HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-02-07 Planner Memorandum for 02-14-13 PC Packet TP 3601 Thurston Avenue N, Suite 100
Anoka, MN 55303 ENCLOSURE Phone: 763.231 .5840
Facsimile: 763.427.0520
TPCQPianningCo.com
MEMORANDUM
TO: Eric Johnson
FROM: Scott Richards
DATE: February 7, 2013
RE: Oak Park Heights — Former Denny Hecker Car Dealership Site,
12969 60 Street North - Redevelopment Planning — Planning
Commission Discussion
TPC FILE: 236.09
BACKGROUND
At the January 10, 2013 meeting, The Planning Commission discussed the
redevelopment site options for the former Denny Hecker car dealership site at 12969
60 Street North. The purpose of this study is to allow the Planning Commission and
City Council to strategize about redevelopment and determine if the current land use
classification and zoning is appropriate for this site.
The Planning Commission offered their ideas for the optimal use of the site at the
January meeting. The ideas ranged from a hotel /conference site, community center,
fitness center, park and ride, and a multi story redevelopment that would include first
floor retail and upper story apartments or condominiums. It was suggested that the
owners of the site attend the next Planning Commission to discuss the property.
The property has recently been purchased by The Excelsior Group LLC
(excelsiorllc.com). Joe Boone will be present at the February 14, 2013 meeting to
discuss the property with the Planning Commission. In a conversation with Mr. Boone,
he indicated that the first priority for his company is to take the building from a dormant
state and to activate the water service, heat the building and connect the power. The
current intent of the Excelsior Group is to market the property for the following uses:
1. Retail
2. Auto Dealership
3. Fitness Center
He suggested that the Excelsior Group will work closely with the City in reuse or
redevelopment of the site to uses that are appropriate. I indicated that the City is also
interested in assisting the developer in working through the development review
process and, if necessary, making changes to the Comprehensive Plan or Zoning for
the site to accommodate development that is appropriate for this area.
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