CBC 11-01-2012The City Beautiful Commission held its regular meeting Thursday, November 01, 2012,
at 11:30 a.m. at Curran Hall. Chair Wiedower called the meeting to order.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Steve Homeyer Bill Wiedower
Wally Loveless Lynn Warren
Carrie Young Brittany Snyman
Chris Minor Jennie Cole
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Ingrid Green
Edward Peek
Freddie Ratliff
ALSO PRESENT: Christy Marvel, Plans Development Administrator, Department of
Planning & Development, City of Little Rock
Beth Blevins Carpenter, Deputy City Attorney, City Attorney's
Office, City of Little Rock
Haitham Alley, Vratsinas Construction Company (VCC)
APPROVAL OF THE JANUARY MINUTES:
Motion: Commissioner Warren made a motion to accept the minutes as corrected.
Second: Commissioner Snyman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
CBC Case 620-B 207 West 3d Street, VCC Parking Lot
Commissioner Homeyer recused on this application.
Staff opened the hearing for the variance request located at 207 West 3rd Street. The UU
zoned property along the south side of W. 3rd Street, between Center and Louisiana Street.
This site now a parking lot which serves the Hatcher Agency, which is located in the office
building within the southeast portion of this block, and Vratsinas Construction
Company(VCC), which is Iocated in the office building across W.:3rd Street to the north.
The parking lot on the west side of the alley contains 40 payed parking spaces; with the lot
on the east side of the alley contains 48 spaces. The lots are enclosed with a six (6) foot
high iron fence, with masonry columns. Vehicle entry gates (rolling gates) for each lot are
located along the alley right-of-way.
On June 27th, 2011 the applicant went before the Board of Adjustment for a number of
variances. The Board approved a variance for the elimination of two (2) street trees and the
reduction of the street buffer area. On September 1" 2011 the applicant requested a
variance from the City Beautiful Commission for the reduction of the street perimeter
landscape strip, the elimination of building landscaping, and plant deduction, and the
elimination of two (2) interior islands. The applicant was granted all the requested
variances, with the exception of the interior islands being eliminated. The applicant also
proposed and donated, four thousand four hundred ten dollars and thirty-two cents ($
4,410.32) to the City of Little Rock, Tree Fund. Upon construction of the approved
parking lot, additional utilities were found. The applicant then located all of the required
street trees within the perimeter planting strip. Upon site inspection for final certificate of
occupancy the site was put on notice to reapply since the plants were not put in per the
landscape plan.
On April 30'', 2012 the applicant went before the Board of Adjustment requesting to
Plant the street trees in planters. City staff was not in support of the tree planters. The
Board of Adjustment recommended deferral of the application based upon staffs feedback.
On May 21St, 2012 the Board granted another deferral on the application. On June 25th the
Board approved another deferral on the application. On July 30th, 2012 the applicant
addressed the Board of Adjustment noting that AT& T, Centerpoint Energy, and Entergy
had utility lines in the area where the street trees are required. Mr. Hai noted the
relocation of all those utilities was very, very expensive. The Board of Adjustment
instructed Mr. Haitham to submit alternative plans for the issue, to work with city staff, and
to have something submitted within two (2) weeks. The applicant was then deferred to the
August 27t", 2012 meeting.
The applicant submitted a plan to staff on August 9th, 2012, proposing to install
additional landscaping (trees) within another parking lot located at the northwest corner of
West 3ra and Louisiana Streets. The new landscaping is proposed in lieu of planting the
street trees at 207 W. 3ra Street. The lot at the northwest corner of W. 3ra and Louisiana
Streets has the same ownership as the 207 W. 3ra Street property. The applicant was
granted a variance from the development provisions of Section 36-342.1(5.) to not plan any
street trees at 207 W. 3ra Street. The applicant submitted an amended plan for planting the
trees in lieu of the required street trees. The applicant had planted eight (8) additional trees
within the interior/perimeter landscaped areas of the site. The a plicant will also plant six
(6) more trees within the existing landscaped beds across W. 3' Street to the north
(northwest corner of W.3ra and Louisiana Streets). The applicant will also make a two -
thousand dollar ($2,000.00) contribution to the City's Tree Fund. The Board of
Adjustment approved the proposal with the two (2) following conditions: 1. The amended
application/plan must be approved by the City Beautiful Commission and 2. The trees at
the northwest corner of W. P. and Louisiana Streets must be installed within the thirty
(30) days of the final approval.
