pc_03 01 2007sub
LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBDIVISION HEARING
SUMMARY AND MINUTE RECORD
MARCH 1, 2007
4:00 P.M.
I. Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum
A Quorum was present being nine (9) in number.
II. Members Present: Gary Langlais
Lucas Hargraves
Robert Stebbins
Troy Laha
Jeff Yates
Jerry Meyer
Darrin Williams
Chauncey Taylor
Mizan Rahman
Members Absent: Pam Adcock
Fred Allen, Jr.
City Attorney: Cindy Dawson
III. Approval of the Minutes of the January 18, 2007 Meeting of the Little Rock
Planning Commission. The Minutes were approved as presented.
LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBDIVISION AGENDA
MARCH 1, 2007
OLD BUSINESS:
Item Number:
File Number:
Title
A. Z-7421-B Mid-Town Shopping Center Revised Long-form PCD,
located on the Northeast corner of West Markham Street
and University Avenue.
B. Z-8152 LPS Properties Short-form PCD, located at 424 North
University Avenue.
C LU06-08-04 A Land Use Plan Amendment in the Central City Planning
District for a change from Single Family and Mixed Use to
Office and Neighborhood Commercial at 1401 Bishop
Street and 1311 Bishop Street.
C.1. Z-8101-A Bishop Street Short-form POD and Central Station
Commercial Retail Center Short-form PCD, located on the
Southwest corner of 14th and Bishop Streets and the
Northwest corner of Daisy Gatson Bates and Martin L. King
Boulevard.
D. S-1495-A Park Circle Subdivision Preliminary Plat, located at the end
of Park Avenue, East of Western Hills Avenue.
E. S-1554 Herndon Place Subdivision Preliminary Plat, located South
of Stagecoach Road, East of Herndon Road.
F. LA-0015 Whisenhunt Investments Land Alteration Variance Request,
located on the Northwest corner of Chenal Parkway and
Kanis Road western intersection.
G. Revision of the Midtown Overlay, changes and additions to the required design
standards for the district.
Agenda, Page Two
NEW BUSINESS:
I. PRELIMINARY PLATS:
Item Number:
File Number:
Title
1. S-46-DD Overlook Revised Preliminary Plat, located on Overlook,
North of Overlook Circle.
2. S-1415-C Bowman Kanis Retail Center Preliminary Plat, located on
the Northwest corner of Kanis and Bowman Roads.
3. S-1433-A Foreman Lake Garden Addition Preliminary Plat, located on
Leatrice and Alberta Drives.
4. S-1556 Wise Subdivision Preliminary Plat, located at 10329 Mann
Road.
II. REZONING/PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS:
Item Number:
File Number:
Title
5. Z-4411-G Pleasant Ridge Towne Center Revised Long-form PCD,
located on the Southeast corner of Cantrell Road and
Pleasant Ridge Road.
6. Z-5742-A C & G Asset Management Short-form PCD, located at
1001 Wright Avenue.
7. LU07-18-01 A Land Use Plan Amendment in the Ellis Mountain
Planning District at the north side of Kanis Road between
Kirby and Asbury Roads from Mixed Office Commercial to
Service Trades District.
7.1. Z-6245-A ACME Self Storage Long-form PCD, located on the
Northeast corner of Kanis and Kirby Roads.
8. Z-6554-F Bowman Kanis Retail Center Rezoning, located on the
Northwest corner of Kanis and Bowman Roads.
Agenda, Page Three
II. REZONING/PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS: (CONTINUED)
Item Number:
File Number:
Title
9. Z-7695-A Smith Revised Short-form PD-R, located in the 1600 Block
of South Battery Street.
10. Z-7699-B Highway 10 Development Short-form POD, located at
16603 and 16623 Cantrell Road.
11. Z-7786-A Dennis Properties Revised Long-form PCD, located at
11421 Stagecoach Road.
12. Z-7991-A Maris Short-form PD-O, located at 3 Pine Mountain Drive.
13. LU07-09-03 A Land Use Plan Amendment in the I-630 Planning District
at the southeast corner of 7th and Woodrow Streets from
Service Trades District to Mixed Office Commercial.
13.1. Z-7895-A 7th and Woodrow Short-form PCD, located on the
Southeast corner of 7th and Woodrow Streets.
14. Z-8140-A ME Seckt LTD Company Short-form POD, located at
4720 West Markham Street.
15. Z-8167 Meyer Short-form PCD, located at West Markham and
Kavanaugh.
16. Z-8168 Waters Edge Tract B Long-form PD-R, located North of
David O Dodd Road, East of I-430.
17. LU07-09-02 A Land Use Plan Amendment in the I-630 Planning District
at 5801 Asher Avenue from Commercial, Industrial and
Park/Open Space to Multi Family.
17.1. Z-8169 UALR Student Housing Long-form PD-R, located South of
Asher Avenue, East of University Avenue.
18. LU07-29-01 A Land Use Plan Amendment in the Barrett Planning
District at the northwest corner of Highway 10 and Pleasant
Grove Road from Single Family to Office and Commercial.
18.1. Z-8170 Pinnacle at Maumelle Long-form Conceptual PCD, located
North of Highway 10 and North and West of Pleasant
Grove.
Agenda, Page Four
III. OTHER MATTERS:
Item Number:
File Number:
Title
19. Z-7585 River Tower Short-form PD-R Time Extension, located on
the Northeast corner River Bend and River Front Drive.
20. Z-6062 McAlmont POD Revocation, located at 1814 – 1824
McAlmont Street.
21. Z-3491 Albert Pike Phase II PD Revocation, located at 221 East 7th
Street.
22. Z-6554-E Bowman Kanis Retail Center Long-form PCD Revocation,
located on the Northwest corner of Kanis and Bowman
Roads.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: A FILE NO.: Z-7421-B
NAME: Mid-Town Shopping Center Revised Long-form PCD
LOCATION: Located on the Northeast corner of West Markham Street and
University Avenue
DEVELOPER:
Strode Property Company
5950 Berkshire Lane #1275
Dallas, TX 75225
ENGINEER:
White-Daters and Associates
#24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 10.5 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 zoning lot FT. NEW STREET: 0
CURRENT ZONING: PCD
ALLOWED USES: C-3, General Commercial District Uses
PROPOSED ZONING: Revised PCD
PROPOSED USE: C-3, General Commercial District Uses, Revise signage plan
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
Several zoning actions have taken place in this area from Board of Adjustment building
line variances to actual rezoning action. The most recent was the approval of a PCD for
219 North University Avenue. That request was approved by the Board of Directors on
July 16, 2002 (Ordinance No. 18,718). The site was zoned O-3 and the applicant
desired to rezone the site to PCD to allow flexibility in order to provide quality tenants to
serve the neighborhood area, utilizing the existing building. The PCD outlined specific
uses allowed on the site (Z-7233).
A second rezoning request was also for a PCD located between “B” and “C” Streets on
the east side of University Avenue. The Board of Directors approved the request on
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7421-B
2
August 29, 2000 with Ordinance No. 18,335. The request was to rezone the site from
R-3/R-5 to PCD to allow for the construction of a 25,600 square foot commercial
building along with 74 parking spaces. The applicant also proposed to realign “C”
Street to line up with the Park Plaza access drive on the west side of University Avenue.
The applicant proposed the hours of operation to be from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm Monday
through Saturday and from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm on Sunday.
The Board of Adjustment approved the use of 5909 and 5911 “C” Street as a
commercial parking lot on residentially zoned property on June 17, 1991. The parking
lot serves employees and patients of Gastroenterology Associates P.A. The proposed
parking lot was not a part of the approved PCD.
A rezoning request from various zoning classifications to PCD to allow a two phased
development located between West Markham Street and “C” Street and Pierce Street
and University Avenue was approved by the Planning Commission at their June 26,
2003 Public Hearing. The development was proposed as a mixed-use development
complete with residential, office and commercial uses. The request reviewed and the
area rezoned was the Phase I portion of the development. The Phase II portion of the
development was to be reviewed by the Commission as the development plans became
imminent.
Phase I consisted of three commercial buildings containing a total of 49,030 square feet
of gross floor space. The development also contained 255 parking spaces located on a
total of 5.3 acres.
The applicant proposed the realignment of “C” Street from the current location to the
south to align with the existing traffic signal on University Avenue at the access drive to
Park Plaza Mall. The applicant also proposed the abandonment of portions of “A”
Street and “B” Street and the portion of “C” Street, which would be realigned.
Ordinance No. 19,096 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on May 18, 2004,
revised the previously approved PCD. The revision included the development of 10.5
acres with 107,300 square feet of retail space plus 21,800 square feet of restaurant
space. The parking was indicated with 586 parking spaces. Portions of A, B and
C Street were also closed by the adoption of Ordinance No. 19,177.
Three sign locations were approved for the development. Each of the signs were
approved with a maximum of fifteen feet in height and one hundred square feet in area.
Presently the signs are in place along West Markham Street, C Street and the entrance
drive from University Avenue. Building signage was allowed on the front and rear of the
buildings with the aggregate sign area limited to ten percent of the front façade area.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7421-B
3
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is requesting a revision to the previously approved PCD related to
signage. The previous approval allowed signage on the front and rear facades of
the building with the total aggregated sign area square footage not to exceed ten
percent of the front facade area. The applicant is now requesting the allowance
of additional signage for the building located at the intersection of University
Avenue and C Street and the building located at the intersection of Pierce and
West Markham Streets. The request is to allow the placement of signage on
thee walls of the building. The request also includes an increase in sign height
for the sign located at the entrance of the development along West Markham
Street. The base of the sign is proposed to be increased by a maximum of four
feet for a total sign height of 19-feet
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is developing with the Mid-Town shopping center. A number of the stores
have opened with a few presently in tenant finish out. The area contains existing
single-family, multi-family and non-residential uses. There is a large multi-family
complex located on “C” Street just east of the development. Other uses in the
area include the Park Plaza Mall, the University Mall, the I-HOP Restaurant and
St. Vincent Hospital.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All owners of property located within 200-feet of the site and the
Hillcrest Residents Neighborhood Association were notified of the public hearing.
D. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was not present. Staff presented an overview of the request
indicating there were no outstanding issues associated with the request. Staff
stated the request included a modification to the existing signage plan for the
shopping center. Staff stated there were no other modifications of the approved
site plan proposed. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee
then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
E. ANALYSIS:
There were no technical issues remaining from the February 8, 2007, Subdivision
Committee meeting which needed addressing. The applicant is proposing a
revision to the approved PCD to allow additional signage. The request includes
the placement of signage on three sides of the building façade for the building
located on C Street and University Avenue and the building located on Pierce
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7421-B
4
and West Markham Streets. Each of these buildings have public street frontage
on two abutting roadways and the third location is the front of the building which
faces into the parking lot.
Staff is supportive of the allowance of the additional building signage as
proposed. Staff recommends the aggregate of the total signage be limited to ten
percent of the front façade as was previously approved.
The request also includes the allowance of an increased sign height for the
monument sign located on West Markham Street. The approved signage plan
allows a sign with a 1’8” cabinet or base and a 13’4” by 7’6” tenant identification
panel for a total sign height of 15’0”. The request is to allow the cabinet or base
to be increased by 4’ to a maximum of 5’8” to allow the lower tenant identification
panels to be visible from west bound West Markham Street. With the increase in
the base height the total sign height is 19-feet. No additional tenant identification
panels are being requested. The monument signs located along University
Avenue will remain as were previously approved with a maximum height of
15-feet.
Staff is supportive of this request. Staff does not feel the addition of four feet to
the existing sign based or the addition of wall signage on two of the buildings will
significantly impact the development or the area.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the revision to the PCD to allow a revision to the
existing signage plan subject to the aggregate area of the wall signage not
exceeding ten percent of the front façade of the specific building.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 18, 2007)
The applicant was not presented. Staff presented the item stating the applicant had
failed to provide staff with a completed application. Staff presented a recommendation
of deferral of the item to the March 1, 2007 public hearing. Staff stated this would allow
the item to be reviewed by the Subdivision Committee at their February 8, 2007,
committee meeting.
There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the revision to the PCD to
allow a revision to the existing signage plan subject to the aggregate area of the wall
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7421-B
5
signage not to exceed ten percent of the front façade of the specific building. Staff also
presented a recommendation of approval of the increased sign height on West
Markham Street by increasing the base height of the monument sign.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 8 ayes, 0 noes, 2 absent and 1 recusal (Jeff Yates).
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: B FILE NO.: Z-8152
NAME: LPS Properties Short-form PCD
LOCATION: Located at 424 North University Avenue
DEVELOPER:
LPS Properties, LLC
Sam Storthz III, Managing Partner
810 North University Avenue
Little Rock, AR 72205
ENGINEER:
Edward Smith – White Daters and Associates
24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 0.96 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0
CURRENT ZONING: O-3, General Office District
ALLOWED USES: General and Professional Office Uses
PROPOSED ZONING: PCD
PROPOSED USE: O-3 uses and selected C-3 uses
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: A deferral of the required right of way
dedication to South University Avenue and Father Tribou Street.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The building located at 424 N. University was originally constructed in 1970 as a
masonry construction and contains approximately 11,968 square feet of rental
area. The property is currently zoned O-3, General Office District which allows
for general office type uses as allowable uses on the site. In addition, the site is
allowed a maximum of ten percent of the gross floor area as a listed accessory
use as indicated in the O-3, General Office District zoning classification. The
applicant is proposing a rezoning of the site to PCD to expand the allowable uses
for the site. The site is proposed as a mixed use development and is proposed
to contain the following uses either as a single user or a mixture of uses:
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8152
2
A. Keeping the existing permitted uses under the “0-3” General Office District
Zoning.
B. Keeping the following existing permitted uses under the “0-3” General Office
District Accessory Uses Zoning except delete the “shall not exceed ten (10)
percent of the total floor area on the site” provision.
Antique shop, Barber and beauty shop, Book and stationary shop,
Camera shop, Candy store, Clothing store, (including clothing
accessories), Custom sewing or millinery, Drugstore or pharmacy, Eating
place, (Pick-up Only), Florist shop, Health studio or spa, Hobby shop,
Jewelry store, Key shop, Laundry pickup station, Tailor shop.
C. Add the following permitted uses in the “C-3” General Commercial District:
Appliance sales and repairs, Audio sales and service, Auto parts and
accessories, Bakery or confectionery shop, Beauty supply store, Bicycle
shop, Beverage shop, (coffee, tea, fruit or health drinks), Card shop,
Carpet and flooring store, Catering, commercial, Clock or watch repair,
Cosmetic store, Computer sales and repair, Dollar and variety store,
Fabric store, Food store, Frame shop, Furniture store and/or rentals
and/or repairs, Garden and supply shop (indoor only), Gift shop,
Handicraft, ceramic, sculpture or similar artwork store, studio or gallery,
Hardware store, Houseware and kitchen store, Interior decorating shop,
Job printing, Lithographer, printing or blue printing, Kitchen remodeling
store, Linen shop, Luggage store, Medical appliance fittings and sales,
Mail services store, Massage therapist, Music store, Office equipment
sales and service, Office supply store, Optical shop, Paint and wallpaper
store, School supplies, Second hand shop (resale of used goods such as
used furniture, clothes, books, etc, ), Shoe repair, Sporting goods store,
Swimming pool sales and supplies, Telephone and accessory sales and
repair, Television sales and repairs, Toy store, Upholstery shop, Video,
DVD, CD’s sales and rentals, Vitamins and health food store.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site contains an office building and associated parking currently being used
as a medical office. To the north of the site is a private school and to the south of
the site is a residential tower and an office tower is located to the southwest.
There is a nursing home located immediately west of the site and east of the site
are office uses. Other uses in the area include two shopping centers, Park Plaza
and Mid-Towne.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8152
3
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All property owners located within 200-feet of the site, all residents
who could be identified, located within 300-feet of the site, the Hillcrest Residents
Neighborhood Association and the Briarwood Neighborhood Association were
notified of the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. University Avenue is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal
arterial. Dedication of right-of-way to 55 feet from centerline will be required.
2. The proposed land use would classify Father Tribou Street (Lee Street) on
the Master Street Plan as a commercial street. Dedicate right-of-way to
30 feet from centerline.
3. A 20 foot radial dedication of right-of-way is required at the intersection of
Father Tribou Street and University Avenue.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this property.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: No comment received.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: No objection. Contact Central Arkansas Water if larger
and/of additional water meters are required.
Fire Department: Approved as submitted
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the West Little Rock Planning
District. The Land Use Plan shows Mixed Use for this property. The applicant is
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8152
4
proposing to rezone the site to Planned Commercial District to all additional
commercial uses to be available as allowable uses for the site.
The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan.
Master Street Plan: Farther Tribou is shown as a Collector on the Master Street
Plan and University Avenue is shown as a Arterial street. These streets may
require dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements. The
primary function of a Collector Street is to provide a connection from Local
Streets to Arterials. The primary function of an Arterial Street is to serve through
traffic and to connect major traffic generators or activity centers within an
urbanized area.
Bicycle Plan: Existing or proposed Class I, II, or III Bikeways are not in the
immediate vicinity of the development.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The applicant’s property lies in the
area covered by the Mid-Town Neighborhood Action Plan. The Zoning and Land
Use goal has these objective(s) relevant to this case: “Improve and increase
retail development to meet local demands for goods and services, revitalize
declining commercial areas and support smart growth and positive in-fill
development.
Landscape: No comment. Any future redevelopment of the site may require the
addition of landscaping such as perimeter landscaping, parking lot landscaping
and building landscaping.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (December 28, 2006)
The applicant was not present. Staff stated there were no outstanding technical
issues associated with the request. Staff stated they would work with the
applicant to ensure all comments were complied with or variances and/or waivers
requested. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then
forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
H. ANALYSIS:
There were no outstanding technical issues remaining from the December 28,
2006, Subdivision Committee meeting. The applicant has met with staff
concerning the requested right of way dedication and is seeking a deferral of the
required dedication. Staff is not supportive of the deferral request however staff
is supportive of a reduced right of way dedication. Staff is supportive of the
allowance of a 25-foot right of way dedication along Father Tribou Drive and a
45-foot right of way dedication along South University Avenue. According to the
applicant, with the current configuration of the site plan, the full right of way
dedication would severely impact the site and present access drives. This being
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8152
5
the case, staff is supportive of the reduced standard for this application request.
Staff is not supportive of a deferral of the right of way dedication. Staff feels the
right of way should be dedicated as a part of the approval. The rezoning request
will potentially increase the activity on the site, creating a commercial
development, thus potentially necessitating additional street improvements in the
area.
The site is located within the Midtown Overlay District. The purpose of the
Midtown Overlay District is to create a quality vital atmosphere for businesses,
commercial or office and residents. Buildings, parking, signage, landscaping and
street furnishings should all be designed to complement and encourage
pedestrian use both day and evening. As stated in the purpose and intent
section of the Midtown Overlay District proper planning is necessary to ensure
visual clutter is avoided. Guideline and strategies must be in place to protect the
district from the negative impact of poorly planned or incompatible development
has the potential to destroy the attributes that will attract people to the district.
The district regulations shall apply to new development, and redevelopment
exceeding fifty percent of the structure’s current replacement value and
expansion of existing development. The design guidelines shall be implemented
when a permit is requested for exterior improvements on buildings or in the
public right of way. Routine repairs, maintenance and interior alterations shall
not require compliance with the overlay regulations.
The applicant is proposing the redevelopment of the site as a mixed use
development with no limits placed on the uses proposed. There are no exterior
modifications proposed to the existing building or parking. All renovations will be
interior renovations only. The building contains 11,968 square feet along with
72 parking spaces. Based on typically minimum parking requirements for a
commercial development, 39 parking spaces would be required. Based on
typical parking ratios for a mixed use development (1 space per 225 square feet)
53 parking spaces would typically be required.
Neither the site plan nor cover letter indicates any signage either existing or
proposed. Signage typically allowed in office zones is a maximum of six feet in
height and sixty-four square feet in area. With regard to signage, the Midtown
Overlay District states no pole-mounted signs and no wood, painted signs or
pan-faced-style signs are permitted. Staff would recommend if additional
signage is approved, the signage conform to signage as allowed per the Midtown
Overlay District.
Staff has concerns with the proposed use mix and a number of the indicated
uses proposed for the site. As stated, the applicant has not placed limits on the
proposed use mix of the site; only indicated the site will be redeveloped as a
mixed use development. The site is indicated on the City’s Future Land Use
Plan as “Mixed Use” which allows for the residential, office and commercial uses
to occur. The Land Use classification requires the approval of a planned zoning
district if the use is entirely office or commercial or if the use is a mixture of the
three. With the current application request, the site could be solely a commercial
use as indicated in the Proposal Section above. There are a number of uses
staff feels are not appropriate for the site based on the level of activity the
proposed uses typically generate.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8152
6
Although there are a number of commercial uses located in the area staff does
not feel this site is appropriate for a one hundred percent commercial
development. There are residential uses located to the west and south of the
site both in a nursing home and a residential tower and office uses located to the
south, west and east of the site. A school is located to the northwest of the site.
The retail activity has predominately been held south of C Street at the
intersections of University Avenue and West Markham Street both classified on
the Master Street Plan as arterial roadways. The site is currently zoned O-3
which allows 10 percent of the total floor area to be a commercial type activity as
listed in the accessory uses under the O-3 zoning district. Staff feels the
presently allowed commercial uses are adequate. Staff feels the use of the
property should remain predominately office with the commercial activity being
secondary.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends denial of the request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 18, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff stated
the applicant had submitted a request dated January 18, 2007, requesting a deferral of
the item. Staff stated the deferral request would require a waiver of the Commission’s
By-laws with regard to the late deferral request. Staff stated they were supportive of the
deferral request.
There was no further discussion of the item. A motion was made to waiver the By-laws
with regard to the late deferral request. The motion carried by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes
and 1 absent. The chair entertained a motion for placement of the item on the consent
agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
In recognition of the fact that this is a developed site and the applicant proposes only
use changes and no changes to the existing building footprint, drives and parking, staff
is recommending a reduced right of way dedication on Father Tribou Street (formerly
Lee Street) of 25 feet from the centerline (instead of the Master Street Plan requirement
of 30 feet) and 45 feet from the centerline of University Avenue (rather than 55 feet).
The approximate 5 foot dedication on Father Tribou and University Avenue are required
due to the increased intensity of uses for the site with the change from office to
commercial uses and the allowance of up to 75 percent of the site being selected C-3
commercial uses by right. With the greater intensity of the use mix, additional traffic is
expected which right turn lanes can correct when added to the existing streets, but until
such lanes are built, the City will provide the applicant with a franchise to allow the
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8152
7
existing parking to be located in the portion of the right of way to be dedicated. Any
future redevelopment of the site will require full right of way dedication and meeting the
boundary street ordinance requirements.
The applicant expressed concern about the effect of future street widening on access to
the site and improvements now located in the portion to be dedicated. For City-funded
projects, the City bears the cost of relocating improvements such as driveways, curbing
and landscaping which is disturbed in the street widening process.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was not present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item stating the applicant had submitted a request dated February 21,
2007, requesting the item be withdrawn from consideration without prejudice. Staff
stated they were supportive of the withdrawal request.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for withdrawal. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: C FILE NO.: LU06-08-04
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment - Central City Planning District
Location: Either side of Daisy Bates east of Bishop Street
Request: Single Family and Mixed Use to Office and Neighborhood Commercial
Source: Ron Woods
PROPOSAL / REQUEST:
Land Use Plan amendment in the Central City Planning District from Single Family to
Office and Mixed Use to Neighborhood Commercial. The proposed Neighborhood
Commercial is a quarter block at the northeast corner of Daisy Bates and Bishop
Streets and the proposed Office is one lot at the southeast corner of Daisy Bates and
Bishop Streets. Neighborhood Commercial includes limited small-scale commercial
development in close proximity to a neighborhood. Office represents services provided
directly to consumers as well as general offices, which support more basic economic
activities. The proposed use of the property is for residential/office and commercial.
Staff is not expanding this application because this area was reviewed within the past
year.
EXISTING LAND USE AND ZONING:
The property is urban residential with one single-family residence and two duplexes. It
is currently zoned O3 General Office District on the north side of Daisy Gatson Bates
Drive and R3 Single Family on the south side of Daisy Gatson Bates Drive. The site is
1 acre ± in size. To the east and southeast of this site is zoned C3 General Commercial
and is used for commercial type uses: a beauty parlor, a Church’s Chicken and Uncle
T’s Food Mart. To the west is currently vacant, and it is zoned O2 General Office for a
new medical clinic and a parking lot. To the southwest is zoned R3 Single Family for
single-family residences. Immediately north of this site is zoned R4 Two Family District,
but it is a vacant lot. Northeast of the area is zoned R5 and currently is used for multi
family housing. The area to the south has a single-family residence on it, and there is
very little space between the application area and this house. To the southwest of this
site, on the southwest corner of Bishop and Daisy Gatson Bates is a Planned Office
Development for a hair salon in a house.
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN AND RECENT AMENDMENTS:
The application site is currently planned for Mixed Use on the north side of Daisy
Gatson Bates Drive. The portion of the application on the south side of Daisy Gatson
Bates Drive is planned for Single Family. To the southwest is also planned for Single
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU06-08-04
2
Family Residential. To the east and southeast is planned Neighborhood Commercial,
and to the west is Public Institutional. North of this site is planned for Mixed Office
Commercial.
October 4, 2005, Ordinance 19418 amended multiple locations in this area.
Immediately to the west of the application was changed from Mixed Use to
Neighborhood Commercial. To the southeast was changed from Mixed Use to Single
Family. And north of this site at 13th and Bishop was changed from Mixed Office
Commercial to Public Institutional.
March 19, 2002, Ordinance 18656 changed multiple areas in this vicinity. Two blocks
between Wolfe and Bishop and north of Daisy Gatson Bates were changed from Public
Institutional and Mixed Use to Mixed Use and Public Institutional.
MASTER STREET PLAN:
Bishop Street is shown as a Local Street on the Master Street Plan. The primary
function of a Local Street is to provide access to adjacent properties. Local Streets that
are abutted by non-residential zoning/use or more intensive zoning than duplexes are
considered as “Commercial Streets”. These streets have a design standard the same
as a Collector. Daisy Gatson Bates Drive is shown as a Collector on the Master Street
Plan. The primary function of a Collector Street is to provide a connection from Local
Streets to Arterials. These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may
require street improvements.
BICYCLE PLAN:
A Class II route is shown along Daisy Gatson Bates Drive. A Class II bikeway is located
on the street as either a 5’ shoulder or six foot marked bike lane. Additional paving and
right of way may be required.
PARKS:
According to the Master Parks Plan, this area is within eight blocks of a park or open
space. The application area is located between three different parks: Centennial,
Dunbar, and Ninth Street.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS:
There are no city recognized historic districts that would be affected by this amendment.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU06-08-04
3
CITY RECOGNIZED NEIGHBORHOOD ACTION PLAN:
The area is not covered by a city recognized Neighborhood Action Plan.
ANALYSIS:
The application site is part of an existing residential area in the Central City Planning
District. The application site is on the north and south sides of Daisy L. Gatson Bates
Drive on the east side of Bishop Street. Daisy Gatson Bates Drive is one of the main
entryways into the Central High National Historic District. Central High School National
Landmark is also accessed from downtown via Daisy Gatson Bates. As the entryway to
this national landmark, this street and its development should be closely scrutinized.
Within a half-mile of this application site there are various opportunities for Commercial
uses on the Future Land Use Plan. The intersection of 16th Street and Martin Luther
King Drive is occupied and planned for Neighborhood Commercial. Half a mile to the
south of the application area is Wright Avenue, which is planned for either Mixed Use or
Commercial between Summit and Pulaski Streets. This area has several vacant lots
that could be developed for commercial use.
Currently the portion of the application site on the north side of Daisy Gatson Bates
Drive is planned for Mixed Use. A Planned Zoning Development (PZD) is required with
the Mixed Use category if the use is entirely office or commercial or if the use is a
mixture of the three (residential, office, commercial). A PZD would allow this area to be
scrutinized more closely before development while a change to Neighborhood
Commercial would allow small-scale commercial development without a PZD. While
commercial uses are allowed in both Mixed Use and Neighborhood Commercial, Mixed
Use category is preferable for this site because it requires the PZD. Children’s Hospital
is developing the site immediately west of the application area. A site plan review for a
clinic in O2 zoning was required. One block further west on Daisy Gatson Bates Drive
is an old school building that has been converted into apartments. This site was
reviewed through the PZD process for a Planned Development-Residential. In
essence, the two blocks immediately to the west went through a more intense plan
review. In keeping with this trend, this new application site should be required to
complete a PZD as required in the Mixed Use category.
