pc_06 03 2010
LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
PLANNING – REZONING – CONDITIONAL USE HEARING
MINUTE RECORD
JUNE 3, 2010
4:00 P.M.
I. Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum
A Quorum was present being ten (10) in number.
II. Members Present: Tom Brock
William Changose
Marcus Devine
Dan Harpool
Troy Laha
Obray Nunnley, Jr.
Bill Rector
Billy Rouse
Candice Smith
Jeff Yates
Members Absent: J. T. Ferstl
City Attorney: Debra Weldon/Tom Carpenter
III. Approval of the Minutes of the April 22, 2010 Meeting of the Little Rock
Planning Commission. The Minutes were approved as presented.
LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
PLANNING – REZONING – CONDITIONAL USE HEARING
JUNE 3, 2010
4:00 P.M.
I. OLD BUSINESS:
A. Z-6957-N Lot 20, Colonel Glenn Centre Business School and
Retail Center – Conditional Use Permit
SE Corner of Colonel Glenn Square and Commercial
Centre Drive
B. Z-8535 Vance Accessory Dwelling – Conditional Use Permit
1801 Fair Park Blvd.
C. Z-3276-F Davis Auto Detail – Conditional Use Permit
125 Gamble Road
II. NEW BUSINESS:
Item Number:
File Number:
Title
1. G-23-419 Bishop Street – Right-of-Way Abandonment
Between West 17th and West 18th Streets
2. G-23-420 West 17th Street – Right-of-Way Abandonment
Immediately east of Marshall Street
3. Z-7744-A Under Grace Ministries Parolee Housing Facility –
Special Use Permit
10905 West Markham Street
4. Z-8552 Powell Day Care Family Home – Special Use Permit
7808 West 25th Street
5. Z-8553 Pippins Day Care Family Home – Special Use Permit
5304 Keats Drive
6. Z-3592-M Pinnacle Classical Academy Private School –
Conditional Use Permit
11001 Kanis Road
7. Z-5427-B Huffman Office Warehouse – Conditional Use Permit
SE corner of Kanis Road and Cherry Brook Drive
Agenda, Page Two
II. NEW BUSINESS: (CONTINUED)
Item Number:
File Number:
Title
8. Z-5468-A Western Hills Methodist Church Day Care Center –
Conditional Use Permit
4601 Western Hills Avenue
9. Z-6425-C Little Rock Urban Prep Charter School – Conditional
Use Permit
6711 West Markham Street
10. Z-7066-A Ross Adult Day Care Center – Conditional Use Permit
2506 S. Valentine Street
11. Z-8551 Pippins Adult Day Care Center – Conditional Use
Permit
3819 Baseline Road
12. Z-8554 Lot 2, Biehslich Addition Hotel – Conditional Use Permit
6100 S. University Avenue
13. G-25-207 Wright Avenue Street Name Change to Annie
McDaniels Abrams Avenue
Wright Avenue, from Chester to Woodrow Streets
14. Presentation of Proposed Amendments to Chapters 31 and 36 of the
Code of Ordinances
15. LU10-09-01 Land Use Plan Amendment in the I-630 Planning
District generally along 12th Street to Office,
Commercial, Mixed Use, Public Institutional and Mixed
Use-Urban
16. A revision of the River Market Design Overlay District (Sec. 36-350
through Sec. 36-367).
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June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: A FILE NO.: Z-6957-N
NAME: Lot 20, Colonel Glenn Centre Business School and
Retail Center – Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: SE corner of Colonel Glenn Square and Commercial
Centre Drive
OWNER/APPLICANT: Colonel Glenn Centre, Inc./McGetrick and McGetrick
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for
construction of a building to contain a business school
and retail center on this C-4 zoned, 5.3± acre tract.
STAFF REPORT:
On April 6, 2010, the applicant requested deferral of the item to the June 3, 2010
meeting. Staff recommends approval of the deferral request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (APRIL 22, 2010)
The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented
the item and informed the Commission of the applicant’s deferral request.
There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda
and deferred to the June 3, 2010 agenda. The vote was 11 ayes, 0 noes and
0 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
On May 24, 2010, the applicant requested that the item be withdrawn. Staff
recommends approval of the withdrawal request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed
the Commission that, on May 24, 2010, the applicant had requested withdrawal
of the item. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the
consent agenda and approved for withdrawal by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and
1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: B FILE NO.: Z-8535
NAME: Vance Accessory Dwelling – Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: 1801 Fair Park Blvd.
OWNER/APPLICANT: Rick Vance
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow
conversion of the existing accessory building on this
R-3 zoned lot into an accessory dwelling.
STAFF REPORT:
On April 8, 2010, the applicant requested deferral of the item to the June 3, 2010
meeting. Staff recommends approval of the deferral request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (APRIL 22, 2010)
The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented
the item and informed the Commission of the applicant’s deferral request.
There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda
and deferred to the June 3, 2010 agenda. The vote was 11 ayes, 0 noes and
0 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
The applicant has not responded to issues raised at the April 1, 2010 Subdivision
Committee meeting. Staff recommends deferral of this item to the July 15, 2010
Commission meeting.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed
the Commission that the applicant had not responded to issues raised at the
April 1, 2010 subdivision committee meeting. Staff recommended deferring the
item to the July 15, 2010 commission meeting. There was no further discussion.
The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved for deferral by a vote
of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: C FILE NO.: Z-3276-F
NAME: Davis Auto Detail – Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: 125 Gamble Road
OWNER/APPLICANT: Dorothea Davis
PROPOSAL: Revised conditional use permit to allow continued
operation of an existing auto detail shop.
STAFF REPORT:
On February 10, 2010, the applicant requested deferral of the item to the June 3,
2010 meeting. Staff recommends approval of the requested deferral.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 11, 2010)
The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed
the Commission that, on February 10, 2010, the applicant had requested deferral
of the item to the June 3, 2010 meeting. There was no further discussion. The
item was placed on the consent agenda and approved for deferral by a vote of
9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
On May 4, 2010, the applicant advised staff that she wished to withdraw the
application. Staff recommends approval of the withdrawal request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed
the commission that, on May 4, 2010, the applicant had requested withdrawal of
the item. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent
agenda and approved for withdrawal by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 1 FILE NO.: G-23-419
Name: Bishop Street – Right-of-Way Abandonment
Location: Between West 17th and West 18th Streets
Owner/Applicant: Arkansas Baptist College/Robert Turner
Request: To abandon the sixty (60) foot wide Bishop
Street right-of-way located between West 17th
and West 18th Streets
Purpose: Pedestrian traffic/use area
PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant proposes to abandon the sixty (60) foot wide Bishop Street right-of-
way located between West 17th and West 18th Streets (between Blocks 37 and
38, Centennial Addition) (60 feet by 300 feet). The abandonment is being
requested in order to use the area as a pedestrian traffic/use area in conjunction
with the Arkansas Baptist College campus.
STAFF REVIEW :
A. Public Need for this Right-of-Way:
As noted in paragraph G., none of the utilities object to the abandonment
request. Three (3) of the utilities request the area be retained as a utility
easement due to existing service lines. The Public Works Department
comment is as follows:
1. Drainage easements should be maintained in the right-of-way to
convey storm water from adjacent property.
B. Master Street Plan:
There are no Master Street Plan issues associated with this abandonment
request, as the right-of-way is not classified as a collector street or higher.
C. Characteristics of Right-of-Way Terrain:
The area of right-of-way currently contains approximately thirty (30) feet of
pavement with curb and gutter along both sides.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-419
2
D. Development Potential:
After abandonment and development of the new student housing facility,
the area of abandonment will be used as a pedestrian traffic/use area.
E. Neighborhood and Land Use Effect:
Arkansas Baptist College facilities are located along the west side of the
right-of-way, including a multi-purpose building and gymnasium. One (1)
of the properties along the west side of the right-of-way (1718 Bishop
Street) is not yet owned by the college. The area of right-of-way is
currently fenced and being used as a construction staging area for
construction of a new Arkansas Baptist College student housing facility
(previously approved by Planning Commission) along the east side of the
right-of-way. Site work is currently taking place for the new facility.
F. Neighborhood Position:
The Central High and Downtown Neighborhood Associations were notified
of the abandonment request. As of this writing, staff knows of no
objectors to the abandonment request.
G. Effect on Public Services or Utilities:
Wastewater: No objection to abandonment. Retain area as utility
easement for existing sewer mains.
Entergy: No objection to abandonment.
CenterPoint Energy: No objection to abandonment. Retain area as utility
easement for existing natural gas facilities. CenterPoint Energy will
retain ingress/egress to the existing facilities.
AT& T (SBC): No objection to abandonment.
Water: No objection to abandonment. Retain area as utility easement for
existing water facilities.
H. Reversionary Rights:
This one (1) block section of Bishop Street was platted with the Centennial
Addition, between Blocks 37 and 38. Once abandoned, the right-of-way
will be split equally between the lots or either side of the right-of-way area.
According to an abstract company, there are no recorded reversionary
rights for this right-of-way.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-419
3
I. Public Welfare and Safety Issues:
Abandoning this right-of-way will have no adverse impact on the public
welfare and safety. The Little Rock Fire Department has reviewed and
approved the abandonment request.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 13, 2010)
Robert Turner was present, representing the application. Staff presented the
application and explained the proposed right-of-way abandonment. Staff noted
that there were no outstanding issues associated with the abandonment request,
and that the right-of-way area would be retained as a utility easement.
After a brief discussion, the Committee forwarded the issue to the full
Commission for resolution.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested Bishop Street right-of-way
abandonment, subject to the entire area of abandonment being retained as a
utility and drainage easement.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented
the item and a recommendation of approval. There was no further discussion.
The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by
staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 2 FILE NO.: G-23-420
Name: West 17th Street – Right-of-Way Abandonment
Location: Immediately east of Marshall Street
Owner/Applicant: Arkansas Baptist College/Robert Turner
Request: To abandon the sixty (60) foot wide West 17th
Street right-of-way located immediately east of
Marshall Street, running for approximately 1 ½
blocks.
Purpose: Pedestrian traffic/use area
PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant proposes to abandon the sixty (60) foot wide West 17th Street right-
of-way located immediately east of Marshall Street, running for 1 ½ blocks
(between Blocks 29 and 37 and Blocks 28 and 38, Centennial Addition) (60 feet
by approximately 510 feet). The abandonment is being requested in order to use
the area as a pedestrian traffic/use area in conjunction with the Arkansas Baptist
College campus.
STAFF REVIEW :
A. Public Need for this Right-of-Way:
As noted in paragraph G., none of the utilities object to the abandonment
request. Four (4) of the utilities request the area be retained as a utility
easement due to existing service lines. The Public Works Department
comment is as follows:
1. Drainage easements should be maintained in the right-of-way to
convey storm water from adjacent property.
B. Master Street Plan:
There are no Master Street Plan issues associated with this abandonment
request, as the right-of-way is not classified as a collector street or higher.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-420
2
C. Characteristics of Right-of-Way Terrain:
The area of right-of-way currently contains approximately thirty (30) feet of
pavement, with curb and gutter along the north side of the right-of-way.
The area of pavement currently functions as a one-way street (east to
west) from Martin Luther King Drive to Marshall Street. The north half of
the pavement is utilized as angled parking spaces for the Arkansas Baptist
College campus.
D. Development Potential:
After abandonment and development of the new parking facility to the
south, the area of abandonment will be used as a pedestrian traffic/use
area.
E. Neighborhood and Land Use Effect:
Arkansas Baptist College facilities are located on the north and south
sides of the right-of-way. The college owns the vacant lots on the south
side of the right-of-way (southeast corner of West 17th Street and Marshall
Street), which will be developed into a campus parking lot in the near
future (previously approved by Planning Commission).
F. Neighborhood Position:
The Central High and Downtown Neighborhood Associations were notified
of the abandonment request. As of this writing, staff knows of no
objectors to the abandonment request.
G. Effect on Public Services or Utilities:
Wastewater: No objection to abandonment. Retain area as utility
easement for existing sewer mains.
Entergy: No objection to abandonment.
CenterPoint Energy: No objection to abandonment. Retain area as utility
easement for existing natural gas facilities. Centerpoint Energy will
retain ingress/egress to the existing facilities.
AT& T (SBC): No objection to abandonment. Retain area as utility
easement for existing facilities.
Water: No objection to abandonment. Retain area as utility easement for
existing water facilities.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-420
3
H. Reversionary Rights:
This 1 ½ block section of West 17th Street was platted with the Centennial
Addition, between Blocks 29 and 37 and Blocks 28 and 38. Once
abandoned, the right-of-way will be split equally between the lots on either
side of the right-of-way area. According to an abstract company, there are
no recorded reversionary rights for this right-of-way.
I. Public Welfare and Safety Issues:
Abandoning this right-of-way will have no adverse impact on the public
welfare and safety. The Little Rock Fire Department has reviewed and
approved the abandonment request.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 13, 2010)
Robert Turner was present, representing the application. Staff presented the
application and explained the proposed right-of-way abandonment. Staff noted
that there were no outstanding issues associated with the abandonment request,
and that the right-of-way area would be retained as a utility easement.
After a brief discussion, the Committee forwarded the issue to the full Commission
for resolution.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested West 17th Street right-of-way
abandonment, subject to the entire area of abandonment being retained as a
utility and drainage easement.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented
the item and a recommendation of approval. There was no further discussion.
The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by
staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 3 FILE NO.: Z-7744-A
NAME: Under Grace Ministries Parolee Housing Facility –
Special Use Permit
LOCATION: 10905 West Markham Street
OWNER: Tisdale Properties and Development, LLC
APPLICANT: Under Grace Ministries, Inc./Randy Frazier
PROPOSAL: A Special Use Permit is requested to allow a
Parolee Housing Facility to be operated in the
existing structure located on the C-3 zoned property
at 10905 West Markham Street.
A. Public Notification:
All owners of property located within 200 feet of the site, all residents
within 300 feet who could be identified, and the Birchwood Neighborhood
Association were notified of the public hearing.
B. Public Works Issues:
1. Markham Street is classified on the Master Street Plan as a minor
arterial with special design standards. A dedication of right-of-way
thirty-five (35) feet from centerline will be required.
2. The structure is located within the 100-year floodplain of Rock Creek.
C. Staff Analysis:
10905 West Markham Street is located on the south side of West
Markham Street, west of Shackleford Road. A one-story apartment
building (Hidden Creek Senior Apartments) currently occupies the site.
The building is located near the center of the site. There is paved parking
on the north side of the building. Two (2) drives from West Markham
Street (one entry only, one exit only) serve as vehicular access to the site.
A gravel driveway extends along the west side of the building and leads to
a service area at the southwest corner of the building. There are two (2)
small accessory storage buildings in the rear yard area.
The properties to the north, east and west are zoned C-3 and contain a
mixture of commercial uses, including restaurants, retail and hotel/motel
uses. The property immediately south is zoned OS to recognize a
floodway area. The Birchwood single-family neighborhood is located
across the floodway further south.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7744-A
2
The applicant, Under Grace Ministries, proposes to utilize the existing
apartment structure as a Parolee Housing Facility. The facility will have
an initial occupancy of approximately ten (10) residents with a gradual
increase of up to sixty (60). The residents will be required to pay rent to
live at the Center and will be housed in apartment units in the same
configuration as the units presently exist. They may reside at the Center
for up to two (2) years. The program for the residents is voluntary and the
residents may leave the program at any time on their own volition or
Under Grace Ministries may remove them from the program if they are not
complying with its requirements or are not paying rent.
