an 

    approved surface

    Vehicles and RVs on 

    access drive or driveway 

    are permitted

    Vehicles and RVs on

    access drive or drive

    are permitted

    City of  Big Lake

    Parking pads

     (improved

     

    and semi‐improved) 

    require an administrative 

    permit

    Improved Surface = 

    Concrete, asphalt or 

    pavers 

    in 

    Front 

    Yard/Semi‐Improved 

    Surface = gravel, class 5, 

    crushed rock or similar 

    composite contained to 

    control dust, drainage 

    and prevent spillage

    Must be on an improved 

    surface

    Must be in semi‐

    improved surface 

    City of  Grant

    The ordinance is silent to 

    vehicle parking with 

    regard to surfaces but 

    regulate partially 

    dismantled, non‐

    operating, wrecked, 

     junked, or

     discarded

     

    parts from vehicles. 

    Coon Rapids

    Parking is prohibited 

    except on improved 

    surface

    Parking is prohibited

    except on improved

    surface

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    42/312

    Crystal

    Motor vehicels are 

    prohibited from parking 

    on unapproved surfaces

    Duluth

    One unoccupied trailer 

    in a private garage, 

    driveway or

     in

     a rear

     

    yard

    On all lots, parking i

    allowed in the entire

    rear yard and one si

    yard.  For corner lot

    landowners 

    who 

    canlocate sufficient par

    in the rear or on one

    yard may then apply

    a Variance

    Edina  Parking on a non‐hard 

    surface

    Hugo

    Except in ag and rural 

    residential districts, 

    parking areas hall be 

    paved with bituminous, 

    concrete, pavers or 

    tother approved

     dustless

     and erosion resistant 

    material

    Lakeville

    Parking prhobitied unless 

    on designated driveway 

    or surfaced space on the 

    side of  a driveway

    Pavers, bricks, concrete 

    or bituminour material

    Mahtomedi 

    (See 

    Table)

    All parking shall be hard 

    surfaced. 

    Hard surfaced areas shall 

    consist of  a durable 

    material such as 

    concrete or

     asphalt

     but

     

    not including gravel or 

    crushed rock

    One four hundred (4

    square foot hard 

    surfaced area adjace

    to a garage or drivew

    for parking

     purpose

    shall be permitted. 

    area shall not be loc

    in front of  the living

    of  the dwelling

    Maplewood  Cannot park on 

    unimproved locations Hard surfacing required

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    43/312

    Maple Grove

    Parking is not permitted 

    on any unapproved 

    surface, or any part of  

    the yard

    Must be paved surface

    Minneapolis

    A maximum of  two 

    vehicles per dwelling 

    unit may be parked on 

    an approved surface

    On an approved parking 

    surface

    Asphalt, concrete, brick 

    pavers, etc.

    Minnetonka

      Park on unimproved 

    surface

    Newport

    All parking and drive 

    areas must be paved 

    with asphalt, concrete or 

    other materials

    RVS must be located on 

    the driveway and on 

    private property

    RVs on an improved

    surface, abutting a 

    garage (2' from lot l

    North St. Paul

    Vehicles shall be parked 

    or stored on approved 

    surface

    Parking or storing 

    vehicles on the grass or 

    landscaped areas is 

    prohibited

    Asphalt, brick, concrete 

    pavers or concrete

    Northfield

    No vehicle, trailer, or 

    other personal property 

    shall be parked on an 

    unpaved surface for the 

    purpose of  displaying the 

    vehicle, trailer, or other 

    personal property for 

    hire, rental, or sale, 

    unless the applicable 

    zoning allows the use, 

    and the person or 

    business at that location 

    is licensed to sell 

    vehicles, trailers, or 

    other personal

     property

    No other motorized 

    vehicle parking shall be 

    located within an 

    unpaved surface in the 

    front or side yard.

    Oak Park 

    Heights

    No landscaping area shall 

    be used for the parking 

    of  vehicles or for the 

    storage or display of  

    materials, supplies or 

    merchandise

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    44/312

    Oakdale

    On residential 

    properties, parking is 

    limited to driveways only

    Driveway must be 

    concrete, bituminous or 

    brick

    Osseo

    Plymouth   Parking on grass

    Redwing

    All persoanl property 

    stored must be screened 

    from adjoining neighbors 

    and streets

    No person shall park or 

    store any  vehicle in the 

    required front yard of  

    any residential 

    districtexcept upon the 

    customary driveway 

    emplaced to provide 

    access to a garage 

    attached or adjacent to 

    the principal building, 

    carport, or

     a rear

     parking

     area.  Any of  the herein 

    vehicles parked within 

    the front yard, on a 

    driveway shall be parked 

    in such a manner as to 

    maintain all wheels and 

    trailer tongues on the 

    driveway surface.

    Boats and unoccupi

    trailers, less than th

    two (32) feet in leng

    are permissible if  sto

    in the side or rear ya

    no closer

     than

     two

     (

    feet distance from a

    property line.