Another point to consider is that the tract of land just east of this application site, the
quarter-block at the northwest corner of Martin Luther King Drive and Daisy Gatson
Bates, is already planned for Neighborhood Commercial, zoned C3, and is vacant.
While there is still vacant Neighborhood Commercial available with no development
pending, a Land Use Amendment without a specific use seems premature. There does
not seem to be a high demand in the area for more commercial uses. There are also
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU06-08-04
4
many opportunities for office space to the north of Daisy Gatson Bates Drive. South of
Daisy Bates has a land use pattern of single-family residences. North of Daisy Bates is
seeing increasing amounts of Children’s Hospital owned property. The medical office
uses will most likely continue to dominate this area north of Daisy Bates.
The portion of the application site on the south side of Daisy Gatson Bates Drive is
planned for Single Family. There is currently a single-family residence on the lot and
there are houses next door and across Bishop Street. These houses are the
northernmost part of a larger area of housing that expands south to Roosevelt. These
houses were built very close together, and there is very little space on the south side of
Daisy Gatson Bates between the proposed office and the single-family house on
Bishop. Also, these single-family homes face the side streets. This is an aspect of the
neighborhood that needs to be protected and strengthened. A design review of
development to the north of Daisy Bates can help to protect these side street facing
houses. Again, a change to Suburban office instead of Office could be more
appropriate since the Suburban Office category requires a PZD for the site. The
juxtaposition between the Office and the Single Family needs to be addressed in the
bulk, mass, and use of any proposed development. A change to Office on the Land
Use Plan would be inappropriate because it would not leave any sort of buffer between
the houses and the offices.
Also, the Land Use Plan for this area was just reviewed last year, and Ordinance 19418
amended multiple locations in this area. The three acres adjacent to the east of this
application site was changed from Mixed Use to Neighborhood Commercial. At the
intersection of 15th Street and Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, four acres were changed
from Office to Mixed Use. One block further south was changed from Mixed Use to
Neighborhood Commercial. All these changes were intended to make the Land Use
Plan more reflective of the existing land use, zoning and likely short-term future land
use development of the area.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
Notices were sent to the following neighborhood associations: Central High
Neighborhood, Inc. and Downtown Neighborhood Association. Staff has not received
any comments.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff believes the change is not appropriate. Staff believes that not only the use but
also the design should be reviewed for the entry to a National Landmark Site such as
Central High School.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU06-08-04
5
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 28, 2006)
At the request of the applicant this item was placed on the consent agenda for deferral.
By a vote of 9 for, 0 against the consent agenda was approved.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (NOVEMBER 9, 2006)
The item was placed on the consent agenda for deferral at the request of the applicant
to December 7, 2006. By a vote of 9 for, 0 against (Rahman, Allen absent) the consent
agenda was approved.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 7, 2006)
The applicant requested this item be differed to January 18, 2007. The item was placed
on consent agenda for deferral. By a vote of 10 for, 0 against the consent agenda was
approved.
STAFF UPDATE:
Part of the application (the portion north of Daisy Gatson Bates) has been withdrawn.
The application has been amended to a change from Single Family to Suburban Office
on the south side of Daisy Gatson Bates. Staff believes the change is not appropriate.
Staff believes that, while Suburban Office is designed to be compatible with surrounding
Single Family Residential, this does not mean that Suburban Office change from Single
Family is always appropriate. In this case the structures are oriented to the side street.
Staff feels that it is inappropriate to introduce a different land use plan category into this
block. As has been noted the general neighborhood is a fragile residential
neighborhood. There has been some minimal redevelopment of the residential in the
area to the south and east. The City wishes to encourage this reinvestment in the
residential housing stock of the neighborhood. As part of this effort non-residential uses
should be kept to the north of Daisy Bates in this section of Bishop Street.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 18, 2007)
The item was placed on consent agenda for deferral at the request of Staff due to an
issue on the related PZD application. By a vote of 10 for, 0 against the consent agenda
was approved.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU06-08-04
6
STAFF UPDATE:
There has been no change to this application.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant requested this item be withdrawn without prejudice. The item was placed
on consent agenda for withdrawal. The consent agenda was approved by a vote of
9 for, 0 against with 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: C.1 FILE NO.: Z-8101-A
NAME: Bishop Street Short-form POD and Central Station Commercial Retail Center
Short-form PCD
LOCATION: Located on the Southwest corner of 14th and Bishop Streets and the Northwest
corner of Daisy Gatson Bates and Martin L. King Boulevard
DEVELOPER:
Ron Woods, AIA
2200 South Main Street
Little Rock, AR 72206
ENGINEER:
Blaylock Threet Engineers, Inc.
1501 Market Street
Little Rock, AR 72211
AREA: 0.97 Acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 Zoning Lot FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: O-3 and C-3 and R-4
ALLOWED USES: General and Professional Office, General Commercial
and Two-family Residential
PROPOSED ZONING: PCD and PD-O
PROPOSED USE: C-3 uses and Office
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is requesting a rezoning of the property located on the northwest corner
of Daisy L. Gatson Bates and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive from O-3 and C-3 to
Planned Commercial Development (PCD) to allow the development of the site with a
two story structure of approximately 20,000 square feet in area. The use is mixed
retail and office space; with retail approximately 10,076 square feet and office
approximately 10,000 square feet. There are fifty-two (52) onsite parking spaces and
the developer is currently in negotiations with Arkansas Children’s Hospital to lease
thirty (30) additional spaces adjacent to the property to the west.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8101-A
2
The request includes the abandonment of an alley located within the development.
The alley is located adjacent to Lots 4 – 6 and Lot 7R Centennial Addition to the City
of Little Rock.
The property located on the southeast corner of West 14th and Bishop Streets is also
proposed for rezoning. The property is currently zoned R-4 and the applicant is
seeking approval of a Planned Office Development (PD-O) to allow the site to be
utilized as an office use for the management of the retail center proposed for
construction.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
There are two sites under consideration for redevelopment. The property at the
northeast corner of Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, Bishop Street and Daisy L.
Gatson Bates Drive and a property located at the southeast corner of Bishop Street
and Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive. The northern site is occupied by three (3) single-
family residential structures and the lot at the southeast corner is occupied by a single-
family residence. There are platted alley rights-of-way along the east side of both
properties. There is a mixture of uses in this general area. Arkansas Children’s
Hospital property is located immediately north and west of the northern property. The
intersection of Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive has
commercial uses on three of the four corners; these commercial businesses including
a barbershop, a strip center and a restaurant. Single-family residential structures and
vacant lots are located to the south and southwest.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All property owners located within 200-feet of the site, all residents, who
could be identified, located within 300-feet of the site, the Downtown and Central High
Neighborhood Associations were notified of the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. Provide notification of all property owners located within 200-feet of the site,
complete with the certified abstract list, notice form with affidavit executed and
proof of mailing. The notice must be mailed no later than November 22, 2006.
The Office of Planning and Development must receive the proof of notice no later
than November 30, 2006.
2. Provide a detailed cover letter of the application request.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8101-A
3
3. Provide the proposed zoning classifications of each of the proposed uses (south
of Daisy L Gatson Bates and north of Daisy L Gatson Bates). Will the southern
property be used as an office for the strip center?
4. The site plan indicates the placement of the green area at the intersection of
Bishop Street and not at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
Staff feels this intersection should be enhanced.
5. Provide details of the proposed bus pull off. Will the buses be parked in this area
for a length of time?
6. Provide the total square footage of restaurant space and the total square footage
of other retail space. The site plan indicates the placement of an outdoor dining
area. Provide the total square footage of the outdoor dining area as well.
7. Provide the proposed building elevations for the center. Provide construction
materials of the new building being proposed.
8. Will any parking or additional paving be added to the southern property? If so
provide a site plan indicating the proposed additional paving.
9. Provide the days and hours of operation for each of the proposed uses.
10. Provide the hours of dumpster service in the general notes section of the site
plan.
11. Any additional site lighting must be low level and directed downward and into the
site.
12. Provide written agreements for any off site parking.
13. Provide the total percentage of landscaped area, the total percentage of building
coverage and the total percentage of parking coverage in the general notes
section of the site plan.
14. Provide the maximum building height in the general notes section of the site plan.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: There is an existing 8 inch sewer main located on the property. No
construction of any permanent structure within five feet of the existing sewer main.
Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: No comment received.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the
time of request for water service must be met. Additional fire hydrant(s) will be
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8101-A
4
required. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department to obtain information regarding the
required placement of the hydrant(s) and contact Central Arkansas Water regarding
procedures for installation of the hydrant(s). 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: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is located on CATA Bus Route #11 – the Martin Luther King Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Central City Planning District. The
Land Use Plan shows Single Family and Mixed Use for this property. The applicant
has applied for a rezoning to Planned Office Development and Planned Commercial
Development.
A land use plan amendment for a change to Suburban Office on the southeast corner
of Daisy Gatson Bates and Bishop Street is a separate item on this agenda
(LU06-08-04).
Master Street Plan: Daisy Gatson Bates is shown as a Collector on the Master Street
Plan and Bishop Street is shown as a Local Street. These streets may require
dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements. The primary function
of a Collector Street is to provide a connection from Local Streets to Arterials. The
primary function of a Local Street is to provide access to adjacent properties.
Bicycle Plan: A Class II bike route is shown on Daisy Gatson Bates Drive. A Class II
bikeway is located on the street as either a 5 foot shoulder or six foot marked bike
lane. Additional paving and right of way may be required.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not located
in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood action plan.
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. The proposal appears to be located within the six foot nine inch (6’-9”) wide
landscape strip along the northern property line next to the residentially zoned
property. This is a requirement of both the zoning buffer ordinance and the
landscape ordinance. Seventy percent (70%) of this buffer is to remain
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8101-A
5
undisturbed. A variance from the City Beautiful Commission will be required prior
to the issuance of a building permit.
3. A six (6) foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side directed
outward, a wall, or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the northern
perimeter of the site. Credit towards fulfilling this requirement can be given for
existing trees and undergrowth that satisfies this year-around requirement.
4. A small amount of building landscaping is required. This landscape area is to be
located between the parking lot and the building.
5. The landscape ordinance and the street buffer ordinance requires a minimum of
six foot nine inches of landscaped area along Daisy L. Gatson Bates. Current
proposal does not allow for this minimum requirement. A variance from this
minimum requirement will require approval from the City Beautiful Commission
prior to the issuance of a building permit. It appears the parking lot can be
reduced to help meet this minimum requirement.
6. Street trees may be required in this area. They would also enhance the area and
this project.
7. An automatic irrigation system to water the landscaped areas is required.
8. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing trees as
feasible on this tree-covered site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance
requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or larger.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (December 28, 2006)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an overview of
the proposed development indicating there were a number of outstanding issues
associated with the request. Staff requested the applicant provide a detailed cover
letter for the project. Staff questioned the proposed uses for the new strip center and
the proposed office use for the residence located south of Daisy L. Gatson Bates.
Staff questioned the number of restaurants to locate in the strip center. Staff also
questioned how the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Daisy L.
Gatson Bates would be softened.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated radial dedications would be
required at the intersections of the abutting streets. Staff also stated the site plan was
not drawn to scale and requested the applicant provide a scalable drawing.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated the proposal appeared to be
located within the required land use buffer located along the northern perimeter. Staff
stated screening would be required along the northern perimeter. Staff also stated a
small amount of building landscaping would be required.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8101-A
6
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and agencies
suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information and
clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. 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 most of the issues
raised at the December 28, 2006, Subdivision Committee meeting. The applicant has
submitted a revised site plan which places the building closer to Daisy L. Gatson Bates
and places the parking within the rear of the building. The site plan indicates the
placement of landscaping and a courtyard at the intersection of Daisy L. Gatson Bates
and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive to soften the impact on the intersection.
The site plan includes the placement of 51 on site parking spaces. The developer has
indicated negotiations are underway with an adjoining property owner to lease an
additional 30 parking spaces through a long-term lease. The development is proposed
with approximately 20,000 square feet of retail and office spaces. Based on the typical
minimum parking required for a mixed use development 88 parking spaces would
typically be required. Staff is supportive of the parking as proposed provided the
applicant secure the additional 30 offsite parking spaces as proposed.
The site plan does not include the placement of signage on the site plan. Staff
recommends signage be limited to signage as allowed per the commercial zoning
district or a maximum of 36-feet in height and 160 square feet in area. Building
signage should be limited to building signage as allowed in commercial zones or a
maximum of ten percent of the façade area.
The hours of operation for the facility have not been indicated. Staff would
recommend hours of operation be limited to 6:00 am to midnight seven days per week.
The adjacent parking lot has been indicated as a part of the proposed site plan. The
parking lot has been indicated with two drive locations along West 13th Street. Staff is
not supportive of the placement of the two driveway locations. Typically drives are to
be spaced at a minimum of 150-feet from the intersection and 150-feet from the
property line. Staff recommends the parking lot access be provided via the existing
alley or one drive location be provided to serve the proposed parking lot.
With respect to the lot at the southeast corner of Bishop Street and Daisy Bates Drive,
staff believes the zoning should remain single family residential. With the exception of
the POD zoning immediately west, the properties south of Daisy Bates Drive and west
of the C-3 zoned property at the southwest corner of M. L. King Drive and Daisy Bates
Drive contain single family/two-family residences and are zoned R-3 and R-4. There
are also a number of vacant lots in this area. Staff believes that new home
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8101-A
7
construction could take place in this area in the near future, with renewed interest in
the Central High area of Little Rock.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the rezoning request located on the Northwest corner of
Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive from O-3 and C-3 to
PCD subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in
paragraphs D, E, F and H of the above agenda staff report.
Staff recommends denial of the requested rezoning from R-4 to PD-O located on the
Southeast corner of Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive and Bishop Street.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 18, 2007)
The applicant was present. There was one registered objector present. Staff presented the
item with a recommendation of deferral of the item to the March 1, 2007, public hearing. Staff
stated concerns had been raised concerning the proposed parking arrangement and they
needed additional time to alleviate this concern.
There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for placement of
the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes
and 1 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
There has been no change in this application request since the previous public hearing. Staff
continues to recommend denial of the request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff stated the
applicant had submitted a revised site plan and a letter of commitment from Arkansas
Children’s Hospital indicating an agreement for the placement of 30 parking spaces on
property owned by ACH. Staff also stated the applicant had indicated the closing hour of the
development would be 2:00 am to correspond with closing hours of adjacent businesses.
Staff stated the applicant had amended the application request removing the POD portion of
the request located on the southeast corner of 14th and Bishop Streets. Staff stated they
were now supportive of the proposed request. Staff presented a recommendation of
approval of the proposed PCD zoning subject to compliance with the comments and
conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the agenda staff report.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8101-A
8
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for placement of
the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes
and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: D FILE NO.: S-1495-A
NAME: Park Circle Subdivision Preliminary Plat
LOCATION: Located at the end of Park Avenue, East of Western Hills Avenue
DEVELOPER:
CL Clifton
608 Nan Circle
Little Rock, AR 72211
ENGINEER:
McGetrick and McGetrick Engineers
10 Otter Creek Court, Suite A
Little Rock, AR 72210
AREA: 7.07 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 30 FT. NEW STREET: 2,500 LF
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, Single-family
PLANNING DISTRICT: 10 – Boyle Park
CENSUS TRACT: 24.06
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
An application was filed for the July 7, 2005, Planning Commission public hearing to
allow the creation of 12 single-family lots from a 3.22-acre tract. The lots were
proposed with an average lot size of 60-feet by 120-feet or 7,200 square feet and
600 linear feet of new street was to be constructed to serve the new lots. Staff raised
concerns related to access for the proposed development and the Commission deferred
the request to their November 10, 2005, public hearing. At the November 10, 2005,
public hearing the applicant withdrew the proposed plat request.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is now proposing the subdivision of a 7.07-acre site into 30 single-
family lots. The proposed plat area has been expanded to the north to include a
portion of property previously owned by the Country Club. An average lot size of
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1495-A
2
60-feet by 120-feet or 7,200 square feet is proposed with an overall density of
4.24 units per acre, consistent with single-family development.
The developer has indicated the lots will be served by a new 600 linear foot
cul-de-sac, Park Circle, extending from Park Avenue, a yet to be constructed
street located to the west of the site, which extends from Western Hills Avenue.
The developer has indicated Lot 1 Block 3 of the Brookside Park Addition will be
reconfigured as right of way to allow Park Avenue to extend into the proposed
plat area.
The developer has indicated the site is adjacent to the floodway and has
indicated a 25-foot access easement adjacent to the floodway for the proposed
lots (Lots 1 – 5) to meet the current ordinance requirement.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The property is located to the east of Brookside Park Addition, a recognized plat
which was platted a number of years ago, and lots sold, but the streets and
infrastructure were never constructed. The Little Rock Board of Directors
approved an Improvement District for the Brookside Park Addition to allow
funding for water, sewer and street construction.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All abutting property owners and the Westwood Neighborhood
Association were notified of the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. The subject property appears to be out of the 100-year floodplain.
2. Western Hills Drive must be constructed to the full width prior to final platting
of the proposed subdivision.
3. A temporary cul-de-sac or turn around must be constructed on the north end
of Parkside Circle until the next phase to the north is constructed.
4. Sidewalks with appropriate handicap ramps are required along Western
Hills Drive and the northern portion of Parkside Circle in accordance with
Section 31-175 of the Little Rock Code and the Master Street Plan.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1495-A
3
5. 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. Site
grading, and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to
the start of construction.
6. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. The project would
qualify for a contribution in-lieu of construction at the time of platting.
7. With the site development, provide the design of street conforming to the
Master Street Plan. Construct street improvement to Western Hills Drive
and Parkside Circle including 5-foot sidewalks with the planned
development.
8. With the site development, provide the design of street conforming to the
Master Street Plan. Construct one-half street improvement to Western Hills
Avenue including 5-foot sidewalks with the planned development.
9. Street Improvement plans shall include signage and striping. Traffic
Engineering must approve completed plans prior to construction.
10. Prepare a letter of pending development addressing streetlights as required
by Section 31-403 of the Little Rock code. Contact Traffic Engineering at
(501) 379-1813 (Steve Philpott) for more information regarding streetlight
requirements.
11. Obtain permits prior to doing any street cuts or curb cuts. Obtain barricade
permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-way. Contact Traffic
Engineering at (501) 379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield) for more information.
12. Due to an identification problem, the street name "Parkside Circle" cannot
be used. The street name Parkside Drive is already used in another part of
the City. Using the street name "Parkside Circle" in no close vicinity to
"Parkside Drive" creates confusion. Contact David Hathcock at 371-4808
for additional information and assistance with this matter.
13. If disturbed area is one (1) or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water
permit from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the
start of construction.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required with easements. Contact the Little
Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: No comment received.
AT & T: No comment received.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1495-A
4
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. Installation of a public
waterline and fire hydrant(s) will 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. Contact Central
Arkansas Water at 377-1225 for additional information.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire
Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: No comment.
Landscape: No comment.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (December 28, 2006)
Mr. Pat McGetrick was present representing the request. Staff stated the
proposed development was a preliminary plat to allow 7.07 acres to be
subdivided into 30 single-family lots. Staff questioned access to the proposed
subdivision and the time frame for construction of the proposed street to serve
the lots. Mr. McGetrick stated Lot 1 Block 3 of the Brookside Park Addition would
be dedicated as right of way to serve the indicated lots. Staff also questioned if
the development would be constructed in phases.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated minimum floor elevations
would be required to be shown on the proposed plat. Staff also stated a
dedication of an access easement adjacent to the floodway would be required
along the rear of abutting the floodway. Staff requested Mr. McGetrick provide
the 100 year floodplain and floodway on the proposed preliminary plat to ensure
compliance with existing ordinance requirements. Staff noted a grading permit
would be issued for right of ways and drainage easements prior to construction.
Staff noted comments from all other reporting departments and agencies
suggesting Mr. McGetrick contact them individually for additional information.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the
item to the full Commission for final action.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1495-A
5
H. ANALYSIS:
The applicant submitted a revised preliminary plat to staff addressing most of the
issues raised at the December 28, 2006, Subdivision Committee meeting. The
applicant has provided the minimum floor elevation for lots abutting the floodplain
and indicated a 25-foot access easement along the rear of the lots abutting the
floodway. The applicant has also provided a letter indicated the proposed street
extending from Western Hills Avenue will be constructed before year end of
2007. The revised plat indicates the lots will be developed in a single phase.
The proposal is to allow the subdivision of a 7.07-acre site into 30 single-family
lots. The proposed plat indicates an average lot size of 60-feet by 120-feet or
7,200 square feet and an overall density of 4.24 units per acre. The
development will be served by a new 600 linear foot cul-de-sac, Park Circle,
extending from Park Avenue, a yet to be constructed street located to the west of
the site, which extends from Western Hills Avenue. Lot 1, Block 3 of the
Brookside Park Addition is proposed to be dedicated as right of way to allow Park
Avenue to extend into the proposed plat area.
Staff is supportive of the proposed preliminary plat. The developer is not seeking
any waivers or variances from the City ordinances to allow the creation of the
subdivision as proposed. The lots are indicated with a minimum lot size of
60-feet by 120-feet adequate to meet the typical minimum requirements of the
subdivision ordinance. To staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding issues
associated with the request. Staff feels the development of the subdivision as
proposed will have minimum impact on the adjoining properties.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the above
agenda staff report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 18, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item requesting a deferral of the item to the March 1, 2007, public
hearing. Staff stated a concern had been raised concerning access to the proposed
plat area. Staff stated they needed additional time to research information provide.
There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1495-A
6
STAFF UPDATE:
Staff is continuing to review deed documents to determine the existing right of way for
Park Circle. Staff will provide the Commission with a full update at the March 1, 2007,
public hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented a recommendation of deferred of the item to the April 12, 2007, public
hearing to allow additional time to resolve staff’s concerns related to the available right
of way for Park Street adjacent to the cemetery property.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: E FILE NO.: S-1554
NAME: Herndon Place Subdivision Preliminary Plat
LOCATION: Located South of Stagecoach Road, East of Herndon Road
DEVELOPER:
RED Land, LLC
9107 North Rodney Parham Road
Little Rock, AR 72205
ENGINEER:
White Daters and Associates
24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 21.65 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 70 FT. NEW STREET: 2,950 LF
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, Single-family
PLANNING DISTRICT: 12 – 65th Street West
CENSUS TRACT: 24.05
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED:
1. A variance to allow Bracey Circle to be constructed to Minor Residential Street
Standard.
2. A variance to allow six foot fences within the required building setback of Lots 6 – 12
Block 1.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is proposing the subdivision of 21.65 acres into 70 single-family
residential lots. A total of 2,950 linear feet of new street is proposed to serve the
new subdivision with access points to Herndon Road. The subdivision is
proposed with reverse frontage lots abutting a new street, Bracey Circle, and
Stagecoach Road. A 10-foot restrictive access easement has been placed along
the rear lot lines of Lots 6 – 12 Block 1 to limit the number of curb cuts to
Stagecoach Road as required by the Subdivision Ordinance for reverse frontage
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1554
2
lots. A 35-foot building setback has been indicated along the rear of these lots to
comply with minimum development standards for lots abutting an arterial
roadway.
The proposed plat indicates the placement of a subdivision identification sign
located at the intersection of Bracey Lane and Herndon Road. The sign is
proposed with a maximum of six feet in height, ten feet in length and a total sign
area not to exceed thirty-two square feet in area. Fencing has been identified
along the rear lot lines of Lots 6 – 12 Block 1, within the required building
setback, not to exceed six feet in height.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is a tree-covered site located at the intersection of Herndon Road and
Stagecoach Road. The Pecan Lake Subdivision is located to the east of the site
and the Greenwood Acres Subdivision is located to the south of the site. Across
Stagecoach Road is a church campus and there is a nursing home located to the
north of the site.
Stagecoach Road has not been constructed to Master Street Plan standard
abutting the proposed subdivision. Presently the roadway is a two lane road with
no sidewalk and open ditches for drainage. Herndon Road also has not been
constructed to Master Street Plan standard abutting the proposed subdivision
with no curb and gutter or sidewalk in place.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All abutting property owners and the Pecan Lake Homeowners
Association, the Tall Timber Homeowners Association and the Stagecoach Dodd
Neighborhood Association were notified of the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. Stagecoach Road is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal
arterial. Dedication of right-of-way to 55 feet from centerline will be required.
2. With the site development, provide the design of the street conforming to
the Master Street Plan. Construct one-half street improvement to
Stagecoach Road including 5-foot sidewalk with the planned development.
3. Street Improvement plans shall include signage and striping. Traffic
Engineering must approve completed plans prior to construction.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1554
3
4. Sidewalks with appropriate handicap ramps are required along Bracey
Circle from Bracey Lane to Bracey Lane in accordance with Section 31-175
of the Little Rock Code and the Master Street Plan.
5. No vehicle parking will be allowed in cul-de-sac.
6. 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. Site
grading and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to
the start of construction.
7. Obtain permits for improvements within State Highway right-of-way from
AHTD, District VI.
8. Prepare a letter of pending development addressing streetlights as required
by Section 31-403 of the Little Rock code. Contact Traffic Engineering at
(501) 379-1813 (Steve Philpott) for more information regarding streetlight
requirements.
9. A Sketch Grading and Drainage Plan will be required to be submitted per
Section 29-186 (e). The plan shows the release of 144.3 cfs discharging in
an existing ditch between 2 houses and into a 24-inch pipe under
Timberside Road. A 24-inch shows to have a capacity less than 30 cfs.
Improvements of the downstream drainage system maybe required. In
addition, show on plan the high water mark of the lake.
10. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property.
11. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the
public right-of-way prior to occupancy.
12. If disturbed area is one (1) or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water
permit from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the
start of construction.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required with easements. Contact the Little
Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: No comment received.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. A Capital Investment Charge
based on the size of connection(s) will apply to this project in addition to normal
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1554
4
charges. Water main extensions will be required in order to provide service to
this property. 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: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire
Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicate CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: No comment.
Landscape: No comment.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (December 28, 2006)
Mr. Joe White was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the item stating there were additional items necessary to complete
the review process. Staff requested Mr. White provide a 35-foot platted building
line for the lots abutting Stagecoach Road. Staff also questioned the purpose of
Tracts A and B and who would be responsible for maintenance of the two tracts.
Staff question if fencing would be placed along the property line for lots abutting
Stagecoach Road. Staff noted the maximum fence height allowed within the
required building setback was four feet. Staff requested Mr. White indicate a
note on the proposed plat if fencing was proposed.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated permits would be required
from the City and the Highway Department prior to street construction. Staff also
stated a grading permit would be required prior to the development of the site.
Staff noted the storm water detention ordinance requirements would apply to the
development of the site.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee
then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
H. ANALYSIS:
The applicant submitted a revised preliminary plat to staff addressing most of the
issues raised at the December 28, 2006, Subdivision Committee meeting. The
revised plat indicates the dedication of right of way on Stagecoach Road per the
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1554
5
Master Street Plan. The plat also indicates the placement of a 35-foot building
line along Stagecoach Road and the placement of a six-foot fence on the
property line for the lots abutting Stagecoach Road. The developer has indicated
a homeowners association will be created and be responsible for maintenance of
the indicated tracts. The tracts will serve as detention storage for the proposed
subdivision. Staff has concerns with the indicated storm water detention and the
pipe capacity exiting the subdivision located on the southeastern portion of the
subdivision. The applicant has indicated they will work with staff during the
design phase of the subdivision to eliminate any potential for down stream
flooding by either increasing the detention storage size, increasing the pipe
capacity located on the southeastern portion of the proposed subdivision,
diverting storm water to the existing lake located to the north of the proposed
subdivision or providing an in-lieu contribution to the City for down stream
maintenance to increase pipe size and capacities of the down stream facilities to
receive the potential run-off.
The proposal is to allow the subdivision of 21.65 acres into 70 single-family
residential lots. A total of 2,950 linear feet of new street is proposed to serve the
new subdivision with access points to Herndon Road. The subdivision is
proposed with reverse frontage lots abutting a new street, Bracey Circle, and
Stagecoach Road. A 10-foot restrictive access easement has been placed
along the rear lot lines of Lots 6 – 12, Block 1 to limit the number of curb cuts to
Stagecoach Road as required by the Subdivision Ordinance for reverse frontage
lots. A 35-foot building setback has also been indicated along the rear of these
lots to comply with minimum development standards for lots abutting an arterial
roadway.
