pc_07 02 2015LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
PLANNING —REZONING —CONDITIONAL USE HEARING
MINUTE RECORD
JULY 2,2015
4:00 P.M.
I.Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum
A Quorum was present being ten (10)in number.
II.Members Present:Jennifer Martinez Belt
Craig Berry
Alan Bubbus
Buelah Bynum
Keith Cox
Janet Dillon
Rebecca Finney
Scott Hamilton
Paul Latture
Bill May
Members Absent:Tom Brock
City Attorney:Shawn Overton
III.Approval of the Minutes of the May 21,2015 Meeting of the Little Rock
Planning Commission.The Minutes were approved as presented.
LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
PLANNING —REZONING —CONDITIONAL USE HEARING
JULY 2,2015
4:00 P.M.
I.OLD BUSINESS:
A.Consideration of Ordinance to allow greater ease in Developing Low
Impact Development Projects and Amendments to Sec.36-508
Pavement Requirements and Sec.36-521 General Provisions.
B.Z-7969-D LaPalapa Revised Short-form PCD,located at 18321
Cantrell Road.
C.Z-9023-A Cell Phone Hospital Short-form PCD,located at 6608
Baseline Road.
I I.NEW BUSINESS:
Item Number:File Number:Title:
1.LA-0064 Mabelvale Pike Timber Harvest Variance
28.1 Acres located north of 10312 W.Baseline Road
2.Z-1465-E NuLife Christian Fellowship Church —Conditional Use
Permit
4601 S.University Avenue
3.Z-4285-C Catholic High School Athletic Fieldhouse —Revised
Conditional Use Permit
6300 Father Tribou Drive
4.Z-4289-A Branch Communications Cellular Tower—
Tower Use Permit
9300 Geyer Springs Road
5.Z-4537-C Sophisticated Urban Clothing —Conditional Use Permit
4215 Asher Avenue
6.Z-8570-C Verizon Wireless —Tower Use Permit
20001 Kanis Road
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:A
NAME:LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCES
REQUEST:APPROVAL OF ORDINANCES
SOURCE:STAFF
In 2012,the City of Little Rock received a grant from the Arkansas Natural Resources
Commission to demonstrate the benefits of rain gardens and other water filtrations
through the use of clean water initiatives and to educate the community about such.
With grant funding,the City of Little Rock (CLR)has been re-working parts of four
blocks of Main Street utilizing Low Impact Development (LID)and other green
infrastructure applications such as porous pavers,tree wells,rain gardens,etc.to
improve water quality.Once the 500 block is finished,the streetscape demonstration
portion of the project will be completed.
In the grant application,the City expressed its desire to research and consider the
passage of a Low Impact Development ordinance.Because Public Works plans to
update and revise the Stormwater Management and Drainage Manual in the coming
year to include the incorporation of LID principles,staff recommended a limited,
permissive,and voluntary ordinance at this time.Likewise,the Planning Department
recommended a second limited ordinance to cover aspects of the parking and
landscape requirements that might be problematic to those wishing to do LID.
Low Impact Development is different from conventional stormwater management.While
traditional stormwater management focuses on moving untreated stormwater runoff off-
site as quickly as possible,LID focuses on retaining stormwater on-site and maximizing
pollutant removal and infiltration of runoff through the execution of a number of best
management practices.For example,while a conventional development might use one
large retention pond,an LID development might utilize several smaller practices,such
as pervious surfaces,grassy swales,bioretention areas,constructed wetlands,and
others to create a "treatment chain"of stormwater management techniques.
Where Traditional Stormwater Development
~Focuses on large,infrequent storms
~Prevents flooding by mitigating peak flow rates,
Low Impact Development
~Focuses on small,infrequent storms
~Reduces total stormwater runoff volume
~Promotes infiltration and groundwater recharge
~Improves and protects water quality
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:A Cont.
The Arkansas River and other natural features of Little Rock make this city a highly
desirable place to live,work and play;therefore,it is important that the City
accommodates new development in a manner that preserves and enhances these
valuable resources.
In the case of both ordinances,the intent is to facilitate Low Impact Development for
those who choose to do it.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the ordinances.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(MAY 21,2015)
Staff informed the Commission that additional modifications were being made to the
proposed ordinance.Staff recommended deferral of the issue to the July 2,2015
agenda,so that the modifications could be made and distributed to the Commission for
review.
The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and deferred to the July 2,2015 agenda
by a vote of 9 ayes,0 nays and 2 absent.
UPDATE:
Planning and Public Works reviewed the revised ordinances,which have been sent to
key stakeholders for review.The Little Rock Realtors Association met with staff to
discuss the proposed changes.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JULY 2,2015)
Marsha Guffey,Grants Department Coordinator,presented the item.She gave some
background on the Natural Resources Commission grant and the Main Street
Demonstration project.She stated a condition of the grant was that the City develops
a Low Impact Development (LID)Ordinance.Ms.Guffey stated the proposed ordinance
was limited,permissive and voluntary.She stated the proposed ordinance allows use
of LID best practices and makes it easier to utilize LID if a developer wishes to.
Ms.Guffey stated the Public Works Department was embarking on a complete re-do
of the City's Stormwater Management Manual and there will be further,specific
LID-related changes coming.
2
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:A Cont.
Ruth Bell,of the League of Women Voters of Pulaski County,spoke in support of the
proposed ordinance.
There was no further discussion.A motion was made and seconded to approve the
item.The motion was approved by a vote of 10 ayes,0 noes andi absent.
3
IT, 111119"A
I ORDINANCE NO.
2
3 AN ORDINANCE TO ALLOW THE USE OF LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT
4 (LID) TECHNIQUES AS AN OPTION FOR STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
5 WHEN DEVELOPING COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL, AND MULTI - FAMILY
6 GREATER THAN MF -6 UNITS PER ACRE PROJECTS, WITHOUT HAVING
7 TO SEEK A VARIANCE FROM THE CITY OF LITTLE ROCK PLANNING
8 COMMISSION.
9
10 WHEREAS, the City of Little Rock is committed to reducing the volume of nonpoint source runoff,
11 including stormwater, flowing into its storm sewer system, improving the water quality of its surface
12 waters, and decreasing underground stormwater conveyance that may ultimately runoff into the Arkansas
13 River.
14 WHEREAS, Unlike traditional storm water management, which collects and conveys storm water runoff through
15 storm drains, pipes, or other conveyances to a centralized storm water facility, Low Impact Development (LID) takes a
16 different approach. It utilizes design techniques to maintain as closely as practical the site's pre - development runoff rates
17 and volumes for the required event. The goal of LID is to mimic a site's pre- development hydrology by using design
18 techniques that infiltrate, filter, store, evaporate, and detain runoff close to the source.
19
20 WHEREAS, the City of Little Rock has determined that allowing LID techniques to be utilized when
21 developing commercial, industrial, and multi - family greater MF -6 units per acre sites protects water
22 quality, reduces runoff, reduces impervious spaces, encourages open spaces, protects significant
23 vegetation, and reduces land disturbance,
24 WHEREAS, the City of Little Rock does not currently allow the utilization of LID techniques as an
25 option for stormwater management requirements in land development projects without first having to
26 obtain a variance from the City of Little Rock Planning Commission or Board of Adjustment.
27 WHEREAS, it is the intent of the City of Little Rock to provide an optional provision for
28 implementing stormwater LID techniques for commercial, industrial, and multi- family greater than MF -6
29 units per acre development.
30 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CITY
31 OF LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS:
32 Section 1. The City of Little Rock shall allow the use of Low Impact Development techniques when
33 developing commercial, industrial, and multi - family greater than MF -6 units per acre as approved by the
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Public Works Director, or his /her designee, without having to seek out a variance from the City of Little
Rock Planning Commission.
Section 2. The Public Works Director shall have the discretion to determine whether the LID
techniques employed have reached the standards and guidelines set forth in the Stormwater Management
and Drainage Manual.
Section 3. Definitions.
The following terms used in this ordinance shall have the following meanings:
1). Low Impact Development (LID) is an approach to land development (or re- development) that
works with nature to manage stormwater as close to its source as possible. LID employs principles such
as preserving and recreating natural landscape features, minimizing effective imperviousness to create
functional and appealing site drainage that treats stormwater as a resource rather than a waste product.
2). Stormwater runoff means water that results from precipitation which is not absorbed by the soil,
evaporated into the atmosphere, or entrapped by ground surface depressions and vegetation, which flows
over the ground surface.
Section 4. Applicability. This ordinance shall apply to all of the lands located within the City of
Little Rock including its extraterritorial jurisdiction. This ordinance applies to commercial, office,
industrial, and multi - family units greater than MF -6 units per acre. It does not apply to facilities in the
public right of way.
Section 5. Low Impact Development Site Design Strategies.
A) Generally, site design strategies address the arrangement of buildings, roads, parking areas, and
other features, and the conveyance of stormwater runoff across the site. LID site design strategies are
intended to complement the natural and built environment while minimizing the generation of runoff.
The LID design strategies should address some or all of the following considerations:
1). Necessary grading and land disturbance should be designed to encourage sheet flow and lengthen
stormwater flow paths.
2). Natural drainage divides should be maintained to keep flow paths dispersed.
3). Areas of impervious surfaces should be separated and stormwater should be conveyed across
vegetated areas. This assists runoff filtration and encourages infiltration.
4). Small -scale LID techniques should be distributed across the development site in order to
maximize benefits.
5). Naturally vegetated areas and soil types that slow runoff, filter pollutants and facilitate infiltration
should be preserved.
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6). Low Impact Development systems and structures should be integrated into the natural and built
landscape with attention to flow paths, infiltration areas and the use of appropriate native plant materials.
