Downs reminded the members that they first presented this project in conceptual form back in December and since then they have collaborated with staff and now wish formal approval. He stated that everyone is very excited about the project He clarified that they are proposing 145 parking spaces under the building; not 140 as stated on Page 13 of staff’s report.

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Chairman Lichtenfeld asked if the audience had any comments about the rezoning request.

Jeff Nornberg asked how the number of parking spaces can be justified when the number implies that no one has two vehicles.

Mr. Downs stated that a total of 175 spaces are being provided; 145 under the building nad an additional 30 across the street. He stated that 65% of the units are 1 bedroom, studio or alcove units and their target market are those who like to walk or use public transit (noting the property is only 3 blocks from a MetroLink Station). He stated that they feel confident in the amount of parking they are proposing.

Suzie Forsyth, 159 North Central Avenue, stated that she is thrilled something will be done on the corner and relies on the people to do the best they can. She voiced her support of the rezoning.

Kent Kalkwarf, 168 North Central Avenue, questioned the occupancy of Clayton on the Park. He then noted that The Crossing development will be coming to town soon as well as apartments across Brown Shoe, for a total of between 600-700 new residential units in downtown. He asked if Clayton has a target number of units they want to add to the City.

Chairman Lichtenfeld stated that there is no set number and that an increase in residential units means an increase in street life and retail.

Craig Owens commented that while there is no established number, an independent study was conducted and that within a 5 mile radius, 4,000 units would be the demand and that the City is well within that at this time.

Mr. Kalkwarf stated that 4 years ago he didn’t move his business to Clayton because of the parking problems.

Rita Nornberg, 328 North Bemiston Avenue, thinks it’s nice that this project will bring in young people, but those young people have friends and those friends have cars.

Ms. Kalkwarf asked if the developer is asking for tax abatements.

Chairman Lichtenfeld indicated that is not something this Commission considers.

Ms. Kalkwarf asked what the rental fees will be.

Chairman Lichtenfeld stated that she can ask the developer that question, but that, too, is something not pertinent to this discussion.

Sally Cohn questioned if the green roof was Graybar’s idea.

Chairman Lichtenfeld stated that she can ask the developer that question, but that, too, is something not pertinent to this discussion. Sally Cohn questioned if the green roof was Graybar’s idea.

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Mr. Downs stated that they thought the west facing green roof would be special.

Sally Cohn stated that’s why the storm water run-off numbers are down. She added that the green roof may be a public benefit, but not the parking.

Chairman Lichtenfeld stated that not all the public benefits listed have to be provided.

Sally Cohn voiced her concern regarding parking. She stated that she would hate a missed opportunity at the 111 site to provide more parking.

Jim Curley, 139 North Central Avenue, informed the members that the parking at 111 is tied to the 25 North Central Avenue building.

Sally Cohn questioned if that matters.

Mr. Curley indicated that it’s never been public parking.

Mr. Downs commented that parking is typically a concern and a point of discussion and asked that the City consider the parking study which states that the project will meet the parking demand and that their project is not being asked to resolve a greater issue.

Hank Winkleman, 7405 Maryland Avenue, asked that the needs of the community be considered and how this project affects everyone is critical.

Lee Cannon, Crawford, Bunte & Brammeier, traffic engineer, (preparer of the parking study) stated that he looked at the industry standard, the City’s parking regulations, the current project, COTP and the public when preparing the study. He stated that they believe the 175 parking spaces provided is more than adequate. He reminded everyone that they (applicant/developer) own the property and have to be able to rent out those units. He stated that they would be comfortable with any number over 165 and they are providing 175.

Chairman Lichtenfeld asked if Mr. Cannon had any comments regarding traffic.

Mr. Cannon stated that Clayton is on a grid with connections to major interstates. He stated that they preferred access from the alley, which is being improved to 24-feet, which basically results in a 2-way street, noting that over time, the City wants to narrow Central Avenue. He stated that residential opportunities with retail are needed to reduce traffic.

Sally Cohn commented that COTP is different due to its location; this project isn’t close to the Central Business District and downtown retail. She added that she would love to get cars off the road to utilize mass transit.

Motion carries. SUBDIVISION PLAT – 25 NORTH CENTRAL AVENUE

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Susan Istenes explained that the plat consolidates five existing lots (Lots 10-12 and parts of Lots 13 & 14, Block 5 in the Town (now City) of Clayton) that have historically been under common ownership and addressed as 25 North Central Avenue and also provides for an 800 square foot right-of-way dedication to the City along the southern alley to allow it to be widened to meet city standards. The consolidated lot will measure 31,942 square feet. Susan stated that staff is of the opinion that the lot is consistent with the lots located in the immediate area with regard to size, frontage and arrangement and recommends approval to the Board of Aldermen with the following conditions:

Subdivision Ordinance requirements after Board of Aldermen approval;