The applicant provided the following additional information with respect to
operation of the facility:
“The Center will work in collaboration with the Department of
Community Corrections (“DCC”) and local colleges to offer
residents of the Center the opportunity to become better
citizens and family members by furthering their education,
enhancing their life skills and participating in community
development. Residents of the Center will include both men
and women but will not include violent criminal offenders or
sex offenders. They will be selected using a thorough
process which will include personal interviews, vocational
assessments, psychological assessments, and performance
in the DCC. The programs at the Center will include
mandatory employment, participation in twelve-step
recovery, attendance of process group meetings,
participation in Celebrate Recovery, and pursuit of spiritual
education and life skills classes. A high school diploma or
equivalency will be required for acceptance into the program
and residents will be expected to pursue a higher education.”
“Under Grace Ministries intends to make some renovations
to the existing apartment building on the property. Some
renovations may require permits from the City of Little Rock,
but there will be no increase in the size of the building or
other improvements constructed on the property.”
Section 36-54(e)(4) of the City’s Zoning Ordinance provides the following
provisions, as adopted by the Board of Directors on September 6, 2005:
(4) family care facility, group care facility, group home,
parolee or probationer housing facility, rooming, lodging
and boarding facility.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7744-A
3
(a) Separation, spacing and procedural requirements for family
care facilities, group care facilities, group homes, parolee or probationer
housing facilities and rooming, lodging and boarding facilities will be
determined by the planning commission so as not to adversely impact the
surrounding properties and neighborhood. Unless the commission
determines that a different area is more appropriate, a neighborhood shall
be defined as an area incorporating all properties lying within one
thousand five hundred (1,500) feet of the site for which the permit is
(b) There shall be a presumption that a special use permit for a
group home of 5, 6, 7, or 8 handicapped persons will be granted if all
ordinance requirements are met, except that individuals whose tenancy
would constitute a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals
of whose tenancy would result in substantial physical damage to the
property of others shall not be allowed in such a home.
(c) Issues that the planning commission will consider during its
review of a family care facility, group care facility, group home, parolee or
probationer housing facility, or rooming, lodging and boarding facility
include, but are not limited to:
1. Spacing of existing similar facilities.
2. Existing zoning and land use patterns.
3. The maximum number of individuals proposed to be
served, the number of employees proposed and the type of
services being proposed.
4. The need and provision for readily accessible public or
quasi-public transportation.
5. Access to needed support services such as social services
agencies, employment agencies and medical service
providers.
6. Availability of adequate on-site parking.
(d) The fire marshal must approve the use of any structure
proposed as a family care facility, group care facility, group home, parolee
or probation housing facility or rooming, lodging and boarding facility.
(e) Family care facilities, group care facilities, group homes and
parole or probation housing facilities shall be operated within any and all
applicable licensing and procedural requirements established by the State
of Arkansas.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7744-A
4
According to an area survey, there are no other similar residential-type
facilities within 1,500 feet of the property. The site is located on CATA
Bus Route #5 (West Markham Route). Additionally, the applicant has not
submitted bill of assurance information for this property.
At the May 13, 2010 Subdivision Committee meeting the applicant was
asked to provide information with relation to the total number of paved
parking spaces which exist on the site. As of this writing, the applicant
has failed to submit the requested information.
Section 8-406(a) of the City’s Buildings and Building Regulations
Ordinance (minimum area per dwelling unit) requires 150 square feet for
the first occupant and 100 square feet for each additional occupant.
Section 8-406(b) (minimum area per bedroom) requires 70 square feet for
the first occupant and 50 square feet for each additional occupant. Staff is
unsure as to whether the applicant’s plans for resident occupancy will
comply with these ordinance standards.
Staff is not supportive of the requested special use permit to allow a
parolee housing facility at 10905 West Markham Street. Staff does not
feel that this will be an appropriate location for this type of residential
facility. The property is located in an area of commercial zoning, with
surrounding uses including retail, restaurant and hotel/motel. Staff
believes that if the Hidden Creek Senior Apartments were to close,
commercial redevelopment of this property would be most appropriate.
Staff also has concerns with the total (60) number of persons proposed to
live in this facility. Staff is unsure as to whether the individual apartment
units are large enough to house this many residents. Additionally, staff
does not know whether the site contains enough paved parking to serve
the proposed residential use. Staff’s overall concern is that this property is
not an appropriate location for this type and size of parolee housing
facility.
D. Subdivision Committee Comments: (May 13, 2010)
Paul Chapman and Randy Frazier were present, representing the
application. Staff briefly described the proposed special use permit. In
response to questions from staff, Mr. Chapman noted that the facility
would include 23 apartment units with two (2) employees. In response to
a question from the Committee, it was noted that Under Grace Ministries
would purchase the property. The Public Works Comments were
discussed, in particular floodplain issues.
Randy Frazier made comments to the Committee, noting that Under
Grace Ministries should not have to go through the Special Use Permit
process for the proposed use.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7744-A
5
After the discussion, the Committee forwarded the application to the full
Commission for final action.
E. Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends denial of the requested Special Use Permit to operate a
parolee housing facility at 10905 West Markham Street.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
Randy Frazier, Paul Chapman, Warren Woodham, Drew Baker, and Mike
Robinson were present, representing the application. There were two (2)
objectors present. Staff presented the application with a recommendation of
denial.
Randy Frazier addressed the Commission in support of the application. He
explained that the proposed use did not fit the definition of parolee housing
facility, and reviewed the definition. He explained that persons living in this
facility would be through the Department of Community Corrections, and noted
that he felt the proposed use did not need a special use permit. Tom Carpenter
noted that parolees of the Department of Community Corrections were through
the Department of Corrections. This issue was briefly discussed.
Randy Frazier made additional comments in support of the application. He
explained that this was an appropriate location for the proposed use, which
would be as apartment-type use. He noted that none of the residents would be
violent or sex offenders. He stated that anyone could rent an apartment at this
location.
Warren Woodham also spoke in support. He explained the history of Under
Grace Ministries and its programs. He explained specifics about the proposed
use, and who would be involved in the program. He explained that this was an
ideal location for the proposed use, with commercial uses in the area for
employment and a bus route.
Drew Baker also spoke in support. He explained that this was a good location for
the proposed use. He noted that this type of transitional residential facility was
needed. He explained that the typical resident was a drug offender.
Jacob Chi addressed the Commission in opposition. He noted that his family
owned several businesses in the area. He explained that the parolee housing
facility was not an appropriate use of the area. He noted the use should be
located at a quieter location with little traffic.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7744-A
6
Steven Hester, representing Shotgun Dan’s restaurant, also spoke in opposition.
He explained that Shotgun Dan’s had been there for 25 years. He explained that
the current use of the property was senior apartments, and the proposed use
was largely different and not appropriate for the area.
Mr. Frazier explained that the facility will be a controlled environment. He noted
that the property was probably not viable for a future commercial use. He
explained that the proposed parolee housing facility was a good use for the
property.
Commissioner Changose asked about the issue of separation of uses. Tony
Bozynski, Director of Planning and Development, noted that there were no
similar uses in the area. Commissioner Changose asked if Under Grace
Ministries had an alternate location for the proposed facility. Mr. Woodham
stated that there was no alternate location.
Commissioner Rector asked about specifics of the program and if they were
conditions of the application. Mr. Frazier briefly discussed the proposed
program. Commissioner Nunnley asked if there would be on-site supervision.
Mr. Woodham stated that there would be supervision.
Commissioner Laha asked if any of the persons representing the application
lived within one-quarter mile of the property. None of the applicants responded.
There was additional discussion of the proposed use. There were additional
comments related to security and number of employees. Dale Shopp noted that
he would be director of the facility and that he would be one (1) of three (3)
employees at the facility.
There was additional discussion related to the Department of Corrections and
what conditions would be placed on the application.
Commissioner Changose explained that the specifics of the program should be
conditions of the application.
Commissioner Devine explained that the property would function as an
apartment complex for parolees with conditions and supervision of the
Department of Community Corrections and Under Grace Ministries.
Commissioner Nunnley commented on the concentration of parolees at one (1)
location.
Chairman Yates asked how many units were in the building. Mr. Frazier stated
that there were 23 apartment units. Chairman Yates asked if there was sufficient
parking on the site. Staff stated that the ordinance required 34 parking spaces
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7744-A
7
and that the applicant had committed to providing the appropriate parking spaces
if they did not currently exist.
There was a motion to approve the special use permit application. The motion
failed by a vote of 1 aye, 8 nays, 1 absent and 1 abstention (Smith).
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 4 FILE NO.: Z-8552
NAME: Powell Day Care Family Home – Special Use Permit
LOCATION: 7808 West 25th Street
OWNER: Betty J. Powell
APPLICANT: Betty J. Powell
PROPOSAL: A Special Use Permit is requested to allow a Day
Care Family Home to be operated in the single family
residence located on the R-2 zoned property at
7808 West 25th Street.
A. Public Notification:
All owners of property located within 200 feet of the site, all residents
within 300 feet who could be identified, and the John Barrow
Neighborhood Association were notified of the public hearing.
B. Staff Analysis:
7808 West 25th Street is located on the north side of West 25th Street,
between Quebec Drive and Montreal Drive. The properties to the east,
west and south are zoned R-2 and contain single-family residences.
Properties to the north are zoned R-2 and R-4.
The applicant’s home is a two-story brick and frame residence, and is
typical of those in the general area. The rear yard is fenced and should
provide a safe play area. The applicant proposes to operate the day care
family home from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The
applicant notes that she cares for three (3) children for one (1) parent after
hours from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m.
to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday. The applicant has also noted that she will have
one (1) employee, her daughter, who also resides at this location.
There is a two-car wide driveway from West 25th Street, with parking for
six (6) vehicles including the garage. Staff feels this will allow sufficient
space for drop-off and pick-up of children. On inspection of the site, staff
observed no vehicles parked on unpaved areas. Staff also observed no
vehicles on the site which are not operational.
The applicant is currently providing care for five (5) children at this
location, and has been doing so for two (2) years. The applicant is in the
process of being licensed by the State for up to ten (10) children.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8552
2
The principal use of the property will remain single family residential. No
signage beyond that allowed in single family zones will be permitted.
The applicant submitted a copy of the Bill of Assurance for this
neighborhood which was recorded in 1963. It contains the following
language with respect to land use:
“LAND USE AND BUILDING TYPE. No lot shall be used
except for residential purposes. No building shall be
erected, altered, placed, or permitted to remain on any lot
other than one detached single family dwelling not to exceed
2 ½ stories in height and a private garage for not more than
two cars.”
Section 36-54(e)(3) of the City of Little Rock Zoning Ordinance establishes
the site and location criteria for day care family homes as follows:
Day care family home:
a. This use may be located only in a single family home, occupied by the
care giver and which is the full time residence of the care giver.
b. Must be operated within licensing procedures established by the State
of Arkansas. State regulations shall control the number of employees
residing off premises.
c. The use is limited to ten (10) children including the care givers.
d. The minimum to qualify for special use permit is six (6) children from
households other than the care givers.
e. This use must obtain a special use permit in all districts where day
care centers are not allowed by right.
f. After the effective date of this subsection, no Special Use Permit will
be approved for a day care family proposed to be located within 300
feet of a licensed day care center or an operating day care family
home for which a Special Use Permit has previously been approved.
For the purposes of this subsection, the distance between properties
shall be measured in a straight line without regard to intervening
structures or objects, from property line to property line.
g. All day care family homes located in the City of Little Rock are required
to obtain a City of Little Rock business license and to pay an annual
business tax as specified in Chapter 17. of the Code.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8552
3
h. A copy of the day care family home’s current State of Arkansas license
must be submitted to the City Collector’s Office each year at the time
of payment of the annual business tax.
i. All vehicles must be parked on an on-site paved surface.
j. All vehicles located on the site must be operational.
k. All pick-up and drop-off of children shall be on the property’s driveway
and not on the public right-of-way unless otherwise approved by the
Planning Commission.
l. Special Use Permits for day care family homes shall be reviewed by
staff every three (3) years for compliance with the development criteria
and Planning Commission approval.
m. The Fire Marshall must approve use of the residence for the proposed
day care family home.
Special Use Permits are not transferable in any manner. Permits cannot
be transferred from owner to owner, location to location or use to use.
To staff’s knowledge, there are no outstanding issues associated with this
application. Staff feels that the proposed day care family home at this
location will have no adverse impact on the general area. Based on
information provided by the State, there are no permitted/licensed day
care family homes or day care centers within 300 feet of the site. There is
an operating day care family home at 2515 Montreal Drive which is just
outside the 300 foot separation. Additionally, staff has received no
complaints from neighbors since the applicant began caring for children at
this address, for the past two (2) years.
C. Subdivision Committee Comments: (May 13, 2010)
Betty Powell was present, representing the application. Staff briefly
described the proposed day care family home use. Ms. Powell noted that
she has been caring for up to five (5) children at this residence for two (2)
years. In response to a question from staff, Ms. Powell explained the
proposed hours of operation, as noted in paragraph B. of this report. She
also noted that her daughter who also lives at this location will help care
for the children and be the only employee. Ms. Powell stated that she had
received approval from the City’s Fire Marshall.
After the discussion, the Committee forwarded the application to the full
Commission for final action.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8552
4
D. Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the Special Use Permit to allow a day care
family home at 7808 West 25th Street, subject to the following conditions:
1. Compliance with the site and location criteria in Section 36-54(e)(3).
2. There is to be no signage beyond that permitted in single family zones.
3. Outdoor activities, including playground use, are to be limited to day-
light hours.
4. The hours of operation and number of children are limited to those
proposed by the applicant, and noted in paragraph B. of the staff
report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
Betty J. Powell was present, representing the application. There were no
objectors present. Staff presented the application with a recommendation of
approval.
Betty J. Powell addressed the Commission in support of the application. She
explained that she has been caring for five (5) children at this location for two (2)
years, with no complaints from neighbors.
Ruth Bell also spoke in support. She explained that day care family homes
which comply with ordinance standards should be allowed.
Troy Laha asked about the hours of operation. He noted that some of the day
care use extended beyond 6:00 p.m. He discussed the issue of bills of
assurance for neighborhoods.
Commissioner Rector discussed the proposed use of the property and the
definition of single family residential. This issue was briefly discussed.
There was a motion to approve the application as recommended by staff. The
motion passed by a vote of 6 ayes, 3 nays and 2 absent. The application was
approved.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 5 FILE NO.: Z-8553
NAME: Pippins Day Care Family Home – Special Use Permit
LOCATION: 5304 Keats Drive
OWNER: Jameeka L. Pippins
APPLICANT: Jameeka L. Pippins
PROPOSAL: A Special Use Permit is requested to allow a Day
Care Family Home to be operated in the single family
residence located on the R-2 zoned property at
5304 Keats Drive.
A. Public Notification:
All owners of property located within 200 feet of the site, all residents
within 300 feet who could be identified, and the Windamere and SWLR
United for Progress Neighborhood Associations were notified of the public
hearing.