Section 6. Submittal Requirements. The applicant shall submit a drainage report that provides all
necessary information to support the LID design elements within the development. It shall include
specifications and technical information for the site specific design details that supports the proposed LID
systems and structures.
A maintenance plan shall also be submitted so that the LID facility shall remain effective as originally
approved.
Section 7. Severability. In the event any title, section, paragraph, item, sentence, clause, phrase, or
word of this ordinance is declared or adjudged to be invalid or unconstitutional, such declaration or
adjudication shall not affect the remaining portions of the ordinance which shall remain in full force and
effect as if the portion so declared or adjudged to be invalid or unconstitutional were not originally a part
of the ordinance.
Section 8. Repealer. All laws, ordinances, resolutions, or parts of the same that are inconsistent with
the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency.
PASSED:
ATTEST:
Susan Langley, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM:
Thomas M. Carpenter, City Attorney
/1
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APPROVED:
Mark Stodola, Mayor
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ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 36 OF
THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LITTLE ROCK TO ALLOW
THE USE OF LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT (LID)
WHEREAS, the City of Little Rock is committed to reducing the volume of nonpoint source runoff,
including stormwater, flowing into its storm sewer system, improving the water quality of its surface
waters, and decreasing underground stormwater conveyance that may ultimately runoff into the Arkansas
River.
WHEREAS, Unlike traditional stormwater management, which collects and conveys stormwater
runoff through storm drains, pipes, or other conveyances to a centralized stormwater facility, Low Impact
Development (LID) takes a different approach. It utilizes design techniques to maintain as closely as
practical the site's pre - development runoff rates and volumes for the required rainfall event. The goal of
LID is to mimic a site's pre - development hydrology by using design techniques that infiltrate, filter, store,
evaporate, and detain runoff close to the source.
WHEREAS, the current City of Little Rock Zoning Ordinance does not currently allow the
utilization of LID techniques as an option for stormwater management requirements in land development
projects without first having to obtain a variance from the City of Little Rock Planning Commission or
Board of Adjustment.
WHEREAS, it is the intent of the City of Little Rock to amend its current zoning ordinance to allow
Low Impact Development (LID).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CITY
OF LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS:
Section 1. The Code of Ordinances, Chapter 36, Section 36 -508, is hereby amended to add a second
paragraph to read as follows:
Low Impact Development (LID) facilities and techniques are allowed to be used for parking lot
design and construction, unless conditions make LID infeasible as determined by the Director of Public
Works or his /her designee. LID techniques for parking lot design include, but are not limited to, pervious
surfacing and bioretention swales. Pervious surfacing may be an option for all or a portion of the
vehicular use area depending on the use, soil conditions and associated vehicular traffic. Pervious
surfacing includes, but is not limited to, paving blocks, pervious concrete and porous asphalt.
[PAGE 1 OF 2]
ORDINANCE
I The surface of the vehicular use area shall be maintained to comply with the approved plan.
2 Section 2. The Code of Ordinances Chapter 36, Section 36 -510, is hereby amended to add a second
3 paragraph to read as follows:
4 Low Impact Development (LID) techniques are allowed when integrating stormwater management
5 facilities.
6 Section 3. The Code of Ordinances Chapter 36, Section 36 -521 (c) (1), to add additional text and to
7 then read as follows:
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(1) Plantings, trees, groundcover and ornamental or structural embellishments as may be required by
the landscape ordinance. Low Impact Development (LID) facilities and techniques are permitted in the
landscape design.
Section 4. Severability. In the event any title, section, paragraph, item, sentence, clause, phrase, or
word of this ordinance is declared or adjudged to be invalid or unconstitutional, such declaration or
adjudication shall not affect the remaining portions of the ordinance which shall remain in full force and
effect as if the portion so declared or adjudged to be invalid or unconstitutional were not originally a part
of the ordinance.
Section 5. Repealer. All laws, ordinances, resolutions, or parts of the same that are inconsistent with
the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency.
PASSED:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Susan Langley, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM:
Thomas M. Carpenter, City Attorney
30 //
31 //
32 //
33 //
34 1/
[PAGE 2 OF 2]
ORDINANCE
Mark Stodola, Mayor
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:B FILE NO.:Z-7969-D
NAME:LaPalapa Revised Short-form PCD
LOCATION:Located at 18321 Cantrell Road
DEVELOPER:
Desiderio Juzrez
18220 Cantrell Road
Little Rock,AR 72223
SURVEYOR:
Global Surveying Consultants,Inc.
6511 Heilman Court
North Little Rock,AR 72118
AREA:3.5 acres NUMBER OF LOTS:FT.NEW STREET:0 LF
CURRENT ZONING:PCD
ALLOWED USES:Restaurant,Single-family and C-1 uses
PROPOSED ZONING:Revised PCD
ALLOWED USES:Restaurant,Single-family and C-1 uses
VARIANCE/WAIVERS:None requested.
BACKGROUND:
The Little Rock Board of Directors adopted Ordinance No.19,500 on March 21,2006,
allowing a revision to the approved PCD for 18321 Cantrell Road by expanding the PCD
to the south to encompass an area containing six manufactured homes.The proposal
included the construction of a deck and parking facility in the expanded area.The deck
was attached to the existing restaurant with only one entrance to the restaurant.The
deck was proposed as wooden construction,following the style of the existing
restaurant facility.
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:B Cont.FILE NO.:Z-7969-D
Fencing would be placed along the southern perimeter of the parking lot to screen the
adjoining residential property.Included in the request was the relocation of the six
manufactured homes on the rear portion of the site.
Ordinance No.19,613 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on October 17,
2006,allowed a revision to the previously approved PCD to allow an existing residential
structure located on the site which was zoned R-2,Single-family to be included in the
previously approved PCD area.The approval allowed C-1,Neighborhood Commercial
District uses as allowable uses for the site.There were no other changes proposed to
the previously approved PCD.
Ordinance No.20,319 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on September 21,
2010,allowed a revision to the PCD to allow the restaurant located at 6100 Stone Road
to add a drive-through window to the building.The drive through service was only
proposed from 6 am to 9 am Monday through Friday serving breakfast.Stacking was
proposed within the parking lot.The stacking would not impact parking for the adjacent
restaurant because the restaurant was not open during the early morning hours.
A.PROPOSAL/REQUEST/APPLICANT'S STATEMENT:
The applicant is now proposing to amend the previously approved PCD to allow
the use of a storage building located along Cantrell Road to be remodeled for a
retail use.The applicant has indicated the proposed use of the building will be a
use as allowed within the C-1,Neighborhood Commercial zoning district.The
use will utilize the parking located on the site shared by the two (2)restaurant
uses.
B.EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site contains a restaurant within a converted single-family structure.To the
west is a second restaurant located on an adjacent lot.To the south are several
manufactured homes located near the rear portion of this site owned by the
applicant.There is a daycare center located further west of the site on property
zoned PD-O.To the north and east of the site are several properties zoned PCD
which were zoned to recognize uses which existed when the property was
brought within the City's Extraterritorial Planning Jurisdiction.Other uses in the
area include,single-family homes located on large lots,a church and vacant 0-3,
General Office District zoned property.
C.NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing,staff has received a few informational phone calls from area
residents.All owners of property located within 200-feet of the site along with the
Aberdeen Court Property Owners Association were notified of the public hearing.
2
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:B Cont.FILE NO.:Z-7969-D
D.ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
No comment.
E.ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
~delhi Cd:P j I hj Ill I lpl I pp Ipl
to issuance of a building permit.For information on submittal requirements and
the review process,contact a commercial plans examiner:
Curtis Richey at 501.371.4724;t.;~t.;l-y.yI't3 It(r.rot.;k,p~g or
Mark Alderfer at 501.371.4875;nba derrerC~3 It/crock,org.
Plannin Division:This request is located in the Chenal Planning District.The
Land Use Plan shows Mixed Use (MX)for this property.The Mixed Use (MX)
category provides for a mixture of residential,office and commercial uses to
occur.A Planned Zoning District is required if the use is entirely office or
commercial or if the use is a mixture of the three.The applicant has applied for a
rezoning from PCD (Planned Commercial District)to PCD (Planned Commercial
District)for the addition of a retail use in a building on this site.The site is within
the Highway 10 Design Overlay District.
Master Street Plan:Cantrell Road is a Principal Arterial on the Master Street
Plan.A Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect major traffic
generators or activity centers within the urbanized area.Entrances and exits
should be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on
Cantrell Road since it is a Principal Arterial.This street may require dedication of
right-of-way and may require street improvements for entrances and exits to the
site.
~gi I Pl:Th I Cl IBlk P h h I BC II R d.ABlk
Path is to be a paved path physically separate for the use of bicycles.
Additional right-of-way or/and easement is recommended.Nine-foot paths are
recommended to allow for pedestrian use as well (replacing the sidewalk).
~Landaca e:No comment.
F.SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:(May 13,2015)
The applicant was not present.Staff presented an overview of the item.Staff
stated there were no outstanding technical issues associated with the request in
need of addressing via a revised site plan.There were no more issues for
discussion.The Committee then forwarded the item to the full Commission for
final action.
3
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:B Cont.FILE NO.:Z-7969-D
G.ANALYSIS:
There were no outstanding technical issues in need of addressing via a revised
site plan.The applicant is requesting to amend the existing Planned Commercial
Development (PCD)to allow the use of an existing building for a retail use.The
building is located along Cantrell Road and is currently being used for storage of
the restaurant supplies.The building contains approximately 350 square feet of
floor area.The applicant has indicated the proposed use of the building will be
a use as allowed within the C-1,Neighborhood Commercial zoning district.The
commercial user will utilize the parking located on the site shared by the
two (2)restaurant uses.
