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boa_09 26 2005LITTLE ROCK BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT SUMMARY OF MINUTES SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 2:00 P.M. Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum A Quorum was present being five (5) in number. II. Approval of the Minutes of the Previous Meeting The Minutes of the August 29, 2005 meeting were approved as mailed by unanimous vote. III. Members Present: Andrew Francis, Chairman Terry Burruss, Vice Chairman Fletcher Hanson David Wilbourn Debra Harris Members Absent: None City Attorney Present: Debra Weldon LITTLE ROCK BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT AGENDA SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 2:00 P.M. I. OLD BUSINESS: ITEM NO.: FILE NO.: LOCATION: A. Z-3371-0 11821 Colongel Glenn Road B. Z-7893 4409 West 12th Street C. Z-4701 -B 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road D. Z-7901 15604 Taylor Loop Road II. NEW BUSINESS: ITEM NO.: FILE NO.: LOCATION: 1. Z -7847-A 5425 Centerwood Road 2. Z-7924 #1 Rocky Valley Cove 3. Z-7925 1901 N. Tyler Street 4. Z-7926 6811 Burton Street 5. Z-7927 105 Courts Lane 6. Z-7929 305 President Clinton Avenue 7. Z-7930 1417 S. Buchanan Street 8. Z-7931 401-411 President Clinton Avenue 2 Lc) 0 Q) � � & � am C\j ƒ \ 7 } § GO CD � aHO & « mm. %8 S343 OHM� m, ; E( !®0001A) a ^ Ad ' » ~ NV@_J.Lojs � \ « ® __ aAIQ_dsa= , .� _> - � IE . ; e . _ _ a « »e — . q m e ! M08 -NW 3 _. __HS / » » / _, _ am f / ƒ« __y Simn "'LD 2 `_m ! [ % /\ � a o @ ¥ «simn a LO ` * » * mm� . c __ OCT Eq mIH ® > 6� &simin f / + «® m_ ƒ 'ITS . � . � . . � SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: A File No.: Z-3371-0 Owner: Metropolitan National Bank Address: 11821 Colonel Glenn Road Description: Lot 1, 1 -430 -Colonel Glenn Commercial Subdivision Zoned: C-3 Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the sign provisions of Section 36- 557 to allow wall signs without public street frontage. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Branch Bank Proposed Use of Property: Branch Bank STAFF REPORT A. Public Works Issues: No Comments B. Staff Analysis: The C-3 zoned property at 11821 Colonel Glenn Road is occupied by a branch bank facility which was recently constructed. The property is located at the southeast corner of Colonel Glenn Road and David O. Dodd Road. There are subdivision access roads located along the south and east property lines. Access to the branch bank facility is from the subdivision access roads. As part of the bank development, the applicant is proposing wall signs on all four (4) sides of the building. There are currently wall signs on the north, east and west building facades. The sign on the east facade consists of the Metropolitan Bank eagle logo. The applicant also proposes to place a sign on the south building fagade which will match the existing sign on the north (front) fagade. All of the wall signs are under 10 percent of the building fagade area for each side of the structure. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: A (CON'T. Section 36-557(a) of the City's Zoning Ordinance requires that all on -premise wall signs face required street frontage except in complexes where a sign without street frontage would be the only means of identification. Therefore, the applicant is requesting a variance to allow the wall signs on the east and south building facades with no public street frontage. Staff is supportive of the requested variance. Staff feels the request is reasonable. Although there are not public streets along the south and east property lines, there will be access drives along these property lines which will serve the remainder of the subdivision. These drives will essentially function as public streets. Therefore, staff feels that it will be appropriate to have wall signs on the east and south facades, and that these signs will have no adverse impact on the adjacent properties or the overall subdivision. C. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the requested sign variance, subject to permits being obtained for all signs. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (AUGUST 29, 2005) Staff informed the Board that the applicant requested to defer the application to the September 26, 2005 Agenda. Staff supported the deferral request. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and deferred to the September 26, 2005 Agenda by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval. The applicant offered no additional comments. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. 2 0 ARCHITECTURAL SIGNS 2 POINT CIRCLE LITTLE ROCK, AR 72205 PHONE: 501.352.1796 FAX: 501.851.8840 To: Little Rock Board of Adjustment Date: 7.22.05 From: Charles Aitkens RE: Metropolitan National Bank sign variance request CC: To Whom It May Concern: t v 9a % C.nl . Gleam Metropolitan National Bank would like to add th r logo and letters to the south side of the drive through canopy at their branch bank located at Road. The logo and letters will be the same size as the letters and logo on the front of the building. Attached are pictures which show how this has already been approved by the planning commission for the branch bank located on Chenal Parkway at Highway 10 near the new Wal — Mart. Sincerely, Charles Aitkens President DFI Architectural Signs, Inc. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: B File No.: Z-7893 Owner/Applicant: Jae Hun Ru Address: 4409 West 12th Street Description: South side of West 12th Street, between Washington and Peyton Streets Zoned: C-3 Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the sign provisions of Section 36- 557 to allow incidental signage which exceeds the maximum area allowed. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Commercial Proposed Use of Property: Commercial STAFF REPORT A. Public Works Issues: No Comments B. Staff Analysis: The C-3 zoned property at 4409 West 12th Street is occupied by a one-story commercial strip center building. There is paved parking on the north side of the building, with access drives from West 12th, Peyton and Washington Streets. The applicant, J's Grill, occupies a portion of the commercial building. The overall building fagade for this business is approximately 480 square feet. The applicant recently placed signage on the building, over and on the windows on front of the portion of the commercial building they occupy. The wall signage above the windows is approximately 36 square feet in area (20 square feet and 16 square feet). The signage on the windows accounts for approximately 80 square feet (32 square feet and 48 square feet). The signs are of a vinyl/material, but are permanently attached to the building. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: B (CON'T.) Section 36-555(a)(2) of the City's Zoning Ordinance allows a maximum of 10 percent of the fagade area of a building to be utilized for wall signage. Section 36-557(e) allows each business to have incidental signage not exceeding 20 square feet in area. In this case the ordinance would allow this business to have wall signage totaling 48 square feet in area, with 20 square feet of incidental signage, for a total of 68 square feet of wall signage. The applicant has a total of 116 square feet of sign area. Therefore, the applicant is requesting a variance from these ordinance standards to allow the existing signage. Staff is not supportive of the requested variances. Staff does not believe the total amount of signage requested by the applicant is reasonable. The 12th Street Initiative/Chain of Hope is a group effort of the City and local churches and institutions which meets to discuss issues related to the 12th Street area. The group has primarilbeen involved in issues involving the clean-up and beautification of the 12 h Street corridor. Staff believes the amount of signage proposed for this business only adds to the amount of sign clutter in the area and would only go against what the 12th Street Initiative/Chain of Hope is trying to achieve. Staff could support permitting the two (2) signs above the windows as permanent wall signs, and allowing the signage on only one (1) side of the door (on the window) to serve as incidental signage. Staff feels that the signage on the windows on one (1) side of the door should be removed. C. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends denial of the requested sign variance, as filed. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (JULY 25, 2005) Staff informed the Board that the applicant requested to defer the application to the August 29, 2005 Agenda. Staff supported the deferral request. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and deferred to the August 29, 2005 Agenda by a vote of 4 ayes, 0 nays and 1 open position. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (AUGUST 29, 2005) Staff informed the Board that the applicant requested to defer the application to the September 26, 2005 Agenda. Staff supported the deferral request. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and deferred to the September 26, 2005 Agenda by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: B (CON'T.) BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) Staff informed the Board that the applicant revised the application to remove the signage on the windows on the west side of the front door. The signs on the east side of the door will serve as incidental signage. Staff recommended approval of the revised application, subject to sign permits being obtained for the two (2) signs above the front windows. The applicant offered no additional comments. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as revised and recommended by staff by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. 