B. Staff Analysis:
5304 Keats Drive is located on the north side of Keats Drive, between
Shelly Drive and Dreher Lane in the Windamere Subdivision. All
surrounding properties are zoned R-2 and contain single family
residences. There is a large apartment complex located further south.
The applicant’s home is a one-story brick and frame single family
residence, and is typical of those in the general area. The rear yard is
fenced and should provide a safe play area. Proposed hours of operation
are 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday. The applicant notes that
there is one (1) parent with two (2) children which she cares for from
2:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. four (4) out of every six (6) days. The applicant
has noted that she will have one (1) employee which lives off-site.
There is a two-car wide driveway from Keats Drive with parking for six (6)
vehicles including the carport. Staff feels this will allow sufficient space for
drop-off and pick-up of children. On inspection of the site, staff observed
no vehicles parked on unpaved areas. Staff also observed no vehicles on
the site which are not operational.
The applicant is currently providing care for five (5) children at this
location, since March, 2010. The applicant is in the process of being
licensed by the State for up to ten (10) children.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8553
2
The principal use of the property will remain single family residential. No
signage beyond that allowed in single family zones will be permitted. The
applicant submitted a copy of the bill of assurance for this subdivision
which was recorded in 1956. The bill of assurance contains the following
language:
“Land Use and Building Type. No lot shall be used except
for residential purposes. No building shall be erected,
altered, placed or permitted to remain on any lot other than
one detached single-family dwelling not to exceed one story
in height.”
Section 36-54(e)(3) of the City of Little Rock Zoning Ordinance establishes
the site and location criteria for day care family homes as follows:
Day care family home:
a. This use may be located only in a single family home, occupied by the
care giver and which is the full time residence of the care giver.
b. Must be operated within licensing procedures established by the State
of Arkansas. State regulations shall control the number of employees
residing off premises.
c. The use is limited to ten (10) children including the care givers.
d. The minimum to qualify for special use permit is six (6) children from
households other than the care givers.
e. This use must obtain a special use permit in all districts where day
care centers are not allowed by right.
f. After the effective date of this subsection, no Special Use Permit will
be approved for a day care family proposed to be located within 300
feet of a licensed day care center or an operating day care family
home for which a Special Use Permit has previously been approved.
For the purposes of this subsection, the distance between properties
shall be measured in a straight line without regard to intervening
structures or objects, from property line to property line.
g. All day care family homes located in the City of Little Rock are required
to obtain a City of Little Rock business license and to pay an annual
business tax as specified in Chapter 17. of the Code.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8553
3
h. A copy of the day care family home’s current State of Arkansas license
must be submitted to the City Collector’s Office each year at the time
of payment of the annual business tax.
i. All vehicles must be parked on an on-site paved surface.
j. All vehicles located on the site must be operational.
k. All pick-up and drop-off of children shall be on the property’s driveway
and not on the public right-of-way unless otherwise approved by the
Planning Commission.
l. Special Use Permits for day care family homes shall be reviewed by
staff every three (3) years for compliance with the development criteria
and Planning Commission approval.
m. The Fire Marshall must approve use of the residence for the proposed
day care family home.
Special Use Permits are not transferable in any manner. Permits
cannot be transferred from owner to owner, location to location or use
to use.
To staff’s knowledge, there are no outstanding issues associated with
this application. Staff feels that the proposed day care family home at
this location will have no adverse impact on the general area. Based
on information provided by the State, there are no permitted/licensed
day care family homes or day care centers within 300 feet of the site.
Additionally, staff has received no complaints from neighbors since the
applicant began caring for children at this address, as of March, 2010.
C. Subdivision Committee Comments: (May 13, 2010)
Jameeka Pippins was present, representing the application. Staff briefly
described the proposed day care family home use. Ms. Pippins noted that
she has been caring for up to five (5) children at this location for three (3)
months. In response to a question from staff, Ms. Pippins explained the
proposed hours of operation, as noted in paragraph B. of this report.
Ms. Pippins also noted that she would have one (1) employee who resides
off-site. In response to a question from the Committee, Ms. Pippins stated
that she was the owner and resident of 5304 Keats Drive.
After the discussion, the Committee forwarded the application to the full
Commission for final action.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8553
4
D. Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the Special Use Permit to allow a day care
family home at 5304 Keats Drive, subject to the following conditions:
1. Compliance with the site and location criteria in Section 36-54(e)(3).
2. There is to be no signage beyond that permitted in single family zones.
3. Outdoor activities, including playground use, are to be limited to
day-light hours.
4. The hours of operation and number of children are limited to those
proposed by the applicant, and noted in paragraph B. of the staff
report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
Jameeka L. Pippins was present, representing the application. There were five
(5) objectors present. Staff presented the application with a recommendation of
approval.
Jameeka L. Pippins addressed the Commission in support of the application.
She explained that she currently cared for five (5) children at this location and
wished to expand to ten (10) children. Commissioner Nunnley asked how large
the house is. Ms. Pippins noted that the house was 1,000 square feet in area.
Ruth Bell spoke in support of the application. She noted support for day care
family homes which complied to ordinance standards.
Pat Gee, vice-president of the Southwest Little Rock United for Progress, spoke
in opposition. She noted that the bill of assurance did not allow business uses.
She noted that there were other day care uses in the area. She explained that
the Windamere Neighborhood Association opposed the application.
Bonnie Shelton, of 5308 Keats Drive, also spoke in opposition. She noted that
the neighborhood was not an appropriate location for a day care use. She stated
that Ms. Pippins should locate in a commercial location.
Ms. Pippins noted that there would be security cameras on the site. She
explained that the children she cared for after hours were dropped off at the
parent’s location, and that there was no pick-up of children at this location after
hours. Commissioner Nunnley asked Ms. Pippins if she lived at 5304 Keats
Drive. Ms. Pippins stated that she did live there. Ms. Pippins noted that she
would have no pick-up of children after 6:00 p.m.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8553
5
Commissioner Rouse asked Ms. Shelton if she had any problems with the day
care use of five (5) children since March, 2010. Ms. Shelton stated that she had
no problems, but there had been increased traffic.
Commissioner Laha noted that several day care uses in the area had closed
because of lack of business. He made general comments related to day care
uses in neighborhoods and a past bill of assurance court case.
There was a motion to approve the application as revised by the applicant (no
pick-up of children after 6:00 p.m.), and recommended by staff. The motion
failed by a vote of 5 ayes, 4 nays and 2 absent. The motion failed and the
application was denied.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 6 FILE NO.: Z-3592-M
NAME: Pinnacle Classical Academy Private School –
Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: 11001 Kanis Road
OWNER/APPLICANT: Rose Hill Church of the Nazarene/Holley Peters
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow a small
private school to locate in a portion of the existing
church located on this R-2 zoned, 2.16 acre tract.
1. SITE LOCATION:
The church is located on the south side of Kanis Road, approximately two
blocks west of Shackleford Road.
2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The church is located in an area of mixed zoning and uses. Most of the
properties in the area around the site are zoned and developed
commercially. A large area of C-2 and O-3 zoned properties extends to
the south. Portions of this area are undeveloped and other portions
contain various office and commercial uses. Undeveloped C-2 zoned
property is located to the north. A painting contractor’s office is located on
a portion of the nonconforming, R-2 zoned property to the west. Other
uses in the area include retail, hotels and offices.
Allowing the small private school to occupy a portion of the existing church
is an appropriate use for the property.
All owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site, all residents
located within 300 feet of the site who could be identified and the John
Barrow Neighborhood Association were notified of this proposal.
3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
Access to the site is via two driveways off of Kanis Road. Parking wraps
around the sides and rear of the building. There appear to be
approximately 50 paved parking spaces on the site. The proposed
maximum enrollment is 43 students with 7 employees. The school will
use 4 classrooms and the church’s fellowship hall. The existing parking
and drop-off/pickup spaces are more than sufficient for the proposed use.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-3592-M
2
4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
No comments on this use-only issue.
5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
No Comments.
6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project.
Entergy: No comments received.
Centerpoint Energy: No comments received.
AT&T (SBC): No comments received.
Water: NO OBJECTIONS.
All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request
for water service must be met.
Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered
water service is required.
A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of meter connection(s) will
apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply to all
connections including metered connections off the private fire system.
Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced
pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the
domestic water service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first
point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon
installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be
completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of
Arkansas and approved by CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW’s
Cross Connection Section within ten (10) days of installation and annually
thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 377-1226 if you
would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project.
Fire Department: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No Comments.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-3592-M
3
CATA: The site is not located on a CATA bus route.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 13, 2010)
The applicants were present. Staff presented the item and noted little additional
information was needed. Staff asked the applicants to provide the maximum
proposed enrollment and number of employees. The applicants were asked to
provide days and hours of operation, a signage plan and to locate the playground
area.
In response to questions from the Committee, the applicants responded that the
school was to be a fee-based private school and the facility had been inspected
and approved by building codes and the fire marshall.
Utility Comments were noted. The applicants were advised to contact those
agencies with any questions. The applicants were advised to respond to staff
issues by May 19, 2010. The Committee forwarded the item to the full
Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
Rose Hill Church of the Nazarene is located on the R-2 zoned, 2.16 acre tract
at 11001 Kanis Road. The site contains the church building and an asphalt
paved parking lot. The rear portion of the site is undeveloped and contains a
grass-covered field and some woods.
Pinnacle Classical Academy, a fee-based private school, is requesting approval
of a conditional use permit to allow the school to utilize a portion of the church
during the week. The school proposes to utilize some of the church’s classrooms
and the fellowship hall. The school is a private kindergarten through fifth grade
school with a maximum proposed enrollment of 43 students with 7 employees.
The school will operate Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
A second ground sign will be installed on the site to accommodate the school.
The new sign will be 5’ X 5’ and no more than 6’ in height. The sign will be
placed near the eastern driveway. No new fencing will be installed on the site.
The playground area will be located at the rear of the property, on the grass field.
The applicant responded to issues raised at Subdivision Committee, as noted
above. To staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding issues. The proposed use
of this existing church facility for a small private school appears to be an
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-3592-M
4
appropriate use and is compatible with uses in the area. There is no bill of
assurance for this acreage tract.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested CUP subject to compliance with the
following conditions:
1. Compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in Section 6 of the
agenda staff report.
2. Compliance with all applicable building code, fire code and state code
requirements for use of this existing facility for the proposed use.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented
the item and a recommendation of approval, subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions outlined in the “staff recommendation” above. There
was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and
approved as recommended by staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 7 FILE NO.: Z-5427-B
NAME: Huffman Office Warehouse – Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: SE corner of Kanis Road and Cherry Brook Drive
OWNER/APPLICANT: James and Terry Barnes/Brandon Huffman
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for
construction of an office-warehouse on this O-3
zoned, .88 acre lot.
STAFF REPORT:
On May 24, 2010, the applicant refiled this project as a Planned Office
Development rezoning. Staff recommends withdrawal of this CUP request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed
the commission that the application had been refiled as a planned development
and this C.U.P. application should be withdrawn. There was no further
discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved for
withdrawal by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 8 FILE NO.: Z-5468-A
NAME: Western Hills Methodist Church Day Care Center –
Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: 4601 Western Hills Avenue
OWNER/APPLICANT: Western Hills United Methodist Church/Tom Herndon
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow a day
care center to be operated in a portion of the existing
church located on this R-2 zoned, 5.6± acre tract.
1. SITE LOCATION:
The church is located on the northeast corner of Western Hills Avenue
and Melba Drive, approximately ¼ mile south of Colonel Glenn Road.
2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The church is located on the eastern edge of the Western Hills
neighborhood. The city-owned First Tee golf course is located adjacent to
the north and east. Western Hills Elementary School is located across
Melba Drive to the south. The former Western Hills golf course and
Country Club are located further to the south. Single family homes are
located to the west, across Western Hills Avenue. Allowing the use of a
portion of this existing church facility for a small day care center appears
to be an appropriate use that is compatible with uses in the area.
All owners of properties within 200 feet of the site, all residents within 300
feet who could be identified and the Westwood and SWLR United for
Progress Neighborhood Associations were notified of this request.
3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
Access to the site is via driveways onto both Western Hills Avenue and
Melba Drive. The site contains paved parking for 50+ vehicles. The day
care is proposed to have a maximum enrollment of 35 children with 7 staff
members, requiring 10 parking spaces. There is sufficient parking and
drop-off/pickup space to accommodate the proposed use.
4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
No comments on this use-only issue.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5468-A
2
5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1. Western Hills Avenue is classified on the Master Street Plan as a
collector street. A dedication of right-of-way thirty (30) feet from
centerline will be required.
2. A twenty (20) foot radial dedication of right-of-way is required at the
intersection of Western Hills Avenue and Melba Street.
6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project.
Entergy: No comments received.
Centerpoint Energy: No comments received.
AT&T (SBC): No comments received.
Water: NO OBJECTIONS. All Central Arkansas Water requirements in
effect at the time of request for water service must be met.
Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered
water service is required.
A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of the meter connection(s)
will apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply
to all connections including metered connections off the private fire
system.
Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced
pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the
domestic water service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first
point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon
installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be
completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of
Arkansas and approved by CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW’s
Cross Connection Section within ten (10) days of installation and annually
thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 377-1226 if you
would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project.
Fire Department: May require fire sprinkler system and fire hydrant.
Contact Fire Marshall’s office at 918-3757.
County Planning: No Comments.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5468-A
3
CATA: The site is not located on a CATA bus route.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 13, 2010)
The applicants were present. Staff presented the item and noted little additional
information was needed. In response to a question from staff, the applicants
indicated no new signage or fencing would be erected. In response to a question
from the Committee, the applicants stated the age of the children was anticipated
to be up to 3 to 4 years old.
Utility and Public Works Comments were discussed. The applicants were
advised to contact those agencies if there were any questions.
The Committee determined there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the
item to the full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
Western Hills United Methodist Church occupies the R-2 zoned, 5.6 ± acre tract
located at 4601 Western Hills Avenue. The site contains two church buildings
and paved parking and driveways. The Children’s Learning Center of Pulaski
Heights United Methodist Church in collaboration with Western Hills UMC are
requesting approval of a conditional use permit to allow the operation of a day
care center utilizing a portion of the existing Western Hills UMC facility.
The maximum proposed enrollment is 35 children with up to 7 employees. Days
and hours of operation are proposed as Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to
5:30 p.m. The playground area is located adjacent to the church building. No
changes are proposed to the site.
Staff believes the proposed day care center is an appropriate use. The day care
will be utilizing a portion of an existing church facility. There is more than
sufficient parking and drop-off/pick-up area to accommodate the use. To staff’s
knowledge there are no outstanding issues. There is no bill of assurance for this
acreage tract.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested CUP subject to compliance with the
following conditions:
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5468-A
4
1. Compliance with the comments and conditions in Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the
agenda staff report.
2. Compliance with all applicable building code, fire code and state code
requirements for use of this existing facility for the proposed use.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicants were present. There were three objectors present. One letter of
opposition had been received from the Westwood Neighborhood Association.
Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval, subject to
compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in the “staff
recommendation” above.
Courtney Frizzel, program director for the Pulaski Heights UMC Children’s
Learning Center, stated they were working with Western Hills UMC to provide
quality child care for area residents.
