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4. CUP Eckankar Church I THYA i 4 c B I ,,L1 AN EN 1 _,_, , 690 COULTER DRIVE • P.O. BOX 147 • CHANHASSEN, MINNESOTA 55317 (612) 937-1900 y;rtj,,,n ter r,,, ,....7.0....,,Yh* MEMORANDUM ITO: Don Ashworth, City Manager FROM: Stephen Hanson, Planning Director '$' DATE: April 4 , 1989 ISUBJ: Eckankar - Conditional Use Permit #89-1 y_/o49 I The Planning Commission held a public hearing on th conditional use permit for Eckankar at their regular meeting on March 1, 1989, and recommended approval of Case #89-1 by a 4 to 1 vote with 2 members absent. The approval was subject to several con- ditions .ditions . The applicants submitted a letter at the Planning Commission meeting agreeing to the conditions in the staff report and further agreed to comply with the additional concerns added II by the Planning Commission. The conditions of approval and the revisions done are summarized as follows: I1. Add trees to the center landscape islands with parking lot. The landscape plan ( Sheet #7 ) has been revised accordingly. II 2. Curb the parking lot edge where head in stalls are shown, and the landscape islands at the end of the service drive. I The grading and drainage plan ( Sheet #5) has been revised accordingly. I3. Entrance sign is not to be illuminated. This has been noted on the landscape plan ( Sheet #7) . I4. Lighting poles reduced to 15 ' - 18' in height. The height of lighting has been noted on the utilities and Ilighting plan ( Sheet #6 ) to be 18 feet in height. 5. Roof material to have matte finish and not glare. II Sheet #12 with the west and south elevations notes that the roof will be "matte finish gold annodized aluminum" . II II 1 Mr. Don Ashworth April 4 , 1989 , Page 2 6 . Exterior of building must not be illuminated. The applicants in their letter of March 1, 1989, addressed this issue. The staff concern is that the facility not be illuminated so as to stand out as a landmark in the evening. The applicant has stated that there will be low level illumi- nation along the exterior walls and roof, typical of other churches and similiar buildings. Staff feels more definition is needed on this item to assure compatibility with the neighborhood. ' 7. The nose of the proposed island cannot extend into the right- of-way of CSAH 17. The right-of-way line is 50 feet from the roadway centerline. The site plan and other sheets have been revised accordingly. 8. A plan must be presented showing the proposed road grade and cross section. The plan should identify the need for the large radius on the proposed entrance. It is the preference of the County to have the radius less than 50 feet. The site plan and other sheets have been revised accordingly. The radius is shown at 50 feet. 9 . Turn lanes will be required on the entrance. The entrance application should include the turn lane design details. , The site plan and other sheets have been revised accordingly. Design details will be submitted with the access application. 10. The applicant be required to submit construction plans and specifications for the installation of the watermain and sanitary sewer lines for approval by the City Engineer. ' The utility and lighting plan ( Sheet #6) has been revised to show an 8" sanitary sewer as requested by the City Engineer. Detailed construction plans will be submitted with construction permits . 11. Runoff calculations be submitted to confirm that the pre- , development runoff rate criteria of the Watershed District and the City are being complied with. Run off calculations and plans for compliance will be submitted in compliance with the Watershed District and city standards when the Watershed District permit is applied for. i I Mr. Don Ashworth April 4 , 1989 Page 3 ' 12. A drainage easement be dedicated to the City in accordance with the attached legal description and sketch to accommodate ' storm water runoff. They have agreed to the dedication of a drainage easement to accommodate the drainage from their property. They have agreed ' to negotiate additional easements for the drainage of surrounding properties. ' 13. Necessary permits from the County and Watershed District are obtained and complied with prior to construction. ' They have agreed to this condition. 14. A roadway cross-section shall be submitted for review along with the skimmer detail plan as discussed in the EAW for the ' parking lot area. A typical skimmer detail has been added to the grading and drainage plan ( Sheet #5) . The roadway cross-section will be submitted with construction plans in accordance with city stan- dards . ' 15. The applicant shall use Type III erosion control throughout the site. ' This has been added to the grading and drainage plan ( Sheet #5 ) . ' 16. Concrete barrier curbing be included on the entrance roadway and parking perimeters. The site plan and other sheets have been revised accordingly. 17. The applicant address the nutrient loading impacts to Riley Lake. ' A report on the nutrient loading impacts has been submitted. The conclusion is that the project should reduce nutrient loads ' over time. 18. The applicant address the concerns of the County Engineer as presented in the February 15, 1989, correspondence. ' Done - included above. ' 19. The applicant cooperate with the City in the future sitging of a frontage road paralleling TH 5. They have agreed to cooperate. ME 1 Mr. Don Ashworth April 4 , 1989 Page 4 20. There shall be no outside speaker system on the site. Not noted in their response. The Planning Commission is charged with finding that a conditional use application is in compliance with the General Issuance Standards before recommending approval of an application. The Planning Commission found this application to be in compliance. The Planning Commission noted after the approval that they would suggest City Council consider the following: 1 . Hiring an independent consultant to review Eckankar' s impact on property values . 2 . Additional services that the facility may need. 3 . Status that Eckankar is a church. 4 . Further evaluation of conditions #1 , 4 , 6 and 11 of the General Issuance Standards for Conditional Use Permits . IMPACT ON PROPERTY VALUES The City Attorney has contracted for an independent analysis of the impact on property values. ADDITIONAL SERVICES ' Staff has not identified additional services as a result of the approval of this request. The applicant will be extending water and sewer services for the project. They will be initiating appropriate drainage improvements. They have agreed to install all fire safety measures noted by Public Safety. Access is adequate to serve the facility. The only additional services some churches require is for directing traffic between services . Please refer to the memo from Public Safety. STATUS OF ECKANKAR AS A CHURCH , Pursuant to the Chanhassen City Code, the Eckankar facility complies with the definition of a church. The building is for religious workship, where people will join together to worship under the direction of a person authorized under the laws of the State of Minnesota to solemnize marriages . There have been questions as to whether this defintiion is consistent with State Statutes definition. We have found no legislation defining the term. ' ma I/ Mr. Don Ashworth April 4 , 1989 Page 5 The Planning Commission expressed concern whether this was a church or a business . Eckankar is an approved state and federal ' tax exempt organization. FURTHER EVALUATION OF CONDITIONS #1, 4 , 6 and 11 At the Planning Commission meeting there was some reservation expressed as to whether the application satisfied conditions #1, 4 , 6 and 11. The Planning Commission suggested the opponents ' further address the conditions at City Council. Staff has not had the opportunity to evalute what may be presented at the meeting on Monday from the opponents . However, based on discussion at ' the Planning Commission meeting, staff offers the following com- ments on these conditions relative to the application. 1. Will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, ' safety, comfort, convenience or general welfare of the neigh- borhood or the city. ' This standard could be interpreted in many ways, however, it needs to be applied to the proposed land use. In applying this standard we take into consideration a variety of uses , ' operations and safety issues. The application complies with zoning requirements and greatly exceeds the setback require- ments from adjacent properties . The applicants have agreed to comply with fire and safety recommendations for the faci- lity. Public Safety has contacted other jurisdictions where Eckankar has or has had facilities and not identified any concerns or problems in those communities . From a land use ' standpoint, the isolation of the facility from neighboring uses provides an excessive separation and there are no iden- tified nuisances that would be detrimential to the public comfort. The facility will not be detrimental to the con- venience of the neighborhood or city. The church use pre- sents no known endangerment to the general welfare nor has the investigation into Eckankar noted any problems in the ' communities where they have operated or held meetings . 4. Will not be hazardous or disturbing to existing or planned neighboring uses. The intent of this standard is to address materials or opera- tions which may be hazardous such as the handling of chemi- cals, use of equipment, etc. which would not be compatible with the neighboring uses. This standard was cited at the meeting due to the perception that the practices of the ' church would be hazardous or disturbing to neighboring uses . Based on the Public Safety Department investigation, Eckankar has not had this affect in other areas. I Mr. Don Ashworth April 4 , 1989 Page 6 6. Will not create excessive requirements for public facilities and services and will not be detrimental to the economic welfare of the community. As stated earlier and in the staff report to the Planning Commission this use will have less need for public facilities and services then if developed residentially pursuant to the zoning. The second part of this standar addresses impacts on the economic welfare of the community. Without doing a detailed cost/benefit analysis it is difficult to evaluate the economic impact of the proposed use. The following general statements , however, can be made. the property is presently vacant and does not draw people to the community. The applicants own the property and the proposed use is con- sistent with the zoning requirements. The applicant is a tax exempt organization. The applicants have paid all special assessments . The facility will likely draw people into the community who may spend dollars in the city. The property could be further developed in the future pursuant to the zoning code. If the property were fully developed today in accordance with present zoning, the property tax generated would be $750 , 000 - $800 , 000 per year with $140,000 - $160 , 000 going to the city. Typically, residential develop- ment does not generate enough tax revenue to pay the cost of providing public services and facilities . In the investiga- tion of Eckankar it has not been found that they have had a detrimental impact on the economic welfare of the com- munities. Several of the responses have been complimentary. 11. Will not depreciate surrounding property values. The City Attorney has been directed to have an independent assessment on the impact of the proposed facility on surrounding property values . , RECOMMENDATION ' Planning staff recommends approval of Conditional Use Permit #89-1 for Eckankar Church with several conditions. The appli- cants have responded to those conditions . Staff has re-evaluated the four ( 4 ) standards mentioned at the Planning Commission meeting and still finds the application to be consistent with the standards of the zoning code for conditional use permits . , Based on the applicants response to Planning Commission con- ditions for approval, staff recommends the City Council adopt the following motion: I I ' Mr. Don Ashworth April 4 , 1989 Page 7 "The City Council finds that Conditional Use Permit Case #89-1 for Eckankar Church is consistent with the zoning standards of ' the City of Chanhassen and approves the request subject to the plans stamped "Received March 22 , 1989" and the matters of record in the Official City Planning File #89-1 Conditional Use Permit ' ( Eckankar Church) with the following conditions : 1 . Detailed lighting of the exterior of the building be sub- mitted for review by the city. At staff' s discretion, the lighting may be presented to the Planning Commission for review to determine if the lighting is consistent with the character of the neighborhood. ' 2 . All detailed construction plans and specifications are to meet city standards . ' 3 . Watershed District permits required prior to construction. 4 . There shall be no outside speaker system on the site. ' 5 . The facility is for the express use as a church and limited to normal operations and activities associated with a church. ' In no case shall rallies, conferences, meetings or gatherings in excess of the seating capacity of the proposed facility be allowed. 6 . No tents, mobile homes , trailers or similar temporary struc- tures shall be allowed on the property. ' 7 . Parking shall only be allowed in the improved parking areas as designated on the site plan. ' 8. No overnight stays shall be permitted including camping or lodging with the exception of the caretaker. 9 . No use other than that specified in the conditional use per- mit shall be permitted, unless the applicant applies for and receives approval of a new conditional use permit pursuant to the City Code requirements in affect at that time. " ' ATTACHMENTS 1. Memo from Jim Chaffee dated April 5, 1989 . 2 . Letter from Peter Beck dated March 22, 1989, revised plans . 3 . Letter from Peter Beck dated March 22, 1989, analysis of Nutrient Loading Impacts . 4 . Memo to Don Ashworth dated March 20, 1989, re: tax revenue. 5 . Letter from Bob Hoffman dated March 20 , 1989 . 6 . Letter from Roger Knutson to Bud Andrus dated March 16, 1989 . ' 7 . Letter from Bob Hoffman/Peter Beck dated March 10 , 1989, re: Acquisition. 8 . Letter from Bob Hoffman/Peter Beck to Mayor Chmiel dated 1 March 13 , 1989 . I Mr. Don Ashworth April 4 , 1989 Page 8 Attachments ( continued) ' 9 . Letter from Roger Knutson dated March 6 , 1989. 10 . Planning Commission minutes dated March 1 , 1989 . 11. Staff report to Planning Commission ( including application/ referral comments) . 12 . Letter from Bob Hoffman dated March 1 , 1989 , response to staff report. 13 . Statements of consultants presented at Planning Commission meeting by Bob Hoffman. 14. Copy of code requirements including definition of church, conditional use permit section. 15 . Correspondence received: a . Petition presented to Planning Commission March 1, 1989. b. Information about Eckankar distributed at Planning Commission meeting March 1, 1989 . c . Anonymous note and copy of description of Eckankar d . Letter from Brian T. Ashley dated March 2, 1989. e . Letter from Janet Arnold dated February 10 , 1989. f . Letter from M. J. Gorra dated March 32 , 1989 . g . Letter from A. B. Liever dated March 2 , 1989 . h . Letter from Dan Mahady dated March 3 , 1989. i . Letters from Glenn & Bonnie Hageman dated March 7 and March 9 , 1989 . j . Letter from leneda Rahe dated March 12, 1989. 1 1 CITY OF C AN BASS : N 690 COULTER DRIVE • P.O. BOX 147 • CHANHASSEN, MINNESOTA 55317 (612) 937-1900 MEMORANDUM TO: Don Ashworth, City Manager ' FROM: Jim Chaffee, Public Safety Director DATE: April 5 , 1989 ' SUBJ: Eckankar I have been asked to research certain areas concerning the ' Eckankar group. In spring, 1985, the Chanhassen Public Safety Department conducted an investigation regarding the Eckankar group and their headquarters in Menlo Park, California. At that time it was determined that there were no public safety concerns . ' Currently we have contacted numerous individuals , groups and organizations in conducting further research about Eckankar . As of this writing, we have learned nothing of a substantive public ' safety nature. As I indicated earlier, we have talked to numerous individuals , ' some of them former Eckankar members , who had information to pass on to us about Eckankar. In addition, we contacted numerous police agencies around the country asking for information about Eckankar. These police agencies either had no knowledge of the ' group or knew about the group but had no negative contacts . We checked with the local office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and they indicated that they were not aware of any ' investigation concerning Eckankar. We also checked with the Minneapolis Police Cult Experts and they had no information regarding the group Eckankar. Some residents have questioned this department regarding whether this office and/or the Sheriff would be concerned over large traffic volumes potentially created by Eckankar. Specifically, ' it was noted that their annual conference of Eckankar generated nearly 10, 000 persons. This type of traffic volume/people would definitely be of concern to this office. However, Steve Hanson ' has informed me that Eckankar has placed into writing that the Chanhassen facility shall only be a place of worship, albeit serving the larger metropolitan area. No national conferences would be proposed to be held at the Eckankar site in Chanhassen and Eckankar would agree to such in writing and as a condition of their permit. It is staff' s position that the group known as Eckankar does not pose a public safety concern to the City of Chanhassen. 11 JAMES P LARKIN DAVID J.PEAT ROBERT L.HOFFMAN LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, T TD• MICHAEL T McKIM JACK F DALY CHARLES R.WEAVER D.KENNETH LINDGREN HERMAN L.TALLE WENDELL R.ANDERSON ATT O R N E Y S AT LAW VINCENT G.ELLA GERALD H.FRIEDELL ANDREW J.MITCHELL ALLAN E.MULLIGAN JOHN A.COTTER• ROBERT J.HENNESSEY BEATRICE A.ROTHWEILER JAMES C.ERICKSON 1500 NORTHWESTERN FINANCIAL CENTER 2000 PIPER JAFFRAY TOWER PAUL B.PLUNKETT EDWARD J.DRISCOLL ALAN L.KILDOW JAMES P MILEY 7900 XERXES AVENUE SOUTH 222 SOUTH NINTH STREET KATHLEEN M.PICOTTE NEWMAN GENE N.FULLER MICHAEL B.LE BARON DAVID C.SELLERGREN BLOOMINGTON,MINNESOTA 55431 MINNEAPOLIS,MINNESOTA 65402 FRANCIS E.GIBERSON RICHARD J.KEENAN TRACY R.EICHHORN-HICKS• JOHN D.FULLMER TELEPHONE 16121 835-3800 TELEPHONE 16121 338-6610 AMY DARR GRADY ROBERT E.BOYLE CATHERINE BARNETT WILSON. FRANK I.HARVEY FAX 16121 896-3333 FAX 16121 336-9760 JEFFREY C.ANDERSON CHARLES S.MODELL DANIEL L.BOWLES CHRISTOPHER J.DIETZEN TODD M.VLATKOVICH JOHN R.BEATTIE TIMOTHY J.McMANUS LINDA H.FISHER GREGORY E.KORSTAD NORTH SUBURBAN OFFICE THOMAS P.STOLT MAN LISA A.GRAY STEVEN G.LEVIN 8990 SPRINGBROOK DRIVE,SUITE 250 GARY A.RENNEKE FORREST D.NOWLIN THOMAS H.WEAVER MICHAEL C.JACKMAN COON RAPIDS,MINNESOTA 55433 SHANNON K.McCAMBRIDGE JOHN E.DIEHL MICHAEL S.COHEN JON S.SWIERZEWSKI DENISE M.NORTON TELEPHONE 16121 786-7117 THOMAS J.FLYNN GARY A.VAN CLEVE I JAMES P QUINN N MICHAEL B.BRAMAN TODD I.FREEMAN FAX 16121 786-6711 JOSEPH W.DICKER STEPHEN B.SOLOMON JACQUELINE F.DIETZ PETER K.BECK GAYLEN L.KNACK JEROME H.KAHNKE RODNEY D.IVES SHERRILL OMAN KURETICH Reply to Bloomington JULIE A.WRASE I GERALD L.SECK CHRISTOPHER J.HARRISTHAL JOHN B.LUNDQUIST SHARON L.BRENNA DAYLE NOLAN" MARIKAY CANAGA LITZAU THOMAS B.HUMPHREY,JR. TIMOTHY J.KEANE JON R.NORBERG WILLIAM C.GRIFFITH THEODORE A.MONDALE JOHN 22 , 1989 IL W.VO I JOHN W.STEFFENHAGEN F Mr. Steve Hansen, Planner OJOSEPH GITIS City of Chanhassen RICHARD A.NORDBYE 690 Coulter Drive *ALSO ADMITTED IN I WISCONSIN Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 Re: Eckankar Church I Final Plans Dear Steve: i Delivered with this letter are 10 copies of final plans for the Eckankar Church. These plans incorporate all of the conditions II recommended in the staff report on the Eckankar Church, plus the conditions suggested by the City Engineer which were not incorporated in the original staff report. We submit these plans at this time so the City Council can have a set of final plans before its review on I April 10, 1989 . This letter will also advise the City that Eckankar will cooperate in II the future siting of a proposed frontage road paralleling TH-5 . Please let us know if there is anything further which would assist the City Council in its review and deliberation on the Conditional Use II Permit for the Eckankar Church. Sincerely, ,/ i Peter K. Beck, for /7 I LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, Ltd. kw:DZ9s I Enclosures II II i I JAMES P LARKIN T-� 1T1 T�T T T LTD. DAVID J.PEAT ROBERT L.HOFFMAN LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY LINDGREN, 1 L. MICHAEL T McKIM JACK F DALY CHARLES R.WEAVER D.KENNETH LINOG REN HERMAN L.TALLE WENDELL R.ANDERSON ATTORNEYS AT LAW VINCENT G.ELLA GERALD H.FRIEDELL ANDREW J.MITCHELL ALLAN E.MULLIGAN JOHN A.COTTER ROBERT A HENNESSEY BEATRICE A.ROTHWEILER JAMES C.ERICKSON 1500 NORTHWESTERN FINANCIAL CENTER 2000 PIPER JAFFRAY TOWER PAUL B.PLUNKETT EDWARD J.DRISCOLL ALAN L.KILDOW I JAMES P MILEY 7900 XERXES AVENUE SOUTH 222 SOUTH NINTH STREET KATHLEEN M.PICOTTE NEW MAN GENE N.FULLER MICHAEL B.LE BARON DAVID C.SELLERGREN BLOOMINGTON,MINNESOTA 55431 MINNEAPOLIS,MINNESOTA 55402 FRANCIS E.GIBER5ON RICHARD J.KEENAN TRACY R.EICHHORN-HICKS• JOHN D.FULLMER TELEPHONE 16121 835-3800 TELEPHONE 16121 338-6610 AMY DARR GRADY ROBERT E.BOYLE CATHERINE BARNETT WILSON. FRANK I.HARVEY FAX 1612)896-3333 FAX 16121 336-9760 JEFFREY C.ANDERSON CHARLES 5.MODELL DANIEL L.BOWLES CHRISTOPHER J.DIETZEN TODD M.VLATKOVICH JOHN R.BEATTIE TIMOTHY J.McMANUS LINDA H.FISHER NORTH SUBURBAN OFFICE GREGORY E.KORSTAD THOMAS P STO LT MAN LISA A.GRAY STEVEN G.LEVIN 8990 SPRINGBROOK DRIVE,SUITE 250 GARY A.RENNEKE FORREST D.NOWLIN THOMAS H.WEAVER MICHAEL C.JACKMAN COON RAPIDS,MINNESOTA 55433 SHANNON K.MCCAMBRIDGE I JOHN E.DIEHL MICHAEL S.COHEN JON S.SWIERZEWSKI DENISE M.NORTON THOMAS J.FLYNN TELEPHONE 16121 786-7117 GARY A.VAN CLEVE JAMES P QUINN MICHAEL B.BRAMAN TODD I.FREEMAN FAX 16121 786-6711 JOSEPH W.DICKER STEPHEN B.SOLOMON JACQUELINE F.DIETZ PETER K.BECK GAYLEN L.KNACK SHERRI H.KAHNKE Reply to Bloomington RODNEY A.DIVES i GERALD LL OMAN KURETICH JULIE A.WRASE GERAL L.SECK JOHN B.LUNDOUIST CHRISTOPHER J.HARRISTHAL SHARON L.BRENNA DAY LE NOLAN• MARIKAY CANAGA LITZAU THOMAS B.HUM PH REY,JR. TIMOTHY J.KEANE JON R.NORBERG WILLIAM C.GRIFFITH THEODORE A.MONDALE I/ March 22, 1989 DANIEL VSTEFFENHAGEN JOHN W.. OSS EFF OF COUNSEL Mr. Steve Hansen, Planner JOSEPH GITIS RICHARD A.NORDBYE II City of Chanhassen .ALSO ADMITTED IN 690 Coulter Drive WISCONSIN Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 II Re: Eckankar Church Analysis of Nutrient Loading Impacts to Riley Lake II Dear Steve: Enclosed please find an analysis of the nutrient loading impacts to Riley Lake which has been prepared by Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc . II Please call if you have any questions or if there is any further information which we can provide. IISincerely, I P-Let-11-. i.e. 1161.-4.--k, Peter K. Beck, for LARKIN, HOS A.S .1 D211--Y & ?.-INDaREN, T-td. I kw Enclosure I I I I MAR 2 21989 PKB:EAOs IW 1 Y Uh CHANHASS +! mil I Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. 111 Third Avenue South, Suite 350 Phone:(612)332-0421 1 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Fax: (612) 332-6180 USA I N EMDRANDUM 10: Peter Beck I COPIES 10: Ken Horns Fri: In Iutenegger , DATE: March 17, 1989 SUBJECT: Nutrient Loading Impact from Eckankar Church Project 1 The amount of pollutants present in the storm water runoff will be dependent on a number of different variables. These variables include the frequency and intensity of precipitation, site maintenance activities, traffic volumes and other human activities that provide sources for pollutants. Given the number of variables affecting pollutant concentrations, it is difficult to accurately estimate the amount of additional pollutants the proposed project will introduce in the watershed. In the Twin Cities metropolitan area, phosphorus is generally the limiting nutrient pollutant. A preliminary estimate of the increase in phosphorus loading to receiving waters resulting from the project is presented in the following Tables 1-3. Drainage impacts have been previously described in the Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) , Eckankar Church, January 1989, pp 15-18. The nutrient generation characteristics of various land uses in the Twin ' Cities metropolitan area have been described by various investigators (Hickok, 1972, 1979; Metropolitan Council 1979) . A number of national studies have also developed phosphorous coefficients for different land use types and uses (EPA, 1974; 1980) . The land use characteristics of the 174-acre site before and after the 11 proposed project are summarized in Table 1. The project site presently contains no structures or developments. Approximately 88.7 acres or 51 percent of the site is being leased in agricultural use (76.6 acres in now crops, 12.1 acres in hay) and the remainder has been left undisturbed, including 13.3 acres in woodland, 12.1 acres in wetland and the remainder in open brush and grassland. Past use of the property was agricultural and two farmsteads once existed on the site. There are no buildings currently on the site. ' Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. The proposed project will result in 5.7 acres of impervious surface (church building, impervious walkways, parking area and access drive) and 3.2 acres of landscaped area. This development occurs mainly on the site of an abandoned farmstead and adjacent grassland. The cropland portion of the site (88.7 acres) will be planted in prairie grasses. Seed application will be performed by drilling. ' TABLE 1 CHANGE IN LAND USE DUE TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT ' Area (in acres) Land Use Before Project After Project Forest/Wooded 13.3 (7.6%) 13.3 (7.6%) ' Agricultural 88.7 (51.0%) 0 (0%) Open/Undeveloped 72.0 (41.4%) 151.8 (87.2%) (including wetlands) Developed 0 8.9 (5.1%) ' 174.0 174.0 Churches and their grounds produce a phosphorous load that has not been specifically quantified. However, shopping centers (which have similar ' impervious characteristics but dissimilar human use patterns) were found to generate 0.39 kg/ha-yr of phosphorous (EPA 440/5-79-001, 1979) . This value is used as a conservative approximation. In its desktop study of non-point source water pollution, the Metropolitan Council estimated yearly ' phosphorous losses from all types of agricultural land in the Riley Creek watershed as 2.2 to 3.1 kg/ha-yr. Phosphorous export coefficients for a number of forest and agricultural land uses and mixed agricultural ' watersheds are also described in "Modeling Phosphorous Loading and Lake Response Under Uncertainty: A Manual and Compilation of Export Coefficients" (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Publication EPA 440/5- ' 80-011, 1980) . Assignment of phosphorous export coefficients assumes that the existing site land type fits the following categories: 1. Forest = nixed deciduous forest with loam soil (Range: 0.07-0.20 kg/ha-yr) 2. Open/undeveloped = open space or pasture (Range: 0.06-0.34 kg/ha-yr) ' 3. Agricultural = row crops, including corn or soybeans (Range: 0.26 - 18.6 kg/ha-yr) I 1 2 MR Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. I Coefficients selected for this current study are shown in Table 2. No explicit credit was taken for the assimilative capacity of wetlands to remove phosphorous. To be conservative, the beneficial effect of the detention basin included in the project plan was also not considered in this analysis. TABLE 2 PHOSPHOROUS EXPORT BY LAND USE Export Coefficient Lard Use an kg/ha yr) References Forest/Wooded 0.2 EPA 440/5-80-011 Agricultural 2.2 M.0 uncil/EPA 440/5-80-011 Oper�/Undeveloped 0.3 M.Cauricil/EPA 440/5-79-001 Developed 0.4 EPA 440/5-79-001 The estimated phosphorous load impacts are shown in Table 3. Based upon ' these estimates, the proposed project should not increase nutrient loads generated by site lard use. Instead, the project should result in reduced site nutrient loads over time. I TABLE 3 CHANGE IN PHOSPHOROUS LOADS DUE TO PROPOSED PROTECT Phosphorous Load (kg/yr) Land Use Before Project After Project Forest/Wooded 1.1 1.1 Agricultural 78.9 0 Open/Undeveloped 8.7 18.4 Developed 0 1.4 88.7 20.9 1 References Hickok (E.A.) and Associates. Stormwater Impact Investigation. Prepared for Metropolitan CO ncil. November, 1972. I 3 i ma I IBarton-Aschman Associates, Inc. IHickok (EA) "Wetlands and Organic Soils for the Control of Urban Stormwater;" In Lake Restoration, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Publication EPA 440/5-79-001, 1979. I Metropolitan Council, Water Pollution aunt Non-point Sources, An Assessment and Recommendations, Metropolitan Council Publication No. 62-79-008, IApril 1979. Reckhow, Kenneth H. et. al., Modeling Phosphorous Loading and Lake Response I Under Uncertainty. A Manual and Compilation of Export Coefficients, U.S. Envirormental Protection Agency Publication EPA 440/5-80-011. I I I I I I I I I I I I 4 0 CITY OF• 1 � 1 4 l ' 690 COULTER DRIVE • PO. BOX 147 • CHANHASSEN, MINNESOTA 55317 (612) 937-1900 MEMORANDUM ' TO: Don Ashworth, City Manager FROM: Stephen Hanson, Planning Director .:i I DATE: March 20 , 1989 SUBJ: Eckankar , Pat Albrecht of Concerned Citizens of Chanhassen contacted me ' this morning regarding Eckankar. She said she and her group met with yourself and Roger Knutson last week and that I was to pre- pare an estimate of the tax revenues which might be generated from the property if it were developed residentially. I have prepared two quick estimates based on the following assumptions : 1 . That all units are owner occupied units with homestead credit. 2 . The following average tax bill by unit type: Single family detached $1800/year Twin homes $1400/year R-4 & Townhouses $1200/year R-12 & Condominiums $ 800/year 3 . The following percentage breakout for taxing entities : County 28. 4% City 20. 3% Schools 47 . 8% Other 3 . 5% 100 . 0% 4 . Revenues are based on 1989 dollars and on the assumption the ' property is fully built out. 1 I I Mr. Don Ashworth March 20 , 1989 Page 2 II ESTIMATE NO. 1 IChaparral on Lake Ann This is based on a 1979 PUD for the property, which had con- I ditional approval by the city. If this plan were fully developed, the following tax revenues would be generated. Est/Unit IPlanned Use Units Taxes Total Single family detached 170 1800 $306 , 000 I Twin homes 78 1400 109, 200 Townhomes 152 1200 182 , 400 Condominiums 200 800 160, 000 ITotal 600 $757 , 600 ITax Entities % Share $ Amount County 28 . 4 $215, 200 I City 20 . 3 153 , 800 School 47. 8 362,100 Other 3 . 5 26 , 500 ITotal 100. 0 $757, 600 1 ESTIMATE NO. 2 Present Zoning IThis estimate assumes development pursuant to the present zoning of the property. In order to establish a reasonable developable area the net acreages were arrived at by deducting 20% for right- ' of-way and an estimate for the preservation, slopes and ponding needs for the property. In the latter case of ponding, we know 23 acres are required for a pond in the southeast corner of the R-12 I tract. This was also shown on the Chaparral at Lake Ann plans . The following table shows projected revenues. I Gross Net Min. Est. Est/Unit Total Zone Acres Acres Lot Size Units Taxes Tax RSF 64 43 . 2 15 , 000 125 1800 $225 , 000 I R-4 53 35. 4 5 , 500 280 1200 336, 000 R-12 57 22 . 6 3 , 600 273 800 218, 400 ITotal 174 101. 2 678 $779 , 400 Mr. Don Ashworth March 20 , 1989 Page 3 Tax Entities % Share $ Amount County 28 . 4 $221, 300 City 20 . 3 153 , 200 School 47 . 8 372 , 600 Other 3 . 5 27, 300 Total 100. 0 $779, 400 It should be noted with this revenue comes the need for providing services to the development. I have not attempted to prepare a cost/benefit assessment but only generated an estimate of possible revenue if fully developed today. I 1 I AM I JAMES P.LARKIN LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, LTD. I ROBERT L.HOFFMAN DAVID J.PEAT AR F JACK F DALY MICHAEL T. O.KENNETH LINDGREN CHARLES R.WEAVER WENDELL R.ANDERSON WEAV ER L.ATTORN EYS AT LAW HERMAN D WEA GERALD H.FRIEDELL VINCENT G.ELLA ALLAN E.MULLIGAN ANDREW J.MITCHELL JOHN A.COTTER. ROBERT J.HENNESSEY BEATRICE A.ROTHWEILER JAMES C.ERICKSON 1500 NORTHWESTERN FINANCIAL CENTER 2000 PIPER JAFFRAY TOWER PAUL B.PLUNKETT I EDWARD J.DRISCOLL ALAN L.KILOOW JAMES P MILEY 7900 XERXES AVENUE SOUTH 222 SOUTH NINTH STREET KATHLEEN M.PICOTTE NEWMAN GENE N.FULLER MICHAEL B.LEBANON FRANCIS E.GIBERSON DAVID C.SELLERGREN BLOOMINGTON,MINNESOTA 55431 MINNEAPOLIS,MINNESOTA 55402 RICHARD J.KEENAN TRACY R.EICHHORN-HICKS'. JOHN D.FULLMER TELEPHONE 16121 835-3800 TELEPHONE 16121 338-6610 AMY DARR GRADY ROBERT E.BOYLE CATHERINE BARNETT WILSON. FRANK I.HARVEY FAX 16121 896-3333 FAX 16121 336-9760 JEFFREY C.ANDERSON I CHARLES S.MODELL DANIEL L.BOWLES CHRISTOPHER J.DIETZEN TODD M.VLATKOVICH JOHN R.BEATTIE TIMOTHY J.McMANUS LINDA H.FISHER THOMAS P STOLTMAN NORTH SUBURBAN OFFICE GREGORY E.KORSTAD LISA A.GRAY STEVEN G.LEVIN 8990 SPRINGBROOK DRIVE,SUITE 250 GARY A.RENNEKE FORREST D.NOWLIN THOMAS H.WEAVER MICHAEL C.JACKMAN COON RAPIDS,MINNESOTA 55433 SHANNON K.MCCAMBRIDGE JOHN E.DIEHL MICHAEL S.COHEN JON S.SWIERZEWSKI TELEPHONE 16121 786-7117 DENISE M.NORTON THOMAS J.FLYNN GARY A.VAN CLEVE JAMES P QUINN FAX (6121 786-6711 MICHAEL B.BRAMAN TODD I.FREEMAN JOSEPH W.DICKER STEPHEN B.SOLOMON JACQUELINE F.DIETZ PETER K.BECK GAYLEN L.KNACK JEROME H.KAHNKE Reply to Bloomington RODNEY D.IVES I SHERRILL OMAN KURETICH GERALD L.SEC. CHRISTOPHER J.HARRISTHAL JOHN B.LUNDQUIST SHARON L.BRENNA DAY LE NOLAN. MARIKAY CANAGA LITZAU THOMAS B.HUM PH REY,JR. JULIE A.WRASE TIMOTHY J.KEANE JON R.NORBERG WILLIAM C.GRIFFITH THEODORE A.MONDALE I March 20 ANIEL W.TEFFE VOSS NHAGEN F COUNSEL , 1989 DJ ANIEL Mr. Steve Hansen, Planner OJOSEPH GITIS I City of Chanhassen RICHARD A.NOR DBVE 690 Coulter Drive WALSOADMITTED IN WISCONSIN Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 IRe: Eckankar Church - Lower Level Floor Plan Dear Steve: IWe are considering a modest revision to the walkout level of the Church. Floor plans are not required to be submitted for the I Conditional Use Permit. However, we did submit upper and lower level floor plans for illustrative purposes . Therefore, we want to keep you current as to any internal I modifications . The architect has suggested a revision to the walkout level floor plan which will increase efficiency and reduce construction and operating costs . This change involves reducing some ceiling heights in the areas on the walkout level where higher ceilings are not required. Enclosed is an alternative floor plan for the walkout level incorporating this modification. Eckankar has not determined at this time whether to adopt this recommendation. This I type of change in the interior of the building, according to Chanhassen ordinances, will not affect the conditional use permit for the Church. 1 The exterior grade along the northern and eastern sides of the Church would rise approximately four feet next to the building if this modification were adopted. This is the only change which would affect in any way the exterior of the building. Sincerely, CITY OF CHANHASSEN I 7"), (',-,26.4.---' R£CER, LO I Robert L. Hoffman, for ty;,,; - �, A"3 7 LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, Ltd. " ` ` kw:DW7 s CHANHASSEN PLANNING DEPT. I tikes..■, 1 LAW OFFICES GRANNIS, GRANNIS, FARRELL& KNUTSON DAVID L. GRANNIS- 1874-1961 PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION TELECOPIER. DAVID L. GRANNIS.JR.- 1910-1980 PosT OFFICE Box 57 (612)455-2359 VANCE B. GRANNIS 403 NOR WEST BANK BUILDING ELLIOTT B, KNETSCH MICHAEL J MAYER VANCE B GRANNIS,JR.• 161 NORTH CONCORD EXCHANGE TIMOTHY J. BERG PATRICK A. FARRELL DAVID L. GRANNIS,III SOUTH ST PAUL,MINNESOTA 55075 1 ROGER N. KNUTSON TELEPHONE(612) 455-1661 DAVID L. HARMEYER •ALSO ADMWEED TO March 16, 1989 1 PRACTICE IN WISCONSIN Mr. Bud Andrus Andrus Agency, Inc. Minnetonka Business and Professional Center 17809 Hutchins Drive Minnetonka, Minnesota 55345 RE: Tract B , Registered Land Survey No. 88 Carver County, Minnesota ' Dear Mr. Andrus: Don Ashworth has forwarded your letter of March 8, 1989, to me for reply. The City would like you to do the appraisal at a cost not to exceed $2, 800. Your appraisal is needed no later than April 5, 1989. Enclosed for your information is an appraisal prepared for the landowner. Very trul ours, GRANN - , GRANNIS, FARRELL KNUTSON, P.A. BY- :.iler N. Knutson RNK: srn Enclosure cc: Don Ashworth 1 1 1 MAR 2 i 1989 1 CITY OF CHANHASSEN I - 77',/,- _: - - `C ii G "/ JAMES P LARKIN D THyT T TAT t DAVID J.PEAT I ROBERT L.HOFFMAN LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY �C LINDGREN, LTD. MICHAEL T McKIM JACK F DALY D.KENNETH LINDGREN CHARLES R.WEAVER '.(O , WENDELL R.ANDERSON ATTORNEYS AT LAW HERMAN L.TALLE title. GERALD H.FRIED ELL VINCENT G.ELLA ALLAN E.MULLIGAN ANDREW J.MITCHELL ROBERT J.HEN NESS EY JOHN A.COTTER BEATRICE A.ROTHWEILER JAMES C.ERICKSON 1500 NORTHWESTERN FINANCIAL CENTER 2000 PIPER JAFFRAY TOWER PAUL B.PLUNKETT i EDWARD J.DRISCOLL ALAN L.KILDOW JAMES P MILEY 7900 XERXES AVENUE SOUTH 222 SOUTH NINTH STREET KATHLEEN M.PICOTTE NEWMAN GENE N.FULLER MICHAEL A.LE BARON FRANCIS E.GIBERSON DAVID C.SELLE RG REN BLOOMINGTON,MINNESOTA 55431 MINNEAPOLIS,MINNESOTA 55402 RICHARD J.KEENAN TRACY R.EICHHORN'HICKS JOHN D.FULLMER TELEPHONE 16121 835-3800 TELEPHONE 16121 338-6610 AMY DARR GRADY ROBERT E.BOYLE CATHERINE BARNETT WILSONK FRANK I.HARVEY FAX 16121 896-3333 FAX 16121 336-9760 JEFFREY C.ANDERSON CHARLES S.MODELL CHRISTOPHER J.DIETZEN JOHN R.BEATTIE DANIEL L.BOWLES TODD M.VLATKOVICH TIMOTHY J.MCMANUS LINDA H.FISHER NORTH SUBURBAN OFFICE GREGORY E.KORSTAD THOMAS STOLTMAN STEVEN G..LEVIN LISA A.GRAY 8990 SPRINGBROOK DRIVE,SUITE 250 GARY A.RENNEKE M ICHAET D.NOWLIN THOMAS H.WEAVER JOHN E.DIEHL MAN COON RAPIDS,MINNESOTA 55433 SHANNON K.MCCAMBRIDGE I JOHN E.DIEHL JON S.S MICHAEL S.COHEN J.FLYNN WSKI DENISE M.NORTON THOMAS J.FLYN TELEPHONE 16121 786-7117 GARY A.VAN CLEVE MICHAEL B.BRAMAN JAMES P QUINN TODD I.FREEMAN FAX 16121 786-6711 JOSEPH W.DICKER STEPHEN B.SOLOMON JACQUELINE F.DIETZ PETER K.BECK GAYLEN L.KNACK JEROME H.KAHNKE RODNEY D.IVES SHERRILL OMAN KURETICH Reply to Bloomington JULIE A.WRASE I GERALD L.SECK JOHN B.LUNDQUIST CHRISTOPHER J.HARRISTHAL SHARON L.BRENNA DAY LE NOLAN w MARIKAY CANAGA LITZAU THOMAS B.HUMPH REV,JR. TIMOTHY J.KEANE JON R.NORBERG WILLIAM C.GRIFFITH THEODORE A.MONDALE ' JOHN J.STEFFENHAGEN DANIEL W.VOSS March 10, 1989 OF COUNSEL JOSEPH GITIS RICHARD A.NORDBYE II SO ADMITTED IN WI Mr. Don Ashworth WISCONSIN City Manager City of Chanhassen II 690 Coulter Drive Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 II Re: Eckankar Church Proposed City Land Acquisition IDear Mr. Ashworth: This letter is in response to your letter of February 23, 1989, regarding the City of Chanhassen's proposed land acquisition from IEckankar. We have advised you in the past that Eckankar would be open to discuss I the sale of up to 25 acres to the City for a community center or a middle school/community center at a fair market value price. When the application for a Conditional Use Permit for the Eckankar Church was filed, you suggested that discussions with respect to City acquisition I of Eckankar land be deferred until after the Conditional Use Permit had been acted on so that no one would feel that the two issues had been linked in any way. We think this the best course of action and I suggest that any further discussions with respect to City acquisition of a portion of the Eckankar property for a community center or a middle school/community center be deferred until the Conditional Use IIPermit is approved. With respect to the second item in your letter of March 1, 1989, please advise the City Council that the entire Eckankar property is II not for sale. Eckankar has invested substantial amounts of time and money preparing to construct a church on its property and intends to proceed to do so. I LIAR 1 3 1989 ICt-[Y OF CHANHA55tN IN I LABIKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, LTD. II Mr. Don Ashworth March 10, 1989 II Page 2 Please feel free to call or write if we can answer any other questions or be of further assistance. 1 Very truly yours, )ZiLice_ ., (i - Y, I .v_ 7Ro a L. Hoffman, and Peter K. Beck, for I LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, Ltd. kw I I I I I I I I I I I PKB:DYOs L / i & ,. i r JAMES P LARKIN LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY C7C I.INDGI3EN, LTD. _ M MICHAEL T.MCKIM ROBERT L.HOFFMAN i SACK F DALY CHARLES R.WEAVER O.KENNETH LINDGREN W EN DELL R.ANDERSON MERMAN L.TALLE ATTORNEYS AT LAW VINCENT G.ELLA GERALD H.FRIEDELL ANDREW J.MITCHELL ALLAN E MULLIGAN JOHN A.COTTER ROBERT J.HENNESSEY BEATRICE A.ROTHWEILER JAMES C.ERICKSON 1500 NORTHWESTERN FINANCIAL CENTER 2000 PIPER JAFFRAY TOWER PAUL B.PLUNKETT EDWARD J.DRISCO:.L ALAN L.KILDOW JAMES P MILEY 7900 XERXES AVENUE SOUTH 222 SOUTH NINTH STREET KATHLEEN M.PICOTTE NEWMAN i GENE N.FULLER MICHAEL A.LE BARON DAVID C.SELLC RBREN BLOOMINGTON,MINNESOTA 55431 MINNEAPOLIS,MINNESOTA 55402 FRANCIS E.GIBERSON RICHARD J.KEENAN TRACY R.EICHHORN-HICKS w JOHN D.FU LLM ER TELEPHONE(6121 835-3800 TELEPHONE 16121 338-6610 AMY DARR GRADY ROBERT E.BOYLE CATHERINE BARNETT WILSON• FRANK I.HARVEY FAX 16121 896-3333 FAX 16121 336-9760 JEFFREY C.ANDERSON CHARLES S.MODELL DANIEL L.BOWLES CHRISTOPHER J.DIETZEN TODD M.VLATKOVICH I JOHN R.BEATTIE TIMOTHY J.MCMAN US LINDA M.FISHER NORTH SUBURBAN OFFICE GREGORY E.KORSTAD THOMAS P STO LT MAN LISA A.GRAY STEVEN G.LEVIN 8990 SPRINGBROOK DRIVE,SUITE 250 GARY A.RENNEKE FORREST D.NOWLIN THOMAS H.WEAVER MICHAEL C.JACKMAN SHANNON K.MCCAM BRIDGE JOHN E.DIEHL COON RAPIDS,MINNESOTA 55433 MICHAEL S.COHEN JON S.SWIERZEWSKI THOMAS J.FLYNN DENISE M.NORTON TELEPHONE(6121 786-7117 GRY A.VA CLEVE JAMES P QUINN MAC HAEL BNB RAMAN TODD I.FREEMAN FAX 16121 786-6711 JOSEPH W.DICKER STEPHEN B.SOLOMON PETER K.BECK GAYLEN L.JACQUELINE IET2 KNACK JEROME H.KAHNKE SHERRILL OMAN KURETICH Reply to Bloomington RODNEY D.IVES JULIE A.WRASE GERALD L SECK CHRISTOPHER J.HARRISTHAL I JOHN B.LUNDQUIST SHARON L.BRENNA DAYLE NOLAN w B.HUMP THOMAS B.HUM PH REV,JR. MARIKAY CANAGA LITZAU TIMOTHY J.KEANE JON R.NORBERG WILLIAM C.GRIFFITH THEODORE A.MONDALE JOHN J.STEFFENHAGEN DANIEL W.VOSS March 13, 1989 OF COUNSEL JOSEPH GITIS The Honorable Don Chmiel, Mayor RICHARD A.NORDBYE 7100 Tecumseh Lane WI SCONSIN SONSMITTED IN WI Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 Re: Eckankar Church Dear Mayor Chmiel: This letter provides additional information regarding Eckankar and the Eckankar Church, and extends an invitation to visit the Eckankar International Headquarters in New Hope, Minnesota, before the Council meeting on April 10, 1989 . Several City Council Members were present at the March 1, 1989, I Planning Commission hearing on the Eckankar Church. During that hearing some speakers raised the question of whether or not the Eckankar Church will be a good neighbor in Chanhassen. This question I must be directed at Eckankar's use of its land as a church, under the ordinances of Chanhassen. Eckankar has an excellent reputation as a good neighbor in the communities where its administrative headquarters and centers have been and are located. Eckankar's International Headquarters were located in Menlo Park, California for over 10 years. During this time I Eckankar was a member of the local Chamber of Commerce and was an exemplary member of the community. Enclosed are letters from the following organizations in Menlo Park regarding Eckankar: The Menlo Park Chamber of Commerce The David D. Bohannon Organization United States Postal Service Enclosed also are several additional letters from the following organizations with which Eckankar has done business over the years: I MAR 15 1989 CITY OF CHANhASSEA1 El Jj- LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY SC LINDGREN, LTD. The Honorable Don Chmiel, Mayor March 13, 1989 Page 2 , The Hartford Connecticut Convention and Visitors Bureau Radisson Hotels Saint Louis Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Summit Camps Blake Moffit & Towne These letters are examples of many letters which Eckankar has received over the years as to Eckankar being a "good neighbor." In 1985, the Chanhassen City Manager directed the City Public Safety ' Department to carry out an investigation of Eckankar's land use activities in Menlo Park, California. The conclusion of this report, a copy of which is enclosed, was that no land use problems have existed as a part of Eckankar's development in California. The report went on to state: Governmental agencies and private firms in the vicinity of Eckankar's existing facility highly recommend Eckankar as a supportive member of the community. I Eckankar located its International Headquarters in New Hope, Minnesota in 1986 . During the three years that Eckankar has been located in New Hope it has been a "good neighbor. " This is confirmed in the comments of the New Hope City Manager quoted in the enclosed article from the February 27 , 1989, Chanhassen Sailor. The City Manager stated that the City has received no complaints from adjacent property owners about Eckankar, and confirmed that Eckankar's presence in the community has been low key. Eckankar has had a religious center located in either St. Paul or I Minneapolis since 1973. This center was originally located in St. Paul, at 1879 University Avenue. The center moved to Minneapolis in 1975, and was located at 8807 S.E. Fourth Street from 1975 to 1986 . This center is now located at 2526 S.E. 25th Street. Eckankar invites the City, through its staff or council members, to visit Eckankar's neighborhood in Minneapolis and talk to neighbors or Minneapolis City officials to confirm that Eckankar is a good neighbor. Eckankar also invites the City to make further investigation at Menlo Park, California and New Hope, Minnesota. ' Eckankar has also been a "good neighbor" in Chanhassen. When Eckankar acquired its property in 1985, two abandoned farmsteads were located on the property. Eckankar donated these buildings to the City's Fire Department for training exercises and then cleared the debris to eliminate all potential hazards to the safety of Chanhassen residents. Eckankar has been assessed substantial amounts for water and sewer projects . These assessments were promptly paid, in full, without objection or complaint. I LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, LTD. IThe Honorable Don Chmiel, Mayor March 13, 1989 Ipage 3 During the Planning Commission hearing several speakers made II uninformed and derogatory remarks about Eckankar's religious beliefs . Such comments were made in the context of "Nazi," "Klu Klux Klan, " "Communists," "cults," "fear for children" and "different beliefs from Judeo-Christian. " We hope that in America today the religious beliefs lof Eckankar's members are not on trial in a land use matter. The comments made by those speakers at the Planning Commission hearing I are totally without basis in fact and are not supported by any evidence. The City's decision is to be based on facts presented at public hearings, not on rumors or unsupported claims. We enclose an I article on Eckankar from a college text on world religions published by Prentice-Hall. The authors are research professors who have studied religions since at least 1973, when they published the first edition of their textbook on religions. They conclude: IIAlthough Eckankar was founded in 1965 and has experienced significant growth during two decades, it is one of the less I widely known new religious movements. Eckankar has maintained a rather low profile, althouth it has done some advertising (for example, advertisements of some of Twitchell's books in Time magazine and occasionally on television) . Eckists are not readily identifiable by dress or other means and do not propagate their faith aggressively. They assume, rather, that when individuals are ready for what Eckankar has to offer, the seekers will somehow II present themselves and the connection will be made. They respect the religious freedom of others. The experience of the writers is that Eckists tend to be thoughtful, gentle, concerned persons who 1 are "ordinary" in most respects; they hardly fit the stereotype of a "cult member. " I We extend a formal invitation to each Council Member and Planning Commissioner to visit the Eckankar headquarters in New Hope. Please call one of the undersigned to arrange a convenient time. IIWe are also always available to answer your questions. Sincerely, 1 41444 / 94#7t4-4 II Robert . Hof / an, and i3> I Peter K. Beck, for LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, Ltd. I Enclosures Don Ashworth, City Manager Ikw:DY2s im r_ ,� 1 • • MENLO PARK F COMMERCE February 23 , 1982 1 To: Eckankar's Future Neighbors 1 Eckankar, Inc. has had their operation in Menlo Park, and have been members of our Chamber of Commerce since 1975. As part of my job I attend most of the Planning Commission and City Council meetings, as well as thoroughly reading our local news- 1 papers. During this time, I've never heard anything of a deroga- tory nature about the company. We're sure you will find them to be good neighbors. Cordially, 1 1 Robert C. Carrel Executive Vice President RCC/ew 1 1 1 1 1100 Merrill St.,Menlo Park, California 94025,Telephone (415)325-2818 1 ' DAVID D. BOHANNON ORGANIZATION 077277Yt1)?1l1T (Aet)'1O/)e1••GO HILLS DALE MALL•SAN MATEO,CALI FO RN IA 94403-3497 TELEPHONE 415 345-8222 May 1 , 1985 1 To Whom It May Concern: Eckankar has owned and maintained its own facilities for several years in the Bohannon Industrial Park. They have been an outstanding resident in the park and a "good neighbor" in the industrial community. The exterior appearance and accompanying landscaping has always been maintained in an outstanding fashion. They have always adhered to the Covenants , Conditions and Restrictions ' established for the park . We wish them the best in their new location. Respectfully, ' DAV D. BOHANNON ORGANIZATION Robert L. Webster Vice President-General Counsel 1 - MN k s Pante 1-411". 