3 -79'13 June 24, 2005 To the Department of Planning and Development, I am filing an application for a zoning variance (sign). My proposed justification for a zoning variance is as follows: (1) There is an impossibility for individuals to see inside the store because of the steel, protective fence that is installed for store security. (Internal structural handicap visibility) (2)The nature of this business is not a familiar business to individuals. Therefore, a zoning variance (sign) would assist in creating awareness. I will take the necessary actions to maintain a clean and orderly environment in regard to the zoning variance and my immediate business area. Best regards, a Hun SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: C File No.: Z-4701 -B Owner: Market Place Partnership Address: 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road Description: Southwest Corner of Rodney Parham Road and Market Street Zoned: C-3 Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the sign provisions of Section 36- 557 to allow an additional ground -mounted sign. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Commercial Proposed Use of Property: Commercial STAFF REPORT A. Public Works Issues: 1. In accordance with Section 32-8, no obstruction to visibility shall be located within a triangular area 50' back from the intersection right-of-way line (or intersecting tangent lines for radial dedications) at the intersection of Rodney Parham with Market. B. Staff Analysis: The C-3 zoned property at 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road is occupied by a one-story commercial strip center. There is paved parking along the north and east sides of the building, with drives on the west and south sides of the center. There are two (2) main ground -mounted signs along the north (Rodney Parham Road) property line and a small real estate sign (leasing information) at the northeast corner of the property. The westernmost large commercial sign advertises Franke's Restaurant, with the other large commercial sign being a marquee sign with the names of the various businesses on the property. The smallest sign, at the northeast corner of the property, is approximately 2.5 feet in height and 3 square feet in area. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: C (CON'T.) Summit Bank has plans to remodel the space at the south end of the commercial building, creating a drive thru branch bank facility. There will be an ATM machine, with canopy, located within the parking lot near the southeast corner of the property. As part of the branch bank development, the applicant proposes to remove the small real estate sign at the northeast corner of the property and replace it with a sign advertising the bank. The proposed sign will have a height of three (3) feet and an area of 15 square feet. Section 36-557(c ) of the City's Zoning Ordinance allows commercial properties which have over 150 linear feet of street frontage to have one (1) additional ground -mounted sign for each additional 150 feet of street frontage. Such signs must be separated by at least 150 feet. The subject property has approximately 240 linear feet of street frontage along Rodney Parham Road. The ordinance would typically allow only one (1) ground -mounted sign for this street frontage based on the fact that there is not at least 300 linear feet of frontage. The fact that there are two (2) existing commercial signs along this street frontage is a nonconforming situation. Therefore, the applicant is requesting a variance from this ordinance standard to allow a third sign along the Rodney Parham Road street frontage. Staff does not support the requested variance. Staff does not view the request as reasonable. The proposed sign would be in violation of Section 32-8 (blind corner ordinance) as noted in the Public Works comments in paragraph A. of this report, and could possibly create sight -distance problems at this Rodney Parham Road/Market Street intersection. Additionally, staff feels the proposed sign would add to an area with an abundance of sign clutter. There is an existing marquee sign on the property which staff feels the applicant could arrange to have signage on. Additionally, the ATM located at the southeast corner of the property will have signage on all four (4) sides of the canopy which will help identify the branch bank facility. Ground -mounted signage would be allowed along the Market Street frontage (east property line), which might be an additional option for the bank. C. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends denial of the requested sign variance. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (AUGUST 29, 2005) Staff informed the Board that the applicant requested to defer the application to the September 26, 2005 Agenda. Staff supported the deferral request. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and deferred to the September 26, 2005 Agenda by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. 2 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: C (CON'T.) BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) Dave Fullen, John Fowler and Gary Dean were present, representing the application. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of denial. Dave Fullen addressed the Board in support of the application. Mr. Fullen briefly reviewed the variance request. John Fowler also addressed the Board in support of the application. He stated that the requested sign had been reduced in size to a height of 30 inches and an area of approximately eight (8) square feet (27 inches by 3.5 feet). He stated that the Public Works Department had no problem with the smaller sign He also explained the issue of identifying the bank facility from Rodney Parham Road. Chairman Francis asked if the Bank could have signage on the existing marquee sign. Mr. Fowler explained that they could not, because only a small portion of the marquee sign was available. Chairman Francis asked that if the proposed sign were approved would any ground signs be placed on the Market Street frontage. Mr. Fowler stated that there would be no signage along Market Street. Mr. Fullen noted that the existing trees along Market Street would not allow ground signage along that frontage. He further explained the need for the proposed sign. He described the smaller sign. David Wilbourn noted that he could support the smaller sign. Chairman Francis expressed concern with the non conforming aspect of the sign. Vice -Chairman Burruss expressed concern with the proposed sign. There was additional discussion related to adding signage to the existing marquee sign and the location of existing and proposed signs. Possible conditions which could be placed on the application were briefly discussed. Prohibiting ground -mounted real estate signs along the Rodney Parham frontage was discussed. Staff noted that this condition should not be placed on the property without the property owner's consent. This issue was discussed further. The Board took a brief recess to allow the applicants time to have a letter from the property owner (agreeing to have no ground -mounted real estate signs along the north property line) faxed to City Hall. The meeting was reconvened. The applicants presented a letter from the property owner agreeing to have no ground -mounted real estate signs along the Rodney Parham Road frontage of this property. 3 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: C (CON'T.) There was a motion to approve the revised application (30"sign height and 27" by 3'- 6" sign area), subject to the following conditions: 1. There will be no ground -mounted real estate signs along the Rodney Parham Road frontage. 2. The sign will be for Summit Bank only. If Summit Bank vacates the property, the sign will be removed. 3. A sign permit must be obtained for the sign. 4. In the event of a future sign variance for the existing marquee sign or installation of a new marquee sign, the Summit Bank sign must be removed, with signage placed on the marquee sign, or seek an additional variance. The motion was approved by a vote of 4 ayes, 0 nays and 1 absent. The revised application was approved. rd July 22, 2005 City of Little Rock Sign Variance Review Board & Dept. of Planning and Development 723 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 Ladies and or Gentlemen, Pursuant to Section 36-557 of the Little Rock Ordinances specifically addressing signage as it applies to other signs within a restricted linear footage along a thoroughfare, Summit Bank at 11121 North Rodney Parham Rd. Suite 14A, is making this application for a variance in said code restriction. Enclosed surveys, photographs, and related drawings will show that our remodeled location is the very southern most unit of the Market Place Shopping Center as it faces east toward Market Street, and is adjacent to Arcade Drive. Rodney Parham Road is the dominant east west thoroughfare within this part of Little Rock. However, Market Street south of Rodney Parham is lined with a number of beautiful evergreen trees. The positioning of trees, no doubt obstruct the view of our banking location from our customers who will be seeking our office. Mr. Vogel, who owns the Market Place Center, has agreed to give up his sign at the corner of Rodney Parham and Market as it is sited on the southwest corner of that intersection. We are asking that you allow such a variance for a low profile, but illuminated monument sign, which would sit on a 9 inch stand, and span 36 inches tall and 60 inches long. A created graphic is enclosed to show the sign as it would exactly appear. Additionally, Market Street as it lays south from Rodney Parham, slopes away at between 2 and 3 degrees, which further reduces the visibility of our location from North Rodney Parham Road. Other drawings and graphics indicate our site location along with a forward positioning of our ATM as it will be placed in front of our banking location and the southern most parking area of the Market Place Center. We ask that you consider the clear visual obstructions and grant a much needed variance for this additional sign. Not only would this assist some Little Rock citizens who will bank with us, but many of our out of Little Rock customers, who are in Little Rock temporarily. Your consideration is much appreciated. Kindest -regards, ohn Fowler, President Summit Bank Little Rock, Arkansas SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: D File No.: Z-7901 Owner: Michael and Amy Zini Address: 15604 Taylor Loop Road Description: North side of Taylor Loop Road, West of Rahling Road Zoned: R-2 Variance Requested: The applicant is requesting an administrative appeal in order to construct a new single family residence on the property prior to removing an existing residence. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential STAFF REPORT A. Public Works Issues: No Comments B. Staff Analysis: The R-2 zoned property at 15604 Taylor Loop Road is occupied by a one-story frame single family residence. There is a gravel driveway from Taylor Loop Road which serves as access. There are two (2) accessory buildings and one (1) storm shelter located on the property. The applicant proposes to construct a new single family residence immediately north of the existing residence, as noted on the attached site plan. The applicant proposes to reside in the existing residence while the new structure is being constructed, and remove the existing residence from the property upon completion. The applicant proposes to begin construction of the new residence on September 1, 2005, with a completion date in approximately 10 months. As part of the lot redevelopment, the applicant proposes to remove the larger accessory building and the storm shelter from the property. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: D (CON'T.) On July 11, 2005 the applicant submitted a letter to staff requesting to leave the existing residence on the property while the new home is being constructed. Staff was unable to approve the request administratively, as Section 36-254(b)(1) of the City's Zoning Ordinance allows only one (1) single family dwelling on any R-2 zoned lot or parcel. Therefore, the applicant is requesting an administrative appeal. The Board is asked to determine if it is appropriate to allow construction of the new single family residence at this location while the existing residence remains on the property. Staff suggests that issues related to time frame for the new construction and a trigger mechanism for removal of the existing structure be discussed by the Board with relation to the applicants' request. (AUGUST 29, 2005) Staff informed the Board that the City Attorney requested to defer the application to the September 26, 2005 agenda, in order to clarify issues related to the request. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and deferred to the September 26, 2005 Agenda by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) Staff informed the Board that the City Attorney's Office determined that staff could handle this issue administratively,. Therefore, no appeal or variance is needed. Staff recommended this item be withdrawn. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and withdrawn by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. 0 x-7701 July 21, 2005 To Whom It May Concern, We, Michael and Amy Zini, currently live in an house built sometime in the late 50's at 15604 Taylor Loop Road in West Little Rock. This is marked 1 Story Frame on the attached survey. We are requesting a building permit to build a new home directly behind our current residence. Labeled Proposed Residence on attached survey. Upon completion of the proposed residence, the 1 Story Frame we currently live in will be removed. Also being removed is the adjacent "Frame" Storage Building and the Storm Cellar. The metal storage building shown on survey as overlapping the proposed residence has already been relocated to the northern most property line.. We are requesting that our current residence be allowed to remain only during construction of the new residence, in order for us to have a place to reside during the construction process. We are fully aware and in complete agreement that our current 1 Story Frame must be removed once the new residence is completed. Preparations are underway to have this taken care of. Sincerely, Michael and Amy Zini u SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 1 File No.: Z -7847-A Owner: James Phillip Jaros Address: 5425 Centerwood Road Description: Lot 114, Prospect Terrace No. 2 Addition Zoned: R-2 Variance Requested: Variances are requested from the area provisions of Section 36-156 and the easement provisions of Section 36-11 to allow an accessory building with reduced side and rear setbacks and which encroaches into a utility easement. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential STAFF REPORT A. Public Works Issues: No Comments B. Utility Company Issues: Little Rock Wastewater Utility: Little Rock Wastewater Utility agrees to the variance subject to the following conditions: 1. That no permanent structure (Walls etc.) be built in place of the awning. 2. That the awning is supported by 4 X 4's and not any type of extensive foundation that may interfere with the existing sewer main. 3. That in the future if the Utility is required to perform maintenance on the existing sewer main you will remove and reinstall the awning at your expense allowing the Utility to perform any necessary work within the easement. Entergy: Although we normally don't allow permanent structures within our easements, in this case we will not require removal or modification. Allowing SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 1 (CON'T. this encroachment to remain, as currently placed and constructed, is contingent on the following conditions: 1. No additional encroachments are placed within the easement at the rear of your property. 2. The awning height is not modified such that the clearance to our conductors is reduced. 3. Entergy is not liable for any damage to the structure within the easement from falling material due to any reason including maintenance activities. Southwester Bell: No objection to encroachment. Central Arkansas Water: Central Arkansas Water has an existing 2 -inch water main within the 4 -foot wide easement on the rear of this lot. We have no objection to construction of the proposed awning in this easement; however, care must be taken to protect the existing water facilities. Central Arkansas Water assumes no liability for maintaining or replacing the installation should it be damaged or destroyed by Central Arkansas Water crews in their routine maintenance work. The applicant will be responsible for any damage to Central Arkansas Water facilities. Centerpoint Energy: No objection to encroachment. Should Centerpoint Energy ever need to access this easement, the homeowner shall be responsible for the cost of attaining access. C. Staff Analysis: The R-2 zoned property at 5425 Centerwood Road is occupied by a two-story frame single family residence. There is a one -car wide driveway from Centerwood Road which serves as access. A one-story frame garage structure is located at the southeast corner of the property. The garage structure was recently moved back approximately 15 feet on an existing slab, as approved by staff. There is a four (4) foot wide utility easement along the rear (south) property line. The applicant recently constructed an awning on the rear (south side) of the garage structure. The awning is 10 feet by 18 feet, and 8 feet in height. It was constructed using three (3) 4 X 4 posts and a shed roof. The awning structure is currently unenclosed. The applicant has plans to screen in the structure. The awning structure is located one (1) foot from the side (east) property line, and extends across the rear (south) property line by 1.5 to 2.3 feet onto the property to the south. Additionally, the accessory structure, with awning, 2 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 1 (CON'T.) occupies approximately 35 percent of the required rear yard (rear 25 feet of the lot)., The awning structure also encroaches completely across the four (4) foot wide utility easement along the rear property line. On July 25, 2005, the Board of Adjustment denied variances associated with the awning structure. The applicant has submitted a new application, revising the awning structure. The applicant proposes to cut-off approximately 4.5 feet of the awning structure (to the edge of the existing concrete slab). The revised awning structure will be located two (2) feet back from the rear property line and extend two (2) feet into the four (4) foot wide utility easement along the rear property line. The awning structure will continue to be located one (1) foot from the side (east) property line. Additionally, the accessory structure with awning as revised, will occupy approximately 33 percent of the required rear yard. Section 36-156(a)(2)c. of the City's Zoning Ordinance allows an accessory structure to occupy a maximum of 30 percent of the required rear yard area. Section 36-156(a)(2)f. requires minimum three (3) foot side and rear setbacks for accessory buildings. Section 36-11(f) requires that encroachments into utility easements be reviewed and approved by the Board of Adjustment. Therefore, the applicant is requesting variances from these ordinance requirements to allow the revised awning structure. Staff supports the requested variances. Staff feels the revised awning structure is reasonable and alleviates concerns (water run-off, separation, fire hazard, etc.) as raised by staff and the neighbors with the previous proposal. Staff feels that guttering should be placed on the awning structure to eliminate any possible water run-off issues. Staff believes the overall size of the accessory structure (with awning) is compatible with the neighborhood, as there are many other larger accessory structures in the area. With compliance with the conditions noted in the next paragraph (Staff Recommendation), staff believes the awning structure will have no adverse impact on the adjacent properties or the general area. D. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances associated with the revised awning structure, subject to the following conditions: 1. The awning structure must be cut back to at least two (2) feet inside the rear (south) property line. 2. The awning structure must remain unenclosed on the south, east and west sides. 3. Compliance with the utility comments as noted in paragraph B. of the staff report. 3 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 1 (CON'T.) 4. Guttering must be placed on the structure to prohibit any water run-off onto the property to the south. 5. A building permit must be obtained. 6. The awning structure must be modified with guttering within 14 days. . 