HomeMy WebLinkAboutpc_09 19 1995subLITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBDIVISION HEARING
SUMMARY AND MINUTE RECORD
SEPTEMBER 19, 1995
9:00 A.M.
I. Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum
A Quorum was present being eight in number.
II. Approval of the Minutes of the August 8, 1995
meeting were approved as mailed.
III. Members Present:
Members Absent:
Brad Walker, Chairman
Ramsay Ball
Bill Putnam
Doyle Daniel
Pam Adcock
Joe Selz
Mizan Rahman
Diane Chachere
Suzanne McCarthy
Ron Woods
One Open Position
City Attorney: Stephen Giles
LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBDIVISION AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 19, 1995
I. DEFERRED ITEMS:
A. Kingwood Place Addition, Lots M-1 and M-2 --
Preliminary Plat (S -1059-A)
B. Jimerson Creek Pedestrian Bridge and Bikeway --
Conditional Use Permit (Z-6000)
C. Community Bakery -- Amended Short -Form PCD (Z -4563-A)
II. PRELIMINARY PLATS:
1. Johnson Ranch Village -- Preliminary Plat (S-1074)
2. Leawood Place -- Preliminary Plat (S-1077)
III. PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS:
3. Bowman Road -- Amended Short -Form PCD (Z -5756-B)
4. Ramser -- Short -Form PD -O (Z-6020)
5. One Source Home Center -- Amended Long -Form PCD
(Z -4933-D)
6. Ten -Mile House -- Long -Form PRD (Z-5908)
7. Embassy Suites -- Amended Long -Form PD -C (Z -5887-A)
IV. CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS:
8. Portoni -- Conditional Use Permit (Z -6031-A)
9. Professional Educators School -- Conditional Use Permit
(Z-6034)
10. Calvary Apostolic U. P. C. -- Conditional Use Permit
(Z -4325-A)
11. Givens -- Conditional Use Permit (Z-6026)
12. Seventh Day Adventist -- Conditional Use Permit
(Z-6032)
Agenda, Page 2
13. Hundley -- Conditional Use Permit (Z-6033)
14. Promised Land -- Conditional Use Permit (Z-6036)
15. Hank's Furniture Warehouse -- Conditional Use Permit
(Z-6037)
V. SITE PLAN REVIEWS:
16. Baptist Health Laundry Facility -- Zoning Site Plan
Review (Z -2079-G)
16a. Cypress Properties Office Building -- Zoning Site Plan
Review (Z -5472-D)
VI. REZONING•
17. (Z-6031) 6701 Shaner Circle, from R-2 to AF
VII. OTHER MATTERS:
18. Parkway Office Subdivision, Lot 2 -- Sidewalk waiver
(S -934-A)
19. Valley Drive -- Street Name Change (G-25-170)
20. Easement Abandonment -- Tract "A", Pleasant Valley 2nd.
Addition (G-23-240)
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: A FILE NO.: S -1059-A
NAME: KINGWOOD PLACE ADDITION, LOTS M-1 & M-2 -- PRELIMINARY
PLAT
LOCATION: Approximately 200 feet south of Pine Valley Road and
600 feet northwest of Sunset Circle.
DEVELOPER•
ENGINEER•
H. Bradley Walker Joe White
WALKER REAL ESTATE WHITE-DATERS & ASSOCIATES, INC.
2224 Cottondale Ln., Suite 201 401 S. Victory St.
Little Rock, AR 72202 Little Rock, AR 72201
666-4242 374-1666
AREA: 2.59 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 2 FT. NEW STREET: 500±
ZONING: R-2 PROPOSED USES: Single -Family Residential
PLANNING DISTRICT: 3
CENSUS TRACT: 22.01
VARIANCES REQUESTED: Approval of a private street in an access
easement for access from a public street to the lots.
STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL:
The applicant proposes a two -lot subdivision of an existing lot,
and proposes to provide access to the two lots by way of a
private street in an access easement across another owner's tract
which lies between the applicant's tract and a public street.
Since the public street, Pine Valley Rd., is a dedicated right-
of-way and is a partially improved roadway for a portion of its
length from Sunset Circle, the applicant proposes to extend a
driving surface, to be in keeping with the width and type of the
existing roadway, from the present end of the pavement to the
proposed private street access point. A variance is requested to
be approved by the Planning Commission for the private street and
access easement. No other variances or waivers are requested.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Review and approval by the Planning Commission is requested
for a preliminary plat for a two -lot subdivision. Approval
by the Planning Commission is requested for a private street
and access easement to provide the needed access to the two
lots.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1059-A
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is presently heavily wooded and is on an extremely
steep hillside. There is approximately 100 feet of
elevation change across the two lots, dropping from the
southeast corner of the east lot to the northwest corner of
the west lot. There is approximately a 20 foot elevation
differential form the north edge of the lots to Pine Valley
Rd. where the proposed private street is to intersect;
however, there is a 30-50 foot deep draw which lies between
the lots and Pine Valley Rd.
The existing zoning of the site is R-2, with R-2 zoning
being the exclusive zoning district of all surrounding land.
C. ENGINEERING/UTILITY COMMENTS:
The Public Works staff provided the following comments:
1) There is required information missing from the
preliminary plat. A complete listing of the
deficiencies is available from the Public Works staff.
2) The Pine Valley right-of-way has significant horizontal
and vertical alignment changes. The road has a
dedicated right-of-way; however, there only exists a
10' asphalt lane that dead -ends at the residence
opposite the planned private drive. Pine Valley will
require improvements to minimum City standards to the
point of access to this private drive. There needs to
be a proper turn -around constructed at the end of Pine
Valley Rd.
3) The preliminary plat indicates that an access easement
will provide access to lots which do not abut a public
street; therefore, the street should be designed as a
private residential street with construction conforming
to City standards. Waivers of the grades, radii, turn-
around, width of street, and provision for open
drainage should be sought (unless the street will
conform to the standards of the Little Rock Code of
Ordinances). Private streets require Public Work's
approval of the construction and plans.
4) Open ditches are generally not permitted by the
Stormwater Management and Drainage Manual. If ditches
are planned, they must be shown on the preliminary plat
and approved by the City Engineer. Any planned
drainage ditches must be shown on the preliminary plat.
Show water courses entering the subdivision and the
planned exit points for drainage. Easements off-site
for this drainage may be required.
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: S -1059 -
Water Works comments that a water main extension will be
required.
Wastewater Utility comments that a sewer main extension,
with easements, will be required. Pump stations will not be
acceptable.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. will require easements. Their
drawing proposes a 15' easement at the perimeter of the
subdivision, and a 151 easement straddling the Lot M -1-M-2
line.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. commented that easements
will be required. They show a 10' easement along the east,
south, and north perimeter of the subdivision.
The Fire Department notes that the grade of the roadways to
the lots are far too steep for fire apparatus to negotiate
in inclement weather; that this could keep the fire
department from getting to the location. A maximum grade of
14% needs to be maintained for all roadways.
D. ISSUES/LEGAL/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Sec. 31-231 states: "Every lot shall abut upon a public
street, except where private streets are explicitly approved
by the Planning Commission". Sec. 31-207 states: "The
design standards shall conform to public street standards as
specified in this chapter." The applicant is seeking
Planning Commission approval of a private street in an
access easement to provide the required access to the lots.
Sec. 31-87 requires that, in addition to the information
furnished, the following be identified: the type of
subdivision being proposed; the name and address of the
owner of record and the source of title giving deed record
book and page number or instrument number; any existing and
the proposed covenants and restrictions; and, the source of
water supply and the means of wastewater disposal.
Sec. 31-89 requires that on the plat, in addition to the
information shown, the following be provided: the design of
the street improvements; the front yard setback; natural
features (i.e., drainage channels, bodies of water, wooded
areas, and watercourses) and cultural features (i.e.,
bridges, culverts, utility lines, pipelines, power lines,
and park areas); a storm drainage analysis and preliminary
storm drainage plan; the names of recorded subdivision
abutting the proposed site, with plat book and page number
or instrument number; the names of all owners of landlocked
parcels which are contiguous to the subdivision; an accurate
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1059-A
physical description of all
classifications of the plat
Proposed PAGIS monuments are
E. ANALYSIS•
monuments; and the zoning
area and of all abutting lands.
to be identified.
If a subdivision of land meets the minimum requirements of
the Subdivision Ordinance, the approval of that subdivision
of land cannot be denied. The R-2 zoning district requires
a minimum lot size of 7,000 square feet, with a minimum lot
width of 60 feet and a minimum lot depth of 100 feet. The
Subdivision Ordinance requires that either a lot have
frontage on a public street or a private street. It
requires approval by the Planning Commission for a private
street, and sets certain tests for approval of a private
street. (See. Sec. 31-207) The Subdivision Ordinance
requires that a private street meet the requirements of the
Ordinance as to design standards.
The proposed lots meet the minimum requirements of the
zoning and Subdivision Ordinances for size. The request for
access to the lots by way of a private street in an access
easement meet the requirements for approval. The question,
though, is can a roadway be constructed which meets City
standards within the access easement which has been
indicated on the plan? The City Engineer states that it
cannot. The Fire Department reports that the grades which
would be necessary for the private street to follow the
contours shown would be too steep. The requirement of Sec.
31-207, wherein the requirement that private streets meet
public street standards for design and construction, cannot,
according to the information shown and furnished, be met.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends denial of preliminary plat due to access to
the site not being able to be provided which will meet Code.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:
(JUNE 8, 1995)
No one was present to present the application. Staff outlined
the request, and the Planning and Public works staff discussed
with the Committee members the staff concerns noted in the
discussion outline. The Committee forwarded the item to the full
Commission for the public hearing.
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: S -1059-A
PLANNING COMMISSIONACTION: (JUNE 27, 1995)
The Chairman identified this item for public hearing and recognized
Deputy City Attorney, Stephen Giles, for purposes of offering
commentary prior to the hearing.
Mr. Giles recognized this as an opportunity to once again deal
with planned areas within the city limits. He pointed out that
he would make a preliminary statement and bring out a couple of
issues he felt needed to be discussed. Giles pointed out that
several commissioners had indicated apparent confusion about the
role of the Planning Commission in this matter. He pointed out
that this is not a zoning issue or rezoning application and it is
a subdivision plat. He pointed out that the Zoning Ordinance
establishes land use districts and allows residential uses.
These uses are located on property is the subject of the
Subdivision Regulations. The issue here according to Mr. Giles
is whether or not this plat as submitted meets the requirements
for the Subdivision Ordinance. He also pointed for the record
that he is an adjacent property owner owning a small portion of
Tract M. His property fronting upon Kingwood Drive.
Giles stated that he made this statement in order to place it in
the record. He felt he could participate in this hearing because
he was not a voting member of the Planning Commission. Giles
then moved to his commentary to issues involving subdivision
plats. He specifically covered the issue of the Robert
Richardson replat and the Robinwood-Foxcroft neighborhood. The
ramifications of the decision in that case and how they apply in
this matter. Giles then pointed out that the Planning
Commission's only role in this application is a determination as
to whether the plat conforms to the Subdivision Ordinance. He
pointed out that the Planning Commission's secondary role in this
application is the determination of the appropriateness of the
extension of a private road to serve the lots.
Giles concluded his remarks by briefly reading various excerpts
from the Subdivision Regulations pertaining to private drives,
the replatting of properties and this plat in general.
Commissioner Willis then acting as Chairman asked that Mr. White,
representing the Engineering firm of White-Daters, proceed with
making a presentation. He discussed the design elements of the
modified roadway to provide the private street from Pine Valley
Road to the two lots that will be served. Mr. White pointed out
that the design presented for this private street meets all of
Public Works' design criteria. He pointed out that there were no
waiver requests attendant to this application.
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont_.) FILE NO.: 5-1059-A
Mr. white identified Mr. Gene Ludwig who was attending the
meeting with him who could offer information if required. Mr.
Ludwig then came forward to address the Commission and offered
comments to the effect that people should not be concerned about
these two lots being a forerunner to a larger development of this
area. That is not the intent here and various conditions written
into this proposal restricts any further development of this
property. The covenants that are being offered by Mr. Brad
Walker and two adjacent property owners will be part of the
record if approval of this plat is obtained.
After the conclusion of Mr. Ludwig's remarks, the Chairman then
directed attention to numerous cards that had been submitted by
persons attending and wishing to speak against this application.
There were 13 of these cards. He requested that if there was a
spokesperson for the neighborhood and the objection, let that
person come forward but he would not limit anyone's ability to
speak on the matter.
Jim Lawson, the Planning Director, at this point asked the
Chairman for permission to insert staff commentary on this
subject in as much as the staff has not offered his position or
recommendation. Lawson pointed out that the Staff does recommend
approval if the plat as being in conformance with the Ordinance.
He stated, Public Works should be heard on this matter.
A brief discussion was inserted at this point concerning the
covenants opposed by Mr. Walker and offered by Mr. Ludwig.
Stephen Giles, Deputy City Attorney, addressed these as being
important elements of the application filing, especially for the
comfort level of the neighborhood and purchasers of the lots.
The Chairman then recognized David Scherer, of Public Works, for
purposes of that City department's comments. Scherer offered a
full review of the application and its construction elements as
proposed involving Pine Valley Road and the private street. He
stated the plan that had been submitted appears to meet all
residential street standards for a private street as required by
Ordinance. Scherer described Pine Valley Road and this area
where it leaves Sunset Lane and traverses the hillside toward
this development as being a very narrow 10± foot wide driveway.
It in no way meets minimum street standards for residential
street.
He then offered additional commentary on communication between
his office and Mr. Walker and Mr. White concerning the design
requirements Public Works would insist upon for Pine Valley Road.