1 2 u. ux. gl * �o■ * United States 11 Postal Service MENLO PARK, CA 94025 II FEBRUARY 23, 1982 II TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: I I ECKANKAR AND THE U.S. POSTAL SERVICE HAVE BEEN NEIGHBORING BUSINESSES IN THE BOHANNON INDUSTRIAL PARK FOR A NUMBER OF II YEARS. THE U.S. POSTAL SERVICE HAS CONTINUOUS DEALINGS WITH II THIS COMPANY, AND ALL TRANSACTIONS ARE HANDLED WITH PROFESSIONAL COOPERATION. II -OFD ,, ..� - t- '' _ . - ;la j f imp I " = ''''F' •-- --- o " , :6—S—EQUIPMENT AND WANED IT WITHOUT Zf Tom. - - �1 1 di v � f AtAMI 14:7 CTikUDE JONES' I SUPT. OOSTAL OPERATIONS MENLO PARK, CA 94025 1 I I MS r � UNITED STATES POST C =ICE Palo Alto CA 9L303 OUR REF: rh 2 16 C�6 2 / DATE. / 3/82 ' SUBJECT: Eckankar P.O.CL: TO: To Whom it May Concern I have had postal—related contacts with Mr David Ings of the Menlo Park firm of Eckankar for the past three years. During that time I have found I --- them to be cooperative in dealing with mailings, mail problems, and postal products. They have been enthusiatic participants in our local Postal Customers Council and have been attendees at postal seminars, luncheons, and tours of postal facilities. ' The mailing department has shown an interest and adherence to postal regulations as related to the classes of mail they are involved with. The contacts over the past three years have been pleasant and courteous, and I look forward to continued good relations in the future. Sincerely Z X47, 11 Dick Hays, Customer Service Representative Main Post Office Palo Alto CA 94303 1 DN AND VISITOR w 'tC Z Ammon October 27, 1977 c . v Mr. Michael Noe D , a , � ••••••• U Seminar Department "ORD. CONNEG ECKANKAR P.O. Box 3100 Menlo Park, California 94025 Dear Mike: 1 It was a pleasure meeting you during the ECKANKAR-World Wide Seminar just held here in Hartford. It was not only the largest convention Hartford has ever hosted, but also the best. We have heard nothin g but positive remarks from our community P = on "what a delightful group of people those people from ECKANKAR were" . Of all the groups we have hosted in Hartford, we have not heard so many positive reactions from our community as we have heard from those who came in contact with your -- ECKANKAR attendees. We have learned a great deal from your = Seminar in Hartford, and our retail outlets will definitely =_ believe what they couldn't believe prior to your Seminar. . .th= restaurants will stay open, and I 'm sure the health foods stores will be prepared. On behalf of our entire community, we 'd like to thank you for selecting Hartford as a site for your 11th ECKANKAR-World Wide Seminar. We certainly hope that you will look at our city again when you are considering sites for not only your World Wide but also your youth conferences . It has been the pleasure II of our Bureau staff to work with Peter and Bernadette Skelskey for the last couple of years , and we hope that we can work with them again in the near future. They were not only pro- = 111 fessional, but extremely dedicated in making the ECKANKAR-World Wide Seminar a success. Please call our office if there is anything further we can do to assist in wrapping up any final details of your Seminar here in Hartford, and we hope you come back again. Sincerely, Yr /r; David L. Heinl President , DLH:adk cc: Peter Skelskey ' Greater Hartford Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc. Mi ' l \ON AND VISITOR /. S C • t I t U , 1 October 31, 1977 ORD, CONNEG� t Mr. Michael Noe Seminar Director ' P. O. Box 3100 Menlo Park, CA 94025 ' Dear Mr. Noe: May I take this opportunity as Director of Convention Services of the Greater Hartford Convention Sc. Visitors Bureau to express to you my enthusiasm ound the members who attended this seminar to be a truly enjoyabc- group of people. Their cooperation in dealing with housing matters as well ' as matters of transportation, meetings, etc. was pleasant and understandin.— - I particularly enjoyed working with Bernadette and Peter Skelsk- •_ are so fortunate in having them part or vn '-- a you ' aga " - a ' • t a 1r '- was truly a lovely experience for us alt. 111 Sincerely, ' � Kieffer ' Louise ce f f e Director of Convention Services LK:mn 1 I 1 Greater Hartford Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc. ( Radisson Hotel Saint Louis Ninth Street and Convention Plaza Boulevard , St. Louis. MO 63101 Telephone (314)421-4000 November II, 1986 Ms. Joanne S P all Director of Seminars Eckankar 1 P.O. Box 2700 Minneapolis, MN 55427 Dear Joanne: During our conversation in advance of your convention, you mentioned that our 111 staff will like the members of Eckankar International attending your conven- tion. You were correct! - - - - - r rant desk people and restaurant people commented on how patient and ' polite your attendees were, which speaks very highly of your organization. .n•.rt-4.-nt and staff are dedicated to maintannin• ►�'_ service and accom o.• • . - - • - - . • -rs of a pleasant and productive experience. In our efforts to strive for perfection in every area, we welcome your comments regarding our facilities and ability to serve you and your guests. We hope to learn that we will have the opportunity to work with Eckankar in the very near future. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call me at anytime. Kindest regards, ' 1 Gail f lynn Account Executive GF rnem I IN 1 1 IDAHO DEPARTCIENT or P E- 0 Statehouse Mail 2263 Warm Springs Ave. Boise Idaho 33720 1293 384 I 1.0 stir R. P. Peterson, Acting Director 7 ,4_ a Cecil D. Andrus, Dove *,• �x •it E c s' • I 7 C.,1 Farragut State Park • P. O. Box F Athol, Idaho 83801 August 6, 1976 I I Mr. John Jenkins Seminar Director Eckankar P. 0. Box 3100 IMenlo Park, California 94025 Dear John: IThe Eckankar campout a r --°_:-. -4-=- _R -- ,..., ' • Idaho - was successful__. T,- - .-. -- age of 1, 000 people per ni I Jul 1 , I was pleasantly surprised to note very good -vior of the participants. Leaders were very cooperative, problems minimal, rules / and special arrangements followed closely. __ __- I =- - • • _ - -iv e c ankar campouts. I am confident that future hosts for Eckankar Seminars I will be pleased with the cooperation and good will of the group and its leaders . Sincerely, I "- - I Br n W. Rowder Park Manager IBWR/slb I MI • The r • • u zz� afAi 421-kmps CAM P SU M MIT FOR BO Y S CEDAR MOUNTAIN,NORTH CAROLINA 28718 CAMP SUMMIT FOR GIRLS October 12, 1978 I TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN This is to advise that The Summit Camps hosted 1 ECKANKAR for a week the latter part of August, i78, which attracted approximately 2- 0 * = found them to -. cooperative in every way and they I ha- -- ompiete use of all of our facilities including ;rounds, lake, tennis courts, kitchens, dining halls, i etc. Our camp facilities were immaculate when the anyone an ine ECKANKAR group departed and I can' t imagine y --- leaving a place as clean as they did. I am ve- -- I -'uch impressed with this or. - . • and whole- heartedly recommend them in every way. I Sincerely, ' 7 /' Ben M. Cart Owner/Director BMC:kp , I. 455 Valley Drive BMrir BLAKE, MOFFITT & TOWNE Brisbane,CA 94005 A Division of Saxon Industries, Inc. San Francisco,cisc PAPER San Francisco, CA 94119 (415)330-1111 1WX:910-372.7695 I I February 23, 1982 I To Whom It May Concern: II have been doing business with the staff of Eckankar for the last six years. Although I am not an Eckist, I have always found every- one affiliated with Eckankar to be genuine and friendly. At no time Ihas anyone attempted to proselytize me into joining their organization. On the business level, their corporation has always paid its bills I in a timely manner, taking full advantage of our discount offer. It has been a pleasure doing business with Eckankar. Sincerely, Phil Lynn Sales Representative IBlake, Moffitt & Towne /sf I i I I I I ___ CITY1OF i''' CUANBAS SEX 1 ' ' 1 690 COULTER DRIVE • P.O. SOX 147 • CHANHASSEN, MINNESOTA 55317 �^ (612) 937-1900 Il MEMORANDUM I TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: Don Ashworth, City Manager 1 DATE: May 6, 1985 I SUBJ: Eckankar Development Proposal I The City Planner 's/Engineer 's reports deal with the specific site issues associated with the sketch plan. Points not addressed in those reports include: I Religion Although the City Council should not base any decisions on the I religious beliefs of the applicant, the City does have a reason- able right to determine whether the activities of any applicant, I in other locations , have conformed to the zoning/land use regula- tions of those other communities; or would likely conform in our community. Accordingly, this office has directed our Public Safety Department to carry out an investigation of Eckankar ' s I land use activities in their current location in Menlo Park, California. That investigation has revealed: - Eckankar ' s current facility resembles a typical office I complex. No obtrusive signage or other land use activities occur on the property other than those typically associated I with administrative office headquarters; and - No outdoor activities have occurred on the property , nor has the property been used in any form other than typical I administrative activities , nor is any other activity pro- posed in Chanhassen; and - No residential areas are proposed or exist within the I existing complex with such resembling a typical office complex, i.e. administrative offices , secretarial pool areas , and meeting rooms; and II - Governmental agencies and private firms in the vicinity of Eckankar ' s existing facility highly recommend Eckankar as a I supportive member of the community. 1 in Mayor and Council May 6, 1985 Page 2 In summation , no land use problems have existed as a part of Eckankar 's development in California. Rico-gnizing the potential concern regarding outside uses of the property, final development plan approvals should include conditions assuring compliance to existing ordinances . City staff will prepare such conditions ' prior to final plan submittal. Taxes . ' Similar to religion , a City may not approve or deny a proposed land use on the condition that they forfeit their Constitutional rights regarding taxation. Although such cannot be considered as a basis of approval/denial, representatives of Eckankar have s' =L their Clef. re to or 3 of°ca 1. rrorer .-,t », r fully recognized the necessity of a community to sweep steets , plow snow, and provide other services. As such, he stated that Eckankar would be willing to pay local property taxes. As Eckankar has made this commitment to the City, it seemed reason- able that a mechanism be established whereby payment of taxes would reasonably be assured to both current residents as well as I those in the future. Accordingly , I have asked the City Attr.'ney ' s office to research what form of documentation could b:.rst assure representatives of Eckankar and the City that tames ' .,ould be paid at least until such time as a request was made and autually accepted something less than full taxation. e 3'1:P DIC1j) Y y� Rj'd"ri'�: :.: .,�,. .:r y;_ � ..r-`_a I J s,-- �f J-'�.1 �T 1l_ j..- Y..]`_�• 1 ..77.E.7,-.:=•.:52--.:;-• ` .'--.' ''•t'-a_ :.i..F.•••-• �;�x 'rfi \ �ui ±i) ) J I L 1 \ •) >,_..) I •„.1.---1-.;1#!••_•,.,....... -1.. .:na -:4.......-.,:t..''r_: -",- '- : - ` / r ' I ' Lh I -'...---1::;';';4;;C:i ts,1-1:1,Y^.'4Y£{ci . fy'v 3 '!,d V, as�� -Ills ss 3S r r..„. ,..i .., 'T `..t .--•,,,�t,,.+J' 1 5.'"�t+�t} °+.. -1,pt f., .4-..',z.:::.---,, .:. '3` -.e'•..' e .,, a'�`ri �,;1/4 �A' K' .•Fa 44 • •w .t . a. �_�4- -fix nX r \.? t ' jet.,'N y h: •. S ® � m- t:: �t L"�`tss ;"styes"'}ISAC''t y _ r~.: rnri -' >F5 da` `^�}`'ss•ti-tl�I t`'�' - '..- - ,t ' k',a' '"`�;:{:'- "`Y�� s. 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'N.b+_ •ti. W �/.w,__ '1:;', ,: ..A.ra•[,.� - � -: _ _ �'-s: =5i� •i��:I�� - - - +-`-!':ia�-. '''• is:=.- ,�!(;._. 7-.:.,, �se��_ �..�r - _ _ .:;?•p;: - .. ;.....,:..--z:-.4...,-.1.---' i:''C -_ ^, ;.•, ate_ J: ..; ;.;,•n C. Mi Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Ellwood, Robert S.,(date) Religious and spiritual groups in modern America. Bibliography p. 303 a Includes index. 1. United States—Religion. 2. Cults—United States. 1. Partin.Harry B.(Harry Baxter) II. Title. • BL2525.E43 1988 291'.0973 87-17464 ISBN 0-13-773045-4 • • • Editorial/production supervision and interior design: Barbara DeVries Cover design: Wanda Lubelska Design Manufacturing buyer: Margaret Rizzi © 1988, 1973 by Prentice Hall A Division of Simon &Schuster Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632 • - All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, in any form or by any means, without permission in writing from the publisher. { • • • • r• Printed in the United States of America 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 ISBN 0-13-773045-4 01 Prentice-Hal International (UK) Limited,London e - Prentice-Hal of Australia Pty. Limited,Sydney Prentice-Hal Canada Inc., Toronto Prentice-Hal His anoamericana,S.A.,Mexico Prentice-Hal of India Private Limited,New Delhi Prentice-Hal of Japan, Inc., Tokyo Simon&Schuster Asia Pte. Ltd.,Singapore Editora Prentice-Hall do Brasil, Ltda.,Rio de Janeiro r _ i .k . • f f liE GANGES FLOWS WEST:Indian Movements in America F ' ECKANKAR Eckankar, "the ancient science of soul travel," is difficult to place in the classification of religious groups employed in this book. A case could be made for including it among the "ancient wisdom" groups, as its founder, Paul Twitchell, claimed to be the 971st Living ECK Master of the Order of Vairagi in a line said to begin before recorded history. But Eckankar also has a special connection with India (and Tibet) in that Twitchell claimed to have been initiated into soul travel and the ancient mysteries by former Masters Sudar Singh in India and Rebazar Tarzs in the Himalayas of Tibet. More than that, it is reasonably clear that he,like the founder of the Divine Light Mission,was heavily influenced by one of the neo-Sikh groups; in his case it was probably the Ruhani Satsang, founded by Kirpal Singh, which derived from the Radhasoami Satsang Beas. According to David Christopher Lane, author of The Making of a Spiritual Movement,16 Paul Twitchell was initiated by Kirpal Singh during a tour of the United States in 1955. More substantially, certain concepts that appear prominently in Eckankar are remarkably similar to those of the Radhasoami tradition of India,17 in particular,the ideas of the Perfect Master(satguru),of the divine as manifesting itself as sound current, and of the path of return to God. Eckankar has a spiritual cosmology which distinguishes between higher and lower worlds or planes. It distinguishes specifically twelve planes, beginning with the lowest (the physical) and climaxing with the plane of Sugmad, the Eckists' name for God (while allowing that there are yet higher planes not yet realized). The four lowest planes constitute the totality of the physical and psychic worlds (the usual habitat of humans, because of karma and reincarnation). Above them are the spiritual worlds in ascending order. The world of Sugmad is the source of all life; all life flows down from Sugmad.This cosmic current,which flows downward and returns in wavelike fashion, is referred to as Eck; it is comparable to the Shabd of the Ruhani Satsang. The human soul is identified with Eck, the essence of God, the divine spark that dwells in every human. Eck can be known and experienced, for it manifests itself as sound and light, which can be heard and seen by those who attune themselves through spiritual exercises. In broad terms, Eckankar is a variation on the familiar theme of return to God through ascension. Because the soul (atma sarup)is separable from the body, it is able to travel progressively to the higher worlds in the course of which it becomes Self-Realized, God-Realized, and, ultimately, a "co-worker with God" (the meaning of the term Eckankar). Individuality is preserved throughout eternity. "Soul travel" can be experienced on all levels, beginning with the astral plane (immediately above the physical plane). Travel on the astral plane ("astral projection"), however, is little more than a curiosity and a play; it is the exploration of the higher, spiritual worlds that is religiously significant. Eckankar teaches its students (called "chelas") a large number and variety of spiritual exercises,including the use of dreams,imagination, and direct projection, by means of which they may begin to explore the worlds of Eck. For the higher explorations one needs a spiritual guide who can initiate him or her into the higher planes.Such is the essential function of the Eck Masters, especially of the Living Eck Master(comparable to the satguru of the Radhasoami tradition). He can be contacted, as it were, and become accessible not only physically but by means of various spiritual exercises. Many chelas say they meet the Eck Master in their dreams. The Living Eck Master ultimately delivers the chela from the chains of reincar- nation by linking him or her with the divine, cosmic Eck current.The path is long and difficult, however. It begins with overcoming the obstacles to spiritual progress (the five passions: lust, anger, greed, attachment, and vanity). One is then ready to experience the wisdom, charity, and freedom which come from the practice of Eck and to begin the journey through the spiritual planes to the world of Sugmad. Thus one is led to realms where complete spiritual freedom is finally attained. The key word in the appeal of Eckankar is freedom. It offers the experience of freedom of the soul from the body and freedom from the ' I fear of death, for the Eckist knows that death is 1 on y an illusion. It offers freedom from confusion about one's place in the cosmos because the soul I = traveller can view the whole picture from above and see how each piece fits into the cosmic puzzle. Finally, Eckankar offers freedom from the cycle of ` birth and death. Through Eckankar, the soul, the divine spark of God, can soar freely through the worlds and witness at firsthand the beauty of all Sugmad's creations. Most importantly, the divine spark can experience the greatest freedom of all—the freedom to return to the heavenly kingdom of � God. . I = The 971st Living Eck Master, Paul Twitchell, the founder of Eckankar, was in some respects a mysterious figure. There is a biogra- phy,18 but questions have been raised about its reliability.Curiously, it does ih hrh, c may have brl as aou Inot (H e g died ve t in e 1971year.)Similarlyof is bit , thwe hi place h of his birth is een uncertaas ea y in. Wbas it t China 1910. Point, Mississippi, as the biography has it, or was it, perhaps, Paducah, Kentucky?The question is not intrinsically important,but it is indicative of I i some elements of mystery that surround Twitchell—mystery which con- tinued with his accounts of visits to India and Tibet,and initiations and soul 1 travels with past Masters.i° Questions also exist about his involvements with other religious I i groups (besides Neo-Sikhism) in the United States before the founding of Eckankar.20 Our intention is not to denigrate him, but to suggest that in the case of Paul Twitchell, as in some others encountered earlier in this Ii book,an air of uncertainty and mystery is characteristic. As we have seen, it often adds to the appeal and power of the persons possessing it. Paul Twitchell was succeeded by the 972nd Living Eck Master, Dar- win Gross, when after the former's "translation" (death) in 1971 "the Rod I of Power" was passed to him. Eckists claim, however, that after his transla- tion "Shri Paul" is more accessible than ever to the chelas, having been released from such limitations as those associated with physical life. I Eckankar grew substantially under the leadership of Darwin Gross. He is a musician and encouraged Eckists to become interested in music and other k arts, relating it all to spiritual growth. He was also chiefly responsible for the establishment of an impressive international headquarters in Menlo I Park, California. After ten years the Rod of Power was passed to Harold Klemp on October 22, 1981. (October 22nd seems to have been Paul Twitchell's birth date—whatever the year—as well as the date of the official founding of Eckankar in 1965. It also marks the close of the old and the I beginning of the new spiritual year in the Eckists' religious calendar.) Eckankar has an initiatory structure, the details of which are not . made public. However, initiates of the fifth grade or higher are called I "Mandis." Some are chosen to make Eck teaching available to the public and to oversee the satsang classes for chelas. They also perform sacredotal functions, including Eck weddings, initiations, and funerals. "Arahatas" are eligible to teach the satsang classes, in which there is study and discus- I Sion of the Satsang Discourses, written by Twitchell. The Satsang Group, composed of chelas,is Eckankar's principal social expression of its religious experience. At the same time, each chela is said to be under the personal Itutelage and guidance of the Living Eck Master. f I I MN 1 1 Although Eckankar was founded in 1965 and has experienced signifi- cant growth during two decades, it is one of the less widely known new religious movements. Eckankar has maintained a rather low profile, although it has done some advertising (for example, advertisements of some of Twitchell's books in Time magazine and occasionally on television). Eckists are not readily identifiable by dress or other means and do not propagate their faith aggressively. They assume,rather,that when individ- uals are ready for what Eckankar has to offer, the seekers will somehow present themselves and the connection will be made. They respect the religious freedom of others. The experience of the writers is that Eckists tend to be thoughtful, gentle, concerned persons who are "ordinary" in most respects; they hardly fit the stereotype of a "cult member." I Reading Selection: Eckankar In the following selection Paul Twitchell writes of the basic principles of soul travel. , Elsewhere he describes a number of specific techniques for effecting the separation of the soul from the body. The key to soul travel, separation of spirit from body, is made up of three essential, basic principles. The trio of these principles are: thought, light, and sound. Each of these has a part in the leaving and returning to the physical body by one's own volition. Unless those interested in the art of soul-travel-at-will know and use these three basic elements as an integrated media,their success will be limited to the three visible worlds only. Thought, that principle we call action, is done by the faculty of imag- ination. By placing the idea somewhere in some action, thought will be followed by the inner body within the first three worlds. The essential idea here is to make contact with a spiritual traveler who can give assistance in acquiring experience in the state of being outside the body. The second part of the three principles is concerned with the cosmic light, which is a study within itself. The true nature of this phenomenon is that it brings wisdom, love, and bliss to those who are fortunate enough to receive it in its purer form. Often this light will present itself like a rosy glow, a mantle wrapped around the person whom it has chosen as a chan- nel. . . . Sound is the third and most important part of the three principles in the study of soul travel. It is the central theme in every religion, and the creating and sustaining power of the entire universe,including the physical worlds. When St.John wrote in the beginning of his Gospel that the word was God, and all things were made by Him, and without Him nothing was made, he was speaking of the sound, which is found in every religious scripture of the world. This sound stands for all that the Supreme Being is, and what He does in all worlds. In other words, it is the whole of the Divine Being in 1 1 1 . action, and includes all of His qualities. It is through light and sound tha the universal spirit can manifest itself to the human consciousness. I Once the spiritual consciousness is awakened in one, especially in on who has learned soul travel, he may hear the sound, and when he feels it he feels the power of God. This sound is the Divine Being expressin: I Himself in something that is both audible and visible. Once anyone has developed the ability for soul travel, the spiritua hearing can pick up the sound and purification of the mind and soul These are then cleared to be attuned to the higher vibrations. I Anyone wishing to do soul travel can practice it by sitting in silence and being completely relaxed. Once this has been experienced in a fey sessions of practice, the practitioner will find the sound will begin to be heard by the inner sense, and the light will begin to appear to his spiritua_ I eyes. It takes practice,although other techniques by which one can gain this spiritual phenomenon are always available. One can gain this spiritual phe- nomenon by these methods much more quickly than having to wait for it. I The three principles must be integrated: thought, light, and sound. Once out of the body, the great self encounters massive areas of light,but it can move anywhere within these regions by thought—the actions of the other worlds—and pass to wherever desired on beams of sound, for that I desire will be according to self's thought command. These principles become an integrated part within soul and can be used for beneficial aspects for man himself or for a universal need among I his fellowmen. PAUL TWITCHELL, Eckankar: The Key to Secret Worlds (Menlo Park, CA: Illuminated Way Press, 1969), pp. 101-103. Reprinted Iby permission. I NOTES 'Swami Prabhavananda and Frederick Manchester,trans.,The Upanishads:Breath of the Eternal I (New York:The New American Library,Mentor Books,1961),pp. 123-25.Copyright 1957 by the Vedanta Society of Southern California. 2Paramahansa Yogananda,Metaphysical Meditations(Los Angeles:Self-Realization Fellowship, 1964), p. 36. I 3See Charles T.Tart,"A Psychologist's Experience with Transcendental Meditation,"Journal of Transpersonal Psychology, 2, (1971), 135-40; Robert Keith Wallace,"Physiological Effects of Transcendental Meditation,:Science, 167(March 27, 1970), 1751-54;Robert Keith Wal- lace and Herbert Benson, "The Physiology of Meditation," Scientific American, February I 1972, pp. 85-90; Anthony Campbell, M.D., Seven States of Consciousness: A Vision of Pos- sibilities Suggested by the Teaching of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi(New York: Harper Torchbooks, 1973). 4The traditional Indian greeting accompanying palms of the hands pressed together. SJean Varenne, Yoga and the Hindu Tradition, trans. Derek Coltman (Chicago: University of I Chicago Press, 1976), p. ix. 6Mircea Eliade,"Nights at Serampore,"in Two Tales of the Occult,trans.William Ames Coates (New York: Herder&Herrder, 1970), pp.3-60.Eliade practiced yoga at Rishikesh under the direction of Sivananda for six months during his youth. I I I - 6 :to ) R -y" -� -'J• R ". ; -;,;::;:=.'::-...;.:--..---...'1:-. 7k 1H4 SECOND EDITION • Cob 3 .,. , ._ . • - 40. Aril). * ,,,.. .,_ . :::::: . . . IN1DRN _. :..,, HERICA . :. _._._._..._A...._._.._._.__, . Robert S.Ellwood/Harry B.Partin . f Since its debut in 1973, Religious and Spiritual Groups in Modern k= America has enjoyed a highly regarded reputation as a definitive guide to the "new" or "unconventional" religious movements in North America and to the traditions that lie behind them. Now in an updated Second Edition, this monumental work features the fresh insights of Harry B. Partin of Duke University, and reflects the significant changes that have transpired in this area over the past dozen years. - *-"° The immense mass of new historical and sociological studies that have been done on these groups and the bitter controversies about cults, brainwashing, and deprogramming that have arisen around them are all • described here in full detail, as are the developments in the histories of individual groups in the 70s and 80s. The authors have retained the original approach that made the first edition so successful. Maintaining that no religious or spiritual group can be rightly understood without considering why it is so appealing to so many people, Ellwood and Partin emphasize an empathetic, human-centered understanding of the spiritual quest of each group. Among the many movements covered: .,...'4-4,k; "° v° • Indian movements in North America such as Transcendental Meditation ,7 ?M r and the International Society for Krishna Consciousness F‘ • Oriental Movements in North America such as Zen, Buddhism, and the A w� F .-N'; }- Unification Church ' a -t -r�wr i - % .- a -v' • Satanism and other neo-paganistic movements t ", r, `•• Y, 1,.r'"''';*-44.�?;:z., ; : a:i';,; ter, �� • Spiritualism and UFO groups c �.-,. , ;� ...:.,,,h.,. PRENTICE HALL, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 - {:.;7 -- `'!; 4s- - r ISBN 0-13-773045-4 - ,,,..).-,, y 4n.; • , . -w ST ..pY •• ..:r-g .1'.e e tib • A7 '- " (*,' ' <i " ? -�%..n�-....,,T :,: • 4 41: , 9l`-- •e y. , Y�L _ '. •': T -' :;''' 4•r- ,,,_.� s - y .'r�. i Y.,- ' �4' ma rr iw .. ? „ —1" iro :x3. �•J�r.Y'$_ . - •;''',44' i -:+KC `r '1'. :-...k,....' - ;' f . S. ,. , •. I ' LAW OFFICES GRANNIS, GRANNIS, FARRELL& KNUTSON DAVID L. GRANNIS- 1874-1961 PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION TELECOPIER. DAVID L. GRANNIS,JR.- 1910-1980 POST OFFICE Box 57 (612)455-2359 VANCE B GRANNIS 403 NORWEST BANK BUILDING ELLIOTT B KNETSCH VANCE B GRANNIS,JR.• 161 NORTH CONCORD EXCHANGE MICHAEL J MAYER TIMOTHY J BERG PATRICK A. FARRELL SOUTH ST PAUL,MINNESOTA 55075 ' DAVID L. GRANNIS,III ROGER N KNUTSON TELEPHONE(612)455-1661 DAVID L. HARMEYER ' •Also ADMITPEDTO March 6 , 1 989 PRACTICE IN WISCONSIN Mr. Don Ashworth ' Chanhassen City Hall 690 Coulter Drive, Box 147 Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 ' RE: Eckankar Property Dear Don: Enclosed for your information please find copy of analysis of Bud Andrus concerning the market value of the above referenced property. Very truly yours, ' GRANNIS, GRANNIS, FARRELL & KNUTSON, P.A. BY• . j Roger/V. Knut-son RNK s�rn . Enure 1 MAR 71989 ' CITY-OF CHANHASSEN a I Andrus Agency, Inc. Minnetonka Business and Pro ev ionui center 17809 Hutchins Drive, Minnetonka. MN 55145 II Phone 612.474.9443 Fax 612.474.0922 11 March 1 , 1989 I II Mr. Roger Knutson Grannis, Grannis, Farrell , & Knutson II P.O. Box 57 403 Norwest Bank Building South St. Paul , MN 55075 II Dear Mr. Knutson: You asked that I provide you with information on the market value II of Tract B, Registered Land Survey #88 in Chanhassen. Pursuant to that request, I have done some research. The results of this investigation follow. I trust that this will provide you with II the information you need. Should you desire a more formal appraisal outlining in more detail the property involved and the process used in valuing it, please let me know. The work done I here is very preliminary - which I gather is all you seek at this time . The property contains, according to your information, 174 acres . II It is probably the most valuable sizeable tract remaining undeveloped in Chanhassen. It is currently zoned in three districts - Single Family, Mixed Low Density Residential, and II High Density Residential . I met with Jean Meuivissen and the engineering department and 11 found that municipal water service is available all along Powers Boulevard. Municipal sewer is only available on the south 1 , 200 feet. There is an outstanding trunk sewer balance of $220, 800 . The estimated cost of sewer lateral installation is $30 per II lineal foot . These two factors affect the value somewhat. I have reviewed some comparable sales from our files involving II recent sales in the area, but have not done any detailed research. I have also talked with local real estate agents . The value of a property is, of course, determined by what the market II is willing to pay. I found the following information to be helpful in estimating the value of the subject 174 acres . II Real Estate Services for Business I Individual Membership, Society of Industrial&Office Realtors • Certified Commercial & Investment Membership • National Association of Realtors Minneapolis Commercial Multiple Listing Service • Independent Fee Appraisers Association I MI Ii Mr . Knutson March 1 , 1989 Page 2 ' 1 . In the summer of 1988, the B-T Land Company offered to purchase the subject property for $16, 000 an acre. Offer rejected. 2 . The 35 acre site at the southwest corner of Audubon Road and Highway #5 is on the market for $65, 000 an acre. ' *3 . In the summer of 1988, John Bruntjen of Westar Properties offered $19, 000 an acre cash for the entire property. His offer was rejected. 4 . Jim Zachman of Zachman Homes offered $19 , 000 an acre for 28 acres of farm land zoned residential on #101 near Lyman Boulevard. 5. In April of 1988, Gateway Partners paid $4 , 589 an acre for 158 acres on the southeast corner of #5 & #41 . It is ' outside the MUSA line and is zoned for agriculture. 6 . In January of 1987 , Jim Johnson paid $22, 510 an acre for a 7 ' acre site in Jonathan on which to build multi-family residential dwellings . 7 . In September of 1985, a 9 acre parcel. on Highway #5 across the highway from our subject was purchased for the development of Paisley Park for $29, 951 an acre. 8 . On December 30 of 1988, Edward Paul.s purchased a 16 . 9 acre tract in the Chanhassen Lakes Business Park for $18, 935 an acre . It is zoned industrial . ' 9 . In April of 1985, the Douglas Corporation purchased 91 acres on Highway #169 in Eden Prairie. It was subsequently zoned for mixed use. The price was $25, ?75 an acre . 10 . The Kerber property across Powers Boulevard from the subject not extending as far south as 78th Street was purchased in ' 1985 for approximately $8, 500 an acre. This included paying up special assessments . The Kerber property does not have the lakeshore visibility that the subject does . ' 11. . In 1985,. The James Company paid in excess of $20, 000 an acre for the Brose property which is just east of the subject fronting on west 78th Street . ' Andrus Agency, Inc. R aI Estate Scnicts for Business r i i i Mr. Knutson II March 1 , 1989 I Page 3 I INegative factors currently affecting market value of the subject II land are current interest rates, a slight decline in the residential housing market, and the forementioned sewer I situation . II There are several positive factors : 1 . The location is excellent - on a soon to be four lane highway within walking distance of Chanhassen 's "downtown" . II 2 . The amenities that go with lakeshore living are present. I3 . It is close to the city park. II 4 . It is close to the city ' s main employment base. 5. It is one of a very few such properties left in Chanhassen. I As mentioned earlier, this is not an in depth report and should I not be construed as such. Based upon this limited study, it is my opinion that the subject property has a current market value I of: II THREE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS I ( $3, 500, 000 .00 ) II I thank you for this opportunity to be of service. Call me if Iyou have any questions or require a more detailed report. IIRespectfully submitted, I (:)36446444, II Bud Andrus IEnclosure I BA/cc I I I 1 I Andrus Agency, Inc. -" I Real Estate Serb ices for Business i 1I ir i ` 1r CONTINGENT AND LIMITING CONDITIONS II The property has been considered as though it were free and clear of any indebtedness , liens , or encumbrances ; and good I and marketable title and competent management is assumed , 1 unless otherwise stated . No responsibility is assumed by the appraiser for matters ' which are legal in nature . No survey has been made . It is assumed that the improvements are located within the legally described property and that the buildings comply with all ordinances , except as noted . 1 The appraiser has no present or contemplated interest in the property appraised . Employment is not in any manner 1 contingent upon the value reported . Possession of the report , or any copy or part thereof , does ' not carry with it the right of publication . Further , all of the data contained herein must be used as a whole . Any page or portion taken out of context cannot stand alone and invalidates the entire appraisal . 1 The appraiser herein shall not be required to appear in court or before any board or governmental body by the reason 1 of the completion of this assignment without predetermined arrangements and agreements . The data contained in this report has been gathered from 1 reliable sources but is in no sense guaranteed . The appraiser certifies that to the best of his knowledge and belief , the statements , opinions , and material contained 1 in this appraisal ; subject to any noted limiting conditions ; are correct . 1 1 1 1 IAndrus Agency, Inc. Real Estate Services for Business QUAL ft .;ATIONS OF BUD ANDRUS, I.F.A.S._ II BUSINESS BACKGROUND Real Estate Appraiser and Broker since 1957. Currently engaged in appraising, consulting, selling and leasing commercial and industrial land and buildings. PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS Designations: Senior Member, National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers Certified Commercial & Investment Member of National Board of Realtors Society of Industrial Realtors (Member of National Appraisal Committee & President, Mid-Continent Chapter) Minneapolis Board of Realtors (Former Director, Officer, Committee Chairman, and Member of Appraisal Committee) Minnesota and National Association of Realtors National Association of Industrial and Office Parks Metro Data Exchange Organization of Commercial Realtors CONSULTING AND APPRAISAL CLIENTS INCLUDE Local Businesses: Cargill, Inc. Kallestad Laboratories M.T.S. U. S. Bedding Corp. Northern Contracting Co. Lyman Lumber Co. Northern States Power Co. AT&T American Crystal Sugar Co. American Linen Eaton Corporation Continental Oil Company Fingerhut, Inc. Minnetonka, Inc. Waconia Manufacturing Midwest Motor & Equipment United Telephone Co. Ridgeview Hospital Westinghouse Co. Production Credit Assoc. Medallion Kitchens S. & M. Company FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS: PROFESSIONAL BUILDINGS: N.W. National Bank of Mpls. Osage Professional Bldg. 1st National Bank of Mpls. Camden Emerson Clinic The Bank Excelsior Excelsior Professional Bldg. 1st National Bank of Chaska Chaska Medical Center 1st National Bank of Victoria Excelsior Animal Hospital 1st National Bank of Waconia River Bluffs Clinic Waconia & Carver County State Banks MUNICIPALITIES: SCHOOL DISTRICTS: City of Minnetonka Minnetonka School District City of Chanhassen Chaska School District City of Chaska Watertown-Mayer School Dist. City of Victoria Waconia School District City of Eden Prairie Orono School District City of Waconia U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development I Land Development Projects, Many Area Churches, Retail Businesses, Attorneys, and Private Parties Andrus Agency, Inc. Real Estate Services for Business ' /4- S \ e a - /(' C I LA\x-C)EEI(IS GRANNIS, GRANNIS, FARRELL & KNIITSON DAVID L. GRANNIS- 1874-1961 PROEESSIONAI.ASS( (I,11 ION II:1.{i(OPIF:R I DAVID L. GRANNIS,JR.- 1910-1980 Pr)sF()I rI E B' x 57 (612)455-2359 403 NOR■x I:sF BANK III IILDING ELLIOTT B. K I':TSCII VANCE B GRANNIS MIUTAEI.J MAYER I VANCE B GRANNIS,.112,• 161 NUR II-I C ON(Y)RD Iix(VIA NGE T{NUT{IY J BERG PATRICK A. FARRELL DAVID L. GRANNIS,III S( on ST PA{)I. MINNESOTA 55075 ROGER N KNUTSON TEI.EEIIUNI'(612) 455-1661 DAVID L. HARMEYER I •AISOAUNIVJT)To March 6 , 1 989 PRACFRRF N WISCONSIN IIMr. Bud Andrus Andrus Agency, Inc. Minnetonka Business and Professional Center I 17809 Hutchins Drive Minnetonka, Minnesota 55345 I Re: Tract B - Registered Land Survey No. 88 Carver County, Minnesota II Dear Mr. Andrus: This letter is to confirm our telephone conversation regarding the above parcel of land. The City has received an application I for a conditional use permit from Eckankar to use the property as a church. The City zoning ordinance establishes certain general standards for conditional uses. One of these standards is that I the conditional use will not depreciate surrounding property values. It is my understanding that you are able to do an analysis to ' determine whether or not the proposed use would depreciate surrounding property values. I request that you furnish the City an estimate of your charges to do such analysis and provide a IIwritten report. If you need any additional information regarding the proposed Iuse, please contact Steve Hanson, City Planner, at 937-1900 . Very truly yours, IGRANNIS, GRANNIS, FARRELL & KNUTSON, P.A. I By: IDavid L. Grannis , III DLGIII/klt cc: Mr. Don Ashworth, Chanhassen City Manager IMr. Steve Hanson, City Planner MAR 7 1989 I LI I Y OF CHANHASSEN IN I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 2 II PUBLIC HEARING: II CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A CHURCH ON PROPERTY ZONED R-4, MIXED LOW DENSITY AND LOCATED 1/4 MILE NORTH OF HWY 5 AND WEST OF II POWERS BOULEVARD, ECKANKAR CHURCH, PETER BECK. Public Present Name Address II Mitch & Janet Weaver Bloomington, MN II Dave & Leneda Rahe 1021 Carver Beach Road Gail Kurtz Chanhassen Fred Koppelman - Eden Prairie II Tim Bollig Chanhassen Barbara Coldagelli Chanhassen Kathleen Wendland Chanhassen Jeanne Burke Chanhassen II Paula Whittiar Chanhassen Carol Nelson Chanhassen Greg & Sheryl Thornberg Bloomington II David Pedersen Chanhassen Villager Matt & Laurie Hoffman Chanhassen Signe Karschnik Chanhassen I i J .m Pasek Hopkins Marion Ziegler Chanhassen Susan Johnsrud Chanhassen Bob Cunningham Chanhassen I John Horsayer Chanhassen Madeline Hickey Chanhassen Glenn & Bonnie Hageman Chanhassen II Dan & Marilyn Mahady Minnetonka Roger Downing Chanhassen Lee Valle Chanhassen Rev. Dan Peterson Chanhassen II Tim & Carol Vadnai.s Victoria Todd Casey Victoria Bobbie Krespard Chanhassen II Ross Kamed Chanhassen Dave & Diane Quackenbush Chanhassen Carol Barrett Chanhassen II Dawn Opitz Chanhassen Julia Pims Chanhassen Carol Watson 7131 Utica Lane Ken Groen 7329 Frontier Trail II Alan R. Johnson 1044 Pontiac Lane Bill Boyt 7204 Kiowa Circle Hans Skalle 8071 Santa Vera Drive II Gordon J. Nagel 514 Del Rio Drive Jim Eastling 7285 Pontiac Circle Jean Way 7126 Utica Lane Robert & Marjorie Anderson 7090 Tecumseh Lane II Kenneth Horns 111 Third Avenue So . , Minneapolis Alan Leirness 608 2nd Ave. So . , Minneapolis II NI II Planning Commission Meeting ' March 1, 1989 - Page 3 IIName Address II Jeff & Julia Farmakes 7100 Utica Lane Aleta Lownsbury 8000 Dakota Avenue Janice Dui.ninck 8000 Dakota Avenue Mavis Ei.ler 7000 Shawnee II Dawne Erhart 775 West 96th Street Bill & Kathy Engebretson 7120 Utica Lane Pat Albrecht 6951 Tecumseh Lane II Jim & Judy Landkammer 6901 Utica Lane Janet Lash 6850 Utica Lane Barbara Klick 7116 Utica Lane I Greg Blaufuss 7116 Utica lane Dan Lutenegger 111 Thi.rd Ave So . , Mi nneapol i.s Charles Ri.ckart 111 Third Ave So . , Minneapolis John Shardlow DSV Inc. , 300 1st Ave No . , Minneapolis I Jim Larkin Peter Sussman 6671 Minnewashta Parkway 300 1st Ave No . , Minneapolis Barry Warner 111 Third Ave So. , Minneapolis II Ronald Krank KKE Architects , 300 1st Ave So . , Mpls . Tom Barrett 7051 Redman Lane Tim Keane 7900 Xerxes Ave So. , Bloomington IVSteve Hanson presented the staff report . Chairman Conrad called the public hearing to order . 1 Rober Hoffman : Mr . Chairman and members of the Planning Commission , II Robert Hoffman, 1500 Northwestern Financial Center. I 'm an attorney with the firm of Larkin , Hoffman, Daly and Lindgren and we represent the applicant, Eckankar in it' s application for a conditional use permit as a church . We do have a substantial amount of material to present to you and IIwe will present to you the drawings and sight lines and a number of other matters to assist you in making your decision. Two lawyers in our firm have been working with me on this matter and I 'd like to introduce them. I Mr . Peter Beck who is over here and Mr. Jim Larkin who is sitting over in this area . Very briefly, our firm has had the opportunity to spend a considerable amount of time on land use matters in this metropolitan area II over the last 25 years primarily representing people who want to develop land . Through that experience we ' ve become reasonably familiar with the requirements of the cities in the metropolitan area as to either zoning or conditional uses and advise our clients to comply with those conditions as I set up by the various communities . We' ve had experience that range from residential to stadiums in downtowns to megamalls to restaurants and to industrial buildings and to churches. Most members of our firm have II experience in the City of Chanhassen . Two or three developments that we worked on, the CPT development, the McDonalds restaurant, Fox Chase and some others . I indicate that to you so that you have a background as to _` how we approach the land use matter . It is also combined with some II experience from the public sector . For example, I had the opportunity to spend 14 years on the Bloomington City Council and 7 years on the Metropolitan Council and had the opportunity to chair the Physical IN Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 4 k Development Committee which produced the development framework under which all the comprehensive plans in all the cities are governed. That may be good or bad , depending on how you look at it. Working on this project with us have been a number of consultants and professionals who I 'd like to also introduce at this time. First is Mr . Ron Krank who is an architect and is a co-founder of the firm of Korsunsky, Krank and Erickson and has been practicing architecture for the last 26 years . Has been involved in over 1, 000 buildings throughout the country. Also has experience in Chanhassen and his firm has worked on the Press , Instant Webb, Redman Products and several others. They' ve also had extensive work on churches . They' ve been in charge of the 10 year plan for Mount Olivet Church and he was the lay leader of the Temple of Israel 's 4 million dollar addition recently. Assisting him has been Mr . Peter Sussman who is also here. Mr. Dan Lutenegger who is a principle with the firm of Barton- Aschman has had 14 years experience in environmental analysis and related matters and has been involved in the voluntary EAW that we have submitted to the City. Mr . Charles Rickart who is back there is also with the firm of Barton-Aschman and has a Bachelors degree in Transportation as a transportation engineer and prepared the traffic analysis that has been submitted to the City. Mr. Barry Warner is also with the firm of Barton- Aschman. Has a Bachelor degree in landscaping. Is a Landscape Architect . Has 12 years with that background and has produced the landscape plan for the church . Mr . Ken Horns is also with the firm of Barton-Aschman and has a civil engineering degree from the University of Minnesota and has been 4' practicing civil engineering for 8 years and assisted us in the erosion control , sanitary sewer systems and utilities part of the plan. Mr . Ken Horns is also with the firm of Barton-Aschman and has also been assisting us in the development process. The consultants that I 've just reviewed with you helped us prepare the voluntary Environmental Assessment Worksheet which was submitted to the City and addresses all of the environmental matters that would be involved in a development of this type. In addition to those professionals , we have submitted to the City the opinions of two other professionals who I 'd like to introduce at this time. One is Mr. John Shardlow. Mr. Shardlow has a business degree in landscape architectur . He specializes in urban design. He ' s a principle in the firm of Dalgren, Shardlow and Urban. Has been a planning consultant in many cities in this particular area including several ' surrounding cities and has also had the opportunity to work in the city of Chanhassen . He has rendered an opinion which we have filed with the city of record as to the use of this property and it' s impact under your ordinances from the viewpoint of a professional planner . Land planner . Finally Mr. Alan Leirness who is the Vice President of Robert Bobli.n and Associates and is a professional appraiser and has appraised real estate in the city of Chanhassen for over the last 8 years . He has submitted to the city his observations as a professional planner as to the lack of a detrimental impact of this particular development on surrounding properties . What we will present to you this evening is a summary of the material that we presented in our application which is a part of the ( record of the city. The statements of the professionals I ' ve introduced have been submitted to the city and are also a part of that particular record . We will review with you the background of Eckankar in acquiring this piece of property. We will review with you the physical plans for the church and you' ve already heard the staff ' s report which is part of I Planning Commission Meeting 11 March 1, 1989 - Page 5 c the record and we will not comment on that . All of the professionals then will be available for questions that you wish to raise. The following - 1 have been submitted to the City and we want to note them as part of this record for your consideration and I believe you should have had the opportunity to have received copies of these but in the event you haven ' t, I wanted to just identify them. The first is our letter to the City of I January 29 , 1989 which accompanied the conditional use application. Second is our application itself. The conditional use permit. Third is the certification of Peter Skelskey to Ministerial Credtials on file in I Hennepin County to perform marriages. Fourth is the requirements for a conditional use in the city and our compliance with each one of your standards and criteria. Next is a copy of the title for the Eckankar I property showing the church holding the title to the property as owner . Next is a voluntary Environmental Assessment Worksheet prepared to assist you in evaluating public utilities , drainage, transportation and environmental matters and other items related to that. Next we ' ve I submitted you a complete set of plans on an 8 1/2 x 11 format which is required by your ordinance. We' ve also submitted a photocopy of 2 or 3 pages from a publication used in universities entitled Religious and II Spirtual Groups in Modern America which is the 2nd Edition of that publication. Originally published in 1973 and republished in 1988 . The material we' ve furnished you with is from the 1988 publication. We' ve also submitted you information that Eckankar is a tax exempt religious I organization under Section 501 (C) (3) of the Federal Internal Revenue Code. i We' ve also submitted to you evidence that Eckankar is a church under Section 170BIAi of the Federal Internal Revenue Code and under Section I 1. 