Therefore, the applicant is now requesting approval of the revised landscape plan. The
applicant ran into an unforeseen utility easement area creating a hardship. All of the trees
shown on the originally approved Iandscape plan are on the site; they are simply relocated
and not within the public right-of-way (street tree area). The applicant is proposing to plant
additional trees on the property across the street and make another donation to the City of
Little Rock, Tree Fund. Staff feels the applicant has improved a downtown site and has
tried to meet the intention of the landscape ordinance.
Staff is supportive of the requested variance and thus recommends approval of the
application.
Chair Wiedower inquired the applicant, Mr. Haitharn Alley, if he had anything additional
to add. Mr. Haitham responded that he did not have anything; to add. Chair Wiedower
noted that he was glad to see the applicant come up with anol:her solution that included city
staff support and the upgrade of another site, downtown. Chair Wiedower noted, he felt it
was a good remedy for this issue. Commissioner Cole inquired about the utility lines not
being shown on the original legal survey given to city staff far review. The applicant noted
the surveyor missed the utilities and thus they were not initially shown on the legal survey.
It wasn't until they begin to excavate the area that the utilities were discovered,
Commissioner Loveless inquired about Pagis and the use of the data. It was noted Pagis
was not reviewed. Commissioner Warren inquired about the plant materials.
Commissioner Warren noted she'd visited the site prior to arriving at the meeting today and
noticed the sidewalks being slender in width. Commissioner Minor noted it would've been
nice if the landscaping could've been planted on this site of fence.
Motion: Commissioner Warren made a motion to accept the recommendation by city staff
to approve this application.
Second: Commissioner Minor seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
New CBC member, Mr. Wally Loveless was introduced.
The re -appointment of Mr. Steve Homeyer was announcegD
Commissioner Warren passed the CBC Contact List out forupdates.
Commissioner Minor noted contact information would also be needed for CBC business
card.(
Commissioner Loveless indicated an interest in the City's Public Right -of --Ways.
Commissioner Loveless said lie worked as a Realtor in the City of Little Rock and the
cleanliness and curb appeal of our city public right-of-ways was important. Chair
Wiedower noted that the Adopt -A -Street Committee Chair was vacant at the moment and it
sounded like something Commissioner Loveless may have an interest in. Commissioner
Minor also noted interest and will work on the Adopt -A -Street Committee for now; until
either the retreat or until someone else wants to take on.
Commissioner Warren updated Commissioner Loveless about the Adopt -A -Street program.
° It was noted the Rotary Clubs and Realtors maybe good groups to a adoption of our city streets for trash pick-up. y g g P approach about the
TREASURER'S REPORT: Commissioner Snyman noted no changes in either of the CBC
accounts. To date the balance in the Centennial Bank Account is $1297.05. Commissioner
Snyman will contact Mrs. Venita Harris in the Planning Department about the city fund balance
and report it via email to the Commission.
Discussion commenced on ordering new CBC logo shirts. It was noted those would need to be
Purchased with the CBC account instead of the City Account.
COMMITTEE REPORTS: UPDATES:
OLD BUSINESS:
Community Projects
I-630 Trees (Minor, Marvel) -Commissioner Minor noted that his Committee partner is now off
the CBC; therefore, direction on the process or what to do next would be appreciated. Hated Assistant City Manager, Bryan Day, would be attending a CBC meeting soon so pe t a
getting direction from Mr. Day would be an option. Commissioner Warren described briefly the
committee's goal(s) and noted this project can be added to the CBC Retreat Agenda perhaps.
' L0 to Warren -Chair Wiedower noted the CBC website continues to look great.
Commissioner Warren mentioned Meg Matthews took photos of the 2012 CBC Landscape
Awards and had planned to send them to city staff Christy Marvel. Staff Hated no photographs
have been sent to date. Commissioner Warren noted city staff,
Christy , had given her a
certified Ietter from Aristotle. Aristotle is the company that handless the BCC wla
ebs .The letter
notes some changes; however, it's unclear whether or not additional charges will be incurred.
Commissioner Warren noted she would investigate further and get back to the CBC via email if
any new information is gathered.
Libra Exhibit- So man -The schedule for the exhibit was discussed. It was noted
Commissioner Bell has a key that needed to be returned. It was noted the exhibit is on the
schedule for the month of December. Christy Marvel, city staff, noted the coordination of that
exhibit is to be done with the Planning & Development Department staff. The display case was
briefly discussed. It was noted Bryan Day, Assistant City Manager, would likely have
information on someone to contact at the State House Conference Center.