Tom Herndon, a trustee with Western Hills UMC, stated there was a need for
quality childcare in the area. He stated the childcare would provide jobs and
would allow others to go to work.
Of the three persons who turned in cards in opposition to the item, Eric Hale and
Michelle McElway indicated they did not wish to speak.
Roderick Dunn, president of the Westwood Neighborhood Association, spoke in
opposition to the item. He stated the Association opposed days care centers in
the neighborhood. Mr. Dunn quoted from the letter the Association had submitted
in which he referenced the neighborhood action plan. In that plan, the
neighborhood stated its opposition to any additional daycares in the area other
than for along Col. Glenn Rd. He stated there were several day cares located
along Col. Glenn and there was no need for this day care.
Ms. Frizzel reiterated the need for additional childcare in the area. She noted the
presence of two nearby elementary schools and the State’s Workforce Center.
Commissioner Rouse commented that there was an elementary school directly
across the street. He asked Mr. Dunn how allowing this church to have a day
care center would harm the neighborhood. Mr. Dunn responded that the school
was existing and the neighborhood opposed any new day cares. Commissioner
Rouse responded that he saw this as a different case since the church was an
existing institutional use.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5468-A
5
Chairman Yates asked staff to comment on the action plan and to explain staff’s
recommendation, which appeared to be in contrast to the plan. Director of
Planning Tony Bozynski responded that those plans were guidelines supported
by both the City Board and Planning Commission. Mr. Bozynski stated this was a
unique situation in that the day care was proposed to be located in an existing
church that was actually located on the edge of the neighborhood in an institution
area that contained the church, an elementary school and a City golf course. He
stated access to the site was from a collector street.
A motion was then made to approve the application subject to compliance with all
staff comments and conditions. The motion was approved by a vote of 9 ayes,
0 noes and 2 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 9 FILE NO.: Z-6425-C
NAME: Little Rock Urban Prep Charter School –
Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: 6711 West Markham Street
OWNER/APPLICANT: Lutheran High School/Little Rock Urban Prep, Inc.,
Chris Travis
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow an open
enrollment charter school to locate in the former
church – private school facility located on this R-2
zoned, 4.8± acre tract.
1. SITE LOCATION:
The property is located at the SE corner of West Markham and Hughes
Streets.
2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The school is located in an area comprised primarily of single family
homes. Residential properties are located to the north and east, across
Markham and Hughes Streets respectively. The Christ Lutheran Church
and School are located to the south. The large tract of R-2 zoned property
east of this site has previously been approved for future expansion of
Christ Lutheran and the school. Additional residential uses, single and
multifamily, are located east and south of Christ Lutheran’s property. The
two schools and church form an institutional node. The school will not be
expanding beyond its existing boundaries.
The continued use of the site as a school is an appropriate use. The
principal issue is that of traffic. The prior approval allowed an enrollment
of up to 400 students. The current proposal is for up to 696 students. A
traffic study has been completed and is being reviewed by Public Works
staff. If traffic issues are adequately addressed, the proposed use should
be compatible.
All owners of properties within 200 feet of the site, all residents within
300 feet who could be identified and the Briarwood and University Park
Neighborhood Associations were notified of this request.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6425-C
2
3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
The proposed school is to have an enrollment of 696 students in grades
kindergarten through 8th grade. There will be 36 classrooms, 44 teachers,
7 administrators and 60 kindergarten students. Those numbers require
that the site have 93 parking spaces. The site contains 108 parking
spaces. The site currently has 3 driveways onto Hughes Street. A traffic
study has been completed by Peters and Associates to address the issue
of drop-off/pick-up and vehicle stacking. That study is being reviewed by
the City’s Traffic Engineer and Public Works. The initial review of the
study indicates a new “entry only” driveway being constructed on
Markham Street, conversion of the two northern Hughes Street driveways
to “exit only” and use of the southern Hughes Street driveway as full
access, “entry and exit”. A final report on staff’s response to the traffic
study will be presented at the public hearing.
4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
1. Any new vehicular use areas will need to be landscaped and buffered
to comply with applicable City codes.
5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1. West Markham Street is classified on the Master Street Plan as a
minor arterial with special design standards. A dedication of right-of-
way thirty-five (35) feet from centerline will be required.
2. A twenty (20) foot radial dedication of right-of-way is required at the
intersection of W. Markham Street and S. Hughes Street.
3. A traffic study should be provided which models pickup and drop-off of
the 700 students along with stacking at the intersection of W. Markham
and Hughes Street. The current traffic signal does not provide a
protected left turn movement.
6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project.
Entergy: No comments received.
Centerpoint Energy: No comments received.
AT&T (SBC): No comments received.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6425-C
3
Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of
request for water service must be met.
The Little Rock Fire Department needs to evaluate this site to determine
whether additional public and/or private fire hydrant(s) will be required. If
additional fire hydrant(s) are required, they will be installed at the
Developer’s expense.
Please submit plans for water facilities and/or fire protection system to
Central Arkansas Water for review. Plan revisions may be required after
additional review. Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding procedures
for installation of water facilities and/or fire service. Approval of plans by
the Arkansas Department of Health Engineering Division and Little Rock
Fire Department is required.
Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered
water service is required.
A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of the meter connection(s)
will apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply
to all connections including metered connections off the private fire
system.
Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced
pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the
domestic water service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first
point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon
installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be
completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of
Arkansas and approved by CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW’s
Cross Connection Section within ten (10) days of installation and annually
thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 377-1226 if you
would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project.
Fire Department: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No Comments.
CATA: CATA bus routes are located on both W. Markham and Hughes
Streets.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6425-C
4
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 13, 2010)
The applicants were present. Staff presented the item and noted little additional
information was needed. Staff requested information regarding signage,
dumpster location and screening, new fencing and site lighting.
Public Works, Utility and Landscape Comments were noted. Staff stated a traffic
study was required. The applicants responded that Peters and Associates had
been retained to prepare the study and it would be submitted to staff within the
week.
The applicants were directed to contact the other agencies if there were
questions about the other comments.
Staff asked that the applicants respond by Wednesday, May 19,2 010. The
Committee forwarded the item to the full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
On February 5, 1988, the Planning Commission approved a conditional use
permit allowing conversion of the former Olivet Baptist Church, located at
6711 West Markham Street, into the Lutheran High School. The approved plan
included use of the existing building with no exterior changes to the building or
the parking lots. Approval was granted subject to the following conditions:
1. Compliance with the Screening and Buffer Comments.
2. Compliance with Public Works Comments
3. The maximum enrollment will be 200 students.
4. Compliance with the following terms agreed to at the January 22, 1998
neighborhood meeting.
a. The school will construct additional parking on the site once the
existing parking reaches 90% capacity.
b. The Lutheran Association and Christ Lutheran Church will share the
cost with the City for a traffic light at the intersection of Hughes and
Markham Streets. Their part will be between 20-25% of the cost of the
traffic light, with the City paying the remaining 75-80%.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6425-C
5
c. The applicant will submit a plan showing how cars will enter and exit
the parking lot for dropping off and picking up children at the school.
d. The applicant will pay the cost for the installation of two flashing school
zone signs on Hughes Street.
On May 11, 2000, the Commission approved a revision to the C.U.P. allowing for
construction of a 16,000 square foot, detached gymnasium building and an
increase in the student population from 200 to 250. The gymnasium building was
to be located on the front of the property, with a 25 foot setback from the West
Markham Street property line. This plan included the addition of 45 parking
spaces, bringing the total number of proposed parking spaces to 136. The
45 new spaces were to be constructed once the existing, 91 space parking lot
was regularly filled 90% usage. The school restated its agreement to participate
in the cost of traffic signal at Markham and Hughes, as per the February 1998
C.U.P. approval. The Commission’s approval was granted subject to the
following conditions:
a. Comply with the City’s Landscape and Buffer Ordinances.
b. Comply with Public Works Comments.
c. Comply with Fire Department Comment.
d. All exterior lighting must be low intensity and directed downward and inward
to the property and not towards any residential zoned area.
On August 22, 2002, the Commission approved a revision to the C.U.P. allowing
for construction of a two-story, 34,000 square foot gymnasium to be built as an
addition to the school rather than as a freestanding structure. The addition also
contained classroom space. The revision to the C.U.P. also included the future
construction of a three-story classroom addition onto the north side of the
existing building, the phased construction of an addition 100 parking spaces and
increasing the student population from 250 to 400. The gymnasium addition and
the phase I parking expansion (17 spaces) were constructed.
Approval was granted subject to compliance with the following conditions:
1. Compliance with the staff comments and conditions outlined in Sections 4, 5
and 6 of this report.
2. Compliance with the approved site plan and the development plan outlined in
the applicant’s cover letter and addendum; including the continued agreement
to participate in the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of West
Markham and Hughes as agreed to in 1998.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6425-C
6
3. The Phase II parking is to be constructed at the time the three-story
classroom addition is constructed or at the time the existing parking reaches
90% capacity, whichever occurs first.
4. Signage is to be limited to that permitted in office zones.
5. Site lighting is to be low-level and directional, aimed inward to the site.
Lutheran High School is now closing and an open enrollment charter school,
Little Rock Urban Prep, Inc., is proposing to occupy the site. The proposed
charter school is to have an enrollment of 696 students in grades kindergarten
through 8th grade. No changes are proposed to the building other than for some
interior remodeling to create additional classrooms. No additional parking is
proposed. The wooded area north of the building will be used as playground
area. A chain link fence will enclose the playground. Signage will consist of the
existing stone wall-ground sign at the northwest corner of the property and
possible wall signs on the building. Days and hours of operation are those
typical for a public school. The dumpster has been indicated at the southeast
corner of the site. The required dumpster screening will be installed.
A new “entry only” driveway will be installed off of West Markham Street. Two
new light fixture will be installed on the east side of the driveway. The lighting will
be low-level and shielded downward and into the site.
The traffic study has been completed and final review by staff is underway as of
this writing. The major focus of the study is to assure that there is adequate
stacking space on the site to accommodate students being dropped off in the
morning and picked up in the afternoon. To accomplish this, a new “entry only”
driveway is to be built off of Markham Street, the two northern driveways off of
Hughes will be converted to “exit only” and the southern drive off of Hughes will
be full access, “entry and exit”. Three pick-up/drop-off locations will be located
on the site. Staff’s response to the study is forthcoming. There is no bill of
assurance for this acreage tract.
To staff’s knowledge, there are no outstanding issues. There is no bill of
assurance for this acreage tract.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommendation is forthcoming.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6425-C
7
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
Chairman Jeff Yates recused on this item. Two persons present indicated they
were opposed to the item, one indicated support and one had questions. Two
e-mails from persons expressing concerns about traffic had been received by
staff and forwarded to the Commission. A letter had been submitted by the
Briarwood Area Neighborhood Association in which the Association stated it had
no objection to the proposed school but wanted assurances that the City and the
school would work to resolve any traffic issues.
Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval subject to
compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in Sections 4, 5 and 6 of
the agenda staff report. Staff added the following additional condition to the
Public Works comments:
“ After review of the traffic study dated May 19, 2010 for traffic
associated with the operation of the UCPC School, staff believes
the proposed plan is acceptable. The plan shows driveway and
parking improvements, public street striping, on-site striping and
signage to be installed. Prior to opening of the school, the driveway
and parking improvements, public street striping, on-site striping
and signage must be installed as shown on the May 19, 2010 traffic
study. Plans must be submitted to staff for the proposed
improvements for review prior to installation and permitting.”
Staff briefly described the traffic study results, noting particularly the installation
of a new entrance-only driveway on Markham and the conversion of the two
northernmost driveways on Hughes Street to one-way exit only driveways.
Commissioner Nunnley asked if the original approval to allow for the conversion
of the church into the Lutheran High School limited use of the site to the Lutheran
school only. Staff responded that this was a new application since the use was
changing from a private school to a public charter school and the enrollment was
changing from a maximum of 400 to a maximum of 696.
Chris Travis, attorney representing UCPC, spoke in support of the item. He made
reference to the traffic study. Mr. Travis stated they had met twice with the
Briarwood Neighborhood and once with the University Park neighborhood. He
stated all meetings were positive.
Ernie Peters, of Peters and Associates Engineers, spoke of the traffic study his
firm had completed. He stated they had worked closely with Little Rock Traffic
Engineering and had made changes as suggested by staff. Mr. Peters stated the
conclusion was that the site could accommodate the school, with traffic
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6425-C
8
improvements noted in the plan and recommended by staff. He presented a
power point showing elements of the traffic study.
Chris Travis stated information packets will be provided to parents of children at
the school, including traffic instructions. He stated each will be specific based on
the ages of the children and the specific drop-off/pick-up area. Mr. Travis stated
parents will be instructed not to use the Briarwood neighborhood streets.
Nat Banihatti, of the Little Rock Traffic Engineer’s office, stated staff had
reviewed the traffic study and had worked with Mr. Peters. He stated staff had
made suggestions and changes were made. Mr. Banihatti stated staff agreed
that the traffic plan would work. Commissioner Nunnley asked if staff had
considered the existing traffic flow through the neighborhood. Mr. Banihatti
responded that they had and had come to the conclusion that the proposed
school would not impact traffic in the neighborhood.
Ruth Bell, of the League of Women Voters, asked if the traffic study had taken
into consideration the opening of the new Target store on S. University Avenue.
She also asked what recourse there would be for the neighborhood if the traffic
plan did not work.
Jim Bell, one of the directors of the Briarwood Area Neighborhood Association,
read from the letter submitted by the Association. He asked that the school
and City commit to addressing traffic issues. Mr. Bell stated he had three points
of concern. He stated the Lutheran School currently had an enrollment of
121 students so the real increase in traffic is from 121 to 696, not 400 to 696.
He stated there would be traffic generated by two schools since the Christ
Lutheran elementary school, with an enrollment of 232 students, was located
just to the south of this site. He stated additional traffic through the neighborhood
would be generated by persons going to the new Target store.
Lynn Smith, of 2 Pilot Point Place, spoke also of his concerns with traffic. He
stated he was already impacted by traffic created by Hall High School and
Catholic High School . He questioned how the traffic model would relate to
reality. Mr. Smith stated he also needed assurance that the students would be
supervised. He referenced a recent incident where high school students were
caught stealing from his property.
William Wooly, of 6904 Briarwood, spoke of his concerns. He stated the Lutheran
High School approvals grew from 200, to 250, to 400. He stated the school never
had more than 200 students. He stated traffic from Christ Lutheran School
already backs onto Hughes Street. Mr. Wooly stated the proposed charter school
would create traffic problems on Markham Street and would push traffic into the
neighborhood.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6425-C
9
Lynn Smith asked why the school was locating at this site if the target students
were to be from southwest and central Little Rock.
Chris Travis stated his client could not control traffic generated by Christ
Lutheran School or Target. He stated UCPC could instruct its parents regarding
traffic patterns. Mr. Travis stated the traffic study was comprehensive and
complete and took into account all area uses. He stated the children were ages
kindergarten through 8th grade and the children would never be turned loose in
the neighborhood.
Mr. Peters commented that the peak hour traffic generated by Target would not
conflict with the peak hour traffic generated by the school.
In response to a question from Commissioner Brock, applicant Jackie Jackson
stated the school had a current enrollment of 562 students.