511-2A3i.i of the Income Tax Regulations . We also submitted to you evidence that Eckankar Priests are authorized under the laws of the State of Minnesote to solemnize marriages . Eckankar has over 290 centers I throughout the world . It currently has members in 92 countries internationally. It has had a local center in the Twin Cities since 1973 and was first located in St. Paul and now in the last 14 years has been located in the city of Minneapolis . In 1985 Eckankar purchased the I subject property which is at the intersection of TH 5 and CR 17 for the purpose of relocating it ' s international headquarters from Menlo Park, California and establishing an admi.nstrative campus in the city of I Chanhassen. That proposal was made pursuant to the then designated plans by the city for that piece of property as what' s known as a business campus . That designation had been placed on that piece of property at the suggestion of a prior owner or contract purchaser . That concept plan I which was submitted in 1985 included an adminstrative office building , design, graphic, audio visual and publishing facilities and that concept plan was approved by the Planning Commission of this City and the City I Council in 1985. Eckankar subsequently withdrew that request for that use on that particular property and located it ' s international headquarters in the city of New Hope, Minnesota where it has had it' s headquarters since I that time. Chanhassen rezoned the Eckankar property from planned residential development to RSF, R-4 and R-12. However , your comprehensive plan still carries the designation of campus business land use for that particular piece of property although it ' s our understanding that it ' s I been the intent of the City to change that comprehensive plan use to residential also to be consistent with your zoning. Churches are conditional uses under your ordinance in a residential zone. Churches are Mill I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 6 C also allowed in campus business category of your ordinances . In the event there ' s a conflict between the ordinances of zoning and your comprehensive plan , Minnesota Statutes provides that zoning controls . The church itself will be a building concentrated to religious worship. People will join together in public worship under the direction of a person authorized by the laws of the State of Minnesota to solemnize marriages . The church will have a 800 seat sanctuary, a caretakers residence, classroom facilities and other areas detailed on the plans as submitted. All as permitted by your zoning ordinance. Office space will be provided only for the adminstrative staff to serve the everyday needs of the church. The international headquarters will stay in New Hope, Minnesota . The first visuals that we'd like to show you will be the general location of the church on the property and thereafter some sight lines and viewsheds from various surrounding areas of the property. The church design itself and some characteristics of the church building . The parcel is 174 acre parcel . The church would be located virtually in the center of the parcel . The gross square footage of the building is 48 , 000 square feet . It' s a single level building with a walkout lower level . This is the site which we indicated is 174 acres . The top is the north and to my left is the west. That' s Lake Ann. The bottom of the visual is the south and then to the right is the east . That ' s CR 17 shown in that direction . TH 5, Peter if you ' ll show them TH 5 and then the entrance to the park . The church you ' ll see is virtually in the center of the facility and to the bottom of the church is the parking area. As I indicated, the site is 174 acres . The building will cover 7/10ths of 1 acre or approximately 4/10ths of the site. The amount of impervious coverage will be 5. 7 acres or approximtely 3. 3% of the site . The parking area , which you see below the church proper is 2. 3 acres or approximately 1.3% of the site. There will be approximately 20 church employees during the day. The sanctuary will seat approximately 800 persons in the sanctuary part of the church . The number of parking spaces are 276 which comply with the ordinance of Chanhassen and including handicapped parking spaces , that will be approximately 290. Under the definition of height in your zoning ordinance, the church has a zoning ordinance height of 36 feet. The actual height of the front of the building is appoxi.mately 50 feet and at the walkout level it' s approximately 65 feet but your zoning ordinance uses a formula for measuring height based on setback and configuration and according to your zoning ordinance, the height is 36 feet for the purpose of your zoning ordinance. Setbacks from the property and Peter if you' ll point these out, from the east is approximately 3 blocks . 3 city blocks . From the west , from the lake is approximately 3 1/2 city blocks over to the park area. To the north it ' s approximately 6 1/2 city blocks and to the south it' s also approximately 6 1/2 city blocks . Access to the property would be off of CR 17 at that location as indicated by Mr. Beck. We have some additional studies now which we will review with you. The first is an overall graphic to show you certain sight lines into the property from surrounding neighborhood areas . Peter if you ' ll point out the location of the church and we are going to take you through several sight lines starting in the lower left hand corner of the visual which is approximately the entrance to the park. The next area that we' ll show you will be at TH 5 and CR 17 and then we ' ll move up to approximately the entrance to the church facility which you see up there at number 4. At the top you' ll see number 5 , from the northern area of the neighborhood . I II Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 7 f f k IIWe will show you both what we call cross sections that ct you the height according to scale of both natural conditionscanndstheow� ng I church and any existing buildings that may be off of the church property. Along with those cross sections , we also have used what ' s called a computer aided device in which we simulate with the architects the views I from those same locations and those will be shown. After that, we will take you onto the site and show you graphics related to what are shown as item 6, 7 and 8 which bring you up closer to the building and then we will show you some renderings of the building itself. The top is a view, cross I cut from the northern part of the property. Unfortunately the screen isn ' t wide enough but on my left you' ll see a home which is difficult to see on this visual but it' s to size, looking through, as I said , I approximately 3 1/2 blocks to the church . The trees that you see are trees that remain on the site. Are on the site and are to scale. The next visual takes you as a cross cut from the property to the east and shows a 2 story home and again shows approximately a couple blocks I distance and the church as it relates to that particular house. The next visual is , that middle one is from the east again. From the driveway and takes you in, it looks across the site from the driveway into the site . I The last visual is one that comes from the lake side through the trees that remain and shows you the church in relationship to the trees and the lake. The topography that you see is the existing topography as it will IIremain after the church is constructed . This is the entrance to the park r + and this is , as I say, a computer generated model to scale that shows how the church will be viewed from the park entrance. Peter is pointing to the church. The next slide is from TH 5 and CR 17. As you come over the 1 railroad bridge, that ' s CR 17 going in and the church , we' ve highlighted in the background as you can see. II Peter Beck : This one would be at the intersection. The next one should be from the bridge. I Robert Hoffman : Alright . This is from the entrance into the facility. The entrance sign and behind the trees you ' ll see the church. This is from the north part of the property looking towards the church and those II are existing trees and the church is in the background. This is a site plan of the church itself with the entrance coming off of CR 17 into the property. The parking facility and the church facility. We have some cross sections that relate to views on the property itself. These again IIare the same cross sections we had before. The first is a cross section showing you coming in the entrance driveway and it shows a car entering into the driveway of the church. The next is through the berms on the parking lot . The parking lot, Peter if you ' ll point out where the parking II lot is and you ' ll see the berming that surrounds the parking lot. The next is a cross section in the parking lot itself and illustrates the berming and landscaping . The particular light standard you see was the Ilight standard with the original application which I belive was like 22 feet. Staff has recommended that be lowered to 17 feet and we have since modified it and lowered it to 17 feet . The last one is another cross II\ section through the parking lot showing the berming that will surround the parking lot itself. Then very quickly we will show these CAD produced graphics from those virtually same locations . This one again is half way IIup the driveway going to the church facility. The next one is halfway E Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 8 r onto the property looking at the church through the parking lot . The third one is again half way on the property looking up from TH 5 so we' ve about 3 blocks into the property at that particular location. If you will back up to the site plan. The church has been sited to take advantage of all existing grades so the minimal amount of earth movement will be required and the least amount of disturbance. The church wants to sit in a natural area and the original concept of the church several months ago was further to the north . In that particular locations , we would have been removing some mature trees and the church decided therefore to move it further to the south so as to not to disturb any of the existing trees on the site. None of the existing trees will be disturbed by this particular development . Traffic circulation is by the way of a two way drive entrance with a drop off door at the entrance of the church and as I indicated , including handicap parking, 290 parking spaces . This is in accordance with your ordinance. Is in excess of what we expect will be utilized but it does comply with your ordinance. There are service drives to the north and east sides of the building. One is , there' s an internal trash container and the other is to the caretakers garage. Lighting has been designed to comply with the City Code and extensive landscaping has been provided . We have described that landscaping in the EAW and if you have any questions in regards to it, our landscape architect is available. Next, Tim if you' ll go to the rendering of the church itself. This is the architectural design of the church. We have the material board , Ron if " you will please . The colors are going to be a neutral colors of Kasota stone, which is smooth Kasota stone. It ' s a rough Kasota stone and some architectural masonary as you see on the particular development plan and drawing. The roof as recommended by staff will be matte and it will be of that beige type of color . Accent will be by the dark color that Mr . Krank is pointing to. As to the interior part of the church, which incidentally is not part of the conditional use requirement but we will run through it very briefly for you anyway. If you ' ll flip to that church. This is the main floor of the church. I 've got too many years on me to be able to read that but the sanctuary and then the chapel and foyer which have provisions for robing for bride and groom for marriages and a coat storage area. Around the sanctuary are some religious classrooms and a religious reading room. To my left are some of the offices of the religious staff and the administrative staff. As I indicated, the church will not house any publishing facilities . Those will remain in New Hope. There will not be a theological seminary on site. There will not be a daycare center nor any of the other prohibited uses under your zoning code . The lower walkout level , this is the lower walkout level which has a fellowship hall and kitchen. There is an employee lounge. There is a children activity area . Caretaker ' s apartment and a caretaker ' s garage and miscellaneous storage and mechanical areas . The only living quarters on the premises are the caretaker ' s quarters . I think that ' s the end of the slides . Your staff has already reviewed with you it ' s report and has reviewed with you as to how the application complies with the ordinances of the City of Chanhassen. We have submitted to you either yesterday or this evening our letter in response to the staff ' s recommendations for 15 conditions . That letter is part of the record. We have already prepared and revised the plans to be consistent with those 15 recommendations and I 'm going to briefly review those with you. The first was to add trees to the center landscape islands with the parking lot . We are adding and will add , and I Planning Commission Meeting II c March 1, 1989 - Page 9 IIthe plans reflect that additional landscaping which will comply with the recommendation. Condition 2 was the curb, the parking lot edge where head 1 in parking stalls are shown . Our response is we will comply with that recommendation and Barton-Aschman has revised the plans to show the requested curbs . Condition 3 was that the entrance sign not be II illuminated . We never intended to illuminate it but that does not show on our plans so now we' ve specifically noted it on the plans that the entrance sign will not be illuminated. A fourth condition was to reduce the lighting poles to 18 feet in height and we have now reduced the 1 lighting poles to 18 feet in height. To meet safety standards, we' ve had to add 2 additional poles in order to get the necessary flood for those lights and our lighting plan has now been revised to provide for those I additional lighting poles and to reduce the height . Condition 5 is the roof material have a matte finish and not a glare. The roof material will be non-reflective. It will have a matte finish and it will have a non-glare finish. Number 6, the exterior of the building not be bathed in I light, was the phrase , and we have talked with staff on that particular matter and staff confirmed that they did not want the building bathed in light . The building will not be bathed in light . There will be some II building illumination around the entrances for safety purposes and there will be some very low level illumination around again , primarily for safety purposes , around the church itself so it ' s very typical of many IF buildings you ' ll see in the city of Chanhassen as far as low illuminated light around a building of this nature and complies with the standards set forth in Article 6, Section 17 of your zoning ordinance . Condition 7 is that the proposed island at the entry should not extend into CR 17 . II Barton-Aschman has revised the plan so the island does not extend into CR 17. Condition 8 , it was that the plan be presented showing the proposed road grade and cross sections and identify why a large radius was needed I at the entrance and reduce the radius to less than 50 feet . The plans have been revised . The radius is reduced to 50 feet and detailed road plans and cross sections will be submitted to both the City and the County with the construction permit applications . Condition 9 is that the turn I lanes be required on the entrance and should also include a turn lane design details . Our response is turn lanes are being provided and the plans will specify the dimensions of those turn lanes and those specific I details will be submitted both to the City and to the County. Condition number 10 is the applicant be required to submit construction plans and specifications for the installation of watermain and sanitary sewer lines I to be approved by the City Engineer . The utility plans now incorporate the City Engineer ' s recommendations that the sewer line be sized to 8 inches and again, detailed construction plans and specifications be submitted both to the City and the County at the time of the construction I application permit. Condition 11, runoff calculation be submitted to conform with the pre-development runoff criteria of the Watershed District and City are being complied with. The runoff calculations now confirm I with the criteria requirements of the Watershed and the City will be complied with. Condition 12, a drainage easement be dedicated to the City ( in accordance with the attached legal description and sketch to II'',_ accommodate storm water runoff. The Eckankar will provide a drainage easement sufficient to accommodate all the drainage from it ' s property. If a larger drainage easement is necessary to accommodate off site drainage , that will be provided pursuant to typical compensation for a property I MI I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 10 owner carrying off site drainage . Condition 13 , necessary permits from the County and Watershed District be obtained and complied with prior to construction and we will obtain those prior to construction. Condition 14, a roadway cross section be submitted for review along with a skimmer detailed plan . The skimmer detailed plan has been added to the plans and it meets the City requirements for construction permit including a cross section of the roadway. Finally, condition 15, applicant use Type III erosion control . The plans have been revised to specify Type III erosion control . In addition to the 15 conditions that were highlighted by your Planning Director , the Fire Inspector recommended 6 additional requirements and we are telling you on the record that we have submitted information which we comply with all those 6 requirements as requested by your Fire Inspector . If there are any further recommendations that address the conditional use made by you as a Planning Commission and the City Council , we will incorporate those in the design plans before the Council reviews the development. Members of the Commission, that is our presentation . As I indicated at the beginning of my comments , we have asked the City to incorporate into your record for your review and the City Council review, all the written material that we' ve submitted to the City. We will be submitting all of the graphics to the City in a form that can be kept in your records and we have submitted all of the statements of our consultants that address all of the matters that are necessary for acting upon a conditional use permit . I know that you have a number of people here that want to comment on the application, and we ' re available for questions . Do you have any questions at this time? Conrad: I think later we will . Just to review what I said in the beginning , one of the things that we do here as Planning Commissioners is we help design the guidelines that we use for Chanhassen to grow and those turn into ordinances and other types of vehicles like that . At this point, we ' re going through, we' re measuring an application to those guidelines . Those legal guidelines . If you were paying attention, our City Staff went through the 12 points that we legally have to review when an application comes in. Those are how we measure whether an application meets or fails our guidelines. So tonight , the Planning Commission will be looking at those 12 points and seeing how the application measures up. I know you don' t remember all 12 and that ' s our job to look at what the staff has recommended but as you recall , staff did recommend that the applicant met all 12 of our guidelines that we legally can enforce in this or any particular conditional use process . So as I open up the public hearing, I just want you to remember that we ' re going to be taking your input and balancing it or , not balancing it but measuring it against those particular guidelines that will influence our recommendation tonight . With that aside , I think we will open it up for public comment . Again , what I 'd like you to do, I ' ll call on you. I would like you to take the podium. State your name and address and we will listen to your comments . Leneda Rahe: Good evening City Planning Commission and service of Chanhassen . I ' d like to present a petition to you . My name is Leneda Rahe. I live at 1021 Carver Beach Road and I ' ve been a resident of Chanhassen for approximately 2 years . I ' d like to , at this time also , before I present the petition, present some concerns and some information . I believe that a lot of the people here at this meeting do not know a lot MIR I 1 Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 11 r of what has happened prior to this meeting and g I would like to just give a brief summary. Eckankar purchased the property in 1985. They came in I with a proposal for their international headquarters and at that time the property was zoned for residential and they did not meet the zoning requirements . They then settled their headquarters in New Hope. They had I moved here from Menlo Park, California. In that timeframe , between then and now, they have obtained the tax exempt status they did not have before which has qualified them for this title of a church. Now they have come back with a proposal which is allowed in the zoning regulations . The 174 I acres adjacent to Lake Ann Park has been considered by the community to be a very valuable plot of land for our needs since we are a growing community and we would like to ask questions about that because most of us I had thought that it had been a possible site for a community center . Many of the people here had no idea that Eckankar owned the property or who or what Eckankar was. I feel that they have a right to know who Eckankar is and I would also like at this time for the requirements to be reread . Just number 1 if possible. Could you reread number 1 for me? Conrad : Will not be detrimental or endanger the public health , safety, Icomfort, convenience or general welfare of the neighborhood or the City. Leneda Rahe : That is one that I , as a member of this community, would like to contest and I feel that many of us here would like to contest that our comfort and the safety and our health might be affected by the settling of Eckankar . Many of you when you came to the door tonight were offered an information pamphlet . There are quotes there about Eckankar I themselves which clearly call them a cult. They deny they are a cult. A cult means group or sect deviating from society ' s norms or values according to the World Book Encyclopedia, Copyright 1988 . Also , occult I means secretive and they are that . They' re founder , Paul Twi.tchell who is now deceased, has clearly called them this in the quotations that you see from their very own writings. After Paul Twitchell , their founder , died I in 1971 or 1974 , their new Eck Master , which is Darwin Gross , married Paul Twitchell ' s wife Gale and then he became the Eck Master . An Eck Master is someone who, as you also see, they completely surrender to him and he is the only path to total freedom. The reason that I mention this is because I they also have relayed information to us which I feel is dishonest in saying that they do not have any mind control involved in their organization. That, I feel , would be a health hazard to us. First of 1 all , dealing with the fact at hand , I feel that we need more information from them regarding many issues. We have a lot of people here who would like to speak so I won ' t tie up the podium any longer but on behalf of the residents of Chanhassen, each of you will be receiving a petition. One of I the, also I feel one of the reasons for having a church in a community is to meet a need which already exists . As we had made available to us through the Chanhassen Villager a quote by Peter Skelsky, a priest of I Eckankar , he noted that he would be here to serve the Chanhassen are and the metropolitan area. As I ' ve been talking to the people of the community, I have yet to meet an Eckankar member who is here that needs to _ be serviced and we would like to contest that also because we feel that , I and we know that it is not going to meet a need which already exists in our community. Especially since they' re a tax exempt organization and all of us know that we are the third highest of a 150 some suburbs in the Twin I I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 12 r r l Cities as far as tax . We are the highest taxed , the third highest taxed and we will be paying for other property taxes for 175 acres for a facility which does not meet any need of our community. That is exactly what the petition states . Bill Engelbretson : My name is Bill Engelbretson. I live at 7120 Utica Lane and we' re an adjacent property owner on the north side of the Eckankar property so we' ll see the view of the pyramid as shown from the north. I guess my real concern is that, as shown my this meeting tonight , people are going to think there are unusual things going on out there and our property abuts on it and when I come to sell my property, people aren ' t going to want to live there. Directly adjacent to it. I disagree with the staff. I think it' s going to have a real adverse affect upon my property value. Fred Koppelman : My name is Fred Koppelman . I live at 18890 Deerfield Trail in Eden Prairie. I don ' t live in Chanhassen. I 'm a friendly neighbor and I 'm here because I am very concerned about the affects of Eckankar church moving here. I guess I feel if the Communist Party USA were to come here to locate , I 'd be bothered about that. If the Ku Klux Klan would come, I 'd be bothered about that too. If the American Nazi Party, I 'd be bothered about that too . I think it ' s the effects that it would have. They physical plant , looks beautiful and I 'm sure that ' s no ' •' problem at all for any of us . But as a neighbor , I live just across the line and I would urge you to think very carefully about this . Janet Weaver : My name is Janet Weaver . We just placed an offer on a home last night that was accepted in Chanhassen and we were not aware of what was happening . We learned about this today. I have a question regarding the church growth of Eckankar . I understand that their membership is currently 400 and they are building a sanctuary that should house about 800 and that indicates to me that they do anticipate church growth. What will they do when they reach capacity? Do they plan to expand at that point? They certainly have the acreage to do this . What are their purposes if they meet their capacity? Conrad: Mr. Hoffman, do you want to respond to that? I Robert Hoffman : Mr . Weaver is correct . There is approximately 400 members of the Eckankar church. However , that doesn' t include their families so it' s being designed initially to accommodate the 400 members and some particular growth. As I indicated , there are 290 some centers around the world . There ' s already a center in the city of Minneapolis and the current plans are for no expansion of this particular facility at this particular time. Gordy Nagel : My name is Gordy Nagel . I did not come with a planned I speech so if I stumble a little, you have to bear with me. I would like you to read the, of the 12 requirements , requirements 1, 2, 6 and 11 . Could someone read them out loud please? I Conrad : I can . One is , will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, comfort, convenience or general welfare of the II II March Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 13 II - II neighborhood or the City. Two , will be consistent with the objectives of the City Comprehensive Plan and this Chapter. Six , will not create I excessive requirements for public facilities and services and will not be detrimental to the economic welfare of the community. Eleven, will not depreciate surrounding property values . IIGordy Nagel : I contest all four of those . Madeline Hickey: Mr . Chairman and Commission. My name is Madeline I Hickey. I live at 6990 Utica Lane and I am also adjacent to the property to the north . My big opposition is number 1. My second is it will hurt my property value. Number three, Lake Ann, we' re so worried about our I children . We' re so worried about the expansion and I think our City should buy that land back. It ' s perfect. Right next to the park and we' re going to need more space. There was a meeting last night of women baseball players that can' t play baseball here anymore because we don' t Ihave the room at Lake Ann . I don' t think we need another church , particularly Eckankar . I Jim Eastling : My name is Jim Eastling . I live at 7285 Pontiac Circle, just west of the property. I 'm just concerned for our city and the reputation of our city with this church . Right now it ' s known as the home Irof the Dinner Theaters and I think that' s fine. I don ' t want it to be known as the home of Eckankar . Janis Duininck: My name Janis Duininck and I would just like to say that II I ' ve been very proud of Chanhassen. I ' ve look forward to raising my children here . If Eckankar comes in , I will remove my family from this community because I can not see, if they have a church here that they I won' t be moving here also and I will not have my children going to school with people that believe what they believe. Tim Vadnais : My name is Tim Vadnais and I live at 8110 81st Street in I Victoria , just down the road. I 'm a father of 4 months and I recently moved to the area . I viewed this area as a very family setting . A very good place to raise a family so I feel that ' s endangered with this Iparticular proposal . I 'd like to have you repeat the first , I know it' s been repeated before, we' re not all familiar with city ordinances . If you could repeat the stipulation and slowly, one word at a time . I 'd like to Idiscuss maybe some of those intangible words . Conrad : Do you have it yourself? If you want to review the words , go ahead. ITim Vadnais : I ' d just like to take a look at some of those intangibles . Comfort . What measure has been done to insure that our comfort is not I impinged upon. I 'd like to also discuss the study, the devaluement study and if I could address the person who worked on that study. r t Conrad : Mr . Hoffman, who rendered the opinion of valuation? Is that Iperson here? Robert Hoffman: Yes . That ' s Mr . Al Learness . IN I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 14 T Tim Vadnais : Sir , could you tell us what went into that study and maybe a - little background? ' Alan Learness : My name is Alan Learness . I 'm a real estate appraiser with the real estate appraisal and consulting firm of Robert Boblett Associates based in Minneapolis . I live in the city of Minneapolis and I ' ve been a real estate appraiser here in the Twin Cities for about 12 or 13 years . Conrad : I think the gentleman' s interested in how you came. . . Tim Vadnais: I 'm interested in the work and background. Can you tell us a little bit about the study. We' re all concerned about our property values here. We'd like to know what facts were set forth to substantiate the statement that there would be no devaluement to our property. Alan Learness: Yes, I will summarize what I did as part of my study to come to the conclusion that I could find no evidence that the proposal before the City tonight would negatively affect property values adjacent or nearby. First thing I did was reviewed a book which Mr . Hoffman eluded to to describe what the Eckankar program was . I was unfamiliar with it . A number of other things I did were to review the site plans that you saw as well as some others for general appeal or physical characteristics . I looked at the present Eckankar location at 3001 Louisiana in New Hope and analyzed if I could determine any effects on adjacent properties value by that location at that site . I looked at the location in Minneapolis , I think it ' s 2526 25th Street East in Minneapolis . It' s a church assembly reading room. It' s adjacent to some residential property. Adjacent to some industrial property and I analyzed any effects that were discernable from that location and any apparent affects on adjacent properties . I looked at several other churches in Chanhassen to see if I could see any negatives effects that were specific to churches in Chanhassen . I analyzed the Supreme Court decision on a church related use at 4551 East Lake Harriet Parkway. Again , a church use , communal church use in a residential location to see if there were any discernable negative affects on property value for that church and basically concluded that I was , I also drove the general areas of neighborhoods close by to the proposed church location to see what type of use was there and analyze how that might be affected by the proposed use and ended up concluding that I could not discern that there was any negative affect on the properties adjacent or nearby by the proposal . It seemed to meet prudent man tests that market definition implies and I concluded that I was unable to discern any differences . ' Tim Vadnais : Did you do any market assessment as far as incoming potential homebuyers? Would they be deferred from buying in Chanhassen if , there was a church there? And my question i.s , I 'm unfamiliar with the facility in New Hope. Is that located in an industrial area or a residential area? Alan Learness : Specifically the 3001 Louisiana facility is located on the west side of Louisiana Avenue in an industrial park area . Immediately AM II II Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 15 IIacross Louisiana Avenue to the east are a series of single family residential homes so it' s in an industrial area but adjacent to a I residential area of single family homes . Regarding your market assessment, I did not study specifically what percent of people might or might not be against or in favor of . The City of Chanhassen appears to be II growing and growing rapidly. We recently completed a study in our office addressing some issues that affect residential property values in a different area of the metro area and we looked at , or I applied those same kinds of principles to what issues affect value from a typical buyer ' s I perspective. I can' t tell you that one buyer or two buyers would or wouldn ' t be affected . I can tell you that I don ' t believe that there' s an impact of degree that' s going to be measureable on the affected properties I adjacent or nearby to this proposed church. It ' s just not that much of a market affect that they can be determined at this time. Tim Vadnais : As you can all see from the first restriction , there ' s a lot I of intangibles there and I believe in this situation here, I believe that those intangibles that obviously everything is to Code but there are some real deep intangibles I feel should be weighed heavily and more heavily I than building specs . I feel there ' s a lot of questions that the planning council itself should ask about the potential builder . It ' s obvious everything that I ' ve seen in the paper and what was quoted by that gentleman there, that there ' s been only one reference that ' s been I - consulted as to who i's Eckankar and what are they all about . There ' s a number of questions . Why did they leave Menlo Park, California? Why was there a need to move their headquarters? There are a lot of questions I I believe that the council should take it upon their responsibility to find answers for . I believe that you ' ve been appointed by the Council , a Council elected by it ' s members to represent the best interest of this IIarea and I ask that you consider that interest . Matt Hoffman: My name is Matt Hoffman. My wife and I just purchased a house and moved in this weekend at 931 Saddlebrook Trail . I guess when we I first looked at buying a house in Chanhassen, we didn' t know anything about Eckankar , that it existed even . Now half way through our building process we have found out about Eckankar . What it means . What it stands I for . I guess I 'm concerned , being directly in view of where the church is going to be, out my sliding glass window. How many people does Eckankar have that live in Chanhassen? Does anybody have a figure? IIRobert Hoffman: Mr. Hoffman, I don ' t have that number , I 'm sorry. Matt Hoffman : Does anybody? IPublic: Zero. IIMatt Hoffman : Is that really serving the needs of this community? Bob Cunningham: Councilmembers , my name is Bob Cunningham. I live at 6840 Chaparral Lane . We moved to Chanhassen about 2 1/2 years ago from Ithe east side of St. Paul . On the east side of St. Paul , I have 3 boys . I could not let them leave the block without somebody going with them. That ' s the type of neighborhood I was in. I moved to Chanhassen. I have INI Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 16 2 playgrounds within 6 blocks . I have Lake Ann where the kids can o 11 g swimming, playing , etc . and I do not want to have to put a chain around their necks again . If these statements are true, I think somebody better do some investigating. Barb Klick : My name is Barb Klick. I live at 7116 Utica Lane and my property is adjacent to the proposed land here. First I would like to compliment the gentlemen . I think that your presentation and the building is beautiful and I guess I tried to come here tonight with an open mind to learn some more about Eckankar and I guess I 'm very disappointed and it just kind of increases my suspicions that none of the spiritual leaders were here tonight. They obviously must have known there had been some questions and some concerns in the community and it just makes my fears a little more deep rooted and deep seeded and I guess I 'm disappointed at how professionally staffed they are with these gentlemen and really are lacking in the other area. Thank you. Jay Howard : My name is Jay Howard . I 'm a Christian researcher in the area of cults and the occult . I have spoken extensively in the State of Minnesota and around the country and I was asked to come here this evening to look at the proceedings and from what I see , this is not really a question of whether the land is appropriate or the buildings are appropriate, this is a question of whether the teachings and the beliefs of the Eckankar movement are really consistent with the Judeo Christian beliefs and ethics of your community. Just briefly I thought it would be important to let the Council know briefly what Eckankar is all about but I don ' t know how much has come out in the papers but I just wanted to take a couple of quick quotes from some of the writings of Paul Twitchell , the 971st living Eck Master . The founder of Eckankar from what I can see in my research . I began researching Eckankar in 1986 because of a request that I had from the Eden Prairie/Chanhassen community. According to the writings of Eckankar , Eckankar is 6 million years old . The teachings are 6 million years old and it' s the fountainhead of all truth and philosophies . Therefore, all philosophies and religions are subordinate to the teachings of Eckankar or they' ve actually sprung out of Eckankar . Paul Twitchell has said this himself in his own writings , "Eckankar is the only way to reach the world of the Sugmad . " The Sugmad , according to the writings of Eckankar , Paul Twitchell , is a being that is their idea of God. It is both good and evil . The lower half of the Sugmad is called Calnuronion . Calnuronion is a capricious entity that will , it ' s pretty much the creater of evil the universe and this is what Paul Twitchell has stated about Judeo-Christian beliefs or the teachings of the Judeo- Christian beliefs concerning Calnuronion. Furthermore, the Cal is the Jehovah of the Jewish faith and the father of the Christian teachings . Therefore, what they' re saying is that the Calnuronion entity, the lower part of the Sugmad is actually the teachings that Christianity and Judism sprang forth out of the beliefs or the concepts of this evil force . They' ve also said that , concerning this thing called the Ancient Signs of Soul Travel which is at the heart of Eckankar . I don' t know how much i, people have been told about this but they believe that by having out of body experiences , they will reach the supreme God, the Sugmad that much quicker . They have stated , or Paul Twitchell has stated this in his writings when he says , "soul travel is the secret path to the Sugmad , the I II March Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 17 IIsupreme being we know as God . " Also , it should be noted that soul travel is just another name for what is called, in the world of the occult , if 1 you were to look at a dictionary on the occult , the phrase is astral projection or astral travel so that' s why when a couple people have mentioned that Eckankar has been delving into the area of the occult which II is not in keeping with the Judeo-Christian teachings of this community, that is what they mean because this teaching of the soul travel is really an occulti.c belief and it is contrary to all the writings and teachings of, not only Christianity but the Jewish faith . And that ' s just a real 1 brief overview of what some of the key teachings of the group Eckankar are. Thank you. IConrad : Before you leave, what ' s your address? Jay Howard : I 'm sorry, it' s 8304 Zane, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota . 1 Conrad : You ' ve done some research . You ' ve obviously looked in textbooks . Have you done research as to where Eckankar has been and their impact on surrounding neighborhoods and what they try to do to neighborhing 1 communities? Jay Howard : Yes . I ' ve been following this for the last 3 years and I II I have to be honest with you. Menlo Park, California was contacted . The police department was contacted and they were told that , and this is a paraphrase, the police officer was quoted as saying , if you have to have a group, occult in your backyard , Eckankar would be the one because they II have been known to be very benign. They have not had a history of child stealing and satanic rituals . The kinds of things that the community is concerned with but yet the overall emphasize of their teachings comes I right out of Eastern mysticism and the occult. I 'm not here to say that they have a pattern or history of hurting communities in that sense of child stealing and some of these things but they have been known to, their Iteachings are obviously contrary to the teachings of this community. Leneda Rahe: I 'd like to ask a question again. My name is Leneda Rahe . As far as the assessment of the property values , can that be re-evaluated 1 by this gentleman that we met earlier? When can we expect that re-evaluation? I Conrad : I think that ' s a decision the City could make. Whether wanted that particular gentleman or somebody else to do it to ease your concerns . That ' s a possibility. 