7. Any improvements (brick pavers, block walls, foundation elements, etc.) which cross the rear (south) property line must be removed within 14 days. 8. The awning must be painted to match the principal structure within 30 days. 9. The applicant must have a surveyor clearly mark the rear property line prior to revising the awning structure. 10. If the above revisions (Item 6,7 and 8) are not made within the time specified, a court citation will be issued by the City's Zoning Enforcement Staff. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) Phillip Jaros was present, representing the application. There were three (3) persons present with concerns. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval with conditions. Phillip Jaors addressed the Board in support of the application. He explained the proposed revision to the awning. He noted no problem with the conditions as recommended by staff. Ellen Gray addressed the Board with concerns. She noted that she represented the surrounding neighbors. She stated that she was supportive of the conditions as recommended by staff, as long as the City monitored the revisions. Mr. Jaros explained that he met with or attempted to meet with all of the abutting neighbors. Fletcher Hanson noted that staff condition number 9 should state that the rear property line should be clearly marked until after inspections were made by the City. There was a motion to approve the application, as recommended by staff, with the revision to condition 9 as noted above. The motion was passed by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. The application was approved. 18 August 26, 2005 Monte Moore Little Rock. Zoning Board Of Adjustment RE: Zoning Variance I. Phillip .Taros 5425 Centerwood Road Little Rock, AR. 72207 Bear Sir, T4,,- 4 -7,''�-- I am requesting a zoning variance for an addition of a sized type structure on the back (south side) of my garage. I am reducing the size of this addition to fit on the existing concrete slab that measures 5.5 feet by 18 feet. This slab continues with a 2 feet set back on the East Side property .line and a 2 feet set back from the rear (south) property lime. It is 6 feet from the neighbors' garage to the south. It rests 2 feet into my 4 feet easement leaving a 6 feet total easement width. Note: The easement just east of my property Inas a 3.5 feet total width. In my previous application all the utilities in the easement approved a much longer structure. Ey Reducing the awning to the size noted above. It now will not cover any utilities. ( le: sewer line or water tine, be far away from power lines, and will conform to what is acceptable to my neighbors. Sincerely, J. Phillip Jaros SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 2 File No.: Z-7924 Owner: William David Spivey Address: #1 Rocky Valley Cove Description: Lot 1, Pleasant Valley Manor Zoned: R-2 Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the fence provisions of Section 36-516 to allow a fence which exceeds the maximum height allowed. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential STAFF REPORT A. Public Works Issues: No Comments B. Staff Analysis: The R-2 zoned property at #1 Rocky Valley Cove is occupied by a two-story brick and frame single family residence. The property is located at the northeast corner of Rocky Valley Cove and Rocky Valley Drive. There is a two -car wide driveway from Rocky Valley Drive. The applicant recently constructed an eight (8) foot high wood fence along a portion of the rear (east) property line, as noted on the attached site plan. There is approximately 70 linear feet of fence along the rear property line. The fence does not extend across the platted building lines along Rocky Valley Cove and Rocky Valley Drive. Section 36-516(e)(1) of the City's Zoning Ordinance allows a maximum fence height of six (6) feet in residential zoning. Therefore, the applicant is requesting a variance to allow the new eight (8) foot high wood fence. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 2 (CON'T.) Staff is supportive of the requested variance. Staff views the request as reasonable. The applicant notes in the attached cover letter that the fence is needed to help buffer the rear yard area from light and noise generated by the Wilson Water Treatment Plant located to the south and southeast along Interstate 430. Additionally, the west wall of the single family residence immediately to the east has no window or door openings. Therefore, the requested fence height will not create any natural lighting problems for that residence. Staff believes the proposed fence will have no adverse impact on the adjacent properties or the general area. C. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the requested fence height variance, subject to a building permit being obtained for the fence construction. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval. The applicant offered no additional comments. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. 2 William David Spivey 1 Rocky Valley Cove �_ 2 - Little Little Rock, Arkansas 72212 tt,, (501) 223-4896 -2 71,7 - July ,7 - July 28, 2005 Department of Planning and Development City of Little Rock 723 W. Markham Street Little Rock, AR 72201 Re: Residential Zoning Variance #1 Rocky Valley Cove Gentlemen: We are requesting a variance for our fence located on a portion of the eastern side of our residential lot at #1 Rocky Valley Cove (Lot 1 Pleasant Valley Manor) in the City of Little Rock, to allow a privacy fence of 8 feet in height for the courtyard area of our patio home. When originally purchased, this property had a fence located in this same location. A wind storm on May 20 destroyed two sections of the fence, as the supporting posts were rotten and weak. When we replaced the existing fence, we were not aware that a fence permit was required to replace it, or, that a variance was needed for an 8 foot fence. We are requesting a variance from 6 feet to 8 feet for the following reasons: 1. Approximately two years ago, the Wilson Water Treatment Plant, located adjacent to our lot, put in a new water line down the middle of Rocky Valley Drive, and in the process of excavating their property to accommodate the line, cut down many trees that had served as a sound barrier to Interstate 430 traffic noise. The noise is even worse in the winter months, when the trees are bare. The additional height has reduced the traffic sounds from the freeway. 2. Since September 11, 2001, the Wilson Water Treatment Plant keeps many lights on all night long around the facility grounds, and these lights shine directly into our bedroom on the eastern side of our home. The additional height has served as a barrier to those lights shining into the room where we are trying to sleep. 3. Even though the Wilson Water Treatment Plant refers to it's Pleasant Valley Drive gate as their main entrance, there are still a substantial amount of automobiles and utility trucks that enter the plant on Rocky Valley at all times of the day and night. (i.e., employees, etc.) The additional height of the fence has also served to reduce the street noise from that traffic. 4. The Wilson Water Treatment Plant removed a large portion of trees directly across the street from our property and built a large underground water tank. A 9 foot wrought iron security fence was built around their property, and, while attractive in appearance, does not buffer the operational noises from the plant. The fence is located on the eastern side of the lot, and the adjoining residential property is a windowless brick wall. We would appreciate any consideration you could give us concerning this request. Y rs truly, David and San ra Sp' ey August 2, 2005 Little Rock Board of Adjustment 723 W. Markham Street Little Rock, AR 72201 Re: Zoning Variance Request of David and Sandra Spivey #1 Rocky Valley Cove Gentlemen: We understand that David and Sandra Spivey, #1 Rocky Valley Cove, Little Rock, Arkansas, have applied to the Little Rock Board of Adjustment for a zoning variance for their fence, which is adjacent to our lot, and is two feet taller than the City of Little Code allows. This letter is to inform you that, as the adjacent property owners at # 11 Rocky Valley Cove, we have no objection to their fence being two feet taller than allowed by code. Yours truly, Homer Holbrook (L46 t)U lm�aH o I b r �oo SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 3 File No.: Z-7925 Owner: The Charles and Nancy Vines Family Revocable Living Trust Address: 1901 N. Tyler Street Description: Lot 19, Block 2, Englewood Addition Zoned: R-2 Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the area provisions of Section 36- 254 to allow a new house with a reduced rear setback. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Vacant Proposed Use of Property STAFF REPORT Single Family Residential A. Public Works Issues: No Comments B. Staff Analysis: The R-2 zoned property at 1901 N. Tyler Street is currently vacant. The property is located on the east side of Tyler Street, at "R" Street. A single family home which previously existed on the site was recently removed. Some site work has taken place and footings have been poured for construction of a new single family residence. There is a paved alley along the rear (east) property line. The applicant proposes to construct a one-story single family residence on the property, as noted on the attached site plan. The residential structure will be located 25 feet back from the front property line and five (5) feet from each side property line. A 13'-6" wide portion of the structure will extend to within approximately five (5) feet of the rear property line. The rear 22.5 feet of the structure will be an enclosed single car garage. Access to the garage will be from the paved alley along the rear property line. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 3 (CON'T.) Section 36-254(d)(3) of the City's Zoning Ordinance requires a minimum rear setback of 25 feet. Therefore, the applicant is requesting a variance to allow a reduced rear setback for the residential structure. The proposed front and side setbacks conform to ordinance standards. Staff is supportive of the requested variance for a reduced rear setback. Staff views the request as reasonable. The portion of the home which will extend into the required rear 25 foot setback area is only 13.5 feet in width, and will be used as a garage. If the garage area were a detached structure, it could have zero (0) rear setback based on the fact that there is an alley right-of-way along the rear property line. Staff feels the proposed home will be compatible with the neighborhood. Staff believes the residential structure with reduced rear setback will have no adverse impact on the adjacent properties or the general area. C. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the requested rear yard setback variance, subject to a building permit being obtained for the construction. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval. The applicant offered no additional comments. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. 2 -�- 43 August 25, 2005 -7'7,2- -5 Department of Planning and Development 723 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 Re: Residential Zoning Variance Enclosed is our application for variance at 1901 N. Tyler along with the plot plan. The plan shows the house with the proposed garage and this is the plan our contractor, T. W. Holmes Inc, will use in applying for permits to build our home. .As our architect has drawn our plan, this will allow attic access from the garage via a pull down staircase. From an interior design perspective this is highly desirable to avoid such access from inside the home. This will also allow a single roof structure to attach to the main house and cover the proposed addition and the rear approximately twelve (12) feet of the house which will contain our master bathroom and closet. As you know, there is an alley at the rear of this property and our proposed plan will permit one of our vehicles to park in an enclosed, lockable garage. An additional variance is requested to allow the construction of a fireplace/chimney outside the building line which would extend into the five (5) foot side yard setback. Thank you for your consideration and please let me know if you need anything further. Regards, Charles Vines SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 4 File No.: Z-7926 Owner: Aaron and Neshaja Harriott Address: 6811 Burton Street Description: Lot 51, Maryton Park Addition Zoned: R-2 Variance Requested: Variances are requested from the area provisions of Section 36-254 and the building line provisions of Section 31-12 to allow a carport addition with a reduced front setback and which crosses a platted building line. Justification: Cover letter not provided by the applicant. Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential STAFF NOTE: The applicant, Neshaja Harriott, contacted staff on September 13, 2005 and requested this application be withdrawn, as she has decided not to pursue the variances at this time. Staff supports the withdrawal request. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) Staff informed the Board that the applicant, Neshaja Harriott, contacted staff on September 13, 2005 and requested this application be withdrawn, as she has decided not to pursue the variances at this time. Staff supported the withdrawal request. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 5 File No.: Z-7927 Owner: M & M Custom Builders, Mike Kuhn Address: 105 Courts Lane Description: Lot 36, Block 123, Chenal Valley Addition Zoned: R-2 Variance Requested: Variances are requested from the area provisions of Section 36-254 and the building line provisions of Section 31-12 to allow a new house with a reduced front setback and which crosses a platted building line. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential Proposed Use of Property STAFF REPORT Single Family Residential A. Public Works Issues: No Comments B. Staff Analysis: The R-2 zoned property at 105 Courts Lane is occupied by a two-story brick and rock single family residence, which was recently constructed. The property is located on the south side of Courts Lane, west of LaMarche Drive. There is a two -car wide concrete drive from Courts Lane which serves as access. The lot contains a 25 foot platted front building line. When construction began on this single family residence, a mistake was made in positioning the home on the lot. When an as -built survey was done on the property, it revealed the front (northeast) corner of the structure crossing the front platted building line by approximately five (5) feet. It was intended for the northwest corner of the home to be approximately 30 feet back from the front property line, with all of the structure behind the platted front building line. The northeast corner of the home is approximately 20 feet back from the front property line. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 5 (CON'T.) Section 36-254(d)(1) of the City's Zoning Ordinance requires a minimum front setback of 25 feet for R-2 zoned lots. Section 31-12(c ) of the Subdivision Ordinance requires that building line encroachments be reviewed and approved by the Board of Adjustment. Therefore, the applicant is requesting variances from these ordinance standards to allow the single family structure with a reduced front setback and to cross the front platted building line. Staff is supportive of the requested variance. Staff views the variances as relatively minor. Only approximately 60 square feet of the structure's foot print crosses the 25 foot front platted building line. Additionally, because of the curvature of the street and front property line, the home has the appearance of lining up with all of the other single family homes along the south side of the Courts Lane to the west. Therefore, staff feels the new single family structure is compatible with the neighborhood. Staff believes the reduced front setback and building line encroachment for the northeast corner of the structure will have no adverse impact on the adjacent properties or the general area. If the Board approves the building line variance, the applicant will have to complete a one -lot replat reflecting the change in the platted front building line for the new residence. The applicant should review the filing procedure with the Circuit Clerk's office to determine if the replat requires a revised Bill of Assurance. C. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances associated with the new home construction, subject to completion of a one -lot replat reflecting the change in the front platted building line as approved by the Board. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval. The applicant offered no additional comments. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. 2 To: Board of Adjustments — From: M & M Custom Builders Subject: 105 Courts Lane We are asking the committee to approve a variance for our residence located at 105 Courts Lane (lot 36 of Chenal). The original site plan showed our home correctly on the front building line. When laying the house out it was slightly over the front building line and was not known until the final survey. Because of this we are asking for a variance. Thank You, Mike Kuhn SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 6 File No.: Z-7929 Owner: Melton Properties Applicant: Jamie Garrett, Big Impressions Address: 305 President Clinton Avenue Description: South side of President Clinton Avenue, between Cumberland Street and Ottenheimer Plaza Zoned: UU Variance Requested: Variances are requested from the sign provisions of Section 36- 553 to allow additional commercial signage. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Commercial Proposed Use of Property: Commercial STAFF NOTE: The River Market Design Review Committee was scheduled to review this application at its September 13, 2005 meeting. The applicant was not present at that meeting. Therefore, the DRC will re -hear the item on October 11, 2005 as per their bylaws. Staff recommends this application be deferred to the October 31, 2005 Board of Adjustment Agenda to allow time for the DRC review and recommendation. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) Staff informed the Board that the River Market Design Review Committee was scheduled to review this application at its September 13, 2005 meeting. The applicant was not present at that meeting. Therefore, the DRC will re -hear the item on October 11, 2005 as per their bylaws. Staff recommended this application be deferred to the October 31, 2005 Board of Adjustment Agenda to allow time for the DRC review and recommendation. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 6 (CON'T.) The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and deferred to the October 31, 2005 Agenda by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. b i i�pres s i®rls 08/26/2005 City of Little Rock Board of Adjustment & Design Review Committee 723 West Markham Street Little Rock, AR 72201 Attention: Monte Moore & Brian Minyard 1823 South Scott Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72206 501-301-9031 ph. 501-301-9032 fax http://www.big-impressions.biz swallace@big-impressions.biz jgarrett@big-impressions.biz Re: Ten Thousand Villages Zoning Variance On behalf of Ten Thousand Villages we respectfully request that a variance for a blade sign & an additional window sign be granted. Carrying out the strict letter of the zoning regulation in this instance would not be a reasonable use of this property. To avoid the hardship created by lack of visibility of the business front signage due to the existing landscape granting a variance from the regulation would be in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance and preserves its spirit, and granting the variance would assure the public safety and welfare and produce substantial justice. Thank you in advance for your consideration of this matter. Sincerely, Jamie Garrett Big Impressions, LLC 1823 Scott Street Little Rock, AR 72206 501-301-9031 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 7 File No.: Z-7930 Owner: Paula Baker and Billy Joe Rouse, Jr. Address: 1417 S. Buchanan Street Description: Lot 18, Block 7, Oak Forest Gardens Addition Zoned: R-2 Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the fence provisions of Section 36-156 to allow a second floor addition to an accessory building with a reduced side setback. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential STAFF REPORT A. Public Works Issues: No Comments B. Staff Analysis: The R-2 zoned property at 1417 S. Buchanan Street is occupied by a one- story brick and frame single family residence. The property is located on the east side of Buchanan Street, south of West 14th Street. There is a one -car wide shared drive from S. Buchanan Street, along the north property line. A one-story brick garage structure has existed for a number of years near the northeast corner of the property. The applicant recently constructed a second story to the existing accessory garage structure. The applicant has noted that the second floor addition to the accessory garage is to be used as a play room for his children, with the first floor continuing to be used as a garage. The second story addition is frame construction, with a landing and steps on the front (west side) of the garage structure. The existing accessory structure is located V-4" from the side (north) property line and 27 feet from the rear (east) property line. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 7 (CON'T. Section 36-156(a)(2)f. of the City's Zoning Ordinance requires a minimum three (3) foot side setback for accessory buildings in residential zoning. Therefore, the applicant is requesting a variance to allow a reduced side setback for the second floor addition to the accessory building. The variance is required based on the fact the second floor addition increases the intensity of the existing accessory building with a nonconforming reduced side setback. All other setbacks conform to ordinance standards. Staff is supportive of the requested variance for a reduced side setback. Staff views the request as reasonable. Although there is an accessory garage structure with a minimal side setback located immediately north of the structure in question, the addition of the second floor actually increases the physical separation between the two accessory structures. This is based on the fact that the overhang on the structure in question has been moved up to a second floor level. Staff feels the existing two-story accessory structure will have no adverse impact on the adjacent properties or the general area. C. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the requested side yard setback variance, subject to the following conditions: 1. The accessory building cannot be used for a dwelling unit or in conjunction with any business activities. 2. There are to be no separate utility meters on the accessory structure. 3. A building permit must be obtained for the second floor addition. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval. The applicant offered no additional comments. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. 2 26 August 240-5 L ��— -#+ 7 Billy J Rouse,'Jr: _ 713 D 1417 S. Buchanan Little Rock, AR 72204 Department ofPlanning, and Development 723 West Markham Attn: Monte Moore Little Rock, AR 72117 Re: Request for variance from Zoning ordinance I would like to request a variance from the existing zoning ordinance that requires a minimum of a three (3') foot side yard set back. My home was built in the early 1960's, I share a driveway with my neighbor and at the end of the drive we both have separate garages. I removed the roof off my existing garage and added a play room for my kids above. The lower portion of the garage remained the same with no change. The room addition above the garage did not extend beyond the existing foundation. I was not issued a building permit because the existing garage is 1'4" from the property line which by today's code is non-compliant. I am requesting a variance based on the premise that nothing has changed with the outer perimeter of the existing structure, no further encroachment toward the property line etc... The addition is an upstairs to the garage that is accessible using an external set of stairs. Your consideration would be greatly appreciated. Respectfully Submitted, Billy J. Rouse, Jr. Homeowner SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 File No.: Z-7931 Owner: Central Arkansas Library System Applicant: Ed Sergeant, Polk Stanley Rowland Curzon Porter Architects Address: 404-411 President Clinton Avenue Description: South side of President Clinton Avenue, between Commerce Street and Ottenheimer Plaza Zoned: UU Variance Requested: Variances are requested from the development and sign provisions of Sections 36-11, 36-342.1 and 36-353-357 associated with development of the Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy (Central Arkansas Library System) facilities. Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter. Present Use of Property: Existing commercial buildings and undeveloped property Proposed Use of Property: Library STAFF REPORT A. Public Works Issues: 1. Modifications to roads and sidewalk shall be approved by Public Works 2. Height of awnings and signs must be at least 9 ft. above pedestrian areas and 14 ft. above vehicular travel areas. B. Landscape and Buffer Issues: Adherence to the River Market Design Overlay District standards will be required. Those standards include spacing trees thirty feet on center two feet off the back of street curbs. Adequate site distance at the intersection will be necessary. Four irrigation bubble heads per tree well within a four -foot by four -foot tree grate will be required. Autumn blaze maple trees along President Clinton Avenue is the requirement. Prior to obtaining a construction permit, it will be necessary to provide landscape plans in compliance with the River Market Design Overlay District standards. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 (CON'T.) C. Utility Issues: Little Rock Wastewater Utility — No objection to encroachment. Central Arkansas Water — No objection to encroachment. If minor facilities, such as meters, are found in this area and if they need to be retained, they will need to be relocated at the developer's expense. Entergy — No objection to encroachment. If it is necessary to relocate any Entergy facilities, it will be at the developer's expense. CenterPoint Energy — CenterPoint Energy has a 2" plastic gas main on the east side of Rock Street and a 2" plastic gas main on the south side of Clinton Avenue. CenterPoint would have no objection to the abandonment of the Street ROW adjacent to the proposed Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy as long as 20' easement was reserved for our facilities and a restriction included that did not allow any structures to be built on that easement. Should the Center need the gas lines relocated CenterPoint will be accommodating but will request that the cost of that relocation be borne by the party requesting the relocation. In regards to the building at 405 East Clinton Avenue, our Measurement Department states that the meter for this building has been removed but there is a 1 '/2" gas riser still there. Southwestern Bell — No comments received. D. Staff Analysis: The proposal is for a new building, renovation of existing buildings and signage at the Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy. The property is located at 401-411 President Clinton Avenue, between Commerce Street and Ottenheimer Plaza. This includes the adaptive reuse of the Budget Office Furniture building and the Geyer and Adams building in addition to a new building at the southeast corner of Rock and President Clinton Avenue. The Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy is a joint venture between the Central Arkansas Library and the University of Arkansas. The Budget Office Furniture Building will have some exterior changes to it. The building has five bays (with windows or doors) currently on the front of the building. For discussion, the eastern most bay will be number 1 and the western most will be number five. Number five will have a door that replicates the existing front door to the business with one door and sidelights that is currently at bay number 2. The existing single door to the business in bay number 2 will be changed to a double door to be a design that is compatible 2 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 (CON'T.) with the door that is being replaced. The overhead garage door in number four will be turned into a window to match the windows in bays number one and three. There will be retractable fabric awnings on the east side of the building for a yet to be determined exterior use. New windows will be installed on east side to match existing windows in the building. The dock door on the east side will be relocated to the north and the existing dock door will be filled with matching brick. The paint on at least the north fagade, will be removed with technique as approved by DRC Staff. If not removed, the existing brick will be repaired and painted. Color will be similar to the brick of the north fagade. A new non-functional water tower will be added on the existing steel frame. The tank will be about 14'X 14' (depending upon the size of the original tank - photos have not yet been found). It will be galvanized steel. Historically, there was a water tank in that location. The new water tank will have artwork or a logo for the center painted on it. There is to be an equipment screen on the roof that will duplicate the water tower structure. The structure and cross bracing shall be similar to the existing water tower support. The structure shall be infilled with a metal screen which will obscure the view of the equipment,. The rear of the building will have some changes also. The existing dock to the west will be extended to the east with stairs to the ground. There will be large windows installed (aluminum curtain wall with glass) on the western edge of the building that extend all floors of the building. The brick will be repaired and repainted. The Geyer and Adams building will have minimum changes to the front of the building. The transoms on the first floor will be re -glazed. The basement (which is partially located under the sidewalk) will be filled in, a street tree will be planted in the appropriate spot, with a tree and brick strip. All materials and techniques of installation for existing hardscape will be matched. The existing brick will be cleaned and overpaint removed. The techniques to be used are subject to approval by the DRC Staff. An equipment screen will be placed on the roof to be similar to the screen on the Budget Office Building. See description prior. There are to be three sets of new double doors on back to replace dock doors. The dock doors in the outside wall will be removed. These are to be painted aluminum. 