Commissioner Rouse commented that he did not know of any school in Little
Rock that did not have traffic issues. Commissioner Nunnley stated he was not
opposed to the school, only the proposed enrollment number. A brief discussion
then followed between the two commissioners regarding traffic at various
schools.
Commissioner Harpool asked if there would be off-duty police officers to help
with traffic control. Ms. Jackson responded that there would be only at the
beginning to help get people trained in the traffic pattern. She stated the practice
would continue if it was found to be needed.
In response to a question from Commissioner Changose Ms. Jackson stated the
children would be coming from the local school district, other school districts and
from those being home-schooled. She stated the proposed school would be for
boys only and would be filling a need.
Ruth Bell asked again what the recourse was for the neighborhood if the traffic
plan did not work.
Ms. Jackson committed to continue working with the neighborhood to address
any concerns.
A motion was made to approve the application, including all staff comments and
conditions. The motion was approved by a vote of 7 ayes, 1 noe, 2 absent and
1 recusing (Yates).
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 10 FILE NO.: Z-7066-A
NAME: Ross Adult Day Care Center – Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: 2506 S. Valentine Street
OWNER/APPLICANT: Claudia Starks/Rhonda Ross
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the
use of the residential structure on this R-3 zoned lot
as an adult day care center.
1. SITE LOCATION:
The property is located at the west side of Valentine Street, one block
north of Asher Avenue.
2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The property is located at the southern edge of a residential neighborhood
where uses begin to transition to nonresidential. Single family residences
are located adjacent to the site. The former Garland School is located
across 25th Street to the north. Just to the south is a large area of
commercial and industrial zoning located along Asher Avenue and
Roosevelt Road. This small, 4 client, day care should be compatible with
uses and zoning in the area. The property will maintain its residential
appearance and character.
All owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site, all residents
within 300 feet who could be identified and the Love, Goodwill and
Stephens Area Faith Neighborhood Associations were notified of this
request.
3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
The day care is proposed to have a maximum enrollment of 4 clients with
2 employees, requiring 3 parking spaces. The site contains a singlewide
driveway that is deep enough for two vehicles plus an additional space on
a “flag pole” space perpendicular to the driveway. The parking meets the
ordinance requirement.
4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
No Comments.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7066-A
2
5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
No Comments.
6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project.
Entergy: No comments received.
Centerpoint Energy: No comments received.
AT&T (SBC): No comments received.
Water: NO OBJECTIONS.
All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request
for water service must be met.
Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered
water service is required.
A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of meter connection(s) will
apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply to all
connections including metered connections off the private fire system.
Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced
pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the
domestic water service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first
point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon
installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be
completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of
Arkansas and approved by CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW’s
Cross Connection Section within ten (10) days of installation and annually
thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 377-1226 if you
would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project.
Fire Department: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No Comments.
CATA: This site is not located on a CATA bus route.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7066-A
3
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 13, 2010)
The applicant was present. Staff presented the item and noted little additional
information was needed. In response to a question from staff, the applicant
indicated that the service would be available on weekends on an as-needed
basis and the same hours of operation would apply.
Utility Comments were noted. The applicant was advised to contact those
agencies if there were any questions.
The Committee determined there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the
item to the full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The applicant is requesting approval of a conditional use permit to allow for the
use of the residential structure on the R-3 zoned lot located at 2506 S. Valentine
Street as an adult day care center. The day care will have a maximum of 4
clients with 2 employees. This exact same application was approved by the
Commission on July 26, 2001. The applicant subsequently decided not to
pursue the activity at that time.
The property is occupied by a small, one-story, single family residence and
paved parking for 3 vehicles. The only proposed changes to the property are to
add a covered patio at the rear of the residence and some additional
landscaping. A small sign is proposed to be placed in a front flower bed.
Days and hours of operation are proposed as Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m. with extended hours available to 7:00 p.m. on an as-needed basis.
Weekend service would also be available on an as-needed basis, utilizing those
same hours.
Staff feels that the adult day care center as proposed, with only 4 clients and 2
employees will be compatible with uses in the area. To staff’s knowledge, there
are no outstanding issues. There is no bill of assurance for this acreage tract.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested CUP subject to compliance with the
following conditions:
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7066-A
4
1. Compliance with the comments and conditions in Section 6 of the agenda
staff report.
2. Signage is to be limited to either a single wall sign not to exceed 1 square
foot in an area or a single ground sign not to exceed 1 square foot in area
and 6 feet in height.
3. Compliance with all applicable building codes, fire codes and state codes for
conversion of this residential structure to accommodate the proposed use.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented
the item and a recommendation of approval, subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions outlined in the “staff recommendation” above. There
was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and
approved as recommended by staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 11 FILE NO.: Z-8551
NAME: Pippins Adult Day Care Center –
Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: 3819 Baseline Road
OWNER/APPLICANT: Eugene and Christy Simon/Jameeka Pippins
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the
use of the existing residential structure on this R-2
zoned, .97 acre tract as an adult day care center.
1. SITE LOCATION:
The site is located on the south side of Baseline Road, approximately
800 feet west of Hilaro Springs Road.
2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The site is located on an arterial street in an area of mixed zoning and
uses. A day care center is adjacent to the west. A variety of residential,
office and planned development zoned properties extend further to the
west. Multifamily and an elementary school are located to the east. A
variety of office and commercial uses and zoned properties are located
along the north side of Baseline Road in this general area. Single family
residences are located along Bruno Road to the south. Those residential
properties are very deep, as is this property, providing adequate
separation from the proposed day care center. The proposed use of the
former veterinary clinic building as an adult day care center is compatible
with uses in the area.
All owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site, all residents
within 300 feet who could be identified and the Upper Baseline and SWLR
United for Progress Neighborhood Associations were notified of this
request.
3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
The proposed day care is to have a maximum enrollment of eight clients
with two employees, requiring 3 parking spaces. The property was
previously occupied by a veterinary clinic and has a gravel and paved
circular driveway with parking that will accommodate 5 to 6 vehicles. The
applicant will pave the gravel portion of the driveway and will expand it
slightly to accommodate additional parking and drop-off space.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 11 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8551
2
4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
Any new vehicular use areas will need to comply with the City’s
Landscape and Buffer Ordinances.
5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1. Baseline Road is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal
arterial with special design standards. A dedication of right-of-way
forty-five (45) feet from centerline may be required. The survey
provided does not show the centerline of Baseline Road and staff can
not determine if a dedication of right-of-way is required. A survey
should be provided showing the centerline of the right-of-way of
Baseline Road.
2. The western driveway should be signed one way in and the eastern
driveway should be signed one way out.
3. The gravel area of the driveway should have hard paved with either
asphalt or concrete.
6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project.
Entergy: No comments received.
Centerpoint Energy: No comments received.
AT&T (SBC): No comments received.
Water: NO OBJECTIONS. All Central Arkansas Water requirements in
effect at the time of request for water service must be met.
Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered
water service is required.
A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of meter connections(s)
will apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply
to all connections including metered connections off the private fire
system.
Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced
pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the
domestic water service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first
point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 11 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8551
3
installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be
completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of
Arkansas and approved by CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW’s
Cross Connection Section within ten (10) days of installation and annually
thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 377-1226 if you
would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project.
Fire Department: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No Comments.
CATA: The site is located on a CATA Bus route.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 13, 2010)
The applicant was present. Staff presented the item and noted little additional
information was needed. The applicant was advised to submit a signage plan
and to indicate any proposed fencing on the plan.
Public Works and Utility Comments were noted. The applicant was advised to
contact those agencies if there were any questions.
In response to a question from the Committee, the applicant stated the State
Licensing Authority did not require a full-time director for adult day care centers
with less than 15 clients. She stated she would serve as director and would have
2 employees.
The Committee determined there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the
item to the full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The R-2 zoned, .92± acre lot located at 3819 Baseline Road is occupied by a
one-story block and frame residential-style structure and a paved and gravel
circular driveway and parking area. The structure was occupied by a
nonconforming veterinary clinic until fairly recently. The applicant is requesting
approval of a conditional use permit to allow use of the existing structure as an
adult day care center with a maximum enrollment of 8 clients with 2 employees.
The proposed days and hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m.
to 6:00 p.m. A small (3’ X 4’) sign is proposed for the site. The gravel portion of
the existing circular driveway will be paved and widened slightly to accommodate
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 11 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8551
4
additional parking and drop-off space. The driveway will be signed to comply
with Public Works requirements. A portion of the rear yard will be enclosed by a
privacy fence to allow the clients to have a safe area to be outdoors when
appropriate. Otherwise, no changes will be made to the site.
Staff believes the proposed use is appropriate for the site. The site is in an area
of mixed zoning and uses and has a history of nonresidential use itself. The
proposed small, adult day care center should be compatible with uses in the
area. To staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding issues. The bill of
assurance for Rinke Garden Acres does not address use issues.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested CUP subject to compliance with the
following conditions:
1. Compliance with the comments and conditions in Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the
agenda staff report.
2. Signage is to be limited to a single ground mounted sign not to exceed 3’ X 4’
in area and 6’ in height.
3. Compliance with all applicable building codes, fire codes and state codes for
conversion of this structure to accommodate the proposed use.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented
the item and a recommendation of approval, subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions outlined in the “staff recommendation” above. There
was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and
approved as recommended by staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 12 FILE NO.: Z-8554
NAME: Lot 2, Biehslich Addition Hotel –
Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: 6100 S. University Avenue
OWNER/APPLICANT: Home Bank of Arkansas/Albert King
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the
construction of a 30-room hotel on this I-2 zoned,
.91± acre lot.
1. SITE LOCATION:
The property is located on the west side of S. University Avenue, two
tracts north of 65th Street.
2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The site is located in an area of fairly intense commercial and light
industrial uses and zoning. University Avenue is lined with a variety of
such uses. A single family neighborhood is located to the west, across
Mabelvale Pike. Access to this site will be from the commercial area
along University. Allowing a small hotel on this I-2 zoned property would
appear to be compatible with uses and zoning in the area and should have
less impact on nearby properties than if the site were developed with
some of the allowable I-2 uses.
All owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site, all residents
within 300 feet who could be identified and the SWLR United for Progress,
Geyer Springs, South Brookwood and Meadowcliff-Brookwood
Neighborhood Associations were notified of this request.
3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
The proposed 30-room hotel requires 33 parking spaces (1 per room plus
10%). A single driveway is proposed off of University Avenue, providing
access to 37 parking spaces.
4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
Site plan must comply with the City’s landscape and buffer ordinances
requirements.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8554
2
The dumpster is located within the nine foot (9) wide perimeter landscape
strip; remove.
A small amount of building landscaping will be required with this
application.
Areas set aside for buffers and landscaping appear to be sufficient in area.
An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
Prior to a building permit being issued, it will be necessary to provide an
approved landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered
Landscape Architect.
The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing
trees as feasible on this site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance
requirements can be given when properly preserving trees of six (6) inch
caliper or larger.
5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1. At the time of issuance of a building permit, provide design of street
conforming to the Master Street Plan. Construct one-half street
improvement to Mabelvale Pike including 5-foot sidewalks with
planned development. The new back of curb should be located
eighteen (18) feet from centerline.
6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project.
Entergy: No comments received.
Centerpoint Energy: No comments received.
AT&T (SBC): No comments received.
Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of
request for water service must be met.
The Little Rock Fire Department needs to evaluate this site to determine
whether additional public and/or private fire hydrant(s) will be required. If
additional fire hydrant(s) are required, they will be installed at the
Developer’s expense.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8554
3
Please submit plans for water facilities and/or fire protection system to
Central Arkansas Water for review. Plan revisions may be required after
additional review. Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding procedures
for installation of water facilities and/or fire service. Approval of plans by
the Arkansas Department of Health Engineering Division and Little Rock
Fire Department is required.
METERS AND FIRESERVICE CONNECTIONS WILL BE MADE FROM
MABELVALE PIKE.
Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding the size and location of the
water meter.
A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of meter connection(s) will
apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply to all
connections including metered connections off the private fire system.
Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced
pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the
domestic water service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first
point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon
installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be
completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of
Arkansas and approved by CAW. The tests results must be sent to
CAW’s Cross Connection Section within ten days of installation and
annually thereafter. Contact the Cross connection Section at 377-1226
if you would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this
project.
VICINITY MAP NEEDS TO BE CORRECTED.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per Code.
County Planning: No Comments.
CATA: The site is located on a CATA Bus route.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 13, 2010)
The applicants were present. Staff presented the item and noted additional
information was needed regarding building materials and height, signage, site
lighting and fencing. Staff asked if there would be any other uses such as a
conference/meeting space, restaurant or lounge. Staff noted the survey did not
correctly indicate the 25 foot building lines along both street frontages, as noted
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8554
4
on the 1969 plat. In response to a question from staff, the applicant indicated
there would be no swimming pool.
Public Works, Utility and Landscape Comments were noted. The applicant was
advised to contact those agencies if there were any questions.
The Committee determined there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the
item to the full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the construction of a two-story,
30-room hotel on this vacant, I-2 zoned, .91± acre lot. The proposed hotel will
not contain any other uses such as conference/meeting space, restaurant or
lounge. The site will not have a swimming pool.
Access to the site will be from University Avenue. There will be no access from
Mabelvale Pike, to the rear. The building will be constructed of wood frame with
E.I.F.S. and stone exterior. The building will have a pitched roof and the building
will have a height of approximately 28 feet. A single ground-mounted sign not to
exceed 30 feet in height will be located on the University Avenue perimeter. A
wall sign will also be permitted on the building façade facing University Avenue.
Paved parking is provided for 37 vehicles, exceeding the ordinance requirement
of 33 spaces. Dumpster screening will be installed to comply with ordinance.
The applicant responded to most of the issues raised at Subdivision Committee,
as noted above. A corrected survey has been submitted, showing the 25’
building lines along both street perimeters. To staff’s knowledge, there are no
outstanding issues. The proposed use would appear to be compatible with uses
and zoning in the area. The 1969 bill of assurance for Biehshich Addition does
not address use issues.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested CUP subject to compliance with the
following conditions:
1. Compliance with the comments and conditions in Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the
agenda staff report.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8554
5
2. All site lighting is to be low level and shielded downward and into the site.
3. The ground sign is not to exceed 30 feet in height and 72 square feet in area
(as allowed in the I-2 District).
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff
recommended deferral of the item to the July 15, 2010 meeting to allow the
applicant to meet with neighbors. There was no further discussion. The item
was placed on the consent agenda and approved for deferral by a vote of
10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 13 FILE NO.: G-25-207
Name: Wright Avenue Street Name Change to
Annie Abrams Avenue
Location: Wright Avenue, from Chester Street to
Woodrow Street
Petitioner: The New Africa Alliance, Muhammed K. Rasheed
Request: To rename Wright Avenue, Chester Street to
Woodrow Street, to Annie Abrams Avenue.
Abutting Uses:
This 18 block street is fronted by approximately 50 addresses. The majority of
the addresses are nonresidential. It appears that about 10 residences front onto
the street and take a Wright Avenue address. Several other businesses and
residences take addresses from the intersecting streets. The nonresidential uses
range from a school and lodge to a convenience store and radiator shop. Other
uses include churches, doctor’s office, furniture store and a variety of other small
commercial and office uses. A few of the buildings do appear not to be occupied.