KLRB iedower - Wiedower -Chair Wiedower noted plans to begin attendance due to his
schedule changing; allowing him to be in Little Rock more.
Ado t-A-Street Miner and Voun _ Commissioner Minor noted this upcoming weekend is the
scheduled Pick up date. Commissioner Minor noted it would be optimal to come up with a better
system that could be implemented that would increase participation. A sign up sheet was
discussed that would list the annual dates for trash pick-up. Each CBC ;member could then ick
p
t'No (2) or three (3) times within the year to participate. Recycling was discussed briefly.
Commissioner Minor noted he would coordinate the pick up for now and would email everyone
about any changes; i.e. Inclement weather, not enough involvement, etc. Areas of heavy trash
were discussed; it was noted code enforcement can be called to turn in complaints.
Communications- WON - It was noted the Democrat/Gazette published the 2012 CBC
Landscape Awards. Published Saturday, October 27'i', 2012, Editorial Page (7B).
Landscape Awards Home er - Commissioner Homeyer noted the 2412 CB
C Landscape
Awards went good. All three (3) awardees were shocked and happy to be winners The Mayor
had each Board Member from the respective wards present the award. Commissioner Warren
described the Landscape Awards. Commissioner Loveless inquired about the K-Mart site on
more landscaping. Commissioner Snyman requested copies of the newspaper ads be
Rodney Parham. Discussion coznmenced on ways to encourage existing businesses to install
included
the minutes City staff noted the minutes include the publisher, date, pages, etc. currently. in
Landmark Award iedower -Chair Wi
daughter and widow of Mr. edower noted the Landmark was presented to the
Rick Redden, AIA. It was noted that City Board member, Dean
Kumpuris and developer, Jimmy Moses both spoke on his behalf. Kate East, daughter of Mr.
Redden, accepted the award and was very grateful. It was noted the stone city staff had for
display/questions was used for this particular award; however, Custom Trophies is supposed to
have additional rocks that have already been paid however, mounting and the plaque
cost additional. aid fhwill
CBC Business Cards Minor -Commissioner Minor presented the CBC with personal business
cards. An invoice was given to city staff to give to Mrs. Venita Harris. It was noted all the CBC
will also need business cards.
Chair Weidower asked if additional bags, pick; up tools, vests, etc. are needed to order prior to
the end of the year. The balance from the City Account was questioned. Commissioner Snyman
noted she'd be unable to make contact.City staff, Christy Marvel, denoted the main phone
number for Planning & Development; 501-371-4790Commissioner Snyman noted she would
make contact and let everyone know the current amount in that account via email.
Motion: Commissioner Warren made a motion to allow Commissioner Homeyer the money,u
to ($300.40) three -hundred dollars, to purchase landscape award signs and frames for next
landscape awards. years
Second: Commissioner Young seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
All CBC members were encouraged to bring their estimates for things that need to be purchased
prior to the end of the year.
NEW BUSINESS:
E e of the Beholder_ Your - Commissioner Young noted interest in expanding the Eye of the
Beholder Award. Firstly, expanding its eligibility dates to include year around Secondly,
expanding what types of landscapes would be applicable. For example, the intersection of Daisy
Bates and Cumberland is one that she would like to nominate. Having seasonal photographs for
the website was also discussed. It was noted all enhancements can he recognized. one issue
discussed was having a competition between city wards, recognizing the best one or two sites
that are a "gem" in the particular ward. It was decided that could further be discussed at the
retreat coming up in January. Commissioner Warren noted that the dates for the Eye of the
Award could simply be removed that Iimit the eligibility currently.
Motion: Commissioner Young made a motion to change the timeline on the website or to make
it all year long.
Second: Commissioner Warren seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
2012 CBC Calendar of Meetin Dates:
Commissioner Warren noted the date needed to be changed for the January 3rd, 2014 date to
January 2"d, 20I4.
Motion: Commissioner Minor made a motion to accept the 2012 CBC Calendar as proposed by
city staff with the one date changed as noted.
Second: Commissioner Warren seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Commissioner Homeyer noted an article that he'd seen about Curran Hall {the building being
occupied at the moment) being haunted. The article had noted the original owner of the building
had passed away in the structure, The City of Little Rock was also noted as bung number five
(5) in livability recently. In addition to being noted in the top ten (10) places to live
economically.