3 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 (CON'T.) Lease space is for an unnamed tenant. Signage will be filed for that tenant when that information is known. The Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy is the new building to be added at the west end of the project. The building will be four (4) stories in height. All three buildings will be opened up to each other and serve as one continuous space or series of spaces. On the north fagade, a painted steel structure will be visible on the fagade of the building. It will be painted a charcoal grey color. Within this steel structure, the new building is primarily aluminum curtain wall with clear glass, which will give the effect of one large glass wall. This is in contrast with the district's historic buildings that are mostly brick with wood double hung windows with clear glass panes. A column of brick is included on the north fagade with the color of the brick to be similar to the Geyer and Adams brickwork. The building also has aluminum composite panels on the facade. On the west facade, the painted steel frame wraps around the corner and supports the large sign. Aluminum composite panels encase the steel frame to the south and on the top floor. The balance of the building on that facade is the aluminum curtain wall with clear glass panels. There are to be aluminum sunscreen panels with information banners on them. The information is shown in Detail 2 and will show all of the past Arkansas governors that have exhibits in the building. It will have a photo (or likeness), name, dates served, and a quote from the governor. These sunscreens will extend from the first floor to the roof. Another design feature will be a series of steps that extend to the old Rock Street right-of-way. The slope of the land drops to the south, so that approximately seven steps are required from the sidewalk level to the first floor level. Rock Street was closed by Ordinance #16,829 (Rock Street is not a public street anymore, the Central Arkansas Library System owns the land it is a private street. They do however have utility easements that occupy the space where the street was.) None of the public utility companies has an objection to the proposed easement encroachment. The south fagade of the new building is similar to the north. This fagade is primarily an aluminum curtain wall with clear glass, which will give the effect of one large glass wall. A column of brick is included on the south fagade with the color of the brick to be similar to the Geyer and Adams brickwork. This mirrors the column on the north fagade. Entry doors face the south. A large tree is planned to be saved on the southwest corner of the building. On the roof of the building are the elevator penthouse and the rooftop terrace. The terrace also has the painted steel structure as an arbor. Rock Street will be transformed into a brick paved street with stone speed bumps. The islands with the two bald cypress trees on the west side of the 0 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 (CON'T.) street will be renovated and changed in shape. It is staff's opinion that the trees should be transplanted to another site and new trees to be placed in the remodeled islands. The ordinance calls for Bald Cypress trees (Taxodium distichum) on north -south streets between Cumberland Street and 1-30. The existing trees are of such a size and age that they will not withstand the shock of the construction. Light bollards will be placed on the eastern curb line to illuminate the transition between the street pavers and the sidewalk pavers. Variances are requested from Sections 36-356(a)(2), 36-356(c )(1), 36-356(c )(3) and 36-356(d)(2) of the River Market Design Overlay District requirements for the proposed development and re -development. Also, Section 36-11(f) of the City's Zoning Ordinance requires that encroachments into utility easements be reviewed and approved by the Board of Adjustment. The application includes several signs: A. "Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy" at the northwest corner of the building facing west. The "C" in Center will be 6'-0" tall and all other capital letters will be 2'8" tall. The lower case letters will be 2'-0" tall. The overall size of the sign is 22 feet tall and 18 feet wide. The top of the sign is 20'above the second level window sills. The letters will be aluminum with a clear coating. They will be pin mounted to the sunscreen. Illumination will be by a series of small spot lights mounted below "History". Since Rock Street is a private street, the sign has a non -street frontage. Variances are requested from Sections 36-353(a)(1)h., 36-353(a)(2)j., 36-353(c )(1)a., 36-353(c )(1)b., 36-353(c )(2)a., 36-353(c )(3)a. and 36-353(c )(4)a. for this sign. B. "Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy" at the northeast corner of the building facing east. The "C" in Center will be 5'-0" tall and all other capital letters will be 2'8" tall. The lower case letters will be V-10', tall. The overall size of the sign is 20' feet tall and 16' feet wide. The top of the sign is 18' above the second level window sills. The letters will either be fritted light colored letters on a new glass wall or aluminum with a clear coating on the existing masonry "repair" wall. If they are aluminum, they will be pin mounted to the wall. Illumination will be by a series of small spot lights mounted below "History". The sign has non -street frontage since its fronts onto the alley. Variances are requested from Sections 36-353(a)(1)h., 36- 353(a)(2)j., 36-353(c )(1)a., 36-353(c )(1)b., 36-353(c )(2)a., 36-353(c )(3)a. and 36-353(c )(4)a. for this sign. C. "A joint partnership by Central Arkansas Library System and University of Arkansas at Little Rock" on the west fagade on the first floor eye level. (non street frontage.) The overall size of the sign is 24 inches tall and 36 inches wide. The sign is clear plexiglass with charcoal grey letters. There is no illumination. Variances are requested from Sections 36-353(a)(1)h. and 36-353(c )(1)b. for this sign. 5 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 (CON'T.) (There is no sign D.) E. "Lower Arkansas River Valley Museum" a tentative wording for the museum space at the northeast corner of the Budget Office Furniture building. On the east facade of the building, the overall size of the sign is 10 inches tall and 16' wide. The letters will either be fritted light colored letters on glass or aluminum with a clear coating. If they are aluminum, they will be pin mounted to the wall. Illumination will be by a series of small spot lights mounted below the text. The sign has a non -street frontage. Variances are requested from Sections 36-353(a)(1)h. and 36- 353(c )(1)b. for this sign. F. "Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy" transfer letters on glass on the President Clinton Avenue side at the northwest corner of the new building on the north fagade at eye -level. The overall size of the sign is 2'- 8"feet tall and 2'-0" feet wide. Transfer vinyl letters on glass. There is no illumination. A variance is requested from Section 36-353(c )(1)b. for this sign. G. "Center for Arkansas History" at the southwest corner of the new building above the door. The overall size of the sign is 10 inches tall and 12 feet wide. The letters will be aluminum with a clear coating. They will be pin mounted to the top of the steel beam. Illumination will be by a series of small spot lights mounted below the text. The sign has a non -street frontage. Variances are requested from Sections 36-353(a)(1)h.; 36-353(c )(1)a., 36-353(c )(1)b. and 36-353(c )(4)a. for this sign. H. "Center for Arkansas History" at the southeast corner of the Budget Office building above the awning. The overall size of the sign is 10 inches tall and 12 feet wide. The letters will be aluminum with a clear coating. They will be pin mounted to the top of the steel beam. Illumination will be by a series of small spot lights mounted below the text. The sign has a non - street frontage. Variances are requested from Sections 36-353(a)(1)h.; 36-353(c )(1)a., 36-353(c )(1)b. and 36-353(c )(4)a. for this sign. "Lower Arkansas River Valley Museum" a tentative wording for the museum space at the northeast corner of the Budget Office Furniture building. On the north fagade of the building, the overall size of the sign is 10 inches tall and 16' wide. The letters will either be fritted light colored letters on glass or aluminum with a clear coating. If they are aluminum, they will be pin mounted to the wall. Illumination will be by a series of small spot lights mounted below the text. The sign has a non -street frontage. A variance is requested from Section 36-353(c )(1)b. for this sign. Detail 2: Sunscreen with graphics: There will be several sunscreens on the west fagade of the new building that feature sketches of the busts of the 6 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 (CON'T.) governors, with their names, and dates of service. The images and text will be fritted onto frosted glass panels. The panels are mounted onto a painted steel frame. The overall size of each sign is 44 feet tall and 8 feet wide. Illumination will be by a series of small spot lights. Since Rock Street is a private street, the signs have a non -street frontage. The top of the signs are 33 feet above the second level window sills. Variances are requested from Sections 36-353(a)(1)h.;36-353(a)(2)j., 36-353(c )(1)a., 36-353(c )(1)b. 36- 353 (c )(2)a., 36-353(c )(3)a. and 36-353(c )(4)a. for the sunscreen signs. Water Tower artwork or sign (logo): A sketch of a typical governor will be placed on the water tower facing the southeast. The tank will be galvanized steel with a possible logo for the center painted on the tank. Illumination will be by a small spot light. Variances are requested from Sections 36- 353(a)(1)h.; 36-353(c )(1)a., 36-353(c )(1)b. and 36-353(c )(4)a. of the River Market Design Overlay District requirements for the logo (sign) if placed on the tower. Additionally, a variance will be needed from Section 36-543(7) which prohibits roof signs. If a logo (sign) is placed on the tank, staff will consider it a roof sign. The project also includes other variances: The sidewalk on the Clinton Avenue side north of the main entrance to the new addition will be stone instead of concrete. The brick strip will remain in place. The finish of the stone will be similar to the finish of the concrete and provide a safe walking surface. Variances are requested from Section 36-342.1(c )(6)a. of the UU (Urban Use District) standards and 36-355(b)(1) of the River Market standards for the sidewalk. 