The applicant has not proposed any additional ground signage for the
commercial user.Building signage will be placed on the front of the building.
Signage will be limited to a maximum sign area equaling a maximum of
ten (10)percent of the facade area.
To allow a commercial business within the existing structure the building should
be brought into compliance to meet ADA.In addition,restrooms should be
provided within the building.Staff is not supportive of the request.Staff feels
any additional commercial activity on the site should be located elsewhere on the
site and not expand the commercial activities next to Cantrell Road.Staff does
not feel the use of this building for commercial activities is appropriate.
H.STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends denial of the request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JUNE 4,2015)
The applicant was present.There were registered objectors present.The Chair
informed the applicant that the Commission's policy was to offer a deferral of an item to
a later hearing date when eight (8)or fewer Commissioners were present to allow more
Commissioners to be present to hear a request.The Chair stated it took six (6)positive
votes to move an item forward with a favorable recommendation from the Commission.
She stated there were eight (8)Commissioners present.The Chair requested the
applicant come forward and state if they desired a deferral of an item or if they wanted
to move forward at this hearing date.
The applicant stated he desired to defer the item to the Commissions July 2,2015,
public hearing.There was no further discussion of the item.The Chair entertained a
motion for approval of deferring the item to the July 2,2015,public hearing.The motion
carried by a vote of 8 ayes,0 noes and 3 absent.
4
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:B Cont.FILE NO.:Z-7969-D
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JULY 2,2015)
Mr.Desiderio Juzrez was present representing the request.There were no registered
objectors present.Staff presented the item stating they were not in support of the
request.Staff stated they felt the commercial uses should not be placed within this
building which was located adjacent to Cantrell Road.Staff stated any new or
additional commercial activities should be located within the rear of the property and not
along the Cantrell Road frontage.
Mr.Juzrez stated he desired to use the building for commercial activities.He stated the
commercial activity would be limited due to the size of the building.He stated he would
make the improvements to the structure necessary to comply with ADA and building
codes.He stated he would like to use the building for a cell phone repair store but was
requesting C-1,Neighborhood Commercial uses as allowable uses for the building.He
stated there was ample parking on the site to accommodate the commercial use.
Mr.Juzrez stated the existing parking lot was very seldom more than one-half full.He
stated if parking became an issue there was more land to add additional parking.
There was a general discussion by the Commission as to the appropriateness of the
use.A motion was made to approve the request subject to compliance with staff's
comments and conditions except that of denial.The motion failed by a vote of 0 ayes,
10 noes and 1 absent.
5
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
NAME:Cell Phone Hospital Short-form PCD
LOCATION:Located at 6608 Baseline Road
DEVELOPER:
EZ Equiel Garcia
6608 Baseline Road,Suite E
Little Rock,AR 72209
ENGINEER:
Laha Engineers
6602 Baseline Road,Suite E
Little Rock,AR 72209
AREA:1.15acres NUMBER OF LOTS:1 FT.NEW STREET:0 LF
CURRENT ZONING:R-2,Single-family
ALLOWED USES:Single-family residential
PROPOSED ZONING:PCD
PROPOSED USE:Retail and Office
VARIANCE/WAIVERS:None requested.
BACKGROUND:
On April 23,2015,the Little Rock Planning Commission denied a request to rezone the
site from R-2,Single-family to PCD to allow the redevelopment of this site with a single
building and associated parking.The request included the construction of a new
10,087 square foot retail building proposed as a mix use development containing office
and commercial uses.A note on the site plan indicated a 1,000 square foot barber
shop,1,000 square foot nail salon,two (2)1,000 square foot office bays,2,000 square
foot "cell phone hospital",1,000 square foot computer repair shop and a 3,087 square
foot restaurant.The site plan proposed 39 parking spaces.
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C Cont.FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
A.PROPOSAL/REQUEST/APPLICANT'S STATEMENT:
The current request is to rezone the site from R-2,Single-family to PCD (Planed
Commercial Development)to allow the construction of a 7,587 square foot retail
building and 42 parking spaces.The site plan indicates the placement of an
insurance office,Tropical Smoothe (restaurant),cell phone hospital,tax service
office and barber shop.The office uses are indicated at 2,000 square feet and
the retail uses are indicating with 5,587 square feet.
B.EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The structures on the site have been removed.There are offices located to both
the east and west of the site and single-family homes to the north.To the south
of the site is a US Post Office,a County Health Unit and office uses.Commercial
uses are primarily located at the Geyer Springs and Baseline Road intersection
and the Chicot and Baseline Road intersection.
C.NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing,staff has received a few informational phone calls from area
residents.All owners of property located within 200-feet of the site along with the
Cloverdale Neighborhood Association,the Chicot Neighborhood Association,the
Windamere Neighborhood Association and Southwest Little Rock United for
Progress were notified of the public hearing.
D.ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1.Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the
public right-of-way prior to
2.Obtain permits for improvements within State Highway right-of-way from
AHTD,District Vl.
3.A grading permit in accordance with Section 29-186 (c)and (d)will be
required prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site.Other than
residential subdivisions,site grading and drainage plans must be submitted
and approved prior to the start of construction.
4.Stormwater detention ordinance applies to this property.Show the proposed
location for stormwater detention facilities on the plan.
5.If disturbed area is one (1)or more acres,obtain a NPDES stormwater permit
from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
2
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C Cont.FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
E.UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater:Sewer available to this project.Environmental Assessment
Division (EAD)Review required.Contact Little Rock Wastewater EAD for
details.
EntercnEr:There is a three phase power line running along the north side of
Baseline Road at this location.Care must be exercised for the installation of the
proposed trees and sign along the road so that OSHA required clearances are
maintained.Entergy will trim trees when they get within 10 to 15 feet of an
overhead power line to prevent outages caused by trees.Contact Entergy in
advance regarding future service requirements and additional facilities
location(s).
Center oint Ener:No comment received.
AT 8 T:No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water:
1.All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for
water service must be met.
2.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.
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 the Little Rock
Fire Department is required.
4.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.
5.If there are facilities that need to be adjusted and/or relocated,contact
Central Arkansas Water.That work would be done at the expense of the
developer.
6.Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered
water service is required.
3
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C Cont.FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
7.Due to the nature of this facility,installation of an approved reduced
pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZA)is required on the
domestic water service.This assembly must be installed prior to the first
point of use.Central Arkansas Water 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
Central Arkansas Water.The test results must be sent to Central Arkansas
Water's Cross Connection Section within ten days of installation and
annually thereafter.Contact the Cross Connection Section at 501.377.1226
if you would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this
project.
8.The facilities on-site will be private.When meters are planned off private
lines,private facilities shall be installed to Central Arkansas Water'
materials and construction specifications and installation will be inspected
by an engineer,licensed to practice in the State of Arkansas.Execution of
a Customer Owned Line Agreement is required.
9.Fire sprinkler systems which do not contain additives such as antifreeze
shall be isolated with a double detector check valve assembly.If additives
area used,a reduced pressure zone back flow preventer shall be required.
10.This development will have minor impact on the existing water distribution
system.Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate
pressure and fire protection.
~yi d:dd i i d
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per Appendix D of the 2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Vol.1 Section
D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant.Where a fire hydrant is located on a
fire apparatus access road,the minimum road width shall be 26 feet,exclusive of
shoulders.
Loadintt.Maintain fire apparatus access road design as per Appendix D of the
2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Vol.1 Section D102.1 Access and
loading.Facilities,buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall
be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus
access road with an asphalt,concrete or other approved driving surface capable
of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at least 75,000
pounds.
Gates.Maintain fire apparatus access road gates as per Appendix D of the
2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Vol.1 Section D103d5 Fire apparatus
access road gates.Gates securing the fire apparatus access roads shall
comply with all of the following criteria:
4
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C Cont.FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
1.Minimum gate width shall be 20 feet.
2.Gates shall be of swinging or sliding type.
3.Construction of gates shall be of material that allow manual operation by
one person.
4.Gate components shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times
and replaces or repaired when defective.
5.Electric gates shall be equipped with a means of opening the gate by fire
department personnel for emergency access.Emergency opening devices
shall be approved by the fire code official.
6.Manual opening gates shall not be locked with a padlock or chain and
padlock unless they are capable of being opened by means of forcible
entry tools or when a key box containing the keys to the lock is installed at
the gate location.
7.Locking device specifications shall be submitted for approval by the fire
code official
8.Electric gate operators,where provided,shall be listed in accordance with
UL 325.
9.Gates,intended for automatic operation shall be designed,constructed
and installed to comply with requirements of ASTM F 2200.
~NHB .2 Pl Hfd p dpp BI*C f H 222
Arkansas Fire Prevention Code.Section C101 —C105,in conjunction with
Central Arkansas Water (Jason Lowder 501.377.1245)and the Little Rock Fire
Marshal's Office (Capt.Tony Rhodes 501.918.3757).Number and Distribution of
Fire Hydrants as per Table C105.1.
Parks and Recreation:No comment received.
~CPI I:N
CATA:The site is located on CATA Bus Route ¹17,Mabelvale and 17A,
Mabelvale-Downtown.
F.ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
~Bildi Cd:P j I Pj fll I lpl I pp Ipl
to issuance of a building permit.For information on submittal requirements and
the review process,contact a commercial plans examiner:
Curtis Richey at 501.371.4724;I.;~I.;l-y.yII9 t t r.roI.;k,prq or
Mark Alderfer at 501.371.4875;
ianna
derrerI'~3 t t crock,otg.