    Richfield

    Park or place a vehicle in 

    yard on other than 

    established driveway 

    areas

    Robbinsdale  Vehicle

     parked

     in

     

    unapproved surface

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    45/312

    Rochester

    No person shall park in a 

    front yard in a residential 

    neighborhood except as 

    provided in parking 

    setbacks

    One additional space 

    outside of  the driveway 

    is permitted if  is is 

    pavement or permeable 

    (not gravel) but may not 

    be in required setback 

    for strcuture, the area 

    does not require more 

    than 20%

     of 

     the

     yard,

     

    access if  from the 

    driveway and not a new 

    drive or wider curb cut, 

    and must be landscaped

    Parking allowed so l

    as area is at least eig

    feet in width and th

    parking 

    area 

    is 

    pave

    Roseville

    Vehicles must be stored 

    on an improved surface. 

    Cars and trucks stored 

    on the grass is a violation

    St. Anthony

    All vehicles must be 

    parked 

    on 

    surface 

    paved with asphalt or 

    bituminous material, 

    concrete, cement, brick 

    or other paved surface, 

    or on a gravel driveway 

    located in front yard

    St. Cloud  You may not park on 

    grass, dirt or gravel

    Must be an improved, all‐

    weather service

    Must be located on 

    driveway or drivewa

    approach and m

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    46/312

    St. Paul

    All parking spaces, 

    driveways and off ‐street 

    parking facilities shall be 

    paved with standard or 

    pervious asphalt or 

    concrete, or with brick, 

    concrete, stone pavers, 

    or material comparable 

    to adjacent

     street

     

    surfacing

    Off ‐street parking spaces 

    shall not be located 

    within the front yard.

    White Bear 

    Lake

    PArking prohibited in 

    front and side yards 

    unless on driveway or 

    approved parking pad.

    Concrete, asphalt or 

    pavers, or stored in the 

    garage

    One open, hard surf

    space located on the

    of  the driveway or 

    garage is permitted

    shall not be located 

    the front of  the 

    residence

    Woodbury   Concrete or blacktop  RV: Not within 15' of  the 

    curb

    RV: Not within 5' of  

    proeprty line

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    47/312

    Type of Vehicle Permitted Location Numerical Restrictions

    Passenger automobiles, vans and trucks

    with a carrying capacity of one (1) ton or

    less.

    On the designated driveway or hard

    surfaced parking area as described in

    Subdivision 10.3, G .

    One (1) commercially licensed vehicle per

    lot.

    Large recreational vehicles such as travel

    trailers, motor homes, and pickups with

    slip – in campers thirty – six (36) feet or

    less in length.*

    On the designated driveway or hard

    surfaced parking area as described in

    Subdivision 10.3, G .

    One (1) per lot.

    Motorboats, sailboats, and unoccupied

    trailers twenty – five (25) feet or less in

    length.

    On the designated driveway or hard

    surfaced parking area as described in

    Subdivision 10.3, G , and also in the rear

    yard subject to setbacks for accessory

     buildings. No parking shall be allowed in

    corner side yards.

     No restriction.

    Other smaller recreational vehicles as

    defined herein such as motorcycles,

    snowmobiles, jet ski, etc.

    In interior side and rear yards subject to

    setbacks for accessory buildings. Not in

    corner side yards.

     No restriction.

    Table 10.3 – B: Types of Vehicles Permitted to be Parked on Residential Lots

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    48/312

    Draft  –  November  9, 2015 

     Draft Public Input Survey: Yard Parking

    Introduction: The City Council of the City of Stillwater has directed staff to work with

    the Planning Commission on the development of an ordinance which

    would regulate the parking of vehicles in yards. This ordinance would bedesigned to specifically address vehicles parked on unimproved surfaces

    in the front and side yards of properties.

    For the purposes of the ordinance, vehicles would be defined as either: 1)

    any vehicle or trailer designed to be street legal (regardless whether it is

    currently street legal or not, and regardless whether it is currently

    registered/licensed or not); or 2) any self-propelled or pull-behind

    recreational vehicles (whether designed to be used on public streets or

    not) , including, but not limited to, snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles,

    watercraft, golf carts. etc.

    Questions:

      The City should not regulate parking in rear yards.

      Based on the attached map, what neighborhood do you live in? (Multiple Choice)

    o  Dutchtown, Central or North or West Stillwater, North or South Hill

      Do you think yard parking is a problem in Stillwater? (Y/N)

      Is yard parking a problem in your neighborhood? (Y/N)

      Is yard parking a problem in other neighborhood? (Y/N)

    o  If so, which neighborhood(s) is yard parking a problem in? (Multiple Choice)

    o  Dutchtown, Central or North or West Stillwater, North or South Hill

     

    Should yard parking be regulated in Stillwater? (Y/N)  Should yard parking be regulated in all residential districts? (Y/N)

      Should yard parking be regulated in all districts? (Y/N)

      If yard parking was regulated, which of the following should it be applicable to:

    o  Cars, RVs and Campers, Trailers, ATV/Snowmobiles/Motorcycles

      Your definition of an improved surface includes:

    o  Asphalt, Concrete, Gravel, Paver, Brick, Hard Surface Strips

      True/False:

    o  The City should not regulate parking in yards.

    o  Parking in the front of the house should only be done on a driveway.