Neighborhood Effect:
The name change will affect the addresses of the several businesses and
residents as noted above.
Neighborhood Position:
The applicant submitted signatures in support of the proposed name change
from 22 individuals indicating Wright Avenue addresses. As previously noted,
approximately 50 addresses front onto Wright Avenue. A few of those addresses
appear to be vacant structures. The 22 signatures appears to represent
approximately 50% of the total occupied addresses on the street.
Notice of the Commission hearing was sent by staff to the Downtown, Central
High, Wright Avenue, Goodwill, Love and Stephens Area Faith Neighborhood
Associations.
The applicant is responsible for notifying all affected properties including
occupants of apartments, business occupants and single family residents.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 13 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-25-207
2
Effect on Public Services:
No opposition has been voiced by any of the reviewing agencies.
The proposed name originally submitted by the applicant was Annie McDaniels
Abrams Avenue. When informed by staff at the May 13, 2010 Subdivision
Committee meeting that the name would not fit on a street sign blade, he agreed
to the shortened name of Annie Abrams Ave.
Twenty-four (24) 9-inch street signs have to be made and replaced at a cost of
$2400 and three (3) 18-inch signs have to be made and replaced at a cost of
$2100. The total cost for manufacturing and installation of the new street signs is
$4500.
Staff Analysis:
The New Africa Alliance has submitted a proposal to rename Wright Avenue,
from Chester Street to Woodrow Street, to Annie Abrams Ave. Supporting
signatures from 22 individuals representing residents and businesses along the
street have also been submitted.
The proposal has been submitted in recognition of Ms. Abrams’ longtime service
to the community and involvement in Little Rock Neighborhood issues.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested street name change.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The applicant was present. There was one registered objector present. Staff
presented the item and a recommendation of approval.
The applicant, Muhammed Rasheed, spoke in support of the application. He
spoke of Ms. Abrams’ work for the community and asked the Commission to
support the proposed street name change. He stated the proposal had the
support of residents and businesses along the street.
A second person, Jamall ? spoke in support.
Director Erma Hendrix spoke in opposition. She read from a statement giving the
history of the name of Wright Avenue. She stated it appeared the street was
named for banker/developer Morehead Wright who developed several
subdivisions in the area in the early 1900’s. She presented a letter of opposition
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 13 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-25-207
3
from Carter radiator Service at 2505 Wright Avenue. Dir. Hendrix stated there
were persons on the street who were not aware of the proposed name change.
She voiced concerns about the possible cost to the City to change the street
signs. She stated she felt is was more appropriate to rename numbered streets
or streets with tree names, not streets that had been named for a person.
Dir. Hendrix referenced an ordinance pending at the Board level that would
protect streets that had been named for individuals. She appealed to the
Commission to deny the application.
Mr. Rasheed stated he understood about Mr. Wright but he felt it was appropriate
to rename the street for Ms. Abrams. He stated he had sent the required notices
via certified mail.
Commissioner Nunnley stated he did not oppose recognizing Ms. Abrams but he
felt renaming the street would lead to confusion. He also questioned if Dunbar
School’s historic status would by affected by the street name change. Staff
responded that they could not answer that.
Commissioner Rector stated the City needed a better policy to deal with street
name changes. Staff responded that one was potentially in the works at the
Board level. Dir. Hendrix agreed.
Commissioner Laha commented that he had previously been affected by an
address change and it had cost him much money.
Commissioner Nunnley commented that he would prefer to put this off until the
new policy was adopted. He asked if the applicant would consider a deferral.
Commissioner Rouse stated he was in favor of renaming numbered streets, not
streets that had named for an individual.
There followed a brief discussion of the value of deferring the application. It was
agreed that the city needed a better policy for addressing street name changes.
The applicant stated he desired to go forward.
Several Commissioners commented in support of Ms. Abrams but not in support
of renaming the street.
A motion was made to approve the application. The motion failed by a vote of
0 ayes, 9 noes and 2 absent.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 14 2010 ORDINANCE AMENDMENT PACKAGE
SUBJECT: Planning Commission receipt and acceptance of a Proposed
Ordinance Amendment package for 2010; directing the Plans
Committee to proceed with review and forwarding the results of
that review for public hearing.
STAFF REPORT:
The subjects in this proposal have been accumulated by staff during the past
years. If the Commission accepts this material as the 2010 work program for
ordinance amendments, staff will distribute the material to contact persons.
Comments received will be forwarded to the Plans Committee for inclusion in the
discussion.
Once the Plans Committee completes its review, the completed package will be
returned to the Commission.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The proposed amendment package was presented to the Commission. There
was no further discussion. The commission voted to accept the proposed
package and to send it to the Plans Committee by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and
1 absent.
2010
ZONING – SUBDIVISION
ORDINANCE
AMENDMENT PROPOSALS
2010
ORDINANCE AMENDMENT PROPOSALS
DRAFT 1 DATE June 3, 2010
Subject Priority
Page in Text
A. Incorrect definition of surveyor in Section 31-2.
4
B. Incorrect title for surveyor in Section 31-91.
5
C. Incorrect title for surveyor in Section 31-117(c).
7
D. Incorrect title for surveyor in Section 31-118.
8
E. Incorrect title for surveyor in Section 31-380(4)(b).
10
F. Incorrect title for surveyor in Section 31-405.
11
G. Incorrect title for surveyor in Section 36-2.
12
H. Proposed change to allowable size of real estate signs in
residential zones.
14
I. Lack of notification procedure for Special Use Permits that
are appealed to Board of Directors.
15
J. Lack of minimum lot area for single family lots in AF
zoning district.
17
K. Typographical error in Section 36-389(f)(2).
18
L. Lack of allowance for ordinary projections in yards other
than side yards (chimney, eaves, etc…)
19
M. Conflict regarding minimum lot area for zero lot line lots
and provision that no lot many be more than 3 times as
deep as it is wide.
20
Page 2
2010
ORDINANCE AMENDMENT PROPOSALS
DRAFT 1 DATE June 3, 2010
Subject Priority
Page in Text
N. Conflict in definition of River Market Design Overlay
District boundaries.
21
O. Clarification of sign code to prohibit signs on right-of-way
other than for trail-blazing signs to public facilities.
22
P. Confusion caused by inclusion of “modular home” within
definition of manufactured home.
24
Q. Amending C-3, C-4 and UU districts to specify that private
clubs are permitted only as C.U.P.’s in those districts.
25
R. Correction to purpose and intent of Design Overlay
Districts.
26
S. Correcting ambiguity in sign code definition of “roof sign”.
27
T. Lack of notification procedure for zoning site plan
applications that are appealed to the Board of Directors.
28
U. Lack of notification procedure for PUD’s and PD’s that are
appealed to the Board of Directors.
29
V. Proposal to permit electric fences in Industrial Districts.
30
Page 3
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Incorrect definition of surveyor in SOURCE: Troy Laha
Section 31-2
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Surveyor means a land surveyor registered in the State.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
The definition is not consistent with the State’s definition.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend definition in Section 31-2 to read as follows:
Surveyor means a professional surveyor registered in the State.
Page 4
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Incorrect title for surveyor in SOURCE:
Section 31-91. “Certificate of Preliminary
Surveying accuracy”.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
CERTIFICATE OF PRELIMINARY SURVEYING ACCURACY
I, , hereby certify that this plat correctly represents a boundary survey
made or verified by me that all surveying requirements of the State of Arkansas and City of Little Rock
Subdivision Rules and Regulations have been complied with and filed for record as required.
Date of Execution Name
Registered Professional
Land Surveyor
N o .
Arkansas
STAFF REPORT: ( )
The title for surveyor is incorrect.
Page 5
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 31-91. “Certificate of Preliminary Surveying Accuracy” to read:
I, , hereby certify that this plat correctly represents a boundary survey
made or verified by me that all surveying requirements of the State of Arkansas and City of Little Rock
Subdivision Rules and Regulations have been complied with and filed for record as required.
Date of Execution Name
Professional Surveyor
N o .
Arkansas
Page 6
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Incorrect title for surveyor in SOURCE: Troy Laha
Section 31-117.(c)
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
(c) Copies of all survey calculations and filed notes shall be submitted for review when requested. When
errors are suspected, the planning commission may cause a surveyor to check the final plat for
correctness. Certification of approval of water supply and sanitary sewage disposal by the appropriate
agency, when not connected to the municipal system, shall be submitted.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
Title for surveyor needs to be changed to remain consistent.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 31-117.(c) to read as follows:
(c) Copies of all survey calculations and filed notes shall be submitted for review when requested. When
errors are suspected, the planning commission may cause a professional surveyor to check the final plat
for correctness. Certification of approval of water supply and sanitary sewage disposal by the
appropriate agency, when not connected to the municipal system, shall be submitted.
Page 7
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Incorrect title for surveyor in SOURCE: Troy Laha
Section 31-118 “Certificate of Surveying
Accuracy”.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
CERTIFICATE OF SURVEYING ACCURACY
I, , hereby certify that this plat correctly represents a boundary survey
made or verified by me, all monuments required actually exist and are correctly shown hereon and that
all surveying requirements of the Little Rock Subdivision Rules and Regulations have been complied.
Date of Execution Name
Registered Professional
Land Surveyor
No.
Arkansas
STAFF REPORT: ( )
Title for surveyor needs to be changed to remain consistent.
Page 8
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 31-118 “Certificate of Surveying Accuracy” to read as follows:
CERTIFICATE OF SURVEYING ACCURACY
I, , hereby certify that this plat correctly represents a boundary survey
made or verified by me, all monuments required actually exist and are correctly shown hereon and that
all surveying requirements of the Little Rock Subdivision Rules and Regulations have been complied.
Date of Execution Name
Professional Surveyor
No.
Arkansas
Page 9
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Incorrect title for surveyor in SOURCE: Troy Laha
Section 31-380 (4)(b) “Monumentation
Requirements”.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
b. Registration number of the surveyor in charge.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
Title of surveyor needs to be changed to remain consistent.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 31-380(4)(b) to read as follows:
b. Registration number of the professional surveyor in charge.
Page 10
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Incorrect title for surveyor in SOURCE: Troy Laha
Section 31-405 “Monuments”
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Sec. 31-405. Monuments
All permanent boundary, lot and street centerline control monuments shall be set in accordance with
section 31-380 of this chapter and shall be indicated on all plats. Removal of any monument by anyone
not under the direct supervision of a Registered Land Surveyor registered under the laws of the state is
prohibited. (Code 1961, § 37-34(i); Ord. No. 15,929, § 1(q), 9-4-90)
STAFF REPORT: ( )
Title for surveyor needs to be changed to remain consistent.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 31-405 to read as follows:
All permanent boundary, lot and street centerline control monuments shall be set in accordance with
section 31-380 of this chapter and shall be indicated on all plats. Removal of any monument by anyone
not under the direct supervision of a Professional Surveyor registered under the laws of the state is
prohibited. (Code 1961, § 37-34(i); Ord. No. 15,929, § 1(q), 9-4-90)
Page 11
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Incorrect title for surveyor in SOURCE: Staff
Section 36-2 definitions of plan; plan, final;
plan, preliminary; plat; plat, final and plat,
preliminary
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Plan means a fully dimensioned drawing which illustrates in detail all elements of a development
proposal including, but not limited to, property lines, streets, easements, structural elements and
landscaping. A plan is prepared by a registered land surveyor, architect or engineer, appropriately
certified.
Plan, final means a fully dimensioned drawing which illustrates in detail all elements of a development
proposal including, but not limited to, property lines, streets, easements, structural elements,
landscaping. A final plan is prepared by a registered land surveyor, architect or engineer. A final plan
further contains proper certification for accuracy and deletes natural land features. Natural land features
and elements illustrated on a preliminary plat are replaced in the final plan by structural elements such as
walls, ditches and other drainage facilities intended to alter land forms.
Plan, preliminary means a fully dimensioned drawing which illustrates in detail all elements of a
development proposal including, but not limited to, property lines, streets, easements, structural
elements, landscaping. A preliminary plan is prepared by a registered land surveyor, architect or
engineer. A preliminary plan further includes all development phase lines providing construction stages,
topography, drainage and other natural land features.
Plat means an engineering drawing which provides for all data related to a development of land and
certified as to accuracy by a land surveyor or engineer.
Plan, final means an engineering drawing which provides for all data related to development of land
certified as to accuracy by a land surveyor or civil engineer, illustrating details necessary, conveying
ownership, dedication, etc. However, no information as to physical features or use is reflected. A final
plat is prepared in a form suitable for recording.
Plan, preliminary means an engineering drawing which provides for all data related to a development of
land certified as to accuracy by a land surveyor or civil engineer, illustrating the details as necessary to
establish a development format with physical land features and usage.
Page 12
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
STAFF REPORT: ( )
In each of these definitions, the title of surveyor needs to be changed to remain consistent.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend each definition in Section 36-2 to read as follows:
Plan means a fully dimensioned drawing which illustrates in detail all elements of a development
proposal including, but not limited to, property lines, streets, easements, structural elements and
landscaping. A plan is prepared by a professional surveyor, architect or engineer, appropriately certified.
Plan, final means a fully dimensioned drawing which illustrates in detail all elements of a development
proposal including, but not limited to, property lines, streets, easements, structural elements,
landscaping. A final plan is prepared by a professional surveyor, architect or engineer. A final plan
further contains proper certification for accuracy and deletes natural land features. Natural land features
and elements illustrated on a preliminary plat are replaced in the final plan by structural elements such as
walls, ditches and other drainage facilities intended to alter land forms.
Plan, preliminary means a fully dimensioned drawing which illustrates in detail all elements of a
development proposal including, but not limited to, property lines, streets, easements, structural
elements, landscaping. A preliminary plan is prepared by a professional surveyor, architect or engineer.
A preliminary plan further includes all development phase lines providing construction stages,
topography, drainage and other natural land features.
Plat means an engineering drawing which provides for all data related to a development of land and
certified as to accuracy by a professional surveyor or engineer.
Plan, final means an engineering drawing which provides for all data related to development of land
certified as to accuracy by a professional surveyor or civil engineer, illustrating details necessary,
conveying ownership, dedication, etc. However, no information as to physical features or use is
reflected. A final plat is prepared in a form suitable for recording.
Plan, preliminary means an engineering drawing which provides for all data related to a development of
land certified as to accuracy by a professional surveyor or civil engineer, illustrating the details as
necessary to establish a development format with physical land features and usage.
Page 13
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Complaint received concerning SOURCE: Citizen
oversized real estate sales sign or residential
lot.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Section 36-550.(3); signs permitted in all zones.
(3) One (1) nonilluminated real estate sign per lot or premises, not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet
in sign area. Such signs must be removed fourteen (14) days following sale, rental or lease.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
A complaint was received regarding what was perceived to be an overlarge sales sign on a residential
lot.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-550.(3) to read as follows:
(3) One (1) nonilluminated real estate sign per lot or premises, not to exceed sixteen (16) square feet in
sign area on residential one and two family zoned properties and thirty-two (32) square feet in all
other zones. Such signs must be removed fourteen (14) days following sale, rental or lease of the
property.
Page 14
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Lack of notification requirement SOURCE: Staff
on special use permit applications that are
appealed to the Board of Directors; Section
36-54.(b).