The proposed plat indicates the placement of a subdivision identification sign
located at the intersection of Bracey Lane and Herndon Road. The sign is
proposed with a maximum of six feet in height, ten feet in length and a total sign
area not to exceed thirty-two square feet in area.
The plat includes a variance request for the placement of fencing along the rear
lot lines of Lots 6 – 12, Block 1, within the required building setback, not to
exceed six feet in height. Typically fencing within the required building setback is
allowed at a maximum height of four feet. Staff is supportive of the variance
request. Staff does not feel the placement of a six-foot fence within the required
building setback will impact the development or the area.
Staff is supportive of the proposed preliminary plat. The plat indicates the
creation of 70 lots on this 21.65-acre site resulting in a density of 3.23 units per
acre within the allowable density of single-family development. To staff’s
knowledge there are no outstanding issues associated with the request. Staff
does not feel the creation of the single-family subdivision as proposed will
significantly impact the area.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1554
6
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the above
agenda staff report.
Staff recommends the applicant work with staff during the design phase of the
subdivision to eliminate any potential down stream flooding.
Staff recommends approval of the variance request to allow the placement of a
six-foot fence within the required building setback along Stagecoach Road.
Staff recommends approval of the variance request to allow Bracey circle to be
constructed with a minor residential street standard.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 18, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were registered objectors present. Staff presented
the item with a recommendation of approval of the request subject to compliance with
the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the agenda staff
report.
Mr. Tim Daters addressed the Commission as the applicant. He requested the
Commission allow the opposition to speak first and he would try to address their
concerns.
Ms. Nancy Gambill addressed the Commission with concerns. She stated her home
was located to the north of the proposed development and her concern was with the
water quality of the lake. She stated her background was in hydrology. She stated she
was concerned with construction practices and the detention ordinance. She stated silt
fences did not appear to work and questioned who to call when fences failed or were
not in place.
Ms. Mary Rogers addressed the Commission with concerns. She stated the lake was
the primary asset of the Pecan Lake Subdivision. She stated presently the lake was
having water quality problems and the association was in the process of hiring a firm to
renovate the lake. She stated the lake was important to the youth of the subdivision.
She stated the lake as proposed did not allow an easement around the lake. She
stated the proposed subdivision was located adjacent to the deepest part of the lake.
She requested the Commission defer the item to allow the developers and the
neighborhood to meet and discuss the proposed development and the potential impacts
on the neighborhood lake.
Mr. Daters stated he was willing to defer the item to meet with the neighborhood and
address their concerns.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1554
7
A motion was made to defer the item to the March 1, 2007, public hearing. The motion
carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
Staff and the applicant have meet with the Greenwood Acres Subdivision property
owners and are scheduled to meet with the Pecan Lake Property Owners Association
on February 22, 2007.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were registered objectors present. Staff presented
the item with a recommendation of approval of the request subject to compliance with
the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the above agenda
staff report. Staff also presented a recommendation the applicant work with staff
during the design phase of the subdivision to eliminate any potential down stream
flooding. Staff stated the applicant had indicated they did not propose to add any
drainage area to the 24” pipe to the east or exceed the capacity of the ditch leading to
the pipe. Staff stated the developers would construct sufficient detention on the project
so that the discharge of a 25 year storm did not exceed the capacity of the existing 18”
pipe crossing under Herndon Road.
Staff presented a recommendation of approval of the variance request to allow the
placement of a six foot fence within the required building setback along Stagecoach
Road and the requested variance to allow Bracey Circle to be constructed with a minor
residential street standard.
Mr. Tim Daters addressed the commission on the merits of the request. Mr. Daters
stated the developers were agreeable to creating a tract adjacent to the lots abutting the
lake located to the north of the site and dedicating the tract to the Pecan Lake Property
Owners Association. He stated detention would be provided during the construction
phase to contain any potential runoff and silting to protect the adjacent lake.
Ms. Mary Rogers addressed the Commission in support of the request. She thanked
the Commission for the deferral of the item to allow the developers and the property
owners to work out any potential problems. She stated with the dedication to the
property owners association they were now in full support of the proposed preliminary
plat.
Mr. Bill Greenwood addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He stated
he was developing the subdivision to the south of the proposed site and did not feel the
street was adequate to serve the proposed subdivision along with the currently
approved Greenwood Acres Subdivision. He requested the Commission require the
developers to take access from Stagecoach Road. He stated with the development of
82 lots this would generate a minimum of 164 additional cars on the existing City street.
He stated the subdivision taking access from Herndon Road would require the new
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1554
8
homeowners to travel approximately two City blocks within the Greenwood Acres
Subdivision to access their subdivision. He stated Herndon Road presently had
problems with speeding and felt the additional traffic would only increase the problem of
speeders on the street. He stated with the additional homes a traffic light would be
required to allow residents to exit the subdivision. He stated the subdivision only had
one way in and out which created safety concerns for the existing residents.
Ms. Mary Ann Wilkerson addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. She
stated she was representing the Greenwood Acres Subdivision and the homeowners
were opposed to the additional traffic on the existing City street. She stated the
development should be required to take access from Stagecoach Road or from
Rockwood Road.
Ms. Helen Holmes addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. She stated
Greenwood Acres was a new neighborhood and the safety of the children was her
primary concern. She stated with the current development it was difficult to get in and
out of the subdivision. She stated with the new homes this would only increase this
already difficult situation. She stated she was not opposed to the subdivision, only the
entrance of the subdivision through Greenwood Acres.
Mr. Bruce Martin addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He stated his
concern was the entrance proposed for the new subdivision. He stated with 48 homes
in Greenwood Acres and the addition of 82 homes in the new subdivision traffic would
be increased on the existing street. He requested the developers find a new entrance
to the subdivision.
Mr. Daters stated the entrance was proposed on an existing City street. He stated the
street was a residential street constructed to collector standard. He stated an entrance
from Stagecoach Road would create a sight distance problem for any potential access
point.
Commissioner Laha question if sidewalks would be added to Herndon Road adjacent to
the proposed development. Mr. Daters stated a sidewalk would be added along the
property frontage. Mr. Daters stated the developers would also improve Stagecoach
Road to principal arterial standards for approximately 400 feet along their frontage. He
stated there would be no access to Stagecoach Road from the lots abutting Stagecoach
Road by the placement of a 10-foot restrictive no right of vehicular access easement.
The Commission question staff concerning the placement of an access point on
Stagecoach Road. Staff stated access as proposed was the best location. Staff stated
with the additional right of way a turn lane could be added to get motorist out of the
through traffic to access Herndon Road. Staff also stated Herndon Road was not
classified on the Master Street Plan as a collector street but had been constructed to
collector street standard. The Commission questioned if current traffic counts for
Herndon Road were available. Staff stated current traffic counts were not available.
The Commission questioned who had constructed Herndon Road. Staff stated the
developer of Greenwood Acres had constructed the road to entire width but this was the
developers choice and not a requirement of public works.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
approval of the item. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: F FILE NO.: LA-0015
NAME: Whisenhunt Investments Land Alteration Variance Request
LOCATION: Northwest corner of Chenal Parkway and Kanis Road
APPLICANT: Whisenhunt Investments
APPLICANT’S REPRESENTATIVE: Development Consultants, Inc.
AREA: 4.06 acres
CURRENT ZONING: C3
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: A variance from the Land Alteration
Regulations to advance clear and grade with construction not being imminent.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Applicant is requesting a variance from the Land Alteration Regulations to
advance clear and grade the property with construction not being imminent. The
approximately 4.06 acre property is located on the northwest corner of Chenal
Parkway and western leg of Kanis Road. The applicant desires to clear and fill
the property with excess dirt from the Fellowship Church site and other
undeveloped parcels north of the future extension of Wellington Hills Road.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
This approximately 4.06 acre tree covered C3 zoned property is tract land
located on the northwest corner of Chenal Parkway and the western leg of Kanis
Road. Developed C3 zoned property is located on the west. The Entergy power
substation is located on the northwest. On the north, the property is bordered by
a transmission right-of-way and beyond that right-of-way is tree covered
undeveloped property zoned C3. The property is bordered to the west by Chenal
Parkway and beyond Chenal is tree covered, undeveloped property zoned C3.
Kanis Road is located south of the property and beyond Kanis is tree covered
undeveloped property. Just south of the tree covered undeveloped property is
additional property that will be filled by dirt from the Fellowship Church site off
Kirk Road.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has not received any phone calls or letters asking
questions or requesting additional information.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: F (Cont.) FILE NO.: LA-0015
2
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
1. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit from
the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
2. Hauling of fill material on or off site over municipal streets and roads requires
approval prior to a grading permit being issued. Contact Public Works Traffic
Engineering at 621 S. Broadway, (501) 379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield) for more
information.
3. Tracking of mud and dirt onto City streets is not permissable on city streets.
A tracking pad must be installed at least 250 ft from the Kanis-Chenal
intersection.
4. Erosion controls must be installed to reduce discharge of polluted stormwater.
5. Per Little Rock Code Sec. 29-190(14), a perimeter buffer strip shall be
temporarily maintained around disturbed areas for erosion control purposes
and shall be kept undisturbed except for reasonable access for maintenance.
The width of the strip shall be 6% of the lot width and depth. The minimum
width shall be twenty-five (25) feet and the maximum shall be forty (40) feet.
6. Vegetation must be established on disturbed area within 21 days of
completion of harvest activities.
E. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENTS: (October 5, 2006)
The applicant was present. Staff stated the comments as written above. The
applicant’s representatives, Doug Robertson of Whisenhunt Investments, stated
the clearing and grading will comply with Little Rock code, staff
recommendations, and comments.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the
item to the full Commission for final action.
F. ANALYSIS:
The request is to clear the trees and fill the 4.06 acre property located on the
northwest corner of Chenal Parkway and the western leg of Kanis Road with the
dirt from the Fellowship Church site and the undeveloped parcels north of the
future expansion of Wellington Hills Road. No construction is proposed to
proceed after the filling and grading activities are completed.
The Land Alteration Regulations (Sec. 29-186(b)) specifically state no land
alteration shall be permitted until all necessary city approvals of all plans and
permits, except building permit, have been issued and construction is imminent.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: F (Cont.) FILE NO.: LA-0015
3
Imminent construction as defined by code means the installation of a foundation
or erection of a structure without unreasonable delay following land alteration
activities. With this application, the applicant desires to clear and fill the site but
has no plans for construction to proceed after the grading is completed. Per
code, a grading permit cannot be issued by staff for the clearing and filling
without construction being imminent. The code does provide the Planning
Commission with the authority to grant a variance for issuance of a grading
permit to clear and grade a multi-lot or multi-phase development where
construction is not imminent on all phases of the development.
G. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Even though the applicant has agreed to comply with the Public Works
comments, staff does not support the clearing of additional trees without
imminent construction. The additional clearing and filling does not follow the
purpose of the Land Alteration Regulations (Sec. 29-168). The code states the
purposes are to prevent the excessive grading, clearing, and filling activities and
preserve the natural vegetation which enhances the quality of life of the
community. Prior to adoption of the Land Alteration Regulations, the applicant
cleared and graded about 11 acres south of Chenal Parkway near the Krogers
store that has yet to be developed. Recently, staff supported filling
approximately 21 acres south of Chenal Parkway and about 47 acres north or
Chenal Parkway as part of the Fellowship Church application because they were
nearly treeless. In that same application, staff did not support clearing and filling
of the area adjacent to the southwest corner of Chenal Parkway and the western
leg of Kanis Road because of the existing trees. The applicant’s site plan is
incorrect showing the area adjacent to Kanis Road to be cleared and filled.
Being the subject property has trees, staff believes it should not be cleared and
filled until construction is imminent. The excess dirt can be taken to the previous
approved fill areas.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (OCTOBER 26, 2006)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item indicating applicant had submitted a request
dated October 24, 2006, requesting this item be deferred to the December 7, 2006,
public hearing. Staff stated the deferral request would require a waiver of the
Commission’s By-laws with regard to the late deferral request. Staff stated they were
supportive of the deferral request.
There was no further discussion of the item. A motion was made to waive the
Commission’s By-laws with regard to the late deferral request. The motion carried by a
vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. The chair entertained a motion for placement of
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: F (Cont.) FILE NO.: LA-0015
4
the item on the Consent Agenda for Deferral. The motion carried by a vote of 10 ayes,
0 noes and 1 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
The applicant has not provided staff with the required information to complete the
review process. Staff recommends this item be deferred to the January 18, 2007, public
hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 7, 2006)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item stating the applicant had not provided staff
with the required information to complete the review process. Staff presented a
recommendation of deferral of the item to the January 18, 2007, public hearing.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the Consent Agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
The applicant has told staff that several individuals had contacted them about
developing the property. Staff requested the applicant provide a plan of development
for the property with schedules of when construction would begin. At the time of writing,
a plan of development has not been provided. With this being the case, staff still does
not support the clearing of additional trees on this property without imminent
construction as stated in the previous staff recommendation. The excess dirt can be
taken to the previous approved fill areas.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 18, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item stating the applicant had submitted a
request dated January 8, 2007, requesting the item be deferred to the March 1, 2007,
public hearing. Staff stated they were supportive of the deferral request.
There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: F (Cont.) FILE NO.: LA-0015
5
STAFF UPDATE:
There has been no change in this application request since the previous public hearing.
Staff continues to recommend denial of the request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was not present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
stated on February 28, 2007, the applicant submitted a request for a deferral of the item
to the April 12, 2007, public hearing. Staff stated the deferral would require a waiver of
the Commission’s By-laws with regard to the late deferral request. Staff stated they
were supportive of the deferral request.
A motion was made to waive the Commission’s By-laws with regard to the late deferral
request. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent. A motion was
made to place the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: G
Name: Midtown Design Overlay District
Location: Along Markham and University Avenues
Request: Modifications to the Design Overlay District
Source: Staff, Midtown Redevelopment Advisory Board
PROPOSAL / REQUEST:
This is a request to update and revise the Midtown Design Overlay District as
the result of efforts related to the “Statement of Design and Programming
Expectation”. This document was developed by the Midtown Redevelopment
District #1 Advisory Board with a resolution of support by the Little Rock Board of
Directors (resolution 12,396 of December 5, 2006). The Midtown Advisory Board
working with Staff has reviewed the existing overlay regulations and suggests
changes in order to help implement the ‘Statement’.
The Midtown Design Overlay District was originally approved with Ordinance
19004 on December 2, 2003. This was after a several month process where a
group of interested citizens, taking the work done by the Urban Land Institute
(ULI) and presented in the Midtown report (2001), attempted to draft a Design
Overlay District as a tool to help implement the report. The creation of the
Midtown Redevelopment District #1 and the Advisory Board for the district were
other efforts of the adhoc group to implement the ULI report.
The Midtown Advisory Board wishes to assure that any new development or
redevelopment meets the vision presented in the ‘Statement of Design and
Programming Expectations’. They believe that this document is a further
refinement of the original ULI study. After some initial discussions, it was
decided that something additional was needed. Staff reviewed the various
proposals with the consultant (the Jamison Group) working with the Midtown
Advisory Board.
It was felt that a revision to the existing Midtown Design Overlay District was the
best approach. The consultant and staff developed suggested revisions to the
Overlay and presented these to the Midtown Advisory Board. The Board met
twice in January to discuss the Design Overlay District (DOD) issue – January 12
and January 26, 2007. These were both public meetings where citizens were
present.
Staff completed a mailing to all the potentially effected property owners in
mid-January, 2007. This was to notify over 227 owners of this meeting before
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: G (Cont.)
2
the Little Rock Planning Commission. The efforts to revise the DOD have been
made under a tight timeframe in order to meet the time constraints of a
moratorium placed on a large part of the existing overlay area. This moratorium
was enacted by the Little Rock Board of Directors to allow time for the
development of needed rules for future development and redevelopment of the
area.
On Friday January 12, 2007 the Midtown Advisory Board reviewed each section
of a revised Design Overlay District for the Midtown area. This review included
additions, deletions and modifications. From the comments made at that
meeting further revisions were made and presented to the Advisory Board at
their January 26, 2007 meeting. A few minor revisions were made at the meeting
and the Advisory Board voted unanimously to recommend the approval of the
changes to the Midtown Design Overlay District.
Copies of a ‘mark-up’ of the Midtown Design Overlay District were placed on the
City website on January 26, 2007 for property owners and others to review. This
same document is attached for the Planning Commission to see the proposed
changes to the Design Overlay District. In addition, the ‘Statement of Design and
Programming Exceptions’ is included for your assistance.
The changes to the Overlay are designed to make it responsive to the ‘Statement
of Design and Programming Expectations’ and to further refine it. The ‘large
building’ section of the Midtown DOD is removed with the requirements of that
sub-section placed on all buildings and sites. A bonus section for building height
has been added (based on the Urban Use classification). This is to encourage
mixed use and provide an incentive. The projections section and some
streetscape elements of the River Market DOD are added to the Midtown DOD
to further encourage pedestrian oriented development. Addition elements on
linkage and sidewalks are also added for this purpose.
A new section on lighting is included to make the overlay easier to use. The
boundaries of the DOD have been expanded to include the entire redevelopment
district. The current boundaries include only a portion of the redevelopment
district. Due to this addition along Markham and University, a sub-section for
‘small buildings’ was added. After some discussion the exception process was
changed for going to the Board of Adjustment to using a Planned Zoning District
(PZD). This is currently used by many of the existing DODs.
A new section ‘Development Process’ was added. This section requires a PZD
for any new development whether it meets the DOD standards or not. It also
requires any redevelopment that makes an addition of area of 50 percent or
more, or where the addition is more than 50 percent the replacement value use a
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: G (Cont.)
3
PZD. This is required even if the redevelopment meets the other requirements of
the DOD. (Interior alterations, maintenance and routine repairs are exempted)
This section also sets requirements for mixed developments, if the area added is
greater than 100,000 square feet.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approval
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (FEBRUARY 15, 2007)
Mr. Craig Berry, chairman of the Midtown Redevelopment District Board asked
that the item be deferred to discuss an issue with a major property owner. The
Item was deferred to March 1 by a vote of 7 for, 0 against, 1 recuse (Yates) and
3 absent (Allen, Rahman, Stebbins).
STAFF UPDATE:
The Midtown Advisory Board shall review possible modifications to the overlay
including a boundary change and exemption of single-family use and zoning land
at their February 23, 2007 meeting.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The item was placed on consent agenda for deferral to April 12, 2007 at the
request of Staff and The Midtown Advisory Board. The consent agenda was
approved by a vote of 9 for, 0 against and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 1 FILE NO.: S-46-DD
NAME: Overlook Revised Preliminary Plat
LOCATION: Located on Overlook, North of Overlook Circle
DEVELOPER:
Overlook Partners
1319 Tower Building
Little Rock, AR 72201
ENGINEER:
White-Daters and Associates
24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 3.86 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 4 FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, Single-family
PLANNING DISTRICT: 3 – West Little Rock
CENSUS TRACT: 22.01
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is proposing the subdivision of this 3.86 acre site into four single-
family residential lots. All lots have public street frontage along Overlook Drive.
A single access point to Overlook Drive is proposed with the lots being served by
a common access and utility easement. The proposal includes the development
of the lots utilizing the Hillside Development Standards, Division 8, of the
Subdivision Ordinance. The lots are indicated with a slope in excess of 18
percent (Section 31-367) and a lot area in excess of 10,000 square feet (Section
31-369(d)). The proposed preliminary plat indicates the placement of a 15-foot
building line adjacent to Overlook Drive as allowed in Section 31-371.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-46-DD
2
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site, previously a park site, is extremely steep, sloping downward to the
north. There is a single drive extending from Overlook into the site. Adjacent to
the northern property line is a railroad spur serving the Riverdale area and
downtown. Rebsamen Park and the newly constructed pedestrian bridge
crossing the Arkansas River atop Murray Lock and Dam are located north of the
railroad spur. To the east of the site a preliminary plat was recently approved to
allow the development of two single-family homes. To the south of the site are
single-family homes located on large lots; many developed on lots with a similar
topography to the lots being proposed.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. The Overlook Property Owners Association and all abutting property
owners were notified of the Public Hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. Turn around must be provided for a WB-30 vehicle attempting to enter
development. A stacking distance of at least 30 feet from street curb line
must also be provided. The call box median should be redesigned to improve
vehicle access. Contact Bill Henry, Traffic Engineering, at 379-1816 for
additional assistance.
2. No residential waste collection service will be provided on private streets
unless the property owners association provides a waiver of damage claims
for operations on private property.
3. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit from
the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
4. Private access is proposed for these lots. In accordance with Section 31-207,
private streets must be designed to the same standards as public streets. A
minimum access easement width of 45 feet is required and street width of
24 feet from back of curb to back of curb.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-46-DD
3
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this property. Contact Little Rock Wastewater at
688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. Additional fire hydrant(s) will
be required. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department to obtain information
regarding the required placement of the hydrant(s) and contact Central Arkansas
Water regarding procedures for installation of the hydrant(s). 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: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: No comment.
Landscape: No comment.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented the item
stating there were few outstanding issues associated with the request. Staff
requested the applicant provide the average slope of the indicated lots, the
source of title of the landowner in the general notes section of the proposed
preliminary plat and the minimum lot size in the general notes section of the
proposed preliminary plat. Staff requested the applicant provide a note
concerning garbage collection in the general notes section of the proposed
preliminary plat.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-46-DD
4
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated garbage collection would
not be provided on the access and utility easement unless the property owner
signed a waiver of damage claims for operations on private property. Staff stated
the gate turn around should provide for a WB-30 vehicle attempting to enter the
development and a stacking distance of at least 30 feet from street curb line.
Staff stated the call box median should be redesigned to improve vehicle access.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. 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 most of the issues
raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The revised
preliminary plat indicates the average slope of the indicated lots, the source of
title of the landowner and the minimum lot size proposed in the general notes
section. The location for garbage collection has also been indicated.
The request is to allow the subdivision of 3.86 acres into four (4) single-family
residential lots. All the lots have public street frontage along Overlook Drive. A
single access point to Overlook Drive is proposed with the lots being served by a
45-foot common access and utility easement. The proposal includes the
development of the lots utilizing the Hillside Development Standards, Division 8,
of the Subdivision Ordinance. The lots are indicated with a slope in excess of
18 percent (Section 31-367) and a lot area in excess of 10,000 square feet
(Section 31-369(d). The lots have slopes averaging 37 percent to 43 percent.
The proposed preliminary plat indicates the placement of a 15-foot building line
adjacent to Overlook Drive as allowed in Section 31-371.
Staff is supportive of the request. To staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding
issues associated with the request. Staff feels the development of the single-
family homes as proposed with lots ranging in size from 0.73 acres to 1.3 acres
should have minimal impact on the adjoining properties.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the above
agenda staff report.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-46-DD
5
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the request subject to
compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of
the above agenda staff report.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 2 FILE NO.: S-1415-C
NAME: Bowman Kanis Retail Center Preliminary Plat
LOCATION: Located on the Northwest corner of Kanis and Bowman Roads
DEVELOPER:
USA Drug
3017 North Midland Drive
Pine Bluff, AR 71603
ENGINEER:
White-Daters and Associates
#24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 13.9 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 7 FT. NEW STREET: 0
CURRENT ZONING: C-3, General Commercial District, with conditions and PCD
PLANNING DISTRICT: 18 – Ellis Mountain Planning District
CENSUS TRACT: 42.10
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED:
1. A variance from the Land Alteration Ordinance to allow advanced grading of the plat
area with the development of the first lot.
2. A variance from the Land Alteration Ordinance to allow an increased cut slope along
the western property line up to 40 feet vertical.
3. A variance from the Subdivision Ordinance to allow the creation of a lot without
public street frontage. (Section 31-231)
BACKGROUND:
On October 20, 1998, the Little Rock Board of Directors adopted Ordinance No. 17,850
rezoning an 11.25-acre tract to O-3 and C-3 on the northwest corner of Kanis and
Bowman Roads. The proposal included the development of the site with a 300 foot by
150 foot no build area at the intersection of Kanis and Bowman Roads. The site had
limited driveways onto Kanis Road. The eastern drive, located approximately 200-feet
west of the Kanis/Bowman Road intersection, was proposed as a right-turn exit only.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1415-C
2
The western driveway, located approximately 300 feet west of the Kanis/Bowman
intersection, was to be a service entrance/exit only. The approval also limited the
permitted uses to those listed in the “C-2” Shopping Center District.
A proposal which included this tract of land was reviewed and approved by the
Commission on March 20, 2003, but was not forwarded to the Board of Directors for
final action. The applicant proposed to rezone the site from various zoning
classifications to PCD to allow the development of a home center on the site.
Ordinance No. 18,985 adopted November 18, 2003, established the Bowman and Kanis
Retail Center Long-form PCD. The applicant proposed a seven-lot plat through the
Planned Development process. Lots 1 - 6 were zoned C-3, General Commercial and
Lot 7 was zoned O-3, General Office. The applicant proposed a USA Drug to locate on
Lot 1 (an allowable use under the C-3 zoning classification) but the building was
proposed to be located within the area previously approved as a no-build zone (300-foot
by 150-foot). The applicant indicated only one lot would be developed under the
proposed development plan and requested Lot 1 be designated with PCD zoning (with
C-3 uses as alternative uses) retaining the C-3 and O-3 zoning on the other six lots.
Ordinance No. 19,124 revoked the PCD zoning classification restoring the previously
held R-2, O-3 and C-3 zoning classification. The revocation request was considered by
the Little Rock Planning Commission at their May 6, 2004, public hearing and the Little
Rock Board of Directors adopted the revocation ordinance at their June 15, 2004, public
hearing.
On October 7, 2004, a site plan review was approved by the Planning Commission to
allow the construction of a 16,500 square foot retail building along with 117 parking
spaces. Four gas pumps and a kiosk were proposed necessitating the site plan review
process. The site plan included the placement of a 300-foot by 150-foot “no build area”
as required per the zoning.
On January 5, 2006, the Commission approved two requests for the 11.85-acre tract.
One request allowed the rezoning of a portion of the site to PCD and the second to
rezone a portion of the site to C-3, with conditions. A two-lot plat was also approved as
a part of the development plan.
Proposed Lot 1 would remain zoned C-3, with conditions allowing a reduction in the
previously imposed no build area. The approval allowed future development to be
construct nearer the “hard corner” of Kanis and Bowman Roads. The original approval
required a 150-foot by 300-foot no build area and the rezoning reduced the no build
area to 90-feet by 200-feet. The Board of Directors approved this request by the
adoption of Ordinance No. 19,477 on February 7, 2006.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1415-C
3
Lot 2 was rezoned from R-2, O-3 and C-3 to PCD. Lot 2 was proposed for the
development with a retail shopping center containing 123,860 square feet and a total of
617 parking spaces. The Board of Directors adopted Ordinance No. 19,479 on
February 7, 2006, establishing Bowman Kanis Retail Center Long-form PCD.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is seeking approval of a preliminary plat for this site to allow the
creation of a seven lot plat with shared driveways and a common access
easement on the common lot line of Lots 2 and 3 and the common lot line of Lots
3, 4 and 5. The driveways will allow access to Lot 6, a lot being created without
public street frontage. Lot 6 will require a variance from the Subdivision
Ordinance (Section 31-231) to allow the creation of a lot without public street
frontage. Private agreements will be made between the various lots owners to
provide cross access and parking within the development.
The request includes a variance from the Land Alteration Ordinance to allow
advanced grading of the plat area with the development of the first lot and a
variance from the Land Alteration Ordinance to allow an increased cut slope
along the western property line up to 40 feet vertical.
As separate items on this agenda the applicant is requesting a revocation of the
current PCD zoning (Z-6554-E) and a rezoning request (Z-6554-F) from R-2, O-3
and C-3 to C-3 and O-3.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The property is located in an area of mixed zoning and extremely varied uses.