Scherer stated that Pine Valley needs to be improved beyond its
existing 10 foot width.
A lengthy discussion then followed involving the Chairman and
Mr. Scherer discussing the design requirements of the private
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1059-A
street and Pine Valley. Scherer stated that his assumption was
that Pine Valley Road's improvements would include curb and
gutter.
Commissioner Doyle Daniel then inserted a question that he
addressed to Mr. White. His question had to do with whether or
not Pine Valley Road would be properly expanded in width to
accommodate emergency vehicles. Mr. White's response was yes.
The Chairman then recognized Mr. Phillip Anderson who came
forward as a spokesperson for the neighborhood. He identified
himself as being an attorney with the firm of Williamson. and
Anderson. He stated for the record that he represented Chuck and
Margaret Ensminger, Walter Hussman and his wife and Ben Hussman.
Mr. Anderson presented a graphic outlining the location of
various lots of the persons that he represented and their
relationships to the application. He then moved his comments to
discussion of the process involved in this application.
Mr. Anderson's' first point offered was that he took issue with
Public Works' statement that there was not a waiver. He then
identified that Mr. Gene Levy would address the Commission with
some specific issues and that he would then be followed by
Mr. Walter Hussman. He stated that he wanted to assure the
record reflected there was a general plan for this neighborhood.
He then entered into some commentary about the Staff. He thought
that perhaps in this instance the Staff of the Planning
Commission was not as diligent as with most developers when
dealing with this application of its chairman. He included a
comment that perhaps there was procedural items and issues that
were not covered in a manner that other owners and developers
would perhaps be required to follow.
Mr. Anderson then offered additional statements in support of his
accusation that staff had not required the proper review and
submittal of information. He itemized the various items from the
Subdivision Ordinance including names, various forms and other
submittal requirements. He specifically pointed out that a
letter required by Ordinance was supposed to have been faxed to
him, but was in fact, not ever delivered. He concluded his
remarks by again offering a statement that the Commission should
be aware by his presentation that all of the requirements of
Ordinance have not been met; thereby, bringing into question the
issue of whether or not the plat is complete and in conformance
with the Ordinance. Mr. Anderson pointed out that this is the
one opportunity for the neighborhood to have its input and review
the information in the plat.
He then raised a question while leaving the lectern that the
issue of the cul-de-sac length should be addressed. He
specifically directed that to Mr. White and then asked that
Mr. Levy come forward and address this matter. Mr. Levy came
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: S -1059-A
forward and offered his thought on the cul-de-sac length issue as
being that he felt the street was being extended greater than the
1,000 feet allowed by Ordinance.
A lengthy discussion then followed involving Commissioner Willis,
acting Chairman, and the attorney for the neighborhood. The
discussion primarily centered upon the Staff's involvement and
the filing of this application and whether their actions were
appropriate.
Commissioner Putnam then offered a comment that the Commission
and the persons speaking to the matter from the audience were
getting away from the issue at hand, and we should return to the
application.
Jim Lawson, the Planning Director, then added a comment at this
point that many of the issues raised for discussion by the
objectors' attorney are matters of record in the Staff's office.
We do not have to be told what these items are as far as the
persons' address, names and such.
Mr. Gene Levy then came forward to offer his comments and
objection to this application, and in support of those offered by
Mr. Anderson. He briefly described Pine Valley Road, its current
physical state. Mr. Levy then presented a series of photographic
representations of the neighborhood. He presented a map and then
indicated the ravine that is principally involved in the creation
of the private roadway. His presentation illustrated the
neighborhood environment.
Mr. Levy then moved his comments to describe the individual
properties along Pine Valley Road and the adjacent area to the
subject plat. Identifying persons building these homes and the
architects involved, Mr. Lawson injected a comment into the
presentation offering to the Commission that the presentation as
being made was entering into land use kinds of concerns and
getting away from the plat at hand.
The Chairman again admonished the presenters for the objectors to
maintain the issue at hand and not stray to other issues and
being redundant. Mr. Levy then returned to his presentation and
offered some photographic and other graphic materials indicating
in the topographic, the physical layout of the area and the
structural involvement of the neighborhood. Mr. Levy added
additional commentary about the length of the street combining
Pine Valley as well as the private road added further comments
about the location of the turnaround device. He also stated that
a variance had not been requested for the lengthy roadway and one
should be required.
Mr. Levy then offered a lengthy discussion on the construction
involved in placing the private roadway across the ravine. He
:
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO • _S -1059-A
offered a estimate from computations that he had available to him
that it would take approximately 16,000 cubic yards of dirt to
accomplish the private road construction as identified by
Mr. White's drawing. Mr. Levy offered a statement that it would
take 1,600 dump truck loads in order to move that much dirt into
the neighborhood. He also offered that it would do severe
violence to the neighborhood streets.
After additional lengthy comments on design of the private road
and dangers to the neighborhood, Mr. Levy stated that his
estimate was that it would cost $250,000 and off-site
improvements in order to access these two lots. Mr. Levy then
offered extensive commentary by quoting sections of the Ordinance
dealing with the design of private streets. In concluding his
remarks, Mr. Levy additionally added to the commentary that he
had previously offered about the design and the floor work that
would have to be accomplished and the excavation and change of
grade to accommodate the roadway and the ravine.
Commissioner Willis then stated that he had a question for Staff
as to whether or not Pine Valley Road currently is wide enough to
service emergency vehicles. David Scherer, of Public Works,
responded by saying that in its current condition it is not but
it has been offered by Mr. Walker to widen the street to a
sufficient width to accommodate vehicles. During the course of a
lengthy discussion between several commissioners and Mr. Scherer,
the Deputy City Attorney posed a question as to whether or not
the 27 foot street could be constructed within the 50 foot right-
of-way existing on Pine Valley without moving into the creek.
Scherer indicated that he could not determine that with the
information he had at hand.
A brief discussion was held between Commissioner Rahman and
Scherer dealing with whether or not permits of various types
would be needed for soil control and erosion and flood control.
Scherer indicated that there were permits for most of these, but
there would not be permit requirements for environmental
concerns. He indicated that if there were permits required from
state level those would be the kind of things that he would work
with the applicant on.
Commissioner Putnam then stated that he would like to ask
Mr. Levy a question. The question was whether improvement
requirements to Pine Valley Road included in the $250,000
estimate projected by Mr. Levy. Mr. Levy responded by saying
that there were improvement requirements approximately 10 feet of
widening into Pine Valley included into that figure.
The Chairman then recognized Mr. Walter Hussman who came forward
to offer comments and objections. Mr. Hussman offered a brief
history of the neighborhood from his perspective having moved
into that neighborhood several years ago. He offered that there
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1059-A
had been no changes since 1950's style development area until
such time as the Planning Commission moved into the area. He
offered a concern that weighs very much on the minds of the
people of the neighborhood, that being the potential for future
sales of additional lots. Mr. Hussman then described the
dimensional relationships of his lots and his adjacent neighbors
to the Pine Valley Road. He stated that this development would
fundamentally change the neighborhood. He stated that he felt
like the widening or the construction of Pine Valley Road to the
standards proposed would impact the adjacent yard area or the
creek side of the right-of-way. A lot of trees would be moved or
cut from this site during this project.
Mr. Hussman stated his observation was that the plan offered by
Mr. Walker keeps changing. He offered some thoughts on the
projected numbers of dump trucks and fill material to be brought
to the site. He then offered comments on the economics of
selling these two lots with the enormous cost of tax the physical
improvements that will have to be installed. Mr. Hussman then
offered his perspective on how many lots could be obtained from
this valley area if additional development is to occur that being
some 45 in number. Developing everything down to the river that
is not now developed. He then offered commentary on the geology
of the area bluffs overlooking the Arkansas River and the
attractiveness of maintaining the current development status
along the river overview.
Mr. Hussman then offered comments related to an agreement
presumably entered into with Mrs. Law, a current property owner.
Such agreement had not been presented to him and he had not had
the opportunity to observe its content.
Mr. Hussman continued his commentary by stating that he had
Mr. Gene Levy, a design professional, as well as the Mehlburger
Firm's staff present. The professionals have reviewed these
proposals and prepared their commentary. He stated that these
gentlemen were reluctant because they work with this Commission
and would feel uncomfortable dealing with this matter in the
fashion required. Mr. Hussman concluded his remarks by
requesting that the Commission not do this to him, to his
neighborhood or to his city.
Mr. Anderson then returned to the lectern and told the Chairman
that the mayor of Cammack Village was present and would like to
offer comment on this matter. Acting Chairman Willis then
instructed the audience that he is still had numerous cards
before him of persons wishing to speak on the matter. He
reminded these persons that they should address the issue
specifically and not repeat information that had previously been
offered. At this point, Mr. Anderson indicated that the persons
who have addressed the Commission had addressed the concerns that
they have desired to, although he could not speak for everyone.
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1059-A
After a brief discussion between Mr. Anderson and Acting Chairman
Willis, it was determined that there were approximately three
additional persons wishing to address this matter. The first of
these to approach the lectern offering his comments was Mr.
Robert Eubanks. He identified himself as the mayor of Cammack
Village and a practicing attorney. He offered extensive
commentary on the effect of the projected 1,600 dump trucks on
the streets between Cammack Village and the lots, and the
destructive effect of their passage. He then offered some
commentary on his perception of the history of this case and his
surprise of learning that this proposal was before the
Commission. He continued his commentary by offering that the
Cammack Village area is a community of narrow streets without
sidewalks and certainly some congestion in certain areas. Mayor
Eubanks of Cammack Village indicated that children in the area
play in the creek and he fears this will be affected by this
project.
The next person to approach the lectern to offer his commentary
was Mr. Jim Conner. Mr. Conner, a resident of the Sunset Drive
area, identified himself as a professional planner, real estate
investor and Little Rock businessman. He then continued by
offering his commentary on this proposal. His assessment covered
the potential impact both of this project and the potential for
additional development in the area. He expressed some concern
that Mr. Walker would submit an application of this nature with
this neighborhood opposed. He said that nobody knows what the
legal relationships are involved in this proposal, he sees a
clear conflict of interest. Mr. Conner requested that Mr. Walker
withdraw the application, and if such does not occur he stated
that he would like to see the Planning Commission deny this
matter. He stated that he would like to see the Ensminger°s
replat their properties into a single one house lot. Mr. Conner
concluded his remarks.
The Chairman then recognized the next speaker being Ruth Bell, of
the League of Women Voters. Mrs. Bell offered a statement that
she had often observed applications hartily contested during
hearing before the Commission cause additional development in an
area.
A follow-up question to that statement was how would the
Commission react to such future applications if this item is
approved. Acting Chairman Willis pointed out that the only
answer he could offer is that each application would be handled
on its on merits. That concluded the speakers from the audience.
The Chairman then recognized Commissioner Putnam for a comment.
Commissioner Putnam offered his historical relationship to the
Graham Hall property, which is now occupied by the Ensminger
family and that he purchased the land for that structure. He
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: S -1059-A
offered various comments on his relationship to developments in
the immediate area overlooking the river. He concluded his
remarks by stating that he would like to see the area left alone
and let this development in this neighborhood remain much as it
is.
Acting Chairman Willis then recognized Commissioner Daniel for
his thoughts. There was an interruption by a person in the
audience identifying herself as having turned in a card and
desiring to speak on the matter. The Chairman again reminded the
audience that he had asked for the show of hands for speakers but
would allow additional speakers if so desired and announce their
intention at this point. This person identified herself as being
an owner in the area and she stated to the Chairman that she
hated to see the item proceed to a conclusion without having all
of the information from both sides of the matter.
By request from the Chairman, this speaker identified herself as
being Yvonne Law. Commissioner Daniel responded to a question by
the Chairman by stating that he would hold his question to a
later point in the hearing. Ms. Law then approached the lectern
and proceeded to offer her comments on the subject. She offered
general commentary on the current state of access and the matter
in which the private street would be gated and controled for
access to the two lots. These access points would not be
observed from Sunset Drive. Ms. Law stated that this road at one
point did go down to the river. Her family had a 40 year history
in this property adjacent to Pine Valley Road and had a part in
its termination at its current end.
Ms. Law stated that current termination of Pine Valley Road was
not an accident. Ms. Law produced a graphic illustrating the
area and she also offered a brief history of the agreement that
was being offered for attachment to the land. She offered
general information as to who owned what property at various
areas around Sunset Drive and Pine Valley Road. Ms. Law then
introduced to the Commission a copy of a plat having preliminary
plat approval status from the Planning Commission authorizing
Mr. Ensminger to subdivide into 7 lots. She pointed out
particularly that the plat proposes the reopening of the closed
abandoned portion of Pine Valley Road. Her perception of this
plat was, that, it indicated that Ensminger at least at that
point had no concern for the development of adjacent properties
surrounding their residence.
She then moved her comments to the agreement discussed with
Mr. Walker to control access and development of the two lots
that are projected out of this Tract M. She indicated that any
attempt to use the easement for any other purpose or access to
these two lots would cause the easement to revert to her family.
She concluded her remarks by stating that the Ensmingers who
owned property on one side of Pine valley Road have a right to
12
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: S -1059-A
use that road and take access. But apparently, the Ensmingers
feel that persons owing property on the other side of Pine Valley
Road do not have the right to develop their property.
Chairman Willis then moved the discussion back to the Commission.
Commissioner Daniel then made the statement that he had asked
permission to offer previously. This had to do with a visit to
the site and his perceptions of the existing roadway terrain and
adjacent properties. He expanded his comment to include
emergency vehicles and problems with access and turning radius
onto this narrow roadway.