5
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C Cont.FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
Plannin Division:This request is located in the Geyer Springs West Planning
District.The Land Use Plan shows Office (0)for this property.The office
category represents services provided directly to consumers (e.g.,legal,
financial,medical)as well as general offices which support more basic economic
activities.The applicant has applied for a rezoning from R-2 (Single Family
District)to PCD (Planned Commercial District)to allow commercial/office mixed
center on the site.
Master Street Plan:Baseline Road is a Principal Arterial on the Master Street
Plan.A Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect major traffic
generators or activity centers within the urbanized area.Entrances and exits
should be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on
Baseline Road since it is a Principal Arterial.This street may require dedication
of right-of-way and may require street improvements for entrances and exits to
the site.
~gi I Pl:Agl IIBlk k I k I BB II R d.Blk k
provide a portion of the pavement for the sole use of bicycles.
~Landsca e:
1.Site plan must comply with the City's landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2.A land use buffer six (6)percent of the average width /depth of the lot will be
required when an adjacent property has a dissimilar use of a more restrictive
nature.The property to the north and a portion of the properties to the east
and west is zoned R-2,Single-family.The minimum dimension shall be nine
(9)feet.Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this requirement.The
plantings,existing and purposed,shall be provided within the landscape
ordinance of the City,Section 15-81.
3.Note on plan the existing trees that are to be used to satisfy buffer /perimeter
requirements.Trees selected for preservation shall have the area within the
drip-line fenced with protective fencing and protected from development
activities.Graphically indicate the area to be protected on the plan and
provide detail of the protective fencing.
4.A minimum of seventeen (17)shrubs will need to be placed in the north buffer
area.A minimum of thirty-one (31)shrubs will need to be added to the west
buffer area.
5.An irrigation system shall be required for developments of one (1)acre or
larger.For developments of less than one (1)acre a there shall be a water
source within seventy-five (75)feet of the plants to be irrigated.
6
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C Cont.FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
6.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 preserving trees of six (6)inch caliper or
larger.
G.SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:(May 13,2015)
Mr.Troy Laha of Laha Engineering along with the applicant were present
representing the request.Staff presented an overview of the item stating there
were additional items necessary to complete the review process.Staff requested
details concerning the proposed signage plan.Staff also questioned if the days
and hours of dumpster service would be limited to daylight hours.
Public Works comments were addressed.Staff stated the City's stormwater
detention ordinance would apply to the development of the property.Staff stated
a grading permit was required prior to construction.Staff stated a permit from
AHTD was required for all improvements located in the right of way.
Landscaping comments were addressed.Staff stated screening and buffering
was required along the perimeters where there was a use or zoning less
restrictive than the proposed PCD zoning.Staff stated existing trees to be
retained could count as credit toward fulfilling landscape ordinance requirements.
Staff noted the comments from the various other agencies.There were no more
issues for discussion.The Committee then forwarded the item to the full
Commission for final action.
H.ANALYSIS:
The applicant submitted a revised site plan to staff addressing comments raised
at the May 13,2015,Subdivision Committee meeting.The applicant has
provided the proposed signage plan and indicated the dumpster service hours
would be limited to 6 am to 6 pm seven (7)days per week.The hours of
operation for the businesses are from 6 am to 10 pm seven (7)days per week.
The request is to rezone the site from R-2,Single-family to PCD (Planned
Commercial Development)to allow the construction of a 7,587 square foot
building and 42 parking spaces.The proposal includes the placement of an
insurance office,Tropical Smoothe (restaurant),cell phone hospital,tax service
office and barber shop.The office uses are indicated at 2,000 square feet and
the retail uses are indicating with 5,587 square feet.
7
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C Cont.FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
Parking for the development is proposed with 42 parking spaces.Parking for the
development based on shopping center guidelines would require 33 parking
spaces or one (1)space per 225 gross square feet of floor area.Parking for the
use mix break down would require five (5)parking spaces for the barber shop,
five (5)parking spaces for the office use,30 parking spaces for the restaurant
and five (5)parking spaces for the general retail for a total of 45 parking spaces.
The site plan indicates the placement of a single ground sign along Baseline
Road.The sign is proposed to comply with signage allowed in commercial zones
or a maximum of thirty-six (36)feet in height and one hundred sixty (160)square
feet in area.Building signage is proposed on the east facade of the building
to comply with signage allowed in commercial zones or a maximum of
ten (10)percent of the facade area.The applicant has indicated a sign will be
placed on the end cap of the building along the Baseline Road frontage.This
sign area also will not exceed ten (10)percent of the facade area of the Baseline
Road frontage.
The maximum building height proposed is 30-feet.The building materials
are proposed as brick and siding.The building coverage is proposed at
twenty (20)percent and the paved area at thirty-five (35)percent.The
landscaped area is seven (7)percent of the site.Thirty-eight (38)percent of the
site is proposed as buffers and drainage.
Staff is not supportive of the applicant's request.Although the applicant has
reduced the size of the development and reduced the amount of retail proposed
staff feels the use mix proposed along with the restaurant use defines the
development a commercial development.That is further reinforced by the
applicant's proposal to utilize commercial signage.The site is indicated for Office
on the City's Future Land Use Plan and this area is proposed as an office
corridor.This area of Baseline Road is primarily office and institutional uses.
The commercial activities have been limited to the area around the Geyer
Springs and Baseline Roads intersection and the Chicot and Baseline Roads
intersection.Staff does not feel this is an appropriate location for a commercial
development.The primary zoning in this area is 0-3,General Office District.
Staff feels office development would be a more appropriate use for this site.
I.STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends denial of the request.
8
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C Cont.FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JUNE 4,2015)
The applicant was present.There were registered objectors present.The Chair
informed the applicant that the Commission's policy was to offer a deferral of an item to
a later hearing date when eight (8)or fewer Commissioners were present to allow more
Commissioners to be present to hear a request.The Chair stated it took six (6)positive
votes to move an item forward with a favorable recommendation from the Commission.
She stated there were eight (8)Commissioners present.The Chair requested the
applicant come forward and state if they desired a deferral of an item or if they wanted
to move forward at this hearing date.
The applicant stated he desired to defer the item to the Commissions July 2,2015,
public hearing.There was no further discussion of the item.The Chair entertained a
motion for approval of deferring the item to the July 2,2015,public hearing.The motion
carried by a vote of 8 ayes,0 noes and 3 absent.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JULY 2,2015)
The applicant was present.There was one registered objector present.The Chair
called the applicant forward to present their case.Mr.Troy Laha,the project engineer,
addressed the Commission on behalf of the request.He stated the applicant had
reduced the square footage of the building,increased the number of parking spaces
and had multiple options concerning the dumpster placement and service.He stated
the driveway entering the site was constructed to meet the minimum driveway spacing
criteria of the ordinance.Mr.Laha stated the drive had been reviewed by staff and was
acceptable.
The applicant stated his desire was to develop a small retail center for the area
residents.He stated the barber shop and cell phone hospital along with the Tropical
Smoothie cafe were committed tenants.He stated the office portion of the center would
be secured once the City approved the request.He stated the site plan as presented
met with the minimum requirements of the City's ordinance.He stated he had tried to
comply with staff's concerns related to the layout and the number of parking spaces.
Mr.Laha stated he was also representing Southwest Little Rock United for Progress.
He stated the neighborhood association had met and was in full support of the request.
Ms.Ruth Bell,League of Women Voters,addressed the Commission in opposition of
the request.She stated the site was located in an office corridor.She stated the
commercial activities were limited to major intersections of Geyer Springs and Baseline
Roads and Chicot and Baseline Roads.She stated the development was proposed as
a fairly intense commercial development.She requested the Commission reject the
application for the proposed commercial center.
9
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:C Cont.FILE NO.:Z-9023-A
Commissioner Bubbus questioned the uses within the general area.Mr.Laha stated
there were a number of commercial uses located along Baseline Road between Chicot
and Geyer Springs Roads.Mr.Laha named a number of restaurant uses within this
area.He stated there was an office development to the east and a bank was also
located east of this site.
There was a general discussion by the Commission concerning the location and the use
of the property.Staff stated this area had seen a great deal of redevelopment and the
primary redevelopment use was not retail.Staff stated the retail uses had been limited
to the commercial intersections of Geyer Springs and Chicot Roads.Staff stated the
future land use plan indicated this site for office.Staff stated there were a number of
new users in the area including the new county health unit,the post office and housing
for special needs residents.
Commissioner Berry stated he did not feel this area was appropriate for this use.He
questioned the distance between Baseline and Chicot Roads.Mr.Laha stated the
roads were one (1)mile apart.He stated this development was approximately '/4 mile
for Geyer Springs.Mr.Laha stated this development would not cause any increase in
the amount of traffic on Baseline Road.He stated there was a center turn lane adjacent
to the property.Mr.Laha stated there was not a market for office in this area.He
stated the neighborhood developed the land use plan for this area 20 years ago as a
part of a neighborhood planning process.He stated the needs of the area had changed
since the land use plan was updated.
A motion was made to approve the request subject to compliance with the comments
and conditions as outlined by staff except that of the denial recommendation.The
motion failed by a vote of 1 ayes,9 noes and 1 absent.
10
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:FILE NO.:LA-0064
NAME:Mabelvale Pike Timber Harvest Variance Request
LOCATION:North of 10312 Baseline Rd (Pick 8 Pull Auto Salvage)
APPLICANT:Paul Valentin
APPLICANT'S REPRESENTATIVE:Mike D.Wilkins
AREA:Approximately 28 acres
CURRENT ZONING:R2
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED:A variance from the Land Alteration
Regulations to harvest timber on approximately 28 acres.