The intensely commercial Chenal Parkway/Bowman Road intersection is directly
north of the site. Uses in this area include a wide variety of retail commercial
businesses such as Sam’s, Wal-Mart, Garden Ridge and Best Buy. Across
Bowman, at the northeast corner of Kanis and Bowman Road is a PCD, which
has developed as an office/warehouse/retail center. The C-3 and PCD zoned
properties to the south; contain a variety of uses including offices,
office/warehouse and mini-warehouses. The area to the west of the site is
vacant and currently zoned POD.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All owners of property located within 200-feet of the site, the John
Barrow Neighborhood Association and the Gibralter Heights/Point West/Timber
Ridge Neighborhood Association were notified of the public hearing.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1415-C
4
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. Kanis Road and Bowman Road are classified on the Master Street Plan as
minor arterials. A dedication of right-of-way 45 feet from centerline will be
required for each street. At minor arterial intersections, an additional 10 feet
of right-of-way measured from the centerline of the right-of-way, for a right
turn lane shall be dedicated. This additional right-of-way shall normally be
250 feet in length measured from the intersecting right-of-way.
2. A 20 foot radial dedication of right-of-way is required at the intersection of
Bowman Road and Kanis Road.
3. With site development, provide the design of the street conforming to the
Master Street Plan. Construct one-half street improvements to these streets
including 5-foot sidewalk with the planned development. The street
improvements shown on the plan appear to be acceptable. Dual left turn
lanes are required to be provided at the intersection on Kanis Road and
Bowman Road each providing at least 150 feet for vehicle stacking.
4. 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. Site
grading, and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to
the start of construction.
5. A variance is required to be approved by the Planning Commission since
the height of proposed cut exceeds the 30-foot cut/fill limit as required by
the Land Alteration Regulations. The proposed cut is shown to be about 40
feet with 4 natural rock terraces or 3 block retaining walls. Per the Land
Alteration Regulations, evergreen plants are required to be planted along
the flat portion of the terrace.
6. Plans of all work in right-of-way shall be submitted for approval prior to start
of work. Obtain barricade permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-way
from Traffic Engineering at (501) 379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield).
7. Street Improvement plans shall include signage and striping. Traffic
Engineering must approve completed plans prior to construction.
8. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit
from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
9. Driveway locations and widths must meet the traffic access and circulation
requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. The width of driveway must
not exceed 36 feet. The northern driveway on Bowman Road creates left
turn conflicts with the Creekwood Plaza driveway across the street and must
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1415-C
5
be relocated. The minimum driveway spacing on minor arterial streets is
300 feet.
10. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the
proposed location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
11. Coordinate design of traffic signal upgrade with proposed street
improvements. Plans to be forwarded to Traffic Engineering for approval.
12. Hauling of fill material on or off site over municipal streets and roads
requires approval prior to a grading permit being issued. Contact Public
Works Traffic Engineering at 621 S. Broadway, (501) 379-1817 (Derrick
Bergfield) for more information.
13. Driveway locations and widths must meet the traffic access and circulation
requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. The width of driveway must
not exceed 36 feet. The western driveway on Kanis Road creates left turn
conflicts with Cherrybrook Drive and must be moved. The minimum
driveway spacing on minor arterial streets is 300 feet.
14. Prepare a letter of pending development addressing streetlights as required
by Section 31-403 of the Little Rock code. Contact Traffic Engineering at
(501) 379-1813 (Steve Philpott) for more information regarding street light
requirements.
15. Provide a sketch grading and drainage plan for this site.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required with easement for Lot 6. Contact
Little Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: Easements are required along South Bowman Road. Contact Entergy
for additional information concerning the total width of the easement required.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. A water main extension,
on-site fire line(s) and additional fire hydrant(s) will be required in order to provide
service to this property. 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. A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of
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
systems. This development will have minor impact on existing water distribution
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1415-C
6
system. Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate pressure and
fire protection.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire
Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: No comment.
Landscape: No comment.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed development indicating there were three separate
items associated with the request on the Commission’s agenda. Staff stated the
items were a revocation, a rezoning and a preliminary plat request. Staff noted
there were a few outstanding issues associated with the request. Staff stated
Lots 3 and 4 should indicate the previously zoned no build area of 90-feet by
200-feet.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated the proposed driveway
locations and widths must meet the traffic access and circulation requirements of
Sections 30-43 and 31-210. Staff stated the width of driveway must not exceed
36 feet. Staff stated the northern driveway on Bowman Road created left turn
conflicts with the Creekwood Plaza driveway across the street. Staff stated the
drive should be relocated to eliminate this conflicting movement. Staff stated the
western driveway on Kanis Road created left turn conflicts with Cherrybrook
Drive and should also be moved.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee
then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
H. ANALYSIS:
The applicant submitted a revised preliminary plat to staff addressing most of the
issues raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The
applicant has indicated the no build area as conditioned by the zoning of the site,
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1415-C
7
relocated the indicated drive along South Bowman Road and indicated the
access and circulation to meet typical minimum ordinance standards. The
applicant has not realigned the driveway on Kanis Road to eliminate conflicts
with Cherrybrook Drive. Staff indicated previously staff feels the drive should be
realigned to eliminate potential conflicts.
The applicant is seeking approval of a preliminary plat for this site to allow the
creation of a seven lot plat with shared driveways and a common access and
utility easements on the common lot line of Lots 2 and 3 and the common lot line
of Lots 3, 4 and 5. The driveways will allow access to Lot 6, a lot being created
without public street frontage. Lot 6 requires a variance from the Subdivision
Ordinance (Section 31-231) to allow the creation of a lot without public street
frontage. Private agreements through the Bill of Assurance will be made
between the various lots owners to provide cross access and parking within the
development. Staff is supportive of the variance request. The development is
proposed to create a shopping center environment with multiple uses within the
proposed subdivision.
The request includes a variance from the Land Alteration Ordinance to allow
advanced grading of the plat area with the development of the first lot and a
variance from the Land Alteration Ordinance to allow an increased cut slope
along the western property line up to 40 feet vertical. Staff is supportive of this
variance request. According to the applicant the grading is most practical in this
manner to eliminate the need to haul out large amounts of dirt from development
of a few of the lots and the haul in dirt for the development of the other lots.
Staff is supportive of the applicant’s request. There are separate items on this
agenda requesting a revocation of the current PCD zoning (Z-6554-E) and a
rezoning request (Z-6554-F) from R-2, O-3 and C-3 to C-3 and O-3. The site is
located at the intersection of two minor arterial streets. Staff feels it is
reasonable to create a commercial subdivision at this intersection. At the time of
development the access and utility easements will be required to comply with the
minimum requirements as stated in Section 31-210(g) Access and Circulation of
the Subdivision Ordinance. To staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding
issues. Staff feels the creation of a commercial and office subdivision at this
intersection should have minimal impact on the area and the adjoining properties.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the proposed preliminary plat subject to
compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E, F
and H of the above agenda staff report.
Staff recommends approval of the variance request to allow the creation of a lot
without public street frontage.
Staff recommends the driveway on Kanis Road be realigned to reduce traffic
conflicts with the nearby City street, Cherrybrook Drive.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1415-C
8
Staff recommends approval of the variance request from the Land Alteration
Ordinance to allow advanced grading of the proposed subdivision with the
development of the first lot of the subdivision and the variance request to allow
an increased wall height along the western perimeter.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the request subject to
compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E, F and H
of the above agenda staff report. Staff presented a recommendation of approval of the
variance request to allow the creation of a lot without public street frontage. Staff also
presented a recommendation the driveway on Kanis Road and Bowman Road be
realigned to reduce traffic conflicts with the nearby City streets and adjoining driveways.
Staff presented a recommendation of approval of the variance request from the Land
Alteration Ordinance to allow advanced grading of the proposed subdivision with the
development of the first lot of the subdivision and the variance request to allow an
increased wall height along the western perimeter.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 3 FILE NO.: S-1433-A
NAME: Foreman Lake Garden Addition Preliminary Plat
LOCATION: Located on Leatrice and Alberta Drives
DEVELOPER:
Dr. William Humphrey
11215 Herritage Road
Little Rock, AR 72211
ENGINEER:
White Daters and Associates
#24 Rahling circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 1.4 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 2 FT. NEW STREET: 0
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, Single-family
PLANNING DISTRICT: 3 – West Little Rock
CENSUS TRACT: 22.03
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED:
1. A variance from the Subdivision Ordinance to allow the development of lots utilizing
private streets (Section 31-207).
BACKGROUND:
On June 3, 2004, the Little Rock Planning Commission approved a preliminary plat for
this site. The property contained 1.4 acres located at the southwest corner of Leatrice
Drive and Alberta Drive. The approval allowed the owner to develop two lots on the
property. The request included a variance from the Subdivision Ordinance to allow the
development of the lots with a private street. A driveway would be constructed along
the rear of the lots for access to Lot 2. The lots averaged 80-feet by 160-feet or 12,800
square feet. A forty-foot front platted building line was indicated adjacent to the private
street.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1433-A
2
Per Section 31-94(e) a preliminary plat approved by the Little Rock Planning
Commission shall be effective and binding upon the Commission for two (2) years from
the date of approval or as long as work is actively progressing, at the end of which time
the final plat application for the subdivision must have been submitted to the planning
staff. Any plat not receiving final approval within the period of time set forth herein or
otherwise conforming to the requirements of the ordinance shall be null and void, and
the developer shall be required to submit a new plat of the property for preliminary
approval subject to all zoning restrictions and the subdivision ordinance. The approved
preliminary plat has expired and the owners are now proposing to reestablish the
previously approved plat.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is now proposing to reestablish the previously approved
preliminary plat. The site contains 1.4 acres and is proposed with the
development of two lots for single-family homes and a tract. As with the original
submission the application includes a variance to allow the lots to be developed
with private streets. A private drive will also be constructed along the rear of Lot
1 for driveway access to both lots.
The developer is requesting an in-lieu contribution for storm water detention.
Tract A will be included with the plat area and will be used for a drainage
easement.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is vacant with a scattering of trees. There are single-family homes in the
area located around a large lake. The uses to the north, south, east and west
are single-family residences. Lake Shore Drive is a private street ending in a
hammer head south of this site.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. All abutting property owners were notified of the public hearing. There
is not an active neighborhood association located in the area.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. East Shore Drive is a private access easement that is not maintained by the
City. The new plat should label the proposed driveway easement as a private
access easement.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1433-A
3
2. No residential waste collection service will be provided on private streets
unless the property owners association provides a waiver of damage claims
for operations on private property.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required with easements. Contact Little
Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. A water main extension and
additional fire hydrant(s) will be required in order to provide service to this
property. 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: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire
Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: No comment.
Landscape: No comment.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
Mr. Joe White was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed preliminary plat indicating there were additional items
necessary to complete the review. Staff requested the applicant provide the
name/address and source of title of the landowner and the zoning classification
of the proposed preliminary plat area.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated Shore Drive was a private
access easement that was not maintained by the City. Staff stated private
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1433-A
4
streets should be constructed to public street standard. Staff stated the revised
plat should label the proposed driveway easement as a private access
easement. Staff also stated no residential waste collection service would be
provided on the private street unless the property owners association provided a
waiver of damage claims for operations on private property.
Staff noted comments from the other reporting departments and agencies
suggesting the applicant contact them individually for additional clarification.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the
item to the full Commission for final action.
H. ANALYSIS:
The applicant submitted a revised plan to staff addressing most of the issues
raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The applicant
has indicated the roadway as a private access and utility easement. The
applicant has also provided the name/address of the owner along with the source
of title of the landowner on the proposed preliminary plat. The zoning
classification, R-2, Single-family, has been added to the proposed plat.
The property contains 1.4 acres located at the southwest corner of Leatrice Drive
and Alberta Drive. The request is to develop two lots from a previously indicated
lot located in the Lakeside Heights Subdivision. The request includes a variance
from the Subdivision Ordinance to allow the development of the lots with private
streets. The applicant has indicated a thirty-foot driveway easement across the
rear of Lot 1 to serve Lot 2. The drive will be located in this area to eliminate the
need for a driveway along Lake Shore Drive.
The applicant has indicated the lots will average 80-feet by 160-feet or 12,800
square feet. A forty-foot front platted building line has been included adjacent to
the private street.
Staff is supportive of the proposed preliminary plat. The requested lot size and
development of lots on private streets is consistent with development in the area.
To staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding issues associated with the
proposed request.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
conditions outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the above report.
Staff recommends approval of the requested variance to allow the lots to develop
with private streets.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1433-A
5
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were registered objectors present. Staff presented
the item with a recommendation of approval of the request subject to compliance with
the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the above agenda
staff report. Staff also presented a recommendation of approval of the requested
variance to allow the lots to develop with private streets.
Mr. Brad Walker was present representing the owner. He stated the developers were
requesting approval of a previously approved development. He stated the proposal was
the exact proposal the Commission had approved three years ago.
Mr. Tom Clark addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He stated his
property was located to the east of the site and he had concerns with drainage, loss of
property values and privacy. He stated his neighbor was also opposed to the
development but could not be present at the meeting. He stated the Commission had
received a letter from his neighbor Mr. Samuel Gates outlining the concerns. Mr. Clark
stated his property and Mr. Gates property drained through the site proposed for
development and presently there was a large amount of water running through their
properties. He stated with the development of the driveway along the rear portion of the
property this would remove the natural drain and cause flooding concerns for him and
Mr. Gates. He stated the development would also create concerns for Foreman Lake.
He stated the existing private drive was only eight feet wide and did not allow sufficient
access for the fire department and City trash collection. He stated the developers
should be required to bring the private drive up to a public standard or a minimum
paving width as required by the fire department. He stated he felt if the developer was
proposing the development of the site he should do so without any variances.
The Commission stated the development could not create any additional flooding
problems in the area. The Commission stated the drive could not create a dam and
flood the adjoining properties.
Mr. Walker stated he did appreciate the comments made by Mr. Clark. He stated the
site was lower than Mr. Clark’s property and would not create any additional flooding
problems. He stated the site had a 45-foot vertical fall. He stated the Commission did
right three years ago by approving the development and requested the Commission
approve the request once again.
The Commission questioned why the development did not occur with the previous
approval. Mr. Joe White stated previously the owner had a buyer for the property and
this time the owner was going to develop the site himself.
There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for
approval of the item. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 4 FILE NO.: S-1556
NAME: Wise Subdivision Preliminary Plat
LOCATION: Located at 10329 Mann Road
DEVELOPER:
Marcos Wise
10329 Mann Road
Little Rock, AR 72209
ENGINEER:
Marlar Engineering
5318 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
North Little Rock, AR 72116
AREA: 1.42 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 8 FT. NEW STREET: 210 LF
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, Single-family
PLANNING DISTRICT: 15 – Geyer Springs West
CENSUS TRACT: 41.05
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
The applicant failed to provide staff with the requested information to move this
proposed plat forward. Staff recommends a deferral of the item to the April 12, 2007,
public hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was not present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item stating the applicant had failed to provide staff with the requested
information to move this proposed plat forward. Staff presented a recommendation of
deferral of the item to the April 12, 2007, public hearing.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 5 FILE NO.: Z-4411-G
NAME: Pleasant Ridge Towne Center Revised Long-form PCD
LOCATION: Located on the Southeast corner of Cantrell Road and Pleasant
Ridge Road
DEVELOPER:
Pleasant Ridge Development LLC
11601 Pleasant Ridge Road
Little Rock, AR 72212
ENGINEER:
White Daters and Associates
#24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 27.0+ acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 5 FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: PCD
ALLOWED USES: Shopping Center
PROPOSED ZONING: Revised PCD
PROPOSED USE: Shopping Center - Allow additional building signage.
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
On December 20, 1994, through Ordinance No. 16,808, the City Board of Directors
approved a PCD that would allow the development of a mixed use “Neighborhood
Commercial” shopping center and an accompanying office development. The site was
a 12.83 acre-tract and of the area, 11.48 acres was proposed to be developed as the
shopping center. The proposed structure was 97,680 square feet, and 463 parking
spaces were indicated. A 1.35-acre tract was to have 10,000 square feet of office
building space with an additional 50 parking spaces. The uses proposed for the
shopping center were all by-right C-2 and C-3 zoning district, except that there were to
be no service stations, auto glass or muffler shops, convenience stores, or car washes
within the scope of the PCD. The uses proposed for the office building were all uses by
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-4411-G
2
right in the O-2 and O-3 zoning district. The applicant proposed the development of
this 0.27-acre tract as a convenience store with gas pumps.
On January 9, 1997, the Commission reviewed a request for a change in the right-of-
way dedication and street improvement requirement to Fairview Road. The developer
requested all right-of-way dedication and street improvements be taken from the
property located to the east of Fairview Road. The Board of Directors adopted
Ordinance No. 17,331 on December 3, 1996, which allowed a five-year deferral of street
improvements (or until development of the Pleasant Ridge Square PCD) to Fairview
Road.
The Little Rock Planning Commission granted a three-year time extension for the
proposed submission of the final development plan at their December 22, 1997, Public
Hearing. The applicant submitted a Final Development Plan for the Pleasant Ridge
Square Long-form PCD, which was approved on February 1, 2002.
The Little Rock Board of Directors adopted Ordinance No. 19,233 on November 9,
2004, establishing a revision to the Pleasant Ridge Town Center PCD. The
development is proposed as a 300,000 square foot retail center with restaurant space
developed as a “Life-style Center”. The approval allowed the creation of three lots.
Ordinance No. 19,281 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on February 15,
2005, revised the previously approved PCD to allow Coulson Oil to add an additional
driveway to the site and adjust the southern property line. The site plan indicated the
drive would be added to the southwestern corner of the property to adjoin to the
proposed driveway for Pleasant Ridge Town Center. The applicant indicated with the
adjustment, the existing Coulson PCD would function more appropriately with the
approved Pleasant Ridge Town Center site plan. Coulson Oil also proposed the sale of
a portion of their lot to the Pleasant Ridge Town Center along the southern perimeter.
The sale of the property resulted in a rear yard buffer and landscape strip that was less
than the typical minimum required per the Highway 10 Design Overlay District. The
applicant stated with the approval of the Pleasant Ridge Town Center PCD, the reduced
rear yard buffer appeared more reasonable since PCD zonings abutted one another.
The Board of Directors adopted an ordinance on November 21, 2006, revising the
previously approved PCD for the shopping center to allow the creation of two additional
lots for the Pleasant Ridge Town Center. The previous approval allowed for the
creation of three lots which have been final platted. The developer proposed the
placement of the two additional lots along Cantrell Road within the area identified as
future restaurant sites. According to the applicant the restaurant out-parcels were
needed to allow the transfer of property to prospective tenants. The approval brought
the total available lots on the site to five. There were no other modifications proposed to
the previous approval.
On December 7, 2006 the Little Rock Planning Commission denied a request to allow
the western-most drive located along Cantrell Road to become a full service
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-4411-G
3
intersection. The denial of the request has been appealed to the Board of Directors and
is scheduled to be heard on February 20, 2006. No other modifications were proposed
to the previous approval.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is now proposing to revise the previously approved PCD to allow
additional sign locations within the development. The request is to allow building
signage located on the portion of the flat wall located on the northeast corner and
northwest corner of the center building. No other modifications to the approved
site plan are proposed with the proposed revision to the PCD.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is currently under construction for the shopping center with the internal
“shell buildings” completed and “tenant finish out” underway. A large portion of
the paving and landscaping has been installed with the exception of the
restaurant out-parcels adjacent to Cantrell Road. These areas have been
cleared and grading has taken place but no building construction has begun.
The western-most drive located on Cantrell Road is a right-in, right-out only
intersection and the main entrance drive allows for left turns from the shopping
center along Cantrell Road.
There is a single-family home located across Woodland Heights Road on R-2,
Single-family zoned property. Office uses located on O-3, General Office District
zoned property are located to the east and north of the site. There is a church
located to the northeast and a City of Little Rock fire station to the northwest.
The Walton Heights Subdivision is also located to the north.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received a number of informational phone calls from
area residents. All property owners located within 200-feet of the site, all
residents located within 300-feet of the site, who could be identified, along with
the Walton Heights-Candlewood Property Owners Association, the Pleasant
Forest Neighborhood Association, the Piedmont Property Owners Association
and the Pleasant Valley Property Owners Association were notified of the public
hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
No comment.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-4411-G
4
E. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was not present. Staff presented an overview of the request
indicating there were no outstanding issues associated with the request. Staff
stated the request included a modification to the existing signage plan for the
shopping center. Staff stated there were no other modifications of the approved
site plan proposed. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee
then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
F. ANALYSIS:
There were no technical issues remaining from the February 8, 2007, Subdivision
Committee meeting which needed addressing. The applicant is proposing a
revision to the approved PCD to allow additional signage to be included on the
approved site plan. The request includes the placement of signage along the flat
portion of the wall located at the northeast corner and northwest corner of the
center building. Staff is supportive of the allowance of the additional signage.
Staff recommends the signage be limited to ten percent of the façade where the
sign will be placed.
G. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request to allow additional signage as
proposed subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in
paragraph F of the above agenda staff report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the request to allow additional
signage as proposed subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as
outlined in paragraph F of the above agenda staff report.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 6 FILE NO.: Z-5742-A
NAME: C & G Asset Management Short-form PCD
LOCATION: Located at 1001 Wright Avenue
DEVELOPER:
C & S Asset Management LLC
1001 Wright Avenue
P.O. Box 2252
Little Rock, AR 72203
ENGINEER:
White-Daters and Associates
24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 0.512 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 Zoning Lot FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: O-1, Quiet Office District
ALLOWED USES: Quiet Office Uses
PROPOSED ZONING: PCD
PROPOSED USE: Residential, Office and Commercial
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
Ordinance No. 16,509 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on October 19,
1993, rezoned this site from R-4A to O-1.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The proposal includes the construction of a single building with a total of 6,336
square feet of space and 23 on-site parking spaces. The building is proposed
with various tenants which can be divided into six to eleven units depending on
the unit arrangement and the unit size. The unit size will average 647 square
feet. Based on combinations and configurations the units could be configured
with two units of approximately 647 square feet, one unit of 1,941 square feet
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5742-A
2
and three units of 1,294 square feet. The site plan indicates a parking ratio of
four parking spaces per unit for six units to 2.18 parking spaces per unit for
eleven units. The site plan indicates a building to land ratio of 32 percent. A
wood fence will be constructed for perimeter treatment and screening. An
existing solid wood fence extends from the interior southwest corner of the south
property line, east approximately 125 feet to 130 feet. A portion of the proposed
parking will not be screened and is proposed to be screened by an extension of
the fence or the placement of shrubs. Along the western perimeter of the site a
wood fence extends approximately 100 feet with 25-feet of the new parking area
not screened. This area will also be screened with the extension of the wood
fence or the planting of shrubs.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site contains an office building which was originally constructed as a drive-
through branch bank and is now being used for a real estate service company.
The area contains a number of uses including Philander Smith College, Dunbar
Community Center, Dunbar Middle School and a Central Arkansas Library
facility. To the south of the site is a PD-C approved as an office use for Mr.
Klean’s Carpet and Janitorial service. Single-family homes are located in the
immediate area with residences located to the southeast and southwest and to
the northwest.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. The Downtown Neighborhood Association, all owners of property
located within 200 feet of the site and all residents, who could be identified,
located within 300 feet of the proposed development were notified of the public
hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. A 20-foot radial dedication of right-of-way is required at the intersection of
Wright Avenue and Chester Street.
2. The sidewalk on the west side of the driveway should be moved to provide
better access to the sidewalk on the east side of the driveway. Sidewalk
should be placed in public easement.
3. Driveway locations and widths do not meet the traffic access and circulation
requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. Driveway spacing from
intersections should be a minimum 250 feet. The existing east driveway
should be moved to approximately 10 feet from the south property line.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5742-A
3
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this property.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. A 2-inch PVC water main
crosses this property in the closed right-of-way of Wright Avenue. Contact
Central Arkansas Water if larger and/or additional water meter(s) are required.
Fire Department: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Central City Planning District.
The Land Use Plan shows Mixed Use for this property. The applicant has
applied for a Short-form PCD to allow a mixed use development containing
residential, office, and commercial on the site.
The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan.
Master Street Plan: Wright Avenue is shown as a Minor Arterial on the Master
Street Plan and Chester Street is shown as a Collector. These streets may
require dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements. A Minor
Arterial provides connections to and through an urban area and their primary
function is to provide short distance travel within the urbanized area. Entrances
and exits should be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians
on Wright Avenue since it is a Minor Arterial. The primary function of a Collector
Street is to provide a connection from Local Streets to Arterials.
Bicycle Plan: A Class II bike route is shown along Wright Avenue. A Class II
bikeway is located on the street as either a 5’ shoulder or six foot marked bike
lane. Additional paving and right of way may be required. A Class III bike route
is shown along Chester Street according to the Master Street Plan bicycle
section. A Class III bikeway is a signed route on a street shared with traffic. No
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5742-A
4
additional paving or right-of-way is required. Class III bicycle route signage may
be required.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The applicant’s property lies in the
area covered by the Downtown Neighborhood Action Plan. The Housing Goal
states, “Redevelop 153 vacant lots and re-occupy 512 vacant houses and 325
vacant apartments.” The inclusion of residential could advance this goal. The
Economic Development Goal is also applicable. It states, “Attract other
businesses and services, such as pizza places that make home deliveries,
another grocery, another pharmacy, video stores, cafes, a sporting goods store,
and more restaurants open after 8 p.m.”
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. The site appears to be overdeveloped. It is not in compliance with the
landscape ordinance.
3. The zoning buffer ordinance requires an eight foot (8) wide land use buffer to
separate this proposed development from the residential property on western
perimeter of the site. Currently, the site plan is not meeting this minimum
requirement. Seventy percent (70%) of these buffers are to remain
undisturbed.
4. A six (6) foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side
directed outward, a wall, or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the
western perimeter of the site. Credit towards fulfilling this requirement can be
given for existing trees and undergrowth that satisfies this year-around
requirement.
5. The landscape ordinance requires a minimum of six foot nine inches (6’-9”)
along all property lines. Currently, this proposal encroaches into this
minimum amount on all four sides of the property. A variance from the City
Beautiful Commission must be granted prior to the issuance of a building
permit.
6. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a minimum six foot nine inch wide (6’-
9”) wide street buffer along Chester Street and along Wright Avenue. The
Planning Commission must approve a variation from this typical minimum
requirement.
7. The landscape ordinance requires a minimum of a three foot wide (3)
landscape strip to be located between the parking lot and the building. This
requirement also appears to be below the minimum allowed.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5742-A
5
8. A water source must be located within seventy-five foot (75) of all landscaped
areas.
9. These calculations take into account the proposed development is located
within a designated mature area of the city.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed development indicating there were a number of
concerns related to the proposed site plan. Staff stated the site plan did not allow
for typical building setbacks, landscaping or parking to meet the typical minimum
requirement for a mixed use development.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated the sidewalk on the west
side of the driveway should be moved to provide better access to the sidewalk on
the east side of the driveway. Staff stated the sidewalk should be placed in a
public easement. Staff also stated the indicated driveway locations and widths
did not meet the traffic access and circulation requirements of Sections 30-43
and 31-210. Staff stated driveway spacing from intersections should be a
minimum 250 feet. Staff stated the existing east driveway should be moved to
approximately 10 feet from the south property line.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated a variance from the City
Beautiful Commission would be required to allow the reduced street buffer as
indicated. Staff also stated the indicated land use buffer did not meet the typical
minimum ordinance requirements and would require Commission approval of the
reduced buffer area.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. 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 most of the issues
raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The applicant
has indicated landscaping sufficient to meet typical minimum ordinance
requirements, indicated the proposed use mix and relocated the proposed drive
to the southern property line on Chester Street.
The revised site plan indicates the placement of an eight foot landscape strip
along the southern and western perimeters and a six foot nine inch landscape
strip along Chester Street. In two areas the parking spaces encroach into the
landscape strip. Along the southern perimeter adjacent to the relocated driveway
the site plan indicates the placement of a parking space abutting the property line
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5742-A
6
and near the northern drive a parking space has been indicated at 3.5 feet from
the property line. Staff feels the spaces in these two areas which encroach into
the landscaping should be removed. In addition, the back out space located at
the intersection of Wright and Chester Streets has been indicated encroaching
into the landscaped area. Staff feels the parking space located nearest the
intersection, heading into Wright Avenue, should be removed and the back out
space reduced to increase the landscaping at the hard corner. Areas of the
street buffer along Wright Avenue do not fully comply with the typical minimum
requirements of the zoning ordinance for street buffer widths. Staff is supportive
of allowing the reduced buffer as proposed.