1 Leneda Rahe : So by the end of this meeting this evening , could we at least be given a yes for sure this will be done and be allowed to know who will be doing it and what exactly they' ll be looking at? IConrad: That' s certainly an option and I think in our motion, somebody F may want to do that . II- Leneda Rahe: Okay, thank you . I ME Planning Commission Meeting March 1 , 1989 - Page 13 Carol Vadnais : My name is Carol Vadnais and I live at 8110 81st Street in Victoria. I first became familiar with Eckankar apprxoimately 3, well 4 or 5 years ago when a friend of mine was asking me to pray about her brother who is involved in Eckankar and he was really becoming distant from their family and it was becoming a real problem within their family. From the article that I read that was in the Sailor , the Chanhassen Sailor , it had mentioned that there are really no threats to family life and no disruptions are usually caused by people that come into this group. It was a very, very deep concern and I talked to her just last night and she said that this brother is still involved in it and there are still II deep family hurts because of it and the family is very distant from him so from someone who knows of it first hand in a family, it can cause very deep family problems. i Dave Rahe : Hello . My name is Dave Rahe . I live at 1021 Carver Beach Road. I think we are all intelligent people here. We can look at common sense and also the writings of Eckankar , their leader Paul Twitchell . He ' s II indicated and said that they are a cult. They are a cult religion. People do not view cults in a very positive fashion. If you look at common sense, it will indicate that our property value will suffer. Our children , our community will suffer . The concerns of these people that have spoken and that are here tonight speak loud and clear that there is a legitimate concern. What we' ve seen from Eckankar , they' ve obviously paid a good deal of money to initiate what they have. Purchased the land . Hired some people to construct the initial phases of building the church. They' ve spent a good deal of money. They obviously have a good deal of money. Also the fact that their religious leaders have not decided to , come to this meeting to be asked questions that are pertinent to the issues that, we feel we have concerns as citizens of Chanhassen that they would be able to answer . Common sense tells us that there are some issues here that need to be looked at very carefully and myself as a concerned Chanhassen citizen think that these are very grave concerns . As a father of 4 children, I am very concerned that the effect that they will have on our community. They may not go door to door , but their teachings may very well affect all of us and someday I may be standing here looking across at some Eckankar members sitting on the City Council and it will gravely change our community from what it is now as a Christian community that is concerned about families and I don ' t want to see it happen . I just beg you to please look at this very considerately. Thank you . Susan Albee : Mr . Chairman and members of the Commission . Susan Albee. ' 6871 Nez Perce Drive. I am not here to basically look at the religious beliefs of anyone in the community. My concern is the piece of property at hand and how to utilize it best. I 'm looking at, of course, a very valuable piece of property. One that I don' t want to see taken off the tax rolls. I think that the land use could certainly be more appropriate and from what I see , the City would have a need or different needs for the property. I can see a possibility of putting a moratorium on churches in a residential district until such a time that this is resolved and I think `` the zoning ordinance should be looked at again and see if it can not be amended to a more appropriate use for the community. Thank you. I II II ' Planning Commission Meeting March 1 , 1989 - Page 19 IKathy Wendland : My name is Kathy Wendland and as a resident of Chanhassen I ' ve learned a great deal this evening . I didn ' t realize that the 12 I criteria that were read and have partly been discussed , were taken into account and in a way it ' s comforting but I have a question for you. How, as a committee , do you evaluate the qualities that are mentioned , I especially number 1 that we' ve heard read several times? That' s my question for you . Conrad : There are no numeric guidelines . We have to assess it IIindividually and as will the City Council have to do that. Kathy Wendland : So there are no say polls or canvasing of the community II taken? Conrad : No , there ' s not such a thing as a vote or a survey unless somebody feels that it ' s essential that that happen. But on new II applications in Chanhassen on development , that would be highly unique. In fact it never has been done. I Kathy Wendland : Yet some of them are so specific they automatically fit into certain criteria . I noticed , as the gentleman brought up, these are kind of subjective. Obviously they' re important . They' re placed number 1 IFand they' re subjective but none of the community seems to have input on this . It is subjective on your part and the part of the Council as well . Is that basically what you' re telling us? I Conrad : I think on these terms , yes , it ' s hard to put absolute values on some of these. You ' re right . I Kathy Wendland : It isn ' t hard necessarily. What I 'm suggesting is perhaps as a Planning Commission you need more community input, especially concerning the number 1. IIMitch Weaver : Mr . Chairman and members of the committee , my name is Mitch Weaver. As my wife spoke earlier, we' re considering moving into this community and after what I ' ve heard tonight , it really concerns me and for 1 the safety of my family. There was a handout that was given out tonight and I would like to read a phrase of this handout . It says , once any ECK member, and this comes from Twi.tchell ' s writings of Satsang Discourses, 1 once any ECKist becomes a member of the Second Institution and beyond , he can not ever resign from ECK. If such persons ever attempt to resign or want to leave ECK for any purpose , they shall find it not easy to do . They will run into terrible problems . Now I would like you to very II carefully consider whether this kind of commitment in a church is beneficial or detrimental to this community. Thank you . I Emmi.ngs : You said you were interested in moving into the community and now you' re not sure and that you ' re afraid for your family. I ' ve heard a lot of comments like that and I just wonder , what specific fear you would have that would prevent you from moving into our community if this church II were here . II 1 Planning Commission Meeting II March 1, 1989 - Page 20 r Mitch Weaver : I think the fear is that this church is an occult and it is II a cult and like the gentleman spoke earlier , this is a deviation from the norm of our society. The members of this community who have children II going to schools here, I don' t feel want their children associating with people who are an occult and being influenced by people in a cult. I did make a proposal on a house last night and it concerns me deeply in light of the new information that we' ve received tonight . 1 Emmi.ngs: So you think your children would be at risk in terms of their contacts with members of this organization , is that it? I Mitch Weaver : Yes I do. Janet Weaver : I 'm Janet Weaver . Regarding what Jay had spoken earlier I about, the expert on cults and occult. For the record, it should be known that astral projection , the out of body experience does not limit the person experiencing this to material and physical realms but they can II proceed beyond your homes . They can go into your homes . They can go into other people' s property and this does definitely concern me and item number 1 that it would be a violation of my comfort and my safety if II someone were astral projecting into my property. Ross Cameron : Frankly I 'm surprised that I have to get up here and say II this. I have heard a lot of concerns tonight, I haven ' t heard the concern of freedom of speech one . I haven ' t heard the concern of freedom of religion. Public: Name and address? ' Ross Cameron : 413 Santa Fe Trail . I ' ve been here all my life in the II area. Ross Cameron. 413 Santa Fe Trail and I haven' t heard anybody say anything about being concerned about having people ' s beliefs tromped on etc. and I was wondering if anybody would like to feel if there' s any sort of, what should I say, can anybody reflect on that a bit and hear that . II Leneda Rahe: My name is Leneda Rahe and I have lots of reflections on the freedom on religion in this country. I deem it as a very positive part of II our existence here in America and it' s one of the reasons that makes us an opportunist country and it' s a beautiful freedom. However , I think that religion needs to be redefined in this country and this is not an issue II for the city planning commission but he asked for my reflections . If you redefine religion in terms of a criminal injustice, I can give you two very specific examples of where the religious freedom in this country was used to harm individuals. The Guyana tragedy started with Jim Jones and II it began subtley by just the one person , Jim Jones who was the god of this head just like the Eckankar religion. They have a god and it ' s a mind controlling . We' re looking at a dishonest thing where people can be harmed okay. I don' t need to say how many died in Guyana . Secondly, II , there' s another example in the Bhagwan Rajneesh in Antelope, Oregon in ',_ 1985 which began with the purchase of property. This was not what our forefathers of this country intended for the religious freedom of people II to mean that they could harm whomever they wanted in their congregation by saying that they had a certain stipulation by which all the religious II i 1 Planning Commission Meeting IIMarch 1, 1989 - Page 21 IImembers of that group had to do . That to me is not religion . II Gloria Cox: Hello. I 'm Gloria Cox. I live at 6990 Shawnee Lane in Chanhassen . My husband and I and family have resided here in Chanhassen for 11 1/2 years. One of the hardest things to see is the family farm leaving the City of Chanhassen . The big industrial areas coming out here. 1 People are moving out here from the cities . Chanhassen was built on farmland and there' s a lot of history. The only thing is with the farmers leaving, I 'm sure they would be very disappointed not to see families and children going on here in Chanhassen and use that property the best way to have it fit and that is for a community center or for all the people in Chanhassen and the surrounding communities to enjoy it . From Waconia all the way around. II Carol Watson : My name is Carol Watson and I live at 7131 Utica Lane. I 'm II adjacent to the property. My big concern at this point is , it was a brief few years ago that they were here . They were going to pay taxes . They were going to have a publishing house. They were going to have some offices and that was what was going to be on that property. At that point II in time, they told us, I believe we were at the Dinner Theater for the meetings , they told us they didn' t have churches . That people met in small groups and centers and stuff and that they didn' t have anything they IIcalled a church and they certainly didn ' t have anything called a r sanctuary. In these brief few years , they now have a church that needs to house 800 people and needs a caretaker on site . It has 290 some parking spaces and if that can happen in the brief years since they owned this IIproperty, I 'm concerned about what can occur in the next few years . Dan Mahady: Good evening. My name is Dan Mahady and I live at 1020 Butte I directly across the street from the entrance to the Eckankar proposed church. I just moved in in October and this is my first home. I ' ve been very excited about moving in the community and so on. I had no idea about who owned that land over there until I saw it in the Villager paper here a 11 few weeks ago. It was my impression that it was probably going to be for residential area and as everybody here is concerned for their families and so on, which I was very happy to be proud of. When I first found this I out , needless to say I was quite shocked and I 'd just like to go on record as saying that I am definitely opposed to the church being located on that property as I think the majority here have spoken here tonight . IRosie Peitz: My name is Rosie Peitz and I ' ve lived here, I 'm a mother of 6 children . We' ve lived in Chanhassen 25 years . We love this city. It' s our home and I just feel that each of you on the commission really should I examine your consciences . This is a moral issue. We do not want Eckankar to come in Chanhassen. We do not need it . We do not want it and I can' t understand why they would even want to be here knowing we don ' t want them II and we never will want them. I have a deep concern for my family and all my friends in the city of Chanhassen . Jan Lash: My name is Jan Lash . I live at 6850 Utica Lane. I briefly Imade notes of the zoning ordinances when Mr . Hanson was reading them and I guess I would go along with other people in questioning 1, 4 , 6 and 11. I you figure that out , that ' s 4 out of the 12 ordinances that people have II i 1 Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 22 grave doubts about . I think that should be a significant thought in your mind and I guess I would agree that if this property is taken off of the tax rolls , which I think it probably already has been , I would rather see it benefit our community and I don ' t feel this church would benefit our community because it has no members . The numbers that were read tonight of having 290 centers in 92 different countries , it' s probably not fair on my part to average this out but that would be roughly 3 centers per country and we already have one in Minneapolis . I guess I don ' t understand why they need another one here . I guess if they can leave their body, I don' t know why they have to have their church out here to start with. They could have it anywhere they want . Pat Albrecht: My name is Pat Albrecht. I live on 6951 Tecumseh Lane. It 11 seems to me things are kind of backwards in that the zoning ordinance seemed to be ruling what the community does rather than the community making the rules for what they want . I don' t think, as she said , I don' t think anyone does want Eckankar . It seems that they backed out last time because they weren ' t wanted and they' re still not wanted . Jean Burke: My name is Jean Burke and I live at 225 West 77th Street. It ' seems that there is some confusion in your minds as to how we ' re concerned about our children but as I 'm driving to beautiful Lake Ann and my children ask what the pyramid in the sky is , I am going to have to build an invisible wall to protect them from what I feel is harmful to them spiritually. This is a moral issue in that my spiritual growth is affected. My emotional growth is harmed. This emotionally upsets me . Physically, I 'm fine . Emotionally, I 'm shattered to think that my community would welcome something that is going to be a barrier for my children . I will have to tell them on the way to Lake Ann that this is a piece of property that we don' t play on. We don' t go near. If we' re invited , we say no . It is evil . It is wrong . This is not a facility I want in my community, especially adjacent to a property that I think is the highlight of this area . The pyramid is not invisible. It is a sign of an organization that is supporting beliefs different from my Judeo-Christian background . I moved here 5 years ago and was thrilled to see the cross on the main street of the old Catholic church in Chanhassen and this is still my background and I am still proud of the cross and not proud of the pyramid. Dawn Opitz : My name is Dawn Opitz. I live at 870 Nez Perce Court in Chanhassen. I guess I 'd also just want to reiterate, I heard this gentleman say several times about the fact that this priest can marry people and for anybody that doesn' t know this , it is very easy to be able to receive the requirements to marry a person . That ' s nothing noble. I think that so far that' s the only service that I ' ve heard offered to us. I just want to say, just so we remember when we leave this room tonight , to not forget what, you know, not the heat of the moment but just not forget , don ' t be deceived by what these people are trying to do . They aren ' t here to serve us . They have no interest in us whatsoever . They' re only selfish . They have nothing to offer us . They' re not here offering us anything right now either . I just want to say, just remember tonight and if they do, if they do get in here, continue to remember what they stand for . I guess just be a greater influence yourself on Chanhassen . i I - Planning Commission Meeting March 1 , 1989 - Page 23 II Mark Johnson : My name is Mark Johnson . I come by myself. Unrepresented - ' by any group or anything else. I live at 504 West 76th Street and the father of 4 young children . I think there ' s been a lot of concern expressed by young families here this evening. I don ' t believe that this group meets the requirements of the ordinance , and I think ordinance II number 1 specifically. With the concern of the young parents , I would like the Planning Commission to consider that with this amount of discontent from young families, we will move . That will have a profound I impact on the public school system in this district . Then maybe the church would like to move into the space that ' s left in the open schools . I Bobby Kiessard : My name is Bobby Kiessard . I live at 7604 South Shore Drive. I have small children. I 'm able to keep them under my wing right now. My concern is , if these people get in , when my children are teenagers and teenagers have enough problems , enough to deal with but if I my kids have to deal with that malarky when they' re teenagers , I 'm moving out as well . It scares me. Dave Rahe : My name is Dave Rahe , 1021 Carver Beach Road . I guess I just had a question that came to mind in regard to the 20 office spaces that are supposedly going to establish this church . They have a membership of about 400 and probably 100 people possibly maybe attending . I guess I Irwould like a little bit more of a definition as to why a church of that size needs 20 offices. My fear is that after they' re in , perhaps a year , perhaps 2 years , they may start suddenly moving in their printing presses . IITheir other manufacturing goods and I guess if this were to come to pass , that they do move in, are we going to monitor them because as a Chanhassen citizen and knowing the background that I know about them, I certainly II don ' t trust them per se for face value . It seems a lot that they need 20 offices. Conrad : A couple comments . Steve, if they did expand , they would have to IIcome back for a conditional use? Hanson : That ' s correct . IIEmmi.ngs : Or if they changed the nature of the use . II Conrad: Or if they changed the nature of the use they'd have to come back in so technically they couldn' t expand unless they came back through the process. Mr. Hoffman, there were 20 offices that the gentleman said were in the building . What are they to be used for or could you clarify that II for us? Robert Hoffman : Mr . Chairman , I said there would be 20 office workers , not 20 offices . I 'm not too sure of the number of offices . I think II there ' s 4 or 5 offices . Those will be both full time and part time . `, Conrad: So I understand that you have no definition as to what these offices will or may be doing? I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 24 Robert Hoffman : I think if you ' re familiar with most churches , they have a staff . The staff varies in size and they' ll be administering the church facilities and the church services that they have in the church. I Dave Rahe: We presently attend a church that has approximately 2, 300 members staffed by approximately less than 10 people. I don' t know how big a staff your church has but it' s a pretty big question in my mind why a church of that size would need 20 offices or rather 20 employees as officers in that size of church. It' s a big question mark and I don' t think that ' s addressed appropriately here , or hasn ' t been answered anyway. II Thank you. Rosi.e Peitz : I talked before and I know I forgot to give you my address . It' s 7607 Kiowa and I 'm not with any group or anything either . I just came on my own and I just happened to think of some thing . Somebody mentioned teenagers before and I remember when they were here before at the Dinner Theater 3 years ago . Someone had asked them if they go soliciting door to door and they said no, they don ' t. What they do is they go to the schools and reach the different schools and colleges and so on. I also have teenagers . I have children ages 27 down to 10 and that really bothers me. I just want to say, couldn ' t we, this is a big load for the Planning Commission to have, to make the decision whether to have the whole city of Chanhassen , what shall I say, anyway. I can ' t think right now but anyway, couldn ' t this be brought to a vote through the City? I feel all the people in Chanhassen need to have a vote on this since it is a big moral issue and does relate to all of us and our children. I guess I would like to see that brought to a vote . I Conrad: Maybe we can ask our City Attorney for comment on a vote issue. Rosi.e Peitz : It ' s not just a few here. It ' s the whole city that will be involved. Dave Grannis : Mr . Chairman and members of the audience . A vote on an issue like this is not legally appropriate. There ' s no provision in the law that would allow the City Council to hold a special election to consider an issue like this, either for or against. The City Council and the Planning Commission hold a public hearing . That ' s where we are right now. The purpose of that hearing is to let people air their views and state their position . Beyond that , the Council could , if they want , or the Planning Commission do some additional surveys informally. Mailings or whatever . That ' s kind of an optional thing with the Planning Commission and the Council . Rosie Peitz : I think the rest of the people of Chanhassen should know exactly what' s going on. I think they have a right to know and a right to vote on it . , Leneda Rahe : I 'd like to ask a question of the Attorney. I know of a specific case with Art Owens and his being sued because of mental anguish that he supposedly caused to many people . Who would be prepared to meet the lawsuits against the City or whomever when the mental anguish starts to begin in this City? Who would be liable for that? II II Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 25 II Dave Grannis : If the City is sued because of an action that they take 1 regarding to a matter relating to their zoning or something similar to that. . . I Leneda Rahe : Going against stipulation number 1, the requirements is our comfort and our health . Dave Grannis : The City has insurance to cover that okay. Their insurance 1 company would defend on behalf of the City. It becomes just like any other civil lawsuit and somebody would have to prove that the City did something in an improper or illegal manner . IIAlan Peterson : My name is Alan Peterson . I live at 6697 Countryside Drive in Eden Prairie. We are a property owner , or plan to be building in Chanhassen . I think you ' ve already put us through mental anguish since we ' ve kept him up an hour and a half past his bedtime and I ' ve been sitting back there just kind of fuming and fuming and fuming and watched some of the members of the Planning Commission watching attentively and I others seem to be sort of bored . The reason I 'm here is my wife was in the back saying are they listening to you or are they listening to us? My hope is that you are listening to the people and that you are listening to IF' the young families and you listen to Mark Johnson who said there are young Families who are considering building or moving in and we will move. I - will sell my lot and I will move to a community that has moral standards to keep things like this out of the area and I hope that you listen to us IIas members of the community and not listen to a battery of lawyers . Craig Thornberg : My name is Craig Thornberg and I live at 10765 Bush Lake II Road Circle in Bloomington. I just have one thing to mention to the board here is that under the First Amendment we have the freedom of speech . That means legally we have a great amount of power in our opinion. The I public opinion being expressed has legal ground and I would ask you to consider public opinion as a very strong legal ground which would have, what would I say, would have much to do with what you would make your decisions on and I 'm hoping that you ' re considering that. Thank you . IIResident from Audience : . . .not a legal issue and when the proposal was first presented, the recommendation was to accept it. Last summer as II I recall , the Senate was undergoing some hearings on a man named Robert . . . His qualifications were i.mpecable. Nobody found fault with that but he was denied a place on the Supreme Court over a moral issue . I really ask you to consider your consciences and the opinions that you ' ve heard Itonight . We' ve tried the best we can to express our feelings. . . II Emmings moved, Erhart seconded to close the public hearing. All voted in favor and the motion carried . The public hearing was closed . IIy Erhart: Is there anybody here representing the Eckankar group who is a member of Eckankar? That ' s a little amazing to me . It really perks my interest in this and I haven ' t heard anything about this group before today. What I 'm trying to assess in my mind is the rights of the property II I. Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 26 owner versus all the standards that we' ve listed several times this evening and trying to judge whether the property owner here in their proposal , how it relates to the standards that we ' re to judge this proposal and to use that in making recommendations to the City Council . I have a number of questions in my mind relating to a number of these standards, and I have quite a list of questions here, that I personally don ' t think can be answered by anybody but a member of this church who ' s an acting leader in the church. Without that person being here, I don' t even know that it' s worth proceeding with any conclusions . I look around and it' s obvious this group has a lot of experience in fighting residents because I ' ve never quite seen an entourage like this . I don' t even think I saw it with Bush' s trip to China. Secondly, since my experience has been on here , we' ve had a couple churches come in with proposals for church buildings and if I was the architect I would wonder if I was getting paid so I really, just from the overall affect , that the consultants have portrayed here tonight and I know what it says intent is but the reaction that I have to it is that we' re getting a snow job. Let me go on, let me deal with some questions that I have on the specific site plan itself and then I ' ll go back and see if we can make any headway. Steve, you had a number of agencies that you requested information from that you had no response . Normally we do get response from the Soil Conservation and Watershed District. Do we have that now or don ' t we have that? Hanson : No . We did not get a response from either of those . Erhart: Normally do we have that when we review? I Hanson : Normally if they have comments they respond , yes . Erhart: Otherwise, if they don' t have and they don ' t respond? So you don' t expect any comments from them? And you ' re satisfied with that? Hanson: That ' s what we normally do with an application. I Erhart : Gary Warren' s recommendation on the location of the 8 inch, I understood from the applicant that he ' s agreed the 8 inch trunk. Has the location been satisfied? Hanson : I believe the specific location , I don ' t know that the exact location has been tied down which normally we would do that with final construction plans . Erhart : Do you feel that that should be one of the items in our list of conditions? There' s a number of things here that are not listed in our conditions that have been recommendations by Gary Warren and I 'm just wondering if we should be including them. I Hanson : All of his should have been included . Erhart: It doesn ' t say 8 inch. Also, on page 4 of Gary' s recommendations ' there ' s the concrete barrier curbing included on the entrance roadway. I don' t see that in there and it hasn' t been answered I don' t believe. I 'm II II Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 27 y not too sure , is he recommending concrete barrier all er 11 the way in from CR 17 into the site? II Hanson : Yes , according to that memo he is . II Erhart: Then I suggest we add that to the conditions. Also, number 8 , the applicant address the nutrient loading impacts to Riley Lake. Has that been answered? Is there a reason why 7 , 3 and 9 aren' t listed? I Hanson: I suspect what happened is when this was typed up, those were left off because they' re all on that separate page. The intent was that all of the conditions of engineering would have been added to that memo . IIErhart: As such then, the applicant hasn' t responded to those four items . Hanson : I believe they did not. IIErhart : Do we normally ask for easements when people apply for conditional use permits or is that normally associated with subdivisions? IIHanson : Normally with a subdivision . Erhart: So in this case you don ' t feel that it' s appropriate to look at trail easements or street easements? There ' s no money given? Hanson: The process that we do that through is with the subdivision . IIErhart : Alright , so anyway I think there ' s a few more things there that probably need to be answered. One of the things that I 'd like to see II during this , the building and site plan , that we add a requirement that no outdoor speaker systems be allowed. I think we've already had trouble in our city. If Jim was here , I think he could tell us about last summer we had one of our local businesses decided to go outdoors with their II activities and from listening to this business , it doesn ' t sound like that' s out of the question so I 'd like to see that as a condition. Did we move the handicapped parking area as requested by the Public Safety? IIHanson: I don ' t know. The plans that I have not had those moved . IIErhart : Are we going to request that? Hanson: I think you can add that if you 'd like. We looked at it as where there are handicapped spaces shown and where the other parking is , the II distance that ' s achieved either way, it ' s kind of a draw. Erhart : Okay, I ' ll leave that one to you . If you feel that it' s a moot IIissue and then I don ' t care one way or the other either . We did add the fire hydrant? I 'm looking at, on the fourth page in your comments from the building inspector and the fire inspector , they were asking for an IIadditional fire hydrant . Has that been added? Hanson: I believe in their presentation they agreed to do the conditions of the Fire Inspector . Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 28 1 Erhart : Okay, and also include the fire alarm system? - Hanson: Yes . , Erhart : Maybe you can tell me, can you describe the New Hope facility to me? I Robert Hoffman : The New Hope facility would compare to an office/tech center that you might have in one of your office parks. It ' s a single story combination office/warehouse type of building . Erhart: What goes on in there? Robert Hoffman : The publication, production , the audio visual production , their computer systems for their worldwide members , their mailing services , their offices , international offices . If you went inside of it , which you' re invited to do, it looks like an office. Erhart : How many people are employed there? Robert Hoffman: Do you remember Peter? About 40? About 40 to 50. Erhart : They own the facility? , Robert Hoffman: Yes . Erhart : It' s in an industrial park? Robert Hoffman: It ' s in an industrial park across the street from residential . Immediately facing the residential . Erhart : Is it unique , like a church or is it . . . Robert Hoffman: You mean the building? Erhart : Yes . Or does it fit in with the asethetics and the setting of other industrial park buildings? Robert Hoffman : Yes , it would be similar , I have to describe it as an office/tech type of building . Erhart : So if Eckankar decided to move out of that building , it would be fairly easy to sell to another industrial or office user in the park? I Robert Hoffman : I would assume so if there ' s a market there. It' s not an unusual office/tech building. Erhart : So it would be a likely place to go if you were looking for a temporary international headquarters? Robert Hoffman : That ' s your conclusion I guess . I UR r Planning Commission Meeting ' March 1, 1989 - Page 29 r- Erhart : I guess I 'm concerned about the services provided to the organization. I guess one of the questions that I wanted to ask some of the members was the history of the organization and also I wanted to ask, has anybody Steve, on the staff , done some research as to what experiences other cities have had with Eckankar facilities? Hanson: No. We treat them as any other church that comes in. Robert Hoffman : If I may respond to that . Your Public Safety Department ' in 1985, according to a memo of the City made, as they called it, an investigation of Eckankar ' s activities in Menlo Park, California which was then their headquarters and that' s a memorandum of a couple pages which I 'm sure you have in your record . The conclusion of that investigation by your Public Safety Department was as follows, governmental agencies and private firms in the vicinity of Eckankar ' s existing facility highly recommend Eckankar as a supportive member of the community and they had ' been there for about 12 years . I believe there is a quote, I think by the City Manager of New Hope in the Sailor , which I just read today, that basically said they' ve been there for 3 years and we don ' t even know they' re there. There' re a good neighbor . Now we have a series of letters from different cities where Eckankar has had seminars that are highly complimentary but I don ' t know if you ' re interested in those or not . Hartford , Conneticut and Idaho and a number of others . Erhart : There is a facility in St. Paul as well? ' Robert Hoffman : Yes . It was in St . Paul . Now it ' s in Minneapolis . It ' s been here since 1973 and you ' re welcome to talk to anyone in the neighborhood . Erhart : And that ' s in addition to the facilities in New Hope? Robert Hoffman: Yes , that ' s correct . ' Erhart : What goes on in the facilities in Minneapolis? Robert Hoffman: It' s their spiritual center again. They hold meetings and readings and study groups . Erhart: And where is that located? Robert Hoffman : The address is , I guess I don ' t have that . Do you have that? Oh, it is 2526 25th Street S . E. , Minneapolis . Erhart : Is that a residential neighborhood? IRobert. Hoffman: I 'm going to say yes . Erhart : That ' s by the University of Minnesota isn ' t it? Robert Hoffman: Yes. Prior to that they were at 8807 S. E. 4th Street . They were there from 1975 to 1986 and they' ve been in this present location since 1986 . r Planning Commission Meeting II March 1, 1989 - Page 30 II Erhart : Where do people go if you wanted to become a student of Eckankar and I assume they have some kind of school , where do you go? I Robert Hoffman: It' s a study group. Erhart : These are the kinds of questions that I just can ' t get answered . I I guess what I 'd like to see is someone from Eckankar . I 'm trying to understand . The question in my mind is , what is the long term intent of this facility here? I Robert Hoffman : Of the church? Erhart: Of the church, yes. I Robert Hoffman : To use it as a church . IIErhart: Yes, I understand that but in my short experience on the Planning Commission , I ' ve seen people come in with proposals and they get approvals and as soon as they get the approval and then they come in a little bit II later when they get the first block laid and then geez whiz, now I have a little better idea and now we want to do something different and I think one of the things we owe to the Council is to pass onto them some research as to long term intent and what are the possibilities. A proposal from a structure standpoint looks real neat today but I assume that in the structural there' s some, you' ve taken into consideration abilities to add onto this building . I Robert Hoffman : Not as it ' s designed . Erhart: Is there anyway to add onto the building? I Robert Hoffman : Mr . Krank is here . I believe the answer is no . I supposed you can add onto any building but architecturally it' s not II designed to be added onto . Is that correct Mr . Krank? Ron Krank: Anything is possible but the design has not been programmed to II add onto . Erhart : Okay. I guess without understanding the pattern and the objectives of the church specifically, it' s hard for me to determine what II the intent is of this 174 acres . I guess that ' s the issue and these are some of the more benign questions that I have relating to what is Eckankar . I Robert Hoffman : I ' ll answer your last one . First of all , the church has no intention of expanding the church facilities as such and have not been II designed for expansion. Secondly, if there would be any additions to the property, I think your City Planner and your City Attorney would advise -_ you that it would have to be in accordance with your ordinances . So presumably the balance of the property could be developed for single II family housing under your ordinances without a conditional use and without a rezoning . If any other use was proposed that was inconsistent with your 11 r Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 31 IIordinance , you 'd have to change your ordinance . I will Eckankar will only develop the y tell you that y property in accordance with your II ordinances . Whatever they are today or next year or 20 years from now or 40 years from now. II Erhart : I think from the responses or the comments by Carol Watson , and again I don ' t expect you to answer questions on where and what the objectives of this church is . In fact , I discount your answers substantially but I just might want to point out that Carol Watson 1 indicated her experience on the Council in 1985 and what the goals were then is not in line with what the goals that you stated for the church. Again, it concerns me a little bit what ' s happening to this property and I 1 guess I 'd like to have, what I 'm getting to when I get down to the end half an hour from now I suppose , I 'd like to have the opportunity to have some church members in this room at a future Planning Commission meeting where we could get some more information on the background of the Iorganization. Robert Hoffman : If you ' d want to better define background , if you ' re I talking about the philosophy of religion, which we don ' t think is a proper subject by the way for this discussion. If that ' s your idea of background , then they will not be here . II Erhart : The question I have is . . . Robert Hoffman : By the way, I 'm a Catholic and have been as a birth IICatholic. I ' ve got enough gray hair so I remember some of the comments being made , also being made against Catholics not too many years ago . IIErhart: But I think the citizens of this community is owed an answer from an official representative of the church as to i.f, have they ever recruited members door to door? IIRobert Hoffman : The answer is no . I can tell you that. Erhart: I don ' t think that you ' re an official representative of this II organization and I ' ve got a whole series of those questions relating to the issue of safety and health. I 'm all for land owners rights but I also believe that the citizens here deserve some answers from the leadership of IIthis church and not paid consultants . And it isn ' t worth getting into an argument about , that ' s just my opinion and getting into it further will probably just waste a lot of time. II Robert Hoffman: If you wish to ask questions that relate to the conditional use that the church members can answer , we' ll be pleased to have them answer them. II Erhart : The conditional use , I can spell out . It ' s been read three times f here tonight that one of the things we have to evaluate is , is it detrimental to the health , safety and comfort? You have someone ' s opinion IIthat says it' s not. Well , I ' ll get into that but let ' s take one thing at a time. In the first place , I guess I 'd like to know what it takes to get to be verified as a church. I I. r Planning Commission Meeting March 1 , 1989 - Page 32 Robert Hoffman : Your ordinances spell it out very clearly. Erhart: I think our ordinances refer to sanctioned as a church in the State of Minnesota . It also says that they come, you guys handed out so much paper here it will take me half an hour just to find the sheet I want to find here . Steve , help me. Here it is . It says a church means a building or edifice consecrated to religious worship where people join together in some form of public worship under the direction of a person who is authorized under the laws of Minnesota. I 'm not convinced that this organization worships . Again , I don ' t want to get into religion but the ordinance says it worships and I guess I 'd like to understand how the State of Minnesota goes through the process of determining if this is a church. I have some questions about that and without having a member representative here , I don' t think it ' s worth getting into the kind of questions. Plus, I guess I 'd like to hear what the process was for that to determine if this is a church . So I 'm not convinced that it ' s a church. It certainly hasn ' t come in here like any church that I ' ve ever seen. Most of the money of the churches that I ' ve been involved with seem to go to other things than building and consultants . No offense taken . No offense meant . That ' s my number one question. I 'm not sure it' s a church. I 'm not saying I can' t be convinced that it ' s a church. I think with some further research . Secondly, I guess I came in here reading the material and I wasn ' t, either I missed it or it wasn ' t provided, I did not see the material from the research of 1985 in my packet . Maybe I missed that on the memo part thing but I was not convinced that the health and safety and comfort issue was worthwhile. I didn ' t think there was an issue there but after listening to the public here, even I who is a property owner here , probably respects property rights as much as anybody in Chanhassen, has not been swayed in my mind, I 'm not convinced that there isn ' t a concern to health, safety and comfort. I can empathize with people living in the neighborhood with on a daily basis thinking about the facilities there and what the objective of the facility is . We' re over , I think keeping in mind that our school is right across the street from this facility is a second issue . So I think I 'm a little weak on that one but I 'm not convinced without some more research that there' s not an issue of health and safety here. Going back to number 1, I guess my conclucion and recommendation is that I guess I ' d like to see the City contact the Attorney General ' s office because I think it ' s a little bit out of our experience and to see whether there is any history or get a determination of what their opinion is regarding Eckankar being a church. I don ' t know when that determination was made or on what basis it was made . In reviewing this again, I guess I 'd like to have that comment , or their response to that Steve if anybody else thinks that ' s appropriate . Third , my bigger concern is that I think this organization with the proposed facilities , one, not paying taxes and secondly, is that it has the potential of requiring excess city services which is one of the standards we weigh this proposal and I think it sounds from a couple of examples given by representatives of the group, that in other locations it hasn ' t required excess services , I guess I ' d like to see our own investigation to determine if excess city services had to be provided due to things, I can imagine potential for disturbances due to students . If the real intent is that students use this is a training facility or if parents get upset 111 I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 33 IIbecause members of their family start attending or whatever . I guess I 'm not so much against what you ' re saying but I guess I 'd like to hear it , II I ' d like to get some independent study of what other communities have experienced in this matter because here' s a facility that' s not going to pay any taxes and we certainly should be providing excess services . II Fourth , if the thing is as quiet as they say they are, I suppose there' s the potential that property values will not devaluate . On the other hand , when I come into this meeting and I see television cameras from 3 studios , I question whether this group, with the purposes that it has , can be quiet I and I believe that negative attention will mean negative property evaluations . I think the potential exists with the media to turn, seriously a comment was used here tonight that was one that I came to this I afternoon . If there was a lot of negative publicity, we could be converted from the City of the Dinner Theater to the City of Eckankar and I know we used the word cults , since they seem to claim it as part of their creed and if that happens , there' s no question that property values II will devaluate . A number of people have stated that here tonight and the question, I guess the thing that really sets in my mind is Mr. Leirness , to draw your conclusions by going and looking at the property without II doing a study of what people had to say in the surrounding property, and it ' s in an industrial site , not a residential . It ' s in a major city as opposed to a city with the population of 8 , 000. I think there' s a lot of factors there that were overlooked . My recommendation is that we get our IIown appraiser and have them come in with a professional appraisal paid by the City of Chanhassen and see what his assessment would be on this matter. Lastly, number 5, I tend to view, given what I ' ve seen here and IInot what was said but what I ' ve seen is that the business , or the applicant, if not actually a business, operates more like a business than a church . I believe, since I operate a business , businesses need to grow. II Staff more people. Bring in more customers and so forth and I think if we go into this with Eckankar , I think we ought to have open eyes at least to know whether it' s a business , a church, if it ' s a pseudo-business church. A clear understanding of what it is we' re dealing with here because I I think if it was a church serving this area, I don' t know why it picked here so I still think it ' s a business but I ' ll be open and try to get more information on this. I heard some things discussed here, I guess what I 'd I like to see , this is the second time the City and staff and other commission members and citizens have come up on here on this idea, I 'd like to see the City consider buying this property. I think we need space IIfor future schools . We' re talking about putting a community center in the middle of our playground . That tells me we need some space here that people can use. We had a meeting Monday night where it was stated we don ' t have enough park space . We have to throw out some softball players that have been here for years and lastly, I think out of 174 acres , my concern is that as an entity, they can continue sitting on the whole space or using it for classified religious reasons which means there wouldn' t be II any taxes paid on it at all . My feeling is , even if we had to pay 5 million dollars , somehow we are creative enough with our downtown to get this stuff to pay back. If you look at this property and buy it at some kind of money that would be in line with the valuation or the proponents IIvaluation and try to come up with a way that the tax money would pay it back and I think we ought to take the time to look at that. So my recommendation is , I guess what I 'm precluding is that my recommendation I ma r Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 34 is , I 'd like to see this thing tabled until we can 9 get some representatives of the church in here or members and to look at some other options . To get an appraiser to look at the valuation situation and get some more of these questions answered in my mind. Emmings : I 'm going to start at the bottom and then work my way to the top here. As a bottom line, I think that this proposal should be approved. Now, I ' ll go back and obviously I 'm not going to set off the applause meter . It ' s fairly easy to see what you have to say to do it but in that regard , I 'd like to say that the one gentleman who got up and spoke about Constitutional rights and First Amendment rights and rights of association and freedom of religion had a lot of guts because he knew the crowd and we've got to respect him for that. I also respect the concerns of the other people that were raised here. I have no doubt in my mind that everybody' s expressing genuine concerns . Genuine fears of something that is real poorly known . I think it is disappointing that they won' t come and talk to us about their religion since it 's of interest to so many people that live here but I don ' t think they have any requirement to do that. If they don' t want to, that ' s their choice. I noticed in the morning paper , someone made the comment that this proposal is going to tear our community apart and I think that rather overstates the case . Maybe it ' s just going to tear the Planning Commission apart since I have to sit next to Tim but , anyway, in a way the Planning Commission operates , we don ' t really make any decisions so if the people go with me, you can feel comfortable about that. We make recommendations to the City Council and they lots of times look at us like we ' re crazy and go the opposite direction and that ' s the way the system is supposed to work and that ' s Eine. But someone did get up and make a comment that I 'd like to address as kind of a side issue