A.PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Applicant is requesting a variance from the Land Alteration Regulations to
harvest timber on approximately 28 acres located north of the property at
10312 Baseline Road (Pick 8 Pull Auto Salvage).The variance would allow staff
to issue a grading permit for the timber harvesting activities without imminent
construction.
B.EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The 28 acre property is dense tree covered.The property drains in all directions.
The property is not visible from Baseline Road and Mabelvale Pike Road.East
of the subject property is undeveloped tree covered property zoned R2.South of
the subject property is the Pick 8 Pull Auto Salvage property zoned PCD and an
undeveloped property zoned R2 used for equipment and material storage.
Additional property is located on the south used by a contractor for equipment
and material storage and the Little Rock Boat and RV Storage facility.North and
west of the subject property is undeveloped property zoned R2.Most of the
property to the north and east is located within the 100 year floodplain.Access
to the subject property will occur from Mabelvale Pike Road.
C.NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
Staff has been provided proof of notifications being mailed by the applicant to all
adjacent property owners including those across streets and alleys.As of the
time of writing,staff has not received any telephone calls or emails with
questions or desiring additional information.
July 2,2015
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.:1 Cont.FILE NO.:LA-0064
D.ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
1.Harvest activities must comply with state and federal forestry harvest
techniques and code.
2.Tree tops and debris generated from the harvest activity must be removed
at the conclusion of harvest to reduce the potential fire hazard.Contact the
Little Rock Fire Department for conditions and additional requirements.
3.Vegetation must be established on disturbed area within 21 days of
completion of harvest activities.
4.A grading permit in accordance with section 29-186 (c)8 (d)will be required
prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site.
5.The harvest activities shall be expediently completed in a time frame not to
exceed one (1)year in duration from the time work commences to
installation of all final erosion control measures and vegetation.
6.A permanent vegetative cover of suitable perennial grass shall be
established over the major disturbed areas.
7.All erosion and stabilization controls,including permanent vegetation are to
be maintained by the responsible party for a period of 2 years following
completion of site work.
8.Maintenance for the 2 year period shall be guaranteed through posting of
cash,surety bond or letter of credit as referenced in Sec.31-431(2)at the
time of final inspection of the harvest and grading activities.
9.All required federal,state,and local permits and approvals shall be obtained
prior to commencement of land alteration activities.
10.Public works staff must be contacted for inspection for final approval of site
stabilization prior to acceptance and relinquishment of maintenance bond.
11.Erosion controls must be installed to reduce discharge of polluted
stormwater.
12.Per Sec.29-187(e)(2),a forestry management plan was prepared stating a
selective harvest will be conducted.The plan should include the
following:total ¹of trees per species to be harvested and ¹of trees per
species per acre to be harvested.
13.Per Sec.29-179(5),undisturbed areas designated for temporary buffers
shall be kept undisturbed except for reasonable access to the site.The
width of the temporary buffer strip shall be 6%of the lot width and depth.
The minimum width shall be 25 ft.and the maximum required width shall not
exceed 40 ft.In no event shall these temporary strips be less than the width
of the permanent buffers required for the development.Label and delineate
undisturbed buffer areas on the harvest plan.
2
July 2,2015
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.:1 Cont.FILE NO.:LA-0064
E.PLANNING STAFF COMMENTS:
No Comments.
F.SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE:
The applicant's representative was present.Staff presented an overview of the
variance application.Staff requested additional information be provided on the ¹
of tree to be harvested and notified the applicant of the undisturbed buffer
requirements.There was no further discussion of the item.The Committee then
forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
G.ANALYSIS:
The applicant is proposing to harvest timber on approximately 28 acres.The
timber harvest plan identifies a mixture of pine and hardwood trees ranging from
pulpwood to large saw timber size.The principal species are loblolly pine,willow
and water oak and sweet gum.The plan states the stand will benefit from a
selective harvest to market the mature trees,diseased and defective trees.
The timber harvest plan identifies approximately 175 pine trees per acre and
approximately 70 hardwood trees per acre for an approximate total of 4900 pine
trees and 1960 hardwood trees.The applicant proposes to remove
approximately 50%of the trees from the property.
The timber harvest plan shows 40 ft.undisturbed buffers along the east and west
property lines and 25 ft.buffers along the north and south property lines.
Access to the property is proposed to be taken from Mabelvale Road just north of
the AHTD facilities.The applicant has agreed to remove all tree tops and debris
generated from the project to be removed by either burning or hauling off.The
applicant has also agreed to obtain a grading permit prior to beginning work and
post a maintenance bond at the completion.The applicant has agreed that the
project will be completed in less than 1 year.
H.RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the timber harvest variance request subject to the
following comments and conditions:
1.The undisturbed buffers should be marked on site with paint and/flagging;
2.A grading permit should be obtained prior to the start of harvest;
3.Mud and debris tracked on Mabelvale Pike should be removed immediately.
3
July 2,2015
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.:1 Cont.FILE NO.:LA-0064
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JULY 2,2015)
The applicant was present.There were no objectors present.Staff presented the item
and a recommendation of approval as outlined in the "staff recommendation"above.
There was no further discussion.The item was placed on the consent agenda and
approved,including all staff comments and conditions.The vote was 10 ayes,0 noes
and 1 absent.
4
NORTHWEST CORNER
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SECTION 34. -f^
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FOUND 1/2' PIPE 1/2' REBAR l
SOUTH 88'53'38" EAST 1328.65' (DEEDED AND MEASURED) SET SET
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329.10' (MEASURED) FOUND 1/2' REBAR
WITH CAP
NORTH 8932'40" WEST 1324.74' (DEEDED)
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:2 FILE NO.:Z-1465-E
NAME:NuLife Christian Fellowship Church—
Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION:4601 S.University Avenue
OWNER/APPLICANT:Rick Middleton/Windsor Williams,NuLife Church
PROPOSAL:A conditional use permit is requested to allow a
church to occupy up to 6,000 sq.ft.of the existing
building on this C-4 zoned property.
1.SITE LOCATION:
The site was developed and previously occupied by an automobile
dealership.The property is located on the east side of S.University
Avenue,a little less than '/~mile south of Asher Avenue.
2.COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The property is located along the University Avenue Commercial corridor.
Shopping centers are located to the north at the major intersection.An
automobile dealership and other commercial uses are located across
University to the west.Areas of floodway bound the property on the north,
south and east.Since this large building was vacated by the dealership,it
has been used for a mixture of smaller uses.Allowing the church to
occupy a portion of the building appears to be compatible with uses in the
area and a reasonable reuse of a portion of the building.
Notice of the public hearing was sent to all owners of properties within
200 feet of the site and the SWLR United for Progress Neighborhood
Association.
3.ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
Access to the property is via a single driveway off of S.University Avenue.
The northern portion of the site is occupied by a single use;a used vehicle
sales business.The southern portion is occupied by two buildings
containing a total of 39,500 square feet of area.The entirety of the
smaller building and a portion of the larger building contain automobile
service uses.The church is to occupy 6,000 sq.ft.of the larger building.
The maximum stated seating capacity of the church's main worship area
is 195 persons;requiring 48 parking spaces.There are 119 parking
spaces on the site which is sufficient to accommodate the uses.
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:2 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-1465-E
4.SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
Site plan must comply with the City's landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
If building rehabilitation exceeds fifty percent (50%)of the replacement
cost then the landscaping and buffer must also come into compliancy
accordingly.
5.PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1.Show the floodplain and/or floodway delineations on the survey.
2.It appears a substantial area of the site lies within the regulated
floodway and/or floodplain of Fourche Creek and Rock Creek.No
future construction of any structures,improvements to the interior of
the structures over 50%of the market value of the structure,parking
areas,or placement of fill materials are allowed in the floodway.
Additions or improvements to the interior of structures in the floodplain
of 50%or more of the market value of a structure must comply with the
CLR floodplain regulations.
6.UTILITY FIRE DEPT.AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater:Sewer available to this project.
Entergy:Entergy does not object to the conditional use permit whereby
the applicant is requesting to use 6,000 +-square feet of the existing
building.The building is already supplied with electric service.The
customer should contact Entergy in advance if changes in the electrical
service requirements to the building are required.
Centerpoint Energy:No comment received.
AT8T:No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water:
All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request
for water service must be met.
2
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:2 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-1465-E
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.
If there are facilities that need to be adjusted and/or relocated,contact
Central Arkansas Water.That work would be done at the expense of the
developer.
Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding the size and location of the
water meter.
The facilities on-site will be private.When meters are planned off private
lines,private facilities shall be installed to Central Arkansas Water'
material and construction specifications and installation will be inspected
by an engineer,licensed to practice in the State of Arkansas.Execution of
Customer Owned Line Agreement is required.
Fire sprinkler systems which do not contain additives such as antifreeze
shall be isolated with a double detector check valve assembly.If additives
are used,a reduced pressure zone backflow preventer shall be required.
This development will have minor impact on the existing water distribution
system.Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate
pressure and fire protection.
Fire Department:Maintain fire apparatus access roads at fire hydrant
locations as per Appendix D of the 2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code
Vol.1 Section D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant.Where a fire
hydrant is located on a fire apparatus access road,the minimum road
width shall be 26 feet,exclusive of shoulders.
Building Codes:Project is a change in occupancy and is therefore subject
to current building code requirements.Review and approval is required by
Building Codes Division before occupancy takes place.For information on
submittal requirements and the review process,contact a commercial
plans examiner:
3
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:2 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-1465-E
C»R h y 50.3 .;~II»l k.
Mark Alderfer at 501.371.4875;malderfer littlerock.or .