The development is proposed as a mixed use development proposed with 65
percent office and 35 percent retail. The request also includes the ability to add
residential as an allowable use by the addition of a second floor, if the second
floor is cost feasible. The proposal would allow the addition of two to four units.
The site plan indicates the placement of a 6,336 square foot building and 23
parking spaces. The development is proposed with 4,118 square feet of office
space and 2,218 square feet of retail. Based on the office, retail and residential
development potential, 23 parking spaces would typically be required. As
indicated previously staff recommends three of the indicated spaces be removed
to accommodate landscaping leaving the site with a total of 20 parking spaces.
The site plan has not indicated signage. Staff recommends signage be limited to
signage as allowed in office zones or a maximum of six feet in height and sixty-
four square feet in area. Building signage should also be limited to signage as
allowed in office zones or a maximum of ten percent of the façade area.
The applicant has not defined retail uses. Staff recommends the retail uses be
limited to those uses as allowed in the C-1, Neighborhood Commercial zoning
classification. The site plan indicates inadequate parking to meet the typical
minimum parking demand. Staff is supportive of the indicated parking but
recommends the use mix of the development match the available parking on the
site.
Staff has not been provided with building elevations or proposed construction
materials. Staff recommends the site be developed in a manner to protect the
adjacent single-family homes and the neighborhood. The building materials
should be limited to wood, brick or a material that resembles wood and the roof
pitch must exceed 4:12.
Staff is supportive of the development of a mixed use development on the site as
indicated based on the previous comments. The site is presently zoned O-1 and
has historically been used as an office use. Staff feels the development should
be considerate of the adjoining residential uses when designing the building with
regard to massing, construction materials and landscaped areas. Staff feels with
the removal of the parking spaces as noted, this will enhance the landscaped
areas and provide an additional setback adjacent to the residential uses to the
south and west of the site. To staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding issues
associated with the request. Staff feels the development of a mixed use
development on the site should have minimal impact on the adjoining properties
or the area.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5742-A
7
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E, F and H of the above
agenda staff report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the request subject to
compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E, F and H
of the above agenda staff report.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 7 FILE NO.: LU07-18-01
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment - Ellis Mountain Planning District
Location: the north side of Kanis Road between Kirby and Asbury Roads
Request: Mixed Office Commercial to Service Trades District
Source: Joe White, White-Daters
PROPOSAL / REQUEST:
The applicant has requested that this item be deferred to April 12, 2007.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant on February 15, 2007 requested this item be deferred to the April 12,
2007 Planning Commission Hearing. The item was placed on consent agenda for
deferral. The consent agenda was approved by a vote of 9 for, 0 against with 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 7.1 FILE NO.: Z-6245-A
NAME: ACME Self Storage Long-form PCD
LOCATION: Located on the Northeast corner of Kanis and Kirby Roads
DEVELOPER:
LGR Investment, LLC
404 E. Kiehl Avenue
North Little Rock, AR 72020
ENGINEER:
White Daters and Associates
24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 5.6 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: C-1, Neighborhood Commercial and R-2, Single-family
ALLOWED USES: Neighborhood Commercial uses and Single-family
Residential
PROPOSED ZONING: PCD
PROPOSED USE: Mini-warehouse
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
On February 15, 2007, the applicant requested a deferral of this item to the April 12,
2007, public hearing. Staff is supportive of the deferral request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff stated on
February 15, 2007, the applicant submitted a requested for deferral of the item to the
April 12, 2007, public hearing. Staff stated they were supportive of the deferral request.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 8 FILE NO.: Z-6554-F
NAME: Bowman Kanis Retail Center Rezoning
LOCATION: Located on the Northwest corner of Kanis and Bowman Roads
DEVELOPER:
USA Drug
c/o Collier Dickson Flake Partners
400 West Capitol, Suite 1200
Little Rock, AR 72202
ENGINEER:
White-Daters and Associates
#24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 13.09 Acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 7 FT. NEW STREET: 0
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, O-3, C-3
ALLOWED USES: Single-family, Office and Commercial
PLANNING DISTRICT: 18 – Ellis Mountain
CENSUS TRACT: 42.10
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED:
SURROUNDING LAND USE AND ZONING
North – Commercial; zoned C-3
South – Office, Commercial, Mini-warehouse; zoned C-3, PCD
East – Commercial; zoned PCD
West - Vacant; zoned POD
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6554-F
2
A. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1. Kanis Road and Bowman Road are classified on the Master Street Plan as
minor arterials. A dedication of right-of-way 45 feet from centerline will be
required for each. At minor arterial intersections, an additional 10 feet of
right-of-way measured from the centerline of the right-of-way, for a right turn
lane shall be dedicated. This additional right-of-way shall normally be
250 feet in length measured from the intersecting right-of-way.
2. A 20 foot radial dedication of right-of-way is required at the intersection of
Bowman Road and Kanis Road.
B. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT:
The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
C. PUBLIC NOTIFICATION:
As of this writing staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All owners of property located within 200-feet of the site, the John
Barrow Neighborhood Association and the Gibralter Heights/Point West/Timber
Ridge Neighborhood Association were notified of the public hearing.
D. LAND USE ELEMENT:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Ellis Mountain Planning District.
The Land Use Plan shows Community Shopping for this property. The applicant
has applied for a rezoning from R-2, O-3 and C-3 to C-3 and O-3.
The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan.
Master Street Plan: Kanis and Bowman Roads are both shown as Minor
Arterials on the Master Street Plan. These streets may require dedication of
right-of-way and may require street improvements. A Minor Arterial provides
connections to and through an urban area and their primary function is to provide
short distance travel within the urbanized area. Entrances and exits should be
limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians.
Bicycle Plan: Existing or proposed Class I, II, or III Bikeways are not in the
immediate vicinity of the development.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The applicant’s property lies in the
area covered by the Rock Creek Neighborhood Action Plan. The Office and
Commercial Development goal states: “Aggressively use Planned Zoning
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6554-F
3
Districts (PZD’s) to influence more neighborhood-friendly and better quality
developments.”
E. STAFF ANALYSIS:
USA Drug owns this 13.90 acre site located on the northwest corner of Kanis and
Bowman Roads. The property is currently zoned C-3 (9.84 acres), O-3 (1.18
acres) and R-2 (2.88 acres) and USA Drug is requesting to rezone the property
to C-3, General Commercial District and O-3, General Office District. The
rezoning is proposed to allow the future development of the property with office
and commercial uses. The property is currently undeveloped. The site was a
plant nursery for a number of years but the business relocated and the building
were removed two to three years ago. The hard corner of the property is
relatively flat but west and north of the hard corner there is a significant
topography change sloping upward.
The property is located in an area of mixed zoning and extremely varied uses.
The intensely commercial Chenal Parkway/Bowman Road intersection is directly
north of the site. Uses in this area include a wide variety of retail commercial
businesses such as Sam’s, Wal-Mart, Garden Ridge and Best Buy. Across
Bowman, at the northeast corner of Kanis and Bowman Road is a PCD, which
has developed as an office/warehouse/retail center. The C-3 and PCD zoned
properties to the south; contain a variety of uses including offices,
office/warehouse and mini-warehouses. The area to the west of the site is
vacant and currently zoned POD.
The City’s Future Land Use Plan designates this property as “Community
Shopping”. A Land Use Plan Amendment is not necessary for the rezoning of
the site.
Staff is supportive of the proposed rezoning request. The Community Shopping
Land Use designation allows for shopping center development with one or more
general merchandise stores. The property immediately west of the site is shown
as MOC or Mixed Office Commercial which provides a mixture of office and
commercial uses. The C-3 rezoning expands the existing commercial located at
the intersection of the two arterials. The C-3 rezoning contains 1.31 acres
(O-3 to C-3 – 1.18 acres and R-2 to C-3 - .13 acres) and the O-3 rezoning
contains 2.75 acres (R-2 to O-3). Staff views the request as reasonable. Staff
feels the rezoning of the limited commercial area and the western portion of the
site to office allows the site to develop as indicated on the Land Use Plan and
allows a transition or stepping down of intensity along Kanis Road transiting into
the MOC property to the west. Staff feels the proposed rezoning of the property
is appropriate and should have no adverse impact on the surrounding properties
and the general area.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6554-F
4
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the requested rezoning from O-3 to C-3 and from
R-2 to O-3 and C-3.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the requested rezoning from
O-3 to C-3 and from R-2 to O-3 and C-3.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 9 FILE NO.: Z-7695-A
NAME: Smith Revised Short-form PD-R
LOCATION: Located in the 1600 Block of South Battery Street
DEVELOPER:
Shelby Smith
2700 Shelly Drive
Little Rock, AR 72210
SURVEYOR:
Donald Brooks
20820 Arch Street Pike
Hensley, AR 72065
AREA: 0.44 Acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 2 FT. NEW STREET: 0
CURRENT ZONING: PD-R and R-3, Single-family
ALLOWED USES: Five unit Multi-family and Single-family and non-conforming
four-plex
PROPOSED ZONING: PD-R
PROPOSED USE: Five unit multi-family in two buildings
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
On August 26, 2004, the Little Rock Planning Commission recommended approval of a
site plan to allow the rezoning of a portion of this site from R-3 to PD-R to recognize an
existing four-plex and allow the addition of a fifth unit in the attic area of the existing
building. The Board of Directors adopted Ordinance No. 19,200 on October 5, 2004,
establishing Smith Short-form PD-R.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7695-A
2
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
In August of 2006, the applicant purchased the apartment building located at
1604 Battery Street. The plans include the remodeling of the building in a
manner keeping with the adjacent property located at 1600 Battery Street which
is also owned by the applicant. When completed, the facility will house five units
as the applicant intends to renovate the attic space to accommodate an
efficiency apartment. Other improvements include installation of new windows,
new roofing, resurface parking, new exterior paint and landscaping. Fencing and
gates will be added to the site. The proposal is to extend the existing decorative
iron fence along the street side to the southern property line and add a gate at
the drive locations with Battery Street. The existing wood fence along the
southern property line of 1600 South Battery Street will be relocated to the
southern property line of 1604 Battery Street. A patio area located between the
two buildings will be restored including a cobblestone walk and fountain.
The applicant is requesting the rezoning of the property to bring it into
compliance with city ordinance regarding the use of the property. To facilitate the
parking for the fifth unit, the applicant is proposing the placement of a 20-foot by
20-foot parking pad along Battery Street. The parking pad located along the rear
of the property will be resurfaced and with the allowance of stacking will
accommodate eight vehicles.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
There are two existing multi-family structures located on the site (one building
was previously zoned PD-R). To the west of the site is a mixture of single-family
and two-family homes most of which have been renovated and are occupied. To
the north of the site across West 16th is a funeral home with single-family homes
located further north. To the south of the site are single-family and two family
homes. East of the site are also residential uses. There is a city park located to
the northeast of the site.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
The Central High Neighborhood Association, the Wright Avenue Neighborhood
Association, the Downtown Neighborhood Association, all owners of property
located within 200-feet of the site and all residents located within 300-feet of the
site who could be identified were notified of the public hearing. As of this writing
staff has not received any comment from area residents.
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 occupancy. From an initial inspection, it
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7695-A
3
appears the existing sidewalk and curb along Battery Street is damaged and
in need of repair.
2. All driveways aprons shall be concrete aprons per City Ordinance and built
per City detail.
3. The proposed new parking pad for 2 vehicles, which backs out onto Battery
Street, should be removed. This parking configuration will cause vehicles to
back out onto Battery Street creating unsafe driving conditions.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this property.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: Contact Central Arkansas Water if larger and/or
additional water meter(s) are required.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire
Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Central City Planning District.
The Land Use Plan shows Single Family for this property. The applicant has
applied for a rezoning to recognize an existing multi family development.
The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan.
Master Street Plan: Battery Street is shown as a Local Street on the Master
Street Plan. The primary function of a Local Street is to provide access to
adjacent properties.
Bicycle Plan: Existing or proposed Class I, II, or III Bikeways are not in the
immediate vicinity of the development.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7695-A
4
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not
located in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood
action plan.
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. Some additional landscaping may be required in conjunction with any new
parking areas.
3. The landscape ordinance requires a minimum of six foot nine inches (6’-9”)
along all property lines. Currently, this proposal encroaches into this
minimum amount on both the southern and the western perimeters. A
variance from the City Beautiful Commission must be granted prior to the
issuance of a building permit.
4. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a six foot nine inch (6’-9”) wide land use
buffer to separate this proposed development from the residential property on
southern and western perimeters of the site. Currently, the southern
perimeter is not meeting this minimum requirement. Seventy percent (70%) of
these buffers are to remain undisturbed.
5. A six (6) foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side
directed outward, a wall, or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the
western and northern perimeters of the site. Credit towards fulfilling this
requirement can be given for existing trees and undergrowth that satisfies this
year-around requirement.
6. The landscape ordinance requires a minimum of a three foot wide (3)
landscape strip to be located between the parking lot and the building. This
requirement also appears to be below the minimum allowed. A variance from
this minimum requirement must be obtained from the City Beautiful
Commission.
7. A water source must be located within seventy-five foot (75) of all landscaped
areas.
8. These calculations take into account the proposed development is located
within a designated mature area of the city.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed development indicating there were a number of
outstanding issues associated with the request. Staff questioned how garbage
collection would be handled and if a dumpster was being proposed. Staff also
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7695-A
5
stated the site plan indicated large areas of new parking. Staff stated the survey
indicated most of the area was previously paved and requested the applicant
provide the location of new paving and existing paving. Staff stated they felt the
parking should be redesigned tying the two developments together allowing
access from West 16th Street exiting to South Battery Street. Staff stated this
would allow adequate parking to serve the development without the need for
stacking to meet the typical parking demand.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated the indicated parking
backing into Battery Street should be removed. Staff also stated all driveway
aprons were required to be concrete aprons per City Ordinance and built per City
detail.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated the buffer ordinance and
the landscape ordinance required a minimum of six foot nine inch landscape strip
along all property lines. Staff stated currently, the proposal encroached into the
minimum amount on both the southern and the western perimeters. Staff stated
a variance from the City Beautiful Commission was required to satisfy the
landscape ordinance requirements.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. 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 most of the issues
raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The applicant
has redesigned the parking as requested by staff. The applicant has also
indicated there will not be a dumpster located on the site.
The revised site plan indicates an access drive from West 16th Street entering the
site and the placement of thirteen angled parking spaces heading into the
buildings. The site plan also indicates the placement of two parking spaces
along the access drive near Battery Street and four parking spaces backing into
Battery Street. Two of the parking spaces which back into Battery Street are
existing and two are proposed. Staff is not supportive of the addition of parking
spaces which back into Battery Street. The site plan indicates a total of
seventeen parking spaces. A total of fifteen parking spaces would typically be
required for a multi-family development containing ten residential units. The
indicated parking is more than adequate to meet the typical minimum parking
required.
The applicant is requesting a deferral of the proposed parking plan. The
previous approval allowed residents to enter from West 16th Street and double
stack cars in the four stalls which were existing from the initial construction of the
building. The southern building has a similar parking field located in the rear of
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7695-A
6
the building as well. Presently a ribbon drive extends from Battery Street to the
rear area which is entirely paved. The request includes the ability to upgrade the
current asphalt and the allowance of this parking arrangement for one year. After
which time the parking will be reconfigured as indicated on the proposed site
plan. Staff is supportive of this request.
The request includes a revision to the existing PD-R which was approved for
rehabilitation of an existing four unit apartment building and the addition of a
studio apartment in the attic area. The current request is a mirror building
located to the south which presently contains four units and the applicant is
requesting the allowance of a fifth unit in the attic area. The building footprints
are to remain in the current configuration. The only modifications will be
cosmetic changes to the interior and exterior of the structures and the addition of
paving and fencing. Decorative iron fencing is proposed along the street sides of
the development and along the southern perimeter tying into the existing wood
fence. The applicant has indicated if the adjoining property owner removes the
existing fence he will install a new fence along the southern perimeter. A gate is
proposed at the entrance from Battery Street.
The site plan does not comply with the typical minimum ordinance standards with
regard to land use buffers along the western and southern perimeters. The site
is existing, presently there is no landscaping in place and most of the southern
and western yard areas are paved. Staff is supportive of the landscaping as
proposed.
The site plan does not include the addition of signage. There is an existing sign
located within the landscape area at the intersection of West 16th Street and
Battery Street.
Staff is supportive of the applicant’s request. The applicant has requested the
rezoning to recognize an existing four unit apartment building and to add a fifth
unit to the attic area. The applicant has indicated the placement of seventeen
parking spaces on the site which is sufficient to meet the typical minimum
ordinance requirements for a multi-family development. There is a mixture of
uses in the area including single-family, two-family and multi-family residences
and staff does not feel the rezoning of this property to PD-R will have a
significant impact on the adjoining properties. To staff’s knowledge there are no
other outstanding issues associated with the request.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the agenda
staff report.
Staff recommends approval of the one-year deferral request of the parking area
as proposed.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7695-A
7
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval of
the request subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined
in paragraphs D, E and F of the agenda staff report. Staff also presented a
recommendation of approval of the one-year deferral request of the parking area as
proposed.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 10 FILE NO.: Z-7699-B
NAME: Highway 10 Development Short-form POD
LOCATION: Located at 16603 and 16623 Cantrell Road
DEVELOPER:
Hart Lazenby Commercial
11500 Rodney Parham, Suite 15
Little Rock, AR 72212
ENGINEER:
Rickett Engineering, Inc.
78 Aberdeen Drive
Little Rock, AR 72212
AREA: 2.33 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 zoning lot FT. NEW STREET: 0
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, Single-family and POD
ALLOWED USES: Single-family residential and O-3, General Office
District uses
PROPOSED ZONING: POD
PROPOSED USE: O-3, General and Professional Office
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
The Little Rock Board of Directors adopted Ordinance No. 19,202 on October 5, 2004,
establishing the Highway 10 Development Short-form POD. The applicant proposed to
construct a 5,600 square foot two story office building and associated parking on a 0.44
acre lot. Fourteen parking spaces were proposed.
The proposed site plan indicated signage consistent with signage allowed in the
Highway 10 Design Overlay District or a ground mounted monument style sign a
maximum of ten feet in height and one hundred square feet in area. The applicant
indicated O-3, General Office uses would be utilized as uses for the site. The office
hours were proposed as 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. The maximum
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7699-B
2
building height proposed was 30-feet. The site plan included the placement of a
dumpster on the site along the eastern boundary. The building has been constructed.
On February 16, 2006, the Little Rock Planning Commission denied a request to revise
the previously approved POD to expand the developed area to the east by 1.89 acres
and to allow the construction of two additional buildings. The proposal included the
construction a single story office/retail building containing 8,456 square feet and a two
story office building containing 7,000 square feet. The site plan indicated a total
building square footage of 21,056 square feet for all three buildings with 12,600 square
feet of office and 8,456 square feet of retail. Ninety (90) parking spaces were proposed.
The site contained a total of 101,495 square feet with 61,642 (63.2%) square feet of
impervious area and 39,853 (36.8%) square feet of green space.
The applicant’s proposed uses for the site were as follows:
Existing Building: O-3 uses only, no accessory uses.
Proposed Building A: O-3 uses, unlimited accessory uses and the following
additional commercial uses: small commercial
establishments selling gifts, electronics, phones
movies or games, home décor including paint and
wallpaper, sporting goods, liquor sales, furniture and
tanning
Proposed Building B: O-3 uses only, no accessory uses.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant proposes to construct three additional buildings similar to the one
already built adjacent to the west and a single story building adjacent to Cantrell
Road. The original development, which had limited parking and only eight suites,
will be expanded on approximately 1.89 acres just to the east and will be
comprised of office suite, varying in size with approximately 90 parking spaces.
Two of the buildings will back up to a small pond which is located east of the
development.
The request includes O-2 uses as allowable uses for the buildings. The
developers have indicated a reduced side yard setback on the eastern boundary
of the property to allow the buildings to move away from the residential property
located to the south and west. According to the cover letter all lighting will point
away from the homes and originate from the buildings. No pole lighting is
proposed within the development. The existing entrance will be widened to a
maximum of 36-feet. The applicant has indicated the site presently drains into an
adjoining pond and is requesting the adjoining natural feature be taken into
consideration when requiring storm water detention.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7699-B
3
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site contains a single-family residence and shop building formerly used as a
small sandblasting business. There are non-residential uses, office and
commercial, located to the west of the site located in the converted single-family
structures. To the east of the site is a large vacant tract abutting Cantrell Road
and the west leg of Taylor Loop Road. The area south of the site is a newly
developing single-family subdivision accessed from South Katilus Road. There
have been homes constructed along the western and southern boundary of the
site.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. The Johnson Ranch Neighborhood Association, the Chevaux Court
Property Owners Association, the Westchester Property Owners Association, all
owners of property located within 200 feet of the site and all residents, who could
be identified, located within 300 feet of the proposed development were notified
of the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. Cantrell Road is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal arterial.
Dedication of right-of-way to 55 feet from centerline will be required.
2. Sidewalks with appropriate handicap ramps are required in accordance with
Section 31-175 of the Little Rock Code and the Master Street Plan.
3. Obtain permits for improvements within State Highway right-of-way from
AHTD, District VI.
4. 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. Site
grading, and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to
the start of construction.
5. Provide a sketch Grading and Drainage Plan per Section 29-186 (e).
6. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the proposed
location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
7. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit from
the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7699-B
4
8. Driveway locations and widths do not meet the traffic access and circulation
requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. The lots must share a single
driveway access centered on the property line. The width of driveway must
not exceed 36 feet. A minimum spacing distance of 300 feet is required
between driveways on a principal arterial street. The eastern drive does not
meet this standard.
9. Old curb cuts along Cantrell Road should be closed with curb and gutter per
AHTD standards.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required with easements. Contact Little
Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. A Capital Investment Charge
based on the size of the meter connection(s) will apply to this project in addition
to normal charges. This fee will apply to all meter connections including any
metered connections off the private fire system. A water main extension, on-site
fire line(s) and additional fire hydrant(s) will be required in order to provide
service to this property. The facilities on-site will be private. When meters are
planned off private lines, private facilities shall be installed to Central Arkansas
Water's 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. 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: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is located on CATA Bus Route #25 – the Highway 10 Express
Route.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7699-B
5
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Chenal Planning District. The
Land Use Plan shows Transition for this property. The applicant has applied for
a Planned Office Development to allow O-2 uses.
The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan.
Master Street Plan: Cantrell Road is shown as a Principal Arterial on the Master
Street Plan. Cantrell Road may require dedication of right-of-way and may
require street improvements. The primary function of a Principal Arterial is to
serve through traffic and to connect major traffic generators or activity centers
within urbanized areas. Entrances and exits should be limited to minimize
negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on Cantrell Road since it is a Principal
Arterial.
Bicycle Plan: Existing or proposed Class I, II, or III Bikeways are not in the
immediate vicinity of the development.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not
located in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood
action plan.
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer
ordinance requirements.
2. Site plan must comply with the Highway 10 overlay district requirements.
3. Berming is encouraged along Highway 10.
4. The Highway 10 overlay district requires a twenty-five foot wide (25) land
use buffer. The proposed plan encroaches into this area.
5. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a twenty-four foot (24’) wide land use
buffer to separate this proposed development from the residential property
on southern perimeter of the site. Currently, the southern perimeter is not
meeting this minimum requirement. Seventy percent (70%) of these buffers
are to remain undisturbed.
6. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a twelve foot (12’) wide land use buffer
to separate this proposed development from the residential property on
western and eastern perimeters of the site. Currently, these perimeters are
not meeting this minimum requirement. Seventy percent (70%) of these
buffers are to remain undisturbed.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7699-B
6
7. A six (6) foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side
directed outward, a wall, or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the
southern, western, and eastern perimeters of the site. Credit towards
fulfilling this requirement can be given for existing trees and undergrowth
that satisfies this year-around requirement.
8. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
9. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, it will be necessary to provide an
approved landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape
Architect.
10. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing
trees as feasible on this tree covered site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape
Ordinance requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch
caliper or larger.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed development indicating there were a few technical
issues associated with the request which were outstanding. Staff stated the site
plan did not comply with the Highway 10 Design Overlay District in a number of
areas. Staff also stated the indicated parking was excessive to serve an office
development and questioned the need for the number of spaces proposed. Staff
questioned if the developers were requesting the utilization of the 10 percent
accessory uses as listed in the O-2 zoning district. Staff also questioned the
phasing plan for the development.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated the eastern most drive did
not meet the minimum ordinance standards for driveway spacing. Staff also
stated the old curb cuts along Cantrell Road should be closed with curb and
gutter per AHTD standards. Staff stated prior to any grading activities on the site
permits would be required.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated the site did not appear to
meet the typical minimum ordinance requirements of the Highway 10 Design
Overlay District. Staff also stated berming along Highway 10 was encouraged to
screen parking lots.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee
then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7699-B
7
H. ANALYSIS:
The applicant submitted a revised site plan to staff addressing most of the
technical issues raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting.
The revised site plan indicates a single drive shared between the two properties
and indicated the existing drive will be closed at the time of development. The
development is proposed as 100 percent office with no allowance for commercial
or the 10 percent accessory uses as listed in the O-2 zoning district.
The site plan indicates the expansion of the previously approved POD to
increase the area by 1.89 acres and allow the construction of four additional
buildings. The site plan indicates the construction of a single story office building
located adjacent to the existing office building and three two story office buildings
located along the eastern perimeter and at the southwest corner of the site. A
single dumpster has been located on the site along the eastern perimeter of the
site. The applicant has indicated a note concerning the required screening and
the dumpster will be serviced during business hours only.
The site plan indicates a total area of 19,800 square feet, a building footprint area
of 11,400 (20.8%) square feet, parking area of 43,040 (42.4%) square feet and
landscaped area of 39,853 (36.8%) square feet. The site plan includes the
placement of 90 parking spaces. Based on the minimum parking required for an
office development 49 parking spaces would typically be required. According to
the applicant the site will be developed with three buildings of eight (8) suites
each and a building of four suites. Each suite could employ three (3) persons,
requiring 84 parking spaces. Additionally, the existing building to the west is
under-parked by approximately ten (10) spaces and overflow parking would
utilize the additional spaces created.
The applicant has indicated the parking and the rear three buildings will be
constructed in a single phase with a pad set for construction of the single story
building located along the northwestern perimeter. The buildings are proposed
as stucco, stone and siding. A total building height of 32-feet is proposed.
The site plan does not include the placement of any additional signage. The
previous approval allowed for the construction of a ground mounted monument
style sign not to exceed ten feet in height and one hundred square feet in area.
Building signage is to comply with signage allowed in office zones or a maximum
of ten percent of the façade area.
The revised site plan indicates interior landscape islands adequate to meet the
minimum ordinance requirement and a landscape strip around the perimeter
complying with the Highway 10 Design Overlay District requirements with the
exception of the eastern perimeter. The proposal includes a 100-foot building
setback adjacent to Cantrell Road, a 40-foot rear yard setback, a 30-foot side
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7699-B
8
yard setback along the western perimeter and a 15-foot building setback along
the eastern perimeter. The indicated setbacks comply with the minimum setback
requirements to the Highway 10 Design Overlay District standard with the
exception of the setback along the eastern perimeter. The Highway 10 Design
Overlay District typically requires the placement of a 30-foot side yard building
setback. Landscaping per the Highway 10 Design Overlay District should include
a 40-foot front yard landscape strip, a 25-foot average landscape strip around the
remaining perimeters. The site plan indicates the placement of the 40-foot front
yard landscape strip, a 30-foot landscape strip along the western perimeter and a
28.25 foot landscape strip along the southern perimeter. The landscaping in
these areas exceeds the typical minimum ordinance standards. The landscaping
strip along the eastern perimeter is indicated at 15-feet which does not comply
with the typical minimum ordinance standards. In addition, the Design Overlay
District typically allows the maximum of one building for every two acres. The
proposal includes the development of four buildings on a 2.33 acre site.
Staff is supportive of the development if consideration is taken to lessen the
impact of the development on the adjacent residential uses. The site is
designated as Transition on the City’s Future Land Use Plan which allows for
residential, both single-family and multi-family, and office uses. Historically office
developments in the transition classification have been constructed in the
suburban office style, by limiting the massing and maintaining a residential
character. Staff feels the buildings should be constructed of residential style
materials and architectural elements resembling single-family construction. Staff
also feels the perimeter landscaping along the southern and southwestern
perimeters should be evergreen trees such as Leyland Cypress, planted with a
larger caliper tree than typically required, such as a three inch caliper, and
spaced to provide screening to the adjoining residences.