Chairman Willis then posed a question to Joe White. He asked
Mr. White to address the issue of the number of trucks coming to
the site and possible time frame or duration of their accessing
this property, and as to what routes that they might possibly
utilize. Mr. White responded that any material coming to the
site would have to come down Pine Valley Road. Mr. White
indicated that they had looked at the design of these slopes and
they would possibly use such devices as gabions. The utilization
of these devices would significantly reduce the number of trucks.
Chairman Willis then asked Mr. White to respond to the question
of dust. Mr. White pointed out that these haulers would have to
be permitted and the roadway would have to be maintained and wet
down to reduce dirt and the City would control those types of
things. The Chairman then queried the Commission members as to
further comments. At this point, Commissioner Mizan asked
Mr. White if he was not going to use the design that was offered
by the opposition. Mr. White stated that it was similar and the
grades would be similar; however, the construction types would
not necessarily be the same. The horizontal configuration would
be much the same but their slopes would be different. He stated
they would probably use a fill and gabions that would reduce the
slope.
Commissioner Adcock then asked Mr. White if he still would have
to cut down a significant number of trees. Mr. White pointed out
that the design that he hoped to utilize would not remove as many
trees as was offered in the illustration.
The Chairman then recognized Mr. Walker's attorney who returned
to the lectern. He offered a lengthy comment concluding that the
law in this matter is clear. If you meet minimum standards, it
must be approved. He went on to offer a reading from the
Richardson case that had previously been discussed by various
persons in this hearing. He stated that since Mr. Walker was
willing to accept the higher standards to meet the Ordinance and
avoid a waiver, the law requires the Commission to approve this
application.
13
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO • 5-1059-A
He stated that many of the issues he identified as "picky little
issues" had been addressed by the court in the Richardson case.
He pointed to the fact that it must all be resolved before the
final plat is concluded. He stated that nothing will take place
here unless a final plat is approved. Before the final plat is
approved, Mr. Walker will have to fully comply with the
requirements. He stated that many of the arguments presented had
been a "smoke screen" and that Mrs. Law has capably covered the
issue of access and future development of this area. Anyone
desiring to develop further in this area would have to come
before the Planning Commission. He stated that although there
had been some objection to the provision of a private street, he
felt that the construction of a private street at this point
would enure to the benefit of everyone in the area by excluding
people who had no business in the area.
He went on to say, that, although it had been suggested by one of
the speakers that no changes had occurred in this neighborhood
for 50 years, Mrs. Law had pointed out, the Ensmingers had filed
a plat to had six additional lots to their property. He closed
his remarks by requesting that Mr. Walker not be discriminated
against simply because he is on the Commission and he has done
everything to eliminate discretion.
Chairman Willis then closed the discussion on this item. After a
brief commentary, Willis suggested to the applicant that the
applicant should perhaps pursue the idea of curb and gutter
versus a lower street standards.
The Chairman placed the item before the Commission for a vote
instructing them that they were voting on the plat identified
Item 111A" on the agenda consisting of Lots M1 and M2. The vote
on the application produced a count of 5 ayes, 4 nays and
2 absent.
The Chairman then questioned the Deputy City Attorney as to the
status of the application. It was agreed that the application
was automatically deferred per bylaw requirement. In this
instance, the application did not receive 6 votes affirmative or
negative. Commissioner Chachere posed a question at this point
of whether or not this was the second deferral of this item with
this circumstance and what happens at this point. Does it go to
the Board? Mr. Giles, of the City Attorney's Staff, advised the
Commission that this was a first deferral because the previous
application had been withdrawn because it was a different
property. This is a resubmittal on a separate site. The
Chairman then asked the staff to produce a date for deferral of
this item. Bobby Sims, of the Planning Staff, identified
August 8, 1995 at 9:00 A.M. being the rehearing date.
OF!
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO • A (Cont.) FILE NO.: S -1059 -
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (AUGUST 8, 1995)
The Planning Commission was in receipt of a letter from Mr. Brad
Walker, the applicant, stating that the applicant and abutting
neighbors were currently discussing resolution of this
subdivision matter. The letter requested that the application be
deferred to September 19, 1995.
The Commission determined that appropriate to include this item
in the Consent Agenda for deferral. A motion to that effect was
made. The motion passed by a vote of 6 ayes, 0 nays, 4 absent
and 1 abstention (Brad Walker).
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Staff reported that the applicant had submitted a letter, dated
August 24, 1995, reporting that he no longer retained an interest
in the subject property, nor authorization to proceed with the
application, and asking that the item be withdrawn from the
agenda. The request to withdraw the application was included on
the Consent Agenda for withdrawal, and the withdrawal was
approved with the vote of 7 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent, 1 abstention
(Walker), and 1 open position.
15
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: B FILE NO.: Z-6000
NAME: Jimerson Creek Pedestrian Bridge
and Bikeway - Conditional Use
Permit
LOCATION: Along the south bank of the
Arkansas River from Murray Park to
River Mountain Road
OWNER/APPLICANT: City of Little Rock
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is
requested to allow for the phased
development of a city park along
the south bank of the Arkansas
River from Murray Park to River
Mountain Road.
ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS:
1. Site Location:
The proposed park is to be located along the south bank of
the Arkansas River, beginning at the western end of Murray
Park and extending westward to the Corps of Engineers' boat
launch ramp at the foot of River Mountain Road.
2. Compatibility with Neighborhood:
The proposed park is to be located along the south bank of
the river, in an area between the railroad tracks and the
water's edge. Entrance to the park will be through either
of two existing parks, River Mountain Park or Murray Park.
The proposed park is located along the bottom of a heavily
wooded bluff which runs parallel to the river. The are
several residential properties on the upper side of the
bluff, but they are well separated from the proposed park.
The park will be compatible with the neighborhood and should
have no impact on any adjacent properties.
3. On -Site Drives and Parking:
There is existing parking located at both the east and west
ends of the proposed park, at River Mountain Park and Murray
Park. Additional parking will be installed in the west end
of the park, along that portion of the road which is
accessible to vehicular traffic.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6000
4. Screening and Buffers:
No additional screening or buffers are required.
5. City Engineer's Comments:
Base flood elevation = 261.0 NGFD. This project requires
SFNA development permit, conditioned upon approval of the
Corps of Engineer's. A certification of no increase in BFE
must be submitted. Development east of Jimerson Creek will
encroach in regulatory floodway.
6. Utilitv Comments:
Little Rock Wastewater reports an existing force main is
located in an exclusive easement in the area of the proposed
bridge. The contractor will be responsible for protection
of the force main during construction and any damage the
construction of the bridge may cause to the force main.
7. Staff Analysis:
The City of Little Rock Parks and Recreation Department
requests a conditional use permit to allow for the phased
development of a city park along the south bank of the
Arkansas River from Murray Park on the east to River
Mountain Road on the west.
The first phase of the project involves the eastern 2/3 of
the proposed park. In this initial phase a cul-de-sac will
be constructed on the existing road which is located between
the railroad tracks and the river. This cul-de-sac will
prevent traffic which enters the park from River Mountain
from driving through the length of the Park. The remaining
portion of the road, extending east of the cul-de-sac, will
be converted into a bikeway and pedestrian path. A
bike/pedestrian bridge will be constructed across Jimerson
Creek and the bikeway will continue eastward to Murray Park.
Throughout this portion of the park several reststops,
consisting of benches/shelters, trash receptacles, bike
racks and interpretive signs, will be constructed. A
fishing pier and a pavilion will be constructed near the
cul-de-sac.
The second phase of the project involves the western 1/3 of
the proposed park. This portion of the park will be vehicle
accessible, using the existing road which enters the park
from River Mountain Road. New parking lots, a fishing pier,
picnic sites and a pavilion will be constructed in this
portion of the park.
F
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO • B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6000
This park will create an additional two miles of recreation
opportunities for Little Rock citizens and staff is
supportive of the request.
8. Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of this application subject to
compliance with the City Engineer and Wastewater Utility
Company Comments.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:
(JUNE 8, 1995)
David Bryant was present representing the Parks and Recreation
Department. Staff presented the item and noted the City Engineer
and Wastewater Utility Comments outlined above.
Mr. Bryant responded that the City was working closely with the
Corps of Engineers on the project and that proper care would be
taken to avoid damage to the force main.
The Committee determined that there were no outstanding issues
and forwarded the item to the full Commission.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:
(JUNE 27, 1995)
David Bryant was present representing the application. There
were no objectors present. Staff informed the Commission that it
was necessary to defer the item to allow time to resolve some
outstanding issues.
The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved for
deferral. The vote was 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (AUGUST 8, 1995)
The Planning Commission was in receipt of a request from the
Parks Department requesting that this application be deferred for
further discussion with an abutting property owner.
The Commission determined it appropriate to place this item on
the Consent Agenda for deferral. A motion to that effect was
made. The motion passed by a vote of 7 ayes, 0 nays, and
4 absent.
3
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6000
NOTE:
The Staff in meetings with Parks Department, City Manager and
City Attorney's Office have determined that we will recommend
that the Commission should take action to approve this
conditional use permit application, subject to the Staff and City
Attorney later resolving access, ownership and street status.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
The Planning Commission received a report from Staff indicating
that this item did not require further deferral in order to
resolve the issues attendant to the outparcel bysecting the
continuity of this park. Staff reported that it was the opinion
of the City Attorney that the issue could be resolved after
action by the Planning Commission if the motion of the Commission
include a condition for that follow-up.
After a brief discussion, the Chairman placed the item on the
floor for a vote as filed subject to later resolution by the
Staff and City Attorney. A vote on this motion produced 8 ayes,
0 nays, 2 absent and 1 open position.
4
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: C FILE NO.: Z -4563-A
NAME: COMMUNITY BAKERY -- AMENDED SHORT -FORM PLANNED
COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
LOCATION: At the southwest corner of S. Main St. and W. 12th.
St., at 1202 S. Main St.
DEVELOPER: ARCHITECT:
Joseph C. Fox Terry Burruss
COMMUNITY BAKERY, INC. TERRY BURRUSS, ARCHITECT
1202 S. Mair_ St. 1621 S. Battery St.
Little Rock, AR 72202 Little Rock, AR 72202
375-8656 376-3676
AREA: 0.49 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0
ZONING: PCD PROPOSED USES: Restaurant, Offices,
and Residential
PLANNING DISTRICT: 8
CENSUS TRACT: 1
VARIANCES REOUESTED: None
BACKGROUND:
The Community Bakery is one element of a larger PCD plan, the
"Main Street Project", which extended from 12th. St. to 14th.
St., and from the alley between Center and Louisiana Streets on
the west to Scott St. on the east. The PCD was approved by the
Planning Commission on November 26, 1985, then was established by
the Board of Directors on December 17, 1985, in Ordinance No.
15,016.
STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL:
The applicant proposes to amend the approved site plan for the
Community Bakery development to modify the arrangement of the
parking lots and the alignment of the alley. The approved site
plan provided for an offset in the alley to the west of its
original/existing location, with parking behind/to the west of
the Community Bakery building, between the building and the alley
alignment, and head -in parking to the west of and off the alley.
The current proposal retains the original/existing alignment of
the alley, without the offset; reduces the number of parking
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO • Z -4563-A
spaces in the parking lot provided between the rear of the
Community Bakery building and the alley; and increases the number
of spaces in the parking lot to the west of the alley. The
applicant proposes to provide 13 parking spaces on the lot
immediately behind the Community Bakery facility, in lieu of the
17 shown on the approved site plan. On the parking lot to the
west of the ally, the applicant proposes to provide 12 "head -in"
spaces off the alley, plus 10 diagonal spaces off a driveway into
the lot. This is in lieu of 14 spaces shown on the approved site
plan for the lot to the west of the re -aligned alley. The
approved site plan, then, provided for a total of 31 parking
spaces; the revised plan provides for 35 spaces, but without re-
aligning the alley and the off -set in its alignment.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Planning Commission review and Board of Directors approval
is requested for an amended site plan for the Community
Bakery PCD development. No variances are requested.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The development of the Community Bakery in its location at
W. 12th. St. and S. Main St. was begun in 1991. The
parking, as planned at that time, was never developed. The
alley was supposed to have been moved west with an offset in
its alignment at the south boundary of the Community Bakery
property line, and head -in parking was supposed to have been
provided off the re -aligned alley. The parking lot behind
the Community Bakery facility was supposed to have included
the land gained from the relocation of the alley. The alley
has not been re -aligned, and traffic continues to use the
alley as originally platted. The unpaved lot to the west of
the alley is used for Community Bakery customer and staff
parking, and the arrangement of the parking is much like it
is proposed to be in its proposed layout.
The existing zoning of the site is PCD. HR and GB zoning
districts lie across Main St. to the east; I-630 lies to the
north; a PRD, an apartment development, lies to the west;
and the Main St. PCD lies to the south of the site.
C. ENGINEERING/UTILITY COMMENTS:
The Public Works staff comments that:
1) The parking lot west of the alley needs to be re-
designed to incorporate all spaces within the lot; the
head -in spaces off the alley should be eliminated.
0a
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -4563-A
2) All parking spaces should be designed to be used by all
vehicles. No "compact car only" spaces should be
provided.
3) Sidewalks and ramps are to be improved west of the
alley.
4) The alley apron is to be constructed to conform to City
standards.
Little Rock Municipal Water Works had no comment.
Little Rock Wastewater Utility noted that a sewer main is
located in the alley.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. noted that they will require
easements.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. approved the submittal without
comment.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal
without comment.
The Fire Department approved the submittal without comment.
The Neighborhoods and Planning Site Plan Review Specialist
comments that the proposed western buffer falls below the 5
feet required by the Zoning Buffer Ordinance and the 4 foot
minimum required by the Landscape Ordinance. The interior
landscaping is short of the Landscape Ordinance requirement
of 337 square feet by 186 square feet.
