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Council approves Hermantown Cottages PUD over resident objections about setbacks and screening
Summary
The council approved a planned-unit development for a 10-acre Hermantown site that will add 20 townhome units; nearby residents warned a 20-foot setback and limited screening would subject units to traffic noise and diesel fumes. The council approved the PUD by roll call despite a mayoral 'No.'
The Hermantown City Council voted to approve a planned-unit development (PUD) proposed by KTJ 360 LLC (the Hermantown Cottages) after staff outlined site design, utilities and mitigation measures and nearby residents voiced concerns about setbacks and screening.
Planning staff described the project as a 10-acre development in the northeastern quadrant of LaVaque and Maple Grove roads that would include 10 buildings with 20 two-bedroom townhome units. "The applicant is proposing 10 townhomes, 20 units total, 2 bedroom units with approximately 1,400 square foot of living space," planning staff said, and the proposal would provide two parking spaces per unit, enlarge on-site stormwater ponds and dedicate a 30-foot easement for public mains the applicant would build.
Staff told the council the applicant agreed to escrow $50,000 to help construct a trail connecting Maple Grove Road to the city’s future trail system. Staff also said traffic estimates show roughly 180 new daily trips associated with the 20 units and that the site contains no wetlands.
Two nearby residents came to the podium during the public-comment portion of the PUD agenda item. "The setback from the public high public highways is 20 feet, and you're gonna have a residence sitting 20 feet from Maple Grove Road with the traffic on that road," said Matt Buderak of 4089 Lake Road, who asked whether the 20-foot setback (he said the normal R-3 setback is 50 feet) would expose residents to excessive noise and diesel fumes. A second speaker at the same address echoed concerns about proximity to the road and screening, saying the proposal felt inappropriate for older residents and expressed worry about traffic noise and fumes.
Eric Martin, speaking for Oppiden and partner KGDay 316, said the developer believes the project "will continue to serve and fill a need in the community of Hermantown" and offered to answer council questions.
After discussion, the council took a roll-call vote. The clerk recorded four "Aye" votes and one "No" from the mayor, and the resolution approving the PUD passed.
The council’s action authorizes the project to proceed through the remaining planning and permitting steps; staff noted the escrow for the trail and public utility responsibilities will be memorialized in the development approvals. The planning files will be available with the city clerk for any party that requests them.
Next steps: The developer will work with staff on final engineering and permitting; the council will receive any required follow-up materials when bids, engineering or conditions return to the agenda.