Otherwise to staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding issues associated with
the request. Staff feels the development of this site with an office development, if
developed as recommended, should have minimal impact on the adjoining
properties.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E, F and H of the above
agenda staff report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7699-B
9
request subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in
paragraphs D, E, F and H of the agenda staff report.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes,
0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 11 FILE NO.: Z-7786-A
NAME: Dennis Properties Revised Long-form PCD
LOCATION: Located at 11421 Stagecoach Road
DEVELOPER:
Dennis Properties LLC
2791 Hilldale Road
Alexander, AR 72202
ENGINEER:
Black Corley and Owens, PA Architects
219 West South Street
Benton, AR 72015
AREA: 20.074 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 2 FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: PCD
ALLOWED USES: Office, Showroom with Warehouse (with retail
sales enclosed)
PROPOSED ZONING: Revised PCD
PROPOSED USE: Office, Showroom with Warehouse (with retail sales
enclosed) and add additional retail uses as allowable uses.
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
On April 5, 2005, the Little Rock Board of Directors adopted Ordinance No. 19,293
establishing Dennis Short-form PCD. The applicant proposed the rezoning of the site
located at 11421 Stagecoach Road from R-2, Single-family to PCD to allow the
development of an office/warehouse development on the site. The site plan included
the development of two buildings in two phases with 29,688 square feet of
office/warehouse in the first phase and 39,688 square feet in Phase 2. The buildings
were proposed as metal buildings with a glass office entry door and warehouse entry of
overhead door in the front and in the rear of the buildings for each unit.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 11 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7786-A
2
All units would face Stagecoach Road and would have large parking areas and large
areas for business vehicles to access the front and back of the building for material pick
up or delivery. The sizes of the rental units would vary depending on the tenant’s need.
Office, showroom, warehousing with retail sales was approved as an allowable use.
The applicant indicated the site would be marketed to end-users with a need for
warehouse and office space from individuals to corporations. The applicant indicated
the primary use of the site would be for storage, warehouse, distribution, manufacturing
of goods or those that need more office and operating space with a storage area. The
perspective tenants proposed (but not limited to) were general contractors, construction
companies of different trades, material supply companies and those who have products
to sell to the public such as an electrical supply business both wholesale and retail,
plumbing supply both wholesale and retail or paint and wallpaper store both wholesale
and retail. The approval also included tool and equipment rental with no outdoor
display.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is proposing an amendment to the previously approved PCD to
add additional uses as allowable uses to the site. There are no other
modifications proposed with the amendment. The following list the additional
requested allowable uses for the site:
Ambulance post, Animal clinic, enclosed, Appliance repair, Auto glass muffler
shop, Auto parts and accessories, Eating place without drive in or dine in service,
enclosed, Storage company, moving company, Job printing, Light fabrication and
assembly, Office general and professional, Plumbing, electrical, heat and air
shop, Studio, broadcasting, recording, Studio, art, music and dance, Cabinet
shop, Furniture repair, Fire station, Machine or welding shop, Machine sales and
service, Photo studio, Swimming pool sales and supply, Taxidermist, Hardware,
sporting goods, Glass shop, installation and repair, Antique shop, Medical
appliance and fitting sales, Tire sales and installation, Paint and wall paper store,
Flooring sales, Material suppliers.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
Phase I of the development as been constructed with an office/warehouse
building. The remainder of the site is vacant and grass covered. Stagecoach
Road is a two lane state highway adjacent to the site with open ditches for
drainage. The eastern portion of the site is located in the floodway and a large
power transmission line is located in this area. To the west of the site is an
apartment development and northwest of the site is a city park.
Other uses in the area include residential and non-residential uses. There is a
strip center and mini-warehouse development located to the northeast.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 11 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7786-A
3
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
Southwest Little Rock United for Progress, the Otter Creek Homeowners
Association, all property owners located within 200-feet of the site and all
residents who could be identified located within 300-feet of the site were notified
of the public hearing. As of this writing staff has received one informational
phone call for an area resident.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
No comment.
E. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was not present at the Subdivision Committee meeting. Staff
stated the revision to the PCD was to allow additional uses within the previously
approved buildings. Staff stated there were no other modifications proposed with
the amendment. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee
then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
F. ANALYSIS:
No technical issues remained from the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee
meeting. The applicant is proposing to add additional allowable uses to be
considered as tenants for the site. The allowable uses of the site are
Office/Showroom/Warehouse with limited retail sales, materials supplies and tool
equipment rental with no outdoor display.
The request includes the addition of the following uses as allowable uses for the
site: Ambulance post, Animal clinic, enclosed, Appliance repair, Auto glass
muffler shop, Auto parts and accessories, Eating place without drive in or dine in
service, enclosed, Storage company, moving company, Job printing, Light
fabrication and assembly, Office general and professional, Plumbing, electrical,
heat and air shop, Studio, broadcasting, recording, Studio, art, music and dance,
Cabinet shop, Furniture repair, Fire station, Machine or welding shop, Machine
sales and service, Photo studio, Swimming pool sales and supply, Taxidermist,
Hardware, sporting goods, Glass shop, installation and repair, Antique shop,
Medical appliance and fitting sales, Tire sales and installation, Paint and wall
paper store, Flooring sales, Material suppliers.
As in the original approval staff feels all the allowable uses of the site should be
maintained indoors with no outdoor storage area of equipment, product,
merchandise or inventory.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 11 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7786-A
4
The applicant has amended the request to eliminate the request for a restaurant
with dine-in service and be allowed a restaurant without dine-in service. Based
on the existing parking a restaurant with dine-in service would severely impact
the parking for the site. The site plan was approved for the placement of 71,779
square feet of building space and 108 parking spaces. Based on typical
minimum parking requirements for a commercial development 191 parking
spaces would typically be required. Staff is supportive of allowing an eating
place to locate on the site with no tables for dine-in service and the use provide a
“take and go” service such as a pizza or sandwich shop.
Otherwise to staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding issues associated with
the request. Staff feels the additional uses as proposed should have minimal
impact on the development and the area.
G. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraph F of the above agenda staff
report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the
request subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in
paragraph F of the above agenda staff report.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 12 FILE NO.: Z-7991-A
NAME: Maris Short-form PD-O
LOCATION: Located at 3 Pine Mountain Drive
DEVELOPER:
Chris Maris
P.O. Box 56560
Little Rock, AR 72215
ENGINEER:
Marlar Engineering Company
5318 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
North Little Rock, AR 72215
AREA: 0.32 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, Single-family
ALLOWED USES: Single-family residential
PROPOSED ZONING: PD-O
PROPOSED USE: Office - Appraisal company
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
On March 2, 2006, the Planning Commission was scheduled to hear a request to allow
this structure to be utilized by Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services (MEMS) as an
ambulance substation. Prior to the Commission hearing, the applicant submitted a
request to withdraw the item from consideration. The proposal included the widening of
the existing drive from 12-feet to 17-feet. All other exterior features were to be
maintained to maintain the residential characteristics of the structure.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant has a small appraisal company that performs residential real estate
appraisals. The office is a small office consisting of three appraisers, including
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7791-A
2
the owner, and a secretary. The request is to convert the existing house located
at 3 Pine Mountain Road into an office use for the appraisal company. The
house is the first structure on Pine Mountain from Pinnacle Valley Road. As an
appraisal office, there is limited customer traffic and signage is not necessary to
identify the business. The hours of operation of the business are 7:30 am to
5:00 pm Monday through Friday. The site will be utilized as it presently exists
with the exception of increasing the driveway width six to eight feet to
accommodate the employee’s vehicles.
According to the applicant the proposed office use will not disrupt the
neighborhood. The type of business, the small number of employees and the
limited public traffic will be a suitable use for the property.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The property is located in an area of mixed zoning and uses. The PCD zoned
property to the east contains a landscape service company; mini-warehouses
and commercial uses. A PD-O zoned veterinary clinic is located slightly west of
the site. Cantrell Road and the new alignment of Pinnacle Valley Road area
located to the south. A variety of commercial uses extend west of the
intersection. Single-family homes are located along Pine Mountain Road.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. The Pinnacle Valley Neighborhood Association, the Westchester
Property Owners Association, the Westbury Neighborhood Association, all
owners of property located within 200 feet of the site and all residents, who could
be identified, located within 300 feet of the proposed development were notified
of the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. The proposed land use would classify Pine Mountain Road on the Master
Street Plan as a commercial street. Dedicate right-of-way to 30 feet from
centerline.
2. In the future if improvements or expansion of the structure or parking area is
proposed, provide design of street conforming to the Master Street Plan.
Construct one-half street improvement to Pine Mountain Road including
5-foot sidewalk with the planned development.
3. The existing structure is located in the 100-year floodplain. Any new
additions to the structure must comply with the current floodplain regulations.
If any improvements to the existing structure or expansion to the existing
structure exceeds 50% of the appraised value of the existing structure, then
the entire structure must comply with the current floodplain regulations.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7791-A
3
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this property.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: Contact Central Arkansas Water if larger and/or
additional water meter(s) are required.
Fire Department: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the River Mountain Planning
District. The Land Use Plan shows Transition for this property. The applicant
has applied for a rezoning from R-2 to Planned Office Development to allow the
existing structure to be utilized as an office use for an appraisal company.
The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan.
Master Street Plan: Pine Mountain is shown as a Local Street on the Master
Street Plan. The primary function of a Local Street is to provide access to
adjacent properties.
Bicycle Plan: Existing or proposed Class I, II, or III Bikeways are not in the
immediate vicinity of the development.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The applicant’s property lies in the
area covered by the River Mountain Neighborhood Action Plan. The
neighborhood plan does not address this issue.
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7791-A
4
2. Some additional landscaping may be required in conjunction with any new
parking areas.
3. The landscape ordinance requires a minimum of nine foot (9) landscape area
along all property lines.
4. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a nine foot (9) wide land use buffer to
separate this proposed development from the residential property on the
northern and southern perimeters of the site. Seventy percent (70%) of these
buffers are to remain undisturbed.
5. A six (6) foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side
directed outward, a wall, or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the
northern and southern perimeters of the site. Credit towards fulfilling this
requirement can be given for existing trees and undergrowth that satisfies this
year-around requirement.
6. A water source must be located within seventy-five foot (75) of all landscaped
areas.
7. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing
trees as feasible on tree covered sites. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape
Ordinance requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch
caliper or larger.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was not present. Staff stated the request was to convert an
existing single-family structure into an office use for an appraisal company. Staff
stated the goal of the developer was to maintain the residential integrity of the
structure. Staff stated the only modification to the site would be widening of the
existing drive six to eight feet to allow for additional parking. There was no
further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the item to the full
Commission for final action.
H. ANALYSIS:
There were no remaining technical issues associated with the request remaining
from the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The request is to
allow an existing single-family structure to be used as an office use for an
appraisal company. The company presently has four employees. The hours of
operation are from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. No signage is
proposed to serve the business and no customer traffic is proposed.
The site contains an existing hard surface driveway extending from Pine
Mountain Drive to a parking pad. The applicant has indicated the only
modification to the site would be the addition of approximately six (6) to eight (8)
feet of additional paving material to expand the drive to a maximum of 20-feet in
width to accommodate two (2) vehicles and meet the typical minimum parking
demand for the use.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7791-A
5
The City’s adopted land use plan shows this area to be Transition, which is
appropriate for office uses. In this case, the proposal is to maintain the
residential character of the property while allowing the office use. It is likely, in
fact, that this use may serve as a holding use for the property. There is a
potential that long-term the larger area around this site may redevelop as some
thing other than the existing, detached single family. The applicant has stated
this may not be a permanent use; that the office could relocate in the future as
the business grows.
The bill of assurance for Pine Mountain Subdivision was created in 1958 and
appears to still be valid. Section 1 of the bill of assurance contains the following
statement: No lot other than Lot “P” shall be used except for residential
purposes. The subject property is Lot “O”.
The applicant is requesting a waiver of the typical screening requirement along
the northern and southern perimeters. In light of the specifics of this proposal,
staff supports a waiver of the screening requirements. The driveway is located on
the south side of the lot where there is no abutting residential property and there
is no outside activity other than parking. Since the development does not
anticipate customer traffic to the site the number of trips per day should be
minimal and not significantly impact the area.
Staff is supportive of the applicant’s proposal. Staff feels the utilization of the
existing structure as an office use for an appraisal company should have minimal
impact on the area. The proposed use is consistent with uses as allowed per the
City’s Future Land Use plan. To staff’s knowledge, there are no outstanding
issues associated with the request.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E, F and H of the above
agenda staff report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were registered objectors
present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the request
subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E,
F and H of the above agenda staff report.
Mr. Chris Maris addressed the Commission stating he had nothing to add to the staff
presentation.
Mr. Tom Anderson addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He stated
his property was located to the north of the site. He stated the Bill of Assurance for the
subdivision prohibited commercial activity on the site. He stated the applicant had
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7791-A
6
indicated difficulty in renting the site for a residential use. He stated he had not
experienced this problem when his unit was vacant within a limited time he was able to
rent the structure. He requested the Commission use the common sense approach to
the request and deny the rezoning.
Ms. Becky Cantrell addressed the Commission in opposition. She stated her home was
located at 6 Pine Mountain Drive. She stated she had lived in her home since 1970.
She stated the applicant contacted her to see if the neighborhood would support the
office use. She stated she contacted the homeowners in the area and the
neighborhood association and it was a consensus the office use should not be
supported. She stated the neighborhood had a history with the owner and he did not
keep his word or maintain the properties he owned in the neighborhood. She stated
staff stated the development would not impact the area but in public works comments
the developer would be required to increase the street to a commercial design standard.
She stated the subdivision had a Bill of Assurance which prohibited commercial activity
but had been told by staff the Bill of Assurance and zoning were two different issues.
She stated the neighborhood had a number of elderly residents who did not want
commercial development on their street. She requested the Commission maintain the
residential integrity of the street and deny the request.
Ms. Sandra Burkhart Stevens chose not to address the Commission.
Mr. Nick Alsop addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He stated he
was president of the Pinnacle Valley Property Owners Association which represented
the residents of Pine Mountain Drive. He stated the association represented
approximately 30 households. He presented the Commission with a slide show
depicting the street as a quiet residential street with homes well maintained and yards
manicured. He stated the house was not isolated from the neighborhood but was the
entrance to the neighborhood. He read a letter from Ted and Wendy Hoss to the
Commission. The letter stated her family was opposed to the change of the structure to
a commercial use. Mr. Alsop stated Pine Mountain was a quiet residential street with 13
homes. He requested the Commission not change the character of the street by
allowing the rezoning of the structure.
Ms. Mary Dornhoffer addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. She
stated she represented the West Little Rock Collation of Neighborhoods. She stated
the proposed change was precisely what the collation had been fighting for a number of
years. She stated the change in zoning would change the fabric of the neighborhood.
She stated with the change in zoning this could create a domino effect. She requested
the commission protect the neighborhood and oppose the rezoning request.
Mr. James Rengers stated he had noting additional to add.
Mr. Maris stated he presently owned four of the houses on the street and had a fifth
house under contact. He stated the change in classification would not change the
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7791-A
7
character of the neighborhood. He stated the drive would be located on the south
property line and there would be a limited number of trips per day by the employees.
He stated the traffic generated would not be any greater than a family of four.
The Commission questioned Mr. Maris as to if he lived on the street. Mr. Maris stated
he did not live on the street. The Commissioners indicated a concern with the Bill of
Assurance and the Commission allowing a non-residential activity within the subdivision
which was prohibited by the Bill of Assurance. Staff stated the Commission was to
consider the Bill of Assurance when making a decision but was not bound by the Bill of
Assurance.
The Commission questioned staff as to their thoughts on recommending approval and if
they felt the neighborhood was no longer a viable neighborhood. Staff stated this was
not the case they felt the neighborhood was viable as a neighborhood but since the site
was shown as Transitional on the Land Use Plan the proposed use was an allowable
use under the Transitional classification. Staff suggested the Commission consider
recommending an amendment to the Land Use Plan to create an all or noting
classification which would not piecemeal the subdivision but require all the area to
change at one time or remain residential.
The Commission questioned the neighborhood about why they did not oppose MEMS
or the mini-warehouse located to the east. Ms. Cantrell stated the neighborhood felt
MEMS, the vet clinic, the mini-warehouse were all good neighbors and the
neighborhood knew the area would change. The neighborhood wanted to be
maintained as a single unit until such time the entire neighborhood was transitioned or
change to a non-residential use.
The Chair entertained a motion for approval of the item. The motion failed by a vote of
0 ayes, 9 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 13 FILE NO.: LU07-09-03
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment - I-630 Planning District
Location: southeast corner of 7th and Woodrow Streets
Request: Service Trades District to Mixed Office Commercial
Source: Stephen Giles, Attorney at Law
PROPOSAL / REQUEST:
The applicant has requested that this item be deferred to April 12, 2007.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant on February 9, 2007 requested this item be deferred to the April 12, 2007
Planning Commission Hearing. The item was placed on the consent agenda for
deferral. The consent agenda was approved by a vote of 9 for, 0 against with 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 13.1 FILE NO.: Z-7895-A
NAME: 7th and Woodrow Short-form PCD
LOCATION: Located on the Southeast corner of 7th and Woodrow Streets
DEVELOPER:
Stephen R. Giles, PA
425 West Capitol Avenue, Suite 3200
Little Rock, AR 72201
ENGINEER:
White Daters and Associates
24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 1.29 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 zoning lot FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: R-3, Single-family
ALLOWED USES: Single-family residential
PROPOSED ZONING: PCD
PROPOSED USE: Restaurant
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
The applicant submitted a request dated February 9, 2007, requesting a deferral of this
item to the April 12, 2007, public hearing. Staff is supportive of the deferral request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff stated on
February 9, 2007, the applicant submitted a requested for deferral of the item to the
April 12, 2007, public hearing. Staff stated they were supportive of the deferral request.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 14 FILE NO.: Z-8140-A
NAME: ME Seckt LTD Company Short-form PD-O
LOCATION: Located at 4720 West Markham Street
DEVELOPER:
M. E. Seckt, LTD Co.
608 Nan Circle
Little Rock, AR 72211
ENGINEER:
James Farris, PLS
1485 South Hills Drive
Conway, AR 72034
AREA: 0.16 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: R-3, Single-family
ALLOWED USES: Single-family residence
PROPOSED ZONING: PD-O
PROPOSED USE: Office General and Professional – Real Estate Company
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
M.E. Seckt Ltd Company, owner of the 0.16 acre lot at 4720 West Markham
Street, is requesting a rezoning of the property from R-3, Single-family District to
PD-O Planned Development, Office. The property is located at the northeast
corner of West Markham Street and N. Spruce Street. The rezoning is proposed
to allow use of the existing building as a real estate office. Parking is proposed in
the rear yard area accessed by the existing alley. A small addition is proposed to
the rear of the structure to add additional office space.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8140-A
2
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
There is currently a one-story frame single-family structure on the property.
There is a paved alley along the rear (east) property line. The alley does not
extend the entire length of the block. The alley ties into a paved parking lot for
the office use immediately to the east.
The general area contains a mixture of uses and zoning. The State Health
Department facilities are located across West Markham Street to the south.
There are single-family residences to the north and across N. Spruce Street to
the west. There is also a mixture of office and commercial uses to the east,
along the north side of West Markham Street.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. The Hillcrest Residents Neighborhood Association, all owners of
property located within 200 feet of the site and all residents, who could be
identified, located within 300 feet of the proposed development were notified of
the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. Markham Street is classified on the Master Street Plan as a minor arterial
with reduced standards. A dedication of right-of-way 35 feet from centerline
will be required. Due to site constraints, right-of-way should be dedicated to
the existing wood fence or the existing residential structure.
2. The proposed land use would classify Spruce Street on the Master Street
Plan as a commercial street. Dedicate right-of-way to 30 feet from
centerline.
3. A 20 foot radial dedication of right-of-way is required at the intersection of
Markham Street and N. Spruce Street.
4. Sidewalks with appropriate handicap ramps are required in accordance with
Section 31-175 of the Little Rock Code and the Master Street Plan to be
placed along Markham Street.
5. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the
public right-of-way prior to occupancy.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8140-A
3
6. Obtain a franchise agreement from Public Works (John Barr, 371-4646) for
the trees located along N. Spruce Street and any other improvements
located in the right-of-way.
7. Remove old fence and fence post located along West Markham Street.
8. Since the existing wooden fence creates access and sight distance
problems, the fence should be removed as noted on plan.
9. Dedication of right-of-way is required to 10 feet from centerline of alley.
10. Existing radiuses of the curb on the alley is substandard and should be
increased to a 10-foot radius. The alley should be constructed to Public
Work Alley Turnout detail (PW-35).
11. The proposed entrance from the alley into the property should be located on
the northern portion of the property and the proposed parking spaces
should be moved to the south side of the property. The proposed parking
layout should provide area for vehicles to backup. The proposed parking
layout does not provide that backing area.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer service line location is unknown. No sewer is available to
this property. Sewer main extension is required with easements. Contact Little
Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: Approved as submitted.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: Contact Central Arkansas Water if larger and/or
additional water meter(s) are required.
Fire Department: Fire hydrants may be required. Contact the Little Rock
Fire Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is located near CATA Bus Route #8 - the Rodney Parham
Route.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8140-A
4
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Heights Hillcrest Planning
District. The Land Use Plan shows Office for this property. The applicant has
applied for a rezoning to allow the existing structure to be utilized as an office use
for a real estate company.
The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan.
Master Street Plan: West Markham Street is shown as a Minor Arterial on the
Master Street Plan. A Minor Arterial provides connections to and through an
urban area and their primary function is to provide short distance travel within the
urbanized area. Entrances and exits should be limited to minimize negative
effects of traffic and pedestrians on West Markham Street since it is a Minor
Arterial. The street may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street
improvements for entrances and exits to the site.
Bicycle Plan: Existing or proposed Class I, II, or III Bikeways are not in the
immediate vicinity of the development.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The applicant’s property lies in the
area covered by the Hillcrest Neighborhood Action Plan. The Zoning and Land
Use goal states a need to “stop the degradation” and “this includes no net loss of
residential units by demolition or conversion to other uses.”
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a six foot nine inch (6’-9”) wide land use
buffer to separate this proposed development from the residential property on
the northern perimeter of the site. Seventy percent (70%) of these buffers are
to remain undisturbed.
3. A six (6) foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side
directed outward, a wall, or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the
northern perimeter of the site. Credit towards fulfilling this requirement can be
given for existing trees and undergrowth that satisfies this year-around
requirement.
4. The zoning ordinance requires a six foot nine inch (6’-9”) wide street buffer.
Current, proposal does not meet this minimal requirement along W. Markham
Street. Approval from the Planning Commission will be required prior to the
issuance of a building permit.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8140-A
5
5. The landscape ordinance requires a six foot nine inch (6’-9”) wide landscape
strip. Current, proposal does not meet this minimal requirement along W.
Markham Street. Approval from the City Beautiful Commission will be
required prior to the issuance of a building permit.
6. A water source must be located within seventy-five foot (75) of all landscaped
areas.
7. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing
trees as feasible on tree covered sites. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape
Ordinance requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch
caliper or larger.
8. These calculations take into account the proposed development is located
within a designated mature area of the city.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed development indicating there were additional items
necessary to complete the review process. Staff requested the developer
provide the days and hours of operation, the number of employees, the total
square footage of the existing structure and the square footage of the proposed
addition. Staff stated they had concerns with the parking as proposed. Staff
suggested the applicant redesign the site plan to not pave the entire rear yard
area and maintain the residential character of the structure. Staff suggested the
parking be limited to three spaces, possibly four with the double stacking of one
space, accessed from the alley, which would allow landscaping around the
parking area.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated additional right of way
dedication would be required per the Master Street Plan. Staff also stated the
alley would require improvements to a minimum paving width of 18-feet.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated the proposed site plan did
not allow adequate landscaping to meet the typical minimum ordinance
requirements for the landscape and buffer ordinances. Staff stated any reduction
in the minimum landscape ordinance requirements would require approval from
the City Beautiful Commission.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee
then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8140-A
6
H. ANALYSIS:
The applicant submitted a revised site plan to staff addressing some of the
issues raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The
applicant has provided the days and hours of operation, the number of
employees, the total square footage of the existing structure and the proposed
addition. The revised plan indicates dedication of right of way along the two
abutting streets and the alley. A note indicates the alley will be improved to a
minimum paving width of 18-feet.
The site plan indicates a seven foot landscape strip adjacent to the proposed
parking pad in the rear on the north and south perimeters. Adjacent to the
structure landscaping is proposed within the right of way of West Markham
Street. The right of way dedication proposed is 34.0 feet which abuts the
southern wall of the structure. With the dedication a zero setback along West
Markham is proposed.
The applicant has indicated the days and hours of operation are from 8:00 am to
6:00 pm Monday through Saturday. There are five (5) employees of the
business. The use is proposed as a real estate office. Signage is to be limited to
signage allowed in office zones or a maximum of six feet in height and sixty-four
square feet in area. Building signage will be limited to ten percent of the façade
area.
The site plan indicates the placement of a drive extending from the alley into the
rear yard area flaring to allow the parking of three automobiles. Staff is not
supportive of this design. Staff feels the parking should be constructed nearer
the alley with the allowance of one stall to double stack and the cars exit the
parking stall by backing into the alleyway. With this design the paving material
will be greatly reduced which in turn will maintain the residential character of the
structure.
This site as well as the frontage in this area along West Markham Street is
indicated on the City’s Future Land Use Plan as Office. Staff is supportive of
allowing the structure to convert to a quiet office use but staff is not supportive of
allowing the rear yard area to be substantially paved. The office use as
proposed with limited days and hours of operation and the limited number of
employees should act as a transition between the State Health Department
located to the south and the single-family homes located to the north.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends denial of the request as filed.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item with a recommendation of deferral to the April 12, 2007, public
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8140-A
7
hearing to allow staff and the applicant time to resolve issues raised concerning the
proposed parking layout.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 15 FILE NO.: Z-8167
NAME: Meyer Short-form PCD
LOCATION: Located at West Markham and Kavanaugh
DEVELOPER:
Jerry Meyer
3001 West Markham Street
Little Rock, AR 72205
SURVEYOR
Donald Brooks Surveying
20820 Arch Street Pike
Hensley, AR 72065
AREA: 0.5+ acres LOTS: 1 zoning lot FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: C-3 and R-5
ALLOWED USES: General Commercial Uses and Multi-family 36-units per acre
PROPOSED ZONING: PCD
PROPOSED USE: C-3, General Commercial District uses
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
The applicant requested on February 12, 2007, this item be deferred to the April 12,
2007, public hearing. Staff is supportive of the deferral request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff stated on
February 12, 2007, the applicant submitted a requested for deferral of the item to the
April 12, 2007, public hearing. Staff stated they were supportive of the deferral request.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote
of 8 ayes, 0 noes, 2 absent and 1 recusal (Jerry Meyer).
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 16 FILE NO.: Z-8168
NAME: Waters Edge Tract B Long-form PD-R
LOCATION: Located North of David O Dodd Road, East of I-430
DEVELOPER:
H & L Properties
505 West Dixon Road
Little Rock, AR 72209
ENGINEER:
McGetrick and McGetrick Engineers
10 Otter Creek Court, Suite A
Little Rock, AR 72210
AREA: 6.506 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 350 LF
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, Single-family
ALLOWED USES: Single-family residential
PROPOSED ZONING: PD-R
PROPOSED USE: 36-unit condominium housing
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The project consists of 6.05 acres located at the northeast corner of I-430 and
David O Dodd Road. The site is currently zoned R-2, single-family. The owner
is requesting a rezoning to PD-R to allow the development of a 36-unit
condominium project. A six foot wood and brick fence is proposed to enclose the
project. Signage is proposed in accordance with the City of Little Rock
specifications for multi-family development.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is located to the west of the Waters Edge Subdivision, a newly
developing single-family subdivision. The preliminary plat for this subdivision
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 16 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8168
2
indicated this area for development with single-family lots. The developers are
utilizing the site as access to the subdivision to limit the construction traffic on
Wasters Edge Drive. The area is predominately single-family residential with a
few duplex structures located at the southeast corner of David O Dodd and I-430.