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion: Commissioner Homeyer made a motion to adjourn.
Second: Commissioner Young seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:59 p.m.
MEETING NOTICE
November 1, 2012
THE CITY BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION WILL HOLD ITS REGULAR MEETING AT 1 1:30 A.M. ON THURSDAY
November 1, 2012, IN CURRAN HALL (615 E CAPITOL AVE, LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201)
AGENDA
CALL TO ORDER:
ROLL CALL: BILL
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: CHRISTY
Oct. 4, 2012
VARIANCE REQUESTS: CBC Case 620-B 207 West 31d, VCC Parking Lot
Introduction of new CBC members: Ed Peek, Wally Loveless, Ingrid Green, and Steve Homeyer
TREASURER'S REPORT:
• EXPENSES REPORT
BRITTANY
COMMITTEE REPORT: UPDATES
• COMMUNITY PROJECTS
0 1-630 TREES
o CITY HALL SOUTH YARD
CHRIS
• PUBLIC RELATIONS
STEVE/LYNN
o WEBSITE
0 LIBRARY EXHIBIT/ HISTORY EXHIBIT
LYNN
• KLRB (UPDATE) (4th Wed / Noon)
BRITTANY
• ADOPT -A -STREET COORDINATORS
BILL
• INFORMATION / COMMUNICATION
?
• EYE OF THE BEHOLDER
JENNIE
• LANDSCAPE AWARDS
CARRIE
• LANDMARK AWARD
STEVE
BILL
NEW BUSINESS:
• CBC 2013 Calendar of Meeting Dates
• EOB CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS DISCUSSION
• STAFF UPDATE(S):
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
■ NEXT MEETING - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6th, 2012
LITTER PICK UP - SATURDAY, November 3rd, 2012 (8:30 am)
ADJOURNMENT
MEETING NOTICE
November 1, 2012
THE CITY BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION WILL HOLD ITS REGULAR MEETING AT 1 1:30 A.M. ON THURSDAY
November 1, 2012, IN CURRAN HALL (615 E CAPITOL AVE, LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201)
AGENDA
CALL TO ORDER:
ROLL CALL: BILL
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: CHRISTY
Oct. 4, 2012
VARIANCE REQUESTS: CBC Case 620-B 207 West 31d, VCC Parking Lot
Introduction of new CBC members: Ed Peek, Wally Loveless, Ingrid Green, and Steve Homeyer
TREASURER'S REPORT:
• EXPENSES REPORT
BRITTANY
COMMITTEE REPORT: UPDATES
■ COMMUNITY PROJECTS
0 1-630 TREES
o CITY HALL SOUTH YARD
CHRIS
• PUBLIC RELATIONS
STEVE/LYNN
o WEBSITE
0 LIBRARY EXHIBIT/ HISTORY EXHIBIT
LYNN
• KLRB (UPDATE) (4th Wed / Noon)
BRITTANY
■ ADOPT -A -STREET COORDINATORS
BILL
• INFORMATION / COMMUNICATION
?
• EYE OF THE BEHOLDER
JENNIE
• LANDSCAPE AWARDS
CARRIE
• LANDMARK AWARD
STEVE
BILL
NEW BUSINESS:
• EOB CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS DISCUSSION
• STAFF UPDATE(S):
ANNOUNCE ENTS:
e
• NEXT MEETING - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6th, 2012
• LITTER PICK UP - SATURDAY, November 3rd, 2012 (8:30 am)
ADJOURNMENT
November 01, 2012
ITEM NO. I - C.B.C. 620-B - OLD MATTERS
Applicant:
Address:
Description;
MM ANCE RE UIREMENTS:
Greg Hatcher & Haitham Alley (VCC), Owners
Jeff Horton & Jennifer Herron, Agents
Joint Parking Lot(s)
207 W. 3rd Street
Lots 1,2,11,12, and part of Lot 10, Block 83,
Original City of LR
1. The approved landscape plan implemented, installed, and maintained as per the
approved landscape plan by the City Beautiful Commission,
VARIANCE RE UESTED:
a. Alteration to the approved landscape plan.