County Planning:No comments.
CATA:The site is located on a CATA bus route.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:(JUNE 10,2015)
The applicant,Windsor Williams,was present.Staff presented the item and
noted some additional information was needed.Staff requested a signage plan
and asked if there would be any outdoor activities.Staff noted that the
application stated the church currently had 50 members.Staff asked what the
maximum seating capacity of the main worship area would be.Staff noted that
the CUP was for only this 6,000 square foot area and any future expansion would
have to be brought back to the Commission.
Public Works Comments were discussed.Staff requested that floodplain and/or
floodway delineations be indicated on the survey.Staff noted the restrictions on
construction and remodeling on properties in the floodplain/floodway.
Other Agency Comments were noted.
The applicant was advised to provide responses by June 17,2015.The
Committee determined there were no other issues and forwarded the item to the
full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The C-4 zoned,8.5+acre tract located at 4601 S.University Avenue was
previously occupied by various automobile and truck sales and service
businesses.Since the last of the new car sales businesses left the site several
years ago,it has been occupied by a mixed variety of uses;including used
vehicle sales and service companies.A relatively recent effort was made to
reuse the site and buildings for a mixed use retail development.That proposal
did not succeed.A used vehicle sales business is located on the northern
portion of the site.The southern portion of the site contains two buildings;
32,285 square feet and 7,280 square feet.The smaller building is occupied by a
couple of automobile service type businesses.The southern portion of the larger
building is also occupied by a similar use.
The applicant is requesting approval of a conditional use permit to allow a church
to occupy up to 6,000 square feet in the northern portion of the larger building.
4
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:2 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-1465-E
NuLife Fellowship Christian Church will be conducting Sunday worship services,
Monday Leadership meeting and Wednesday Bible Study.There will be other
events from time-to-time as are typical for a church.NuLife currently has 50
members.The maximum seating capacity in the proposed new worship area is
195 persons.No outside activities are planned.Signage will consist of wall
signage on the building facade facing S.University and a possible ground sign.
Signage will comply with that allowed in commercial districts.Only cosmetic type
work to the building is proposed to accommodate the new use.
To staff's knowledge,there are no outstanding issues.The proposal to allow use
of a portion of this existing building for a small church appears to be a reasonable
request.There is no bill of assurance for this acreage tract.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested CUP,subject to compliance with
the comments and conditions outlined in Sections 4,5 and 6 of the agenda staff
report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JULY 2,2015)
The applicant was not present.There were no objectors present.Staff informed
the commission that the applicant had failed to send the required notices and the
itemneeded to be deferred.There was no further discussion.The item was
placed on the consent agenda and deferred to the August 13,2015 meeting by a
vote of 10 ayes,0 noes and 1 absent.
5
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:3 FILE NO.:Z-4285-C
NAME:Catholic High School Athletic Fieldhouse-
Revised Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION:6300 Father Tribou Drive
OWNER/APPLICANT:Diocese of Little Rock/Wittenberg,Delony and
Davidson
PROPOSAL:A revision to the approved conditional use permit is
requested to allow for construction of a new athletic
fieldhouse larger than what was previously approved.
1.SITE LOCATION:
The site is located on the north side of Father Tribou Drive,west of N.
University.The fieldhouse building will be located at the northwest corner
of the athletic field (same location as previously approved).
2.COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The fieldhouse building was approved as a part of the April 26,2012 CUP
approval which included the new athletic field and associated facilities.
Through that process,the school worked with the neighbors to the north to
mitigate any impact by preserving and entrancing the buffer on the north
side of the campus.This proposed building is to be placed in exactly the
spot previously .approved.It is proposed to be increased in size from
21,000 sq.ft.to 30,000 sq.ft.All previously imposed and agreed-upon
conditions remain in place.Allowing the increase in size should not affect
the building's compatibility with the neighborhood.
Notice of the public hearing was sent to all owners of properties located
within 200 feet of the site and the Evergreen and Hillcrest Neighborhood
Associations.The school is scheduled to hold an open house prior to the
Commission meeting for interested parties to view the proposed
development.
3.ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
The parking requirement for a high school is determined by the number of
classrooms and the number of employees.None of those elements are
changing.The campus currently contains 397 parking spaces in lots
taking access off of Father Tribou Drive.A small parking lot containing
7 parking spaces is to be built adjacent to the new athletic fieldhouse.
Access to that lot will be through the existing parking lot.
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:3 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4285-C
4.SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
Site plan must comply with the City's landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
Previous landscape comments apply (Z-4285-B).
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 preserving trees of six (6)inch caliper or
larger.
5.PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1.At time of construction,University Ave.is classified on the Master
Street Plan as a principal arterial.Dedication of right-of-way to
55 feet from centerline will be required.Confirm right-of-way has
been dedicated with construction of football field.
2.At time of construction,due to the proposed use of the property,the
Master Street Plan specifies that Father Tribou Street for the
frontage of this property must meet commercial street standards.
Dedicate right-of-way to 30 feet from centerline.Confirm that right-
of-way has been dedicated with construction of the football field.
3.At time of construction,a 20 feet radial dedication of right-of-way is
required at the intersection of University Ave.and Father Tribou St.
Confirm the right-of-way has been dedicated with the construction
of the football field.
4.Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged
in the public right-of-way prior to occupancy.
5.Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property.Show the
proposed location for stormwater detention facilities on the plan.
6.A grading permit in accordance with section 29-186 (c)8 (d)will be
required prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site.
Other than residential subdivisions,site grading and drainage plans
must be submitted and approved prior to the start of construction.
Is a variance requested to begin grading and earthwork without
construction being imminent.
7.Retaining walls designed to exceed 15 ft.in height are required to
seek a variance for construction.Provide proposed wall elevations.
This applies if the retaining wall is not a part of the proposed
foundation wall of the facility.
2
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:3 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4285-C
8.Prior to construction of retaining walls,an engineer's certification of
design and plans must be submitted to Public Works for approval.
After construction,an as-built certification is required for
construction of the retaining wall.This applies if the retaining
wall is not a part of the proposed foundation wall of the facility.
6.UTILITY FIRE DEPT.AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater:Sewer available to project.Sewer Main Relocation required
to construct project as shown.
Entergy:Entergy does not object to this proposal.The existing building is
currently served via an underground line and a padmount transformer—
neither of which should be impacted by the footprint of the larger building
or parking lot.If the location of the electrical facilities do pose an issue as
the project develops,please contact Entergy so adjustments can be
discussed and changes made as agreed upon.The customer should
contact Entergy in advance if changes in the electrical service are required
to meet the electrical needs of the new building.
Centerpoint Energy:No comments received.
AT8T:No comments received.
Central Arkansas Water:
All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request
for water service must be met.
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.
If there are facilities that need to be adjusted and/or relocated,contact
Central Arkansas Water.That work would be done at the expense of the
developer.
Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding the size and location of the
water meter.
3
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:3 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4285-C
The facilities on-site will be private.When meters are planned off private
lines,private facilities shall be installed to Central Arkansas Water'
material and construction specifications and installation will be inspected
by an engineer,licensed to practice in the State of Arkansas.Execution of
Customer Owned Line Agreement is required.
Fire sprinkler systems which do not contain additives such as antifreeze
shall be isolated with a double detector check valve assembly.If additives
are used,a reduced pressure zone backflow preventer shall be required.
This development will have minor impact on the existing water distribution
system.Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate
pressure and fire protection.
Fire Department:
~Fi Hd
Maintain fire apparatus access roads at fire hydrant locations as per
Appendix D of the 2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Vol.1 Section
D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant.Where a fire hydrant is
located on a fire apparatus access road,the minimum road width shall be
26 feet,exclusive of shoulders.
Grade
Maintain fire apparatus access roads as per Appendix D of the 2012
Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Vol.1 Section D103.2 Grade.Fire
apparatus access roads shall not exceed 10 percent in grade except as
approved by the fire chief.
~Loadin
Maintain fire apparatus access road design as per Appendix D of the 2012
Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Vol.1 Section D102.1 Access and
loading.Facilities,buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed
shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved
fire apparatus access road with an asphalt,concrete or other approved
driving surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus
weighing at least 75,000 pounds.
4
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:3 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4285-C
Dead Ends.
Maintain fire apparatus access roads at dead end locations as per
Appendix D of the 2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Vol.1
Section D103.4 Dead Ends.Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in
excess of 150 feet shall be provided with width and turnaround provisions
in accordance with Table D103.4.Requirements for Dead-end fire
apparatus access roads.
Gates
Maintain fire apparatus access road gates as per Appendix D of the
2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Vol.1 Section D103.5 Fire
apparatus access road gates.Gates securing the fire apparatus
access roads shall comply with all of the following criteria:
1.Minimum gate width shall be 20 feet.
2.Gates shall be of swinging or sliding type.
3.Construction of gates shall be of material that allow manual operation
by one person.
4.Gate components shall be maintained in an operable condition at all
times and replaces or repaired when defective.
5.Electric gates shall be equipped with a means of opening the gate by
fire department personnel for emergency access.Emergency opening
devices shall be approved by the fire code official.
6.Manual opening gates shall not be locked with a padlock or chain and
padlock unless they are capable of being opened by means of forcible
entry tools or when a key box containing the keys to the lock is
installed at the gate location.
7.Locking device specifications shall be submitted for approval gaby the
fire code official
8.Electric gate operators,where provided,shall be listed in accordance
with UL 325.
9.Gates,intended for automatic operation shall be designed,constructed
and installed to comply with requirements of ASTM F 2200.