2. Glass awnings over Budget Office doorways. These glass awnings will project approximately 8 inches out from the brick surface of the wall. They will be laminated translucent glass with painted metal channels on the ends. They will primarily protect the door from the weather. There will be a small light fixture above them to provide illumination of the awning and to diffuse light onto the sidewalk. A variance is requested from Section 36-357(a)(4) for the glass awnings. 3. Retractable canvas awnings will be located over the first floor windows on the east side of the building. These awnings will be several feet wider than the individual windows. A variance is requested from Section 36-357(b)(1) for these awnings. 4. Four (4) doors on the north side of the existing buildings will swing intc the public right-of-way. The applicant has noted that if the doors were moved inward, the historic fabric of two (2) existing buildings would be changed. A variance from Section 36-342.1(c )(7) is requested for the doors. 7 SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 (CON'T.) Below are selected sections of the ordinance from which this application will require a variance. Sec. 36-353. Signs. (a) Signs in general. 1. Location. C. Wall signs shall be confined to the flat surface of the building and shall not project more than five (5) inches from the building facade. h. All signs must face public street right-of-way except those permitted on facades facing the Arkansas River. 2. Appearance. j. Letters on signs shall not exceed one foot six inches (1'-6") in height. (c) Wall signs located on or facing public street rights -of -ways or private streets. (1) Location. a. Except as permitted in subsection (b), the maximum sign height on a building shall not extend above the second floor windowsill or above the overhang of a single story building. b. Signs shall not number more than three (3) per business. (2) Appearance. a. Signs shall not exceed one quarter (1/4) of a square foot of sign area for each linear foot of primary street building frontage, not exceeding twenty-five (25) square feet per sign. (3) Lettering. a. Letters shall not exceed one and one-half (1 '/2) feet in height (4) Sign illumination. a. Light fixtures for signs shall not be readily visible from the street or sidewalk. Sec. 36-355. Sidewalks. (b) Width and clearance. (1) Sidewalks shall consist of a seven and one-half (7'-6") concrete walk in addition to a four (4'-0") feet red brick paving planting strip. (2) Sidewalks shall provide adequate clearance for ease of pedestrian traffic and movement. Sec. 36-556. Building Form (a) Materials. (1) Non -applicable (2) The type of materials and their color, texture, scale and detailing shall be compatible with those of buildings on adjacent sites. RI SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 (CON'T.) (3) Surface cleaning of historic structures shall be done with the gentlest possible method. Physical or chemical treatments, such as sandblasting or high-pressure water cleaning that cause damage to historic material, shall be prohibited. (c) Openings. (1) Historical upper facade windows shall retain original dimensions and details. (3) New construction shall have a pattern of windows and doors that resemble similar patterns of facades on adjacent buildings. (d ) Style and form. (1) Non -applicable (2) Buildings shall maintain the distinction between upper and lower levels. Sec. 36-557. Awnings. (a) Appearance. (4) Awnings shall be composed of canvas, vinyl coated canvas, acrylic fabrics or other architectural materials compatible with the building and the district. (b) Location. (1) Awnings shall cover only the storefront display windows, balconies or transom above the main entrance. Upper fagade details shall not be obscured. Sec. 36-342.1 Urban Use District (c) Development criteria. (6) Sidewalks. a. Sidewalks shall consist of a minimum five-foot concrete walk, excluding the first two (2) feet from the curb. Sidewalks shall provide a minimum seven -foot horizontal clearance at a height of four (4) feet from the ground. (7) Building orientation. Buildings must be oriented to the street. The primary entrance of the building shall be at street level on the street at the sidewalk. Entrances shall be designed so that the door will not swing beyond the property line. Staff is supportive of the variances associated with the proposed Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy development. Staff believes the development and redevelopment plan for this property is a quality one, which will be a very nice addition to River Market District and overall downtown area. The River Market Design Review Committee reviewed the application on September 13, 2005 and approved all aspects of the proposed development. SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 ITEM NO.: 8 (CON'T.) E. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances associated with the proposed Center for Arkansas History and Genealogy, subject to the following conditions: (1) Compliance with the Public Works requirements as noted in paragraph A. of the staff report. (2) Compliance with the Landscape and buffer requirements as noted in paragraph B. of the staff report. (3) Compliance with the utility requirements as noted in paragraph C. of the staff report. (4) A franchise permit must be obtained from Public Works for any improvements in the right-of-way. (5) A sign permit must be obtained for each sign. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: (SEPTEMBER 26, 2005) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval. The applicant offered no additional comments. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff by a vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. `D] Z7411�1-4 e ,2- `793 APPLICATION FOR A NON-RESIDENTIAL ZONING VARIANCE — COVER LETTER August 26, 2005 The CENTER FOR ARKANSAS HISTORY AND GENEALOGY is a joint venture between The Central Arkansas Library System and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The Center will serve as a public library which will house under one roof the CAL's Butler Center for Arkansas History, the UALR Archives and Special Collections and the Clinton Gubernatorial Papers Project which will include the Institute of Arkansas Governmental Studies. The CENTER will be located in the 400 block of President Clinton Avenue in the River Market District of Little Rock, Arkansas. It will include the adaptive re -use of the Geyer and Adams and Budget Furniture Buildings with a new addition on the Rock Street or west side. The Geyer and Adams Building is listed on the National Register but the Budget Furniture Building is not. The Addition will anchor the CENTER at the corner of Clinton Avenue' and Rock Street. It will have a steel structure with a stone, glass and metal panel skin. It will have 4 floors plus a basement and a roof terrace. The modern building on the west completes the progression of building periods which begins on the east with its oldest building and ends with the modern building on the west. In keeping with the purpose of the Center, it is anchored in the past but will always look to the future. The Geyer and Adams Building was built in 1914. It has a concrete structure with brick and terra cotta veneer. There are 4 levels total including a full basement. The basement extends approximately 12 feet north beyond the property line under the sidewalk. The Budget Furniture Building has had several alterations since it was built in ca. 1882. Originally built as Concordia Hall, it was built by the Concordia Club to house the social functions of the Jewish community of Little Rock. In circa 1896 it was bought by the W. W. Dickenson Hardware Company then purchased early in the 1900's by the Fletcher Coffee and Spice Company. The latest major renovations were in 1913 by Architect Charles Thompson. The building structure is primarily heavy timber with load bearing masonry exterior walls. A portion of the south of the building has a concrete structure in place of heavy timber, a change made in the early 1900's. There are 3 floors plus a partial basement on the south end. The CENTER will be built to all property lines and may be entered from both streets and the south alley. The CENTER adjoins President Clinton Avenue to the north, Rock Street to the west (owned by CALS with utility easements) and alleys to the 'east and south. The alley to the south will be acquired by CALS. It adjoins a parking lot which is also owned by CALS. City of Little Rock Department of Planning and Development Planning 723 West Markham Street Zoning and Little Rock, Arkansas 72201-1334 Phone: (501) 371-4790 Fax: (501) 399-3435 or 371-6863 Subdivision September 15, 2005 2-713/ RE: CALS Library Expansion Board of Adjustment: The River Market Design Review Committee heard this item at their September 13, 2005 hearing. The Committee approved the application and all variances as filed. Sincerely, Charles Bloom River Market DRC Staff �. z m ¢ w U m W z E W a V 1 pal o, W} LLI j W �WWmo >- Z W Z �c��zmry ujoDo Z W W LI) co Z Or co � 0 m ' LU LL < co < = 2 �. z m ¢ w U m W z E W a o, W W >- Z O Z W W Co W < -U �-Q z��0cn� W Z ¢ O� ry U) z X x m 00 P LL m ¢ Z ¢ _ �. z m ¢ w U m W z E W a September 26, 2005 There being no further business before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 3:18 P. M. Date: L9Z3LU-1 Chairman