    The City should allow for parking pads to be developed on the side of a driveway.o  The City should allow for parking pads to be developed on the side of a house.

    o  Vehicles should be allowed to park on the side of the home on an unimproved

    surface (i.e. grass or landscaping).

    o  The City should not regulate the parking of vehicles behind the front line of the

    house.

    o  The City should not regulate parking on side yards where a fence is in place.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    49/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    50/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    51/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    52/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    53/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    54/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    55/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    56/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    57/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    58/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    59/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    60/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    61/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    62/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    63/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    64/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    65/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    66/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    67/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    68/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    69/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    70/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    71/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    72/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    73/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    74/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    75/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    76/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    77/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    78/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    79/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    80/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    81/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    82/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    83/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    84/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    85/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    86/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    87/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    88/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    89/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    90/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    91/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    92/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    93/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    94/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    95/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    96/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    97/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    98/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    99/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    100/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    101/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    102/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    103/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    104/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    105/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    106/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    107/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    108/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    109/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    110/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    111/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    112/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    113/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    114/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    115/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    116/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    117/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    118/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    119/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    120/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    121/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    122/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    123/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    124/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    125/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    126/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    127/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    128/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    129/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    130/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    131/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    132/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    133/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    134/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    135/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    136/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    137/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    138/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    139/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    140/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    141/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    142/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    143/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    144/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    145/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    146/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    147/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    148/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    149/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    150/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    151/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    152/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    153/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    154/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    155/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    156/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    157/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    158/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    159/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    160/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    161/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    162/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    163/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    164/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    165/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    166/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    167/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    168/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    169/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    170/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    171/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    172/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    173/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    174/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    175/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    176/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    177/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    178/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    179/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    180/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    181/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    182/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    183/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    184/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    185/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    186/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    187/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    188/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    189/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    190/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    191/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    192/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    193/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    194/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    195/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    196/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    197/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    198/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    199/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    200/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    201/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    202/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    203/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    204/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    205/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    206/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    207/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    208/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    209/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    210/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    211/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    212/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    213/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    214/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    215/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    216/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    217/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    218/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    219/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    220/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    221/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    222/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    223/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    224/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    225/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    226/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    227/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    228/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    229/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    230/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    231/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    232/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    233/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    234/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    235/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    236/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    237/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    238/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    239/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    240/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    241/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    242/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    243/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    244/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    245/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    246/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    247/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    248/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    249/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    250/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    251/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    252/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    253/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    254/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    255/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    256/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    257/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    258/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    259/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    260/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    261/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    262/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    263/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    264/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    265/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    266/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    267/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    268/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    269/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    270/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    271/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    272/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    273/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    274/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    275/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    276/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    277/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    278/312

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    279/312

    Planning Commission November 9, 2015

    Page 2 of 4

    gravel, adding that he would not want an ordinance to state that Class 5 is the only material that works.

    Commissioner Siess asked what if a resident put gravel all over their front yard? Ms. Wittman asked

    if the Commission like to set a maximum percentage of the front yard that may be surfaced. She

    summarized comments from the Commission that unimproved surfaces would be grass and dirt areas,and that improved areas would be asphalt, concrete and potentially gravel.

    Ms. Wittman then asked if the Commission would want to set a maximum number of vehicles allowedto be parked in a front yard. Commissioner Hansen remarked he feels the Commission may be starting

    to over-regulate something that isn’t as big a problem as it is made out to be. Commissioner Siess

    noted the number of vehicles parked in yards appears to be growing in her neighborhood. ChairmanKocon commented if he had one neighbor with a vehicle parked in the yard, he wouldn’t appreciate

    it. Commissioner Hansen replied that sounds like saying if someone has a lot in Stillwater, they have

    to choose whether to have a boat, a trailer, or a second car. He said he is not in favor of saying aresident can have only one vehicle, especially if side yards are considered. Commissioner Hade said

    he is inclined to not allow any parking in yards. Chairman Kocon said he is inclined to allow one

    vehicle to be parked in a yard.

    Ms. Wittman brought up side and rear yard parking, and said she will revisit the definition of front

    yard. She also brought up commercial versus residential property. Commissioners voiced the thoughtthat commercial property should be treated no differently than residential property. Ms. Wittman askedif maximum length of a vehicle should be addressed. Commissioner Siess suggested addressing height

    as well. Chairman Kocon commented that mass may be a better choice of words. Ms. Wittman said

    staff can look at what other communities have done in regard to mass of vehicles allowed.

    Ms. Wittman solicited comments about whether allowances should be made for yard parking for

    special events like block parties or graduation parties. Commissioner Fletcher noted it might be selfregulating, because if it’s a one-time event, neighbors are not likely to complain unless it’s chronic.

    Chairman Kocon added that if the penalty is to remove the vehicle, and it’s a one day event, then itwould be removed already by the time the ordinance would be enforced. He said for him, the true

    eyesore is the vehicle that has been parked there for a lengthy time period; if it’s a wedding, graduation party or church social one-time event, there’s less of an impact than looking at a huge SUV for several

    months. He pointed out the other issue is what will be done with the vehicles if they are to be removedor towed. He suggested incorporating a 24-hour notice to allow yard parking for one-day events.

    Commissioner Hade replied that could be problematic if someone goes fishing every weekend, for

    example, and parks a boat or trailer in their yard consistently. There would be a potential for violationeven though it is parked there for one day at a time.