D. ISSUES/LEGAL/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Traffic Engineering objects to the proposed head -in
perpendicular parking off the alley, and wants the parking
lot design changed to provide a center driveway with parking
provided off this center driveway. Traffic Engineering does
not want vehicles backing into the alley. There is no
objection to leaving the alley in its current alignment.
The plan, as submitted, is deficient in meeting the Zoning
Buffer Ordinance and the Landscape Ordinance requirements.
E. ANALYSIS:
The amended site plan for the development of the Community
Bakery parking lots has unresolved issues which must be
addressed before staff can support the design.
K�
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -4563-A
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends that the item be deferred until the
applicant, his design professional, and City staff can agree
on the parking lot layout.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:
(JULY 20, 1995)
The applicant, Mr. Joe Fox, and Mr. Terry Burruss, the project
architect, were present. Staff outlined the request and reviewed
with Misters Fox and Burruss the comments contained in the
discussion outline. David Scherer, of the Public Works Staff,
and Bill Henry, the Traffic Engineer, discussed the
recommendation regarding the design of the parking lot west of
the alley; that a central drive be utilized, with parking
provided on both sides of the driveway, and the head -in parking
off the alley be eliminated. Mr. Fox and Mr. Burruss responded
that there was a concern that such an arrangement would reduce
the number of parking spaces; that the perpendicular parking
provides more spaces than diagonal parking would provide in a re-
design of the lot. Mr. Fox maintained that the gravel parking
lot which is in use at this time has the perpendicular parking
off the alley, and that there has been no traffic problem with
this arrangement. He pointed out that the approved site plan,
with the alley off -set to the west, has perpendicular parking
backing into the re -aligned alley. He was also concerned that
moving the parking off the alley increased the walking distance
of customers to his establishment. Misters Fox and Burruss,
however, indicated that they would meet with the Public Works
staff and review the options. The Committee forwarded the item
to the full Commission for the public hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (AUGUST 8, 1995)
The Planning Commission being in receipt of a communication from the
applicant requesting deferral the Commission acted on the request by
placing the PUD application on the agenda for September 19, 1995 and
on the Consent Agenda for deferral.
A motion to that effect was made and passed by a vote of 7 ayes,
0 nays and 4 absent.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 31, 1995)
Staff reported that all issues had been resolved; a revised site
plan has been submitted, and both Public Works and the
Neighborhoods and Planning Site Plan Review Specialist have
approved the plan. Staff reviewed with the Committee members the
4
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO • C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -4563-A
revised plan, and the Subdivision Committee forwarded the item to
the full Commission for the Public Hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Staff reported that all concerns of Public Works concerning the
parking lot layout and the issues regarding landscaping have been
resolved. Staff recommended approval of the amended PCD. The item
was included on the Consent Agenda for approval, and was approved
with the vote of 8 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent, 0 abstentions, and
1 open position.
5
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: 1 FILE NO.: S-1074
NAME: JOHNSON RANCH VILLAGE -- PRELIMINARY PLAT
LOCATION: At the southwest corner of Cantrell Rd. and Johnson
Ranch Rd.
DEVELOPER: ENGINEER:
Joe white
EUGENE M. PHEIFER, III WHITE-DATERS & ASSOCIATES, INC.
400 E. 13th. St. 401 S. Victory St.
North Little Rock, AR 72215 Little Rock, AR 72201
375-1246 374-1666
AREA: 36.4 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 103 FT. NEW STREET: 4290
ZONING: R-2 PROPOSED USES: Single -Family Residential
PLANNING DISTRICT: 19
CENSUS TRACT: 42.06
VARIANCES REQUESTED:
1) Approval of a waiver of the requirement that, for the
east boundary street, Johnson Ranch Rd., half street
improvements and a sidewalk be provided.
2) Approval of a waiver of the requirement that sidewalks
be provided on streets within the subdivision.
3} Approval of ,a waiver from the prohibition of double -
frontage lots for lots backing up to Johnson Ranch Rd.
4) Approval of a waiver of the requirement that stormwater
detention be provided within the subdivision, and
permit payment of an in -lieu contribution for off-site
detention.
STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL:
The applicant proposes a single-family development to include 103
single-family lots along approximately 4,290 linear feet of new
streets, plus the retention of the Johnson home site at the
northwest corner of the tract. The subdivision is to be
developed on a 36.4 acre tract, which includes the 3.5 acre tract
for the home site. The minimum and average lot size is to be 70
feet by 120 feet, with front building setback lines at 25 feet.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1074
Lots backing up to Cantrell Rd. and Johnson Ranch Rd., with
frontages on the interior street, are to have a "no vehicle
access" easement platted along their rear property lines; no
vehicular access is to be permitted from the subdivision to
either Cantrell Rd. or Johnson Ranch Rd. The interior streets
are to be public streets; however, no sidewalks are proposed
along these streets. Additional right-of-way is to be dedicated
along the Cantrell Rd. boundary of the site, and a sidewalk along
this right-of-way is to be constructed. A six foot tall privacy
fence is proposed to be constructed along the perimeter of the
development, along the north, south, and east lines of the tract.
The site is outside the Little Rock City Limits, but annexation
to the City is anticipated, with water supply and wastewater
service to be tied to City of Little Rock utilities. The
subdivision is to be developed in three phases; 30 lots along the
south boundary of the tract as Phase I; 38 lots along the east
side of the tract as Phase II; and, 35 lots along the west side
as Phase III.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Planning Commission review and approval of a preliminary
plat is requested.
Planning Commission review and Board of Directors approval
of waivers from specific Ordinance requirements are
requested: 1) a waiver of the requirement that for the east
boundary street, Johnson Ranch Rd., half street improvements
and a sidewalk be provided; 2) a waiver of the requirement
that sidewalks be provided on streets within the
subdivision; 3) a waiver from the prohibition of double -
frontage lots for lots backing up to Johnson Ranch Rd.; and,
4) a waiver of the requirement that stormwater detention be
provided within the subdivision, and permit payment of an
in -lieu contribution for detention.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is currently the Johnson Ranch home site with
accompanying pasture land. A seven -acre stock pond is
centered in the pasture. The topography slopes gently to
the east and northeast.
The existing zoning of the tract is R-2, as well as is all
abutting land to the east, south, and southwest.
Immediately to the west is a strip of land which is zoned C-
3 for the north three-fourths of the west boundary and 0-2
at the southwest corner of the tract. Across Cantrell Rd.
to the north is the access road to The Ranch development,
with C-2 zoning on the land east of the Ranch Blvd.; 0-2 on
the land west of the Ranch Blvd.
2
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1074
C. ENGINEERING/UTILITY COMMENTS:
Public Works comments:
The plat needs street names, boundary line information,
curve data, monument information, and data for all
drainage courses entering and leaving the tract.
A grading and ADPC&E permit will be required. Corps of
Engineers approval is needed in order to fill the pond.
Align the entrance of the subdivision with Ranch Blvd.
across Cantrell Rd.; the name should be Ranch Blvd.
The loop street name should be on the plat and must be
submitted for approval. The small culs-de-sac are to
have outside radii of 45 feet minimum; pavement width
of 25 feet minimum; and the entrance and exist radii at
the street interface shall be 35 feet minimum.
Provision for maintenance of all islands within the
right-of-way must be made in the Bill of Assurance,
with the neighborhood association or developer being
responsible for maintenance of the islands.
Dedicate right-of-way for and improve Johnson Ranch Rd.
along its boundary of the tract. The entire width of
the culvert across the road is to be provided. A 6
foot wide sidewalk is required along the Hwy. 10
frontage. A sidewalk must be provided along the
Johnson Ranch Rd. frontage and along internal streets.
The 36" pipe from Chenal 14B, the 24" from Glean C. in
Chenal 14, and the planned discharge from Chenonceau
Commercial subdivision are draining to the rear corner
of this property. Provide a drainage easement and
underground piping for these discharges. Evaluate the
effects on the downstream drainage systems.
Open ditches are generally not permitted by the
Stormwater Management and Drainage Manual. If ditches
are planned, they must be shown on the preliminary plat
and must be approved by the City Engineer prior to
Planning Commission approval. (Ref. Sec. 31-89.9)
Show any planned drainage ditches on the preliminary
plat. Show water courses entering the site and the
planned exit points for drainage.
Submit drainage and street plans for review. A
stormwater detention analysis is required. Show
planned areas and easements for detention structures.
Obtain AHTD approval for any work in the Hwy. 10 right-
of-way.
ight-
of-way.
3
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO • 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1074
Water Utilities comments that water main extensions and fire
hydrants will be required. In addition to the normal
connection fees, an acreage charge of $150 per acre will
apply to a portion of this development.
Wastewater Utility comments that a sewer main extension,
with easements, will be required.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. will require a 10 foot easement
centered on the property line between lots 4 and 5, and one
to highway 10 at the northwest corner of the tract.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal.
Pulaski County notes that, if the area is not to be annexed
into the City, the County will need street and drainage
design plans, and will need to make inspections of the work
during construction.
The Fire Department approved the submittal without comment.
D. ISSUES/LEGAL/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Sec. 31-87 requires that, in addition to the information
furnished, the name and address of the owner of record and
the source of title giving deed record book and page number
or instrument number for the ownership shall be furnished.
Sec. 31-89 requires that, in addition to the information
furnished, the following be noted: 1) the direction of flow
for all watercourses leaving the tract shall be indicated;
2) a storm drainage analysis, showing the drainage data for
all watercourses entering and leaving the site, shall be
supplied,; 3) a preliminary storm drainage plan incorporat-
ing proposed easements and typical ditch sections shall be
provided; 4) the plat book and page number or instrument
number of all subdivision abutting the proposed subdivision
shall be provided; 5) the bearings of the distances on all
boundary lines, with ties to all corners of record, and all
curve data, shall be shown; 6) the physical description for
all monuments, with size and type of material, shall be
shown; and, 7) municipal boundaries shall be shown.
Sec. 31-91 requires that the Certificate of Preliminary
Engineering Accuracy be executed.
Sec. 31-93 requires that a preliminary Bill of Assurance be
provided.
4
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1074
Sec. 31-231.f states that corner lots in residential
subdivisions shall have a minimum width of 75 feet. Lot 15,
Block 2 is 70 feet wide. Lot 15 must be made wider.
Sec. 31-201 states that "whenever a proposed subdivision
abuts a partially dedicated or constructed public street,
the developer shall provide the minimum of one-half of the
required improvements and right-of-way." Johnson Ranch Rd.,
along the eastern boundary of the tract, must, then, have
right-of-way dedicated and half Master Street Plan improve-
ments made. The developer requests a waiver of the street
and sidewalk improvements along Johnson Ranch Rd., since the
subdivision will take no access to this road. Dedication of
the required right-of-way, however, absent a request for a
waiver of this requirement, shall be dedicated.
Sec. 31-209 requires sidewalks along at least one side of
all standard residential streets. Sidewalks are, then,
required along all interior streets; however, the developer
is seeking a waiver of this requirement.
There are double -frontage lots backing up to Johnson Ranch
Rd. and Highway 10. Sec. 31-232.d permits these where the
lots back up to arterials, but not when they back up to
standard residential streets. The double -frontage lots
backing up to Cantrell Rd., then, are permitted; those
backing up to Johnson Ranch Rd. are not. A waiver of this
prohibition for the Johnson Ranch Rd. lots is requested by
the developer, with the explanation that no vehicular access
is to be taken to Johnson Ranch Rd. A "no vehicle access,'
easement is to be platted along the rear of all lots backing
up to both Johnson Ranch Rd. and to Cantrell Rd.
Public works notes that
required. The developer
requirement, noting that
fee.
E. ANALYSIS•
on-site stormwater detention is
is seeking a waiver of this
he proposes to pay an "in -lieu"
Except for the requested waivers and some minor
deficiencies, the proposed preliminary plat meets the
Subdivision Ordinance requirements. Public works recommends
denial of the waivers dealing with half -street improvements
along Johnson Ranch Rd., including the requested waiver of
providing the sidewalk along Johnson Ranch Rd. and the
waiver of sidewalks within the subdivision. Public Works
recommends that provisions of the Stormwater Detention
Ordinance not be waived. The double -frontage lots along the
Cantrell Rd. boundary of the site are permitted, so long as
the "no vehicle access" easement along Cantrell is provided.
The developer included this provision in his application.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1074
The double -frontage lots along Johnson Ranch Rd. will
require a wavier, which the developer requests, noting that
a "no vehicle access" easement will be provided along this
boundary.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the preliminary plat, subject
to the requested waivers being granted by the Board of
Directors, or subject to the applicant amending his plat to
conform to the Ordinance provisions, and subject to the
Public Works and Utility comments.
Staff recommends denial of the requested waivers for half -
street improvements and the sidewalk along Johnson Ranch Rd.
and for sidewalks within the subdivision.
Staff recommends denial of the waiver from the Stormwater
Detention regulations and recommends denial of the payment
of the "in -lieu" fee as a substitute for providing on-site
stormwater detention.
Staff recommends approval of the waiver of the prohibition
of double -frontage lots for those lots backing up to Johnson
Ranch Rd., with the condition that the proposed "no vehicle
access" easement be platted.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 31, 1995)
Mr. Gene Pheifer, the developer, and Mr. Joe White, with White-
Daters & Associates, were present. Staff reviewed with the
Committee members the layout of the proposed subdivision and the
proposed waivers, and reviewed with the Committee members and the
applicant the comments contained in the discussion outline.
Mr. White indicated that the needed information and revisions
would be provided. He indicated that his staff would consult
with the Public Works staff regarding the Public Works comments.