A number of the homes are located on large lots with acreage but in recent past
three subdivisions have been developed with new homes; Kenwood Estates,
Woodridge Estates and Shady Brook.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. The Stagecoach Dodd Neighborhood Association, Southwest Little
Rock United for Progress, all owners of property located within 200 feet of the
site and all residents, who could be identified, located within 300 feet of the
proposed development were notified of the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. David O. Dodd Road 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. With site development, provide the design of the street conforming to the
Master Street Plan. Construct one-half street improvements to David O.
Dodd Road including 5-foot sidewalk with the planned development.
3. The proposed land use would classify the future street on the Master Street
Plan as a residential collector street. Dedicate right-of-way to 30 feet from
centerline.
4. With site development, provide the design of the future street conforming to
the Master Street Plan. Construct street improvements to this future street
including 5-foot sidewalk with the planned development. Due to the use,
the future street should be constructed to a residential collector street
standard (60-foot R/W - 31 feet pavement) to the future street to the north.
5. 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. Site
grading, and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to
the start of construction.
6. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the
proposed location for storm water detention facilities on the plan if not
provided by the lake.
7. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit
from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 16 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8168
3
8. Turn around must be provided for a WB-30 vehicle attempting to enter
development. A stacking distance of at least 30 feet from pavement must
also be provided. It is suggested that the gates be relocated to the interior
of the site to the north and south sides of the entrance driveway.
9. All driveways shall be concrete aprons per City Ordinance.
10. Plans of all work in right-of-way shall be submitted for approval prior to start
of work. Obtain barricade permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-way
from Traffic Engineering at (501) 379-1805 (Travis Herbner).
11. Street Improvement plans shall include signage and striping. Traffic
Engineering must approve completed plans prior to construction.
12. Prepare a letter of pending development addressing streetlights as required
by Section 31-403 of the Little Rock code. Contact Traffic Engineering at
(501) 379-1813 (Steve Philpott) for more information regarding streetlight
requirements.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension is required with easements. Contact Little
Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. A water main extension,
on-site fire line and additional fire hydrant(s) will be required in order to provide
service to this property. The facilities on-site will be private. When meters are
planned off private lines, private facilities shall be installed to Central Arkansas
Water's 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. 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: Place fire hydrants per code. Maintain a 20-foot minimum
gate opening. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 16 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8168
4
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the 65th Street West Planning
District. The Land Use Plan shows Low Density Residential for this property.
The applicant has applied for a rezoning of 6.5 acres to Planned Residential
Development to allow the construction of 11 buildings containing 36 units of multi
family housing resulting in a density of 5.5 units per acre.
The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan.
Master Street Plan: David O. Dodd Road is shown as a Minor Arterial on the
Master Street Plan. This street may require dedication of right-of-way and may
require street improvements. A Minor Arterial provides connections to and
through an urban area and their primary function is to provide short distance
travel within the urbanized area. Entrances and exits should be limited to
minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on David O. Dodd Road since
it is a Minor Arterial.
Bicycle Plan: A Class III bike route is shown on David O. Dodd Road. A Class III
bikeway is a signed route on a street shared with traffic. No additional paving or
right-of-way is required. Class III bicycle route signage may be required.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The applicant’s property lies in the
area covered by the Pecan Lake Neighborhood Action Plan. The Zoning and
Land Use Goal states: “Maintain and encourage single-family and low-density
residential developments in the residential area of the neighborhood, while
encouraging responsible non-residential development in the area currently
reserved for such uses on the Future Land Use Plan.”
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
3. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, it will be necessary to provide an
approved landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape
Architect.
4. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing
trees as feasible on this tree covered site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape
Ordinance requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch
caliper or larger.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 16 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8168
5
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed development indicating there were additional items
necessary to complete the review process. Staff requested the applicant provide
details of the proposed gate entrance, details of any proposed signage and the
location of all proposed fencing. Staff questioned if the units would be owner or
renter occupied. Mr. McGetrick stated the development was proposed as owner
occupied units. Staff stated a note should be added to the site plan indicating the
required dumpster screening.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated a second entrance to the
development was required. Staff stated in one and two family residential
developments where the number of dwelling units exceeded 30 units a second
access point or road was required to meet the State Fire Code. Staff also stated
sidewalks would be required with the development of the site. Staff requested
the applicant develop the street as a commercial street standard, adjacent to the
multi-family development, to ensure traffic flows within the area.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated the site plan did not
appear to meet the typical minimum ordinance requirement along the northern
perimeter. Staff stated a 23-foot average landscape strip would be required to
meet the typical minimum standard. Staff also stated the City Beautiful
Commission recommended preserving as many existing trees as feasible on the
site. Staff also stated a landscape plan would be required prior to the issuance
of a building permit.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. 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 most of the issues
raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The applicant
has indicated the proposed fencing, provided details of the proposed signage
and indicated a note concerning the required dumpster screening. The revised
site plan has removed the proposed gate from the development. The site plan
also indicates the placement of a second entrance from David O Dodd Road for
emergency access as required by State Fire Code.
The proposal is to allow the development of this 6.5 acre site with 36 units in
eleven (11) buildings of condominium housing. The units are proposed as one
and two story units with a maximum building height of 25-feet. Each of the units
is proposed with a two (2) car garage and ten (10) additional guest parking
spaces are proposed. Two (2) signs are proposed with the development. One
located at the intersection of David O Dodd Road and the new street accessing
the site and the second located at the entrance to the development. The signage
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 16 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8168
6
is proposed consistent with signage allowed in multi-family zones or a maximum
of six (6) feet in height and thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
Fencing is proposed around the perimeter of the development. The fencing
along the eastern and southern portions of the development is a six (6) foot wood
fence and fencing along the western and northern perimeters is a six (6) foot
brick and decorative metal fence.
The site plan indicates the placement of the proposed buildings at a minimum of
25-feet from the property lines. With the proposed building placement, the typical
minimum required landscaping for a multi-family development can be achieved.
The site plan indicates a total of .25 acres of private open space per unit and
1.58 acres of public open space within the development. The ordinance typically
requires the placement of a minimum of ten (10) to (15) percent of the gross
planned residential district area as common usable open space and a minimum
of five (500) hundred square feet of usable private open space per unit. As
indicated each of the units within a patio area will have approximately one
hundred forty-four (144) square feet of private open space and twenty-four (24)
percent of the development will be public open space. Staff is supportive of the
open space as proposed. Although each of the units will not have the typical
minimum ordinance standard requirement of five hundred (500) square feet the
public open space more than exceeds the typical minimum ordinance standard.
The development is proposed with the placement of eight-two (82) parking
spaces. Based on the typical minimum ordinance standard for a multi-family
development fifty-four (54) parking spaces would be required. The development
is proposed with a two (2) car garage for each unit and an additional ten (10)
spaces for guest parking. The indicated parking is more than adequate to meet
the typical minimum ordinance standard.
The site plan indicates the placement of a single dumpster to serve the site. The
dumpster has been located near Building I. No hours for the dumpster service
have been indicated. Staff recommends the dumpster service hours be limited to
daylight hours only to limit the noise impact on the residents of the development
and the nearby residents.
Two building types are proposed. One building type allows four (4) units and the
second allows two (2) units. Buildings A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H are proposed
with four units. The two (2) center units are proposed as two story units while the
end units are proposed as single story units. Buildings I and J are proposed as
two unit buildings. These buildings are single story buildings. The units are
proposed with square footages ranging from 1,300 square feet to 2,100 square
feet of heated and cooled space. Each unit is proposed with a patio area.
Fencing is proposed to separate the patio areas which will allow limited privacy to
the occupants. The second floor of the two (2) story units is not proposed to be
“finished-out” by the developer. The area will be used as storage or if the owner
desires to “finish-out” this area, the area could be utilized as a game/bonus room
or an office.
The site plan indicates the new street constructed to commercial street standard
or a sixty (60) foot right of way with thirty-six (36) feet of pavement. A temporary
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 16 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8168
7
turn-around is proposed just past the western drive and the road will signed to
provide residents information that the road will be extended in the future.
Staff is supportive of the request. The site is indicated as Low Density
Residential on the City’s Future Land Use Plan. This category provides for a
broad range of housing types including single-family attached, single-family
detached, duplex, townhomes, multi-family and patio or garden homes. Any
combination of these and possibly other housing types may fall in the Low
Density Residential category provided that the density is between six (6) and ten
(10) dwelling units per acre. The development is proposed with a density of five
and one half (5.5) units per acre which is consistent with single-family
development as opposed to the Low Density Residential category of the Future
Land Use Plan. This developer is proposing the addition of approximately two
hundred (200) residential lots for detached single-family homes and a nearby
subdivision has added approximately seventy-five (75) new homes to the area.
In addition, nearby Kenwood Subdivision is proposed at build-out to have
approximately two hundred and twenty (220) homes. Staff feels the
development of the site as proposed with condominium housing allows a
diversity of housing types in the area. Staff feels it is important for healthy growth
to allow various housing types to develop in an area. Although the units are
attached which is not the norm for the current development pattern in the area,
staff does not feel this development will adversely impact the area. The units are
proposed as owner occupied units which typically lends to buy-in of the residents
into the neighborhood and provides the residents with a stake in the future of the
area.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E, F and H of the above
agenda staff report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the
request subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in
paragraphs D, E, F and H of the above agenda staff report.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 17 FILE NO.: LU07-09-02
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment - I-630 Planning District
Location: 5801 Asher Avenue
Request: Industrial, Commercial and Park/Open Space to Multi Family
Source: Tim Daters, White-Daters
PROPOSAL / REQUEST:
Land Use Plan amendment in the I-630 Planning District from Industrial, Commercial
and Park/Open Space to Multi Family. Multi Family accommodates residential
development of ten to thirty-six dwelling units per acre. The application is for a large
apartment complex marketed toward UALR students.
EXISTING LAND USE AND ZONING:
The property is the site of the old Coleman Dairy plant and the old Asher Drive-In. It is
currently zoned I-2 Light Industrial and C-3 General Commercial. The amendment area
is approximately 20 acres. The property on the north side of Asher across from this site
is currently zoned C-3 General Commercial for a large strip mall. There are still a few
commercial uses in the strip mall, but UALR has purchased the northeast corner of
Asher and University. This area is shown as campus on the UALR master plan, and
eventually it will all be used for Public/Institutional uses. The C-3 to the west of the
amendment area is another large strip center which includes many stores and several
restaurants. East of the application area along Asher is zoned C-4 with many varieties
of auto shops. The area to the south of the amendment area is zoned R-2 Single
Family and is currently undeveloped.
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN AND RECENT AMENDMENTS:
The site is currently shown on the Future Land Use Plan as Industrial to recognize the
old Coleman Dairy use. The amendment area also includes a strip Park/Open Space
and Commercial. It is surrounded on the south and east sides by Park/Open Space. A
large strip of Commercial is shown on the north side of Asher Avenue across from this
site. West and adjacent to the site is planned for Commercial.
Ordinance 18,373 was passed on October 17, 2000. This was the result of the Asher
Corridor Study as requested by the Planning Commission. In the immediate vicinity,
this amendment changed part of the Commercial to the west of the application area to
Park/Open Space. Many other areas were changed further northeast along Asher
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU07-09-02
2
Avenue with the goal of keeping Industrial uses south of Asher Avenue and Commercial
uses north of Asher.
MASTER STREET PLAN:
Asher Avenue is shown as a Principal Arterial on the plan. The primary function of a
Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect major traffic generators or
activity centers within urbanized areas. Entrances and exits should be limited to
minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on Asher 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.
BICYCLE PLAN:
There is no bike route in the immediate vicinity according to the Master Street Plan
bicycle section.
PARKS:
According to the Master Parks Plan, the application area is within eight blocks of
existing parks or open spaces. To the north is Curran Conway Park and to the west is
the Jack Stephens Youth Park.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS:
There are no city recognized historic districts that would be affected by this amendment.
CITY RECOGNIZED NEIGHBORHOOD ACTION PLAN:
The Oak Forest Neighborhood Action Plan covers the application area. Their
community image goal states a need to “eliminate vacant or blighted structures.” The
housing goal also calls for the construction of new residential units. This application
would help achieve both of these goals with the removal of the vacant Coleman Dairy
site and the addition of new multi family residences.
ANALYSIS:
The application area is in a part of Little Rock that has been fully developed for many
years. Just west of this application area is the Asher Avenue and University Avenue
intersection. Both of these roads are Principal Arterials and have been used for
Commercial and Industrial uses in the past. The Coleman Dairy and the Asher Drive-In
had been in place for many years but have since closed. The amendment area has
been shown on the Future Land Use Plan as Industrial, Commercial and Park/Open
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU07-09-02
3
Space for many years to recognize existing uses. The amendment area is
approximately 20 acres. Most of this 20 acres is either Industrial or Park/Open Space
and only one acre of this area is currently shown as Commercial on the Future Land
Use Plan. This one acre is relatively insignificant considering the large amount of
Commercial shown along both Asher and University Avenues.
The area just north of this amendment area is shown as Commercial and Public
Institutional on the Future Land Use Plan. The Public Institutional is shown to recognize
the UALR campus. Currently there are still several commercial uses in this shopping
center including Big Lots, two banks and a Mexican restaurant. This Commercial area
shown at the northeast corner of Asher Avenue and University Avenue is actually
owned by the University and will eventually be used for only campus purposes. The
redevelopment of this shopping center and this old industrial site will help improve the
appearance of this part of Asher Avenue and the overall vitality of the area. The
redevelopment of the old Coleman Dairy to a multi family complex would help reduce
the amount of vacant structures in the area, which is one of this area’s Neighborhood
Action Plan’s goals. This area and the intersection of Asher and University are in need
of redevelopment to bring investment and people back to this part of the city.
The proposed Multi Family would be south and adjacent to the future UALR campus.
The applicant plans to market these apartments to UALR students and staff. There is a
demand for more residential density near campus since the campus has only limited on-
campus housing. The only other Multi Family shown in this vicinity is west of campus
on Colonel Glenn Road for the Bradford Place Townhomes and Chateau De Ville
Apartments and east at Fair Park for the Fair Oaks Apartments. All of these apartment
complexes appear occupied and in varying states of repair. There is no vacant Multi
Family shown in this vicinity.
The amount of Industrial that this amendment would change is fairly insignificant
because of the large amount of land planned for Industrial in this region. The Industrial
shown on the plan at the amendment location is only eleven acres. There are more
than 300 acres planned for Industrial or Light Industrial east of this location along the
south side of Asher. This part of Asher was one of the main routes into Little Rock for
many years, but with changes such as the interstate the use pattern has changed for
Asher Avenue. With the expansion of the University to the south and alternative traffic
routes, this area is less desirable as a manufacturing and distribution area than in the
past. There is less demand for Industrial in this area. Even though this section of Little
Rock has been developed for many decades, the Plan shows areas yet to develop for
industrial use.
A portion of the amendment area and south of the application area is shown on the
Future Land Use Plan as Park/Open Space. The Future Land Use Plan currently
shows more than 200 acres of Park/Open Space in this area. UALR owns the property
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU07-09-02
4
immediately to the south of the amendment area and plans to use it as intramural fields
in the future. This would extend the UALR campus to the south side of Asher Avenue.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
Notices were sent to the following neighborhood associations: Curran Conway and
South of Asher. Staff has not received any comments from area residents.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff believes the change is appropriate.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant on February 27, 2007 requested this item be deferred to the March 15,
2007 Planning Commission Hearing. The item was placed on the consent agenda for
deferral. The consent agenda was approved by a vote of 9 for, 0 against with 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 17.1 FILE NO.: Z-8169
NAME: UALR Student Housing Long-form PD-R
LOCATION: Located South of Asher Avenue, East of University Avenue
DEVELOPER:
Place Properties
5215 N. O’Conner Boulevard Suite 200
Irving, TX 75039
ENGINEER:
White Daters and Associates
24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 12.606 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: I-2 and C-3
ALLOWED USES: Light Industrial Uses and General Commercial Uses
PROPOSED ZONING: PD-R
PROPOSED USE: Student Housing
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Place Properties an Atlanta based Student Housing Developer is proposing to
develop 192 units on this 12.54 acre site which is know as the Coleman Dairy
property. The project consists of eleven three story garden style apartment
buildings and a one story community building. Exterior finish for the apartment
buildings is painted horizontal fiber cement siding with painted fiber cement
accent trim. The roofs are composition shingles and a 6:12 pitch. The
community building is stone with some stucco, cast stone and wood accents.
The majority of its roof is composition shingles at a 6:12 pitch with some standing
seam metal accents. The property will be a secured site with controlled access
gates allowing only residents to enter the property. Security cameras will be
placed around the clubhouse and at a few strategic locations around the
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8169
2
property. The clubhouse will consist of offices and leasing space for the
management staff as well as a shop for the full time maintenance staff. Resident
amenities will include such things as a fitness center featuring various
cardiovascular equipment, weight machines and free weights, a club area with
pool table, foosball and other gaming activities as well as casual gathering space
for resident use. The site amenities will include a resort style swimming pool,
basketball court and sand volley ball court.
The property will be professionally managed by Place Management Group who
will staff the property with approximately eight full time employees including a
business manager, leasing manager, leasing staff and maintenance staff. Place
Management Group will also employ several part-time Community Assistance
persons who are residents/students that live on the property.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is the “old” Coleman Dairy site and the “old” Asher Drive-in. The
buildings are remaining on the Coleman property and there is a building located
on the drive-in property. The site is located near the Asher/Colonel Glenn/South
University Avenue intersection and area has developed with predominately
commercial uses along these roadways. To the south is property owned by
UALR and is proposed for athletic fields. To the east is a vacant R-2 zoned
property with a creek bisecting the property mid-point. Further north of the site is
the UALR Campus.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. The South of Asher and the Curran Conway Neighborhood
Associations, all owners of property located within 200 feet of the site and all
residents, who could be identified, located within 300 feet of the proposed
development were notified of the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. The existing median east of the proposed driveway should be removed and
striping provided for a left turn lane on Asher Avenue into the site. The left
turn lane should provide 200 feet of stacking capacity. The existing median
located west of the new driveway should be partially removed to provide a
left turn lane into Campus Drive and left turns from the site. The left turn
lane should provide 200 feet of stacking capacity.
2. All existing curb cuts should be closed with curb and gutter per AHTD
standards.
3. Sidewalks with appropriate handicap ramps are required in accordance with
Section 31-175 of the Little Rock Code and the Master Street Plan.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8169
3
4. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the
public right-of-way prior to occupancy.
5. Private access is proposed through this property. In accordance with
Section 31-207, private streets must be designed to the same standards as
public streets. A minimum access easement width of 60 feet is required and
street width of 36 feet from back of curb to back of curb with sidewalks on
both sides.
6. Obtain permits for improvements within State Highway right-of-way from
AHTD, District VI.
7. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the
proposed location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
8. A portion of this property is located in the 100-year floodplain. A special
Grading Permit for Flood Hazard Areas will be required per Section 8-283
prior to construction.
9. Turn around must be provided for a WB-30 vehicle attempting to enter
development. A stacking distance of 30 feet from the call box to the street
proposed curb must also be provided. The entrance gate area should be
redesigned. It will be difficult for vehicles to maneuver through the gate
from the call box location. Contact Bill Henry, Traffic Engineering, at 379-
1816 if you have any questions or desire additional information.
10. Plans of all work in right-of-way shall be submitted for approval prior to start
of work. Obtain barricade permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-way
from Traffic Engineering at (501) 379-1805 (Travis Herbner).
11. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit
from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
12. Provide a Traffic Impact Study for the intersection Asher Avenue, Campus
Drive, and proposed access easement taking into account the proposed
project, future UALR plans, pedestrian crossings, and future uses of the
property to the south. Contact Bill Henry, Traffic Engineering, at 379-1916
for additional information.
13. Provide design of the intersection including left turn lanes, pedestrian
crossings on both sides of the intersection and pedestrian refuge islands.
Contact Bill Henry, Traffic Engineering, at 379-1816 for additional
information.
14. Prepare a letter of pending development addressing streetlights as required
by Section 31-403 of the Little Rock code. Contact Traffic Engineering at
(501) 379-1813 (Steve Philpott) for more information regarding streetlight
requirements.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8169
4
15. The off-street parking located between Asher Avenue and the entrance gate
into the development should be removed.
16. Streetlights are required on Asher and on the street along the east property
line.
17. Provide traffic impact study for all traffic and pedestrian activity. Study shall
include signal warrants analysis for the intersection of Asher and Campus
Drive.
18. Construct eastbound right turn lane into site with 250’ of storage.
19. Reconfigure median islands on Asher to increase left turn storage into
Campus Drive and remove left turn storage currently for westbound left
turns into Village Shopping Center.
20. Reconfigure existing entrance into Village Shopping Center as right turn in
and out only.
21. Remove the parking shown on the access drive from Asher to just south of
proposed entry drive. No Parking on access drive within 50’ of entrance
drive.
22. Provide right turn lane into access drive for stacking due to gate access.
23. Construct sidewalks and rebuild curbs on Asher along north property line.
24. Construct “T” turn around at the end of the access drive.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Relocation of existing sewer main is required prior to the start of
construction. Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional
information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. A Capital Investment Charge
based on the size of the meter connection(s) will apply to this project in addition
to normal charges. This fee will apply to all meter connections including any
metered connections off the private fire system. The facilities on-site will be
private. When meters are planned off private lines, private facilities shall be
installed to Central Arkansas Water's 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. This
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8169
5
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: Place fire hydrants per code. The development is required to
maintain a minimum gate opening of 20-feet. Contact the Little Rock Fire
Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is located near CATA Bus Routes #14 – the Rosedale Route
and #17A the Mabelvale UALR Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the I-630 Planning District. The
Land Use Plan shows Industrial for this property. The applicant has applied for a
rezoning to allow 192 units of student housing to be constructed on the site.
A land use plan amendment for a change to Multi Family is a separate item on
this agenda (LU07-09-02).
Master Street Plan: Asher Avenue is shown as a Principal Arterial on the plan.
The primary function of a Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to
connect major traffic generators or activity centers within urbanized areas.
Entrances and exits should be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and
pedestrians on Asher Avenue since it is a Principal Arterial.
Bicycle Plan: Existing or proposed Class I, II, or III Bikeways are not in the
immediate vicinity of the development.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The Oak Forest Neighborhood
Action Plan covers the application area. Their community image goal states a
need to “eliminate vacant or blighted structures.” The housing goal also calls for
the construction of new residential units. The application would remove the old
Coleman Dairy site and the old drive in and replace it with new multi family
housing.
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. The landscape ordinance requires a nine foot (9’) wide landscape strip along all
perimeters of the property. Site plan appears short in some areas. A variance
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8169
6
must be obtained from the City Beautiful Commission for approval prior to the
issuance of a building permit.
3. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a fifty foot wide (50) land use buffer
between the proposed new road and the residential property to the east.
Seventy percent (70%) of these buffers are to remain undisturbed.
4. Interior islands must be a minimum of three hundred (300) feet in area to
receive credit toward fulfilling landscape ordinance requirements. Some of
the proposed areas do not meet this minimum standard.
5. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
6. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, it will be necessary to provide an
approved landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape
Architect.
7. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing
trees as feasible on tree covered sites. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape
Ordinance requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch
caliper or larger.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed development indicating there were additional items
necessary to complete the review process. Staff stated a CATA Bus pull-off may
be required and requested the applicant contact CATA to determine if a pull-off
would be required. Staff also stated the access easement should be indicated as
a 60-foot access and utility easement to meet commercial street design
standards. Staff also requested the developer provide the proposed construction
materials, the building height and the proposed fencing material.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated a traffic impact study
would be required to determine the impact on Asher Avenue, Campus Drive and
the proposed access easement. Staff also stated a turn around should provide
for a WB-30 vehicle attempting to enter the gated development. Staff stated a
secondary access for emergency vehicles would be required to allow access to
the site if for some reason the main entrance was blocked.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated a nine foot landscape strip
would be required along all perimeters. Staff also stated a 50-foot land use
buffer would be required along the eastern perimeter of the site adjacent to the
service drive. Staff stated interior landscape islands would be required at a
minimum of 300 square feet in area.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8169
7
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. 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 most of the issues
raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The applicant
has indicated a bus pull-off for CATA, indicated the access easement as a 60-
foot access and utility easement and indicated sidewalks on both sides of the
easement. The applicant has also provided a secondary entrance to the
development. The site plan indicates the placement of a seven foot landscape
strip along the perimeters of the site. The site is located east of University
Avenue, the designated mature area of the City which allows the minimum
landscape strip to be reduced to six feet nine inches. The site plan indicates
interior landscaping will be added per minimum ordinance standards.
The site plan indicates the development will be constructed in a single phase.
There are a total of eleven residential buildings and a community building. The
development is proposed as a gated community and fencing is proposed around
the perimeter of the site. Fencing is proposed six feet in height and constructed
of brick, wrought iron and wood. The units are proposed as three story buildings
with a maximum height of 35-feet. The construction materials are brick, brick
and stone, stucco, siding and wood. Three building footprints are proposed.
Building footprint I contains twenty-four one bed, one bath units with a total of
twenty-four beds per building. Building 9 is proposed as this prototype. Building
footprint II is proposed with twelve four bed, four bath units and twelve two bed,
two bath units. There are seventy-two beds per building. Buildings 2, 4, 5 and 8
are proposed as this prototype. Building footprint III is proposed containing
twelve four bedroom four bath units. There are forty-eight beds per building.
Buildings 6, 7, 10 – 12 are proposed as this prototype. A total of 192 units are
proposed with a total of 600 beds. The site plan indicates the placement of 600
parking spaces. The parking is indicated with 589 resident spaces and 11 visitor
spaces. The resident parking is proposed with 190 covered parking spaces and
399 uncovered parking spaces.
A single ground mounted sign is proposed near the entrance to the development
from Asher Avenue. The sign is proposed with a maximum height of six feet and
a total sign area not to exceed thirty-two square feet. The signage is consistent
with signage allowed in multi-family zones.
The development is proposed as a gated community. Concerns were raised at
the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting related to the gated
entrance. The revised site plan has not provided a turn around as requested by
staff sufficient to accommodate a WB-30 vehicle attempting to enter the gated
development. Staff also has concerns with the placement of the call box. The
entrance as indicated does not allow sufficient stacking outside the access and
utility easement. The access and utility easement is to function as a City street.
Staff is concerned with the lack of on-site stacking. The stacking will occur on
the easement.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 17.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8169
8
The revised site plan does not include the land use buffer along the eastern
perimeter of the site. The zoning ordinance would typically require the placement
of a 50-foot landscape strip along the eastern perimeter where abutting
residentially zoned or used property. Portions of this area are located in the
floodplain and floodway of a drainage structure which bisects the adjoining
property. The property is indicated as Light Industrial on the City’s Future Land
Use plan and is not likely to develop with a residential use. Staff is supportive of
the buffer as indicated on the site plan.
The applicant has not provided staff with the requested traffic study. Staff
requested the applicant provide a traffic impact study to determine the impact on
Asher Avenue, Campus Drive and the proposed access easement. The
developers have committed to funding the cost of a traffic signal at the
intersection of Campus Drive, Asher Avenue and the access easement should a
signal be warranted. Staff is supportive of this agreement.
Staff is supportive of the development concept and many aspects of the
development. The development is proposed to fill a housing need for the
campus in dormitory style housing but funded by a private developer. The units
will be arranged around centralized kitchen and den area with private bedroom
and baths. A community building is proposed within the development to serve as
common public space. In addition, the site will contain a swimming pool,
basketball court and volleyball pit. Staff does have concerns with the indicated
gated entrance and the lacking of stacking outside the service easement. Staff
feels the applicant should address this concern by eliminating the gate or by
reworking the entrance to allow adequate stacking, a minimum of 40-feet from
the curb line, outside the service easement.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends denial of the request as filed.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff stated on
February 28, 2007, the applicant submitted a request for a deferral of the item to the
March 15, 2007, public hearing. Staff stated the deferral would require a waiver of the
Commission’s By-laws with regard to the late deferral request. Staff stated they were
supportive of the deferral request.