~Fi Hd
Locate Fire Hydrants as per Appendix C of the 2012 Arkansas Fire
Prevention Code.Section C101 —C105,in conjunction with Central
Arkansas Water (Jason Lowder 501-377-1245)and the
5
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:3 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4285-C
Little Rock Fire Marshal's Office (Capt.Tony Rhodes 501-918-3757).
Number and Distribution of Fire Hydrants as per Table C105.1.
Building Codes:Project is subject to full commercial plan review and
approval prior to issuance of a building permit.For information on
submittal requirements and the review process,contact a commercial
plans examiner:
C»R h y 50.3 .;~II»l k.
Mark Alderfer at 501.371.4875;malderfer littlerock.or
County Planning:No comments
CATA:The site is located on a CATA bus route.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:(JUNE 10,2015)
Wallie Sprick and Dan Beranek were present representing the application.Staff
presented the item and noted the proposed change in building size.It was noted
that there were no other changes from the April 2012 CUP approval.
Public Works Comments were discussed.The applicants were asked to provide
proof that the previously required right-of-way dedications for the abutting streets
had been accomplished.In response to questions,the applicants stated an
advance grading request would be made to allow for preparation of the site and
construction of the retaining wall.They stated the retaining wall would form one
wall of the proposed building.
Other agency comments were noted.
The applicants stated a meet-and-greet would be set up at the school for the
neighbors to view the plans prior to the commission meeting.
The Committee determined there were no other issues and forwarded the item to
the full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
On April 26,2012,a conditional use permit was approved to allow Catholic High
School to construct a new athletic field on the east side of the campus;replacing
an existing,informal athletic play area.The approval included a synthetic turf
football field,also sized for soccer,with an eight lane running track around the
perimeter of the field.Also included were new lighting and bleacher style seating
6
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:3 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4285-C
for 500 fans with future expansion for an additional 1,000 fans.The CUP
approval included a new,two-story,21,000 square foot athletic fieldhouse
building to be constructed at the northwest corner of the athletic field.The new
fieldhouse was to also include public restrooms and a concession facility.The
new field is to be used for football and soccer practices,freshman football games
and junior varsity games.Varsity football games are to remain at War Memorial
Stadium for the foreseeable future.The athletic facility will primarily be used
after school hours,evenings and some weekends during soccer and football
seasons.Throughout the review of the 2012 application,the neighbors to the
north and the school worked together to arrive at a plan that preserved and
enhanced the screening buffer along the north perimeter of this portion of the
school campus.
The athletic field,running track,lighting and initial bleacher seating have been
installed and are in use.
Catholic High is requesting a revision to the approved CUP to increase the
previously approved square footage for the fieldhouse from 21,000 square feet to
30,000 square feet.The new building is still a two-story structure with an eave
height of 31 feet.The building is to be located in the previously approved spot
and no other changes to the approved site plan are proposed.
The building's lower level will contain a weight room,multi-use turf area,locker
rooms,toilets,showers and support areas along with a concession stand.The
upper level will be accessed from the existing upper level parking lot and will
contain a wrestling room,coach's offices,restrooms and three team
meeting/classrooms.The exterior of the building will be a combination of metal
panels,E.I.F.S.and brick that matches the main school building.
The addition of the building will not increase the school's enrollment.The school
will not be adding any teaching or support staff to occupy the building.The new
facility will offer flexibility in scheduling classes and allow the school to better
meet the needs of its athletes.
The existing ADA parking spaces adjacent to the new building will remain.The
access road will be paved as previously approved and will continue to be
restricted to service vehicles and ADA parking during events on the athletic field.
An advance grading permit is requested to allow for site preparation and
construction of the retaining wall that will be the future west wall of the new
building.
7
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:3 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4285-C
To staff's knowledge,there are no outstanding issues.All previously approved
conditions remain in place.There is no bill of assurance for this acreage tract.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested revision to the approved CUP,
subject to compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in Sections 4,5
and 6 of the agenda staff report.
Staff recommends approval of the advance grading request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JULY 2,2015)
The applicant was present.There were no objectors present.Staff presented the
item and a recommendation of approval as outlined in the "staff recommendation"
above.Staff also recommended approval of the requested advance grading
request.There was no further discussion.The item was placed on the consent
agenda and approved,as recommended by staff and including the advance
grading request,by a vote of 10 ayes,0 noes and 1 absent.
8
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:4 FILE NO.:Z-4289-A
NAME:Branch Communications Cellular —Tower Use Permit
LOCATION:9300 Geyer Springs Road
OWNER/APPLICANT:The Great River Region of the Christian Church/
Branch Communications
PROPOSAL:A tower use permit is requested to allow for
construction of a wireless communication facility
containing a 150 foot tall monopole tower and
associated ground equipment on this R-2 zoned
church property.
1.SITE LOCATION:
The WCF site is located on the rear portion of this church property.The
church is located on the west side of Geyer Springs Road,south of
Baseline,across from McClellan High School.
2.COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The property is located within an area of Geyer Springs Road that
contains several institutional uses;including the large high school and 4-5
churches.A residential neighborhood extends to the west.The WCF site
is located on the rear portion of the church property.The monopole tower
is 150 feet from the nearest property occupied by a single family
residence.Mature trees are located along the west and north perimeters
of this portion of the church property which will aid in screening the tower
from the residences.
Notice of the public hearing was sent to all owners of properties located
within 200 feet of the property and the SWLR United for Progress,Santa
Monica,Allendale and OUR Neighborhood Associations.
3.ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
Access to the WCF site will be via an access easement through the
church parking lot.No new driveways or curb cuts to the street are
proposed.The WCF site and church parking lot will provide all needed
parking for the WCF.
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:4 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4289-A
4.SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
Landscaping and screening are to comply with the provisions of Chapter
36,Article XII,Section 36 —593 as follow:
(1)All existing and new WCF shall be screened and landscaped as
follows:
(a)All WCF subject to this section shall contain a permanent
six-foot landscape strip parallel with all sides of the primary use
area and outside of the opaque fence but within the lease area,
except for a space for ingress and egress to the primary
use area.
(b)An eight-foot opaque fence shall be constructed,finished side
facing outward,around the primary use area to provide
screening and a background for required landscaping within the
six-foot landscape strip.
(c)The opaque fence shall also satisfy the security fence shall also
satisfy the security fence requirement of subsection (f).
The landscape strip on each side of the primary use area shall
be planted with two (2)trees of a two-inch caliper which will
grow to a spacing of fifteen (15)feet which will grow to a
minimum twenty (20)feet in height at maturity.Each landscape
strip shall also be planted with evergreen shrubs of thirty (30)
inches height at planting,with a maximum spacing of forty-eight
(48)inches on center and which will grow to a minimum height
of sixty (60)inches at maturity.
5.PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1.Geyer Springs Rd is classified on the Master Street Plan as a minor
arterial.A dedication of right-of-way 45 feet from centerline will be
required.
2.A special Grading Permit for Flood Hazard Areas will be required per
Sec.8-283 prior to construction.
3.A grading permit in accordance with section 29-186 (c)8 (d)will be
required prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site.
Other than residential subdivisions,site grading and drainage plans
must be submitted and approved prior to the start of construction.
4.The proposed site appears to be within the 100 year floodplain.The
minimum Finish Floor elevation for any improvements of 274 ft.or
higher is required to be shown on plat and grading plans.
2
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:4 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4289-A
5.In accordance with Section 31-176,floodway areas must be shown as
floodway easements or be dedicated to the public.In addition,a 25
foot wide drainage and access easement is required adjacent to the
floodway boundary.
6.UTILITY FIRE DEPT.AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater:Sewer available to this project.
Entergy:Entergy does not object to this proposal.A three phase power
line exists on the north side of the property and single phase power lines
exist on the east and west side of the property.Care should be used in
erecting the tower so that proper clearances are maintained from the
energized power lines.Contact Entergy in advance regarding future
service requirements and additional facilities location(s)as this project
proceeds.
Centerpoint Energy:No comment received.
AT8T:No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water:No Objection.
Fire Department:No comments.
Building Codes:Project is subject to full commercial plan review approval
prior to issuance of a building permit.For information on submittal
requirements and the review process,contact a commercial plans
examiner:
Structural Plan/Calculations required.
Mark Alderfer at 501.371.4875;malderfer littlerock.or .
County Planning:No comments.
CATA:The site is not located on a CATA bus route.The nearest route is
located along Baseline Road,to the north.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:(JUNE 10,2015)
Kayla Kramer of Branch Communications was present.Staff presented the item
and noted that the proposed WCF complied with all aspects of the code with the
exception of the setback from an R-2 zoned lot to the south.It was noted that
the lot in question was also owned by the church and was occupied by a church
office building,not a residence.
3
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:4 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4289-A
Staff noted there was an existing cellular tower at 9425 Geyer Springs.
However,the applicant stated a structural analysis completed on this tower
returned failing results.
Public Works Comments were discussed.Ms.Kramer stated the plan would be
modified to indicate the proper finished floor elevation as required.Staff
discussed the need for floodway,drainage and access easements for the
floodway.Ms.Kramer stated she would work with the property owner to address
those issues.
Other agency comments were noted.
The Committee determined there were no other issues and forwarded the item to
the full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
Branch Communications is requesting approval of a Tower Use Permit to allow
for construction of a wireless communication facility (WCF)on this R-2 zoned
church property.The WCF is to be located within a 40'40'ease area on the
rear portion of the property,behind the church building.Access will be through
the church parking lot via an access easement.