Mr. White reported that the fence along the perimeter of the
subdivision would be brick or brick and wood, and that provision
for drainage onto and from the site would be made. The Committee
forwarded the preliminary plat to the Commission for the public
hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:
(SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Mr. Gene Pheifer, the applicant, and Mr. Joe White, with White-
Daters & Associates, Inc., were present.
Staff presented the request, and reported that the applicant had
amended his request to delete two of the requested waivers: the
11
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1074
waiver of sidewalks within the subdivision, and the waiver from
the stormwater detention regulations; that two of the waiver
requests were being retained: the waiver from the regulation
which prohibits double -frontage lots, and the wavier from the
regulation which requires boundary street improvements along
Johnson Ranch Rd.
Mr. Joe white outlined the scope of the proposal and reiterated
the requested waivers regarding double -frontage lots and street
improvements on Johnson Ranch Rd. He indicated, however, that
the drainage structure under John Ranch Rd. would be improved, if
that is necessary, even if the waiver of street improvements is
granted. He reported that a brick and wood fence would be
erected at the perimeter of the subdivision abutting existing
residential areas and along Cantrell Rd. He said that a property
owners' association would be established to maintain the common
areas, including medians and islands within the public right-of-
way. He explained that the proposed development would not be
taking access to Johnson Ranch Rd.; therefore, a waiver from the
requirement to make Master Street Plan improvements to the street
was being requested. He added that the home sites along Johnson
Ranch Rd. are 5 -acre sites, and that it would not be appropriate
to change the "country lane" character of the street.
Mr. Louis Gladfelter, identifying himself as living directly
across Johnson Ranch Rd. from the proposed subdivision, spoke in
opposition to the request. He said that the present residents of
the area enjoy a country atmosphere, with their homes being on 5 -
acre lots, and a high quality of life. He contrasted the
existing low density, country style development with the "super
high-density" development of the proposed subdivision, and
complained that the neighbors had never imagined that such a
dense development, which was so out of character with the
neighborhood, would be placed on the property. He expressed
concern that the subdivision would decrease the property values
of the large lot owners. He said that the value of the 5 -acre
tracts, prior to the subdivision's development, would have been
approximately $150,000; after the development, it would be less.
He said that Ms. Opal Bennett, who owns an undeveloped 5 -acre
tract abutting the proposed subdivision on the south, would not
be able to sell her tract for nearly as much after the
development of the subdivision as she could have six months
before the development. He said that stormwater run-off from
Chenal Valley is already causing problems, and that the proposed
subdivision would compound these problems. He requested that a
waiver to permit the homes to back up to Johnson Ranch Rd. not be
granted, and said that the neighbors in the area had developed a
revised suggested subdivision layout.
Ms. Opal Bennett, identifying herself as owning the tract
directly south of, and abutting, the proposed subdivision, spoke
rA
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1074
in opposition to the request. She expressed concern that the
subdivision's development would devalue her 5 -acre tract.
Mr. George Baker, identifying himself as a Johnson Ranch Rd.
resident, spoke in opposition to the request. He said that it is
not that the neighbors object to development of the subject
tract, but it is the nature of the development which is proposed
to which they object. He said that the density of the existing
developments in the area are no where nearly as dense at the
developer is proposing for the subject property. He said that
the homes along Johnson Ranch Rd. are not overly large homes, but
are simply on large lots. He asked that development of the
subject tract take into account the character of the existing
development in the area, and not change the "country lane"
atmosphere which exists.
Dr. Tom Hoffmann, identifying himself as the Johnson Ranch
Association president, spoke in opposition to the request "in its
present form". He said that he lives directly across Johnson
Ranch Rd. from the subdivision which is being planned, at the
southeast corner of Johnson Ranch Rd. and Highway 10. He
indicated that the neighborhood is so opposed to the proposal
that a number of the residents were in attendance at the hearing,
and asked these persons to stand. (A number of persons in the
audience stood.) He said that the residents feel that the
proposed subdivision is inconsistent with the existing
development. He objected to the double -frontage lots which would
back up to Johnson Ranch Rd., saying that back yard activities,
such as working on automobiles, hanging out laundry, or children
playing, and back yard structures, such as dog pens, would not be
what the Johnson Ranch Rd. residents would want to drive past as
they enter or leave their neighborhood. He said that the
proposal to construct a wood and brick privacy fence along
Johnson Ranch Rd. to conceal the back yard activities would not
be a "beautiful thing" to drive past every day. He complained
that the houses which are proposed to be built in the subdivision
would be smaller and cheaper than any other homes being built in
the area. He said that the Neighborhood Association desires to
keep the "country lane atmosphere" of their neighborhoods that
the residents do not oppose development of the subject tract, but
oppose the density, the proximity of smaller lots and homes to
their neighborhood, and the fact that rear yards will back up to
their neighborhood. He said that the neighborhood had developed
a couple of alternate subdivision plans, which he wanted to
present for consideration. He maintained that the alternate
plans would retain the economic viability of the developer's
project, and, at the same time, take into account the
expectations of the neighborhood for retention of its country
lane setting. He then presented two possible subdivision layouts
to the Commission, one of which proposed large acreage lots
facing Johnson Ranch Rd., with the inward -facing lots to the
subdivision being smaller; and, for the second, proposed a "green
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1074
space" buffer along Johnson Ranch Rd.. The first proposal would
decrease the number of lots by only a few lots, but, he said, the
developer would be able to charge more for the larger lots facing
Johnson Ranch Rd. The second proposal would not affect the
number of lots. He asked, then, that the proposal, as submitted,
be denied, and that the requested variances be denied.
Commissioner Putnam explained that, if the size of the proposed
lots meets the Subdivision Ordinance requirements for the zoning
which is in place for the property, the Planning Commission
cannot force a developer to plat larger lots, simply to be in
keeping with other development in the area.
Deputy City Attorney Steve Giles confirmed Commissioner Putnam's
statement regarding the Commission's inability to enforce
provisions which exceed the minimum requirements of the
Subdivision Regulations.
Mr. Tom Deluca, identifying himself as president of the Westbury
Neighborhood Association, spoke in support of the request. He
explained that his neighborhood is also a development of Gene
Pheifer's, and that Mr. Pheifer has cooperated with the
neighborhood in improvements and project which would benefit the
subdivision. He said that the Neighborhood Association had voted
to support Mr. Pheifer's development of the subject property.
Ms. Ruth Bell, with the League of Women Voters of Pulaski County,
spoke in support of the request. She said that the League
supported the proposal because the development is in conformance
with the Highway 10 Plan, and because the League supports
diversity in housing in neighborhoods. She said that
neighborhoods in older parts of town, which have remained
dynamic, have been diverse; that they have housing stock which
include starter homes, duplexes, apartments, and mansions. She
said that the diverse mix of residential areas is healthy.
Mr. Gene Pheifer responded to the opposition to his proposed
development, saying that the Bill of Assurance of the Johnson
Ranch property, which included the 5 -acre tracts along Johnson
Ranch Rd., permitted development of the tracts fronting on
Highway 10 for all non-commercial development. He said that,
consequently, the subject property could have been developed in a
way which would have been less conducive to the retention of the
residential character of the area, and that the purchasers of the
5 -acre tracts do not have a right of expect more protection than
that which was afforded by their Bill of Assurance. They did
not, he maintained, have a right to expect the subject tract to
be developed in large 5 -acre tracts, since this was never
anticipated. He said that the Bill of Assurance for the Johnson
Ranch property, under which the 5 -acre tracts were developed,
required a minimum of 2,500 square foot homes; his proposed
subdivision is to have minimum 2,000 square foot homes. This, he
9
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1074
said, is not that much of a departure from the standards of the
homes in the area. He said that the homes on the large lots are
on septic tanks, thus requiring the larger lots. His lots, on
the other hand, would be on public sewer; that, as a consequence,
the larger lots are not required. He said that more density is
not necessarily bad, and that cities are encouraging more dense
developments to protect the ecology and to prohibit urban sprawl.
He said that the homes he proposed to build in the subject
subdivision would be a minimum of 2,000 square feet and would
cost $160,000 to $180,000, and that he would not characterize the
people who would be living in these homes as the types who would
work on their cars or hang their laundry in their back yards. He
said that the proposed subdivision design presented by Dr.
Hoffmann had some merits, and that he and his engineer would
review the layout.
Mr. White stated that the developer and he would amend the
proposal to include provision of a buffer along Johnson Ranch
Rd., with a privacy fence to be located between the buffer and
the internal lots. This, he said, would eliminate the need for
the waiver of the prohibition of double -frontage lots, and, he
said, he hopped the Johnson Ranch Rd. residents would support the
remaining request for the waiver of street improvements to
Johnson Ranch Rd.
Commissioner Adcock asked if there could be buffering of the
south property line from Ms. Bennett's property.
Mr. White pointed out that Ms. Bennett has a vacant 5 -acre lot,
and that, when the lot is developed, any desired buffering could
be accomplished within the 5 acres. To take a 40 or 50 foot
buffer from the subject subdivision would take out five lots, and
would be very costly.
Mr. Pheifer said that Ms. Bennett had owned the tract for 18
years; that she had known for that time period that she was
abutting land that could be developed for all "non-commercial,,
uses; that the development of the abutting tract would not be
large home sites; and, that during that time period, she could
have planted pine trees to create whatever buffer she desired.
Mr. white said that, with the development of the subdivision, the
stormwater drainage will be directed mostly towards Highway 10,
and will alleviate some of the problem of drainage across Johnson
Ranch Rd. to the east.
Mr. Dennis Merrit, indicating that he lived at #4 Johnson Ranch
Rd., said that stormwater drainage in the area was a problem;
that he was having problems with run-off from Chenal valley, and
he could imagine that Dr. Hoffmann would have problems, as well.
He said that he had been assured that the drainage problems would
be addressed, but, he said, it has not been.
10
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO • 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1074
David Scherer, with the Public Works staff, responded to the
complaint about drainage, saying that the Johnson Ranch
subdivision was developed using an open ditch means of dealing
with stormwater drainage, and that drain culverts are probably
under sized. He explained that the drainage from Chenal Valley
would be retained, once the retention structures were completed.
He explained that, while a subdivision is being developed, and
prior to the stormwater detention system being completed, there
can be a problem, but that, once the system is complete, the
release of stormwater onto abutting property should not be any
greater than that released prior to development. He said that
Mr. Merrit°s complaint regarding run-off from Chenal Valley would
be addressed when the stormwater dentition system in Chenal
Valley is complete.
Chairman Walker, summarizing the proposal, indicated that the
requested action was approval of an amended preliminary plat,
with a 50 foot buffer from the edge of Johnson Ranch Rd. along
the eastern boundary of the proposed subdivision, including a
privacy fence along the west side of the buffer. The amended
preliminary plat was approved with the vote of 8 ayes, 0 nays, 2
absent, 0 abstentions, and 1 open position, subject to approval
by the Board of Directors of the waiver of Master Street Plan
improvements to Johnson Ranch Rd.
Staff explained that, with the buffer separating the lots which
were shown to back up to Johnson Ranch Rd., that no waiver of the
restriction on double -frontage lots would be needed.
Staff explained that, with the creation of a tract for the
buffer, and if the developer does not final plat the tract, there
will be no requirement to construct Johnson Ranch Rd.
Mr. White said that, to avoid any confusion or opportunity for a
claim of deception, he would prefer to pursue the street waiver.
Chairman Walker called for the question on the waiver of
improvements to Johnson Ranch Rd., indicating that the residents
along Johnson Ranch Rd. support the waiver; that they do not want
Johnson Ranch Rd. changed from its "country lane,, character. The
Commission recommended approval of the waiver with the vote of
7 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent, 1 abstention (Putnam), and 1 open
position.
11
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: 2 FILE NO.: S-1077
NAME: LEAWOOD PLACE -- PRELIMINARY PLAT
LOCATION: West of the present end of Mountain Dr., Janwood Dr.,
Flintwood Dr., and Evergreen Dr., and south of the present end of
Leatrice Dr., approximately 3/4 mile west of Mississippi Ave. in
the Leawood area.
DEVELOPER•
JACK LARRISON
11518 Fairview Rd.
Little Rock, AR 72212
225-5160
ENGINEER:
John R. Pownall
THOMAS ENGINEERING
3810 Lookout Rd.
North Little Rock, AR 72216
753-4463
AREA: 14 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 16 FT. NEW STREET: 1700
ZONING: R-2 PROPOSED USES: Single -Family Residential
PLANNING DISTRICT: 3
CENSUS TRACT: 22.03
VARIANCES REQUESTED:
1) Approval of a waiver of the prohibition of double -
frontage lots.
2) Approval of a variance from the requirement for lots to
have a minimum of 60 feet of frontage on a public
street and approval of a waiver of the requirement that
turn -around devices be provided in the subdivision for
Lots 1, 2, and 3.
3) Approval of a variance from the provision that the
depth of lots not exceed three times their width.
4) Approval of a waiver from the requirements of the
Hillside Regulations which establishes maximum number
of lots and minimum lot sizes, and requires submission
of a Hillside analysis.
STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL:
Proposed is a 16 lot subdivision on a 14 acre tract of "left-
over" land lying between two existing subdivisions and Grassy
Flat Creek. The tract lies beyond the present dead-end of five
streets in abutting subdivisions. The applicant plans to develop
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1077
three of the lots, at the northeast corner of the tract, as an
initial phase, with access to these lots being provided from the
dead-end of Mountain Dr. and of Leatrice Dr. The lot lines are
proposed to split the rights-of-way of these streets, with
driveways to the lots being provided from the dead-end streets;
no turn -around devices are proposed. The remaining 13 lots are
to be developed as phase two and will take access from extensions
of Janwood and Flintwood Drs. These streets are proposed to have
turn -around devices constructed at their terminations. The
Grassy Flat Creek floodway lying within the boundary of the
subdivision is to be retained and designated as a recreation
area, with access to this area being from the dead-end of
Evergreen Dr. and from an access easement from the west end of
Flintwood Dr. Lots 1 and 2 are each to have 25 feet of frontage
on Mountain Dr.; Lots 2 and 3 are each to have 25 feet of
frontage on Leatrice Dr. Lots 1, 2, and 3 are also to have
frontage on the extension of Janwood Dr. Likewise, Lots 9, 10,
11, and 12 are to have frontages on both Janwood Dr. and the
extension of Flintwood Dr. The applicant proposes to develop the
lots along the extension of Janwood and Flintwood Drs. in keeping
with the width and depth of lots in the developed portion of the
neighborhood, and proposes a 15 foot front building setback line
as is in keeping with the front setback line along the developed
section of Janwood and Flintwood Drs.
A. PROPOSAL/REOUEST:
Planning Commission review and approval of a preliminary
plat is requested.
Planning Commission review and Board of Directors approval
of waivers from specific Ordinance requirements are
requested: 1) a waiver of the prohibition of double -
frontage lots in residential subdivisions; 2) a variance
from the provision which requires lots to have a minimum of
60 feet of frontage on a public street and a companion
issue, a waiver of the requirement that turn -around devices
be provided in the subdivision for Lots 1, 2, and 3; 3) a
variance from the requirement that the depth of lots not
exceed three times their width; and, 4) a waiver from the
requirements of the Hillside Regulations which establishes
maximum number of lots and minimum lot sizes, and requires
submission of a Hillside analysis.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is currently undeveloped, heavily wooded, and
extremely hilly. The 100 -year floodway line elevation along
Grassy Flat Creek at the southern boundary of the tract is
at an elevation of approximately 360. The elevation at the
northeast corner of the tact, at the high point, is 547, a
187 foot elevation differential. There is an average slope
2
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1077
across the tract of 28% grade. Leatrice Dr. dead -ends into
the tract from the north; Mountain Dr., Janwood Dr.,
Flintwood Dr. and Evergreen Dr. dead-end into the tract from
the east.
The site is zoned R-2, as is the abutting land to the north
and east, and across Grassy Flat Creek to the southwest. At
the northwest corner of the tract is an R-5 zoned area, and
a point contact with an OS zoned strip. To the south is a
point contact with a small triangular shaped R-5 zoned
tract.
C. ENGINEERING/UTILITY COMMENTS:
Public Works comments:
Show boundary line information and curve data.
Provide right-of-way for and construct approved turn-
around devices at the end of each street in or entering
the subdivision. Each turn -around device shall
accommodate SU vehicles (garbage trucks). The hammer-
head turn -around design at the extension of Janwood Dr.
and Flintwood Dr. are not acceptable. A turn -around
device must be provided within the plat boundary for
Mountain Dr., Leatrice Dr., and Evergreen Dr.
Sidewalks are required along all streets.
A grading permit and ADPC&E permit is required. A SFHA
Development permit is required prior to construction.
Minimum floor elevations are required on lots in the
floodplain. Access and maintenance easements or
dedication of the land to the City are required for
land in the floodway.
Open ditches are generally not permitted by the
Stormwater Management and Drainage Manual. If ditches
are planned, they must be shown on the preliminary plat
and be approved by the City Engineer prior to Planing
Commission approval. (Ref. Sec. 31-89.9) Show any
planned drainage ditches on the preliminary plat.
Show water courses entering the site and the planned
exit points for drainage. Plan must provide for the
100 -year water to cross the platted lots in an open
unrestricted easement. Drainage from the ends of
Mountain and Leatrice Drs. must be addressed in the
drainage plan.
3
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1077
Public Works comments (Continued):
Provide a stormwater detention analysis and storage
easements.
Show a "no vehicular access" easement along the rear
lot lines of the double frontage lots.
Water Works comments that an acreage charge of $150/acre
applies to this tract. These charges are in addition to the
normal connection charges.
Wastewater Utility comments that a sewer main extension,
with easements, will be required.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. approved the submittal without
comment.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. will require easements along
the east, north, and west boundaries of the tract.
The Fire Department approved the submittal, but cautioned
that the grades may exceed the maximum grades for access to
the site.
D. ISSUES/LEGAL/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Sec. 31-87 requires that, in addition to the information
furnished, the average and minimum sizes of proposed lots be
reported, and the existing and proposed covenants and
restrictions be furnished.
Sec. 31-89 requires that, in addition to the information
furnished: 1) sidewalks be shown on the plat and provided,
unless a waiver is requested; 2) a preliminary storm
drainage plan incorporating proposed easement dimensions and
typical ditch sections be shown; 3) the names of owners of
unplatted tracts abutting the subdivision be shown; 4) the
physical description of all monuments is to be shown,
indicating size and type of material; and, 5) the location
of proposed PAGIS monuments is to be noted.
Sec. 31-91 requires that the Certificates of Preliminary
Surveying Accuracy be executed.
Sec. 31-93 requires that a preliminary Bill of Assurance be
furnished.
4
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1077
Division 8 (Sects. 31-367 thru 31-376), the Hillside
Regulations, requires that the total number of lots
permitted be determined; then, that at least 800 of the lots
conform to the minimum required lot size, and the average
size of all lots shall conform to the minimum lot
requirement. Sec. 31-369 says that staff and the
Subdivision Committee shall review and approve the slope
analysis; then, that the subdivider shall prepare the
preliminary plat to conform to the lot sizes established.
Sec. 31-232.d prohibits double -frontage lots, but provides
that, in hillside areas, as defined in the Hillside
Regulations, such lots may be used to facilitate
development.
Sec. 31-232 states that the minimum lot dimensions shall
conform to the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance for the
particular district in which the lot lies. Sec. 36-254
requires a minimum lot width of 60'. The three lots in
Phase One, Lots 1, 2, and 3, are shown to have one-half of
the 50 foot right-of-way frontage only, or 25 feet of
frontage.
Sec. 31-232.b states that no residential lot shall be more
than three times as deep as it is wide.
The area noted as "Recreation Area" is in the Grassy Flat
floodway. This floodway area needs to be dedicated to the
City or designated as a tract. If it is retained by the
developer, the Bill of Assurance needs to provide for the
permanent maintenance of this tract.
E. ANALYSIS•
There is critical information which has not been furnished
to staff, most notably, the Hillside analysis. Without this
information, staff cannot determine if the proposed number
of lots and minimum and average size of lots conforms to the
Hillside Regulations. The applicant indicates that he
wishes to continue the same size lots into the new
subdivision as those in the existing development to the
east. There may be justification for some variance from the
regulations, but staff cannot make a recommendation for
approval of such a variance without the analysis.
Public Works notes that a turn -around device, in which the
automated garbage trucks can operate, must be provided at
the termination of each street. The three lots making up
Phase One, Lots 1, 2, and 3, omit the required turn -around
device, and the applicant is seeking a waiver of the
requirement for these lots, seeking, instead, to permit the
frontage of the lots to be one-half of the width of the
5
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1077
"dead-end" right-of-way, or 25 feet. Public Works comments,
that from a traffic perspective, two side-by-side driveways
entering the lots at the end of Mountain and Leatrice Drs.
will create a safety concern, since cars entering or leaving
the private drives will have to drive the wrong way on the
wrong side of the public street in order to cross over to
one or the other of the driveways. This is an unacceptable
situation, and driving the wrong way on the street will not
be permitted. Public Works notes, also, that the automated
garbage trucks cannot operate in the situation posed, and,
from this perspective, as well, the design is unacceptable.
The regulations permit the use of double -frontage lots to
facilitate development in hillside conditions. A "no
vehicular access" easement needs to be platted along the
rear of the affected lots.
Lots 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are excessively deep, and exceed the
maximum depth permitted by Sec. 31-232.b which restricts the
depth of lots to three times their width. The applicant,
however, requests a variance from this restriction, saying
that the rear part of these lots is inaccessible for any
other use but to be included as a part of the abutting lots.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends that the public hearing on the preliminary
plat be deferred until the application information (e.g.,
the Hillside analysis) is complete and staff has had an
opportunity to review the information.
Staff recommends approval of the requested waiver of the
prohibition of double -frontage lots in residential
subdivisions.
Staff recommends denial of the requested variance from the
requirement for lots to have a minimum of 60 feet of
frontage on a public street, and recommends denial of the
requested waiver of the requirement that turn -around devices
be provided in the subdivision for Lots 1, 2, and 3.
Staff recommends approval of the requested variance from the
provision that the depth of lots not exceed three times
their width.
Staff recommends denial of the requested waiver from the
requirements of the Hillside Regulations which establishes
maximum number of lots and minimum lot sizes, and requires
submission of a Hillside analysis.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5-1077
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 31, 1995)
Mr. Jack Larrison, the developer, and Mr. John Pownall, with
Thomas Engineering, were present. Staff reviewed with the
Committee members the proposed subdivision layout and variance
requests, and reviewed with the Committee members and the
applicant and his engineer the comments contained in the
discussion outline. The Public Works staff representative, David
Scherer, reviewed with Mr. Larrison and Mr. Pownall the Public
Works comments. There was discussion about the comment that
possibly Mountain Dr. and Leatrice Dr. should be connected, with
Misters Larrison and Pownall pointing out that extending the
streets to connect would not only provide a traffic pattern that
would not be desired by the abutting property owners, but would
take all the buildable areas of the three proposed lots. Public
Works was insistent that some type of turn -around provision be
made for the termination on Mountain Dr. and Leatrice Dr., saying
that garbage collection vehicles would need to be able to service
the lots and would need to be able to turn around, and pointing
out that, without a turn -around device, vehicles entering and
leaving the two driveways off the ends of the streets would be
crossing driving paths and creating a traffic hazard. The
Planning staff discussed the need for providing the hillside
analysis and for further discussion on the variances needed and
to be requested by the developer. Mr. Pownall responded that he
would provided the needed information and would address the
comments contained in the discussion outline. The Committee
forwarded the preliminary plat to the Commission for the public
hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Mr. John Pownall, with Thomas Engineering, was present.
Staff presented an overview of the application, explaining that,
since the staff report had been prepared, the applicant had met
with both the Planning and Public Works staff and had remedied
the deficiencies and concerns noted in the agenda "write-up", and
that staff recommended approval of the preliminary plat and of
the following variances: 1) a variance for Lot 3 from the
requirement that lots in the R-2 zoning district have a minimum
frontage on a public street of 60 feet, and permit Lot 3 to have
50 feet of frontage on Leatrice Dr.; 2) a variance from the
requirement that lots have a maximum depth of not more than three
times their width for Lots 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8; 3) a waiver from
the prohibition that lots not have frontage on more than one
public street, and permit all the lots to have double -frontages
on public streets; and, 4) a variance from the Hillside
Regulation which requires, for the subject property, 23,000
7
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S-1077
square foot minimum lots, and permit lots of less than 23,000
square feet.
Mr. Pownall presented the revised preliminary plat, and outlined
the proposal.
David Scherer, of the Public Works staff, reported that, except
for a concern that the off -set culs-de-sac at the end of Janwood
and Flintwood Drives would not permit the "SU" vehicles to
maneuver within the cul-de-sac, that Public Works supported the
revised plan. He explained that the developer may need to revise
the culs-de-sac to either change their alignment or widen the
approach to each. He also suggested that the cul-de-sac at the
end of Flintwood Dr. be relocated to the east, so that it is
pulled away from the east boundary of Lot 8, and that the
arraignment of lots surrounding this cul-de-sac be changed to a
more convention cul-de-sac arrangement.
Staff explained that Mr. Pownall had shown that the Hillside
Regulations permit the number of lots proposed, but that, in lieu
of unusable land being included in individual lot in order to
meet the 23,000 square foot lot size, this unbuildable land is
being left as an undivided recreation area which is to be
maintained by a property owners' association or the developer.
Staff explained that the variance on the lot sizes could be
supported, since the lot density is not being increased beyond
the Hillside Regulations maximum requirements.
A motion as made and seconded to approve the preliminary plat and
to recommend to the Board of Directors approval of the cited
variances. The motion was approved with the vote of 8 ayes,
0 nays, 2 absent, 0 abstentions, and 1 open position.
3
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: 3 FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
NAME: BOWMAN ROAD -- AMENDED SHORT -FORM PLANNED COMMERCIAL
DEVELOPMENT
LOCATION: On the east side of S. Bowman Rd., approximately 0.1
mile south of W. Markham St.
DEVELOPER: ENGINEER:
John A. Rees Pat McGetrick
REES DEVELOPMENT, INC. MCGETRICK ENGINEERING
12115 Hinson Rd. 11225 Huron Ln., Suite 200
Little Rock, AR 72212 Little Rock, AR 722111
223-9298 223-9900
AREA: 2.33 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0
ZONING: PCD PROPOSED USES: C-1 permitted uses; video store; &
C-1 Conditional Use for an eating
place without drive-in service
PLANNING DISTRICT: 2
CENSUS TRACT: 24.04
VARIANCES REQUESTED: Approval of a waiver of the requirement
that 5 additional feet of right-of-way be dedicated.
BACKGROUND:
The site was zoned PCD by Ordinance No.16,573, passed by the
Board of Directors on January 18, 1994. This followed the public
hearing at the Planning Commission on November 16, 1993. The
uses for the site were limited to those contained in the schedule
of permitted uses in the C-1, Neighborhood Commercial, zoning
district, plus an additional use, a video rental store.