    Ms. Wittman asked if the Commission would like the ordinance to address rolloff boxes in yards.Commissioner Hansen commented he doesn’t think the Commission should open Pandora’s box by

    including rolloff boxes in the ordinance. Commissioner Lauer agreed. Ms. Wittman noted the City

    gets a lot of phone calls about neighbors having a lot of things in their yard. The question has been brought up whether the City have an ordinance regulating dumpster storage bins on grass.Commissioner Siess stated the City could initiate a permit process for storage pods. Ms. Wittman

    stated a storage pod might be considered a general nuisance under the nuisance ordinance, but unless

    it poses a public safety hazard, there is not a lot the City can do, as there is no ordinance coveringexterior storage. Commissioner Hansen remarked if dumpsters and storage bins aren’t a huge issue

    right now, the Commission ought to let it be. That could change if it becomes a chronic issue.

    Chairman Kocon said he doesn’t like to see anything on the lawn, whether it’s a dumpster or a pod.He is ok with it being on an improved surface, but doesn’t want it sitting in the front yard.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    280/312

    Planning Commission November 9, 2015

    Page 3 of 4

    Commissioner Hansen responded that with a lot of the rolloff container companies, a resident wouldn’t

    want them parking on the driveway because they damage the driveway. Ms. Wittman recognized that

    maybe the issue of pods and dumpsters belongs in a different ordinance.

    Ms. Wittman summarized the discussion thus far: some changes to the definitions were suggested; the

    Commission supports establishing some maximum percentage of improved surface area; landscaping

    should be defined; the ordinance may be self regulating in terms of one-day events; someCommissioners want to limit the number of vehicles while some do not; the Commission wants to

    explore the definition of front yard and to have these provisions apply to front yards.

    Ms. Wittman stated she also heard the Commission wishes to explore length, height, mass and bulk

    limits; there should be no difference between commercial vs residential properties; there could be

    some sort of hourly exception, but the ordinance is designed for chronic and repeat offenders; theordinance will be limited to the storage of vehicles and will not address rolloff containers; also the

    word etcetera should be eliminated.

    Ms. Wittman summarized the City’s existing regulations regarding impervious surface coverage in thevarious districts. The next step is for staff to collect public input via a survey. She presented draft

    survey questions for review. Commissioner Fletcher suggested adding an open ended question askingfor any other concerns. Ms. Wittman stated the survey will go out within the next week or so. Resultswill be brought back to the Commission in mid-December. She anticipates having a public hearing

     before the Commission in January for a recommendation to the City Council, which would hold two

     public hearings in February as is done for every ordinance.

    Council Representative Junker commented he feels the ordinance should focus on the fact that the City

    wants to eliminate the RVs, boats, and multiple cars in the side or front yard. But there is still the possibility that someone will throw down a little Class 5 or pea rock, that barely covers the area on

    which the huge RV or boat will be on, and call it an impervious surface. Ms. Wittman responded thather direction from the Commission was that maybe gravel could be considered unimproved, maybe it

    could be considered improved; she will look at how other communities classify it.

    Chairman Kocon remarked that throwing gravel down in a yard would not be acceptable in his opinion.He would want to see a legitimate bordered parking area. For instance, pavers are a pervious surface

     but are an improvement over gravel. Maybe the ordinance needs to address all these improved

    surfaces.

    Eric Solberg, 2064 Oak Glen Drive, Stillwater, thanked the Planning Commission for working on the

    issue. He added there is a new example of the problem near Oak Glen. He said he realizes the City hasto help residents make this work for everybody, but feels the problem is increasing.

    OTHER ITEMS OF DISCUSSION 

    Staff Verbal Updates - 2016 Downtown Framework chapter of Comprehensive Plan

    City Planner Wittman informed the Commission that the Comprehensive Plan is due for an update by2018. Updates to the downtown framework chapter have begun. A downtown plan committee will be

    formed which will include a member of the Planning Commission. Commissioner Hade responded

    that living downtown, he may be interested in serving on the committee.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    281/312

    Planning Commission November 9, 2015

    Page 4 of 4

    ADJOURNMENT

    Motion by Commissioner Hade, seconded by Commissioner Fletcher, to adjourn the meeting at 8:10 p.m.

    All in favor, 7-0.

    Respectfully Submitted,

    Julie Kink

    Recording Secretary 

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    282/312

     

    PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES

    December 9, 2015

    REGULAR MEETING 7:00 P.M.

    Chairman Kocon called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.

    Present: Chairman Kocon, Commissioners Collins, Fletcher, Hade, Hansen, Kelly, Lauer,Middleton, Siess, Council Representative Junker

    Absent: None

    Staff: City Planner Wittman

    APPROVAL OF MINUTES

    Possible approval of November 9, 2015 meeting minutes

    Motion by Commissioner Collins, seconded by Commissioner Fletcher, to approve the November 9, 2015

    meeting minutes. All in favor, 9-0.

    Possible approval of September 9, 2015 meeting minutes

    Motion by Commissioner Lauer, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, to approve the September 9, 2015

    meeting minutes. All in favor, 9-0.

    OPEN FORUM

    There were no public comments.