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
(b) Application procedure. The property owner or an authorized agent shall apply for a special use
permit under the guidelines provided by the city department designated by the city manager. A public
hearing on the special use permit will be held by the planning commission which shall have final
authority. The planning commission shall consider, but shall not be bound by, the lawful provisions of a
valid bill of assurance for the subdivision within which the subject property is located when determining
the appropriateness of the proposed special use. Appeals from the action of the planning commission
shall be filed with the board of directors. The content of the appeal filing shall consist of: (1) a cover
letter addressed to the mayor and board of directors setting forth the request; (2) a copy of the planning
commission application indicating the action and properly executed by the staff. This filing shall occur
within thirty (30) calendar days of the action by the planning commission. No activity which requires said
permit shall be conducted prior to the planning commission approval.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
There is no ordinance requirement for notification of special use permit applications that are appealed to
the Board of Directors.
Page 15
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-54.(b) to read as follows:
(b) Application procedure. The property owner or an authorized agent shall apply for a special use
permit under the guidelines provided by the city department designated by the city manager. A public
hearing on the special use permit will be held by the planning commission which shall have final
authority. The planning commission shall consider, but shall not be bound by, the lawful provisions of a
valid bill of assurance for the subdivision within which the subject property is located when determining
the appropriateness of the proposed special use. Appeals from the action of the planning commission
shall be filed with the board of directors. The content of the appeal filing shall consist of: (1) a cover
letter addressed to the mayor and board of directors setting forth the request; (2) a copy of the planning
commission application indicating the action and properly executed by the staff. This filing shall occur
within thirty (30) calendar days of the action by the planning commission. Certified mail notice of appeal
hearing shall be provided not less than ten (10) days prior to the date of the hearing and the affidavit and
other supporting evidence of notice shall be filed not less than five (5) days prior to the date of review.
This notice shall be given to all record parties in interest whether for or against the request. The cost of
this notice shall be borne by the appellant. No activity which requires said permit shall be conducted
prior to the planning commission approval.
Page 16
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Lack of minimum lot area for single SOURCE: Staff
family lots in AF Agriculture and Forestry zoning
district.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
There is not current ordinance language.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
There is no current ordinance language establishing a minimum lot area for single family lots in the AF
Agriculture and Forestry Zoning District.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-338.(f) to add a new subsection (5) to read as follows:
(5) Lot area regulations. There shall be a minimum lot area of seven thousand (7,000) square feet. In
addition, there shall be a minimum lot width of not less than one hundred (100) feet.
Page 17
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Typographical error in Section SOURCE: Staff
36-389(f)(2); parking requirements in Midtown
Overlay.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
(2) Parking requirements. Parking requirements within the district shall be at least fifty (50) percent of
that required by article VIII. The maximum allowed parking shall be the minimum standard established in
article VII.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
This is a minor typographical error incorrectly referencing Article VII; should be Article VIII.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-389.(f)(2) to read as follows:
(2) Parking requirements. Parking requirements within the district shall be at least fifty (50) percent of
that required by article VIII. The maximum allowed parking shall be the minimum standard established in
article VIII.
Page 18
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Lack of allowance for the ordinary SOURCE: Staff
projection of sills, cornices, buttresses,
ornamental features, eaves and chimneys to
project into a setback other than a side yard
setback not more than 30 inches; Section
36-156.(a)(2)a.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
(2) Area.
a. Every part of a required yard, except as provided herein, shall be open from its lowest point to the
sky unobstructed, except for the ordinary projection of sills, cornices, buttresses, ornamental
features, and eaves, provided, however, that none of the above projections shall project into a
minimum side yard more than thirty (30) inches. This shall be deemed to include chimneys or
similar structural elements which are a permanent feature of a building. The planning director
shall have specific authority to grant a variance from this provision provided the encroachment will
not extend into a required yard setback more than ten (10) percent of the ordinance requirement.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
The Code specifies the allowance of minor projection of structural elements, including chimneys, into a
side yard setback but does not address the setback of such elements into other setbacks. Staff believes
the Code should be clarified to permit the projection into any setback.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-156.(a)(2)a. to read as follows:
(2) Area.
a. Every part of a required yard, except as provided herein, shall be open from its lowest point to the
sky unobstructed, except for the ordinary projection of sills, cornices, buttresses, ornamental
features, and eaves, provided, however, that none of the above projections shall project into a
minimum yard setback more than thirty (30) inches. This shall be deemed to include chimneys or
similar structural elements which are a permanent feature of a building. The planning director
shall have specific authority to grant a variance from this provision provided the encroachment will
not extend into a required yard setback more than ten (10) percent of the ordinance requirement.
Page 19
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Conflict regarding minimum lot SOURCE: Staff
area for zero lot line lots and the provision that
no lot be more than 3 times as deep as it is
wide; Section 31-232.(b).
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
(b) No residential lot shall be more than three (3) times as deep as it is wide, except lots approved
under paragraph (g) of this section. No lot except lots designated for townhouse use shall average less
than one hundred (100) feet in depth. Lot width shall be measured at the building line except in the case
of a lot abutting a cul-de-sac where the average width of the lot shall be used.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
Zero lot line lots are permitted in R-2 and R-3 and PRD’s. The Code specifies that such lots may have a
minimum width of 35 feet but must have a minimum lot area of 4,000 square feet. Section 31-232(b)
states no lot may be more than 3 times as deep as it is wide except if it backs up to a railroad or freeway.
Zero lot line lots meeting the minimum standard for width and depth should also be listed as an exception
to the 3/1 depth/width rule.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
(b) No residential lot shall be more than three (3) times as deep as it is wide, except lots approved under
paragraph (g) of this section and zero lot line lots in the R-2, R-3, PRD and PD-R zoning districts. No lot
except lots designated for townhouse use shall average less than one hundred (100) feet in depth. Lot
width shall be measured at the building line except in the case of a lot abutting a cul-de-sac where the
average width of the lot shall be used.
Page 20
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Conflict in definition of River Market SOURCE: Staff
Design Overlay District Boundaries described
in Section 36-351(b).
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
(b) District boundaries. The district encompasses all parcels in Block 1, Block 2, Block 3, Block 6,
Block 7 and Block 8 of Pope’s Addition; and Block 35 and Block 36 of original city. The district is further
identified on the map attached as exhibit “A”. To the extent required by law, the city zoning map shall be
amended to graphically display the district. (Ord. No. 18,961, § 1, 2, 10-21-03)
STAFF REPORT: ( )
The River Market DOD boundaries are described in lots and block of specific subdivisions. Central
Arkansas Library System has replatted their property into a new subdivision, CALS Addition. The
boundary of the District should be described geographically to define a boundary exclusive of what
subdivisions lie within the area.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-351(b) to read as follows:
(b) District boundaries. The district encompasses all parcels within the area described as: Beginning at
the intersection of the center lines of Second Street and Cumberland Street (southeast of Block 35
Original City of Little Rock), east along the centerline of Second Street to the centerline of the
southbound lanes of Interstate 30, thence north along the centerlines of the southbound lanes of
Interstate 30 for a distance of 600’, thence northwesterly parallel to President Clinton Avenue to the
center of the right-of-way for Cumberland Street, thence southerly along the centerline of Cumberland
Street to the point of beginning.
Page 21
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Clarification of sign code to prohibit SOURCE: Traffic Engineer
signs in the public right-of-way other than for
trail blazing directional signs to a public facility;
Section 36-560.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Sec. 36-560. Signs prohibited in city right-of-way or on city property.
No sign shall be erected upon any city right-of-way, or upon city property, unless:
(1) a. The sign provides directions to a specific location; or
b. The sign identifies a specific location such as the name of a neighborhood, or the
identification of a structure, and
(2) a. The city has expressly enacted a franchise for the placement of the sign; or
b. The sign is located on public property under lease to a specific person, or entity, and that
person or entity is granted authority in the lease agreement to permit the placement of
such a sign.
Any sign placed, erected, or found in the city right-of-way, or upon city property, in violation of this
provision shall be subject to immediate removal by the city. (Ord. No. 18,767, § 2, 10-15-02)
STAFF REPORT: ( )
The City discourages the placement of signs in the public right-of-way but recognizes the value,
particularly to tourists, of having some directional or trail-blazing signage to public facilities and buildings.
Page 22
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Sec. 36-560. Signs prohibited in city right-of-way or on city property.
No sign shall be erected upon any city right-of-way, or upon city property, unless:
(1) a. The sign provides directions to a specific public location or facility; or
b. The sign identifies a specific location such as the name of a neighborhood, or the
identification of a public structure, and
(2) a. The city has expressly enacted a franchise for the placement of the sign; or
b. The sign is located on public property under lease to a specific person, or entity, and that
person or entity is granted authority in the lease agreement to permit the placement of such
a sign.
Any sign placed, erected, or found in the city right-of-way, or upon city property, in violation of this
provision shall be subject to immediate removal by the city. (Ord. No. 18,767, § 2, 10-15-02)
Page 23
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Confusion caused by inclusion of SOURCE: Staff/Planning Commission
term “modular home” within definition
manufactured home; Section 36-2.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Within definition of “manufactured home” is the following statement:
This definition shall be deemed to include modular homes that are factory assembled.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
As a result of staff research and planning commission concurrence, it was determined that modular
homes, which are inspected in the same manner as site-built homes, should not be included within the
definition of manufactured homes.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-2 to remove the above sentence from the definition of manufactured home.
Page 24
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Proliferation of and enforcement SOURCE: Staff
difficulties associated with private clubs.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Private club with dining or bar service mean a group of people associated or formally organized for a
common purpose, interest or pleasure. Facilities include dining or bar accommodations, none of which
are available except to members or their guests.
These uses are permitted by right in C-3, C-4 and UU.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
There have been concerns raised by staff, citizens or other City Enforcement agencies concerning the
proliferation of and impact caused by private clubs. These clubs stay open past the hours of other
establishments and can potentially have a negative impact on area businesses and residents. Staff
believes the additional level of scrutiny afforded by the conditional use permit review process is
appropriate.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend the C-2, C-3 and UU zoning districts to specify that private clubs are permitted in those districts
only as a conditional use; Sections 36-300, 36-301 and 36-342.1.
Page 25
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Conflict in purpose and intent SOURCE: Staff
language for Design Overlay Districts.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Sec. 36-342. DOD design overlay district.
(a) Purpose and intent. One purpose of the design overlay district is to provide enhanced design
standards to protect and enhance the unique natural scenic beauty or features of a particular corridor
while providing for development opportunities. Design overlay districts may also be used to protect or
facilitate a particular design theme established through a certain architectural style or period.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
The current language in the “purpose and intent” section of the Code for design overlay districts speaks
only to allowing DOD corridors. It needs to be broadened to encompass more than corridors.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-342 to read as follows:
(a) Purpose and intent. One purpose of the design overlay district is to provide enhanced design
standards to protect and enhance the unique natural scenic beauty or features of a particular corridor or
area while providing for development opportunities. Design overlay districts may also be used to protect
or facilitate a particular design theme established through a certain architectural style or period.
Page 26
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Ambiguity in definition of “roof sign”, SOURCE: Board of Adjustment
Section 36-530.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Sec. 36-530
Roof sign means any sign erected over or on the roof of a building.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
The Board of Adjustment recently found the ordinance definition of “roof sign” to be ambiguous and
recommended that the definition be changed.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend roof sign definition in Section 36-530 to read:
Roof sign means a sign which is mounted on the roof of a building or which is attached to a building and
which extends above or higher than the top edge of the exterior wall or parapet of a flat-roofed building,
above or higher than the eave line of a building with a hip, gambrel or gable roof or above or higher than
the deck line of a building with a mansard roof.
Page 27
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Lack of notification requirement for SOURCE: Staff
zoning site plan applications that are appealed
to the Board of Directors; Section 36-134.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Sec. 36-134. Appeals.
Appeals from the action of the planning commission shall be filed with the board of directors. The
content of the appeal filing shall consist of: (1) A cover letter addressed to the mayor and board of
directors setting forth the request; (2) a copy of the planning commission application indicating the action
and properly executed by the staff. This filing shall occur within thirty (30) calendar days of the action by
the planning commission. No activity which requires said permit shall be conducted prior to the planning
commission approval.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
There is no ordinance requirement for notification of zoning site plan applications that are appealed to the
Board of Directors.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-134. to read as follows:
Sec. 36-134. Appeals.
Appeals from the action of the planning commission shall be filed with the board of directors. The
content of the appeal filing shall consist of: (1) A cover letter addressed to the mayor and board of
directors setting forth the request; (2) a copy of the planning commission application indicating the action
and properly executed by the staff. This filing shall occur within thirty (30) calendar days of the action by
the planning commission. Certified notice of appeal hearing shall be provided not less than ten (10) days
prior to the date of the hearing and the affidavit and other supporting evidence of notice shall be filed not
less than five (5) days prior to the date of review. This notice shall be given to all record parties in
interest whether for or against the request. The cost of this notice shall be borne by the appellant. No
activity which requires said permit shall be conducted prior to the planning commission approval.
Page 28
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Lack of notification requirement for SOURCE: Staff
PUD's or PD’s that are appealed to the Board of
Directors; Section 36-454.(c); paragraph four (4).
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Appeals from the action of the planning commission shall be filed with the city clerk. The content of the
appeal filing shall consist of (1) a cover letter addressed to the mayor and board of directors setting forth
the request; (2) a copy of the application indicating the planning commission action and properly
executed by the staff. This filing shall occur within thirty (30) calendar days of the action of the planning
commission.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
There is no ordinance requirement for notification of PUD’s or PD’s that are appealed to the Board of
Directors.
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Amend Section 36-454(c) paragraph 4 to read as follows:
Appeals from the action of the planning commission shall be filed with the city clerk. The content of the
appeal filing shall consist of (1) a cover letter addressed to the mayor and board of directors setting forth
the request; (2) a copy of the application indicating the planning commission action and properly
executed by the staff. This filing shall occur within thirty (30) calendar days of the action of the planning
commission. Certified mail notice of appeal hearing shall be provided not less than ten (10) days prior to
the date of the hearing and the affidavit and other supporting evidence of notice shall be filed not less
than five (5) days prior to the date of the review. This notice shall be given to all record parties in interest
whether for or against the request. The cost of this notice shall be borne by the appellant.
Page 29
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
PROBLEM: Proposal to permit electric fences SOURCE: Citizen, Industry
in Industrial Districts for properties with approved
areas of outdoor storage or display.
CURRENT ORDINANCE LANGUAGE:
Sec. 36-516(d)
(d) [Use of materials intended to inflict injury.] For purposes of this section the use of barbed,
concertina wire or other types of wire specifically designed to inflict injury upon human contact is
prohibited except when used at the top of fences at least six (6) feet above grade enclosing business or
manufacturing premises. When such wire is used, it shall not extend outside the vertical plane of the
enclosed property. Electrically charged fences are prohibited.
STAFF REPORT: ( )
Staff has been approached on more than one occasion by individuals wishing to erect electric fences to
protect areas of outdoor storage. The proposed language would permit the use of a type of electric
fence that has proven to be safe and effective. Numerous cities across the country have adopted the
proposed text. The City’s building codes officials, police department and fire department have reviewed
the proposed amendment and have no objectors.
