Resolution 6712 - Laserfiche WebLink

Staff Comment: In addition to an unusual configuration and the presence of critical areas along the east site, the site has a sloping topography which will allow the townhomes to be elevated above 19th Ave SE, affording lake views from many of the townhomes. 2. The positive characteristics of the proposed development and whether such characteristics could be provided by compliance with the development standards and/or design guidelines proposed to be modified. Staff Comment: The project will provide over 15,500 s.f. of landscaped open spaces dispersed throughout the site, in a manner that provides direct access to open space from each of the townhouse units. This direct access would not be possible with typical apartment style blocks. 3. The arrangement of buildings and open spaces as they relate to other buildings and/or uses on the subject property and on surrounding properties. Staff Comment: The primary purpose of the standard is to ensure access to sun and light for outdoor portions of the site. This is particularly critical with more massive (wider and taller) apartment blocks than with the relatively low and narrow profile of the townhouses. In addition, assuming no intervening fences are along the right-of-way line, the orientation of 33 townhomes along 19th Ave NE with vehicle access behind the buildings will result in an open and attractive streetscape for the project. The applicant has not provided a fencing plan for the entire site, except a rail fence is proposed along the edge of the stream buffer . See recommended condition No. 28. 4. Visual impact to surrounding properties caused by parking facilities in the proposed development and whether such impacts are less than would result from compliance with the development standards and/or design guidelines proposed to be modified. Staff Comment: Parking is dispersed throughout the site. Most spaces will be located in garages and driveways in front of units. There are guest parking spaces located in four locations along the private access drive, interior to the site. 5. If the developer proposes greater building height than permitted by the zone in which the property is located, does the increase in building height result in an increase in the usable open space on the property over what would be provided by meeting the development standards and design guidelines proposed to be modified? Staff Comment: Not applicable. 6. If the development proposes greater building height than permitted by the zone in which the property is located, does the increase in building height impact the views or privacy of abutting residentially zoned properties? Staff Comment: Not applicable 7. Does the proposed development result in a mix of permitted residential and commercial uses allowed by the zoning in which the property is located which would not result from compliance with the development standards and/or design guidelines proposed to be modified? 9