    PUBLIC HEARINGS

    Case No. 2015-40  Request for approval of a Special Use Permit for a short term rental to be located at

    308 Chestnut Street East. John Atkins representing the estate of Scott Zahren, applicant.

    City Planner Wittman explained that the applicant is requesting a Special Use Permit for the

    conversion of a second story apartment into an overnight lodging unit. Two parking spaces would berequired. The owner has indicated that one parking space is currently being leased at the Shorty’s parking lot, a block to the west. Staff recommends approval with four conditions.

    Chairman Kocon opened the public hearing.

    John Atkins, applicant, stated he is appearing under difficult circumstances. He understands and is

    willing to comply with all Special Use Permit requirements including the payment of lodging taxes.

    The rental began shortly after July 4; its income allows the paying of legal fees, building insurance,

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    283/312

    Planning Commission December 9, 2015

    Page 2 of 5

    utility costs, and settlement of debts while ensuring The Wedge & Wheel, the first floor tenant, is not

    adversely impacted.

    Chairman Kocon closed the public hearing.

    Commissioner Siess asked if the City Council has discussed regulation of VRBOs.

    Council Representative Junker replied that the Council has not discussed VRBOs in 2015. It appears

    there are other spaces downtown that could easily be converted, so he felt it warrants Council

    discussion.

    Motion by Commissioner Middleton, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, to approve a Special Use

    Permit for a short term rental to be located at 308 Chestnut Street East, with conditions recommended bystaff. All in favor, 9-0.

    UNFINISHED BUSINESS 

    Yard Parking - Survey Results and Ordinance Direction

    City Planner Wittman stated that at the Commission’s last regularly scheduled meeting, theCommission discussed yard parking and directed staff to solicit public input. Ms. Wittman recapped

    that discussion. She summarized survey results. Generally, those surveyed do not park on their lawns

    and do not think yard parking is a problem in Stillwater but would like to see it regulated. Staff expectsto present a draft ordinance for Commission consideration in January.

    Commission consensus was to accept the definition of a vehicle proposed by staff, with the possibleaddition of work equipment as suggested by Chairman Kocon. Commissioners voiced agreement with

    the maximum driveway width at the curb being 16’.

    Ms. Wittman noted that parking pads could be defined as a 10’ x 30’ asphalt or gravel area. ChairmanKocon suggested if the City regulates the percentage of impervious surface on a property, there also

    should be regulation of driveway and parking pad installation. He stated that he would like to see a permit required for installation of a new driveway or other impervious surface on a property, including

    sport courts.

    Commissioner Hansen countered that the existing impervious surface restrictions could be used as the

    regulating factor. Chairman Kocon pointed out that if the percentage of impervious surface is the only

    control, then a property owner with a very large lot could install an overly large parking pad. CityPlanner Wittman added that not all residential districts have maximum impervious surface coverage

    restrictions.

    Commissioner Hansen asked if the ordinance could specify a square footage allowed rather thanspecific dimensions of 10’ x 30’. He encouraged the Commission to think outside the box because notall properties are the same. An ordinance needs to consider all types of property in the City.

    The Commission agreed that there should be a square footage maximum and that a property owner

    should not be permitted to increase the amount of impervious surface beyond the maximum allowed

    in the district.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    284/312

    Planning Commission December 9, 2015

    Page 3 of 5

    City Planner Wittman asked how the Commission felt about setbacks. Consensus on the Commission

    was that the sideyard area should have a minimum setback.

    Commissioner Hansen asked if there would be a way to grant variances to the restrictions beingdiscussed. Ms. Wittman replied that a property owner may apply for a variance to zoning restrictions

     pertaining to a number, but not for a completely different use than allowed in the district.

    Commissioner Fletcher said it was apparent from reading survey comments that there are a lot of

     people concerned about the issue. She pointed out that because enforcement is complaint-driven, even

    if the rules are put in place, they may not be enforced unless someone is complaining. City PlannerWittman confirmed that the City does not have a dedicated zoning enforcement officer, so staff may

    not be aware of a violation.

    Commissioner Kelly commented if a parking pad has to be contiguous to a driveway then he assumed

    no parking would be allowed in the rear yard either. He mentioned that the survey speaks strongly

    toward parking in rear yards being just as big a problem as parking in front yards. Commissioner

    Fletcher said she was less concerned about regulating parking in the rear as it impacts fewer peoplethan front yard parking which is visible to anyone traveling on the street.

    Commissioner Hansen noted he felt strongly that the approach should be as minimal as possible tostart off, such as simply prohibiting parking on the grass in the front yard. He felt the number of

     properties in question is so small, it doesn’t warrant going through a bunch of steps to regulate.

    Council Representative Junker voiced concern about categorizing gravel as an improved surface;

    throwing some gravel down beside a garage should not be considered an improved surface.

    Chairman Kocon said he doesn’t envision allowing someone to throw down a bucket of gravel on their

    grass and consider it improved, but that gravel can be considered an improved surface if done right.

    Commissioner Kelly said if the City regulates only the front and side yards, it will likely push the problem to the back yard, as people will probably park their RVs in the backyard. Chairman Kocon

    agreed he would not want to see a huge RV parked in his neighbor’s backyard.