FINDINGS:
The UU zoned property along the south side of W, 3�d Street, between Center and
Louisiana Street. This site now a parking lot which serves the Hatcher Agency, which is
Iocated in the office building within the southeast portion of this block, and Vratsinas
Construction Company(VCC), which is Iocated in the office building across W. 3'd Street
to the north. The parking lot on the west side of the alley contains 40 paved parking
spaces; with the lot on the east side of the alley contains 48 spaces. The lots are enclosed
with a six (6) foot high iron fence, with masonry columns. Vehicle entry gates (rollin
gates) for each Iot are located along the alley right-of-way. g
On June 27th, 2011 the applicant went before the Board of Adjustment variances. The Board approved a variance fvr the elimination of two (2) street trees and the
reduction of the street buffer area. On September 14 2011 the applicant requested a
variance from the City Beautiful Commission for the reduction of the street perimeter
landscape strip, the elimination of building landscaping, and plant deduction, and the
elimination of two (2) interior islands. The applicant was granted all the requested
variances, with the exception of the interior islands being eliminated. The applicant also
Proposed and donated, four thousand four hundred ten dollars ang thirty-two cents ($
�- A
4,4I0.32) to the City of Little Rock, Tree Fund,
parking lot, additional utilities were found. The applicant then located all of thnstruction Of the e required
street trees within the perimeter planting stri q red
occupancy the site was put on notice to reapply since th a IIans yere notction for put final ner cote of
landscape plan. p p the
On April 3&, 2012 the applicant went before the Board of Adjustment requesting to
plant the street trees in planters. City staff was not in support of the tree planters. The
Board of Adjustment recommended deferral of the application based upon staffs feedback,
On May 21 "' 2012 the Board granted another deferral on the application. On June 25'h the
Board approved another deferral on the application. On July 30'h, 2012 the applicant
addressed the Board of Adjustment noting that AT& T, Centerpoint Energy, and Entergy
had utility lines in the area where the street trees are required. Mr. Haitham noted the
relocation of all those utilities was very, very expensive. The Board of Adjustment
instructed Mr. Haitham to submit alternative plans for the issue, to work with citystaff an
to have something submitted within two (2) weeks. The applicant was then d d
August 27 , 2012 meeting. eferred to the
The applicant submitted a plan to sta on August Ph�the
012, proposing to install
additional landscaping (trees) within
parking lot no
corner of West P and
Louisiana Streets. The new landscaping is proposed in lieu of planting the street trees at
207 W. 3'd Street. The lot at the northwest corner of W. 3`� same ownership as the 207 W. 3d Street and Louisiana Streets has the
from the development provisions of Sectin property. 42.1(5 )tolot plan aricant was my street treesanted a a t 2
W. 3'� Street. The applicant submitted an amended plan for planting the trees in lieuat 207
required street trees. The applicant had planted eight (8) additional trees within theof the
interior/perimeter landscaped areas of the site. The ap licant will also la
trees within the existing landscaped beds across W. 3"`� p more
Of W.3�d and Louisiana Streets}. The applicant will also make o t�orth (northwest corner
llar
($2,000.00) contribution to the City's Tree Fund. The Board of Adjustmenat approved the
Proposal with the two (2) following conditions; 1. The amended application/plan n must be
approved by the City Beautiful Commission and 2, The trees at the northwest corner of W.
3 . and Louisiana Streets must be installed within the thirty (30) days of the final approval.
Therefore, the applicant is now requesting approval of the revised landscape plan, The
applicant ran into an unforeseen utility easement area creating a hardship. All of the trees
shown on the originally approved landscape plan are on the site; they are simply relocated
and not within the public right-of-way (street tree area). The applicant is proposing to plant
additional trees on the property across the street and make another donation to the Cityof
Little Rock, Tree Fund. Staff feels the applicant has improved a downtown site and has
tried to meet the intention of the landscape ordinance.
Staff is supportive of the requested variance and thus recommends approval of the
application.
STAATIQN:
Staff recommends approval of the requested application.
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TERRY BURRUSS ARCHITECT, INC. METROPOLIp D Box 801pONAL BANK 4559
614 CENTER STREET LITTLE ROCK AR 72203 81.124-620
LITTLE ROCK. AR 72201
.. r0 THE
ORDER OF
$'300.00
City of Little Rock
In
MEMO
Tree Fund
n"004 5 591I' =: rr:08 200 1214 0 30 L 9 2 2u
7�: — - - - - - NP
. . 12 �t-o
The City Beautiful Commission held its regular meeting Thursday, November 01, 2012,
at 11:30 a.m. at Curran Hall. Chair Wiedower called the meeting to order.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
MEMBERS ABSENT:
ALSO PRESENT:
Steve Homeyer
Wally Loveless
Carrie Young
Chris Minor
Ingrid Green
Edward Peek
Freddie Ratliff
Bill Wiedower
Lynn Warren
Brittany Snyman
Jennie Cole
Christy Marvel, Plans Development Administrator, Department of
Planning & Development, City of Little Rock
Beth Blevins Carpenter, Deputy City Attorney, City Attorney's
Office, City of Little Rock
Haitham Alley, Vratsinas Construction Company (VCC)
APPROVAL OF THE JANUARY MINUTES:
Motion: Commissioner Warren made a motion to accept the minutes as corrected.
