PUBLIC HEARING: Consider Resolution #21-008 for Site Plan and Final Plat for GiGi's Salon and Spa (Project #20-140)

The purpose of this case is to review a proposal from GiGi's Salon and Spa (the "Applicant") for a final plat and site plan review for a proposed salon on the corner of Zeolite Street, Veterans Drive, and Sunwood Drive. The proposed site is currently owned by the City of Ramsey and the Applicant has an active purchase agreement with the City. The Subject Property is approximately 3.14 acres with 1.42 acres being platted as a buildable lot for Gigi's Salon. The remaining acreage will be platted as two separate outlots, one for the City to maintain for a well, and one for a buildable lot to sell in the future.

The City attempted to notify Property Owners, as reflected in the Anoka County Property Records, within 700 feet of the Subject Property of the request. The Public Hearing Notice was also properly posted in the Anoka County UnionHerald, the City's Official Newsletter. 

 

Proposed Use
This is a unique use with a juice bar, salon, small areas for outdoor dining, and anticipated 30 employees. The proposed parking does feel adequate for the proposed use. The plans provided show a total of 50 parking spaces including 2 handicap parking spaces. The amount of parking feels appropriate for the use.

Land Use and Zoning
The Property is guided as Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan and is zoned The COR. The intent of the Mixed Use land use designation is to allow for the construction of a variety of uses including retail, commercial, entertainment, office, institutional, high density residential, transit hubs and park and recreation uses with access to municipal sewer and water. The proposed use is consistent with this land use guidance. The project is located within the COR 2 Commercial subdistrict. This subdistrict is intended to provide space for commercial operations with a mix of large and small floor plates accommodating auto-oriented uses. The use of a salon meets the intent of this district.

Proposed Subdivision
The Applicant is purchasing a piece of the Subject Property from the City, and platting the remainder into two outlots, one for the well onsite, and one for a future buildable lot.

Architecture
The proposed architecture is closer to compliance with the intent of the COR guidelines, but requires final approval by the City Council. Staff is looking for specific feedback on the architecture tonight.

Alternatives
Alternative 1: Motion to recommend the City Council adopt the Resolution to approve the final plat and site plan with contingencies for Staff to work with the Applicant to revise the plan sheets to conform with City Code.

Alternative 2: Motion to recommend the City Council deny the Resolution to approve the final plat and site plan. Staff is not supportive of this alternative, as the use is allowed. Instead, the Planning Commission should note any specific items that need to be modified.

The Applicant is responsible for all costs associated with project review. Please note that this project does include a land transaction with the City, as the entire site is currently owned by the City of Ramsey.

Staff is supportive of the project and recommends approval of Resolution #21-008.

Motion to recommend that the City Council adopt Resolution #21-008 approving the site plan and final plat for GiGi's Salon and Spa.