The WCF site will consist of a 150'all monopole cellular tower and associated
ground equipment.The WCF site will be enclosed by an 8'all,wood screening
fence.The required 6'ide landscape strip will be installed around all perimeters
of the site.The cellular tower will be designed to accommodate T-Mobile and up to
three additional carriers.A statement allowing those colocations has been
provided.A statement of effective radiated power (ERP)compliance with Federal
Communication Commission standards has been provided.
This proposed WCF is in fairly close proximity to another cell tower located
at 9425 Geyer Springs,on the McClellan High School campus.Branch
Communications has provided a structural analysis report on that tower showing
the tower to have insufficient structural capacity to accommodate an additional
carrier.
This proposed WCF site complies with all provisions of the code with one
exception.The tower is setback less than 150 feet from an R-2 lot to the south.
The tower is set at 99 feet from that property.The property in question,although
R-2,is owned by this same church and contains a church office building,not a
residence.
4
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:4 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4289-A
The church property and proposed WCF site are separated from the residences to
the west and north by Little Fourche Creek and matures trees.The tall trees will
help to provide visual screening of the tower.
To staff's knowledge,there are no outstanding issues.Prior to submittal for
building permit,the plans will need to be revised to indicate proper finished floor
elevation.Right-of-way and floodway easements will also need to be dedicated
prior to building permit submittal.No bill of assurance is required for TUP
submittals.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested TUP subject to compliance with
the comments and condition outlined in Sections 4,5 and 6 of the agenda staff
report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JULY 2,2015)
The applicant was present.There were no objectors present.Staff presented the
item and a recommendation of approval as outlined in the "staff recommendation"
above.There was no further discussion.The item was placed on the consent
agenda and approved,including all staff comments and conditions.The vote was
10 ayes,0 noes and 1 absent.
5
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:5 FILE NO.:Z-4537-C
NAME:Sophisticated Urban Clothing —Conditional Use
Permit
LOCATION:4215 Asher Avenue
OWNER/APPLICANT:Billy Pennington/Jonathan Pruitt
PROPOSAL:A conditional use permit is requested to allow for use
of the existing building on this l-2 zoned property for
retail sales of clothing and accessories.
1.SITE LOCATION:
The property is located on the southeast corner of Asher Avenue and
Joshua Street.
2.COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
This portion of Asher Avenue contains a wide variety of commercial and
light industrial uses.Allowing the reuse of this vacant,1,150 sq.ft.
building for retail sales appears to be compatible with uses in the area.
Notice of the public hearing was sent to all owners of properties within
200 feet of the site and the Midway Neighborhood Association.
3.ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
The 1,100 square feet retail store requires 3 on-site parking spaces.
There are 7 striped spaces adjacent to the building.Access is off of both
Joshua and Asher although it appears the Asher access has been blocked
in the past via use of concrete parking curbs.
4.SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
If building rehabilitation exceeds fifty percent (50%)of the replacement
cost then the landscaping and buffer must also come into compliancy
accordingly.
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:5 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4537-C
5.PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1.The property appears to be adjacent to the Joshua Street right-of-way.
2.Due to the proposed use of the property,the Master Street Plan
specifies that Joshua Street for the frontage of this property must meet
commercial street standards.Dedicate right-of-way to 30 feet from
centerline.
3.A 20 feet radial dedication of right-of-way is required at the intersection
of Asher Ave and Joshua St.
4.Asher Ave.is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal arterial
with special design standards.Dedication of right-of-way to 45 feet
from centerline will be required.
5.Based on the effective 2001 FIRMs,the only a portion of the structure
is within the 100 year floodplain.On the proposed 2015 FIRMs to be
adopted on July 7,2015,the entire structure is within the 100 year
floodplain.
6.The site lies within the 100 year floodplain of Fourche Creek.No
future construction of any structures including improvements to the
interior of the structures over 50%of the appraised market value of the
structure is allowed without the structure being flood proofed or the
finished floor elevation raised to the elevation of at least 1 ft.above the
base flood elevation.
7.Provide the proposed parking lot striping.
6.UTILITY FIRE DEPT.AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater:Sewer available to this project.
Entergy:Entergy does not object to the conditional use permit whereby
the applicant is requesting to use the existing building for retail clothing
sales.The building is already supplied with electric service.The
customer should contact Entergy in advance if changes in the electrical
service requirements to the building are required.
Centerpoint Energy:No Comments Received.
AT8T:No Comments Received.
Central Arkansas Water:All Central Arkansas Water requirements in
effect at the time of request for water service must be met.
2
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:5 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4537-C
Fire Department:
Maintain Access:
~Fi Hd
Maintain fire apparatus access roads at fire hydrant locations as per
Appendix D of the 2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Vol.1 Section
D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant.Where a fire hydrant is
located on a fire apparatus access road,the minimum road width shall be
26 feet,exclusive of shoulders.
~Fi Hd
Locate Fire Hydrants as per Appendix C of the 2012 Arkansas Fire
Prevention Code.Section C101 —C105,in conjunction with Central
Arkansas Water (Daniel Tull 501-377-1245)and the Little Rock Fire
Marshal's Office (Capt.Tony Rhodes 501-918-3757).Number and
Distribution of Fire Hydrants as per Table C105.1.
Building Codes:Project is a change in occupancy and is therefore
subject to current building code requirements.Review and approval is
required by Building Codes Division before occupancy takes place.For
information on submittal requirements and the review process,contact a
commercial plans examiner:
C i Ri h y 50 .3 .;~ih li»l k.
Mark Alderfer at 501.371.4875;malderfer littlerock.or .
County Planning:No Comments.
CATA:The site is located on a CATA bus route.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:(JUNE 10,2015)
The applicant,Jonathan Pruitt,was present.Staff presented the item and noted
little additional information was needed.In response to questions,Mr.Pruitt
stated days and hours of operation would be Sunday,12:00 —6:00 p.m.;
Tuesday —Saturday,11:00a.m.—7:00 p.m.and closed on Mondays.He said
signage would comply with that allowed in l-2;including a wall sign on the
facades facing the streets and a ground sign utilizing the existing pole on the
Asher perimeter.
3
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:5 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4537-C
Public Works Comments were noted.Staff commented that right-of-way
dedication was required for Asher Avenue and the radius of the intersection.
Mr.Pruitt was advised to discuss the particulars with Public Works Staff.
Other Agency Comments were noted.
The Committee determined there were no other issues and forwarded the item to
the full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
A conditional use permit is requested to allow use of the existing,1,100 square
foot building on this l-2 zoned property for retail sales of clothing and
accessories.
The property contains a one story,block building and a paved parking lot with
seven parking spaces.The property is located at the corner of Asher Avenue
and Joshua Street in an area of Mixed Commercial and Light Industrial uses.No
changes are proposed to the building and property other than for cosmetic
improvements to the building to accommodate the new store.
Proposed days and hours of operation are Sunday,1:00 p.m.—6:00 p.m.;
Tuesday —Saturday,11:00a.m.—7:00 p.m.and closed on Mondays.Signage
will comply with that allowed in l-2;including a wall sign on the facades facing the
streets and a ground sign utilizing the existing pole on the Asher perimeter.
Staff is not aware of any outstanding issues.The proposed clothing and
accessory store is compatible with uses in the area and is a good re-use of this
existing building.The plat/bill of assurance for Remmel Addition does not
address use issues.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested CUP,subject to compliance with
the comments and conditions outlined in Sections 4,5 and 6 of the agenda staff
report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JULY 2,2015)
The applicant was present.There were no objectors present.Staff presented the
item and a recommendation of approval as outlined in the "staff recommendation"
above.There was no further discussion.The item was placed on the consent
4
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:5 Cont.FILE NO.:Z-4537-C
agenda and approved,including all staff comments and conditions.The vote was
10 ayes,0 noes and 1 absent.
5
July 2,2015
ITEM NO.:6 FILE NO.:Z-8570-C
NAME:Verizon Wireless —Tower Use Permit
LOCATION:20001 Kanis Road
OWNER/APPLICANT:John Bale/Jim Curley —BTE Management Group
represented by Randal Frazier
PROPOSAL:A tower use permit is requested to allow for the
addition of 15 feet to the height of this existing 150
foot tall monopole cellular tower.
STAFF REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION:
On June 15,2015,the applicant requested deferral of this item to the August 13,
2015 meeting to allow an opportunity to address a neighbor's concerns.Staff
supports the deferral request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:(JULY 2,2015)
The applicant was not present.There were no objectors present.Staff informed
the commission that,on June 15,2015,the applicant had requested deferral of
the item to allow an opportunity to address a neighbor's concerns.There was no
further discussion.The item was placed on the consent agenda and deferred to
the August 13,2015 meeting by a vote of 10 ayes,0 noes and 1 absent.
P&RR(NG COMMISSION VOTE RECORD
DATE
BELT,JENNIFER MARTINEZ 4'
BERRY,CRAIG
BROCK,TOM
BUBBUS,AI AN
BYNUM,BUELAH
COX,KEITH
DILLON,JANET
FINN EY,REBECCA 4
HAMILTON,SCOTT 4
LAWURE,PAUL
MAY,BILL 8,
%K~FR
BELT,J ENN IF ER MARTINEZ
BERRY,CRAIG
BROCK,TOM
BUBBUS,ALAN
BYNUM,BUELAH
COX,KEITH
DILLON,JANET
FINNEY,REBECCA
HAMILTON,SCOTT
LAWURE,PAUl
MAY,Bli L 8.
Meeting Adjourned -::==-=.:==,,:="P,M,+~an ~~assn AB~ss~~i~R.~rcus~
July 2,2015
There being no further business before the Commission,the meeting
wBs 8d]ournecl 8t 4:41 p.m.
Date
(
I
j
(r'cket89Chairman.