Second: Commissioner Snyman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
OPENING OF PUBLIC HEARING:
CBC Case 620-B 207 West 3rd Street, VCC Parking Lot
Commissioner Homeyer recused on this application.
Staff opened the hearing for the variance request located at 207 West 3 rd Street. The UU
zoned property along the south side of W. 3'd Street, between Center and Louisiana Street.
This site now a parking lot which serves the Hatcher Agency, which is located in the office
building within the southeast portion of this block, and Vratsinas Construction
Company(VCC), which is located in the office building across W. 3rd Street to the north.
The parking lot on the west side of the alley contains 40 paved parking spaces; with the lot
on the east side of the alley contains 48 spaces. The lots are enclosed with a six (6) foot
high iron fence, with masonry columns. Vehicle entry gates (rolling gates) for each lot are
located along the alley right-of-way.
On ,tune 27 h, 2011 the applicant went before the Board of Adjustment for a number of
variances. The Board approved a variance for the elimination of two (2) street trees and the
reduction of the street buffer area. On September 1 ", 2011 the applicant requested a
variance from the City Beautiful Commission for the reduction of the street perimeter
landscape strip, the elimination of building landscaping, and plant deduction, and the
elimination of two (2) interior islands. The applicant was granted all the requested
variances, with the exception of the interior islands being eliminated. The applicant also
Proposed and donated, four thousand four hundred ten dollars and thirty-two cents ($
4,410.32) to the City of Little Rock, Tree Fund. Upon construction of the approved
parking lot, additional utilities were found. The applicant then located all of the required
street trees within the perimeter planting strip. Upon site inspection for final certificate of
occupancy the site was put on notice to reapply since the plants were not put in per the
landscape plan.
On April 301h, 2012 the applicant went before the Board of Adjustment requesting to
plant the street trees in planters. City staff was not in support of the tree planters. The
Board of Adjustment recommended deferral of the application based upon staffs feedback.
On May 21 ", 2012 the Board granted another deferral on the application. On .tune 25,' the
Board approved another deferral on the application. On July 30`h, 2012 the applicant
addressed the Board of Adjustment noting that AT& T, Centerpoint Energy, and Enter
had utility lines in the area where the street trees are required. Mr. Haitham noted the
relocation of all those utilities was very, very expensive. The Board of Adjustment
instructed Mr. Haitham to submit alternative plans for the issue, to work with city staff, and
to have something submitted within two (2) weeks. The applicant was then deferred to the
August 27th, 20I2 meeting.
The applicant submitted a plan to staff on August 9", 2012, proposing to install
additional landscaping (trees) within another parking lot located at the northwest corner of
West 3 rdand Louisiana Streets. The new Iandscaping is proposed in lieu of planting the
street trees at 207 W. 3`d Street, The lot at the northwest corner of W. 3`d and Louisiana
Streets has the same ownership as the 207 W. 3rd nt was provisions of Section 36-342.1(5.) to not plan any
Street property, The applica
granted a variance from the development
street trees at 207 W. P Street. The applicant submitted an amended plan for planting the
trees in lieu of the required street trees. The applicant had planted eight (8) additional trees
within the interior/perimeter Iandscaped areas of the site. The ?plicant will also plant six
(6) more trees within the existing landscaped beds across W. 3' Street to the north
(northwest corner of WTd and Louisiana Streets). The applicant will also make a two -
thousand dollar ($2,000.00) contribution to the City's Tree Fund. The Board of
Adjustment approved the proposal with the two (2) following conditions: 1. The amended
application/plan must be approved by the City Beautiful Commission and 2. The trees at
the northwest corner of W. P. and Louisiana Streets must be installed within the thirty
(30) days of the final approval.