Additional conditions were: 1) dumpster pickup was to be limited
to 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 2) no doors or windows were to be allowed
on the rear, east, side of the building (except emergency doors
required by the Fire Marshal); 3) a 6 foot high screening fence
was to be erected along the top of the retaining wall and
continue along the retaining wall alignment 20 feet off the rear
property line; and, 4) evergreen plantings, which, when mature,
will grow to a minimum of 15 feet in height, were to be planted
in the 20 foot wide buffer strip along the rear, east, property
line, and were to be planted to overlap to provide a solid
screening of the site from the east.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL:
The applicant proposes to amend his approved PCD to both modify
the site plan and to add an additional use to the listing of
approved uses. The applicant proposes: 1) to change the rear,
east, landscape buffer from 20 feet in depth to 8 feet in depth;
2) to construct an access drive behind (to the east of) the
southernmost building and a partial drive (50 feet from both the
north and south ends of the building) behind the northernmost
building; 3) to change the square footage of the buildings on
the site to a total of 45,600 square feet in lieu of the 33,250
square feet previously approved (with the southernmost building
being 12,000 square feet in lieu of the 9,000 square feet which
was approved, and the northernmost building being two floors at
16,800 square feet each, or 33,600 square feet total, in lieu of
the 24,250 square foot building originally approved, with its
lower floor area having been 7,125 square feet and upper floor
area having been 17,175 square feet); and 4) to add a restaurant
use to the listing of approved uses. The restaurant is proposed
to be a "sit-down" restaurant.
A waiver from the requirement that 5 additional feet of right-of-
way along Bowman Rd. be dedicated is requested.
A. PROPOSAWREQUEST:
Review by the Planning Commission and approval by the Board
of Directors is requested for an amended PCD and for a
waiver of the requirement that 5 additional feet of right-
of-way along Bowman Rd. be dedicated.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is undeveloped, but has been cleared of trees and
vegetation, and has been graded in preparation for
development. The site slopes generally downward from a high
point at the south property line to a low point at the
northeast corner of the tract, with a total differential in
grades of 63 feet.
The site is presently zoned PCD. Land to the north and
across Bowman Rd. to the west is zoned C-3. The lot to the
south is zoned C-1. The Birchwood Subdivision, with its R-2
zoning, lies to the east.
2
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO • 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
C. ENGINEERING/UTILITY COMMENTS:
Public Works comments that:
1) An additional 5 feet of right-of-way for Bowman
Rd., a minor arterial roadway, must be dedicated.
2) The proposed partial access drive behind the
northernmost building should be a through drive to
provide emergency access.
3) A complete grading plan will be required prior to
any building permit being approved.
4) The required stormwater detention analysis must be
provided, and the effects on downstream systems
must be evaluated. Provide for the 100 -year
discharge from the site through adjacent
properties.
5) The proposed retaining wall shall be constructed
as a terraced wall, with the maximum height being
10 feet at any location. The first wall behind
the properties to the east shall be located a
horizontal distance, as a minimum, equal to the
height of the wall.
Water Works comments that on-site fire protection may be
required.
Wastewater comments that sewer service is available on the
west side of Bowman Rd. and east of the property on Autumn
Rd. Sewer main extensions, with easements, will be
required.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. will require a 15 foot easement
along the rear, east, property line.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal.
The Fire Department noted that on-site fire hydrants may be
needed.
The Neighborhoods and Planning Site Plan Review Specialist
commented that:
Areas set aside for buffers and landscaping meet
minimum Ordinance requirements.
Site Plan Review Specialist comments, continued:
3
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
A 6 foot high opaque screen is required along the east
perimeter of the site. This screen may either be a
wood fence, with its face directed outward, or be
evergreen shrubs which are 30" in height at planting,
spaced every 3 feet.
Curb and guttering or another approved border will be
required to protect landscaped areas from vehicular
traffic.
Because of the proposed grade elevation difference
along the eastern side of the property, additional
buffer width may be necessary.
D. ISSUES/LEGAL/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
A parking analysis needs to be submitted, not just a listing
of the number of spaces provided. Staff needs an analysis,
based on the square footage of each of the proposed uses in
order to make a determination on the adequacy of the number
of parking spaces provided. The plan proposes 109 parking
spaces. This represents one space for each 418 square feet
of building area. Sec. 36-502 requires, for business and
professional office uses, that one parking space for each
400 square feet of gross floor area is to be provided; for
general business and retail sales, one space for each 300
square feet of floor area is to be provided; and, for
restaurants, one space for each 100 square feet of floor
area is to be provided.
The original PCD showed two buildings. The north building
was to have 24,250 square feet (7,125 on the lower level and
17,175 on the upper level), and the south building was to
have 9,000 square feet, for a total of 33,250 square feet,
representing 25.7% building coverage. The new proposal is
for two buildings, with a total of 45,600 square feet and a
building coverage of 28.3%. Sec. 36-299 requires the
building coverage for C-1 districts not to exceed 35% of the
lot area. Other commercial districts do not have building
coverage limits.
In the originally approved PCD, the requirement to dedicate
the additional 5 feet of right-of-way along Bowman Rd. was
not specified by Public Works, and is not a requirement of
the approved PCD.
4
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
E. ANALYSIS•
The original PCD required a 20 foot, heavily planted, buffer
along the rear, east, property line; this request reduces
this buffer to 8 feet. The retaining wall, 8 feet off the
property line, stands as much as 28.5 feet above the
finished grade at one point behind the north building, and
generally ranges in the 16 to 20 foot high range for most of
the length of the rear, east, property line. From both the
landscaping buffer requirement and the Public Works civil
engineering perspective, this proposed condition is
unacceptable. The buffer width is insufficient, and the
shear wall, without "benches", without providing a terraced
effect, is unacceptable.
The original PCD specifically denied any doors or windows,
or any driveways along the rear, east, face of the property,
excluding any emergency doors required by the Fire Marshal.
The new PCD requests driveways along the entire length of
one of the buildings and over half the length of the other.
Since a walk and drive are proposed in this area, it is
presumed that loading from the rear facade is anticipated,
and that doors are proposed. Activity at the rear, east,
face of the building is a significant change from the
originally negotiated and subsequently approved concept for
the development. This is unacceptable.
The original PCD specifically excluded dumpsters from the
rear property line area; the proposed development places the
dumpsters in this area. Again, this change is unacceptable.
The original PCD specifically limited dumpster service
hours; no change in this provision has been made by the
applicant.
The original PCD recognized the necessity for buffering the
non-residential uses from the residential neighborhood to
the east. Landscape buffering was to be heavy. Commercial
activity was to be excluded from the rear, east, facade of
the building and from the eastern part of the lot. This
approved concept has changed drastically, and is not
acceptable.
The proposed parking provisions appear insufficient for the
types of uses proposed. The development is, basically, a
"shopping center" (to use the applicant's terminology); yet,
the parking is deficient for even an office development, let
along a commercial development. A restaurant use requires
much more parking than is allotted.
5
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
The proposal anticipates a lot coverage of 28.3%. Even with
a 5 foot right-of-way dedication, the lot coverage only
increases to 29.1%. The C-1, Neighborhood Commercial,
zoning district permits up to 35% coverage. Although the
originally approved PCD had a lot coverage of 25.7%, and the
new proposal has increased this percentage, it is still in
line with the allowable coverage of the C-1 zoning district.
(The permitted uses in the approved PCD are C-1 uses.)
The Planning staff reports that the site is located in the
I-430 Planning District. The adopted Land Use Plan
recommends "Mixed Office Commercial" uses for the site. The
proposed amended PCD makes the use exclusively a commercial
center, and the Planning staff believes that the intensity
of the use is not appropriate. The City, in approving the
existing PCD, already compromised the Plan by not requiring
a mixture of office and commercial uses in the PCD. The
amended request does not meet the intent of the original
compromise.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends denial of the amended PCD, and recommends
denial of the waiver of the requirement to dedicate the
additional right-of-way along Bowman Rd.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 31, 1995)
Mr. John Rees, the developer, and Mr. Pat McGetrick, with
McGetrick Engineering, were present. Staff outlined to the
Committee members the nature of the request, and the Committee
reviewed with Mr. Rees and Mr. McGetrick the comments contained
in the discussion outline. David Scherer, with the Public Works
staff, discussed the Public Works comments; specifically, he
reviewed the comments concerning the needed design change in the
sheer retaining wall along the rear property line. Staff
discussed the changes regarding access to the rear of the
building and the change in buffer width. Mr. Rees responded that
he needed the changes to accommodate the intended tenants in the
development, and said that modifying the retaining wall as
described by Public Works would eliminate access to the rear of
the building. He concluded that he would have to pursue approval
of the site plan as presented, without making the modifications
required by staff. The Committee forwarded the request to the
full Commission for the public hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Mr. John Rees, the developer, was present.
0
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
Staff outlined the request, noting the fact and conditions of the
earlier PCD approval, and contrasting these with the current
request. Staff noted that there are a number of staff concerns,
as well as there being neighborhood opposition. Staff explained
that, even with the applicant's designation of 15,600 square feet
of the north building as a furniture store, with 10,920 square
feet of this store being designated for warehousing, the Parking
Regulations require 154 parking spaces on the site, with 109
spaces being provided. Staff said that if the applicant deletes
the restaurant use, 124 paring spaces would be required on site.
This still, staff explained, exceeds the requirements of the
Parking Regulations. Staff noted that, in a planned development,
the Parking Regulations may be used as a guide, and are not
mandatory; but, that the site needs to have sufficient parking
for patrons and employees.
Mr. Rees recounted the changes in the site plan and use list from
the previously approved PCD, but indicated that, due to the
neighborhood opposition and to the number of parking spaces
required for a restaurant use, he was amending his request to
delete the restaurant use from the current application. He
reported that, at a meeting with David Scherer, with the Public
Works staff, a discussion of a "tiered" or terraced retaining
wall had taken place, but Mr. Rees explained that, if such a wall
were installed, the first tier of the wall would have to be
placed on the property line in order for him to retain the rear
drive and access to the buildings. He said that he had talked
with abutting neighbors, and would agree to plant shrubbery in
the abutting property owner's back yards, if the wall were to be
constructed on the property line. He related that, as the
developer of the property, he was not interested in developing a
property with insufficient parking, but that he felt that, with
the types of tenants which he was soliciting, the 109 parking
spaces shown on the site plan would provide sufficient parking.
Staff reported that a letter and petition had been received from
the Birchwood Neighborhood Association expressing the
Association's opposition to the proposed amended PCD. Staff
indicated that a copy of this letter had been placed at each of
the Commissioner's desk.
Mr. Pat McGetrick, the project engineer, reported that the plan
calls for all stormwater to be collected in an enclosed
underground drainage system, and for the stormwater to be
retained in an underground detention system and discharged to a
catch basin on Bowman Rd. He said that no stormwater would be
diverted towards the subdivision, and that, once the site is
developed, the problem the abutting property owners are currently
experiencing with the stormwater run-off will be corrected.
Mr. F. B. Boyd, vice-president of and representing the Birchwood
Neighborhood Association, spoke in opposition to the amended PCD.
7
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
He related that the Association supported Mr. Rees' removing the
restaurant from the applicant, but that the Association also
objected to the drive -around behind the buildings and to the
decrease of the buffer area along the east property line. He
said that the Association also objects to the height of the
retaining wall which the abutting property owners would have to
look at. He presented a petition from the Association in
opposition to the application.
Mr. Havis Jacks, identifying himself as an abutting property
owner, spoke in opposition to the amended PCD. He said that he
opposed the restaurant use; he opposed the decrease in the buffer
depth; he opposed any loading docks in the rear of the building;
and, he opposed the dumpsters being located at the rear of the
buildings. He said that the abutting property owners would be
looking at the back of the buildings and at the retaining wall,
and, despite how nice the drawings of the front of the shopping
center look, he and his neighbors would not be seeing that view.
Mr. Bill Ruck, identifying himself as living on Birchwood Dr.,
right around the corner from Alamo Dr., spoke in opposition to
the request. He recalled that, in approving the PCD originally,
the Commission and Birchwood residents had "bent over backward"
to make concessions so that the property would be a usable and
developable piece of property, and he objected to the developer
now proposing to decrease the buffer depth from 20 feet to 8
feet, and to increase the building size by 30%. He pointed out
that, by elevating the buildings and activity to the top of the
retaining wall, Alamo residents will be looking up to a higher
plane where the activity will be taking place, and that the
activities will not be screened, but will be more visible to
those residents further away from the property. He pointed out
that the tiered design of the retaining wall was required by
Code, and that the developer ought to have to comply with this
requirement. He pointed out that, if the parking is insufficient
to meet the minimum requirements of the Regulations, then the
developer ought to realized that he is possibly trying to crowd
too much onto the site. He urged the Commission to retain the
buffers and separation of the commercial uses from the abutting
property owners, and to deny the application.
Ms. Ruth Bell, representing the League of Women Voters of Pulaski
County, spoke in opposition to the request. She said that
residential neighbors need buffering from commercial uses, and
that the application to reduce the buffers was not good. She
said that the loading docks at the rear of the buildings, and
being so close to the rear property line, would produce an
activity which would be intrusive to the abutting property
owners. She also observed that the revised site plan was
apparently proposing to over build the site, and that this was
good neither for the applicant or the neighborhood.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION,
ITEM NO • 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
Commissioner Daniel asked for clarification on the route of the
sewer tie -on; indicating that Wastewater had said that one
available route would take the service main across abutting
residential properties.
Mr. Rees responded that the sewer tie -on would be to the
available sewer on Bowman Rd.