first of all . They said it seems like the zoning ordinance is ruling the community rather than the community ruling the ordinance , or setting the rules and I don' t think you ' ve got that right . Ladd ' s been here longer than anybody, he ' s older than any of us , and I ' ve been here second longest and we' ve been through the Comprehensive Plan a couple of times and very frankly, the zoning ordinance implements the Comprehensive Plan and then we apply the zoning ordinance. Right now we' re in a position where we have to apply that zoning ordinance to the specific proposal that' s in front of us and if we do that in a very honest way, there 's no way we can do anything but approve this . Not a lot of people have said this is a moral issue but the fact is that what we' re charged to do, it' s strictly an application of the Zoning ordinance to the application in front of us . Now you may not like that and you ' re shaking your head no out there but that is what we ' re charged to do and that ' s what I think we have to do . Now, when we establish a comprehensive plan , we hold public hearings all the way through to decide where the future, what is the future of this city and I can tell you that I ' ve sat here through many meetings where there was not one person from the public in those chairs out there to give us feedback as to where the public wants to see the city go. All of those meetings are advertised in the paper and you all have an opportunity to be here and if you have any complaints about the comprehensive plan or the zoning ordinance in terms of not being responsive to where the people of the city think the city should be going in you have no one to blame but yourselves . We really want people to come and give us feedback but the feedback of the nature that you ' re giving us ma II Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 35 ' now is too late because there are things in place that have to be implemented . I didn ' t make comments when you spoke and I appreciate the II chance to heard . Now it ' s my turn . As to specifics , I really disagree with Tim that it should be tabled. I think it should be moved up to the City Council . I think that we should take , I know that the view that I 'm taking of what our job is is a narrow view but I think it should be moved up to the City Council because they' re the people who are responsive to the public directly because you directly elect those people and all of the things that you ' ve said will be presented to them verbatim. There will be II a verbatim transcript of this and they' ll have all of that in front of them. I too, Mr. Hoffman eluded to the fact, I grew up in a town that was a small town that was half Catholic and half Protestant and there was two I of everything and everybody knew who everybody else was and I thought it stunk. I really hated it. I hope that we don ' t evaluate families when they move in to our city as to what their beliefs are before we let them buy a house . I hope we don' t evaluate churches as to what their beliefs 11 are before we let them build a church. I don ' t think we want to build a wall around Chanhassen . I think we' re stronger than that. I hope we ' re not that weak. There are two sides to this thing. One is , what do we do II with the application in front of us . The other side is all the emotional stuff. All the religious stuff. All the moral stuff . At this level , I would advocate that we deal strictly with the job that we ' ve been charged IFto do by the City Council and let them deal with the rest of it. For that reason , I think it' s a rather simple and straight forward thing . I don ' t think there ' s that much, substantially everything we heard tonight is irrelevant to that view. As far as the tax thing goes , we' re worried I about this thing. I think it would be a wonderful addition to the Lake Ann Park and I wish that would happen . Again , we have to address the proposal in front of us . If the City wants to buy it, they'd better start I negotiating . Contact the City Council members . Contact the Mayor and tell them that you think that' s what they should do and see if they' ll start negotiating with these people if they' re interested in selling it. II That' s the only way that can be accomplished. As far as the tax goes , I would imagine that the building of the church has nothing to do with this . It ' s already owned by a tax exempt organization and therefore is off the tax rolls anyway. Is that right? II Hanson: Yes . IIEmmings : So the fact that of the building of the church isn' t going to change that. That already exists . We' ve got a whole bunch of things like height of the building and other things where right now their set backs are just enormous and I take it that if they ever wanted to sell any part 1 off , whether it was part of it to the City for a park or sell the whole thing. Well no, once the church is built , if they wanted to build other facilities on there or if they wanted to subdivide it for any purpose , all I of those setback requirements would then be taken into account in that subdivision . Is that right? Hanson: Yes . j- II -- - Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 36 Emmi.n s : Those are essentially all g y 11 my comments . The only other thing I d like to mention is , this one fellow that researches religions got up and said that this is an issue of a group wanting to come in who ' s values I conflict with the Judeo-Christian values of this community and I want to say, since other people have expressed themselves I feel obligated to express myself on that. I don ' t know much about Eckankar . I don ' t think any of us do . Maybe that ' s intentional . Maybe it ' s not . I don ' t know but I 'm not going to come to the conclusion that they conflict with my values until I know more about them. I 'm not afraid of them. I don ' t care if my son goes to school with their kids . I have a young son here. I would not move out of the community if they moved in. People have said that they' re evil . That they' re wrong. We' ve heard Ku Klux Klan. We' ve heard Nazis . There is just no foundation in fact for any of those 11 comments. It' s just absurb to me so, I ' ve had my say and I didn' t get any applause . Ellson : I don ' t think that there' s anyway that I can deny this 1 application because we only want Judeo-Christians in Chanhassen. I think the more you want us to treat it special , to treat it morally, the more I feel we have to treat it more equally as we treat all our other applications . We could vote our heart and your heart and say no . It could go to Council . They could vote it all based on this moral issue and this organization has every right to contest the City Council approval , or denial I should say. They can sue us . They can bring us into Court and say they didn ' t use the letter of the law to deny us from building here . They used something outside that . They used something that America ' s not even founded on . You' re not allowed to deny based on moral issues . It ' s the law. We can not use that basis to say no , get out of town. What I want however is more proof to be able to deny it . I want more than opinion that you think it ' s going to devalue your property values . They' ve come with as much proof as you can see to prove all the points that it will not harm any of our conditions . What I 'm asking you to do , either prior to City Council or in the interim, is to do some homework. You all care. There' s no doubt about that but what I 'm asking for you, it ' s not the place of the City to try and build a case anti an applicant . Again, they could sue us and say that we' re anti , we' re not treating them fairly but I 'm asking you to do some homework. If you think it ' s going to depreciate property values , they' ve got a guy and a report and a study that says it does nothing , go out and find proof that it does . I 'm asking you to, for example, talk to some of these Minneapolis neighbors. Find some facts on houses that were sold prior to them coming in town . After them coming in town. See if you can prove that indeed the property value did go down. There is some concrete legal proof to deny. Talk to 11 solicitations from neighbors . If they' re in 260 cities , then they' ve got 260 plus neighbors . You might be able to find people who said yes , it ' s hurt our public health. Yes , it' s hurt our comfort. I 'm asking you to get some more proof than to ask us to deny it based on a moral issue. I don' t have to tell the different ways that you can go about doing this but I 'm basically saying , we can ' t have the City going and bringing out and putting together a case against an applicant . It goes against everything that ' s suppose to be fair play. They come to us . We ' re supposed to look at it like we look at everything else. We don ' t ask CPT, isn ' t 200 employees a little bit much. We were questioning that number of II II Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 37 IIemployees . We don ' t do that sort of thing on any other applicants . We can' t start questioning them and denying them because we think 23 is a 1 little too many office workers but I 'm saying , you know what the conditions are. We' ve read them. Do some homework and bring some concrete proof to the table and it' s real easy for the City Council to deny based on the fact that they can not meet these conditions. Like I Steve said , our basis is to look at the legalities . Are they meeting them? Are they not? We can' t deny it based on moral issues. I 'd also suggest you look into this issue of church . They' ve already been II classified as church according to our definition but maybe we could insinuate from the standpoint of some of their other facilities , this is a really big property. It' s got a lot of land. Do some of their other 260 I locations have the Bible Camps that we don ' t allow? The drug treatment centers that we don ' t allow. Day care centers . We could insinuate that that possibly would be in a long range plan here , therefore it wouldn ' t go by our definition. There ' s a lot more that we can do than just sit up I here and be worried about our children . We have to fight fire with fire . They' re sitting here with proof that they meet everything and I want people to come forth with proof that they' re not going to do it and not I just opinion. I 'm asking you for a called action and I 'm saying I agree with you. . . .or the Nazi party leaders but legally I can ' t do anything to prevent that because this world or this Constitution or what have you is telling us we can ' t use that for a basis of denying something so I 'm turning it back to you people. Prior to it getting to City Council , do a --- lot more homework. You' ve got somebody here , Jay I think it is , who has been studying this. He probably has some people ' s name and knows all II these locations and you ' ve got some of it done already. They' ve got proof that the neighbors say it ' s fine. I want to see proof that the neighbors say it isn ' t fine . That ' s what I 'm asking on the other side of the coin . II As of now, I think I 'd have to approve it. I can ' t look at the conditions and say they don ' t meet them. I have to look at the conditions and say yes , you do meet them but I 'm not the final approval . It ' s City Council . I 'm making an opinion . A lot of things change between then and now. A 1 lot of things happen quite a number of times on issues by the time it gets there so I 'm asking you, just to be a little more prepared . I know that you' re concerned enough citizens . I don' t think that anyone wouldn' t want I to do everything in their power and I 'm telling you there is something else you can do in your power to help the decision sway your way. Wildermuth : It ' s interesting to see so many people out on this emotional 1 issue tonight . I think we can count on a higher level of participation in Chanhassen government as a result of it. One of the things that' s very vexing about looking at an application like this and looking at our I ordinance is that one can ' t construct a set of ordinances to keep one church out and allow another church in. We' ve got a set of ordinances . We' ve got some zoning provisions . The property owner of record in this II case meets the intended use. Meets the zoning requirement . They have scrupulously met the conditions for the building codes or ordinances as they are presently codified . I have a concern about 20 employees in a church of 400 people on one hand. On the other hand, I guess it' s 1r- probably none of my business . I don ' t think we have a basis on which to deny this application. Denial would have to be based on moral judgments and I don ' t think a governmental body can be in the business of making II Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 38 moral judgments . They have to deal in facts . The facts are that a conditional use permits appear to be satisfied. Our permit standards appear to be satisfied . I will recommend approval . I guess there' s one final editorial comment that I 'd like to make and that is , it' s very troubling to see such high emotion toward a relatively unpopular church group. The country was founded on freedom on speech and freedom of religion . Pursue the religious beliefs that we have or that we may have. I think the thrust of the emotion here tonight being to deny that. I guess that ' s dismaying . That ' s all I have. Conrad: I have a few comments. A while back we did try to encourage a different use for this property when we rezoned it from campus business to some residential areas thinking that that would serve the needs of the community and put maybe that area on the tax roll but as you see , even with that, this is a use that if they meet the letter of the law, they can receive. I have some questions of our attorney specifically. In the conditional use permits, the different points . Number 1, we talk about the word comfort and I don' t know, I think the residents get concerned with the general term. I sympathize with them but what does comfort mean? Dave Grannis : It ' s a very difficult question to answer . Comfort means a lot of different things to a lot of different people but comfort might relate to noise . You might have a comfort level with a certain noise or a discomfort level . It might relate to odor . It might relate to different kinds of activities . Traffic might affect comfort . I think you have to look at the use of a particular piece of property to determine whether it ' s comfort or discomfort . I hope that answers your question . I Conrad: I don ' t know that you ' re going to give me, obviously these folks are not comfortable with what ' s going on. Obviously when you look to a condition that they' re trying to meet, their opinion would be they' re not comfortable and therefore Eckankar would not satisfy condition 1. In terms of health, safety and welfare, what are we looking at in health, safety and welfare? Dave Grannis : I think health , again you can go back to environmental kinds of health or you can go back to traffic kinds of things . That ' s , health and safety. General welfare , the well being of the public may be endangered by the particular use that they may put this property to . Well , if they were manufacturing explosives , that might be a general welfare, health, safety kind of an issue. You just have to kind of look at the words , apply the facts and make your determination . Conrad: Another condition, will not be disturbing to the existing , neighborhoods . What does disturbing mean? Dave Grannis: Again, that ' s I guess one of those words that means different things to different people . In a legal sense , I think if it interferes with the enjoyment of one' s property, maybe it would be disturbing to the individual or to the property owner . In this particular case, I would think that you have to . . . if you wanted to go in that direction , the activities of Eckankar may be disturbing to the surrounding area . II Planning Commission Meeting IIMarch 1, 1989 - Page 39 Conrad : So if Eckankar had a philosophy of outreach or door to door IIsolicitation, that might be disturbing? Dave Grannis : No . I think you' re getting , now you ' re getting into the religious , moral kind of an issue and this is really a land use issue . 1 That kind of activity is controlled or can be controlled by other city ordinances. Soliciting for example and I 'm sure that you ' ve probably dealt with that from time to time in your community. IIConrad : Future expansion. They basically would have the right to, I guess the issue of a non-taxpaying resident in Chanhassen bothers me a II little bit. I probably think we should be looking at property sizes for a non-taxpaying entity. There are no limits right now so Eckankar certainly has the ability to take up all the acres but I think in the future we may want to take a real serious look at how much property we want to take off IIthe tax roll . Wildermuth : Something like maximum size for a tax exempt? IIEmmings: Can you do it? Conrad : I think we could . Dave Grannis : My only comment is , I think maybe what you ' re suggesting is questionable. Whether or not it ' s legal but it ' s certainly another issue IIand maybe something that you would want to consider looking into . Conrad: In terms of Eckankar ' s impact on surrounding value, somebody II could present a case where there would be a negative impact value wise which we would have to, if houses to the north depreciate based on some expert ' s opinion , that might constitute an economic problem to the community. Wildermuth : But reason to withdraw the conditional use permit? I Emmings: You can remember the case with all the airplanes in Minneapolis? They just lost . All those homeowners . II Conrad : Do we have the ability to restrict through ordinance an expansion of a use? And I think a lot of the folks here, they' re not comfortable with it coming in period but there ' s also another few comments saying , gee, it' s changed over 3 years from the time they were here before. Other II than the fact that they have to come back in and see us if they want to expand, are there alternatives to restrict expansion that might be legal to pursue? IDave Grannis : I think your alternative , first of all they would have to come back and I think everybody acknowledges that, if they wanted to I. expand . Between now and that time, if your zoning ordinances change in Irsuch a way, expansion may not be allowed. There' s nothing to prevent you from doing those types of things but this conditional use , as long as they meet the terms and conditions of a permit should it be granted , and they II MN Planning Commission Meeting March 1 , 1989 - Page 40 operate within that , it' s perfectly legal al to do. Conrad: So it' s part of a permit? One, there' s no way to restrict future expansion other than through a reapplication process? And future , in terms of zoning, there might be but. . . Erhart : It ' s real simple. I 'm suggesting we just remove church from 1 allowed use . . .which is legal . Ellson : After the fact? Erhart: No. We can . . . Wildermuth : It has to meet the definition of the church though in the Code. Erhart : Remove churches as an allowed use in a R-4 district as a conditional use. That would solve it . Conrad : I think just to reinforce what Annette said , legally they have the right to do what they' re doing because they do meet our ordinances . I think, maybe there are cases where the City' s hands are tied and you think the City should go out and help. I think in some cases we can and City Council , you can talk to the City Council and see what they feel might be a course for you. But on the other hand, I think there are some points that may be debateable and they are points that you have to follow up on, if they are debateable. I think the property value is one. I think our city staff does not feel it' s going to be a negative impact . If you do , I think that' s something that you might pursue. I don' t know that the City can go out and do that . You may want to talk to your councilmen to find out. They might consider that. That might be one recourse. I think that ' s something I 'd be concerned with. I too would like to know more. I can treat this very clearly because I think they meet the letter of the law. I agree with the folks here that you like to see who ' s moving into the neighborhood and you get real nervous when you don' t know who they are . Obviously they have different beliefs and they' re not like mine or yours but it just makes you real nervous and then you think about your kids and I think I know those concerns . It would be , and I don ' t know if we can ever deal with them rationally, to tell you the truth. I 'm not sure that that' s possible. It would be nice to know. I think there have been some statements made. It would have been nice, in a different setting than this to go through some of their beliefs . Obviously, the people are not here for a reason and they didn ' t want to get into that obviously. They feel quite comfort that legally they can get this approved and I think they' re right. But the point is, you like to have people moving into the community who you like and know and want to be around and they' re not here tonight so that gives me a little bit of a hollow feeling . We have developers coming into town and we say meet with the residents and just talk to them. It ' s still not . . . for sure but at least you can get some sense for what they' re doing and I 'd prefer to hear some real absolute comments and some real evidence versus some emotional comments because it ' s tough to react to emotional stuff because it doesn' t stand up anyplace. Real research does and I think it ' s persuasive to the 1 Planning Commission Meeting I March 1, 1989 - Page 41 1 City Council . I don' t know enough about Eckankar right now. Nothing ' s been provided . Three years ago I saw a lot of information and they I appeared to be very fine community citizens . That ' s what I saw 3 years ago and I haven ' t been persuaded one way or another tonight that they' re not . I heard you . I heard the comments and I know you ' re nervous and I 'm a little bit nervous too. I just don ' t know what my kids are going to be I around but I didn' t hear something that I could hang on to . I would like to know more about them. I don' t think that' s an obligation on their part . I wished they would have preferred to do that . I wish they would I have been here or set up some forum for us to understand better. My opinion is narrow in terms of what we can do at the Planning Commission and it is to take a look at the 12 conditions and see how they apply. I I have some questions about some of them as I expressed but right now I haven ' t heard anything so I ' ve got a choice to make either to table this and have some of those things brought back or to pass it along to City Council in hopes that maybe the community or the residents who are real I interested in the issue , would do a little bit of work and maybe talk to the City Council on this subject. I think we can do some things in the future that might regulate some of these things and maybe even regulate a I little bit about what Eckankar does . That ' s why I wanted to bring some of those up. I ' ve made notes and we will take on some of those tasks to see what we can do. As I said, we did try to switch it from a big property into residential because I think that ' s what the neighborhood wanted and I think it ' s what the community needs . We do have a big problem now in Chanhassen if this goes through, is we don ' t have enough residential space in higher density. We did program that for higher density because it ' s I closer to downtown and closer to some main highways . I think what this does , it takes it out of that residential use. I think Chanhassen and Don and the City Council have some, and we have to figure out where more land I is coming from because there is pressure to develop and I don ' t think everybody is going to move out because of Eckankar . I think there ' s just tremendous pressure to grow. Therefore, I can relate to the comments . I don ' t think that I ' ve been persuaded right now to vote negatively. I ' think I 'm concerned with several issues . I would hope that those issues could be followed up by the residents . I think the biggest issue I have is property value. I do have a concern with some of the words in the I ordinance and I just really have , or in our conditions that we have to satisfy. I 'm nervous about, I think the operation there could impact the community. I think it could be negative to the community. Don ' t believe I it is but I don' t know. I just don' t know and I think because it' s taking a lot of our potentially taxable land away, I think we have to really know and we may never be satisfied from a religious standpoint. We don' t need converts . We don ' t have to say we believe in the religion but we have to I believe that they' re not going to negatively impact us . To me what ' s negative is different from other people. And I don ' t know if there ' s any legal justification for what I 'm just saying but it ' s something that I I just think when the City takes 174 acres , or whatever the number is , out of use, we' ve got to be pretty convinced that it ' s a good neighbor coming i.n . So I have those comments but I 'm not sure that I can vote against it right now and I think my preference is to send it along to City Council . y IHopefully they read our comments . We ' ve got the Mayor is here and other councilmen are here and I think they' ll consider this . I think there' s only so much we can do on this issue and I think we can do some things in I IM I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 42 the future but it may not be satisfactory to right now. So with you g ai th those comments, I would accept a motion . Erhart : Can I make another comment? Conrad: Sure . Erhart : It disturbs me a little bit . We ' ve had over 560 names on a petition come in here. We' ve had approximately 200 people come in and take their evening on this issue . The people here I assume mostly are citizens of Chanhassen. We' ve had myself, Steve and yourself indicate that you' re uncomfortable with the information you have. You'd like more. Annette has stated that the people here that came tonight owe us more information . There ' s a sense that the City is incapable of responding to the money that was spent for this presentation. I just think that' s wrong . I think we owe our citizens more than that . I don ' t think we are incapable. We spent last year , if I look at the City budget, $400, 000. 00 on consultants and I think we are capable of taking some time and hiring our own consultants so that we get into a fair ballgame and we get this information in front of us so either us or the City Council , and I don ' t disagree that we should send it on but I think we ought to give a message to the City Council and the staff that we think the City, given the concern we have, and these are our citizens today. Eckankar is not . They' re a landowner but they' re not citizens of Chanhassen . I think we owe it to them to do our own independent study on this thing. Conrad : What would you study? Erhart : I 'd study the appraisal situation . I 'd study their history on other sites around the country and find out what kind of a neighbor they are . Conrad : In terms of? Erhart : Excess services required . I already stated property values . As I stated before, I think we ought to take the time to check with the Attorney General ' s office to review what this is and to try to get a feel of what is this? Is it a pseudo-church? Pseudo-business? Where is the line drawn here? Where is there a line on this? We've seen it , anybody who reads the newspapers has seen it ' s becoming a hazy line what ' s a church and what ' s a business these days with television. I won ' t say anything further . I really think as a message to the Council is that we ought to spend some time. I think it ' s owed to these people on what , there ' s 174 acres and a lot of money involved here , if nothing to do with the moral issues . Conrad : If we hired a consultant to evaluate conditions 1, 4 , 6 and 11 . Is that within our . . . , an independent consultant reviewing? Dave Grannis : Yes , it certainly is . I 'm not sure that this body has the authority to hire an appraiser . Conrad : We don ' t but we could make those recommendations . II II Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 43 r IIDave Grannis : You could make a recommendation to the Council to hire a real estate person. Do what other even additional investigation you deem Iappropriate and the Council would have to decide what they want to do . Conrad: I think that 's not a bad idea. I think the question is , do we II want to , again , we' ve got to forward it on so they can appropiate money or not. Any other comments? Wildermuth : I don ' t know what that ' s going to solve though Ladd. Our IIhired gun against their hired gun. Conrad : That ' s alright . IIEllson : It ' s the proof that we need . I was wondering , if we ' re putting together a case anti them, doesn ' t that look a little shakey in the Court? We contacted 260 and we found one . I don ' t know if it ever got I sued or whatever that we would look like we have any ground to stand on. It looks like the City was trying to keep people out so you hired people to give you a report. Dave Grannis : Not necessarily. I Ellson : I mean I would love to be able to do that . I was just wondering ` what it would look like. I 'm the one who said I want more proof. If we can legally do it and a Judge would sit there and say that ' s fine. It was unbiased and I 'm all for it. My first instinct is you ' re hiring someone Ito do a study and you ' re hoping that it will show you what you want . Conrad: I think Jim, they may not find out anything but I think it ' s kind I of city tax dollars and I think the residents , there have been enough that said, although a lot of them aren' t from Chanhassen, I wish they were helping pay for some of this but I think there ' s enough residents that I said we' re concerned that they'd probably say spend some of our money to do a little bit of research on this and persuade us that we' re not going to have our property values aren ' t going to go down . I think that ' s real valid. I think that ' s real valid to use city money that way yet I don ' t Imake that decision. Is there a motion? Emmi.ngs: I ' ll move that the Planning Commission recommend approval of I Conditional Use Permit #89-1 for Eckankar Church subject to plans and descriptive packet stamped "Received January 23 , 1989" with the conditions set forth in the staff report with the additional conditions identified by Tim from page 4 , that ' s number 7 , 8 , 9 and 10 of Gary Warren' s report . I With the additional condition, again brought up by Tim that there would be no outdoor speaker system connected with the construction. Then I don ' t recall , I wrote down nutrient , assessment of the nutrient impact on Lake IRiley. Was that ever performed? Erhart : That ' s one of Gary' s . I Emmi.ngs : Okay, that ' s one of Gary' s so forget that one . That ' s my motion . I I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 44 Ellson : I ' ll second it. Emmings : If I can discuss my own motion right off the bat. I agree that the City Council should look at the issue of impact on property since it was raised by as many people as it was that live right near by. To take a look at that issue so they' re comfortable. That is a troublesome thing . I didn ' t put it in my motion . I think it should go maybe as a separate recommendation because I think maybe the scope of what Tim wants investigated and the scope of what I 'd want looked into might be different and maybe we could all express our own ideas about what the scope of any further investigation might be and just pass that off as comments to the City Council . That was my note on that. Conrad : What do you think Tim? , Erhart : I think I already made my comments of what I think I 'd like to have investigated. Perhaps the other members would like to expand on it. Conrad : But in terms of the motion, by the procedure of voting on this separately and then making a recommendation separately from the motion? I Erhart : Sure . Conrad : Any other discussion? ' Ellson : I think we already covered the property values . I don ' t think we should go through a lot of them. The other one that I suggested earlier was the definition of church . Maybe this is the only one of the 259 out there that doesn' t have a Bible Camp associated with it. By looking at the land they' re buying, maybe they are thinking that down the road so I think we should also be looking at how the other locations apply to our definition of church. Long range. Short range. Things like that too as well as the property value and comfort level and the other ones we' ve already discussed . Erhart : Ladd , in response to your question, what I would like to see the sequence is to have, table the motion and have the study done. The other II way' s fine too . I ' ll just vote against it . Emmings moved, Ellson seconded that the Planning Commission recommend , approval of Conditional Use Permit ##89-1 for Eckankar Church subject to the plans and descriptive packet stamped "Received January 23 , 1989" with the following conditions : ' 1. Add trees to the center landscape islands with parking lot . 2. Curb the parking lot edge where head in stalls are shown, and the ' landscape islands at the end of the service drive. 3. Entrance sign is not to be illuminated . ' 4. Lighting poles reduced to 15 ' - 18 ' in height . 1 I Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 45 5. Roof material to have matte finish and not glare. II6. Exterior of building must not be illuminated . 7. The nose of the proposed island cannot extend into the right-of-way of CSAH 17. The right-of-way line is 50 feet from the roadway centerline . The County would prefer that the entrance design be similar to the design of the entrance on the east side of CSAH 17. II8 . A plan must be presented showing the proposed road grade and cross section. The plan should identify the need for the large radius on I the proposed entrance . It is the preference of the County to have the radius less than 50 feet. 9 . Turn lanes will be required on the entrance . The entrance 1 application should include the turn lane design details . 10. The applicant be required to submit construction plans and 1 specifications for the installation of the watermai.n and sanitary sewer lines for approval by the City Engineer . I 11. Runoff calculations be submitted to confirm that the pre-development runoff rate criteria of the Watershed District and the City are being complied with. I 12 . A drainage easement be dedicated to the City in accordance with the attached legal description and sketch to accommodate storm water runoff . ' 13 . Necessary permits from the County and Watershed District are obtained and complied with prior to construction . I14 . A roadway cross-section shall be submitted for review along with the skimmer detail plan as discussed in the EAW for the parking lot area . I15. The applicant shall use Type III erosion control throughout the site. 16. Concrete barrier curbing be included on the entrance roadway and parking perimeters . II 17 . The applicant address the nutrient loading impacts to Riley Lake . II 18. The applicant address the concerns of the County Engineer as presented in the February 15 , 1989 correspondence . II 19 . The applicant cooperate with the City in the future siting of a frontage road paralleling TH 5. I20. There shall be no outside speaker system on the site . All voted in favor except Erhart who opposed and the motion carried with a vote of 4 to 1. I M - -_ 1 Planning Commission Meeting March 1, 1989 - Page 46 1 Erhart : For the record , I would like to see it tabled until we had further information. Conrad : And then maybe I ' ll start the process in terms of what, we also recommend, we' ve got to make a motion so I can ' t do it . Emmings : Do we have to make a motion or can we just do it as . . . Conrad: I ' ll preface it. We make a recommendation to the City Council . Because we' re taking such a large parcel of land from Chanhassen and putting it in a non-tax generating mode, that we feel it ' s important to be comfortable with several issues in regard to the Eckankar application . That we'd like to have the City Council consider hiring an independent consultant to review Eckankar ' s impact on property values , the additional services that they may need, the status that Eckankar has as a church and it ' s application to conditions 1, 4 , 6 and 11, our requirements for conditional use permit. Anything else? Emmings : I concur with that recommendation . 1 Conrad : Any contrary opinions? This item will go to City Council April 10th. Thank you for coming in. It ' s fun to see the chambers filled occasionally even if it ' s not always a pleasant thing we' re talking about but I 'd invite you to stay on the issue and talk to your councilmen and watch it as it goes through the City Council . Thank you for attending . APPROVAL OF MINUTES : Batzli moved, Ellson seconded to approve the Minutes of the Planning Commission meeting dated February 15 , 1989 as presented . All voted in favor except Erhart who abstained and the motion carried . Batzli moved, Emmings seconded to adjourn the meeting. All voted in favor and the motion carried . The meeting was adjourned at 11: 30 p.m. . Submitted by Steve Hanson Planning Director Prepared by Nann Opheim 1 1 1 I C Y 1 T O F P.C. DATE: March 1, 1939 �Pc��i lo, C 1-111.11nAsSEN C.C. DATE: 14 10,, 1989 Y CASE N0: 89-1 CUP IPrepared by: Hanson/v li STAFF REPORT li I PROPOSAL: Conditional Use Permit for Construction of a Church in the R-4, Mixed Low Density District IZ LOCATION: Located i mile north of Hwy. 5 and west of QPowers Boulevard Io _! APPLICANT: Eckankar by Eckankar I CL Robert I . Hoffman P.O. Box 2730 c/o Larkin, Hoffman, Daly & Lindgren New Hope, MN Q 7900 Xerxes Ave. So. , Suite 1500 55427 II Bloomington, MN 55431 II PRESENT ZONING: RSF, Single Family, R-4, Mixed Low Density, and IR-12, High Density Residential ACREAGE: 174 acres IIDENSITY: N/A ADJACENT ZONING IIAND LAND USE: N- RSF; existing single family QS- IOP; existing industrial office park I1"<7 E- RSF, R-4 , R-12 & BG; existing residential f,..‘ & vacant• IW W- RR & RD; Lake Ann & Lake Ann Park WATER AND SEWER: Available to the site. 1 (I) PHYSICAL CHARAC. : I 2000 LAND USE PLAN: Shown as Residential-Low Density, Campus Business & Commercial II EcKankar Church CUP March 1 , 1989 1 Page 2 BACKGROUND 1 This application is for conditional use permit approval for a church pursuant to the requirements of the City Code. The Code provides a definition of churches . The applicants have provided documentation that they are a church as defined in the City Code. Churches are allowed in six ( 6 ) of the zoning districts in the city. The Office and Institutional District allows churches as a permitted use, subject to site plan approval. The RR, RSF, R-4, R-8, and R-12 Districts allow churches as a conditional use sub- ject to the conditional use provisions of Article IV of the Zoning Chapter of the City Code. The issuance of a conditional use permit is subject to the general issuance standards of Section 20-232 and the specific standards for churches contained in Section 20-258. In addition, the application is subject to site plan review requirements of the Zoning Chapter. This divi- sion establishes requirements for submittal of site plans to comply with requirements of the Zoning Chapter. ANALYSIS The applicant has submitted a complete site plan package pursuant to the information to be submitted. In reviewing this infor- mation, a few items need to be noted. SITE PLAN COMMENTS 1 1 . Height of Building - The applicant has noted the height of the building as being 65 feet from the lowest point to the highest with the height being 50 feet on the front side. The zoning code measures height from the average ground elevation adjoining the front walls of the building to the highest point of the building. The maximum height allowed in the RSF, R-4, and R-12 Districts is 40 feet or three stories , except for "places of public assembly in churches , schools , and other public and semi-public buildings, provided these are located on the first floor of such building" . In this case for every 3 feet of height above maximum height noted for the zoning district, the side and rear yards shall be increased by an additional foot. This application exceeds this setback requirement substantially, and is in compliance with zoning requirements. 2 . Landscaping - The plans as submitted comply with the code , requirements pursuant to Article XXV. Staff would recommend the addition of trees in the center landscape islands of the parking area to provide a more visual break in the parking surface. Section 20-1234 of the Code requires all landscaped areas to be protected by concrete curbing. The applicants have shown curbing around all landscaped islands, however, ' I 1 Eckankar Church CUP March 1, 1989 Page 3 ' the perimeter of the parking area and edge of the access drive are not curbed, nor are the landscaped islands at the end of the access drives. The latter should be curbed. The perimeter of the parking area where head in stalls are shown, ' should be curbed to provide a defined curb stop. Other curbing would not be necessary for landscape protection, but may be appropriate in some areas for drainage. ' 3 . Signage - The single sign complies with City Code requirements . It is our understanding the sign will not be illuminated. 4 . Lighting - The plan calls for two types of lighting to be used on the property. Pedestrian areas near the front entrance will be illuminated with 42" bollard lights . The vehicular areas ' will be illuminated by 25 ' high pole fixtures with down cast fixtures. Staff would prefer a shorter pole of 15 ' -18 ' in height which would be more in keeoing with the typical street 1 light height for residential areas . The trade off is this would require more lighting standards on the site. General Issuance Standards for Conditional Use Permits The Planning Commission and City Council in issuaing a conditional use permit must find that the use: g ' 1. Will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, Y comfort, convenience or general welfare of the neighborhood or ' the city. The proposed use exceeds the city requirements for zoning district and specific conditional use standards for churches 1 and therefore would find the application in compliance with this criteria. 2. Will be consistent with the objectives of the city' s comprehen- sive plan and this chapter. The Comprehensive Plan does not specifically address churches other than recognizing churches as part of the public and semi-public development, a dispersed land use in the community. The proposal is in compliance with the 1 zoning standards and conditional use provisions for churches . 3 . Will be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained so to be compatible in appearance with the existing or intended character of the general vicinity and will not change the essential character of that area. With the large setbacks and the vast amount of land com- mitted to be left undisturbed the proposal will not change ' the essential character of the area. Operation and main- tenance is similar to any other church facility with ser- vices on Sunday mornings and other events during the week. 1 Eckankar Church CUP March 1 , 1989 1 Page 4 4. Will not be hazardous or disturbing to existing or planned neighboring uses. The use as a church will not be hazardous or disturbing to neighboring uses . 5 . Will be served adequately by essential public facilities and services, including streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, water and sewer systems and schools; or will be served adequately by such facilities and services provided by the persons or agencies responsible for the establishment of the proposed use. Adequate services are available to the site and the appli- , cant is extending the services to the facility. There have been no deficiencies noted by persons or agencies who pro- vide the services . ' 6 . Will not create excessive requirements for public facilities and services and will not be detrimental to the economic welfare of the community. The proposed use will generally create less need for public facilities and services than if developed residentially pur- , suant to the present zoning. The applicants have agreed to bear their share of costs for public improvements. Like any church, Eckankar is a tax exempt religious organization. , 7. Will not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, equipment and conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property or the general welfare because of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, odors, rodents, or trash. The proposal will not generate excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes , odors , rodents, or trash. 8. Will have vehicular approaches to the property which do not 1 create traffic congestion or interfere with traffic or surrounding public thoroughfares. The proposal has been designed to provide access pursuant to city requirements . The traffic information shows no traffic congestion nor interference with traffic. I 9. Will not result in the destruction, loss or damage of solar access, natural, scenic or historic features of major signifi- cance. The proposal dill not impact solar access, natural, scenic or historic features. 1 Eckankar Church CUP March 1 , 1989 Page 5 ' 10. Will be aesthetically compatible with the area. ' the area sround the facility will be left in a natural state thus preserving a large buffer between the facility and surrounding land use. The exterior materials of the struc- ture will be dark bronze anodized aluminum. The roof is to ' be gold anodized aluminum. In order for the latter to be compatible with the area, the roof should have a matte finish to minimize glare from sunlight. Also, the structure Ishould not be bathed in light. 11. Will not depreciate surrounding property values. ' With the size of the site and the generous open space buffer between the facility and adjacent properties, staff cannot justify an impact on property values. 12. Will meet standards prescribed for certain uses as provided in this article. ' The site is located on a collector roadway (Powers Boulevard) and access is provided directly from Powers Boulevard and not through a residential area. The structure '. exceeds the minimum setback of 50 feet from all property lines . The parking areas exceed the required setbacks of 25 ' from streets and 30 ' from residential property. Less than ' -0% of the site is covered with impervious surface and the remainder is to be landscaped in accordance with Article XXV. The applicant is in compliance with the specific cri- teria for churches as a conditional use. REFERRAL COMMENTS ' The following referral comments have been received on this pro- ject: ' Building Inspector 1 . The building is a two story building - UBC Sec. 420 . ' 2 . Height of building is 55 ' - UBC Sec. 409 & 424 . 3 . SBC 1340. 0300 Subp. 5 requires handicap parking space to be located " . . . . as near as practicable to the building entrance • . " ; 190 ' is too far away. The six handicap spaces should be moved to the east or west of the drop- off area of the parking lot. Fire Inspector ' 1. The building is to be completely sprinklered, (Minn. Building Code Appendix E Sec. 1305 . 6905 ) ; Eckankar Church CUP March 1 , 1989 Page 6 2 . A fire alarm system shall be installed in accordance with NFPA requirements ; 3 . An additional fire hydrant shall be installed in the area of the front entrance; ' 4 . Both service drives shall be posted "No Parking Fire Lanes" ; I 5 . Lock box shall be provided by the front entrance; Alarm annunciator panel shall be located by the main 1 entrance. Minnegasco , 1 . Natural gas available. Carver County Engineer , 1. The nose of the proposed island cannot extend into the right-of-way of CSAH 17 . The right-of-way line is 50 feet from the roadway centerline. The County would prefer that the entrance design be simi- lar to the design of the entrance on the east side of CSAH 17 . 2 . A plan must be presented showing the proposed road grade I and cross section. The plan should identify the need for the large radius on the proposed entrance. It is the preference of the County to have the radius less than 50 feet. 3 . Turn lanes will be required on the entrance. The entrance application should include the turn lane design details . City Engineer , 1 . The applicant be required to submit construction plans and specifications for the installation of the watermain and , sanitary sewer lines for approval by the City Engineer. 