    Commissioner Middleton asked if a parking pad is contiguous in the front yard, isn’t it just really an

    enlargement of the driveway? He said he would prefer setting a maximum allowable square footageof impervious surface coverage, rather than designating 10’ x 30’ as the maximum space for a parking pad.

    Commissioner Kelly suggested, in zoning districts where there are no restrictions, limiting the

    driveway to the width of the garage plus a maximum additional 30’ x 10’ or an extra 300 square feet

    and also restricting the setbacks.

    City Planner Wittman asked if the Commissioners’ intent would be to regulate what is visible fromthe street as opposed to what is visible to the neighbors. Chairman Kocon suggested taking a straw

     poll.

    Commissioner Hade remarked it’s human nature that a property owner will put a vehicle on the lot

    line, not next to their own house - that’s why setbacks are needed.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    285/312

    Planning Commission December 9, 2015

    Page 4 of 5

    Chairman Kocon called for a straw poll to find some measurables, for instance, a driveway can’t be

    wider than a garage and a property owner may add 300 square feet of parking pad contiguous to the

    garage as long as the driveway and the parking pad do not encroach into the setback. Also, the

    maximum impervious surface for the lot may not be violated.

    Commissioner Hansen suggested first establishing that this will be a zoning ordinance, that it should

     be drafted in a way that allows for variances, otherwise it will create rules that some people won’t beable to meet. He added that he would like to build in a relief valve for those who seasonally park in

    their yard to avoid parking on the street. City Planner Wittman pointed out that the violation of parking

    on grass would be covered under the nuisance ordinance.

    City Planner Wittman summarized the discussion: generally speaking, the Commission would like to

    see the front yard area reserved for parking as opposed to the back yard; no more than 50% of the frontyard to be impervious, as long as it doesn’t exceed the maximum impervious surface coverage for the

     property; the Commission is not opposed to seeing a parking pad alongside a garage as long as the

    maxim;um front and side yard impervious surface coverage is not exceeded and it doesn’t encroach

    into a sideyard setback area; concrete and asphalt are considered improved surfaces; the Commissionwould like to allow for provisions for variances for placement and width of parking pads; there may

     be other materials the Commission could consider to be impervious surface.

    Commissioner Middleton expressed concern that if there is no permit process, the situation becomes

    more a matter of relationship with one’s neighbors.

    On a straw vote of whether a permit should be required to put in a new driveway or a parking pad, all

    Commissioners felt a permit should be required, except Commissioner Hansen.

    City Planner Wittman informed the Commission she had enough direction to draft an ordinance for

    the Commission’s consideration. The ordinance would cover new construction or changes toimpervious surface coverage; it would not apply to existing non-conforming situations.

    Commissioner Middleton brought up Chairman Kocon’s concern, expressed in the November

    meeting, about the mass of vehicles. For instance, a ’65 Corvette has less impact than a big hulk of anRV. He asked why the Commission isn’t dealing with the issue of mass. City Planner Wittman

    acknowledged unless length times width times height is specified, there is no way to address mass.

    STAFF UPDATES 

    System Statement

    City Planner Wittman informed the Commission that the Comprehensive Plan update is beginning.

    She presented a memo indicating that the City Council has accepted the Metropolitan Council’sSystem Statement, after clarification from Metropolitan Council staff about anticipated ruralresidential development patterns. Commissioner Hade asked if there has been further talk of better bus

    service for Stillwater. Ms. Wittman replied that the Met Council’s Thrive 2040 plan includes a goal

    of daily service to Stillwater 6-8 times per day.

    ADJOURNMENT

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    286/312

    Planning Commission December 9, 2015

    Page 5 of 5

    Motion by Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Fletcher, to adjourn the meeting at 8:55

     p.m. All in favor, 9-0.

    Respectfully Submitted,

    Julie Kink

    Recording Secretary 

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    287/312

     

    PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES

    January 13, 2016

    REGULAR MEETING 7:00 P.M.

    Chairman Kocon called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.

    Present: Chairman Kocon, Commissioners Collins, Fletcher, Hade, Hansen, Lauer, Middleton,Siess, Council Representative Menikheim

    Absent: Commissioner KellyStaff: City Planner Wittman

    APPROVAL OF MINUTES

    Possible approval of December 9, 2015 meeting minutes

    Motion by Commissioner Fletcher, seconded by Commissioner Collins, to approve the December 9, 2015meeting minutes. All in favor, 8-0.

    OPEN FORUM

    There were no public comments.

    PUBLIC HEARINGS

    Case No. 2016-01  Request for an amendment to an existing Special Use Permit for mechanical upgradesto Oak Park Elementary School, located at 6355 Osman Avenue North. BWBR, Inc., on behalf ofStillwater Area Schools, applicant.

    City Planner Wittman explained that the applicant is requesting an amendment to an existing SpecialUse Permit for the installation of a new 160 ton chiller to be located on the north side of Oak ParkElementary School. The approximately 19’  long, 8’ wide and 8’  tall unit will be enclosed in a 36’ long, 23’  wide and 10’  tall area. The inside of the chiller yard will contain concrete “hush quilt” material. The noise from the unit is estimated to be 43 decibels at 100 feet, well under the 55 maximum

    nighttime restriction for residential districts. The exterior of the enclosure will be a reinforced brickmasonry product of the same color and tone as the existing structure. Staff recommends approval withone condition.