Commissioner Putnam pointed out that the City of North Little
Rock is currently being sued over approving a 27 to 30 foot high
screening wall to separate a residential development from the
Lakewood Shopping Center property; that the screening wall was
south of a 20 foot landscape buffer; yet, the wall would decrease
the value of the abutting residential properties by approximately
25%. He cautioned the Commission to consider the implications of
this lawsuit in making any changes to the Rees PCD site.
Mr. Rees pointed out that the drive-arounds would be used for
van -type vehicles, not large trucks, and that, because of the
height of the drives in relation to the rear yards of the
abutting residences, and with the privacy fence at the top of the
wall, the abutting residences would not see much if any of the
vans; that, in fact, they would see only the top of the
buildings. He said that any deliveries would be occurring
between 10:00 and 4:00, and that most residents would be at work
during those hours. He said that there would be no loading dock
at the south building. He reiterated that he would control the
types of tenants to whom he would lease space, and would not
permit lessees who would require large numbers of parking spaces.
Chairperson Walker asked for clarification on the requested
waiver from the dedication of additional right-of-way.
Staff pointed out that, when the original PCD was approved,
Public works had failed to note the requirement, and that the PCD
was approved without the additional right-of-way being required.
David Scherer, with the Public Works staff, said that Bowman Rd.
is "built out", but that the additional right-of-way is a
requirement of the Master Street Plan and is needed for
utilities.
Chairperson Walker, noting that in some instances where the
street is built out, the right-of-way is dedicated and the Public
Works Department grants a franchise to the developer for use of
the right-of-way.
Mr. Scherer responded that such an arrangement could probably be
worked out; that the Public works Department Director would
probably be amenable to such a franchise.
9
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5756-B
Chairperson Walker asked for clarification on the location of the
dumpsters.
Mr. Rees responded that the south dumpster would be below grade;
the north dumpster would be substantially higher than the
abutting property; and, that the dumpsters would be enclosed in
an 8 foot high fence; thus, that the dumpsters would not be
visible from the abutting residential area. He said that he did
not want the dumpsters to be located at the front of the
property.
Staff commented that, in the originally approved PCD, the
dumpsters were to be located at the front of the property along
Bowman Rd.
Mr. Boyd reiterated the Association's opposition to the drive-
arounds and rear locations of the dumpsters.
Mr. Rees said that his dumpster service company, BFI, would
service the dumpsters only between the hours of 8:00 and 5:00.
Chairperson Walker summarized the requested action and placed the
item before the Commission for approval. The vote was taken and
the Commission denied the amended PCD with the vote of 0 ayes,
7 nays, 2 absent, 1 abstention (Chachere), and 1 open position.
RIV
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: 4 FILE NO.: Z-6020
NAME: RAMSER -- SHORT -FORM PLANNED DEVELOPMENT -OFFICE
LOCATION: On the east side of Taylor Loop Rd., approximately 0.1
mile south of Cantrell Rd., at 16714 Taylor Loop Rd.
DEVELOPER•
ENGINEER•
Forrest C. Marlar, Jr.
GEORGE M. RAMSER, MA, LPC MARLAR ENGINEERING CO., INC.
2120 Beckenham Cove 5318 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Little Rock, AR 72212 North Little Rock, AR 72216
227-9055 753-19087
AREA: 0.434 ACRE NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0
ZONING: R-2 PROPOSED USES: Professional Office
PLANNING DISTRICT: 19
CENSUS TRACT: 42.06
VARIANCES REQUESTED: None
STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL:
The applicant, a licensed professional counselor, proposes to
remodel the existing house located on the property, and use the
structure for his individual counseling practice. No other use,
nor convertibility to any other use but his own, is requested.
No other improvements or additions to the property are proposed.
He states that the hours of operation are, typically, from 9:00
AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. He sees one patient at a
time, and anticipates that the number of vehicles using the
parking area would be one per hour.
The applicant acknowledges that dedicating the required right-of-
way for Taylor Loop Rd. will put the structure he plans to
remodel and occupy partially within the right-of-way. The
applicant wishes to enter into a contractual agreement with the
City to limit the appraised value of the structure to that of a
residence, in lieu of being appraised as an office use, when and
if the City improves Taylor Loop Rd. and needs to buy the
structure. The applicant states that he may not occupy the
structure for his practice on a long-term basis, and, that quite
possibly, the use will have reverted to residential use by the
time Taylor Loop Rd. is improved.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6020
A. PROPOSAL/REOUEST:
Planning Commission review and Board of Directors approval
is requested for establishment of a Planned Development-
Office.
evelopment-
Office.
Approval is requested for a contractual arrangement which
will permit the applicant to use the building (although the
right-of-way dedication will cause the building to partially
lie within the right-of-way), yet limit the value of the
building to its value as a residential structure in lieu of
a value as an office building, should the City need to
acquire the structure as part of a street improvement
project for Taylor Loop Rd.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The existing development on the lot consists of a 1034
square foot, single -story, frame and stucco, "slab-on-gradell
residence, with a front porch across the front of the house.
The residential structure is located as close as 6.4 feet
behind the existing Taylor Loop Rd. right-of-way line.
There is an asphalt driveway which lies along the north side
of the home.
The site is zoned R-2, as is all surrounding land.
C. ENGINEERING/UTILITY COMMENTS:
Public Works comments:
Dedicate right-of-way for Taylor Loop Rd.; 45° from
centerline is required. Dedication of right-of-way
will take the front portion of the building into the
street right-of-way.
A grading permit and SFHA Development Permit are
required prior to any construction, including
remodeling.
Traffic Engineering recommends denial of the request
due to insufficient information provided.
Stormwater detention and other provisions of the
Ordinance will apply if the project involves building
construction.
Water Works comments that water service in available to the
front tract, but not to the rear tract.
E
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO • 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6020
Wastewater comments that a sewer main extension, with
easements, will be required in order to provide service to
this site.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. did not respond.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal.
The Fire Department approved the submittal without comment.
The Neighborhoods and Planning Site Plan Review Specialist
commented that:
A 6' high opaque screen is required to screen all
business activity from the residential property to the
north and south. This screen may either be wooden
fence with its face directed outward, or be dense
evergreen plantings. One tree (Min. 2" caliper at
planting) and one shrub (Min. 18" in height at
planting) will be required along the north and south
site perimeters. Credit can be given for existing
trees.
The parking lot will be required to be brought into
compliance with the Landscape Ordinance.
D. ISSUES/LEGAL/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Normally, if an existing building either lies in the right-
of-way or, by dedication of additional right-of-way, comes
to encroach into the right-of-way, Public Works can grant a
franchise for the building to remain in the right-of-way
until there is a need for the structure to be removed. This
could be the solution in this case --that the dedication of
the required right-of-way for Taylor Loop Rd. which will
cause a portion of the building (probably the entire front
porch) to be within the right -of -way --except for the fact
that, once the property use is changed to an office use, the
appraised value of the property increases, and, if the City
is required to buy the building as part of the street
improvement project, will have to pay an inflated price due
to this zoning change. The City does not want to be in this
position. Public Works does not want to grant a franchise
for the building, then have to pay for an office building in
lieu of a residence at some time in the future.
Consequently, Public Works and the City Attorney's office
recommend that the planned development be denied.
V
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont ) FILE NO.: Z-6020
E. ANALYSIS•
The applicant wants to remodel a small home for use in his
counseling practice. He wants to retain as much of the
residential character of the property as possible. He does
not anticipate a long-term (10 or 20 year) occupancy of the
building. The problem created by dedicating right-of-way
and, at the same time, rezoning the property for a "higher"
use should be able to be resolved through a contractual
arrangement with the City which will limit the City's
liability when and if the building is purchased as part of
the widening of Taylor Loop Rd. If such an arrangement
cannot be approved, then the City Attorney's office
recommends denial of the Planned Development.
The application is for the benefit exclusively of this
particular applicant and his use; no convertibility is
proposed. The use of the property will revert to
residential use if the applicant ceases to occupy the
property.
The Planning Staff reports that the site is located in the
Chenal District. The adopted Land Use Plan recommends
"Transition Zone". The proposed use is consistent with the
Plan, and the Planned Development is the proper means of
pursuing the rezoning.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the PD -O, subject to the City
Attorney's office being able to approve a contractual
arrangement to limit the City's liability in the event that
the structure, once it is within the right-of-way after the
required dedication, is required to be purchased as part of
a Taylor Loop Rd. widening project, and if Public Works
grants a franchise for the occupancy of the building of its
place on public right-of-way. If these arrangements cannot
be made, then staff recommends denial of the PD -O.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 31, 1995)
Mrs. Dafney Ramser, representing the applicant, was present.
Staff outlined the requested Planned Development to the Committee
members, and the Committee members reviewed the discussion
outline and discussed the issues raised with Mrs. Ramser. Mrs.
Ramser said that she would relate the discussion items to her
husband, and that Mr. Ramser would be in contact with staff
within a few days. The Committee forwarded the request to the
full Commission for the public hearing.
0
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6020
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Mr. George Ramser, the applicant, was present.
Staff outlined the proposal, and explained that, with the
rezoning and the required right-of-way dedication, at least the
front porch of the house would be located within the Taylor Loop
Rd. right-of-way. Staff asked Deputy City Attorney to address
the right-of-way dedication issue.
Mr. Steve Giles, Deputy City Attorney, explained that either the
applicant can ask for a waiver of the right-of-way dedication, or
could dedicate the right-of-way and seek a franchise for use of
the right-of-way until such time that the City widens Taylor Loop
Rd., needs the right-of-way, and revokes the franchise. At that
time, he said, the building would be required to be removed from
the right-of-way. He explained that, if the City has the
dedication deed in hand, even if the rezoning takes place and the
value of the property is increased, the City will not have to
purchase the portion of the building which encroaches into the
right-of-way; the City simply orders the building removed.
Mr. George Ramser, the applicant, addressed the issues. He said
that he would be willing to dedicate the right-of-way and seek a
franchise for use of that portion of the building which will lie
within the right-of-way. He said that his use of the building
would probably be in the 5 to 7 years time frame, and that he
would probably vacate the building prior to the City being in a
position to make improvements to the portion of Taylor Loop Rd.
which would affect his property. He said that, should he
discontinue the use of the building for his counseling business,
he would use it as a residential rental property. He explained
that he wants to retain the residential character of the building
and property.
Mr. Giles asked Mr. Ramser if he understood that, if the City has
need of the right-of-way, a notice would be sent to him and he
would have to make arrangements to vacate, or have a tenant
vacate, the structure. Mr. Ramser acknowledged this.
Mr. John Woodall, identifying himself as living next door to the
subject property, spoke in opposition to the request. He said
that his father had built the subject home in 147; that it is so
old and in need of so many repairs, that it is vacant and un-
livable at this time. He said that the subject house is "right
in the middle of a lot of houses", and that the neighbors would
prefer the house to remain as a residence.
Commissioner Ball asked if, indeed, the property is in a
residential area, if an office use is appropriate.
5
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.)FILE NO.: Z-6020
Staff explained that the adopted Land Use Plan shows the area to
be Transition Zone; that office is appropriate, if a planned
development is the means of achieving the rezoning. Staff
explained that the proposed counseling use is a very low
intensity use, with one patient per hour in and out, and that
there is no land use issue involved.
Ms. Pat Trumpeheller, identifying herself as residing behind Mr.
Woodall, spoke in opposition to the request, saying that she
wanted to retain the use of the area as a residential
neighborhood.
Ms. Mary Woodall, identifying herself as a neighbor, spoke in
opposition to the request. She asked why, if the use is going to
be of such low intensity, a parking lot is needed. She also
contended that the neighbors are maintaining the property.
Chairperson Walker restated the issue and placed the item before
the Commission for approval. The item was approved with the vote
of 7 ayes, 1 nay, 2 absent, 0 abstentions, and 1 open position.
C
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO. 5 FILE NO.: Z -4933-D
NAME: ONE SOURCE HOME CENTER -- AMENDED LONG --FORM PLANNED
COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
LOCATION: At the southeast corner of Chenal Parkway and Kanis
Rd.
DEVELOPER: ENGINEER:
Eugene M. Pfeifer
c/o Olan J. Asbury Joe White
THE HATHAWAY GROUP WHITEWDATERS & ASSOCIATES, INC.
100 Morgan Keegan Dr., Suite 120 401 S. Victory St.
Little Rock, AR 72202 Little Rock, AR 72201
663--5440 374-1666
AREA: 8.85 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 2 FT. NEW STREET: 4
ZONING: PCD PROPOSED USES: Continuation of the hardware
store and Lumber yard uses
previously approved, plus all
permitted and conditional uses
listed in the C-3 zoning
distract regulations.
PLANNING DISTRICT: 18
CENSUS TRACT: 42.06
VARIANCES REQUESTED: None
BACKGRQUND :
The site was zoned PCD on December 26, 1950, by Ordinance No.
15,594. This action established the "Mechanics Lumber Company
Long -Form PCD (Z -4933-B). The Planning Commission recommended
approval of the action at its November 20, 1990 public hearing.
The approved PCD permitted the development of a 17,500 square
foot hardware store, a 32,320 square foot lumber yard facility,
and the creation of two out -parcels which require amendment to
the PCD in order to develop. (No uses or building areas were
established.) Development plans for the out --parcel at the corner
of Chenal Parkway and Kani.s Rd., to the west to the hardware
store -lumber yard facility, was reviewed by the Planning
Commission on November 29, 1994, with Board of Directors approval
of an amended PCD district titled "'Worthen Bank Branch, Chenal
Parkway --Amended Short -Form PGD" (Z --4933--C), following on
December 20, 1994, established by Ordinance No. 16,811.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
I..TFM..NQ..:....... 5..........t.COx�t.. FILE NO.:