2 . Runoff calculations be submitted to confirm that the pre- development runoff rate criteria of the Watershed District and the City are being complied with. 3 . A drainage easement be dedicated to the City in accordance with the attached legal description and sketch to accommodate -torm water runoff. Eckankar Church CUP March 1 , 1989 Page 7 ' 4 . Necessary permits from the County and Watershed District are obtained and complied with prior to construction. 5 . A roadway cross-section shall be submitted for review along with the skimmer detail plan as discussed in the EAW for the parking lot area. 6 . The applicant shall use Type III erosion control throughout the site. ' Agencies With No Comments Public Safety Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ' U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Park and Recreation ' Agencies Not Responding NSP ' NW Bell MNDOT Soil Conservation Service Watershed District RECOMMENDATION Planning staff recommends the Planning Commission adopt the following motion: "The Planning Commission recommends approval of Conditional Use Permit #89-1 for Eckankar Church subject to plans and descriptive ''acket stamped "Received January 23 , 1989" with the following conditions : 1 . Add trees to the center landscape islands with parking lot. ' 2 . Curb the parking lot edge where head in stalls are shown, and the landscape islands at the end of the service drive. 3 . Entrance sign is not to be illuminated. 4 . Lighting poles reduced to 15 ' - 18 ' in height. ' 5 . Roof material to have matte finish and not glare. 6 . Exterior of building must not be illuminated. 7 . The nose of the proposed island cannot extend into the right- of-way of CSAH 17. The right-of-way line is 50 feet from the roadway centerline. Eckankar Church CUP March 1, 1989 Page 8 The County would prefer that the entrance design be similar , to the design of the entrance on the east side of CSAH 17. 8 . A plan must be presented showing the proposed road grade and , cross section. The plan should identify the need for the large radius on the proposed entrance. It is the preference of the County to have the radius less than 50 feet. 9 . Turn lanes will be required on the entrance. The entrance application should include the turn lane design details . 10. The applicant be required to submit construction plans and specifications for the installation of the watermain and sanitary sewer lines for approval by the City Engineer. , 11. Runoff calculations be submitted to confirm that the pre- development runoff rate criteria of the Watershed District and the City are being complied with. 12 . A drainage easement be dedicated to the City in accordance with the attached legal description and sketch to accommodate storm water runoff. 13. Necessary permits from the County and Watershed District are obtained and complied with prior to construction. 14 . A roadway cross-section shall be submitted for review along with the skimmer detail plan as discussed in the EAW for the parking lot area. 15 . The applicant shall use Type III erosion control throughout the site. ATTACHMENTS I 1 . Memo from Steve Kirchman dated February 7 , 1989 . 2 . Memo from Mark Littfin dated February 9 , 1989 . 1 3 . Letter from Bill Weckman dated February 15, 1989. 4 . Memo from Gary Warren dated February 17, 1989. I CITY OF _3: CHANHASSEN 690 COULTER DRIVE • P.O. BOX 147 • CHANHASSEN, MINNESOTA 55317 ' (612) 937-1900 MEMORANDUM TO: Steve Hanson, City Planner FROM: Steve A. Kirchman, Building Inspector DATE: February 7, 1989 SUBJ: Planning Case #89-1 CUP (Eckankar Church) I ' 1 . The building is a two story building - UBC Sec. 420 . 2 . Height of building is 55 ' - UBC Sec. 409 & 424 . ' 3 . SEC 1340 . 0300 Subp. 5 requires handicap barking space to be located " . . . . as near as practicable to the building entrance . . . " ; 190 ' is too far away. The six handicap ' spaces should be movsd to the east or west of the drop- off area of the parsing lot. CIT'{ OF \ CHANHASSEN 1 690 COULTER DRIVE • P.O. BOX 147 • CHANHASSEN, MINNESOTA 55317 (612) 937-1900 MEMORANDUM 1 TO: Steve Hanson, City Planner 111 FROM: Mark Littfin, Fire Inspector DATE: February 9, 1989 1 SUBJ: 89-1 CUP (Eckankar Church) 1 The following is a list of requirements : 1. The building is to be completely sprinklered, (Minn. Building Code Appendix E Sec. 1305. 6905 ) ; 2 . A fire alarm system shall be installed in accordance with NFPA requirements ; 3 . An additional fire :.ydrant shall be installed in the area 1 of the front entrance; 4 . Both service drives shall be posted "No Parking Fire Lanes" ; 5 . Lock box shall be provided by the front entrance; 1 6 . Alarm annunciator panel shall be located by the main entrance. 1 1 1 i 1 I CARVER COUNTY COURTHOUSE I PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT ` 600 EAST 4TH STREET (612) 448-3435 • CHASKA,MINNESOTA 55318 NN E S° 1 COUNTY OF CA VEQ ilFebruary 15, 1989 IStephen Hanson Planning Director City of Chanhassen I 690 Coulter Drive P.O. Box 147 Chanhassen, MN. 55317 IIRE: Planning Case 89-1 CUP (Eckankar Church) IDear Mr. Hanson: We have reviewed the proposed Eckankar Church CUP and submit the following comments: IThe proposed entrance appears adequate in concept but Carver County will re- quire application for an access permit from the Carver County Engineer's Of- ' fice. As part of the application Carver County will require detailed informa- tion concerning the following: II 1 . The nose of the proposed island cannot extend into the right of way of CSAH 17. The right of way line is 50 feet from the roadway centerline. I The County would prefer that the entrance design be similar to the design of the entrance on the East side of CSAH 17. I 2. A plan must be presented showing the proposed road grade and cross section. The plan should identify the need for the large radius on the proposed entrance. It is the preference of the County to have the radius less than 50 feet. II 3. Turn lanes will be required on the entrance. The entrance ap- plication should include the turn lane design details. ' Thank you for the opportunity to submit our comments. If you have questions concerning the comments, feel free to contact me at your convenience. ISincerely, IWilliam J. Weckman, P. E. FEB 1 6 1989 Assistant County Engineer L:iTY OF CHANHASSEN IAffirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer s CITY OF C ' ANHASSEN II II \\ (\ _' 690 COULTER DRIVE • P.O. BOX 147 • CHANHASSEN, MINNESOTA 55317 ----, (612) 937-1900 II MEMORANDUM TO: Planning Commission I FROM: Gary Warren, City Engineer I DATE: February 17, 1989 SUB,.: Eckankar Church Conditional Use Application I File No. 89-1 CUP The following are my thoughts concerning the Eckankar conditional ' use permit application. As a part of the documents submitted for review, the applicant has prepared an evironmental assessment II worksheet which, in detail, reviews the proposal for the site. As this is very complete, I will not reiterate the description of the project but rather refer you to that document. In general, I find the application very complete. The following II are a few items of interest/concern to note: Sanitary Sewer II The applicant has proposed to service the site via a 6-inch sani- II tar_y sewer line. The City' s minimum standard for a line of this nature is 8-inch diameter. The discussion in the EAW references the preferred alternate of connecting to the sanitary sewer at Saddlebrook Curve. From a capacity standpoint, it would be the II preference of this office that the sanitary sewer be connected to the City' s existing 8-inch trunk as shown on sheet 6 of the applicant' s plans and not at the Saddlebrook Curve location. II The applicant will be required to obtain a permit from the County for crossing County Road 17 and, in all likelihood, will not be allowed to open cut County Road 17 for this connection. Watermain 11 The applicant shows looping an 8-inch watermain into the property II from the City' s existing 12-inch watermain along the west side of County Road 17 . I am presuming that the size of this watermain has been established in accordance with the peak sprinkler II demands for the facility, although I have not been provided with those calculations. Specific plans and specifications would be required to be submitted for final approval by the City Engineering Department, at which time valve locations and other II specifics of the construction would be reviewed. II ill Planning Commission February 17 , 1989 Page 2 Roadway I would concur with the Assistant County Engineer ' s comments con- ' cerning the large radii proposed at the entrance and the other comments as noted in their February 15, 1989 correspondence. The 30-foot wide street width appears sufficient. The plans did not include a typical section for this roadway which shall be sub- mitted along with the construction documents for this site appro- val. The trip generation information contained in the EAW appears to confirm that the level of service impacts to the adjoining connector roadways will not be adversely affected by this site development and use. As part of the submission of the typical road section, concrete curbing along the entrance drive would be required. Also, if the watershed district concurs , barrier curbing should be constructed around the parking lot perimeter. It should be noted that the City is currently working with the Municipal State Aid Office to hopefully obtain concurrence for a frontage road along the north side of Trunk Highway 5 across the ' Eckankar property. This is to address the future access needs which are restricted by Highway 5. This also represents the need for the City to provide alternate frontage road capabilities to service the properties including the Lake Ann Park area. A road- way easement along this southerly portion of the property abutting Trunk Highway 5 may be desirable by the City from the Eckankar property in the future. ' Drainage/Erosion Control/Site Grading Again, the EAW goes into detail in explaining the proposed grading for the site. From my perspective, the drainage plan appears compatible with the site and provisions have been made for accommodating storm water runoff in a detention basin to the north of the church site. Calculations have not been provided to confirm that the predevelopment runoff rate is being maintained; however, a crude evaluation appears to indicate that this is ' being accomplished. The EAW references a skimmer which would be proposed for cap- turing solids and floatable runoff from the parking lot area; however, a detail has not been provided for review at this time. An erosion control plan was submitted supplemental to the origi- nal plan set spelling out the areas for placement of the erosion control . The City would require the applicant to utilize its Type III erosion control, i . e. hay bales, silt fence and snow fence in combination. Necessary erosion control measures would ' also be required as a part of the construction of the sanitary sewer and watermains for this project. The EAW does not address the common criticism which is received on any development within the Riley Creek Watershed, that being r Planning Commission February 17, 1989 Page 3 that any increase in surface runoff volume from developments , within this area has a leaching effect on nutrients (phosphorus ) from Rice Marsh Lake which impacts Lake Riley. Although typi- cally this is an unavoidable consequence of development and it should be recognized as an impact. As noted in the EAW, the City has communicated with Eckankar in December ( see attached letter) seeking to acquire a ponding ease- ment for storm water management purposes on the southeast corner of this property. A portion of the existing site will be accom- modated in this ponding area which also used to be the gathering point for drainage from the properties to the east of Powers Boulevard, i .e. James , Burdick, et al. To protect the City' s interests concerning the construction timeframe for the West 78th Street detachment project ( 87-2) , the City Council recently authorized commencement of condemnation proceedings for this site in the remote instance that we are not able to reasonably obtain 11 this property in the near future. The site grading will eliminate one 0 . 3 acre Type I wetland and, as noted, will be replacing this wetland with a 0 . 3 acre storm i water retention basin as shown on the plans . Recommendation It is therefore recommended that the conditional use permit #89-1 for the Eckankar church be approved with the following con- ditions : ' 1. The applicant be required to submit construction plans and specifications for the installation of the watermain and sanitary sewer lines for approval by the City Engineer. 2 . Runoff calculations be submitted to confirm that the ?redeve- lopment runoff rate criteria of the Watershed District and the City are being complied with. 3 . A drainage easement be dedicated to the City in accordance , with the attached legal description and sketch to accommodate storm water runoff. 4 . Necessary permits from the County and Watershed District are obtained and complied with prior to construction. 5 . A roadway cross-section shall be submitted for review along ' with the skimmer detail plan as discussed in the EAW for the parking lot area. 6 . The applicant shall use Type III erosion control throughout the site. 1 11 I Planning Commission February 17, 1989 Page 4 I 7 . Concrete barrier curbing be included on the entrance roadway ' and parking perimeters. 8 . The applicant address the nutrient loading impacts to Riley Lake. ' 9 . The applicant address the concerns of the County Engineer as presented in the February 15 , 1989 correspondence. ' 10 . The applicant cooperate with the city in the future siting of a frontage road paralleling T.H. 5 . ' Attachments 1 . February 15, 1989 memo from the County. 2 . October 28, 1988 letter from the City. 3 . Pond easement, legal description and map. 4 . Type III erosion control detail. I ti 1 JAMES P HRFIN LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, LTD. J ROBERT L.. KIN DAVID.1.PEAT JACK F DALY MICHAEL.T V ' O.KENNETH LINDGREN CHARLES R WEAVER WENOELL R.ANDERSON ATTORNEYS AT LAW HERMAN GL..ELLA GERALD H.FRIEDELL VINCENT J. ITC ALLAN E.MULLIGAN ANDREW J.MITCHELL JOHN A.COTTER ROBERT J.HENNESSEY BEATRICE A.ROTHWEILER JAMES C.ERICKSON 1500 NORTHWESTERN FINANCIAL CENTER 2000 PIPER JAFFRAY TOWER PAUL B.PLUNKETT EDWARD J.DRISCOLL ALAN L.KILDOW JAMES P MILEY 7900 XERXES AVENUE SOUTH 222 SOUTH NINTH STREET KATHLEEN M.PICOTTE NEWMAN GENE N.FULLER MICHAEL A.LEBARON DAVID C.SELLERGREN BLOOMINGTON,MINNESOTA 55431 MINNEAPOLIS,MINNESOTA$5402 FRANCIS E.GIBERSON RICHARD J.KEENAN TRACY R.ETCH CORN-HICKS" JOHN D.FULLMER TELEPHONE 16121 835-3800 TELEPHONE 16121 338-6610 AMY DARR GRADY ROBERT E.BOYLE CATHERINE BARNETT WILSON• FRANK I.HARVEY FAX(6121 896-3333 FAX(6121 336-9760 CHARLES 5,MODELL JEFFREY C.ANDERSON CHRISTOPHER J.OIETZEN DANIEL L.BOWIES JOHN R.BEATTIE TODD H. J.McMANU LINDA H.FISHER TIMOTHY J. KORS US THOMAS P STOLTMAN NORTH SUBURBAN OFFICE GREGORY E.KORSTAD LISA A.GRAY STEVEN G.LEVIN FORREST O.NOWLIN 8990 SPRINGBROOK DRIVE,SUITE 250 GARY A.RENNEKE MICHAEL C.JACKMAN THOMAS M.WEAVER JOHN E.DIEHL COON RAPIDS,MINNESOTA 55433 SHANNON K.MCCAMBRIDOE MICHAEL S.COHEN JON S.SWIERZEWSKI J. TELEPHONE(6121 786-7117 DENISE M.NORTON THOMAS J.FLYNN FLYN GARY A.VAN CLEVE JAMES P OUINN TODD I.FREEMAN FAX 16121 786-6711 MICHAEL B.BRAMAN JOSEPH W.DICKER STEPHEN B.SOLOMON JACOUE LINE F.DIETZ PETER K.BECK GAYLEN L.KNACK RODNEY H.KAHNKE D EN EY IVES JULIE A.W RASE Iv ES OMAN KURETICH Reply to Bloomington GERALD L SECK JOHN B.LUNDQUIST CHRISTOPHER J.HARRISTHAL DAYLE NOLAN• SHARON L.BRENNA MARIKAY CANAGA LITZAU THOMAS B.HUMPHREY,JR. TIMOTHY J.KEANE JON R.NORBERG WILLIAM C.GRIFFITH THEODORE A. U.STEFFENHAGEN NDALE JOHN J.STEFFE DANIEL W.VOSS March 1, 1989 OF COUNSEL JOSEPH GITIS Planning Commission RICHARD A.NORDBYE ...LSO ADMITTED IN City of Chanhassen WISCONSIN 690 Coulter Drive Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 ' Re: Eckankar Church Dear Planning Commission Members: I The Chanhassen staff report for the Eckankar Church recommends approval of the conditional use and finds that the proposed ' development meets all of the standards and conditions for approval. The report recommends 15 conditions as part of the approval . This letter advises the Planning Commission in specific detail as to the ways in which Eckankar will comply with each condition. Condition No. 1: Add trees to the center landscape islands with parking lot. ' Response: Eckankar agrees that it will add additional landscaping of the parking lot and will comply with the recommendation. Barton- Aschman Associates, Inc . , has revised the landscape plan to show the new trees in the landscape islands . Condition No. 2: Curb the parking lot edge where head in parking stalls are shown, and the landscape islands at the end of the service , drive. Response: , Eckankar agrees to comply with the recommendation and Barton- Aschman has revised the plans to show the requested curbs . i I LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, LTD. Planning Commission ' March 1, 1989 Page 2 ' Condition No. 3 : Entrance sign is not to be illuminated. Response: The entrance sign will not be illuminated and the plans now specifically note that restriction. ' Condition No. 4: Lighting poles reduced to 15-18 feet in height. Response: ' Eckankar agrees to reduce the height of the lighting poles to 18 ' . This will require the addition of two additional light poles . Barton-Aschman has revised the lighting plan to incorporate this ' change and Eckankar's compliance with this recommendation. Condition No. 5: Roof material to have matte finish and not glare. ' Response: The roof material is to be non-reflective to blend in compatibly ' with the surrounding topography and vegetation, as specified in the EAW. The building plans will specify that the roof material will have a non-glare matte finish. Condition No. 6: Exterior building must not be illuminated. ' Response: In discussing this recommendation further with staff, staff 's concern is that "the structure should not be bathed in light" . It ' is not the intent to bathe the Church in light. There will be some building illumination, particularly around entrances to the Church, for safety, and low level illumination along the exterior ' walls and the roof. This exterior lighting would be typical of other churches or similar buildings, and would fully comply with the lighting standards set forth in Article 6, Section 17, of the Zoning Ordinance. These standards are: 6-17-1 Glare, whether direct or reflected, as differentiated from general illumination shall not be visible beyond the ' limits of the site from which it originates . 6-17-2 No light which is flashing, revolving or otherwise ' resembles a traffic control signal shall be allowed in any area where it could create a hazard for passing vehicular traffic . i LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY 8C LINDGREN, LTD. Planning Commission March 1, 1989 Page 3 6-17-3 Lighting fixtures should be of a design consistent with fixtures used in surrounding developments and municipal street lighting. Shielded high pressure sodium fixtures are required. Korsunsky, Krank, Erickson will prepare a building illumination plan and identify proposed light locations and illumination levels to document compliance with these ordinance standards . 1 Condition No. 7: The nose of the proposed island cannot extend into the right-of-way of CSAH-17 . Response: Barton-Aschman has so revised the plans in compliance with this condition. Condition No. 8: A plan must be presented showing the proposed road grade and cross section. The plan should identify the need for the large radius on the proposed entrance. It is the preference of the county to have the radius less than 50 ' . Response: Barton-Aschman has revised the plans to reduce the radius on the proposed entrance to 50 ' . Detailed road grade and cross sections will be submitted to the City and County for construction permits . Condition No. 9: Turn lanes will be required on the entrance. The I entrance application should include the turn lane design details . Response: 1 Turn lanes are to be provided. The plans will specify the dimensions of these turn lanes . Specific design details will be submitted to the City and the County for construction permits . Condition No. 10: The applicant be required to submit construction plans and specifications for the installation of the watermain and sanitary sewer lines for approval by the City Engineer. Response: , The utilities plan is revised to incorporate the City Engineer's recommendation that the sanitary sewer line be sized at 8 inches . Detailed construction plans and specifications, including watermain sizing calculations, will be submitted to the City and County for construction permits . 1 LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY 8c LINDGREN, LTD. Planning Commission ' March 1, 1989 Page 4 Condition No. 11: Run-off calculations be submitted to confirm that the pre-development run-off rate criteria of the watershed district and the city are being complied with. Response: Run-off calculations confirm that the criteria and requirements of the Watershed District and the City will be complied with. Run- off calculations and detailed plans to achieve compliance will be submitted to the Watershed District and the City when the ' Watershed District permit is applied for. Condition No. 12: A drainage easement be dedicated to the city in accordance with the attached legal description and sketch to accommodate stormwater run-off. Response: A drainage easement sufficient to accommodate all drainage from the Eckankar property will be dedicated to the City, if required. ' Excess drainage easements, to drain surrounding properties, will be dedicated to the City pursuant to appropriate compensation. Condition No. 13 : Necessary permits from the County and Watershed District are obtained and complied with prior to construction. Response: Necessary permits will be obtained prior to construction. ' Condition No. 14: A roadway cross-section shall be submitted for review along with a skimmer detail plan as discussed in the EAW for the parking lot area. ' Response: A typical skimmer design detail has been added to the plans . This design will be revised as necessary to meet City requirements for construction permit. Detailed roadway cross-section and skimmer plans will be submitted for a construction permit. ' Condition No. 15: The applicant shall use type III erosion control throughout the site. ' Response: The plans have been revised to specify type III erosion control. I 1 LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY 8c LINDGREN, LTD. I Planning Commission March 1, 1989 Page 5 In addition to the 15 conditions set forth in the Planning staff report, the City Fire Inspector recommended six additional requirements . Each of these requirements will be complied with, and the plans have been revised to specifically detail compliance with all six requirements . ' The plans incorporating the staff and Fire Inspector recommendations have been prepared for review. Any further changes recommended by the Planning Commission, in accordance with Chanhassen ordinance, will also be incorporated in the plans . The City staff will have all of the responses to its recommendations, as shown on plans, to verify compliance with the staff's conditions and recommendations . Any variance can be reported to the City Council. Very truly yours, I Robert L. Ho man, for 1 LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, Ltd. kw , I I I 1 I PKB:DW3s JAMES P LARKIN LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, LTD. MICHAEL T McKIM ROBERT L.HOFFMAN DAVID J.PEAT I JACK F DALY ) ) ) O.KENNETH LINOGREN CHARLES H.WEAVER WENDELL R.ANDERSON ATTORNEYS AT LAW HERMAN L.TALLE GERALD H. FRIEDELL VINCENT G.ELLA ALLAN E.MULLIGAN ANDREW J,MITCHELL ROBERT J.HENNESSEY JOHN A.COTTER+ JAMES C.ERICKSON BEATRICE A.ROTHWEILER EDWARD J.DRISCOLL 1500 NORTHWESTERN FINANCIAL CENTER 2000 PIPER JA FF RAY TOWER PAUL B.PLU NKETT I JAMES P MILEY ALAN L.KILDOW 7900 XERXES AVENUE SOUTH KATHLEEN M.PICOTTE NEWMAN GENE N.FULLER 222 SOUTH NINTH STREET DAVID C.SELLERGR EN BLOOMINGTON,MINNESOTA 55431 EIS FRANCIS E.GISCRSON RICHARD J.KEENAN MINNEAPOLIS,MINNESOTA 55402 JOHN D.FULLMER TELEPHONE 16121 835-3800 TELEPHONE(6121 338-6610 AMY CDARR IGRADVRN HICKS• ROBERT E.BOYLE TRANS 1.HARVEY CATHERINE BARNETT WILSON' CHARLES S.MODELL FAX 16121 896-3333 FAX 16121 336-9760 JEFFREY C.ANDERSON I CHRISTOPHER J.DIETZEN DANIEL L.BOWLES JOHN R.BEATTIE TODD M.VLATKOVICH LINDA H.FISHER TIMOTHY J. KORST S THOMAS P STOLT MAN NORTH SUBURBAN OFFICE GREGORY E,KORSTAD STEVEN G.LEVIN LISA A.GRAY FORREST D.NOWLIN 8990 SPRINGBROOK DRIVE,SUITE 250 GARY A.RENNEKE MICHAEL C.JACKMAN THOMAS H.WEAVER JOHN E.DIEHL COON RAPIDS,MINNESOTA 55433 SHANNON K.McCAMBRIDGE I JON S.SWIERZEWSKI MICHAEL S.COHEN THOMAS J.FLYNN JAMES P OUINN TELEPHONE(6121786-7117 DENISE M.NORTON GARY A.VAN CLEVE TODD I.FREEMAN FAX (6121 786-6711 MICHAEL B.BRAMAN STEPHEN B.SOLOMON JOSEPH W,DICKER PETER K.BECK JACQUELINE F.DIETZ JEROME H.KAHNKE GAYLEN L.KNACK SHERRILL OMAN KURETICH Reply to Bloomington RODNEY D IVES I GERALD L.SECS JOHN B. BECK JULIE A.WRASE 1ST CHRISTOPHER J.MAR RISTHAL OAYLE N B.HUMPHREY,B.HU SHARON L.BRENNA MPH REY,JR• TIMOTHY JA LITZAU KEA E JON R.NORBERG WILLIAM C.GRIFFITH THEODORE A.MONDALE I JOHN J.STEFFENHAGEN DANIEL W.VOSS March 1, 1989 OF COUNSEL JOSEPH GITIS Mr. Steve Hansen, Planner RICHARD A.NOR DBYE I .ALSO ADMITTED IN City of Chanhassen WISCONSIN 690 Coulter Drive Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 IRe: Eckankar Church - Statements IDear Steve: Enclosed for your information are copies of seven statements which will be introduced at the Planning Commission hearing tonight I regarding the Eckankar Church. These statements will be presented to the Planning Commission for inclusion in the record and summarized during Bob Hoffman's presentation. Each of the people making these I statements will be available to answer questions from the Planning Commission. S • •cerel , I IP I Peter K. Beck, for LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY & LINDGREN, Ltd. I kw I I IPKB:DWBs I mil 1 STATEMENT OF RONALD KRANK , TO THE CITY OF CHANHASSEN REGARDING THE ECKANKAR CHURCH This statement is submitted by Ronald Krank, a principal in the firm of Korsunsky Krank Erickson Architects, Inc. , 300 First Avenue North, Minneapolis . My education and ' Y qualifications are as follows : 1959 graduate of University of Minnesota: Institute of , Technology, School of Architecture. Post graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin Extension Division. Courses taken in Business Management, Promotional Concepts , and Techniques , Energy Conservation Building Design, and Design of Multi-Family Housing. ' My experience is as follows : Co-founder in 1968, and currently CEO and President of 1 Korsunsky Krank Erickson Architects, Inc. , which is a nationally-recognized 75-person firm with professional services delivered through the three divisions of Planning/Architecture, Space Planning/Interior Design, and Inspection Services . Licensed to practice architecture for 26 years . , Principal in charge of approximately 1 , 000 building projects throughout the country. My experience in the City of Chanhassen is as follows : Korsunsky Krank Erickson Architects, Inc. , were architects I for the following buildings : 1 . The Press . ' 2 . Instant Web, Inc. 3 . Redmond Products, Inc . ' My experience in the design of churches is as follows : Principal in charge of 10 year Mount Olivet Lutheran Church Building Program including: Retreat and conference center in Lakeville, Minnesota. _ I i . . - Recreational facility at Rolling Acres Home for handicapped/retarded young adults . - Church/classroom addition and remodeling. Lay leader in charge of Temple Israel' s recent $4, 000, 000 addition and remodeling program. KKE has been retained to provide architectural services for ' the Eckankar Church. We have designed the Church for Eckankar and have prepared plans for the Church, including the floor plans and elevations submitted to the City of Chanhassen. ' The Eckankar Church will have approximately 48, 000 square feet of floor area; approximately 18 , 700 square feet on the lower level and 29 , 300 square feet on the main or first floor. ' The lower level will encompass a fellowship hall, kitchen, employee lounge, youth/children' s activity area, caretaker' s apartment, garage, and miscellaneous storage and mechanical areas . The main floor will house the main worship area which will include an 800 seat sanctuary with alter, chapel, foyer and prefunction areas, classroom facilities, a religious reading room, and miscellaneous small rooms for robing, ' bride/groom preparation, and coat storage. The main floor will also house the offices of religious staff and administrative space (e.g. , conference room, bookkeeping, mailroom, etc. ) . ' The church will not house any publishing facilities , any type of theological seminary, nor will it have a daycare center. The church building will be built of high quality materials including natural Minnesota limestone . It will have a nonreflective (matte finish) , stepped hip roof to blend compatibly with the surrounding topography and vegetation. ' The Eckankar Church has been designed to fully comply with all of the requirements of the Chanhassen Zoning Ordinance and to be consistent with other churches in the City of Chanhassen and the metropolitan area. The church building fully complies with all of the requirements of the zoning ordinance, including the district regulations set forth in Article V of the Zoning ' Ordinance ( including the special standards for churches in residential districts set forth in Section 5-9-1 (7 ) of the Zoning Ordinance) ; the supplementary regulations set forth in ' Article VI of the Zoning Ordinance; and the off-street parking and loading regulations set forth in Article VII of the Zoning Ordinance. ' In addition to designing a building in full compliance with the City of Chanhassen Zoning Ordinance, my firm also did a study of 25 churches in the City of Chanhassen and the ' metropolitan area . The results of this study were as follows : The Eckankar Church was designed to be similar to and consistent with the churches analyzed in the study with respect - ' to programmatic and operational characteristics . 1 2 . Final construction plans for the Eckankar Church will I comply fully with the applicable sections of the Uniform Building Code. In my opinion, based on my experience and my detailed knowledge of the plans for the Eckankar Church: 1 . The Eckankar Church will not be detrimental to or ' endanger the public health, safety, comfort, convenience, or general welfare of the neighborhood or the City, because of extensive open space buffering and a well organized interior site design as well as the church' s use, which is traditionally regarded as compatible with and complementary to the surrounding residential and park uses . ' 2 . The Eckankar Church will be compatible in appearance with the character of the general vicinity and will not change the essential character of the area, because it has been planned to be well integrated with its existing natural setting and .due to the large open areas and setbacks which have been retained. The church will join existing churches both within and surrounding Chanhassen as a familiar and recognizable community landmark. 3 . The Eckankar Church will not be hazardous or disturbing to existing or planned neighboring uses, because all parking and service needs are planned to be buffered and are internal to the site. The use of the church will be similar to and consistent with that of existing churches in the community. 4 . The Eckankar Church will not involve uses , activities , processes , materials, equipment, or conditions of operations that would be detrimental to any persons, property, or the general welfare because of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glares, odors, rodents, or trash. 5 . The Eckankar Church will not result in the destruction, loss , or damage to solar access, natural, scenic, or historic features of major significance, because site feature impact has been minimized through planning. Undisturbed areas include mature Oak and Maple forests adjoining the city park and substantial setbacks have been provided to surrounding uses . 6 . The Eckankar Church will be aesthetically compatible with the area because the predominantly natural image of the site has been retained. The building design is evocative of a spiritual home which blends with and rises out of its rolling natural setting. Religious structures have been traditionally compatible with residential districts . 7 . The Eckankar Church will not depreciate the surrounding property values because of its compatible use and high standards or construction and design. 3 . 1 8 . The Eckankar Church fully complies with all of the requirements and standards of the Chanhassen Zoning Ord . mance. 1 Subscribed and sw rn before me this s of , 1989 . PETER K.BECK 1 . eVi. NOTARY PUBLIC•MINNESOTA HENNEPIN COUNTY My Comm.Exp.Dec.25,1992 04otary Public • 1 1 1 - 1 1 i 1 1 1 1 1 1 4 . PKB :AV2 STATEMENT OF DANIEL LUTENEGGER TO THE CITY OF CHANHASSEN REGARDING NOISE, AIR QUALITY AND WETLAND IMPACTS OF THE ECKANKAR CHURCH This statement is submitted by Daniel Lutenegger, a Principal Associate with the firm of Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. , 111 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota. My education and qualifications are as follows : B. S . Biological Sciences, Rockhurst College, Kansas City, Missouri . Member, Air Pollution Control Association (APCA) . Additional studies in Environmental Sciences at the University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois . I have 14 years of experience in the analysis of environmental impacts of public and private development actions as an employee of Barton-Aschman Associates , Inc . I direct the environmental analysis activities of Barton-Aschman' s Upper Midwest Office. My specific areas of experience are in air quality, noise and wetland impacts . Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc . , has been retained to , provide planning, engineering, landscaping and other services for the Eckankar Church. In connection with this representation, Barton-Aschman has prepared an Environmental Assessment Worksheet, including studies on the potential air pollution, noise and wetland impacts of the Eckankar Church. The air pollution and dust analysis prepared by Barton- ' Aschman is set forth on pages 21-24 of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet submitted to the City of Chanhassen, which is hereby incorporated by reference in this statement. The conclusion of the air quality study is that the Eckankar Church does not have the potential to cause a violation of state or national ambient air quality standards (either one hour or eight hour) . The Eckankar Church will have an insignificant impact on carbon monoxide concentrations in the area. Background traffic (traffic not related to the Eckankar Church) contributes 99 percent of the weekday p.m. peak hour carbon monoxide in the area and 97 percent of the Sunday peak hour carbon monoxide concentration. . For comparison purposes, an alternative housing land use was analyzed. It was assumed that 500 units of housing would be developed. This is approximately half of what would be allowed with the current zoning. This analysis indicated that the carbon monoxide emissions would be approximately 10 percent higher with the housing alternative during the weekday p.m. ' i peak hour than with th the Eckankar Church. The Sunday peak hour emissions would be similar to those with the Church. I There will be no significant impact on carbon monoxide concentrations as a result of the Eckankar Church. Ambient air I quality standards will be met at the completion of construction. Particulate emissions will temporarily increase during construction due to the generation of fugitive dust, but I will decrease following establishment of prairie in the existing crop land areas . I Barton-Aschman also performed a noise analysis of the Eckankar Church, which is set forth at pages 24-28 of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet submitted to the City, which is hereby incorporated by reference in this statement. The I Conclusion of the noise analysis is that the Eckankar Church will cause imperceptible increases in noise levels . Minnesota Pollution Control Agency standards will be met after the I completion of the project. Preparation of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet also included the inventory and classification of all wetlands on the property and analysis of I the impacts of the church on these wetlands . This analysis is set forth at pages 12-14 of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet, which is hereby incorporated by reference in this statement . The Church has been designed to avoid wetland I impacts to the maximum extent practicable, and will have no direct impacts on any protected wetland. I The Environmental Assessment Worksheet submitted to the City of Chanhassen was prepared primarily by Barton-Aschman Associates , Inc . Based upon the subject matter of the I Environmental Assessment Worksheet and our studies to respond to the questions, it is our conclusion that the Eckankar Church: 1 . ) Will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, comfort, convenience, or general welfare of the neighborhood or the City. I2 . ) Will not create an environmental hazard to existing or planned neighboring uses . I3 . ) Will not create excessive requirements for public facilities and services including streets , police and fire protection, drainage structures , refuse disposal , water and Isewer systems , and schools . 4 . ) Will not involve processes , materials, equipment , and I conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons , property, or the general welfare because of excessive I I 2 . IN 1 production of traffic, noise, smoke, fu es glare, odors rodents, or trash. 1 D.ni-1 J. • _ ' egg-r /A/ , Subscribed and sw•rn to before me this (S d.y of , 1989 . NOTARY PUBLIM;.+N=50TH I - i ,11 HENNEPIN COUNTY i sue. .� My Comm.Exp.Dec.25,1992 Notary Public 1 t 1 1 3 . PKB:AV4 rt STATEMENT OF BARRY WARNER TO THE CITY OF CHANHASSEN REGARDING COMPLIANCE OF THE ECKANKAR CHURCH WITH THE CITY' S LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS This statement is submitted by Barry Warner, a principal with the firm of Barton-Aschman Associates , Inc . , 111 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota. ' My education and qualifications are as follows : Bachelor in Landscape Architecture, University of ' Minnesota, Institute of Technology. Additional studies at the Wright-Ingraham Institute, ' Colorado Springs, Colorado. Registered Landscape Architect in the State of Minnesota. ' Chapter President and Member of American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) . ' My experience is as follows : I have 12 years of experience as a landscape architect, ' three with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and nine years with Barton Aschman Associates , Inc . I direct planning and landscape architecture activities , in Barton Aschman ' s Upper Midwest office and possess specific skills ' in site planning and design, urban design, and park and recreation planning and design. ' Barton-Aschman Associates , Inc . , has been retained to provide planning, engineering, landscaping and other services for the Eckankar Church. In connection with this ' representation, Barton-Aschman has prepared the landscape plan for the Eckankar Church which has been submitted to the City. The objective of the landscape plan is to compliment the natural site conditions while adhering to the requirements of ' the Chanhassen Zoning Ordinance . The landscape plan is discussed on page 8 of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) submitted to the City and is detailed on the landscape ' plan submitted to the City, both of which are incorporated by reference in this statement . ' To the best of my knowledge, the landscape plan submitted to the City of Chanhassen complies in all respects with the requirements of the Chanhassen Zoning Ordinance, including the ' requirements of Article VIII regarding landscaping and tree removal regulations; and is consistent with the objectives and I policies of the City' s Comprehensive Plan with respect to II landscaping. The Eckankar Church will not result in the destruction, I loss, or damage of solar access, natural , scenic, or historic features of major significance. The physical site improvements which I have planned or II designed for the Eckankar Church will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, comfort, convenience, or II general welfare of the neighborhood or the City. The Eckankar Church site improvements will be compatible in II appearance with the character of the general vicinity, will not change the essential character of the area, and will be aesthetically compatible with the area. 0— .6.. k T i -,- earrr J1 Warner II kl Subscribed and sworn to before me I this J . of PETERK aEac ► 19 8 9 . Coe 1, note PUBLIC-MI NNESOTA 4 / HENNEPIN COUNTY Its',;,_;: *Comm.Expdem 25,1392 Notary Public II II II II II II I II 2 . II PKB :AV7 or IISTATEMENT OF CHARLES RICKART TO I THE CITY OF CHANHASSEN REGARDING TRAFFIC IMPACTS OF THE ECKANKAR CHURCH II This statement is submitted by Charles Rickart, an I Associate with the firm of Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. , 111 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 . My education and qualifications are as follows : II received a B. S. Degree in Transportation Engineering from North Dakota State University (NDSU) in 1983 . I am an I associate member of the Institute of Transportation Engineers ( ITE ) . II have been employed in the Transportation Engineering field for six years . I have been a Traffic Engineer with Barton-Aschman Associates since 1985 . Prior to that, I worked as a Transportation Engineer/Planner with the St. Cloud Area IPlanning Organization. Barton-Aschman Associates , Inc. has been retained to I provide planning, engineering, landscaping, and other services for the Eckankar Church. In connection with this representation, I have prepared an analysis of the traffic Iimpacts of the Eckankar Church. The church will be served by an east-west two-lane access drive which will intersect CSAH 17 in line with existing Saddle I Brook Curve . At this intersection, the entrance drive will be divided by a raised landscape median to produce an aesthetically pleasing entrance. About 200 feet west of the I intersection, the median will end and the drive will be undivided. The access drive will follow the north edge of the parking area to the central pedestrian drop off area . Service I vehicles will utilize access drives on the northeast and southwest sides of the church building. The geometrics of access and service drives have been developed to allow ample space for emergency vehicle access . ISurface parking will be provided for 290 vehicles . This is in excess of the requirements of Section 7-1-10 ( 5 ) of the I Zoning Ordinance, which requires church facilities to have at least one space per three seats and one space per classroom. All parking spaces will be nine feet by twenty feet in Icompliance with Chanhassen Zoning Ordinance Section 7-1-1 . The parking area has been designed in a radial fashion to enhance traffic circulation to and from the access drive. The parking facility will be screened by berms , landscape plantings , and ME i existing topography as required by Article VIII of the Zoning Ordinance. g The roadways affected by the church will be CSAH 17 , West 78th Street, and TH 5 . Access to the site will be via CSAH 17, which is identified in the Chanhassen Zoning Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan as a collector roadway. Access is provided so that persons approaching and exiting the Church will not utilize residential streets unless they are actually residents in that specific area. The traffic analysis prepared for the Eckankar Church is set forth at pages 31-36 of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet submitted to the City of Chanhassen, which is hereby incorporated by reference in this statement. The conclusion of the traffic analysis is that all intersections will operate at the same level of service ( level of service B or better) before and after the church is built. The church will not have an impact on the level of service at any intersection. In fact, traffic impacts of the Eckankar Church will be all but imperceptible. The Eckankar Church will be adequately served by and will not create excessive requirements for public streets or the public street system. The church will have vehicle approaches which will not create traffic congestion or interfere with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares . For comparison purposes an alternative housing land use was analyzed. It was assumed that 500 units of housing would be developed. This is approximately half of what would be allowed under the current zoning of the Eckankar property. This analysis indicates that there would be a 500 percent increase in the weekday p.m. peak hour trips over trips generated by the Eckankar Church. Sunday trip generation would be approximately the same. , The Eckankar Church will have no adverse traffic impacts on surrounding streets or surrounding properties; and will have substantially less impact on surrounding streets and intersections than residential development of the Eckankar property. The Eckankar Church complies in all respects with the requirements of the Chanhassen Code of Ordinances with respect to traffic issues; and is consistent with the objectives and policies of the City' s Comprehensive Plan with respect to traffic . The traffic impacts created by the Eckankar Church will not , be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, comfort, convenience, or general welfare of the neighborhood or 2 . 1 the City, or will it be hazardous or disturbing to existing Y g g or planned neighboring uses . Charles Rickart ' Subscribed and sworn to before me this day of , 1989 . Notary Public ' PKB :AV3 3 . 1 STATEMENT OF KENNETH HORNS I TO THE CITY OF CHANHASSEN REGARDING I DRAINAGE, EROSION CONTROL, AND UTILITIES FOR THE ECKANKAR CHURCH I This statement is submitted by Kenneth Horns , a Senior Associate, with the firm of Barton-Aschman Associates , Inc. , II 111 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota. My education and qualifications are as follows : Bachelor of Civil Engineering, University of Minnesota. II Professional Engineer, State of Minnesota. I have eight years of diversified civil engineering II experience on a variety of public and private improvement projects . Projects include roadways , parking areas, storm II sewer systems, sanitary sewers , watermains, and site grading. Barton-Aschman & Associates , Inc . , has been retained to provide planning, engineering, landscaping, and other services I for the Eckankar Church. In connection with this representation, Barton-Aschman has prepared an Environmental Assessment Worksheet for the Eckankar Church, including a I preliminary design of erosion and sedimentation control measures and the storm water drainage system for the Eckankar Church. The erosion and sedimentation control measures and II storm water drainage system are described on pages 14-18 of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet and detailed in the grading, drainage, and erosion control plans submitted to the City, which are hereby incorporated by reference in this statement. II Final design of the erosion and sedimentation control measures and the stormwater drainage system will comply with the City of Chanhassen, Riley Purgatory Creek Watershed District, Minnesota II Department of Natural Resources, and U. S . Army Corp of Engineers Standards and Requirements . Barton-Aschman has also prepared a preliminary utilities I and lighting plan for the Eckankar Church, which has been submitted to the City; and has analyzed the impact of the Church on public utilities , including municipal sewer and story II sewer. These analyses are set forth in the Environmental Assessment worksheet submitted to the City of Chanhassen, which is hereby incorporated by reference in this statement . The I conclusion of these studies is that the Eckankar Church as proposed in the plans submitted to the City of Chanhassen will be adequately served by and will not create excessive II requirements for public utilities and services including streets , police and fire protection, drainage structures , refuse disposal , water and sewer systems, and schools . I so II ' The Eckankar Church will be adequately served by, and will not create excessive requirements for, public facilities and ' services , including drainage structures , and will have no adverse impacts on any protected wetland or wetland areas . The Eckankar Church will meet all of the requirements of ' the City' s Zoning Ordinance and other City Code requirements with respect to wetlands, erosion and sedimentation control, stormwater drainage, and utilities; and is consistent with the ' objectives and policies of the City' s Comprehensive Plan with respect to wetlands , erosion and sedimentation control , stormwater drainage, and utilities . 