    Commissioner Hansen asked if there is any chance the noise would approach maximum decibel levels.

    Tony Willger, Operations Manager for Stillwater Area Schools, replied that according to themanufacturer, the sound deadening blankets will absorb the noise and it should not exceed themaximum decibel level. The equipment usually won’t run past 4 p.m.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    288/312

    Planning Commission January 13, 2016

    Page 2 of 7

    Chairman Kocon opened the public hearing.

    Rob Sancartier, 216 Owens Street South, an HVAC service technician, questioned why the district is proposing a huge unit, spending a lot of money and working with a large company for a quick fixrather than hiring a smaller local company. He also expressed general concerns about the timing ofthe proposal and traffic throughout the city.

    Chairman Kocon closed the public hearing.

    Commissioners Hansen and Collins voiced support for the proposal.

    Motion by Commissioner Middleton, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, to recommend to the CityCouncil that an amendment to an existing Special Use Permit for mechanical upgrades to Oak ParkElementary School, located at 6355 Osman Avenue North, be approved with the condition recommended by staff. All in favor, 8-0.

    Case No. 2016-02 Request for an amendment to an existing Special Use Permit for mechanical upgrades

    to Lily Lake Elementary School, located at 2003 West Willard Street. BWBR, Inc., on behalf of StillwaterArea Schools, applicant.

    City Planner Wittman explained the request. An amendment to an existing Special Use Permit issought for the installation of a new 160 ton chiller to be located on the north side of Lily LakeElementary School. The approximately 19’  long, 8’ wide and 8’  tall unit will be enclosed in a 36’ long, 24’  wide and 10’  tall area. The inside of the chiller yard will contain concrete “hush quilt” material. The installation would result in a loss of parking spaces; however there would still be asurplus of 49 spaces more than required. The structure would 100 feet from the nearest residential property line. The estimated noise would be 43 decibels at 100 feet. The exterior of the enclosure will be a reinforced brick masonry product with the same color and tone as the existing structure. Staff

    recommends approval with one condition.

    Commissioner Siess asked how Lily Lake staff feels about the proposal. Mr. Willger replied he hadheard no concerns voiced by school staff. Commissioner Siess asked if the applicant had asked thePTA about the proposal and Mr. Willger replied no.

    Commissioner Middleton asked if multiple rooftop units were considered. Mr. Willger replied yes, but it would have presented more sound concerns.

    Chairman Kocon opened the public hearing. There were no public comments. The public hearing wasclosed.

    Commissioner Siess stated whenever there is an event at Lily Lake school, the parking situation isawful and there are no appropriate places to park in surrounding neighborhoods. She said she opposesthe proposal due to the reduction of seven parking spaces.

    Chairman Kocon responded that the Downtown Parking Commission sets parking requirements whichare met under the proposal.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    289/312

    Planning Commission January 13, 2016

    Page 3 of 7

    Motion by Commissioner Lauer, seconded by Commissioner Hade, to recommend to the City Councilthat an amendment to an existing Special Use Permit for mechanical upgrades to Lily Lake ElementarySchool, located at 2003 West Willard Street, be approved with the condition recommended by staff.Motion passed 7-1 with Commissioner Siess voting nay.

    Case No. 2016-03 Request for an amendment to an existing Special Use Permit for mechanical upgradesto Stillwater Junior High School, located at 523 Marsh Street West. BWBR, Inc., on behalf of TonyWillger, Stillwater Area Schools, applicant.

    City Planner Wittman explained that the applicant is requesting an amendment to an existing SpecialUse Permit for the installation of a new 160 ton chiller to be located on the north side of StillwaterJunior High. The approximately 19’ long, 8’ wide and 8’ tall unit will be enclosed in a 59’ long, 25’ wide and 10’ tall area. The inside of the chiller yard will contain concrete “hush quilt”  material. Theexterior of the enclosure will be a reinforced brick masonry product with the same color and tone asthe existing structure. The nearest residential property lines are more than 500 feet away. Theinstallation of the improvement will necessitate the removal of five parking spaces on the east side ofa 14-stall parking lot. The applicant is proposing retaining the western stalls in an angled fashion. The proposed configuration of these parking spaces does not meet the City’s design requirements, therefore

    staff has determined there will be a net loss of 11 parking spaces. Despite the reduction in parkingspaces, there will still be a surplus of nine parking spaces. Staff recommends approval with onecondition.

    Commissioner Siess recalled a lot of community concerns about traffic that were related to the ECFEcenter. Mr. Willger stated the District has not explored replacing the lost parking spaces because itwould cause loss of green space.

    Motion by Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Collins, to recommend to the City Councilthat an amendment to an existing Special Use Permit for mechanical upgrades to Stillwater Junior High,located at 523 Marsh Street West, be approved with the condition recommended by staff. Motion passed

    7-1, with Commissioner Siess voting nay.

    Case No. 2016-04 Consideration of adoption of new regulations pertaining to parking vehicles on yardareas. City of Stillwater, applicant.