A motion was made to waive the Commission’s By-laws with regard to the late deferral
request. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent. A motion was
made to place the item on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 18 FILE NO.: LU07-29-01
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment - Barrett Planning District
Location: The northwest corner of Highway 10 and Pleasant Grove Road
Request: Single Family and Suburban Office to Commercial and Office
Source: Joe White, White-Daters
PROPOSAL / REQUEST:
Land Use Plan amendment in the Barrett Planning District from Single Family and
Suburban Office to Commercial and Office. Commercial includes a broad range of retail
activities. Office represents services provided directly to consumers. The application is
for a mixture of commercial and office uses using the Planned Zoning District process.
Prompted by this Land Use Amendment request, the Planning Staff expanded the area
of review to include the area immediately west of the application. With these changes,
the entirety of the Suburban Office would be eliminated. It is thought that the additional
area would make the boundaries more logical.
EXISTING LAND USE AND ZONING:
The property is outside of the city limits and is currently zoned R-2 Single Family. It is
22 acres ± in size and is currently used for a driving range and three single family
houses in varying stages of repair. This area is outside of the Little Rock city limits, so
most of the surrounding area is either zoned R-2 Single Family or AF Agricultural
Forestry District. Most of this area is either undeveloped or developed with single family
houses. West and adjacent to this area is zoned C-1 and PCD Planned Commercial
Development for a small commercial center. Another PCD Planned Commercial
Development is just east of this area for a small store called Twigs.
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN AND RECENT AMENDMENTS:
The area is currently planned for Single Family and Suburban Office. To the west is a
small area of Commercial. On the south side of the intersection of Highway 10 and
Goodson Road is an area of Neighborhood Commercial. There is a large strip of
Park/Open Space north of this area to represent Nowlin Creek’s floodplain. The
remaining surrounding areas are planned for Single Family.
Ordinance 19,257 was passed on January 4, 2005 to amend the western portion of
Neighborhood Commercial on the north side of Highway 10 near Goodson Road and
the Single Family immediately north to Commercial with a required Planned Zoning
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 18 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU07-29-01
2
District for any development in the Commercial area. This ordinance also amended the
eastern portion of Neighborhood Commercial on the north side of Highway 10 near
Goodson Road and the Single Family immediately north to Suburban Office. These
areas are just west of the current application.
Ordinance 18,994 was passed on December 2, 2003 to amend the eastern portion of
Low Density Residential at the southwest corner of Highway 10 and Ferndale Cutoff to
Commercial for future development.
MASTER STREET PLAN:
Highway 10 is shown as a Principal Arterial on the plan. The primary function of a
Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect major traffic generators or
activity centers within urbanized areas. Entrances and exits should be limited to
minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on Highway 10 since it is a Principal
Arterial. Pleasant Grove Road is shown as a Local Street on the plan. The primary
function of a Local Street is to provide access to adjacent properties. Local Streets
which are abutted by non-residential zoning/use or more intensive zoning than duplexes
are considered as “Commercial Streets” and have a design standard the same as a
Collector. These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street
improvements.
BICYCLE PLAN:
There are no bike routes in the immediate vicinity.
PARKS:
The property under review is not located in a recognized Park Planning District and
there are no existing or proposed parks in the immediate vicinity.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS:
There are no city recognized historic districts that would be affected by this amendment.
CITY RECOGNIZED NEIGHBORHOOD ACTION PLAN:
The property under review is not located in an area covered by a City of Little Rock
recognized neighborhood action plan.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 18 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU07-29-01
3
ANALYSIS:
The amendment area is outside of the city limits and near the edge of Little Rock’s
extraterritorial jurisdiction boundary. The area has remained rural and undeveloped
despite a few small commercial developments along Highway 10. This area is
surrounded to the north and west by the Nowlin Creek watershed, which limits the
possibility of expanded development in these directions. This area has been a
commercial node at least since 2002 when this area was added to the Future Land Use
Plan. In 2004, the Future Land Use Plan was amended at the intersection of Goodson
Road and Highway 10 from Neighborhood Commercial and Single Family to
Commercial and Suburban Office. The current expanded application would change that
Suburban Office and some Single Family to the east to Commercial and Office.
Changing this area from Suburban Office and Single Family to Commercial and Office
would increase the use intensity of this intersection. The Suburban Office that is
currently shown on the plan was intended to buffer the single family houses from the
Commercial. This amendment would not only remove that buffer but also increase the
amount of Commercial shown on the Plan for this area. There is currently 5.5 acres of
Commercial, 6.4 acres of Suburban Office and 3.1 acres of Neighborhood Commercial
at the intersection of Highway 10 and Goodson Road. This amendment would add
approximately 15 acres of Commercial to the area. The Suburban Office would be
replaced with approximately 7 acres of Office to the north of the Commercial.
This amendment would be building on the existing Commercial at this location. This
location is the first commercial area upon entering the City of Little Rock’s extraterritorial
jurisdiction along Highway 10 from the west. The combination of Lake Maumelle and its
sailing clubs, the Alotian Golf Course and new residences to the west of this area have
created a demand for more commercial in this area. The existing Commercial on the
Future Land Use plan is all developed at this location. A new commercial development
designed to respect the large lot single family to the east could be a positive to this
commercial node. The proposed Office in this amendment will also need to be
designed with respect to the existing Nowlin Creek floodplain. These concerns
regarding Nowlin Creek cause staff to believe Suburban Office would be more suitable
than Office at this location. This would mean no net change in office classification with
this amendment.
Along Highway 10, Commercial areas exist one to one and a half miles from each other.
Having Commercial at this location would be consistent with the existing Commercial
node spacing along Highway 10, since the closest Commercial center is the Kings One
Stop which is a mile east of this location. Besides these two Commercial nodes, most
of the surrounding areas are either planned for Single Family or Park/Open Space.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 18 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU07-29-01
4
There is an abundance of undeveloped Single Family land in this region but little to no
vacant Commercial land available.
On January 20, 2004, Ordinance 19,041 was passed. This ordinance extended the
Highway 10 Scenic Corridor Design Overlay district west from Highway 300 to the
western line of the Planning Boundary. The extension of the overlay includes the
amendment area and will be subject to the overlay requirements including strict
landscaping requirements, building setbacks, and a limit on curb cuts on Highway 10.
Ordinance 19,257 amended the western portion of Neighborhood Commercial on the
north side of Highway 10 near Goodson Road and the Single Family immediately north
to Commercial with a required Planned Zoning District for any development in the
Commercial area. Like that amendment, a Planned Zoning Development requirement
would be appropriate with a change to Commercial at this amendment site. Staff
believes that the Planned Zoning District is desirable for this location due to the location
near a significant floodplain and single family homes on large lots. Using the PZD
process, needed commercial services can be reviewed to assure compatibility with the
surrounding area protecting both the natural environment and rural nature of the vicinity.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
Staff has received one comment opposed to the change from area residents.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff believes Commercial is appropriate with a required Planned Zoning Development
and Suburban Office rather than Office.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant amended the application to Commercial with a Planned Zoning District
and Suburban Office. The amended application was placed on the consent agenda
for approval. The consent agenda was approved by a vote of 9 for, 0 against with
2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 18.1 FILE NO.: Z-8170
NAME: Pinnacle at Maumelle Long-form Conceptual PCD
LOCATION: Located North of Highway 10 and North and West of Pleasant Grove
DEVELOPER:
LRG Investment, LLC
404 East Kiehl
Sherwood, AR
ENGINEER:
White-Daters and Associates
24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 37.56 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 6 FT. NEW STREET: 915 LF
CURRENT ZONING: R-2, Single-family
ALLOWED USES: Single-family residential
PROPOSED ZONING: PCD
PROPOSED USE: C-2 and O-2 uses and the allowance of a convenience store.
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The developer is proposing to construct a cul-de-sac northwest through the
middle of the property to develop six (6) lots. Lots 1 and 6 would develop using
C-2 uses and the allowance of a convenience store on either lot. Lots 2 through
5 would develop using O-2 uses with the allowance of 10 percent of the total
building square footage to be an accessory uses as allowed per the O-2 zoning
district. The request also includes utilizing the existing office and parking for an
office use until the property is redeveloped. The lots are indicated in excess of
three (3) acres; ranging from 3.01 to 11.49 acres.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 18.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8170
2
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site was formerly used as a golf driving range and there is a single building
located near the southwestern portion of the site. The area has a mixture of uses
and zoning. A number of the properties in the area are zoned AF. There are two
commercially zoned properties located to the west, a site zoned C-1 which is
vacant and a site zoned PCD which is developed with a number of buildings
which allows C-1 uses, limited outdoor storage and auto sales, as allowable uses
for the site.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. All owners of property located within 200 feet of the site and all
residents, who could be identified, located within 300 feet of the proposed
development were notified of the public hearing. There is not an active
neighborhood association located in the area.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. Highway 10 is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal arterial.
Dedication of right-of-way to 55 feet from centerline will be required.
2. The proposed land use would classify Pleasant Grove Road on the Master
Street Plan as a commercial street. Dedicate right-of-way to 30 feet from
centerline.
3. With site development, provide the design of the street conforming to the
Master Street Plan. Construct one-half street improvement to Highway 10
including 5-foot sidewalk with the planned development.
4. With site development, provide the design of the street conforming to the
Master Street Plan. Construct one-half street improvements to Pleasant
Grove Road including 5-foot sidewalk with the planned development.
Pleasant Grove Road should be constructed to a collector street standard.
5. The property shows to be in the 100-year floodplain. Contact Sherman
Smith with Pulaski County Road and Bridge at 340-6800 for additional
floodplain information.
6. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the
proposed location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
7. Pinnacle Place should be designed to commercial street standard with
sidewalks on both sides per the Master Street Plan.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 18.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8170
3
8. The minimum Finish Floor elevation is required to be shown on plat.
9. Obtain permits for improvements within State Highway right-of-way from
AHTD, District VI.
10. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit
from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
11. Due to the commercial use of the properties, the cul de sac should be
extended to Lot 7.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Outside the service boundary. Sewer service will not be provided
by Little Rock Wastewater Utility. Provide details of how wastewater collection
and treatment will be handled.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center-Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. A Capital Investment Charge
based on the size of the meter connection(s) will apply to this project in addition
to normal charges. A water main extension and additional fire hydrant(s) will be
required in order to provide service to this property. Adequate easements or
rights-of-way will be required for installation of water facilities. 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: Place fire hydrants per code. Outside the City of Little Rock
Fire Service Boundary. Provide a letter from the area volunteer fire department
indicating their knowledge of the project and their ability to serve the
development.
County Planning: No comment received.
CATA: The site is located on CATA Bus Route #25 – the Highway 10 Express
Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Barrett Planning District. The
Land Use Plan shows Single Family for this property. The applicant has applied
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 18.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8170
4
for a Conceptual Planned Commercial Development for office and commercial
uses.
A land use plan amendment for a change to Office and Commercial is a separate
item on this agenda (LU07-29-01).
Master Street Plan: Highway 10 is shown as a Principal Arterial on the plan.
The primary function of a Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to
connect major traffic generators or activity centers within urbanized areas.
Entrances and exits should be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and
pedestrians on Highway 10 since it is a Principal Arterial. Pleasant Grove Road
is shown as a Local Street on the plan. The primary function of a Local Street is
to provide access to adjacent properties.
Bicycle Plan: Existing or proposed Class I, II, or III Bikeways are not in the
immediate vicinity of the development.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not
located in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood
action plan.
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. Site plan must comply with the Highway 10 Overlay District Requirements.
3. This site plan will be used for all parcel permitting; buffers and landscaping
requirements to be administered as a whole project.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (February 8, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed development indicating there were additional items
necessary to complete the review process. Staff stated platted building lines for
commercial and office subdivision lots located outside the city limits but within the
planning jurisdiction were to be at least 45-feet from the street right of way. Staff
also stated the depth and width for commercial lots located outside the City limits
but within the planning jurisdiction were to be one hundred feet of frontage by
one hundred fifty feet in depth. Staff stated no commercial or office lot was
allowed a depth exceeding three times the width. Staff stated Lots 2, 3, 9 and 10
were indicated with an increased lot depth to width ratio. Staff stated pipe stem
lots were prohibited in office or commercial subdivision. Staff stated Lot 7 was
indicated as a pipe stem lot. Staff stated the ordinance also stated in the interest
of efficient traffic circulation, and to ensure a suitable relationship between the
street system and the proposed commercial use, blocks in commercial and office
subdivisions were generally to be not less than six hundred feet or more than one
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 18.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8170
5
thousand feet in length. Staff stated Cul-de-sacs were not permitted as
termination devices for commercial streets.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated dedication per the Master
Street Plan would be required. Staff also stated dedication of right of way would
be required on Pleasant Grove Road. Staff stated Pinnacle Place should be
constructed to Master Street Plan standard for a commercial street.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated the developments would
be required with minimum ordinance standards at the time of development
including the Highway 10 Design Overlay and the zoning and landscape
Ordinances. Staff stated the site was being reviewed as a unified development
and each lot development would be required to fully comply with minimum
ordinance standards.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. 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 most of the issues
raised at the February 8, 2007, Subdivision Committee meeting. The applicant
has amended the plat to eliminate the variance request for a pipe stem lot, the lot
depth to width ratio and the increased length of a commercial cul-de-sac. The
proposed platted building lines have been indicated at 45-feet as required by the
Subdivision Ordinance. The site plan also includes the location of the floodway
and the lots located within the flood plain have been indicated with a minimum
floor elevation as required by ordinance. The plan has been reduced from ten
lots to six lots.
The applicant is proposing a conceptual PCD to establish uses and create lots
for future development. In the interim, the applicant is seeking approval of
utilization of the existing office building as an office use as allowed the O-2
zoning district. The future development plan includes the construction of a
915 foot commercial cul-de-sac street to serve the six lots. No driveway access
is proposed from Highway 10 and all the proposed lots will be served by the new
street. Lots 1 and 6 are proposed for future commercial development utilizing
C-2 uses with the addition of a convenience store. The remaining lots (Lots 2 –
5) are proposed to develop utilizing O-2 uses with the allowance of 10 percent
accessory uses as allowable uses. As each development plan is secured, the
applicant will amend the PCD to establish building footprints, parking areas and
proposed landscape areas. According to the applicant, Lots 1 and 6 will fully
comply with the Highway 10 Design Overlay District requirements. Lots 2 – 5 will
comply with typical development standards of the O-2 zoning district with regard
to setback and the City’s minimum landscape and buffer ordinances will be
adhered to.
Staff is supportive of the request. Adjacent and to the west of the site are
commercial uses in an existing Business Node. To the east of the site is a PCD
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 18.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8170
6
zoned property zoned to allow a gift shop. The nearest commercial in the area is
located approximately one mile from this site. Staff feels with the new homes in
the area and the lake located nearby, there could be a demand for additional
commercial in the area. To staff’s knowledge, there are no outstanding issues
associated with the request. Staff feels the rezoning of this site to PCD to allow a
conceptual plan to establish uses and create a plat will not negatively impact any
adjoining property or the area.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request subject to compliance with the
comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the above
agenda staff report.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the
request subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in
paragraphs D, E and F of the above agenda staff report.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 19 FILE NO.: Z-7585
NAME: River Tower Short-form PD-R Time Extension
LOCATION: Located on the Northwest corner of River Bend and River Front Drive
DEVELOPER:
The Hathaway Group
1001 North University Avenue
Little Rock, AR 72207
ENGINEER:
White-Daters and Associates
#24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 3.2 Acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0
CURRENT ZONING: PD-R
ALLOWED USES: Residential Tower – 50 units
PROPOSED ZONING: PD-R
PROPOSED USE: Residential Tower – 50 units Time Extension
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
Ordinance No. 19,127 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on June 15, 2004,
established the River Tower Short-form PD-R. The approval allowed the construction of
a 12 story building on this 3.2 acre site located at the northeast corner of Riverfront
Drive and Riverbend Road. The approved plan allowed living areas consisting of
180,000 square feet while the parking deck had 54,000 square feet of area. A
maximum building height of 175 feet was approved. The floors consisted of the
following: Floors 1 –2 would be used as a parking deck with 50 spaces per level, Floor
3 would be the amenities floor for exercise, storage, meeting, guest suites, Floors 4 –11
would be used as living units at six units per floor and a total of 48 units and Floor 12
would contain two penthouse units.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 19 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7585
2
The layout provided 43 spaces for visitors, staff and event parking adjacent to Riverfront
Drive. Landscape areas were significant with approximately 30 percent of the
development reserved for green space.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant is now requesting approval by the Planning Commission of a time
extension for implementation of the previously approved PRD. Per Section
36-454(e) the applicant shall have three years from the date of passage of the
ordinance approving the preliminary approval to submit the final development
plan. Requests for extensions of time shall be submitted in writing to the
Planning Commission which may grant one (1) extension of not more than two
years. Time extensions shall be applied for by formal written request not less
than ninety days prior to the first expiration date. Failure of the applicant to file a
timely extension shall be cause for revocation of the PUD as provided in the
ordinance.
The applicant has indicated they have been actively working on the project in an
effort to refine and further improve the design. As a part of these efforts the
developers have engaged a firm to provide additional design and consulting
services. All the design changes are well within the perimeters of the previously
approved PRD. The intention is to begin actively marketing the River Tower
residences within 6 – 8 weeks. The developers have indicated permitting cannot
be achieved within the three year as required by the minimum ordinance
standards. As a result, the applicant requests the Commission allow a two-year
time extension of the previously approved PCD.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is located in the Riverdale area which has developed with a mixture of
uses. The site is a grass covered vacant site. There is a single-family
neighborhood located to the east of the site and another located to the north and
northeast. To the south of the site is the Alltel complex and to the west of the site
is a private school and a office building.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. The River Bend Property Owners Association, all owners of property
located within 200 feet of the site and all residents, who could be identified,
located within 300 feet of the proposed development were notified of the public
hearing.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 19 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7585
3
D. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the request for a two-year time extension for the
proposed development subject to compliance with all previously approved
comments and conditions.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were registered objectors
present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval of the request for
a two-year time extension for the proposed development subject to compliance with all
previously approved comments and conditions.
Mr. Jim Hathaway addressed the Commission on the merits of the request.
Mr. Hathaway stated the Commission was not here to discuss whether the development
should occur only if the time extension should be granted. He stated the development
was debated at great length a few years ago and the development was determined
appropriate for the site. He stated with a project of this magnitude it took time to
address all the dynamics of the development. He stated the developers were working
with a design firm to create a development that would be an asset to the community and
the neighbors.
Mr. Sterling Cockrill addressed the Commission in opposition of the time extension. He
stated the River Bend Property Owners Association was opposed to the development of
a thirteen story building on the site. He stated he was opposed to the time extension
because the neighbors were sitting on edge waiting for the project to occur. He stated
the neighbors want the project to move forward or to be abandoned.
Mr. Jim Hathaway stated the developers were committed to building the project. He
stated the land had been purchased and design fees paid. He stated the developers
had already spent a great deal of money and in the next few months would spend
additional funds to move the project forward. The Commission questioned what
activities had taken place to date. Mr. Hathaway stated the land was purchased, design
had taken place, he stated his firm was not happy with the design so a second firm had
been retained to give new insight to the development. He stated the number of units
had been reduced and the building pulled away from the rear property line. He stated
all the revisions were within the approved PD-R perimeters.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
approval of the item. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 20 FILE NO.: Z-6062
NAME: McAlmont POD Revocation
LOCATION: 1814 – 1824 McAlmont Street
OWNER:
Renee Stehle
27 Crystal Mountain Lane
Maumelle, AR 72113
OWNER:
Ms. Wanda G. Mitchell
1020 G Street
North Little Rock, AR 72114
AREA: 0.389 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 3 FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: POD
ALLOWED USES: Charitable or philanthropic organization
PROPOSED ZONING: R-4, Two-family
PROPOSED USE: Duplex Housing
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
Ordinance No. 17,094 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on January 16,
1996, established Global Learning Community Services Center, Inc. Short-form
Planned Office Development. The approval allow the utilization of three existing
1,200 square foot residential duplex structures as the support offices for, and facilities
for services to the public for, the Global Learning Community Services Center. The
northern-most duplex building was to be utilized for the office of the Center’s crisis
intervention hotline, for counseling, and for the food pantry operation. The center
duplex structure was proposed to be the general offices of the center. The southern
most duplex structure was proposed to house the youth center and the GED classroom.
No changes to the structures was proposed, except for superficial remodeling and
repair work, and no additional parking beyond the six residential style head-in parking
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 20 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6062
2
spaces off McAlmont Street were proposed. The residential character of the site was to
be maintained.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Per Section 36-458(a) Cause for revocation as enforcement action. The
Planning Commission may recommend to the Board of Directors that any PUD or
PD approval be revoked and all building permits or certificates of occupancy be
voided under the following circumstances: (1) The applicant has not submitted a
final development plan to staff. Where a staged development plan is approved
the Board of Directors may revoke the entire preliminary plan or may revoke only
that stage on which a final plan has not been submitted and approved.
(2) Construction has not commenced within the time allowed. (3) The applicant
has not adhered to the development schedule as stated in the approved
preliminary plan.
In addition, to the revocation for cause, Section 36-454(e) final development plan
states the applicant shall have three years from the date of passage of the
ordinance approving the preliminary approval to submit the final development
plan. Request for extensions of time shall be submitted in writing to the Planning
Commission which may grant one extension of not more than two years. Failure
of the applicant to file a timely extension shall be cause for revocation of the PUD
as provided in the ordinance.
Per the ordinance requirement of the procedure for revocation, staff has
contacted the applicant indicating the default of approval and setting a time to
appear before the Planning Commission to show cause why steps should not be
made to totally or partially revoke the POD zoning classification. According to
the ordinance, the Planning Commission shall provide a recommendation which
shall be forwarded to the Board of Directors for disposition as in the original
approval.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is developed; there are three duplex residential units on the site. The
site is in a developed area, and the topography is nearly level. The zoning of the
area to the north, south and west is primarily R-4, Two-family and has developed
with a mix of one and two family residences. The units are currently occupied as
residential. I-30 abuts the site to the east.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received one informational phone call from an area
resident. The East of Broadway Neighborhood Association, all owners of
property located within 200 feet of the site and all residents, who could be
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 20 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6062
3
identified, located within 300 feet of the proposed development were notified of
the public hearing.
D. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff feels the approval should be voided since the applicant has failed to satisfy
the requirements of the approval process. Staff recommends the current POD
zoning classification be revoked and the previously held R-4, Two-family zoning
District be restored.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff stated they felt the approval of the POD should be voided since
the applicant has failed to satisfy the requirements of the approval process. Staff
presented a recommendation that the current POD zoning classification be revoked and
the previously held R-4, Two-family zoning district be restored.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 21 FILE NO.: Z-3491
NAME: Albert PiKe Phase II PD Revocation
LOCATION: 221 East 7th Street
DEVELOPER:
Philip Jones
Moser Tucker Real Estate
200 S. Commerce Street, Suite 300
Little Rock, AR 72201
AREA: 0.63 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: PD
ALLOWED USES: Elderly Housing
PROPOSED ZONING: UU
PROPOSED USE: Uses as allowed in the UU Zoning District
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
Ordinance No. 13,842 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on July 15, 1980,
established a Planned Development for the property located at the southwest corner of
Cumberland and 7th Streets. The rezoning encompassed an area described as Lots 1,
2, 3, 10, 11, 12 and the W 125 feet of Lot 4, and the W 125 feet of the N 182 of Lot 5,
Block 27, Original City of Little Rock, Arkansas for a ten-story multi-family housing
project for the elderly. The project was approved to allow a ten story 200 unit apartment
development for the elderly and was sponsored by the Second Baptist Church. The
project included the Albert Pike project located to the west and would be know as Albert
Pike II would allow the construction of a second building. Parking for the project would
include approximately 20 parking spaces under the building and 110 spaces located
immediately north of the project site.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Per Section 36-458(a) Cause for revocation as enforcement action. The
Planning Commission may recommend to the Board of Directors that any PUD or
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 21 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-3491
2
PD approval be revoked and all building permits or certificates of occupancy be
voided under the following circumstances: (1) The applicant has not submitted a
final development plan to staff. Where a staged development plan is approved
the Board of Directors may revoke the entire preliminary plan or may revoke only
that stage on which a final plan has not been submitted and approved. (2)
Construction has not commenced within the time allowed. (3) The applicant has
not adhered to the development schedule as stated in the approved preliminary
plan.
In addition, to the revocation for cause, Section 36-454(e) final development plan
states the applicant shall have three years from the date of passage of the
ordinance approving the preliminary approval to submit the final development
plan. Request for extensions of time shall be submitted in writing to the Planning
Commission which may grant one extension of not more than two years. Failure
of the applicant to file a timely extension shall be cause for revocation of the PUD
as provided in the ordinance.
Per the ordinance requirement of the procedure for revocation, staff has
contacted the applicant indicating the default of approval and setting a time to
appear before the Planning Commission to show cause why steps should not be
made to totally or partially revoke the PD zoning classification. According to the
ordinance, the Planning Commission shall provide a recommendation which shall
be forwarded to the Board of Directors for disposition as in the original approval.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
To the north of the site is a parking lot and south of the site is a church. East of
the site are residential uses, the Albert Pike Phase I is located to the west.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has not received any comment from area residents. The
Downtown Neighborhood Association, the McArthur Park Property Owners
Association, all owners of property located within 200 feet of the site and all
residents, who could be identified, located within 300 feet of the proposed
development were notified of the public hearing.
D. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends the approval be voided since the applicant has failed to satisfy
the requirements of the approval process. Staff recommends the current PD
zoning classification be revoked and the property be zoned UU.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 21 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-3491
3
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented a recommendation that the approved PD zoning be
voided since the applicant has failed to satisfy the requirements of the approval
process. Staff presented a recommendation the current PD zoning classification be
revoked and the property be zoned UU.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
March 1, 2007
ITEM NO.: 22 FILE NO.: Z-6554-E
NAME: Bowman Kanis Retail Center Long-form PCD Revocation
LOCATION: Located on the Northwest corner of Kanis and Bowman Roads
DEVELOPER:
USA Drug
c/o Collier Dickson Flake Partners
400 West Capitol, Suite 1200
Little Rock, AR 72202
ENGINEER:
White-Daters and Associates
#24 Rahling Circle
Little Rock, AR 72223
AREA: 11.85 Acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0
CURRENT ZONING: PCD
ALLOWED USES: Single-family, Office and Commercial
PROPOSED ZONING: C-3, O-3 and R-2
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
BACKGROUND:
On January 5, 2006, the Commission recommended approved a preliminary plat for a
larger area which included this site. Proposed Lot 1 would remain zoned C-3, with
conditions allowing a reduction in the previously imposed no build area. The approval
allowed future development to be construct nearer the “hard corner” of Kanis and
Bowman Roads. The Board of Directors approved this request by the adoption of
Ordinance No. 19,477 on February 7, 2006.
Lot 2 was rezoned from R-2, O-3 and C-3 to PCD. Lot 2 was proposed for the
development with a retail shopping center containing 123,860 square feet and a total of
617 parking spaces. The Board of Directors adopted Ordinance No. 19,479 on
February 7, 2006, establishing Bowman Kanis Retail Center Long-form PCD.
March 1, 2007
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 22 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6554-E
2
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
The applicant’s request is now to revoke the PCD zoning classification for this
site. The site has not developed and the applicant is requesting the current PCD
zoning be revoked and the original C-3, O-3 and R-2 zoning classifications be
restored. Per Section 36-454(d) the Owner may for cause request repeal of the
ordinance establishing the development.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The property is located in an area of mixed zoning and extremely varied uses.
The intensely commercial Chenal Parkway/Bowman Road intersection is directly
north of the site. Uses in this area include a wide variety of retail commercial
businesses such as Sam’s, Wal-Mart, Garden Ridge and Best Buy. Across
Bowman, at the northeast corner of Kanis and Bowman Road is a PCD, which
has developed as an office/warehouse/retail center. The C-3 and PCD zoned
properties to the south; contain a variety of uses including offices,
office/warehouse and mini-warehouses. The area to the west of the site is
vacant and currently zoned POD.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All owners of property located within 200-feet of the site, the John
Barrow Neighborhood Association and the Gibralter Heights/Point West/Timber
Ridge Neighborhood Association were notified of the public hearing.
D. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the revocation request of the PCD zoning
classification and the restoration of the previously held R-2, O-3 and C-3 zoning
classifications.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (MARCH 1, 2007)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff presented a recommendation of approval of the revocation
request of the PCD zoning classification and the restoration of the previously held R-2,
O-3 and C-3 zoning classifications.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a
vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.