46W--04 enneth Ho ns Subscribed and sworn to before me this day of , 1989 . Notary Public I 1 1 PKB :AVS 2 . 11 STATEMENT OF JOHN SHARDLOW REGARDING THE ECRANKAR CHURCH This statement is submitted by John Shardlow, principal planner in the consulting firm of Dahlgren, Shardlow & Uban, 300 First Avenue North, Suite 210, Minneapolis, Minnesota. My education and qualifications are as follows: , I have a B.S. and a Bachelors of Landscape Architecture Degree, Specializing in Urban Design from the University of Minnesota. I am a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) , the Professional Institute of the American Planning Association. My experience as a planner is as follows: I have worked as a planning consultant for the past eleven ' years. That experience has been divided between public and private sector clients. I became a partner in the firm four years ago and have served as the Director of Planning since that time. Prior to joining DSU, Inc. , I worked with the Environmental Planning Department of the Metropolitan Council. My experience in the preparation and analysis of zoning ordinances and comprehensive plans is as follows: Dahlgren, Shardlow and Uban, Inc. serves as consulting 1 planners to many communities in the State of Minnesota, both within and outside the Metropolitan Area. In the majority of these cases, we have prepared the original comprehensive plans for the communities, along with the zoning ordinances and other official controls that have implemented them. We have prepared virtually every amendment and revision that has occurred in these plans since their original adoption. I have personally been actively involved in the majority of these community planning projects. I have also been involved in numerous special projects that have involved comprehensive plans and zoning amendments for communities for which we do not normally provide planning services. In addition to these professional activities, I also lecture at the Hubert Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs on Community Planning and Zoning Issues. I am also a member of the faculty of the Government Training Service and present a Ulf I I Page 3 1) The Eckankar Church complies h co plie with all of the requirements and standards of the Chanhassen Zoning Ordinance, ' including: The district regulations set forth in Article V of ' the Zoning Ordinance, including the special standards set forth in Section 5-9-1 (7) of the Zoning Ordinance for churches in residential ' districts; The supplementary regulations set forth in Article VI of the Zoning Ordinance, including the height ' regulations set forth in Section 6-10-2 (2) ; The off-street parking and loading regulations set forth in Article VIII of the Zoning Ordinance; The sign regulations set forth in Article IX of the Zoning Ordinance. 2) The Eckankar Church will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, comfort, convenience, or ' general welfare of the neighborhood or the City because the proposed use of the property is substantially less intensive than many uses provided for within the Comprehensive Plan and ' Zoning Ordinance. The proposed development plan for the subject property substantially exceeds the City's standards for setbacks, lot coverage, and other performance standards. This ' proposal promises to preserve many of the natural resources that are currently found on the property and maintain its natural character. These factors will combine to provide an adequate buffer between the proposed use and the surrounding ' residential neighborhood. 3) The Eckankar Church is consistent with the ' objectives of the City's Zoning Ordinance because it meets or exceeds all of the performance standards and requirements of the Zoning Ordinance, including the specific and general ' standards for churches and conditional uses. 4) The Eckankar Church is consistent with the objectives of the City's Comprehensive Plan because although ' the Comprehensive Plan does not specifically address Churches, this development proposal complies with all of the policies set forth in the Comprehensive Plan which are applicable to such an ' application. The City of Chanhassen's primary community development goal is set forth on page GP-1. It reads as follows: I I I Page 4 Goal - Chanhassen is a high amenity residential g Y community which, although located on the fringe of the Metropolitan Area, contains large amounts of I farm land, open space, natural tree cover, and variable topography. It is the City's overall goal that these qualities should be maximized and I preserved as the City develops in the future. Because the Eckankar Church development program on the subject property involves such a low intensity use, it provides the I opportunity to preserve significant open space, natural tree cover, and avoid significant disruption of the natural character of its current topography. The proposed application I is also consistent with the Natural Resources goals and policies set forth on pages GP-I through GP-4 and is consistent with the pertinent Land Use and Transportation goals set forth I in the Goals and Policies section of the Comprehensive Plan. 5) The Eckankar Church is consistent with the City of Chanhassen Land Use Map, which currently designates the II property on which the Church will be located as "campus business" . The campus business designation, as described in the Comprehensive Plan includes a church facility such as this. In my opinion, the Metropolitan Council would not require or encourage a Comprehensive Plan amendment for the Eckankar Church proposal. The Church would also be consistent with the I City's Land Use map, if the land on which it will be located was guided residential, because under the Zoning Ordinance, and therefore the Comprehensive Plan, churches are allowed as conditional uses in residential areas. In my opinion, the I Metropolitan Council would also not require a comprehensive plan amendment if the property were currently guided for residential use. I 6) The Eckankar Church is compatible in appearance with the character of the general vicinity and will not change the I essential character of the area because the development proposal represents a very low intensity use on the site. The structure is attractively designed with high quality building materials, and the entire site development plans have been II prepared with an obvious commitment to the protection and enhancement of community aesthetics. The structure is set back a very long way from all adjacent properties, and the plans II call for a very significant retention of the natural characteristics of the site. 7) The Eckankar Church will be not hazardous or 1 disturbing to existing planned neighboring uses because of the reasons set forth under Number 6 above. 1 1 Er 1 1 Page 5 8) The Eckankar Church will be adequately served by and ' will not create excessive requirements for public facilities and services including streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, water and sewer systems, and schools, because the proposed use of this property will ' create substantially less need for such public facilities and services than if it were developed either residentially, pursuant to its present zoning, or in virtually any pattern of ' office or light industrial use pursuant to its current Comprehensive Plan designation. The applicants have agreed to pay for the costs associated with any necessary public ' improvements that are needed to serve their development. 9) The Eckankar Church will not be detrimental to the economic welfare of the community, because although Eckankar is t a tax exempt religious organization, the Church will generate very little demand for public services and the conditional use permit process provides the City with the mechanism to require ' the full payment of any costs reasonably associated with providing services to the proposed Church facility. 10) The Eckankar Church will not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, equipment, and conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the general welfare because of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, odors, rodents, or trash. 11) The Eckankar Church will not create traffic congestion or interfere with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares, because it has been designed to provide access pursuant to the City's requirements. The traffic analysis ' provided by the Barton-Aschman firm indicates that there shall be no traffic congestion or interference with traffic movements within the City of Chanhassen caused by the Eckankar Church. ' 12) The Eckankar Church will not result in the destruction, loss, or damage of solar access, natural, scenic, or historical features of major significance, because the ' limited development program for the site allows for significantly greater environmental sensitivity than would be possible in many other development scenarios, including ' permitted uses within the City's Zoning Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan. The extremely low percentage of site coverage and very large setbacks to both parking and building from all surrounding property lines, combine to provide the opportunity to preserve and protect the existing natural character of the site. 1 1 I Page 6 13) The Eckankar Church will be aesthetically compatible with the area, because the proposal involves the siting of a handsome structure with high quality building materials within an overall site plan that has been carefully prepared to include significant landscaping and with attention to other community aesthetic issues. Once again, one of the key advantages offered by the Eckankar Church proposal is that it involves such a low intensity use of the subject property that is provides the opportunity to preserve and protect large portions of the site and their natural condition. This is not only good news for surrounding property owners, but it is one of the elements of the proposal which makes is fundamentally consistent with Chanhassen's primary Community Development Goal. 14) The Eckankar Church will not depreciate surrounding I property values, because the generous amount of open space, proposed setbacks, and the landscape buffering that has been integrated into the site development concept, all combine to create a use that is fully compatible with all of the adjacent properties. There is, in my opinion, simply no rational basis for concluding that this development will have any deleterious impact on adjacent property values. John Shardlow Subscribed and sworn to before me this 5-tf)day of2eLaiLili4, 1989. .�... DIANELJOHNSON ARY PU3UC-IOTA h %'_ Mly HENNEPIN COUNTY f l? . c .Js lon eons June to I O -- ,Notar Public I 1 is I • STATEMENT OF ALAN P. LEIRNESS TO ' THE CITY OF CHANHASSEN REGARDING IMPACTS OF THE ECKANKAR CHURCH ON SURROUNDING PROPERTY VALUES This statement is submitted by Alan P. Leirness, a vice ' president of the firm of Robert Boblett Associates, Inc. , 700 Northstar East, 608 Second Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota. My education and qualifications are as follows : I have been a professional real estate appraiser and ' consultant in the Minneapolis/St .Paul Metropolitan Area since 1976 and hold the MAI designation from the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers . I also hold a geography degree from ' North Dakota State University. I have attended numerous special real estate valuation related courses and seminars and have taught real estate appraisal courses . I have over twelve ' years experience appraising all types of real estate located in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area . I have appraised real estate in Chanhassen over an ' approximately eight year period, primarily commercial/industrial property including the former CPT Building and the Lyman Lumber plant . I have also appraised ' numerous properties in the Chanhassen/Jonathan area as well as residential properties along Lake Minnetonka in Carver County. I have researched numerous property sales in Chanhassen to use as land comparables for my Chaska/Jonathan area appraisals . I have been retained to review the plans and other materials submitted to the City of Chanhassen for the Eckankar ' Church and to prepare an independent analysis of the impacts , if any, of the Eckankar Church on surrounding property values . My analysis is contained in my letter of February 27 , 1989 , to ' Mr . Robert L. Hoffman and Peter K. Beck, which letter is hereby incorporated by reference in this statement. ' Based on my appraisal analysis and the plans and specifications for the Eckankar Church, it is my conclusion that the Eckankar Church to be located in Chanhassen will not depreciate surrounding property values . z ;/ • /> Alan P . - ness , MAI Subscribed and sworn to before me this /5 day of , 1989 . r J PETERKBECK ll �I� NOTARY PUBLIC•MINNESOTA ' u HENNEPIN COUNTY My Comm.Exp.Dec.15,1992 Notary Public ' PKB :AV1 1 $1 . Qobort 1 ot� ctt Aociate , Inc. Real E6tate Consulting 6 rvices Divoton 1 February 27, 1989 Messrs. Robert L. Hoffman and 1 Peter K. Beck Larkin, Hoffman, Daly & Lindgren, Ltd. 1500 Northwestern Financial Center 7900 Xerxes Avenue South Bloomington, Minnesota 55431 1 In Re: Eckankar Church Chanhassen, Minnesota Gentlemen: In response to your recent request, I have reviewed a number of documents that were provided to me, as well as performed several analyses on property owned/occupied by Eckankar Church, as well as in- spected and analyzed several other church properties in Chanhassen in an attempt to determine if there is a negative impact on property values by church locations such as that proposed by Eckankar for their property at the northwest quadrant of Minnesota Highway 5 and Carver County 17 in Chanhassen, Minnesota. The purpose of my analysis is to address an issue which is raised in the Chanhassen zoning ordinance specifically relating to the issuance of conditional use permits for churches to be located in residential dis- tricts. Section 3-2-3 of the zoning ordinance for the City of Chanhassen establishes several general standards for the issuance of conditional use permits for churches to be located in residentially zoned areas. One of these conditions is "will not depreciate surrounding property values. " The purpose of my analysis is to address this issue directly by analyz- ing if there have been any discernible negative impacts on property val- ues adjacent to other churches located in the City of Chanhassen, as well as to specifically address any negative impacts on property values that might have become evident at other locations occupied by the Eckankar Church group. Valuation n.twoik ant. 0 Ncrlhtst.ir East• 008 2nd Avenue. Guth• Minne;jF\-,lm ilinne eta 55402 • Phone. (01_2) 333-o515 Fax(612) 338-2216 1 ii Qobert boblett I A& ociate,s, Inc. iiMessrs. Robert L. Hoffman and Peter K. Beck I February 27, 1989 Page Two II I have also analyzed the issue of church proximity in relationship to II residentially zoned districts from a general valuation standpoint for purposes of determining if there are any previously completed published studies which address this specific issue. IMy analysis has consisted of a review of many documents. Significant among these documents are: 1. The present zoning code of the City of Chanhassen and zoning map. I 2. The City of Chanhassen Land Use Plan for the year 2000, as well as the Comprehensive Land Plan for the City. _ I 3. Various site and building plans of the proposed Eckankar Church prepared by Korsunsky, Krank Erickson Architects and Barton/Aschman Associates IIPlanners. 4. The Environmental Assessment worksheet on the I Eckankar Church prepared for the City of Chanhassen by Barton-Aschman Associates and Larkin, Hoffman, Daly & Lindgren in January, 1989. II _ 5. - A summary of the description of the Eckankar Church contained in the Second Edition of a book entitled _"Religious and Spiritual Groups in Modern America" published by Prentice Hall. ,_6.- Application for the Conditional Use Permit by I .. - Eckankar to the City of Chanhassen. 7. A review of City Council and Planning Commission _- -- ---proceedings regarding the West Side Baptist Church I - proposed for location at 6801 Hazeltine Boulevard in Chanhassen. ' . 8. A review of the Planning and City Council documenta- tion regarding the application for the Family of Christ Lutheran Church at 251 Lake Drive East in Chanhassen. II II El Robert boblett Amociatec5, Inc. ' Messrs. Robert L. Hoffman and ' Peter K. Beck February 27, 1989 Page Three 9. A review of miscellaneous documents, memoranda and letters relating to the proposed Eckankar Church and application for Conditional Use Permit. In addition to a review of these written documents, my analysis has con- sisted of the following elements: 1. An inspection of the site proposed for development with the Eckankar Church. 2. A drive-through inspection of the immediate sur- rounding properties abutting the approximately 174 acre tract of land owned by the Eckankar Church. 1 3. A general inspection of lands and properties adja- cent to other churches located in the City of Chanhassen. 4. A neighborhood inspection and analysis of properties abutting the present Eckankar Administrative Offices at 3001 Louisiana Avenue North in New Hope, Minne- sota. 5. A general neighborhood inspection and review of ' properties adjacent to an Eckankar church location at 2526 East 25th Street in Minneapolis. 6. An inspection and review of general neighborhood land use characteristics around a property located at 4551-55 East Lake Harriet Parkway in Minneapolis which is operated as a facility by the Church Uni- versal and Triumphant which was the subject of a Su- preme Court of Minnesota decision in November 1983 regarding zoning and church-related land uses. 7. A review of the general development proposal for purpose of determining what is proposed and its po- tential impact on value of adjacent property. As a result of my analyses and investigations as outlined above, I have concluded that there is no logical basis for a conclusion that the sub- 11 ject proposed Eckankar Church will negatively impact property values surrounding the property proposed for development. Reasons for this conclusion are as summarized in the following paragraphs: ' Qobert boblett ' ' A 5ociate6, Inc. ' Messrs. Robert L. Hoffman and Peter K. Beck February 27, 1989 ' Page Four The subject property is in full compliance with existing zoning code re- quirements and is compatible with the Land Use Plan and adjacent sur- rounding property uses. A significant effort has been expended by very qualified experts addressing the construction and engineering related issues surrounding this development and they all appear to comply with ' prudent professional judgments and applicable standards. The proposed church will be located on an approximately 174 acre tract of land which will be largely left in a natural, open, undeveloped area I which should provide positive effects on the overall neighborhood atmo- sphere as opposed to negative effects. Green space/open space/parklands are generally perceived as positive factors in most ' residentially-oriented communities and as such, while the subject prop- erty will not truly be a public park from the standpoint of use, it will certainly be a visually attractive open space amenity for nearby residential properties. Potentially negative elements of noise, traffic generation or unappealing visual sights will not be present and will therefore not provide a negative impact on nearby adjacent properties. I was able to determine that no negative influence is present at other church locations in Chanhassen as it relates to impacts on surrounding ' properties and I was able to discern no indications of negative valua- tion impacts on adjacent property to that which is presently utilized by the Eckankar Church in New Hope and Minneapolis. ' I also did not find any published studies which purport to measure the negative effect that churches have on adjacent property values. While ' the lack of any published study does not necessarily prove the issue, the fact that over the approximately sixty-year history of the formal appraisal profession there have been no published studies addressing this issue indicate that the issue is not one that is typically or even ' rarely encountered in _the valuation profession. I did not find any evidence that properties nearby to 4551-55 East Lake ' Harriet Parkway and used by the Church Universal and Triumphant had suf- fered any loss in value due to proximity to the church. In fact, this area is experiencing a very rapid rate of value increase for residential properties. 1 Qobert boblett A& ociate6, Inc. Messrs. Robert L. Hoffman and Peter K. Beck February 27, 1989 Page Five Gentlemen, I trust this letter summarizing my analyses and conclusions is sufficient for your use at this time. In conclusion, I reiterate that my analysis did not disclose any evidence that church property has a negative influence on adjacent property in the City of Chanhassen or in other areas of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area adjacent to facilities operated or occupied by the Eckankar Church. As a conclusion of my study and analysis, it is my professional opinion that the proposed church "will not depreciate surrounding property values. " I I am available for meetings or attendance at City Council meetings as you would deem appropriate. Sincerely, ROBERT BOBLETT ASSOCIATES, INC. I Ze 7 - p /7) Alan P. eirness, MAI Real Estate Consulting Services Division iw 11 1 I Robert boblett ' A66ociate6, Inc. PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS OF ALAN P. LEIRNE.SS ' Alan P. Leirness has been engaged in the practice of real estate valua- tion and consultation in the Minneapolis/St. Paul Metropolitan Area ' since November, 1976. During this time he has analyzed virtually all types of real estate indigenous to this Metropolitan Area. His major area of concentration has been larger commercial/industrial properties,larger apartment properties, and various special purpose ' properties. Mr. Leirness currently is Vice President of the Real Estate Consulting Services Division of Robert Boblett Associates, Inc. He has held this position since February, 1986. Prior to this, Mr. Leirness was Vice President of Shenehon Associates, Inc. , from November, 1980, to January, 1986. Preceding that he was a staff appraiser at Shenehon-Goodlund & Associates, Inc. , from November, 1976, to October, 1980. Mr. Leirness is a graduate of North Dakota State University in Fargo, ' North Dakota, with a Bachelor of University Studies majoring in geogra- phy. After graduating from college, Mr. Leirness was a Lieutenant in the United States Army, Military Intelligence Branch, as an Aerial Photo Interpretation Platoon Leader. Mr. Leirness holds the MAI (Member, Appraisal Institute) designation from the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers with Certificate number 6629. He currently serves on the AIREA National Non-Residential Appraisal Reports Review committee, the National Division of Courses committee, the Minnesota Chapter 35 Admissions Committee, is Minnesota ' Chapter 35 Education Committee Chairman, and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Minnesota Chapter. Mr. Leirness has completed all required courses and certain elective courses offered by the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers leading to the MAI designation. Topics covered in these courses include Basic Valuation Procedures, Income Capitalization Procedures, Case Stud- ies, Report Writing, Litigation Valuation, and Standards of Professional Practice. Mr. Leirness regularly attends professional educational seminars locally ' and nationally. Topics of seminars he has attended in the recent past include Feasibility Analysis, Market Analysis, Business Valuation, Tax Considerations in Real Estate Transactions, Leasehold Interests, R-41C reporting requirements, Electronic Spreadsheets in the Appraisal Office, Appraisal Review, Real Estate Risk Analysis, Conservation and Preserva- tion Easements, Appraising Apartments, and Eminent Domain Procedures and Practices. 1 Robert boblett Amociate6, Inc. 1 PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS OF ALAN P. LEIRNFSS - Continued 1 Mr. Leirness has lectured on Real Estate Appraisal at Normandale Com- 1 munity College and North Hennepin Community College, and has developed and presented seminars on the Income Approach to Value to groups from BOMA (Building Owners and Management Association) and Washington Federal Savings. He is also an approved Instructor for the International Right-of-Way Association (IRWA). Mr. Leirness is an affiliate member of the National Association of In- dustrial and Office Parks (NAIOP), and has served on the Upper Midwest Chapter Legislative Committee. As part of his membership on this local committee he has managed two data collection efforts to compare indus- trial real estate taxes of similar buildings on a national basis. Mr. Leirness has recently completed valuation, evaluation, and counsel- ing assignments dealing with significant management decisions regarding real property utilized for mortgage financing, real estate tax abate- ment, condemnation, charitable contribution, mortgage loan underwriting, buy/sell decisions, lease and rental rate analysis, investment feasibil- ity analysis, market analysis, litigation, special assessment appeals, investment tax credit analysis, pension fund valuation, purchase price allocation, estate valuations, syndications, real estate investment trusts, site selection, and major plant relocation purposes. Mr. Leirness' clientele includes major banks, lending institutions, in- surance companies, pension funds, developers, governmental agencies, ma- jor industries, real estate service companies, private investors, attorneys, mortgage bankers, and other entities dealing with significant real property decisions. Mr. Leirness has qualified as an expert witness in Hennepin County Dis- trict Court, Carver County District Court, Anoka County District Court, and Minnesota Tax Court. Mr. Leirness currently resides at 500 South Cedar Lake Road, Minne- apolis, with his wife and their three children. 1 I 1 1 I § 20-1 CHANHASSEN CITY CODE ' _Church means a building or edifice consecrated to religious worship, where people join together in some form of public worship under the aegis and direction of a person who is ii authorized under the laws of the State of Minnesota to solemnize marriages. A church may Iinclude living quarters for persons employed on the premises and classroom facilities. The I following are not considered as churches: Camp meeting grounds, mikvahs, coffee houses, recreational complexes, retreat houses, sleeping quarters for retreatants during spiritual retreats extending for periods of more than one (1) day. Bible camps with live-in quarters, I publishing establishments, ritual slaughter houses, radio or television towers and transmis- j. sion facilities, theological seminaries, day care centers, hospitals, and drug treatment centers are not churches. I Class A wetlands means wetland types 3,4,5,6,7 and 8.In the case of wetlands adjoining a public waters designated as lake or pond this class shall also include type 2 wetlands.Type 2 Iwetlands shall also be deemed a class A wetland when adjoining a stream designated as public waters to the extent that it encroaches upon the one-hundred-year floodplain of the stream. Class B wetlands means type 2 wetlands not adjoining a public waters designated as lake or pond nor within the one-hundred-year floodplain of a stream designed as public waters. Clear-cutting means the removal of an entire stand of trees. ICollector street means a street that carries traffic from minor streets to arterial streets. Conference/convention center means a preplanned, centrally managed development con- taining taining facilities for business or professional conferences and seminars and containing ac- commodations for overnight lodging, eating and recreation. The development is characterized (._ by architecturally integrated buildings, common use of parking areas, and incorporation of Ipasses recreational amenities into overall site design. Conforming building or structure means any building or structure which complies with all the regulations of this chapter, or any amendment thereto. IContractor's yard means any area or use of land where vehicles, equipment, and/or construction materials and supplies commonly used by building, excavation, roadway con- , struction, landscaping and similar contractors are stored or serviced. A contractor's yard includes both areas of outdoor storage and areas confined within a completely enclosed building used in conjunction with a contractor's business. ICul-de-sac means a minor street with only one (1) outlet and having an appropriate turn-around for the safe and convenient reversal of traffic movement. I Day care center means any facility or home where tuition, fees or other forms of compen_ sation is charged for the care of children and which is licensed by the state as a day care center. I (' Density, gross means the quotient of the total number of dwelling units divided by the gross site area. Density, net means the quotient of the total number of dwelling units divided by the I developable acreage of the site. Developable acreage excludes wetlands, lakes, roadwa s and other areas not suitable for building purposes. y ' I 1144 I I CZONING § 20-221. I Special Districts I "PUD" Planned unit development. "FW" Floodway district. I"FF" Flood fringe district. "GFP" General flood plain district. "S" Shoreland district. (Ord. No. 80, Art. IV, § 1, 12-15-86) I Sec. 20-202. Zoning map. The boundaries of the districts established by this chapter are delineated on the zoning I map; the map and all notations, references and data shown thereon are hereby adopted and made part of this chapter and will be on permanent file for public inspection at the city hall. I (Ord. No. 80, Art. IV, § 2, 12-15-86) Sec. 20-203. District boundaries. - Except where referenced on the zoning map,a street or alley line or other designated I by dimensions shown on the map, the district boundary lines of all districts except the flood fringe and floodway district, shoreland management district and wetland overlay district , shall follow lot lines or the centerlines of streets or alleys. Where interpretation is needed as Cto the exact location of the boundaries of any district, the board of adjustments and appeals shall make the necessary interpretation. (Ord. No. 80, Art. IV, § 3, 12-15-86) Sec. 20-204. Schedule of uses permitted by district. 1 Uses of land,buildings, and structures not permitted below as either principal, accessory or conditional are prohibited. All district regulations shall also be subject to the provisions of all other applicable provisions of the chapter. I (Ord. No. 80, Art. V, § 1, 12-15-86) Secs. 20-205-20-220. Reserved. ARTICLE IV. CONDITIONAL USES* I DIVISION 1. GENERALLY ISec. 20-221. Nature; burden of proof. Conditional uses include those uses which are not usually allowed within the zoning I district, but which may under some circumstances be suitable. The applicant shall have the burden of proof'that the use is suitable and that the standards set forth in division 2 of this article have been met. (..-- (Ord. No. 80, Art. III, § 2(3-2-1), 12-15-86) State law reference—Conditional uses, AI.S § 462.3595. 1 1169 1 Ns I § 20-222 CHANHASSEN CITY CODE Secs. 20-222-20-230. Reserved. DIVISION 2. CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS ISec. 20-231. Application,public hearing,notice and procedure. The application,public hearing,public notice and procedure requirements for conditional Iuse permits shall be the same as those for amendments as provided in article II, division 2, except that the permit shall be issued on the affirmative vote of a majority of the entire I council. Although specific submissions required to complete an application for a conditional use permit may vary with the specific use and the district in which it is located, all applica- tions for such permits must include at minimum a site plan that clearly illustrates the following: proposed land use building mapping and functions, circulation and parking areas, planting areas and treatment, sign locations and type, basic lighting concerns, the relation- ship of the proposed project to neighboring uses, environmental impacts and demand for municipal services. (Ord. No. 80, Art. III, § 2(3-2-2), 12-15-86) ' Sec. 20-232. General issuance standards. The planning commission shall recommend a conditional use permit and the council shall issue such conditional use permits only if it finds that such use at the proposed location: I1 (1) Will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health,safety,comfort,convenience or general welfare of the neighborhood or the city. (2) Will be consistent with the objectives of the city's comprehensive plan and this chapter. i (3) Will be designed, constructed, operated and maintained so to be compatible in ap- pearance with the existing or intended character of the general vicinity and will not change the essential character of that area. (4) Will not be hazardous or disturbing to existing or planned neighboring uses. I (5) Will be served adequately by essential public facilities and services, including streets, 1 police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, water and sewer I i systems and schools; or will be served adequately by such facilities and services provided by the persons or agencies responsible for the establishment of the proposed , use. 1 (6) Will not create excessive requirements for public facilities and services and will not I be detrimental to the economic welfare of the community. I i (7) Will not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, equipment and conditions of Ioperation that will he detrimental to any persons, property or the general welfare because of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, odors, rodents, I1 or trash. f (8) Will have vehicular approaches to the property which do not - I l Y create traffic congestion or interfere with traffic or surrounding public thoroughfares. 1170 I I r,sT ZONING § 20-235 1 k_ (9) Will not result in the destruction, loss or damage of solar access, natural, scenic or historic features of major significance. (10) Will be aesthetically compatible with the area. I `1 (11) Will not depreciate surrounding property values. (12) Will meet standards prescribed for certain uses as provided in this article. I (Ord. No. 80, Art. III, § 2(3-2-3), 12-15-86) Sec. 20-233. Conditions imposable on permits. Il I (a) In reviewing applications for conditional use permits, the planning commission and i` the council may attach reasonable conditions to mitigate anticipated adverse impacts associ- ' 4 ated with these uses, to protect the value of other property within the district, and to achieve Ithe goals and objectives of the comprehensive plan. Such conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) Controlling the number, area, bulk, height and location of such uses. (2) Regulating ingress and egress to the property and the proposed structures thereon C 1 with particular reference to vehicle and pedestrian safety and convenience, traffic ;l flow and control and access in case of fire or other catastrophe. I l (3) Regulating off-street parking and loading areas where required. _' (4) Utilities with reference to location availability and computability. I .1 (5) Berming,fencing,screening, landscaping or other facilities to protect nearby property. (6) Computability of appearance. (b) In determining conditions, special considerations shall be given to protecting immedi- -1 ately adjacent properties from objectionable views, noise, traffic and other negative character- J istics associated with such uses. j (Ord. No. 80, Art. III, § 2(3-2-4), 12-15-86) Sec. 20-234. Denial for noncompliance. :i If the council denies a conditional use permit, it shall state findings I ;.,s as to the ways in which the proposed use does not comply with the standards required by this chapter. 1(Ord. No. 80, Art. III, § 2(3-2-5), 12-15-86) I Sec. 20-235. Permits not personal. (.....- A conditional use permit shall be issued for a particular use and not for a particular I person. (Ord. No. 80, Art. III, § 2(3-2-6), 12-15-86) 1171 I . . .- § 20-236 CHANIIASSEN CITY CODE ' Sec. 20-236. Expiration. If substantial construction has not taken place within one (1) year of the date on which the conditional use permit was granted, the permit is void except that, on application, the ' council, after receiving recommendation from the planning commission, may extend the permit for such additional period as it deems appropriate. If the conditional use is discon- tinued for six (6) months, the conditional use permit shall become void. This section shall 1 apply to conditional use permits issued prior to February 19, 1987 but the six-month period shall not be deemed to commence until February 19, 1987. (Ord. No. 80,Art. III, § 2(3-2-8), 12-15-86) ' Sec. 20-237. Revocation and not for a particular person. ' Failure to comply with any condition set forth in a conditional use permit, or any other violation of this chapter, shall be a misdemeanor and shall also constitute sufficient cause for the termination of the conditional use permit by the city council following a public hearing. 1 (Ord. No. 80, Art. III, § 2(3-2-7), 12-15-86) Secs. 20-238-20-250. Reserved. ' DNISION 3. STANDARDS FOR AGRICULTURAL AND RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS ' Sec. 20-251. Scope. In addition to all other standards required by section 20-232, the standards in this division shall apply to conditional uses if they are to be located in agricultural or residential ' districts. (Ord. No. 80, Art. V, § 9(5-9-1), 12-15-86) ' Sec. 20-252. Bed and breakfast establishments. The following applies to bed and breakfast establishments: ' (1) Two(2)off-street parking spaces plus one(1)additional space per rental room must be provided. (2) There shall be no more than one (1) employee in addition to the residents. (3) Establishment must be owner occupied. ' (4) There shall be five (5) or less rooms for rent. (5) The rooms shall not be rented for more that seven (7) consecutive days to the same person. (Ord. No. SO, Art. V, § 9(5-9-1(1)), 12-15-86) Sec. 20-253. Group homes. ' The following applies to group homes for seven(7) to sixteen (16) persons. _ (1) The structure must be in compliance with the state licensing requirement. ' 1172 § 20-257 CHANHASSEN CITY CODE Sec. 20-257. Wholesale nurseries. The following applies to wholesale nurseries: (1) The site must be on a collector street or minor arterial as identified in the compre- hensive plan. , (2) The minimum lot size is five(5) acres. (3) All storage and yard areas as well as buildings must be setback one hundred (100) feet from public or private road right-of-ways and five hundred (500) feet from an adjacent single family residence. (4) The site must be located along a collector or minor arterial as identified in the comprehensive plan. (5) All outdoor storage areas must be completely screened by one hundred(100)percent opaque fencing or berming. (6) Hours of operations shall be from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday 1 only, work on Sundays and holidays is not permitted. (7) Light sources shall be shielded. (8) No outside speaker systems are allowed. (Ord. No. 80, Art. V, § 9(5-9-1(6)), 12-15-86) Sec. 20-258. Churches—Generally. El i The following applies to churches inside: (1) The site shall be located on a collector or arterial roadway as identified in the comprehensive plan or located so that access can be provided without conducting traffic through residential concentration. (2) The structure must be set back fifty (50)feet from all property lines. (3) Parking areas shall be set back twenty-five (25) feet from streets and nonresidential property and thirty(30) feet. (4) No more than seventy(70)percent of the site is to be covered with impervious surface and the remainder is to be suitably landscaped in conformance with article XXV. (Ord. No. 80, Art. V, § 9(5-9-1(7)), 12-15-86) Sec. 20-259. Same—Located outside MUSA line. The following applies to churches located outside the Metropolitan Urban Services , line: an p 1 bervtces Area (1) The following must be provided for review: a. Location of two (2) drainfield sites. b. Two (2)soil borings on each drainfield site for a total of four(4)soil borings. c. No percolation tests for drainfield sites where the land slope is between zero and - twelve(12) percent. 1174 MIR 1 11 TO: THE CHANHASSEN PLANNING COMMISSION AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS ' FROM: T.P NEDA RAHE ' RE: OPPOSITION TO ECKANKAR RECEIVING "CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT" TO BUILD A CHURCH, A CARETAKER'S RESIDENCE, A SCHOOL, AND OFFICE SPACE FOR ABOUT 20 EMPLOYEES DATE: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 , 1989 THE ATTACHED PETITIONS CONTAIN OVER 550 SIGNATURES OF LOCAL AND NEAR ' BY RESIDENTS. THEY ARE INTENDED TO HELP YOU IN DECISIONS REGARDING ECKANKAR BUILDING IN CHANHASSEN, AND IN YOUR SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY. IT IS HOPED THAT BY THIS EYFORTT THE CONCERNS OF THE PEOPLE WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED AND ACTED UPON IN A DISCERNING MANNER. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION RELATING TO THIS GRAVE CONCERN. mm ide, the citizens of Chanhassen, are opposed to tie settiing or Eckankar i)_-.1 our community and do not have a need for their , services I :e. EC-;.ar.i,car Petition I Ifil 1E A DT.) ESS I _ . N it 1 1 0 I '' -2:4\0,)-1 • L'i,i',,'' ;'.1\1,in,V,c,c,". (z;,) J 1 ttc,.1.. ,„t,, _. .,t,t,ii ,~", -.-.—, I i 1 .,.... , 1 , 4 . • • ..\..(Cs-Nk,L.-.. .,...\i're V.-- (C17 I ilr.)6,- L-a--.---- 3 I,' ,1/•\ ----) 1 r--) 1 1. -1- ...:"1 I ' i. 61.72.4:1 th.I.Z.2 .7 -fri__ 7c---.1.'71 t-'z..z-,),-),,c__/_/-1.1..._ .. I ,,,---; - ,' - ---)----) ,---) - ,, J.,..:, ......-._,-,..e... ..1.2_,..__ ---)0 --; 7 bire-n. •-•< 71 . ___ .. .,... --.. / / (0.Y/St Ci ■Lic1.4;,,4,..,c_k_ ..." I , .r/f - - . -' ____— OLL\'■•-,--C:v1-'--- (.,, -,-2- I C /4/4/1'474111"--4-.V -"/----" — --.)-- - 9 211' .i...'vciN, -.. '-•"-< - • - 12gOO (:11. -1,, titLet_k' Qtrti, i/ e„ Li 7 Li--s 5z ......(. .._ i 1 i, • ..._,6,,'1,1 1 .)1 . I: 17 I Li) s I-4 I _._______ / P ; , I 6 . . . - (.:.,,,,.._ -,,1,_,..,_, (., / / ( , - ,-, --, - /IN _/ i:,• - , 1, ' 2 .., , ,, _, , i /---, , 1 (. _ -f.)._r ::..•,.._ ?,-1 ; 4.) ,•ckt;:..„(i. .....c....L.L. .. _ (— i- j2 I -1 4 ..,Lt •..,-:."..... A --/ I..3 - _.', ',.Y,-,':1)-(7..,'''.__,;z_-./_--.:-....' . ___1.2..."vc-tiLe ._._ ._(,2_.(221_. _CI?.L.ezekma-21,1,-e‘if (---A--ekAA- - I r, i siL L) I) (4' __,-,-- .1.,-k-1-.c._..1,...„41/4...../.....„,(>44=,.........t. ... . -_______ ____1.7.,. ________ ......„ 15, I If --.„-: -', 4 vt, ■!: . n ,1% I /6 — 4 - .---t:7)--,;-777- I ? ,,,,),,,-.L,- . est i v----- ''' °g7 7 e■-° --.2.."-: (..)4 t..."7- .--) ii __;.:_.....L..4-, . •, ..:.. ,- 15 /7),',1 1---/L/N Y 4Q.,-7 . ( ) 1 - ----'7.- ; . , i i .•c ..7 iii. _. ...)-".„---7 ....J.- / ,.. , i. , .•,-;.. , /r., ,—.- /. ., / --) , --1 / , •'; , • ,- 2-6 — r- . ZZ-c---:',- _., .2_.•:!,..-, 2_ 2/. /gli-.4...tt,t,,<:-•LL) - ),..GN--C, 1,f_.4....e. i.,-- — ___ KO q I ...., /..; , .";2;3:...-14. _...i dfiirt---e- ..... ..b-t.i-----.,,,,AT..lvz At-.-L.-L t-o L—c..i_i• __ j i JTI7 _ T__ /..1— ,,-/,,r,--z-?c „ / 1 0 47-S-- r L,,,,,.,1-le.. .11 yr__ ii , --/ r (s.„. . .-2,1,7<_-(•:>(_.../ ;a ,,• i ,'___ddiA..., . • , if ;,.:(J• __7__ , i14,,g,/, -L_iik• . 1 ) i -' /7 .,/ _A r-- - •N'--- V • V4.--A/k/4 (j e ii Q- '' e- ( " / ) I Ell We, the citizens of Chanhassen, are opposed to the settling of Eckankar in our I community and do " 't have a need for them here. A.. : Petition I - A DI/2 ES S , // : I .j•' 4-72,!.e.44-eft_e'- -' 7c? - - Vivrif/e Cel7WZ- 6/A-I A1,9;/55 L:7 I o Z., 4 WC, 122/1/1 I I. t 0" .3 I Z. _\..-)•/C.:x_c:;:?\. .\-<:.,.\-\ __SjA"_.\,....___ .._`.0Aca... /Q _. ... _. I - x i I _ ___________ _ I _ I _ _._.___ I - I _ . _ _..___...._____ _ I _ I II _ __ I _ .. _ _.__.___ _ I _ ____.._.._ __ ___._._____ ____.________ I - ------ ---- - - _ 1 _ _ _ _ _ I MO Vie, the citizens of Chanhassen, are opposed to the settlin:.-3 • of Eckanlcrr in our community and do not ha,7_,, a need for I their seli 3es here. Ecari':ar Petition I 4 Aril, A DM ES S I .3 4. 7-1.-/ J0.s.21CZEIL_ . r , I 11' -A. LO. a/ Cict'.q • Z -.e Esli )Z.,--1 I )') ex lak-Sr/L./ I / ii , . . .__---,-.-f __ _ 4 . 0// azzverae/‹. 4C --- _ , .... l 1 . 1-1c2 t. ..._. ,--_01- :...----1-'\/?. \-/ La-RS:Ai— r7 C. C)---(I\VA, i?_,),\_52 ./:yr•-c-1-7/t ' q 1 r..1.1,A?ta..7 ,,_-,"j .;(' ,C1_42.,-f, _______ tier:r4.. ...._ , , I ,--, -, 1 ‘ ,-) i- <- , \ , ) ? ' ri .) I e /() •—.1 .---1;.■'i.. ./ 1\17)i.,l i(. (•: I _ \(1 _ __ .:,. ..._.; I __________ ___...._._ __________ _______ I I I ......- I . _ ... I 1 I __ __ I I ME I We, the Chanhassen;zitizens, are opposed to the set4-3 ing of Eckankar in our community and do r.,:i have a need for their service si _Ire. Ec'-zari;!.:ar Petition 1 NAM] — ADDTESS I II • „)1 1 / 2 4 JeilYn,(4J • c • 7 1 _ // / i-4-PA- /et CAd/14-Ali y —Tr )) , •2 • ' ' - q , _ / ./. , _4/ // la.) _ ./?_ec.". - - ,e.e.,. .2___ 1f6. /6.21262yt—A-(_:- I ,.16, 9tat,L,(., , _No..._ .2az*./.14 _ i,/t>,_-//,_iii,ai-i-- , _... t).(2,... ... _......„-ei..2,)__________ Q0( tra.A P-->lu,).. 0-(...t.,1,-, _ I -j 1-M . 1 . — • -t9' i.Y__\.__ .I.,22.01Sc.“.;L4____.__ _S-.2_0._.-.. _.M ____„.,______L_ 52 .a.4 -2Qff..., L /„, — , I (-. . .1-C 6;-./ . .__-4 i 1C-4 m— _________ ________— c) 6)/I I 1 ( v I 1,.. __42. _de.g•f II-.__ ._#_'"? `-__.._______...__.. _ ... V 0 l/ _ ____ _...____ . . .. : Ate -6-75-3(7 40" . . ___.L.9a4aLed---Z ,(C e&// / , ..... . 4, I _.,..'.. ...._,. __ ,i -7 . ..::: :............:L...-___(..._'_-_ -I.:' ___ ,, ) s 't ,• '-- J.' ! - ' 4C /c/-•6-77'j)=- -/e/,;:,-.i..= 4/7. ./.; Ii .:)-(i ..____ „._, 4 ________ ... _ _..„, . , ,s- cy.,., ., g.(„ I ,- a .,„.„4 /...44 ,,,,,,,, ,,,, ,. .., ,, „,7 A 912 t(' (.4412 I 61. . ti;-1 .. . ,,, - - / .-i , `( .,--m, L •,,/ .7"/' .'''';'. ' '' .,' ( ' 1,2 .- - -- i -. , 4,,,,,.,, .%!..:.!'. oi IF`..:::: .., -... 4.:■•'.;,.':Li.^4:- . h.:.''''''‘-'01P- .,t■' I ' ./r) 1 ,.") / 62._s_21.: 1-27',")_.,,Li_j-kY)--). 'N '1./-:. .'I_____ --- .4 ''...' '. — /1 1 li:Z.1 , Q 21_,_( _.r? ' -'1:), P S (-)L,' k---• --,..t.- ,.._____ _ tit i 7.`-_-0`-'4;t4'174‘‹ . i--4.4:•&•.- _ _61293 I ...{, 65. z":/..e' l ....-7 ,,:,,,,„e n 1 . 0 }Z2e,/,7-7&Z- c:) ,-z-zcz--- , .,, • Sei cP • A,v • CV,1/4,-€ • a,. -'1 L _gla (__ . /04,„,,_ /4de I),7 --- ---.. . IV,-,_-..i- .1 _ 1 _.) i/1, , 6-3 _ ___:_.__L.,..._LL___;LL-r. ' -' ) , ___ ' I %., 4,,„, , •/' "sr.- 7)4 2 1; c,.4i, \.„) ,t,,A.- ,, ,,.k,„‘-..—, (.- L 214,,/,(44/4,1 ,1 j. L-2 , l, ..,..)_ L-/ . ,;;;_,,,.',2,1,1-1.....•:_...) t. "(../1"( • I ':./..) We, the citizen,----,f Chanhassen, are opposed to ti- settling of Eckankar I in our community' and do not have a need for thern':iere. Eckax.icar Petition rIANE ADDRESS I . I 4", 7ie a 4.:.' 6Zi27&//i/x9-,L314-e I —,-- 7 qk 1.e.:,'. _. gvaza,A.wk a ,,,..., , ,.. _ L-AR 2.e_c...(u ,-, (_ k_ 0 .ti - — __--_---- -- 2. -- .____ . 7...Z2---:-./.2, .4.-j -- - —._ ,-,y / /z.•-2.. _ _....(_ 13-'2 ?c'...e1--4 (-)-76.:(- I ,.,.../ .. / 7-7. er;,. ,-.2Z/v/..z./ LA- ,.. I .7 '6 _ __. ..7:. _ _ AL. 6`1r)o C_Azi/ M/ctli ( i,/717-47(-.3-61 --) 11-., S ) .e_.,4-' 22. C1 (6 ,_ ___ i 11 .:)j.___.7 /..--?.,,,73 Z4.,-3-12.... ■./:_______._____ ..... 7 7"C C///47—/'-, z- x_4./v--- I c4---47"-/---a,/ I L-Oc) cu\LL,L X_______. 5; ___.. ..--_L- ,,n .... • •_ t) Lc._ _C A .1) ' (, ,'., /2.7 M , i.__ .. i , I .... , i 3v, ,_,-12,)_.(_,1---7,-(- \//,.-7 ...644-------- / (7/7 4ef/1,), --e"/G.L., I 1 ) (jA ./,1(6 1,4/,, (1:.