    City Planner Wittman summarized discussions from the last few meetings. She reviewedmodifications to City Code proposed by staff as a result of the discussions and direction by the CityCouncil. She also presented a legislative version for a complete description of all modifications proposed. She noted the City Council has a public hearing scheduled for February 2. Ms. Wittmanalso stated that the concept of establishing a permitting process for driveways was discussed withPublic Works Director Sanders; Mr. Sanders felt that a permit process may be a good idea, but the

    City would need to establish driveway standards first.

    Commissioner Hansen asked if the proposed ordinance includes a definition of the allowable surfaces.He said if the City begins requiring permits for driveways based on design standards, then he thinksthe standards should include some options for pervious material for driveways.

    Chairman Kocon opened the public hearing.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    290/312

    Planning Commission January 13, 2016

    Page 4 of 7

    Rob Sancartier, 216 Owens Street South, spoke in opposition to the proposed regulations. He feelsstrongly that it infringes on property owners’ rights to own vehicles and work on them in their ownyards, especially those who cannot afford to rent space to park them elsewhere. He feels there is toomuch governmental control in general.

    Jim Hansen, 1303 Fifth Avenue South, asked why concrete or bituminous are required, but not gravelwhich is more pervious. He has gravel alongside his house and has not had a problem with runoff. Hevoiced complaints about lack of City communication about the issue.

    Eric Solberg, 2064 Oak Glen Drive, stated the proposed ordinance doesn’t appear to address the issueof vehicle size. He suggested establishing a maximum size for a parking stall which would limit thesize of the vehicle it could accommodate. He also asked how the ordinance would apply to existingsituations, whether they would be grandfathered in. Ms. Wittman replied that existing non-compliant parking areas would be in violation of the ordinance. Mr. Solberg went on to state he feels there is stilla need to consider Class 5 surfaces as there are a number of properties that currently have Class 5driveways. He also said that permits without standards are useless.

     Natalie Seum, 2160 Oak Glen Trail, agreed with Mr. Solberg’s comments. She expressed concerns

    about her property value because her sunroom faces a property with a boat covered by a huge tarp.

    Katie Friend, 1901 Oak Glen Lane, related that her neighbors have a giant motorhome that blocks herview. She is worried about property values and feels the current proposal does not address the size ofvehicles.

    Steve Zoller, 2316 Oakridge Road, recognized that some RV owners are responsible in trying to lessenthe impacts on neighbors. He went through great expense to get his own motorhome off the street and bought a cover for it to match his house so it would blend in. He has not drawn a complaint in sixyears.

    Dan Fabian, 326 South Sixth Street, stated his driveway is on the property line, so he is concernedabout possibly being required to move his driveway in the future, or to obtain a permit or variance. Hefeels if the issue isn’t a big problem, the City should be careful not to take away personal propertyrights. He recognized Class 5 is not much more pervious than asphalt, but there are other pervioussurfaces to consider.

    John Colburn, 224 Willow Street East, stated that his property has no backyard; he owns a boat andsmall RV so they must be in the side yard. He reiterated concerns about property owners’ rights, asexpressed by Mr. Fabian and Mr. Zoller. He feels that adopting the proposed regulations would beakin to adding covenants. He asked the Commission to consider allowing parking on pavers, pea rockand other surfaces. He has researched case law offering definitions of visual blight, and noted that

    other cities have stayed away from this issue.

    Tammy Olson, 1710 North Broadway, said she is very concerned about lack of City communicationabout the hearing. She asked the Commission to consider unique properties and not over-regulate. Shewould like to be able to manage her property as she feels best.

    Todd Reich, 422 Pine Tree Trail, noted he paid $850 for a water project to stop runoff. He feels theCity would be going backward by allowing pads. He finds long grass plantings at corners moreoffensive than any trailers he has seen.

  • 8/19/2019 Stillwater Yard Parking Amendment

    291/312

    Planning Commission January 13, 2016

    Page 5 of 7

    Chairman Kocon closed the public hearing. The meeting was recessed at 8:50 p.m. and reconvened at8:55 p.m.

    City Planner Wittman explained the process used to survey residents, and summarized the publicoutreach that was done, including sending press releases to all local papers, advertising the publicinput survey, discussing it at the Commission’s November and December meetings, and sending noticeof the survey through the City’s direct email system to 660 individuals who signed up for communitynotices. 297 survey responses were received. 20% indicated they do park or have parked on theirlawns. 54% said they did not think yard parking was a problem, but 61% still wanted to see it regulated.78 respondents stated front yard parking should be regulated. About half indicated side yard parkingor backyard parking should be regulated.

    Chairman Kocon recapped comments received during the public hearing, and reminded the audiencethat the Council will make the final decision on the ordinance. He feels other pervious surfaces should be allowed such as gravel.

    Commissioner Middleton spoke about alternative surfaces that he would like to include and encourage.

    Commissioner Hansen agreed that pervious surfaces should be allowed. He pointed out that theCouncil requested an ordinance be drafted to regulate yard parking. He feels pavers are a goodsolution, but that doesn’t eliminate the issue of yard parking.

    Councilmember Menikheim informed the Commission that initially, a citizen approached the Councilabout visual blight and aesthetics of yard parking. He feels the Commission’s discussions will givethe Council a larger knowledge base.

    Commissioner Middleton said it seems the Commission is trying to address blight by using a code toregulate surfaces. The issue that the Commission spoke about in December at length was the aesthetic

    of vehicles being parke