Therefore, the applicant is now requesting approval of the revised landscape plan. The
applicant ran into an unforeseen utility easement area creating a hardship. All of the trees
shown on the originally approved landscape plan are on the site; they are simply relocated
and not within the public right-of-way (street tree area). The applicant is proposing to plant
additional trees on the property across the street and make another donation to the City of
Little Rock, Tree Fund. Staff feels the applicant has improved a downtown site and has
tried to meet the intention of the landscape ordinance.
Staff is supportive of the requested variance and thus recommends approval of the
application.
Chair Wiedower inquired the applicant, Mr. Haitham Alley, if he had anything additional
to add. Mr. Haitham responded that he did not have anything to add. Chair Wiedower
noted that he was glad to see the applicant come up with another solution that included city
staff support and the upgrade of another site, downtown. Chair Wiedower noted, he felt it
was a good remedy for this issue. Commissioner Cole inquired about the utility lines not
being shown on the original legal survey given to city staff for review. The applicant noted
the surveyor missed the utilities and thus they were not initially shown on the legal survey.
It wasn't until they begin to excavate the area that the utilities were discovered..
Commissioner Loveless inquired about Pagis and the use of the data. It was noted Pagis
was not reviewed. Commissioner Warren inquired about the! plant materials.
Commissioner Warren noted she'd visited the site prior to arriving at the meeting today and
noticed the sidewalks being slender in width. Commissioner Minor noted it would've been
nice if the landscaping could've been planted on this site of fence.
Motion: Commissioner Warren made a motion to accept the recommendation by city staff
to approve this application.
Second: Commissioner Minor seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
New CBC member, Mr. Wally Loveless was introduced.
The re -appointment of Mr. Steve Homeyer was announced
Commissioner Warren passed the CBC Contact List out for updates.
Commissioner Minor noted contact information would also be needed for CBC business
cards
Commissioner Loveless indicated an interest in the City's Public Right -Of -Ways.
Commissioner Loveless said he worked as a Realtor in the City of Little Rock and the
cleanliness and curb appeal of our city public right-of-ways was important. Chair
Wiedower noted that the Adopt -A -Street Committee Chair was vacant at the moment and it
sounded like something Commissioner Loveless may have an interest in. Commissioner
Minor also noted interest and will work on the Adopt -A -Street Committee for now; until
either the retreat or until someone else wants to take on.
Commissioner Warren updated Commissioner Loveless about the Adopt -A -Street program.
It was noted the Rotary CIubs and Realtors maybe good groups to approach about the
adoption of our city streets for trash pick-up.
TREASURER'S REPORT: Commissioner Snyman noted no changes in either of the CSC
accounts. To date the balance in the Centennial Bank Account is $1297.05. Commissioner
Snyman will contact Mrs. Venita Harris in the Planning Department about the city fund balance
and report it via email to the Commission.
Discussion commenced on ordering new CBC logo shirts. It was noted those would need to be
purchased with the CBC account instead of the City Account.
COMMITTEE REPORTS: UPDATES:
OLD BUSINESS:
Community Projects
I-b3� (Minor, Marvel) -Commissioner Minor noted that his Committee partner is now off
the CBC; therefore, direction on the process or what to do next would be appreciated. It was
noted Assistant City Manager, Bryan Day, would be attending a CBC meeting soon so perhaps,
getting direction from Mr. Day would be an option. Commissioner Warren described briefly the
committee's goal(s) and noted this project can be added to the CBC Retreat Agenda perhaps.
Website Warren -Chair Wiedower noted the CBC website continues to look great.
Commissioner Warren mentioned Meg Matthews took photos of the 2012 CBC Landscape
Awards and had planned to send them to city staff, Christy Marvel. Staff noted no photographs
have been sent to date. Commissioner Warren noted city staff, Christy Marvel, had given her a
certified letter from Aristotle. Aristotle is the company that handles the CBC website. The letter
notes some changes; however, it's unclear whether or not additional charges wiII be incurred.
Commissioner Warren noted she would investigate further and get back to the CBC via email if
any new information is gathered.
Library Exhibit- Sn man -The schedule for the exhibit was discussed. It was noted
Commissioner Bell has a key that needed to be returned. It was noted the exhibit is on the
schedule for the month of December. Christy Marvel, city staff, noted the coordination of that
exhibit is to be done with the Planning & Development Department staff. The display case was
briefly discussed. It was noted Bryan Day, Assistant City Manager, would likely have
information on someone to contact at the State House Conference Center.