Page 30
2010 PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
DRAFT 1
DATE June 3, 2010
SUGGESTED TEXT: ( )
Delete Section 36-516(d) in its entirety and replace it with the following text:
(d) Security fencing
(1) Barbed and Razor Wire Fences
For purposes of this section the use of barbed, concertina wire or other types of wire
specifically designed to inflict injury upon human contact is prohibited except when used
at the top of fences at least six (6) feet above grade enclosing business or manufacturing
premises. When such wire is used, it shall not extend outside the vertical plan of the
enclosed property.
(2) Electric Fences
No electric fence shall be installed, operated or maintained except as provided in this
subsection.
(a) Electric fences shall be constructed, maintained and operated in conformance with
the specifications set forth in International Electrotechnical Commission Standard
60335-2-76.
(b) The electric charge produced by the fence upon contact shall not exceed energizer
characteristics set forth in paragraph 22.108 and depicted in Figure 102 of International
Electrotechnical Commission Standard No. 60335-2-76.
(c) Electric fences shall be completely surrounded on the side facing the property exterior
by a non-electrified fence or wall that is not less than six feet in height and at least six
inches from the electric fence.
(d) Electric fences may be installed, operated or maintained only on industrial sites with
approved areas of outdoor storage or display.
(e) Electric fences shall be clearly identified with warning signs that read “Warning – Electric
Fence” or similar terms and which are posted at intervals of not more than 50 feet with at
least one sign on each exterior perimeter side of the fence.
(f) Each electric fence must have a switch or other approved device on the outside in the
gate area to disarm the entire electric fence (for Police and Fire Department access).
(g) No electric fence shall be installed until after certification from the Department of
Planning and Development that the plans for the fence meet the requirements of this
subsection and a permit is obtained for the fence.
Page 31
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 15 FILE NO.: LU10-09-01
NAME: Land Use Plan Amendment – I-630 Planning District (12th Street)
LOCATION: From University Avenue to Union Pacific RR, I-630 to 17th Street
REQUEST: From Residential Low Density, Residential Medium Density, Office,
Commercial, Public Institutional, and Mixed Use to Office,
Commercial, Public Institutional, Mixed Use, and Mixed Use-Urban
SOURCE: City Staff and 12th Street Corridor Steering Committee
PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
A Land Use Plan amendment package in the I-630 Planning District from
Residential Low Density, Residential Medium Density, Office, Commercial, Public
Institutional, and Mixed Use to Office, Commercial, Public Institutional, Mixed
Use, and Mixed Use-Urban. Office represents a mixture of office related
services. Commercial represents a broad range of retail and wholesale sales of
products, personal and professional services, and general business activities.
Public Institutional represents public and quasi-public facilities that provide a
variety of services to the community. Mixed Use represents a mixture of
residential, office and commercial uses to occur. Mixed Use-Urban represents a
mix of residential, office and commercial uses not only in the same block but also
within the same structure to allow dissimilar uses to exist, which support each
other to create a vital area. The application is requested to modify the City Land
Use Plan to be more consistent with the recently developed and accept 12th
Street Corridor Study.
MASTER STREET PLAN:
12th Street is a Minor Arterial on the Master Street Plan, as are Fair Park
Boulevard and Woodrow Street. University Avenue is a Principal Arterial on the
Master Street Plan and Pine and Cedar Streets are Collectors. The primary
function of a Principal Arterial is to move vehicles and goods through and within
the area –long distances. The primary function of a Minor Arterial is to move
vehicles and goods within the area – short distances. The primary function of a
Collector is to move vehicles and goods from local streets to the Arterial network.
These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street
improvements for entrances and exits to sites.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 15 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU10-09-01
2
BICYCLE PLAN:
12th Street from University Avenue to Pine/Cedar Streets is shown as a Class III
bicycle route. 13th Street from Pine/Cedar Streets to Jones Street is shown as a
Class II bicycle route. A Class II route is within the street right-of-way and
provides a minimum four-foot lane for the sole use of bicycles. A Class III route
is within the street right-of-way and the bicycles and motor vehicles share the
travel lane.
PARKS PLAN:
According to the Master Parks Plan, this entire area is within eight-blocks of a
park or open space. Oak Forest, War Memorial and Fletcher Parks are within the
area.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS:
There is no city recognized historic district within the area of the amendments.
ANALYSIS:
At the December 17, 2009 meeting of the Little Rock Planning Commission the
12th Street Corridor Study was presented. The Commission unanimous
approved a resolution of support at that meeting. The 12th Street Corridor
Steering Committee had worked for over a year with residents, property owners,
interested groups and a consultant team to develop a framework to guide the
future of the 12th Street Corridor from approximately University Avenue to
Woodrow Street. As part of the document produced with this effort and
presented to the Commission in December of 2009, land use plan
recommendations for the future development of the study area were included.
The future land use plan recommendation in the 12th Street Corridor Study is
slightly different in a few areas from the City of Little Rock Future Land Use Plan.
Staff reviewed the difference between the two documents in December 2009 and
January 2010. A map illustrating the areas of difference was created. Staff and
representatives of the Street Committee met to discuss the differences and a
‘package’ of land use changes was developed in January/February 2010.
All property owners of parcels where a difference was noted were notified and a
meeting was held at the Hinton Resource Center to review the changes. Over
200 property owners were notified and over 50 attended the meeting on March
22, 2010. In addition just less than a dozen phone and email contacts were
made to staff. Almost all of the questions were informational, the only other was
a question about ‘why now?’
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 15 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU10-09-01
3
Staff believes the changes are generally minor in nature with many allowing the
property owners additional future use options. From the meeting and contacts
there does not appear to be any opposition to the ‘package’ of changes. To
more easily understand the changes they will be reviewed by five areas.
The eastern most area of change includes two changes. The first is north of 12th
Street generally from Fillmore to Fair Park Boulevard. The amendment would be
from Commercial and Mixed Use to Public Institutional. The change is to reflect
a new sanctuary and parking for St. Marks Church. The land is currently zoned
C-3 General Commercial, I-2 Light Industrial and PD-O Planned Development
Office. There is a commercial retail center, some commercial uses, and support
facilities for the Church currently on the properties. St. Marks does own all the
property, and the Planning Commission has approved a PCD (Planned
Commercial District) for a new sanctuary and parking for this land. The change
would reflect the likely future development on the land.
The second change is at the southwest corner of Fair Park Boulevard and 12th
Street. The amendment would be from Office and Residential Low Density to
Commercial. The current zoning is C-1, ‘Neighborhood Commercial’ and the use
is a Walgreen’s drug store. The change would reflect the current and likely future
use of the land.
The next area is either side of 12th Street generally from Tyler to Van Buren
Streets. The amendment would be from Residential Low Density to Office.
Along the south side of 12th Street, the zoning is C-3 General Commercial and
the use is medical offices and related parking. Along the north side of 12th
Street, the zoning is POD (Planned Office District) and R-3 Single Family. The
use is parking related to medical offices. The change would reflect the current
and likely future use of the land.
The next area, moving west, would be either side of 12th Street generally from
Madison to Peyton Streets. The amendment would be from Commercial to
Mixed Use. Along the north side of 12th Street, the zoning is C-3 General
Commercial, PDC & PCD (Planned District Commercial, Planned Commercial
District) and I-2 Light Industrial. The existing development pattern is various
commercial and retail uses. Along the south side of 12th Street is zoned C-3
General Commercial and R-3 Single Family. The existing uses include a strip
center, service station and other retail uses. The 12th Street Corridor Study
envisions this area transitioning into a more urban commercial form with some
residential mixed (possible on second floors). The change would allow the
existing pattern to continue but also allows for the possible of redevelopment
consistent with the 12th Street Corridor Study.
The next area is generally a 3-block wide area from I-630 to 14th Street, Elm
Street to Oak Street. The amendment would be from Residential Low Density,
Residential Medium Density, Office, Commercial, and Mixed Use to Mixed Use-
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 15 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU10-09-01
4
Urban. The areas north of 12th Street is zoned R-3 Single Family, R-4 Duplex,
PCD (Planned Commercial District), O-3 General Office. Most of the existing
uses are single-family or duplex. The area along 12th Street is zoned C-3
General Commercial, R-3 Single-Family, R-4 Duplex, R-5 Urban Residential
PCD (Planned Commercial District) and POD (Planned Office District). The uses
include various retail and commercial uses as well as the small church and
single-family homes. The area south of 12th Street is zoned C-3 General
Commercial, R-3 Single Family and R-4 Duplex. Most of the existing uses are
single-family homes, with a business and vacant commercial building on 13th
around Pine. The change is to allow the transition of the area consistent with the
redevelopment proposed by the 12th Street Study. A second change is the block
between 12th and 11th Streets, Maple and Valentine Streets. The amendment
would be from Mixed Use and Residential Low Density to Public Institutional.
The existing zoning is POD (Planned Office District) and R-3 Single Family. The
current uses are vacant and single-family. The City has approved a
redevelopment of this block for a group-housing situation with training, office and
education facilities. The change would reflect the approved redevelopment of the
land.
The next area is at the western end. It includes two changes. The first is from
Residential Low Density to Public Institutional either side of Johnson north of 13th
Street. This is land zoned R-3 Single-family but used as parking for a church on
12th Street. The change reflects the current and likely future use of the land. The
second area is either side of Woodrow from I-630 to 12th Street. The amendment
is from Commercial and Residential Medium Density to Mixed Use. The zoning
is R-3 Single-family with C-3 General Commercial at the intersection of 12th
Street and Woodrow Street, as well as O-3 General Office, I-2 Light Industrial
and R-4 Duplex. The current uses are generally single-family homes north of
12th Street with some duplexes. At the intersection are commercial and retail
uses. The change would allow the existing pattern to continue but also allows for
the possible of redevelopment consistent with the 12th Street Corridor Study.
Staff sent out 229 notices of this public hearing to property owners the second
week in May. In that letter, property owners were invited to send comments on
the proposed changes to staff and/or attend the hearing to provide those
comments to the Commission.
Staff Recommendation:
Approval
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The item was placed on consent agenda for approval. By a vote of 10 for and
0 against the consent agenda was approved.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 16
Name: River Market Design Overlay District Revision
Location: An area generally bounded by riverfront Park, Interstate 30, Second
Street, and Cumberland Street.
Request: Revise the Design Overlay District for the area
Source: Staff, River Market Ordinance Review committee, and River Market
Design Review Committee
The City of Little Rock Board of Directors instructed the Planning Commission in early
2009 to review the River Market Design Overlay District ordinance for possible changes.
The City Manager appointed a committee to review the ordinance and that committee
meet between March 2009 and April 2010. The committee included property owners, a
developer, a merchant, a restaurant owner, a representative of the Downtown
Partnership, a Planning Commissioner, and a member of the Board of Adjustment.
Two public meetings were held for the property owners and other interested parties to
attend, (one at the beginning and one near the end of the process). Summaries of all
meetings were emailed to all participants of the first public meeting (and others that
wished to be included on the email list) and the Review Committee after each
committee meeting.
The committee took issues and comments from the first public meeting and worked
though the list. Results were presented at the second public meeting. At that meeting,
no one expressed opposition to what is included in the final draft. All persons involved
were given notice of June 3rd meeting.
The River Market Ordinance Review Committee gained consensus on the package
presented to the Planning Commission. A presentation was made to the River Market
Neighborhood Association.
The changes below were generated by the River Market Ordinance Review Committee
(RM ORC).
Sec 36-356. Building form
The building form section is where the height restriction is listed. Currently, the
maximum height of all buildings “erected or structurally altered” is 48 feet. The proposal
is to change it to be 60 feet. That will allow for four floors of commercial height of 15’
each or any combination of floors and heights that do not exceed 60 feet. This is an
increase of 12 feet over the current language.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 16 (Cont.) RIVER MARKET DESIGN OVERLAY DISTRICT
2
Change the term “lower level” to “Street level” when referring to a buildings style and
form.
Sec 36-353 Signs
Sizes of signage
The Sign portion of the ordinance has some proposed changes. Most of the variances
heard by the Board of Adjustment are regarding signage. The size allowable on wall
signs, awning signs, and projecting signs has been increased to be double from what
they are now. Currently, most businesses can have a 12 square foot sign, for example,
a 3’ x 4’. The proposed would let them have a 25 square foot sign, for example, a 5’ x
5’. Signs facing the Arkansas River have increased in size also to a maximum of 10%
of the façade. The requirements of letters being less than 18” in height, the
requirements of lettering that cannot be more that 3/4 the height of the sign and the
requirements of lettering that cannot be more than 60% of the total area of the sign are
proposed to be removed from the ordinance.
Source of illumination
The source of illumination on signage is proposed to be changed. The current wording
was to have lighting fixtures that are not visible, but the new wording proposed is to
have the lighting fixtures be decorative and integral to the design of the sign or
concealed.
Projecting Sign thickness
The thickness of projecting signs has been increased to include the working parts to
make neon signs illuminated on each side.
Signs that face Arkansas River
In the section on signs that face the Arkansas River, add the work “building” to the end
of the phrase festive atmosphere that has been established by the Riverfest
Amphitheatre and the River Market.
Proposed Sec 36-366.1 Exceptions
Exceptions to Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment were clarified. Those
changes that involve creating new or additional space will require a PZD with a hearing
at the Planning Commission and Board of Directors. Those variances from the code
that do not involve creating new or additional space will go the Board of Adjustment.
The committee felt that larger projects should have an increased amount of public
involvement. The Board of Adjustment and the Planning Commission hearing are just
for those items that require a variance from the ordinance. All items require a hearing of
the DRC.
Sec 36-366. Maintenance
Throughout the meetings with the committee and the public, litter was a topic that
reoccurred. It was decided to add litter to that section as a city responsibility.
June 3, 2010
ITEM NO.: 16 (Cont.) RIVER MARKET DESIGN OVERLAY DISTRICT
3
Sec 36-351. Boundaries
The current language lists the area in blocks and lots. If a person re-subdivides their
land and renames the subdivision, a loophole is created to exempt them from the
ordinance. The proposed change is to describe the area based on primarily street
centerlines for a metes and bounds type description. The area of the Design Overlay
District will not change.
Sec. 36-367. River Market District Design Review Committee.
Changes the makeup of the committee from three property owners or their
representatives to two; add an additional design professional; and changes the
representative from the entity that manages the River Market to a representative of the
Downtown Partnership.
Sec. 36-358. Landscaping.
Recognizing the ginkgo trees on Second Street that replaced the Green Ash trees that
died.
(The following change was generated by the RM DRC. It will be a separate vote at the
Planning Commission and Board hearings.)
Sandwich Boards Signs
The number of sandwich boards allowed has been modified to a maximum of one every
25 feet not to exceed six per 300 feet, which would reduce potential clutter of too many
sandwich boards. 300 feet is the standard block size in downtown and 25 feet is a
standard store width. The DRC has proposed that the materials suitable for a sandwich
board sign be changed form an all wood or wood products sign to also include plastic
signs that area encased in wood or have simulated wood trim. Maintenance issues
were address as to when the sign could be displayed, prevention of them overturning,
and not being able to attached items to the signs (balloons, papers, etc.)
Staff has received comments from citizens during the public meetings, but has not
received any phone calls or emails after the public meetings.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the proposed changes.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 3, 2010)
The item was placed on consent agenda for approval. By a vote of 10 for and
0 against the consent agenda was approved.
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June 3, 2010
There being no further business before the Commission, the meeting
was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.