--4' /z_(L.% 7' L\' 4._ '( ./,' 1-L1---/2-(.- __.__ 072 L-1-).- a°11 __ a_/_____ _&_;4.6,14 . 7. ____ ___ I ..., ___e. ,(..,..-k, ',.,..,„ (_, (,.., x ( r k_.0.. 0,,,_,.,_ ( 0Z-E-„__c__ N. /O • il ,---2 sse (_/_./.26_.,,,_ ic-f- / i I ______--r--..,■--- ) i ' • 4...4. . / f". 1— —— , - ,— : ) • 1 - Cti ii_ t i)j lilf _ Ce 1 f:. .(6 ,1,1,- .' 1 (-) 1 c_z _ 6 7/.........1.--....----.11 1.3 e, the citizens of Chanhassen, are opposed to the settling of I , Eckankar 4 -- our community and do not have ',eed for their services j.„, ...e. Ec :ar2.':ar Pe t i ti on I II.M TT] - A DIP,ESS ,----7 , I ( 7- 4--7 (,/,,- /,...,(C---...fc,„,..-4-1--L.....--------- 6 P4 i 1 ,.,.‘, ._ t : I ..C"'' ' `- k______ . -.-'?4--.% . . . - .-----....—.-- I ''' K2 ---' L!c"/ 7,--c-- / C.-- c A— t i I6770 -zirz IA4z--- -_..--)5A4 ),i , _.._ ___ I i,/1.- 0 / 6 1.__ _, 7 6: ci 2. c_, L (-- .- (.2 4 - /.._____,._- • "... - , p.1:_7— I , -%- \\ L_) ' (..,e--)11 (1:.14\-f-A-le.,■Tik c:74 - I .,t ___ .._....•.:_,.. ..\ --- 7.21/a( & o ..-Q-)Q. ,,),yil-. (-_- , _ _L-7-. _____._...... ._ _____________________._ 7,.... I 1 &_,v, '1,,Q* II..-,._L -,-Jyvil.k.c.._. _._<._ ...,_.„.9,.. ______ 6 c/a o ee Aw i /lc( b,a, IL ,.. ././L/LL . .,e, 6sz /c,Ldgii ny, t..___________ 1 16--) ---- , • ., .ic2. ,f Ir f, ----------.__-- ---------- _ ,t. ..) .//v.ilce ate:WI 6 E70 Odita,;-1 -4' I i,,,, ±- 7::7c iyzA J,&_))1, 4.--,12 \....._____ _ 6 70 6 cia 1 t x(1 , _C1 )02_ I • 1 /e.--6 -69-'4') I I L .2_ .. P-S,'-,..-— .... . —-----\-- ------- ■ -C.0 t 4.)/Ai /(../ 4 c /2_k- 6 cs. er-0-0 V..., I /12. ,,y_.:0,6vuL_ _.51-yrkr,)-fqz-7- -- soo6 loah*( ,t4 .e_. . 13, I1 Ig, cae_o_ze 9 0/sa4,4, so/oz ).,a__/-e 1 ii: 0. 4 axme,ezL,___ ..__d__Joi _e_g, 6,771__ z?,ue ilut • C 6)7 Oak I _ .._ __. ____ — 111 ___ I I I - ill We, the cizens of Chanhassen, are oppose(' -o the settling of I Eckankar i . cur Community and do not have ar __.eed services here. •-:71.1ar Petition I N ilIE ADD:RESS .1 /4 /2 I 4.) _/' //1. _--.2 i:\ / C5 C, , ( ( v-L7,u . _1 /1.'' 4:7,1 7 e 1/t-'- 4309z, /44/_,..... A/4, I ,0 1/q. ,-12 A-(.-/C-' C--/-4.1-1._.s. (.," _ (- .. _____ __ , -e-1.1!./‹.-. _ - (:\ --/: c- 1 b / _c;‘, 0- , I _ 0G ___ i- , e__,)e._,-7/ e_. ..-,. _ \ -1)----)--,_._/ ! L..--J-Lk7,-.-_-. .-- 1-:--.__-::____ ) .4721_1‘2,74.a1A,g-vi2..._.._______ 's-tlat.--) .-,2.(t.: - ; / 6 t, „Pe Y-5--- OC/./21:7 dAtz• -7• - - /2 /27(-7:4 ,, 1 -24.7.--' • . .,,----- , e.:■-'"7 t ,.... , , : ' .1 ,, 1 • .1 ,,, . -: t -• .1 i I; . .-.4••:.44------"----•■-■- :it4::-...21-t..- -..-...-.----..--..-- 1/ ___.-• • ) ! 1 tt. • 141 OW' i a".. -.. AC LOA'Ir.L.i."‘IdA) ...--.OLY 1.Y:ft_cildL - • .--.j---L--‘'-...-- 1:11--Lal_- J.pli,2.. , 3 . 4_,Lc.,-- /evo i\. 0 -'7/4-../ •. 4„igeL.■__Ce-5's--7-__________ A i (-- 40 -4---PLAI-- /4.-c<-7.,.......------- _______ 1n2/ eZI-4.&-7/e (/ a..,Z...v., ....t*' ,. i 7 / /g / e 6:441/ ' ,-`_-7/I/ (7 j,--- 7, ..... ,.....-, -2/ 4.---(Let<! /-,4--.---■ ..._ . . aLscLL, _, -1623_ /0..L_C___.21tic:::42___Th I /- --- ) ■ -4 11 ,_ . ___ - • L-- ----A.. III 71 _0__O ___LO1°)(1\ e4 . • lb, ti),.it, 1314. 411Pir ),59, _ --..s, .. . _ __ 1,01------• a - . .. .... .."1,_. _?. -/ 61,/,thcf? _ f?d i C I __ . .. // ( / ____ i, ! ..._ .- r- i rut 71) ,..1, ,:f.--z...1_,.,..A._" _ 141 5- I " /q/. 4 ' . -. , Z7,-7,/:/?4,„ - .4,, .g.-::3--- 7 -/(0C 1 r r( ____. I IL!z ff . . 40- ,.. _. .. . . . . 7513 • .i, atcz_, „ I _. _ Pt 3- ■-_-(4-) 111"- __C) tm opzath &le I In Petition (� I de, the citizens of Chanhassen, are opposed to the settling of Eckankar in our community and do not have a need for their services here. 1 I Izf_—G,J r / ADDRESS i ,0.i , it/v� ,L�.AL--e------- (� /.S /9 1 /F- L.A/x>. /'', cY ,( .ALL. C\� Q0, _). („ 9 S o PLA-�- : v.,. / RA-0„-Z-C. IfaA-iL,' \ I �t v4 f,Q �'' jil/' ,,,.0 . kcI/Y )4/314 'l_ ,P / I/ el/keyd--' -Cln"y--e 1,......,,Aj? 4,,,,,,e 0, j2,.A ..:7_,aa_anari_LI:b4,_ I'' '.(.) Unit_fl.IAA(711. 0-0-. PLMot, tt,tilL) �, , __. tk,), '70) 10- «4 L �� - sk�G, 'ova II.. , Pk, . • ' , / / , - 70a(..P ',*rna_ (CUt I ._' 5 ? U, - 2 .� 7- cd -....,./...,:76, . ;>,--)1 /r,, '( • t P� l � �- j ei' J „;z 6-'” � ),\., ,ei-e;: ( t (,./ e, . ,L._----- -°'. > J 1 . !(..;-)_.– ( cy. �f ZLL)712,1 G:)..,;c: !—�'.� •-��'� • / /1.1-,`/•/ ''/I I1.1 • .4(4,1:1,. , i Ci-v-L _t-lc.( L''`'" 7" ( '3 U i-`C: f C j (-�z __---�- ,.-). (2 ,, Cwt/(0�./...,_, r, 5.126 /-6X g d. >6-4• I , ,n • ,. '" -A / , ..,�.. ' .fi .�• t � 9 ; .---._.. I ' lr"-- :/: /4- 4( (17-7(,.1 ;ICY-- leti// if //te' V/1-,----- ' L , .:;:;f4 r �, : ( A1)1,0 ;) . )...f , C (G C //4 ,`..`� ^-• ,L I ti-'') -2'3:k&e-----St-6, � �/)L A 4 i n I MO v. We, the Chanhassenr'i.tizens, are opposed to the set:=--'ing of Eckankar in our I community and do a have a need for their services\ -ere. al:al-I:car Petition • NAHE — ADDRESS I A.421 j ,Z,/,4..,.....-.z.-e— I '- /6'7 ; • ( / - ilie , _,.... A * - "- .. ...a..d.c. , I ......._ --- - ---.-- fff,(/' ^ ';'•ell, 41- - •NV ka 74:g /Ive if I ----.:4, ,t , ,,-7 , , // .4./ // A----7.1 i y, __.::, 0-1,*--( f li /1;A-. • _ . . . , i I 1"17 i •, ,.< , 1e/ZZ .-4-..E3t_ S'002/-3 TOW/co 7let /=)-Ut...-2 Ai _ _\ .---- 210 t,710.5 f)a toltts_lte 3 - r-Li t 7 • Sta____c I 1 g. _ --. 1 _ __ -------- _ ______________________._ I ....-- ..._- I , - I _....._ • I • ..... I .... -- I I _...__.........._......_-- I __ ..... ______ I , I MB vie, tne citizens o.T. nannasscm, are op-pose a. to tne settling I .Ecican::::ar Pet lo tfioEnckankar in our comnun - services i 'e. ity and do not have a need far their NMI] ,kiii.).72,S`S I I i-76 ., '_Ln-is2,_.k--Mirbry/tAr. (._A__) g0-5CS ---.- A i ., , 1: I --/- ' 1 -Li-- -,..■ {).-1/4i 'vt 5.-6 1 V 8-."6-6- ,AA-; /II C7, /9 1 \:: %- , , )/ ,3 ------ . ....-____- ---._--.---------- 1/ I i )L I' _..__Ad.f..12eat,-;1 . .1, .., . -._ __LI._ .. i __ ___ ______________ .,.. . - i. -I, ( /...,__ `A,4\-:-.1' .), _ _....'... .:-..r.-_.L._:-1t.--J______.....27___. ____ _ ._.p _._-____ _____ • 2(a% 5:14 -47L C/(404,AciA' :1‘,/ 1 -;,-=‘, 13,_ , k_,., 4:-.9)& LAV-e., .)%_)• __Ii ° 3) iQcje_eLti.L, (.2 .e/, ..,. (1-1-aq-7,-.4- -) - ____. _ .________ - 0 I ,.,,; ; _ ...6,4,,,T*„.4.,, „. ____,0_37.__D. AKsa21.__Z_JI,,L-4r; C17//1, , •';.-/. C _< / 4, • 63_3 A-f.eaM- 61,1J-e-- (g4-plz,.5‹ -__ - • /. i. // .._ ,,7 .••1 I ' ' rt $Q._22- 11,- • - ' ,,,,,./-7,-/,,,,t .-J- 2 /I .. ./fi 8 e Z I i`-;.)' . ...._____O _ 1 / 6----- IIEEE± _____,------ I , _ ......._ 7 t.5 t i i k t i — ---2-7?ce./ -a).A,v=e---- 1)--._. _ ____. 67 Lk( 7c/-741 71d. I ---7 . lai,r , I1`,6.• Al-f. . --r- 1. ------ ( ,-,-1 . e: C -, - ' 1 'i I Ct :\ I t (i_,_ , . ,,,,,va..\ L,q4_u f1 t k , (...:--' ...: •- -- -\.. -c...-.7 1),Y,-.----7, r •? c Ct-',1— ') )e7'i. :3;" . ._L.__ ___ ' .__ ___ _ . ....!_—!.2_=________ I ..e_...._. 77.-_,... .— . ___.--- ' '''' (ii/ig(6 ttl •' ' I%&iv"— ,j2 a c)? II I - --- ----- I la for their services. I ,-- , Eckariar Petition ( ' NAHE ADDRESS I Ic"c/T N/) .' J ___Z.—d, —.Z ____ III --), - ---, , - -4—es-4-4J— / -./.. 1 I . , . /0 L_____ _ 4<z/tii ...._____ ___ ____ • :),:),h,Ly- 14.,),4„. 4) . .- 73.44-- — —.. r-,-,..-. ‘,.L.tn...*--•-■ I ---c, • ;c , -/-- 7--7,4--- • ____—,= --K, ,•• - i I / )(1 I - . / "..—..Nel 1 .- - . )0• 01-IV6 J o 1-11--/S15-Kr (/A-S -k- /1- • 2_(,'• Z ---e- . __ I I 1.---- - / , (6 / 4 I L---(---v-4f_---t-c ----- 1-1 ?)• 1 24,i 'ri L:1-el leif#' I 2111- '41. --kij 7‹...• ekc3A,k64., 7 / I •`- &2c_; 'fr:." ' .A,Ii-0_1 -- . ,--T. - .._ ,_&20__ r st . I 777-7J ) , -0 / 1 : i. )---, , ____, --",- 1-'e-c--.- k C 6 -- ---•---- l_ '..---151, ■ ,e________ _ . - 1.e, ), , i,e_z2- 1_-e - " Pik) ') --/- ,r ,./ . I Y,26 -7 p a.) ), 1 tp, 4 1 a4.7---__. u .--727 Li- -). 214: L;>7 .2,Hi:4-44..'. '1 a e' I ) 4._.4 1. ' . x,, , 4., , ._ ----. I 6141 ma ',',re. are opposed to the settling of Eckankar in our Iccimunity and do not have a need f^-r there services 1 ;_ .:;,,, (<6truz.„.& (..2"1/1,--S,e_,- 0111; (. iTi k) (},,,,,i ��L� ( (3/a/4; 2 - IAI 7 z,�� iC - Q� ,:31, it- 4/A/�" (a.t%2i Gc ( )y--- ,:172221;/- vt.)7 )-7,-A Aze,,,L_b4_7‘_. _ 0-Z20-a----1-_,.-__J 114/4 yykti„,j .46:bAli /690,./5/0„) (livAc k4, X IF-77-yzyt. 5,4-7-)v-r--4. ._ „k,,,..(2, p OF t 3� Mz. +71tt? l 1 L:CHI C.--P-cp..-1....9 ,4, -� a chcisP.__GLi, 11„. ...„(____7 ,,,,,,,..... L.L.A.,_Q.._. )7q4d,wi &o, , ) 1145,' kiateil-012 f/7m,p/x} lirl.%•. `-:.:u- k/�--0-L%— CJ' s, 14-'. I'JI' 5`6 4 & i ..y, „..._.) oz,----alita .„ AlAt I )'; . ��y�/� 1?-72 C4 �i, Al Ai h L Yti ,i7 �, A &-0):"8--e' 4 ( -,i.c_ 1 4)(10 c. )Q46-4 —ni A__,L___ ,,, r) -1,___, •. i_to. e.b.)\,ttyr.:112" - Z . ,. . >• SL ��- �`1 V -�tea,., 1�; � • X41' 2/ze.Zr i_z_e -2'� ( .: G s. `��. IN, \U ,( 5� 1 .., - �- )1))/ / ,,g;1/4/. / / I , i$ / . dr'sr) 1,..i,,,,, ' i ) --2-/-X SG : /? 1 V 40 ) 1/4 o , *We are opposed to the settling of Eckankar here in our community and do not have a need for their services. f I • ', , Eckanicar Petition NAI1E . — ADDRESS I , / . A . . '-;.,-'.-.' ----' ,,, 1 2 ' I 1 .... .. •■•,___...9. 4'Z IA • C.9"e C--Q— 4 , ..ir , _. . d--e-1/YLC,Z__ I — :,...s.' "-- I r-4 -4 .• .- k ..._ - :1:'1- lo (7 0 0 riA/14A 4.g/11 )14Gfee 01 fil — — — 1---_- - 7. --_ -- .— _.... ' . l 1 .1 0 (I y a l'''-1./,'... 4 1f,:,•'.1 .,.-- • I A :O/d, ,.c _0.. %4)&_■ / ) 77/ „ .A:-.1,'Z- 1'14 1'1/ I I. 72,.) ,-.1 -,.._ ,',:...1.) ,-, ____-___,) .<, __ - ' , t) ,.-,-).' ....,f..1/.P._ ,..e.e. I - A- .,C.,___1_,---7..-7.--------T-;....7..-.- -..,■---,F-7." -,-z --. ------.--- _-__...74,,- , / 7# I - I -,----;- ''-'•,--, ',S `-- ' -% i " 17.7>";rv-/ 1?Y\ %:.-I 14..A.: (--4-. • ! — ::::___. __ . I. .. ' ,24.:(7• ,, ,,--i,:?./,.,r., -,-'----,),,, /-o,A,./,/,) -77 ._,„ . / _ ,-.‘ I -...-- . _ —....-_-_:_-_-_-- , . ______ _. /ml? , I -" :2-72- /1\,-.-J .1- ' 4442.,c;_e_ 6:7 ,,,,i Cka-5 /ea- • 41,-1,1 ..-.:......._\". - ,.........-4.:. ------- ,,•___ .L-,----- , ' oe...__. I ( A // -,-2k -r.' 1).?-1 1 . .1, - i • 1 1 rl'i (6-1-‘1 r I i -2-,Iii, 7, i ,.;:,,t.e., ,, t!. ,,etAj-ksc,C ,:%k-,4 <1.4„-Q( J e gcl:...,, 1.4:4_. 0(0 I .., , -,4/7-t C..-14,4%.:,,i-4-4(_. 7-70-7.-7 • 1 , r \ I .. .71. --.. .1-sel 'fte/Cl ...el-SL--- — 1 1 5 '')Y-"'*. .:1.. ...L''=.■•&71. ".f.E) .2. &A.irC('-'4.-".- L.:';',-,I.C.-- .."")..i. '''"),'"■•,... .... ‘21r1-. IMV/11 1 b... "I 211b I keLL■a:....-.. ....-:±27. .-.C. ....:- . Zi _ 11 00$ I , --, / - .- ' l — -;7-/C-67 --a. / 7 g- . (. '),-.A----.1.--,- ....<3.----/L-z---,-.■ --- — , (----' / • I I --... g/ for their services. I .. Eckankar Petition (. - • NAME ADDRESS I .....tz _ 1 4 . - - .3 1 , 2'3 1 I ci , , . , . . ->-055 --1,OcEr',-- r ( ,4A'AIC-tk_ /..,-,=et',2/?-c-/// /4.-fr .., ■ t, i /g,.1- --/I.,/,-,= --, b ) (.. - 11 47/ ,i-2 • 17 C/__ / ....... I ( I()„ ' ,...)/../._. 4.___-4:::L.6.4_,,L-- - , Z.-2-:•:,?-7:F ..2a7.,44. ..._ --).ci'-'72/142 .... I :-Z-t 3 S"..-'bi. ....._._ 71?..i:a _ eA-L__ __,_,Jv ) , 7.---0„ A • .2. , .`(it "7-- _____a__.4._ ____ ___ I --'1":161.'-4-1.Z....LL) /.0. air/ . _.._:-.2t-''''.-'-'‘'''/...._ ri, _---,,.._„„„,, _ ___ ---..-------- G , . _ - • ;_____ ,. • , •:%•i" , i 1../) j l -' in ALI •. 1 _ )- I : >4- 1.-. ...42 -e- , 21A ( 4.1, //e--- ") • , c_---- - ---4-.„-- _ . AO' ' I - 3-6'7.",..a-1:- - ' aelp• - , - „- ---0 ej_ci...2)._..2...__eir .,- / )D (-- /Le, L- . I 3 c 6.iXt I &' ' ..7 :,.:1,0-%. .1.2) • .. ite2/1-4-1.------ Cti I 3e:.'i. ,I,J-4, t32_.__) 9 „......4..LL.„..Ae...„._ 0 .. , ra..e.t. , L2 I 3 0 qtz .. Lot i-€/ -fr-vi i) • .4V '-....assi -- I .. .. , ,........ NI c i_ t) c 0,r y l L i.„1; 4.1 a/La ci 0 tq __,- l,Ct.:- s Qr ,_,-..e:, /l c ;. _ 4,- Ec'.;.azi':.< P i .. , AVI7Iiif 0 0(7 )(-6 .- " ° /q.C- 0 3)-IL' ,.-,,g,1C-1--i: / / /..... ' . A Di2E3,3 (771_," 1-kicAll / , e_...4r.,a)/e 40r ,•?1,,.e,..?-} ..:5/ ..... — --/- - 4 II).-• 6_7,21_ a. /.64,‘ a..././/-.'2.e.z.i.?z,.:,,), 1),-4-1 . :,. 26-120-,1_1911,zeiL:k_ji4t. 3/5 / ave,dze)ite:4... ...,_- l'9.5 41IP..... - .,01 /1' n. ,, zie...2,2if2 . II -- -------/---- °-' ,-- • „ , c / 0 - Azit...„...._ __....0 ___ __________ __. ..- ________ 2- __.5 ' - ,-):---,--c---- /Gre%';--__.-5-7-''v.7;d4z;:.(1.te. ---/ •--,,,/,. —-,---7— V -7 " )/2-7 ' ,4---- -.5 3 (...,5---e-•*,-2-- -(-,,,. 2re /4.z."-- :--:::L... _: . 1 --C) 7,1- q• _ _ -,-- -1-N1 .-.'.1 _ 7. ...__. - .13-%'-' €1\-<:-.t----- ‘ 4.-L-7-47-1"--- ..b.;-.Z CA IviV kr Th.j'•-5-1-A-11 1:1 i • . - I .1 I.- i . ' - li ii 4,,,,1,./)1. 1.. i:[,' ' 't-ril, -IL 0 (4..(> . ---511A1.t'f•`(-7,1,0'.'.1Z/s, ,----_7‘,c--,' '. :.''':17-' 111 ..--- - —4(.--- - ).,;C: • ),,,,L____ 4.+4 ,1;Uju•-Q.--\ Cf(21 P.QPi\ -- Ak-■)--( ;-t.- .R- 3.1\'N\\"G kZ-•■_ I ._L. _-____ ' , —_ ____._ 1 ILZ6.zGIL'nAve4v- PLN,/imtr -h ;,2_---, i)-laci.1 \\_a ---\-\: c______" . ----,;(,7-,:c--..,. ‘.,-,._ , . - .,c) \E---rr 0,--)--k--1 • —____LtZ,' 1 1'1_< t'1..20 1.71.ilii:/;.P.)", "( 7 ;37-7'i, fil-ik 1 i - 0 / I ; , ......,,.. . ......,........._____ _, ,, . ,,, . , , __ ,_.,, ..._..,,._....„ , ,_ ....._,. . ..._„..., ,....._ ,, .. III, • .3/f, g-Tc---, ,..:■.t,7,::::,)A,,L..r7.C...-, 1 ai .,,-? 4AA-Mi-x,111‘.?,;::: i.k.).i:, ,,: . --:c•r 1 4";,:;I:.„, , -•- l.,,/ ;.,;, ..• • J .,,n-!..7 f , - -, IL i ''i ■ , „ - ,,c-i- 31. (-.1:-.... t: ,: 4. LL(./di- •/&":--, ‘,/ i -.. ,,--' , / ,:,,,y7 /r4_:,7 r--",.!,,,-/(,.-” , "1-.. Z %//•:C-. ,IK.,Li<Z---II i . • --76.ri.)-( ,/),,,•)./ ,..-2.32) (-5.-)1.',/,.;":•,./.• . ff.,/ ‘7.-1./ •!., /7,•`J 7)39. , >___ ...// / /__. iy;/ ._ __ /.,/ . / . , - " 4 i - (-/Z /(-__ • dr — /Li :2-S-96'1C) -- /-)-7 aliavt; A ., .c./o eew d, 111.4., --T.c..s ? / -"jii('. /t/a9)leg 6-61t 4 LI",...-1 , -)05 --74, 1,,,L u,,,,,,,L,„--- -, , _ LC ,>._ --t-IA c, c. ,r( .1.,•1--1 / (_. -t-'r'` `-' - -'--- ,/i k.— --, ,-- 1 oi /u i- , r . . I All- C K a,)kci..- i/1 o tt r"" .Ec',:ank:ar Petition A 41,(1 C 0, il Q e cl _:-0 f" -4-1.,(2-,.-- ,K (1-1‘_' c (1 k y I I•IA H-E, - A1)07.-ZESS I -')-I I- 19 11 _ //0 tk, z(Z. 14C,(, . ._. , ..., •...--n.--____) (- 9 () 1 --,,,,,, .40 _ ...•. .c.Edezieza..,... .L.,0_4(e.z.6e-2.. . Z_V:aice-)- -.L-ILP0-e-vcil*. /. 11-1.1.4.4att,,ilt7 I -.1.. ,e2_,......:0 ..., . ._,-.,.-,A64) . - I _ 2.4,...„-LA, - 44 ,„2----/..„2-, _ , .. .,.-._ // esz-,...„.. . az &2,92,7- .__ . • ._ 1 i , o f-r- • I I I -. 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SLL-2.1-,,), e"E Lid I _ . . ____ -%-) _ ,,J /C--'--, ::.-,___ , ,....4-- ---:- .7 ...- _c______ 3 . ,77 & . <5._) Z. x-i -?) )1-). , .--(a"--iiir'''',, ---- — - -- -- - --- • - --, i:,- 4a, / a . 02.- 7 „ II ::, , . Al .!, ,v0,5 6 t( p _libiki-c- 274-N(3. _L____.. . ... _._______ I tae ciza.zens o,_ ■.—. .iiIILI.L3Ii, Lp.li Ul.):,t)U4-)uU uU ■.,.. .- ,-.)..-.,u i—L—.:.;, u.._ II community and do not have a need for them here. i- F.,(7. r Po-; tinr, . , ITIX rE, _ )-1). \ K. _gattlkatra71210 }.,WLy . , ‘,C7C), ',) i d - .........-,.„...,:.o.. .......-.2.7..:..--•........_ - !-- ---..:1 I e,'''7"t_-- 1 _ ..' I -,i.i c- ..._ rjeZ., /. Afir zi-, - 2-7.45-e_.) ee-41-t.t.ic.;___de_24-r- -. -------- .. ;i --) ''' 7, 7 )),., ( '•-,,, "(-./ .,T./ E:',:,7"/ ._.?..4%'C- /... 7:t.:;.."'4'6' 2,e-.‘:_i____.C. :21\-e ._ . _ . ___ , -,fr----~---"--ii.---"-;----7.--.7:.T,---- 111 ..., , - / i,-,- .1 ''''''' —L.-. '-. .‘_;:(-......er.:!±.' 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CO-'o -k.'_Cf 76. 7-i, I aik44 Al- n at/- (i /Y)P^r-i-/y. ; ..., 2Y)L7' C/a A671 Aq L i- 0___ 10, -p,- 1/4_/el /k./< .F.0 :ar.,1=ar Pe t i t i.on T, - A D D7ZE 3 S .„... ily I L 1-:;i 7 LSO Irri C-fl LAJ ,,/...--,,Z- . ...j 4. .4.,......„ . ,/,‘,....- r...._ F._ 17 \ -,----/ I , 2.,......." . - '42--.22.e., . • ...A-______ 7/.. .d_ / ..._ _ . .- it. i ---r...,._____ __ 2 7[ 2_ Li TS c-, *----frit-f... t-i 816-"-- IY' - Lc 12 CI I L; - 1 100 1 0-,. 1-.. , _ * 1-' Li-i., I I I _ _... ...._._.....__ ________.______ ___________ I _ I ----,-.- --- - I _ ____.____._..__ - - • I _ _____ -- _ II - _ I _ . _ ._._________ .....__________.._____.____________________._ - I II .- ,-----'- MN _W e , -1-17-1-e. Clcicco.k a s5 0 0 C-1--, i 7.--eos, are 0 fp°s_e d ---i-o 6 ck aKi ka r s -i--i-ttul i r-1. .0 (A r k )rvi IA,a 0 l'-ky a yid do' ' r it,,, ha(le a 7-wed Car-- 41 .bc.-c.ariarj Pe t i t ion. , SerVice..5 17621 e. I 11 °' --_.-----)i V1(1 1---(--7 Zr .-fr--_ cl'61/2 ,i ,------€,/e:. (--.j.,..;--,- (`.../4--z- -7---„ 1 ./._.:-..r...7.7._____:__ __;---___.;i:_... Ika 46`;1- 4--" (' C (----- 113z, _ I ,4. ' Q_ 2.24-,A)A .P4 - _ Ur(c,, . , -. --c.:-tJ — , - I _,Iilik..c,,,,,,„, 1---_,-;_%_,,„r,,,-.:::; i L.,..,4 '9-bl:.1 1(. L,,, . ,, 14-, . je„,i,..e,1%. _ 1 , 1 •14C civC%r—ri 3 ti. 3 J-Le , • Y. (; e: (1) ci 7 I ' / 4,. /7 4/7, in- i I li *-1. y(-Z 1:-.:7. .1.(ic 4:17A-e c 441,a / . /..-.i..... ,,,..._-__2,--c...------ 6 3 0 ...._,,.",--- I ---:T- 1 cui- 4 i.14ti/j/ ,,, __... .-- 40 ll,i. IdAJLIE:,- . -6 c•A4,-,,,p &,,,,,_____ I ,--_ 44(1. _ _4,1..,,nr) l,r(A., -'1` ----r V - a--t-;-tc• i --_ _ _______ V-Fli: iV' a t)e c7tx..4.i,, 1 k- 4 • - gV inA,\i t.(4-:, _• , - p I :-"-./.:// ". r ' 7- '1 l e ___ ._4.- ___ i 14111' J---n 7C --' 8()kfic- L (:S7 q L-a-r do' an to 1 iNg• _fc2AL2-- Llik,,, 5.11-/ q-qq. , If4116 Atti±k Li-5c, t....,0....w.--e5,..... 6 I 110. _ _al ..c5- . _ _ __.!.„, 4_ I-7,D c/vvkii,x,-- ito• _... .v. X214, -...ULAL Q.t. 1 i, ._ , ___:, I zi-Pi• _ ,4,1.4. CL_CL•i-... ,,,•-t, -A-4— /5-c •7 (% t,,_.„ I, r.,, ."..---Q--- _ (2-m s2-- , --- coc, D_ ...(2 ,. _ (2,--,_(2.)• _ Ai--,- 4-:-::4.,1--1....-- S-02 (3., Z f ; A . __ I =I We, the citizens of Chanhassen, are oppose a to the su t,■,..t..ilits VI. 1.-il, --,-+-. -... I our community and ._do not have a need for them here- k ErIznvil!._•-)r P- 1 . - , I , NAI FE — A DIY2F2S . , /c/ - e / • , n i I 4iiq, L in - A r I -8;c • _(..____ , . ..):2z._.a2v.;__ ___...____ .e1/6 --iT.zzei. __' I //6/. ----7.---- -7-------------- .Z-N,... - 1-4'‘.._ _767 0& _---_-7;4010Z15- //i." : .- ...... _ L....- 'I ,-2) '. Z.,...‘ ....._ /.....1e..- 1..., „ .-I . 1 161/. :f:I4_,,—.._._7-4,4,,,,_ ___. _______ 7 L0j ‘3 Aa • i 1-'-''' • IdEe..L.._______----- i ,1 410 - ...:1:—. 1.. .4e.-t... _._. ._,... .e -..,... ..,-xio./..-_. 1..._ "7( I hi(z- „4.c.i1 A..._._. . -?11;7. _, e-: . .k.(2._ ,_ . i.7 , , , 11` _ - I '4(2$///. -1-.1.,1, 7 v.7 c Ilk / (`A ',,,, ,,,LE,./ Lt,,i1,.._ ....._____. __. IIt,/. A-) k--z, c ,. L,„,,.,,.L.., ? 5/)-c-}-• ---S-6,, .. --_, ) tilt, _ I..) - C.'. r., (ii\-" ,",.■..‹.""rjk-A., ) L) (71 -';-..i--' *r..'.--s- *C-'-ti L.C..2 V ' • ) 1 4 :I, -__. .t/t---19_--±-___ ---/)," I.5- .,4-)r.;'AZ2TRY,'Y) C;,),_1 .)') 1- - --I,- -7--, . ■ / Li-12,„,,...,Ati,i ,),_---tc yvc.(,,,-)..k-,-, ...•k_i3-- A\-11;.,1,-kix, c., --___1_ 1 I iriii -S)■Z,ir\;-_, , i(7 , ‘ 6,2 Ci 0 IL\\A&L) ._',"\ • . , . ...(-) I 7‘,...,,_. -, ., ,v ---2, - e--, --./ 6_:5- 2/1x(7), 12c- I - ! , ./ kli 1(17' :.,' ..7i(i 1 . ', C-Q1 A..Ct.1;())0-- fN C S2- (K(CL',at (-90i - I 11-n 49 — , R .:L , 1 161• ZTIi-)...."215- ZIA 1 . 1,..f-.2-.) -__. .1_3___LIDP.1..,._Lf- I/50 X-b7.2-- 575775/7 t . I Lig t , `'.-, ._____ . 11,0, -V I..._ ( 1-10- 1\ • __, —=-11---(i' lx,,,—J , Al ) We, the Chanhassen Citizens, are opposed to the settling of Eckankar in our community and do I have a need for their service( Lere. I Eclzaricar Petition HAI;Es - A DD?,EGS I 0, . d 5d / v) I _ I Wi . I L/ 7. . .67. - 1 ,".,,,.. .... _.. ..,.e„ _ _./..._____ 4w i- .4: _.c----Ce-e_ . . /<---c-,._ ,,, L , _i_ge__../_„ if,_--___.____________________ 176 ...../jo.,-/e 3.,...7,77,54//___ •-•/..7,7- ,,-/ A/7-cril - • tt ci 0. zi. 4:(4_41.2.2 , .2_00_2 C./Ley d. )1/../ (-, ZZa=-. ,/e75'.. elf/ Il -. __ Z._ , /3 Z D..4 , ,/ ..- • _ e•-t.ii irt2. -4ei At-z<41 7 ,F, .7_ 70% L.. ..--,„& ..... __A ti-qit. _.w.me.vv„L_____Luvu--•t—,-k-7, ----i_ /-1q6 - _ I qq6 , _V...L)1? _... ..$1.0„1,..„.„.„,,,,.,._, I au 6 __ _________— t C3z---e--.-C)e‘-\ \JItY■ C- 1-- =SS€ 1. 1 __ __ o e / kffl, _ - .._. , - ' , i-- g I 6 G.„..,,,, -7 --/La.--c-;" 61.4.444/4,z4e:, b 00 / J 1 . 61 DS-L-Lail-eC14 7- ' 1 • __Lb ( • ,. 1f j2„,--- e : 2 .602' abkLe. Lue__ a,__ 1-70 4pctecor, (2., . .5 _ IA\ 2,4_,L -L,Qji_. V_ a= szleca6)2, ez:- 0A4_,--) i 71/0„.cescitAcL.,,, . 05. __ 7,z)u.LiiAka L. czaffN . I i)(6,. __.4 V707.■ _ _....__7_,.. 7,-2, {, Cr I C) POPt/77 A C- L A An--. C AZA<Q_ I ,- . Im* \t,',, k____ .-Akt ; -K)o--1 , ca,„ c.:i2.. _____CL,, I _., V e, -1-1/Ye (_ li ti riko--5 s e i 1 c 6 c i 1 .-)1 t,1 i I CC kz I nkez r in 0(,1 ry- e a liv 1 vvi IA 0 l 1--y all - c Ec-:.an=c-ar Petition I NAITE — A DMESS I // Of ' 1 I :1 ,.._.... ./...: - z_.Z_____________ o , , J J / , ..._______, ___. , . I6,3 . ,z_ (z.„2:4 -ie C-4/1-ecA, t75-( 4 r e d LC!11-z-ez-e'ct- . I .615. deee_&. /..a 4 _._._____. ,i,..,__ /..-„,. _ , .___,A_ I 5i12, _ C..u. - -_. ... ______?-..-f. ..-.._ ..5.02.. 1-4 0 • a. L __ Q _cgin.L5 17 ---Lk..s.zai ---,_ coz •>e-c.lAe_ze._ C--ez.(1_. . I .:i.J 5/1. 416 _ ,_____________ I4/- , / v oy •' '¢.--C-':617)*" 1.1.7,7.__/_ ,,, LI i_e_21.-f,.. . ,,L. ... : - .-- 1 i I .,. - / Eff.....,ama....- ••• I -......risr..41Pr „ .. i -/-z?CY. /2 b- 1 i - 1 (' -; / ,./ ,,/ --, . / • ---7 ---, J . I . ,;<3. _l_ _IS4(1.,/,;I:-_____', - LL!:.:...,-.2j.i_j_if _'17- / (/.1(..1 C7C<--c73—L---- '1,.,(111)„Ii.j1,1 ,:l 1 /I —.-- 71:,--)C—i,"4/e/L.,-/t-4.-„2-•(_. 7 ....,_74-4--- ,c - ,:... b. • « _ Irt • () ti, - ' 'i I _52-‘1• ,__.....--2. 1.______i—_1.64..2.i.•±1x------ • '-'1• Cdt ..1_ I . g _ `-e- c_11?._„ ,Q ,,, — 27-1 i'VNA i4...,•N. LA)• C. .esen...-6-.0t. _ I - I _ _ _...__________._____ I 1.1 w e -II l Cia ii has-sen ( "iv-i zen5 ec r-e_ 0 pro 5 ec-C -1-0 -Gekt:0 Ke? r- ' ii-1111.61 ,-. a e cA r, 6'0,11'nliAn 11--/y I a rid do tic.-/- ,--' 7 Ve a ri eec.l ..(,)r -1.--he ce- De r N. . Ce s here Ec.:aticar Pet 1 t i on e T'IAI.IE A 1)7.) SS I • „ , , . ._ . „ -7-7----,------7--------,--- • , ___, 7 . _____--7;?z'i (),(64427/14evv_i_. 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"Man will take to religion, even if he has to invent one." 1 "Eckankar is the philosophy of...or what you know as the Cliffhangers...the basic axiom of this philosophy is: Power is the only force generated by Occult knowledge..."2 WHAT DOES ECKANKAR SAY ABOUT OTHER RELIGIONS? "The whole pack of them will start spouting something they have read in the scriptures... They quote Jesus as their authority and scream about His love for each of them personally. None of which is true!" 3 About Hindus--"Pseup-Masters," "Sheer snobs," "the worlds greatest filchers," and "filthy beyond conception." WHAT ARE THE PSYCHOLOGICAL DYNAMICS? (DO THEY PRACTICE MIND CONTROL?) "The chela (ECK student) must not make judgements of the Master nor of hills words."5 "Complete surrender to the ECK Master is the only path to total freedom."" "Also, the two years of required study in ECK, before reaching the stage when one can become an Initiate of the Second Circle, is really two years of disciplined obedience. One must learn to keen quiet, ask no questions, and to submit to that quality called "faith." 7 "Once any ECKist becomes a member of the Second Initiation and beyond,...he cannot ever resign from ECK...If such persons...ever attempt to resign or want to leave ECK for gny purpose, they shall find it not easy to do... They will run into terrible problems." Many know little about Eckankar and would like more information. Indeed, there are many subjects surrounding this issue. An important issue is the sociological side, which we are dealing with in this hand-out. We can look to history for examples of cults and the mind-control they placed on individuals to accomplish what the leader wanted. Two primary examples, from which we can learn, if we apply caution and use discernment are: 1) The Guyana Tragedy with Jim Jones; and 2) The Bhagwan Rajneesh Cult that took over the town of Antelope, Oregon in 1985. The decisions made here this evening will effect all of us, and our children, for a long time. We are up against an organization which paints a false picture for the public. (This characteristic is known as an "esoteric gap", which is very common among cults.) The following is an article printed by Spiritual Counterfeits Project, copyright 1979: "Eckankar is most certainly a multimillion dollar organization, thriving on the sales of literature, jewelry, and cassette tapes as well as membership dues...Although it is a large group, Eckankar has escaped the critical attention of the media; thus it has grown rapidly and without impediment by keeping a low profile...combining occult philosophy and mystical experience, big money, misrepresentation of origins, rampant spiritism, manifestation of psychic phenomena,...the leader as God,...indoctrination, and a form of attempted mind control--not to mention the standard "esoteric gap", that is, the difference between the image the group projects tothe public and the inner truths revealed to initiates (students &/or members). Eckankar is a child of the times we live in. It is an idea whose time has come, a product created to fill a need in our bustling cosmic marketplace. To those who are still out shopping, we can only say, "let the buyer beware..." Footnotes 1 � .84 Paul Twitchell, THE SHARIYAT-K.I-SUGNLAD (SanDiego: Illuminated Way Press; 1970-71), 2. Paul Twitchell, "The God Eaters," PSYCHIC OBSERVER, November 1964, p. 11 1 3. Twitchell, THE TIGER'S FANG (T,as Vegas: Eckankar ASOST, 1967) , p. 170 4. Paul Twitchell, THE ECK SATSANG DISCOURSES (Eckankar ASOSR, 1970-71) , first ser. , no. 2, p. 4 5.Twitchell, SATSANG DISCOURSES first ser,. no. 6, p. 4 6. Twitchell, PRECEPTS no. -8, �'• 5 7. Twitchell, SATSANG DISCOURSES, first ser,no. 12, p.5 8. Twitchell, SATSANG DISCOURSES, 3d ser,. no. 3, pp.3-4 IANN --N I 1 I I I I I - 3 '--l• ) I ', .../ -..* ••., I , - t-- ‘ ■- .-. )-.--., ---;:,\ ■) ri -, ...) - -' -,.. . , --, - . _ .. ..:, ,), ... ■ 1 . --. I N. -, ......,.. , ,..; ...; j -....., ...... N ^ ..‘ ...,' ) i• ) N. ) ...1 1, -si. .• ." ... `,....., -. NI C---- 'C' ---.." ... , --- , .•:) .,4 -\ I '-..--------) t? . N. ',.. S...; , ; 3 ■1 C.' ) I I I I I I I MI 271 ♦ECKANKAR 270 linguists.(One cult expert claims that ECKANKAR is a semantic perversion of"Ek Onkar,"the name of the supreme deity in Shabda Yoga.) Sudar Singh and Rebazar Tarzs designated Paul Twitchell to be the 971st living ECK Master,a mahanta (living manifestation of God).Twitchell says such a person is"above the laws of man. ..omnipotent and omniscient. .. ."The ECK Master's purpose in life is to lead the souls of men to"that realm of spirit which is known as the Kingdom of Heaven where God(known as SUGMAD)dwells."Life flows from SUGMAD in the form ,^ of a cosmic sound current called ECK.(ECK is also often t used as an abbreviation for ECKANKAR.)¶Ik ritchell taught a variety of occult exercises by which the ECK student could tune into this ethereal sound of God.Foremost among these phenomena is an out-of-the-body experience Twitchell originally called"bilocation,"and 4 later changed to"soul-travel,"which he declared is"the secret path to God."(Occultists generally refer to this ECKANKAR phenomenon as"astral projection.")Twitchell claims that Jesus,Buddha,and St.Paul indulged in the practice of bilocation. Of all the new religions to enter the spiritual marketplace The Shariyat-Ki-Sugmad are sacred ECKANKAR in this century,few are more confusing than ECKANKAR. scriptures which Twitchell declared to be located in a The individual who picks up one of their promotional monastery in the Tibetan mountains.Anami Lok is the pamphlets in the local grocery store may be intrigued by name given to the true heaven where SUGMAD dwells. so-called"ancient science of soul-travel."Followers of Atma Sarup is the soul body which travels astrally from ECKANKAR are often intelligent,well-meaning people the Nun Sarup, the physical("light")body.Such language who constitute an estimated membership of 50,000. (along with hundreds of other ECKANKAR-invented (ECKANKAR's leaders claim three million followers words)would be of little interest to the average person were it not for Twitchell's contention that by soul-travel worldwide.) one can achieve"omniscience...through the release of Paul Twitchell,a journalist and frequent dabbler in the soul from the bondage of flesh."In fact,ECKANKAR occult and mystical practices(including having served as claims to provide"a key to heaven."Even the inventions a staff member in the Church of Scientology),formed the of Alexander Graham Bell and the Wright brothers are restatement public ECKANKAR group in 1965.His theology,a restatement of Hinduistic precepts,teaches that said to be the result of astral journeys they made to a great ECKANKAR("co-worker with God")came into being as a museum in the capital of the spirit-world,Sahasra-dal-useu. result of his contact with the two ECK Masters,Sudar The outward image of ECKANKAR is friendly and Singh in India and Rebazar Tarzs in the Himalayas.No tolerant.An advertisement circulated in major documented proof has been presented that Twitchell newspapers stated that ECKANKAR"...does not ever visited either place or that either man actually condemn any person or teaching.If a person is involved existed.The terminology of ECKANKAR is said to come in any world religion,he is encouraged to stay there." from the Amdo dialect of the Tibetan language.Twitchell However,other statements found in ECKANKAR offered no explanation for claiming such expansive knowledge regarding this tongue,which is unverified by MI MI N - - MNI I MO N I 11. NM NM Ma MO MI . • r - MI • N - MI MI w - MI INN =I , MI - • . 1 li 272 MAJOR CULTS 273 ECKANKAR i r" J -r literature do not necessarily support this declaration. Master number 972 is Sri(an honorific Hindi title)Darwin In his book,ECKANKAR—The Key to Secret Worlds, " Twitchell described God as being"unconcerned about Gross.Gross claims to be God's guru for our age, "the any living thing in this universe.He is detached and most splendid specimen of manhood,the noblest of the unconcerned about man"(pg.42).Christ taught that love noble,""the most gifted spiritual leader alive today,"and is the greatest commandment,but"Mitchell asserted that "a healer who has rescued many from physical ills and Rebazar Tarts has instructed man to"love only those mental anguish."As the"Divine One,"he received Twitchell's"Rod of Power,"an event said to have taken whom you must!"Kal(an ECK word denoting the devil)is place in the spirit world since Twitchell died too identified in'Mitchell's theology as the Father of the suddenly for an orderly transfer of leadership.Now Gross Christian faith,and Jesus is"a son of Kal,King of the lower must continue"the longest unbroken line of spiritual worlds."The inclusive,conciliatory language used in teachers on this planet." ECKANKAR ads is contrasted by its published claims to The teachings of ECKANKAR according to Gross r be"the path of Total Awareness,""the everlasting continue'Mitchell's tradition.Of love he says,"Many are gospel,"and the one true source of all religions, "the teaching the masses to love everyone,to love their most ancient religious philosophy known to man."In neighbors,and that's fine,if it's with a detached love.You 'Mitchell's booklet, "ECK and Music,"he states, "The have to be very careful who you give love to."Morality is ECK,therefore,is the Way... .Without this heavenly described as"...an individual thing established by our music,or the WORD,no one can reach God again."Other I own inner authority"He supports abortion by declaring religions may not be openly condemned,but the I that the soul does not enter the body until".. .after the teachings of ECKANKAR certainly relegate them to an child has been brought into the outer world,and inferior position. sometimes later than that."According to Gross,animals To replace the Christian doctrines of sin and have a soul and their own heaven;Christianity adopted redemption,Twitchell proposes a Hinduistic concept of i the idea of the virgin birth from Hinduism;and the current karma and reincarnation.Those who wish to avoid the # countless cycles of rebirth must learn to ascend through a spiritual awakening is".. .not due to evangelists like Billy series of eleven astral planes by OBE's(out-of-the-body Graham.It is due to ECK Masters. experiences).Success on this journey depends on the ; Evangelical Christians are troubled by the spiritistic guidance of a Living ECK Master,who is assisted by other overtones of ECKANKAR.Others are skeptical about its spirit guides.This Master will facilitate astral travels by deified,authoritarian leadership.In"ECK and Music," helping the student discard the karmic debt he has i Twitchell addressed such apprehensions by saying, "If the individual is under the Living ECK Master,then he has accumulated in past lives. no worry,for the Master is taking care of him."("I am with The ECK Master is no mere way-shower.He is believed you always,"Twitchell's Master Rebazar Tarts once told to be god-in-the-flesh,an incarnation of SUGMAD.The him,an adaptation of Christ's promise in Matthew 28:20.) Master teaches the student that by sensory deprivation, i If ECK advocates believe that'Mitchell's Master altered states of consciousness,mantra-chanting, j appeared to him,the stage has been set for Master trancing,and contact with spirit guides,he can advance d number 971(Twitchell)to appear to his followers.A to higher planes of enlightenment.Twitchell claimed to i masquerading familiar spirit could easily assume the role have witnessed frequent appearances of entities who of'Mitchell(necromancy)to guide students of ECK asserted they were"translated"(ECKANKAR for"dead") onward to SUGMAD. Masters.Students are encouraged to think upon the current living Master until he,too,manifests himself to them as a glowing,light-entity. Founder:John Paul Twitchell,born sometime between On September 17, 1971,in a Cincinnati,Ohio,hotel 1908 and 1912 in Paducah,Kentucky(Twitchell's room,Paul Twitchell suddenly died of a heart attack.ECK biography claims a birthdate of 1922). 274 ♦MAJOR CULTS -/ `�' Symbols:A funnel-shaped series of ascending ovals representing the eleven astral planes or"God Worlds of ECK";a series of five stick-shaped human figures ascending horizontally(the fifth figure encircled), representing spiritual progress on the path of • ECKANKAR. Appeal:ECKANKAR offers dramatic psychic, out-of-the-body experiences and purports to give the student direct access to departed Spiritual Masters who appear as light-being entities.These astral projection abilities supposedly offer the opportunity to predict one's future,acquire healing,and eventually obtain omniscience.One practitioner claimed he would leave his body while driving to work so he could check traffic flows and avoid any bottled-up intersections which might be ahead. Purpose:Stated—"Soul travel is the means we use as the vehicle of return to our true home."Actual—To"invent" a new religion based on a variety of occult phenomena. Errors:Every cardinal Christian doctrine is denied, including original sin,intercessory prayer(called"an occult form of black magic"),the virgin birth,Christ as Creator and sole Incarnation of the Father,and the absolute goodness of God(Satan, "Kal,"is a partial manifestation of God's character).Participants of astral travel may make themselves vulnerable to demon possession. Background Sources:ECKANKAR—The Key to Secret Worlds, 1969,Paul Twitchell;"ECKANKAR—Ancient Science of Soul Travel,"pamphlet by Paul Twitchell; "ECK and Music," 1971,Paul Twitchell;Spiritual Counterfeits Journal, 9/79,vol.3,no. 1;"Open Letter to All Christians,"advertisement placed in various newspapers and paid for by ECKANKAR; Your Right to Know, Sri Darwin Gross, 1979,IWP Publishing,Menlo Park,CA. Address/Location:Box 3100,Menlo Park,CA 94024. MO EN NM NM MI MO — MN MI MO NM r MN MO MN NM — OM 1 3/2/89 Brian T . Ashley 609 Portland , St . Paul , MN 55102 ( 612 ) 228-9919 ' Steve Hanson C/0 City of Chanhassen PO Box 147 ' Chanhassen , MN 55317 Having noticed the controversy over the proposed Eckankar center in Chanhassen , I thought you might be interested in hearing from someone who had been involved with Eckankar , but is no longer connected with them . I was involved with Eckankar for a couple of years when I was in college 9 years ago . Their beliefs ' appeal to young adults and to the " spiritually searching" . Like many eastern style religions they believe in different planes of existence and out-of-body experiences . Unlike many of the cults that sprang up in the 60 ' s and ' 70 ' s they do not actively recruit new members , they do not encourage members to give up their possessions to ' the organization , they do not live communally , they do not wear strange clothes , shave their heads , beo for money or sell flowers on the street . One of their tenets is that each individual is personally responsible for their own actions and their own welfare . It is considered wrong for a member of Eckankar to attempt to convert another person to Eckankar . The reasoning is that if another person has a belief that works for them to convert them could cause confusion and spiritual harm . LIAR 19 6 1989 1 CITY OF CHANHASSEN cont . r I cannot say if the leaders of Eckankar are sincere , or if they are only in it for the money . I can say that Eckankar does not ask or require its members to give money to the organization . The only exception to this is a nominal yearly membership fee . (At the time I was involved this fee was about $10 ) r When I decided to no longer be involved with Eckankar I simply didn ' t renew my membership . There were no r questions asked and no pressure to remain a member . These people are very low-key , and very loosely organized . To my knowledge they have never "ruined" any neighborhood in which they have a center . If the City of Chanhassen decides not to issue a permit to Eckankar , perhaps you can tell the Eckankar people that the old Christmas Seal building in St . Paul r is for sale . It is across the street from my house and I wouldn ' t mind having them for neighbors at all . r Sincerely , ; may/ - , i Brian T . Ashley r r r r r 2 r r r I I ,A-- -fit``"' I ( _ `no r, ,�,Y., c I / � ' <-wit///C- ,Z L .- / /(/ v'_-.� ` ;„ 1_,,...). -/,/../. ' ' %t ;,a , 04- -/L/2L 1 L L<,) 10-0,?__kc ---.4"(P"---a '',.... L-,16/1.-:_,-.) re_(t „ ,, I ( c L/ �.. 4,--,(J_____ , L L c 3 6 2 L /L/_.-1 /2,"_) _ L�2 tZc .-c_LL z<)L ' /) i �� \---L _t IL'Z i r . 7/2 2 %Z(is�7i(' :'u !/JZL 7ti:!� ' - ' i, r i I _(46 >t l'_, (y_/a ' -% /Z'2C .i e'--Z/w ? - -_) '� �LL ' =_ ') L I1' Lr_ / '}l - / �4 _ I / /7, : 1`67 7 -- _ -s -a ' /'Z,L i 1--(_, . c. , '^ —)4L_ 3 ///`L Z i _ /.--- :7.--%I''L L, <-, 1 / ' T L/ =/i 1L' /1 _)%,_' , ' /r C c_ <<- = '= zL )� /e -<- !I r , ` . - ,.L�� - ) C/ '/�. L ii -1.,_ 6.:'14_,= /''7: _C)L' _i l''/'(-7 1.:J ,, _ �' % % t / z' ' L II �- �1 (- /' - ._,(' LZ '2L 1,1 __ / ..c,AJ L., ' - I i ___/_:-4 1 ___ )U ` - 7 ' 7t-r I (.._- FEB i ." ..y D 1989 Ic CY OF CHANHASSEN is - I City of Chanhassen March 32 , 1989 Honorable Mayor 11 City Council He: Eckankar Fiasco Dear Council: It is very dissapointing for me, a long time Chan- hassen resident, to see the City Council encourage a , group of "Witch Hunters" to deprive people of the very rights all Americans are entitled to enjoy. We can not , trample upon basic constitutional rights just because we don' t agree with the way they worship. The only question the Council should be considering ' is how to limit t'ie " tax exempt " status of land in Chanhassen_. This attempt should. be made now, before the I permit is obtained by Eckankar. Buying or condemming the land as proposed is not a 1 viable option at this time, legally or otherwise. Lets I get this embarassing ordeal behind us now, before Chan- hassen becomes more of a laughing stock. , Sincerely "M)• 1 M.J. Gorra APR 0 41989 MI OF.CHANHASSr_N ' •i / I ,c‘./ 'C /LS LL/LC c Jc" ! c h LL 7 cL r 7/ 1. l- � --1-2 - I 111 r>t_ {- IT G 16:4'c6 G4 1 7 r 6 'f t /(E- S 41 CC ' ( <f i4 f (1-7 S - ll<�s -��- � w�l d 6-4 Le G c--12 ‘<-77 ' ep (its X6((5//coy /t, yt�f u��tcle , aice7 11t,L ` ! 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' / c /1/ /// e L�? ��Q�l1 C It e`p fit �lts�%�U ?s . 4-dS_ 3 I ati 61- :L7 kicL cle) 71(e,_ zcAl i 1 Amot 3rn' 1 i 1 '--DvQ A S 1 R EckA 1 -76N) LA-5 P1-51e-Z-40' M1E_ iUE 1 You( 7-1-+17-,S E /C72i i C Liz's / Nc-7 1 U� '--bY NA-01 c "IQ FoieffnA77 0 ) - ”a) 72c_)-S N 1 PLE11-sz cALL C,%()E YoL-4_ 44-)L1 frimiE L7C-A)/-7fim/51-7. 4-),/. 1 jflJ 4-1-1-42)Y 1474- AIyD9 zhq--6? 66) 1 1 BAR 3 11989 CITY OF CHANHASSEN 1 • MAY ARE-A THE TRIBUNE Sunday,October 24,1982 **** D- 1:0,000 drawn to conference as Eckankar leaders speak By Bethany Korwin-Pawlowaka Arizona, Gross' home, claims a swer," Hovanesian said. sty there were some bad feelings Actually, he said, everyone's spiritual exercises. Tribune Staff Wnter membership of 3 million world- ECKists pray to Sugmad(God) on both sides and we're here to soul travels, but the ECKist does SAN FRANCISCO — William wide- by meditating on the word,"Hu." be sure it doesn't escalate into it"not to see what Joe is doing in William Phillips of Atlanta, e, Phillips of Atlanta joined Eckan- Eckankar claims 973 ECK Through meditation, "you anything physical." New York,"but in furtherance of engineer, attended his first 1 c:. kar'five years ago as an engi- masters, including the philos- learn who you are in relation to Eckankar holds three confer- his spiritual questioning. ankar seminar because his curl neering student after a flirtation phers Plato,Zarathustra and Za- the cosmos," said Todd Cramer, ences a ycaf;-th0"'World-WIdc� Deity about "occult phenomen., with the occult. He was interest- dok ("a contemporary of Jesus") a conference coordinator who be- ECK,'roee?or youth and one on "1�'hen you say daydreaming, was •piqued by the idea of a"sou. ed in the phenomenon of soul before the first modern master, longs to the 200-member East- creative arts."—'--' _-you are getting close," Hovane- travel training session." travel. Paul Twitchell, a Las Vegas bay chapter of Eckankar in Al- "We are not a cult," Cramer Sian said. "But with daydream- Glass maker Jack Hovanesian, newspaperman, who wrote 40 bany Chapters are also around said.'"We stress individual free- that you go to familiar places "I realized that the occult w." who lives in the southern Sierra, books on the subject. the Bay Area from Mill Valley to dam'and different social and cul- was that you know full of conjecture," Phillips sat on a spritual quest when he Twitchell died in 1971 and the San Jose, Membership in the tural styles." "With soul traveling you go to but he found an answer in Eck came to Eckankar for an answer leadership of the foundation was group costs $100. The best-known creative art of places that you haven't realized ankar. "Phenomena are just to the question, Who am I? passed to Gross, who passed it While ECKists met inside, the ECKist is soul travel, var- yet, through the levels of con- tricks. but ECK is totally differ The conference "Eckankar,.A last year to Klemp. pickets from the Berkeley-based iously described as daydreaming, sciousness." ent because there is no ultimate .tray Of L7fe-`3rew about 10,000 "Before coming to ECK, I Spiritual Counterfeits Project astral projection or the highest Manu Bentley of Honolulu level to be achieved." people Tor appearances _by spiri- went through all the religious Inc., a Christian anti-cult group, forrri of ECK consciousness. joined ECK on Saturday, the sec- "The Plus Principle," whir ua ewers, or-"ECK masters," things and even experimented distributed leaflets outside "It 'is a private thing," said and day of the three-day confer-. means that everybody's can T{a'fbTd-Kleiiip;as 7ormer printer, with mind control,but I still felt Brooks Hall that said. "Check Hovonesian. 'In fact, we're told once. "I was overwhelmed when sciousness can keep expandir„ and Darwin 'Gross," an ex-engi- an empty space inside," said your brains at the door." not to talk about it._ I read Twitchell's books two forever, is similar to infinity II neer. Hovanesian,a resident of Shaver Several Spiritual Counterfeits --'-ire sar'Til is because it Years ago,"she said. mathematics,he said. tiort w---Eckankar. th its founda- Lake who daughter to the conference.ere cee and rassedeby ECKipeople. been ha- would said you be drive a Cadillac, Coming as she did from a As for soul traveling itself ter in Menlo Park, where Klemp "With Eckankar when you One San Francisco police offi- it might make the other person Catholic prefers"dealing Bentley Phillips said, it's a lot lc said she prefers ghealing directly dreaming. 'I don't remember cv lives, and its spiritual center in have a question, there is an an- cer posted nearby said, "Let's feel inferior." with God" through the Eckankar erything that happens." f ' L. 110111 ME — EN — MI = — — OM — - - - ME — — all I I I Soul travelers move IReligious group shifts its headquarters from Menlo Park to site in Minnesota I By David Schrieberg of living in the Bay Area. Mercury News Staff Writer "You have to look at everything The world headquarters of Eck- from climate to living conditions," I ankar. a religious group whose he said. adherents practice "soul travel" Eckankar was founded in 1965 and "astral projection," have and, at its peak in the mid-1970s, moved from Menlo Park, after claimed 50,000 members, said I more than a decade,to new offices David Lane, an instructor at the in Minnesota. University of California at San An Eckankar official, Bob Diego who has researched and Majewski, confirmed Thursday written extensively about Eckan- that the organization moved to kar. I Minneapolis about a month ago But, he said, in recent years the from its one-story building next to organization has suffered severe Highway 101. financial problems resulting from Although he was reluctant to power struggles and lawsuits I discuss the group or its move, among its leaders. He said the Majewski said the decision was number of members — each of made after considering a number whom pays $100 annually — has of factors, including the high cost See ECKANAR, Page 3B I I - .. -r- `Astral projection' believers I move headquarters ' cicluarters to Midwest ,. ECKANAR,from Eckankar apparently had been I from Page IB dwindled to about 20,000. planning to leave the Bay Area for -,Spiritual Counterfeits Project, a Yom. In 1982, residents of Salem, Berkeley-based Christian research Ore., protested the organization's I group,calls Eckankar"a collective plans to move its offices to that mishmash of Eastern mysticism city. (and) Western occultism, with a Majewski said that he was heavy emphasis on astral projec- unaware of the group's problems I tlon and soul travel." -Eckists, as they rail themselves, in Oregon, but that the organiza- tion had considered other cities believe that members are guided before settling on Minneapolis. through astral realms by the Liv- ing Eck Master, Eckan tar's spin- Despite the recent move, ' 'ial leader. They say they leave Majewski said, centers in Palo �. bodies and travel to a higher Alto, Sunnyvale and San Francisco .,AT. are still operating. I I I .. i _ e.P 22.4 -- _ 111 t_O-A__ ' .,a MAR 3. 0 19 CITY OF CHANHAt4 ALL* IPA - f/a• , 16 ...—. 1 WLt OLLi DiOt_ _ rct./Lc132/_,L_LCat___ -)\4 A (.10-c_t -1 I • ) * to - fiL(±4\-52,A#21.05-1IC .6ttA>ei:Ir'n■ \LI/ A , nprttl _ 70$101,114_,aktxt"-±,/}A...at—±hl NJ • • _ b - A _ VaDnarall_ MEM I I I I I - - Cc P ,/ • S ---1 g? /7/tisi" I I 42_4,Z. • ..i I i 1.1 r..A - ! • Awk..rft • IL. ,0 I v A a & . r(\ , .. A ll• ', .: ... ...rsrP,A,M.a . I A_Q__.- (342. .mi,_____ter- ..,12.1aDJA.. p • I i' PA I i I . a It 40 I r „ , t-, .i I 3, drami2- I _ .--,)1 _ al_p\s__ • * 411 AAA_ . .• 2 lit mt . 1 )(_) , . i 11 I -- 1 f L.tLe. 0 _-_ - ,A_ ,O'JAL . . ! • I . v YLL i .. .s. .;. • • ) oit I) /44 tsrr., . A _____113.21_YAICA___,-:, ‘-t -W-A-Crj .7021_15-fiLlri I -LAJCL) j.71,f1.±.. 1-nr1.0-t:,± :^rraymlf),,Q,_ _A.,z_FLL2aLEnt__th412.1:A___ I ----i I ,LnD iv. rfulioLto- M, :qv La,'" v I77/1- irfrut.13.4r5-“-- ' I _ _ _ • 1 .. ) PA A ti- 1 ,1 • il„ii 4p I 1 1 Mrs. Leneda Rahe 1021 Carver Beach Road Chanhassen, NH 55317 March 12, 1989 i Dear Mr. Dan Ashworth: I am writing regarding a multi-million dollar tax-exempt organization, I called Eckankar, that calls themselves a church. I live in Chanhassen, where this group is planning to build on 174 acres of property -that lies in the heart of our residential zoning district. I have four questions that I do not know how to get answered, and wondered if you could help. 1) How can a multi-million dollar tax-exempt organization receive this status when they do nothing to contribute to a community?; 2) When was the last thorough IRS investigation done on Eckankar?; 1 3) Is it true the IRS has added 50 more staff to investigate tax- exempt groups such as this?; and I 4) What must be done in order to prompt an investigation of this organization before the residents of Chanhassen are taken ad- vantage of any further? ([•!e are the third highest taxed sub- erb in the metropolitan area, and have already been paying their property taxes for three years.) Thank you for your attention and concern in regards to this timely issue. Yours truly, / / Zr Leneda Rahe 474-0,90 1 1 1 1 MAR 15 1989 -1 r OF CHANHASSENI