City Council Faces Tough Choices on Development Plans

During a recent government meeting, council members engaged in a detailed discussion regarding development plans in Lake Elmo, focusing on the challenges of balancing density requirements with infrastructure needs. The conversation highlighted concerns about the existing comprehensive plan, which allows for high and medium-density housing in areas that may not support such development due to infrastructure limitations.

One council member expressed frustration with the mathematical complexities involved in meeting density targets while ensuring adequate street and utility infrastructure. They suggested potential adjustments, such as reducing lot widths and increasing the number of townhomes, but raised the question of whether these changes would be sufficient to satisfy the council's requirements.

Another council member emphasized the importance of adhering to established codes and expressed a preference for more attached townhomes within the medium-density residential category. However, Councilmember Wextrom voiced a dissenting opinion, stating that the city is not ready for development due to unresolved water issues, which he believes must be addressed before any new projects are approved.

The discussion also touched on the procedural aspects of development applications, with members clarifying that the current request was not for immediate approval but rather to initiate an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) that would remain valid for five years.

As the meeting progressed, the council reviewed the Lake Elmo village vision study, which included findings from public engagement and policy recommendations. The next steps in the planning process were also outlined, indicating a continued commitment to refining development strategies in alignment with community needs and infrastructure capabilities.