KLRB Wiedower - Wiedower -Chair Wiedower noted plans to begin attendance due to his
schedule changing; allowing him to be in Little Rock more.
Adopt-4-Street(Minor and Young). Commissioner Minor noted this upcoming weekend is the
scheduled pick up date. Commissioner Minor noted it would be optimal to come up with a better
system that could be implemented that would increase participation. A sign up sheet was
discussed that would list the annual dates for trash pick-up. Each CBC member could then pick
two (2) or three (3) times within the year to participate. Recycling was discussed briefly.
Commissioner Minor noted he would coordinate the pick up for now and would email everyone
about any changes; i.e. Inclement weather, not enough involvement, etc. Areas of heavy trash
were discussed; it was noted code enforcement can be called to turn in complaints.
Commnnications_ Cole - It was noted the Democrat/Gazette published the 2012 CBC
Landscape Awards. Published Saturday, October 27t", 2012, Editorial Page (7B).
Lan dsca a Awards Home er - Commissioner Homeyer noted the 2012 CSC Landscape
Awards went good. All three (3) awardees were shocked and happy to be winners. The Mayor
had each Board Member from the respective wards present the award. Commissioner Warren
described the Landscape Awards. Commissioner Loveless inquired about the K-Mart site on
Rodney Parham. Discussion commenced on ways to encourage existing businesses to install
more landscaping. Commissioner Snyman requested copies of the newspaper ads be included in
the minutes City staff noted the minutes include the publisher, date, pages, etc. currently.
Landmark Award iedawer -Chair Wiedower noted the Landmark was presented to the
daughter and widow of Mr. Rick Redden, AIA. It was noted that City Board member, Dean
Kumpuris and developer, Jimmy Moses both spoke on his behalf. Kate East, daughter of Mr.
Redden, accepted the award and was very grateful. It was noted the stone city staff had for
display/questions was used for this particular award; however, Custom Trophies is supposed to
have additional rocks that have already been paid for; however, mounting and the plaque will
cost additional.
CBC Business Cards Minor -Commissioner Minor presented the CBC with personal business
cards. An invoice was given to city staff to give to Mrs. Venita Harris. It was noted all the CBC
will also need business cards.
Chair Weidower asked if additional bags, pick up tools, vests, etc. are needed to order prior to
the end of the year. The balance from the City Account was questioned. Commissioner Snyman
noted she'd be unable to make contact. City staff, Christy Marvel, denoted the main phone
number for Planning & Development; 501 _371..4790 Commissioner Snyman noted she would
make contact and let everyone know the current amount in that account via email.
Motion: Commissioner Warren made a motion to allow Commissioner Homeyer the money, up
to ($300.00) three -hundred dollars, to purchase landscape award signs and frames for next years
landscape awards.
Second: Commissioner Young seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
All CBC members were encouraged to bring their estimates for things that need to be purchased
prior to the end of the year.
NEW BUSINESS:
EYe of the Beholder (Young)- Commissioner Young noted interest in expanding the Eye of the
Beholder Award. Firstly, expanding its eligibility dates to include year around. Secondly,
expanding what types of landscapes would be applicable. For example, the intersection of Daisy
Sates and Cumberland is one that she would like to nominate. Having seasonal photographs for
the website was also discussed. It was noted all enhancements can he recognized. One issue
discussed was having a competition between city wards, recognizing the best one or two sites
that are a "gem" in the particular ward. It was decided that could further be discussed at the
retreat coming up in January. Commissioner Warren noted that the dates for the Eye of the
Award could simply be removed that limit the eligibility currently.
Motion: Commissioner Young made a motion to change the timeline on the website or to make
it all year long.
Second: Commissioner Warren seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
2012 CBC Calendar of Meetin Dates:
Commissioner Warren noted the date needed to be changed for the January 3d, 2014 date to
January 2"d, 2014.
Motion: Commissioner Minor made a motion to accept the 2012 CBC Calendar as proposed by
city staff with the one date changed as noted.
Second: Commissioner Warren seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Commissioner Homeyer noted an article that he'd seen about Curran Hall (the building being
occupied at the moment) being haunted. The article had noted the original owner of the building
had passed away in the structure. The City of Little Rock was also noted as being number five
(5) in livability recently. In addition to being noted in the top ten (10) places to live
economically.
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion: Commissioner Homeyer made a "lotion to adjourn.
Second: Commissioner Young seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:59 p.m.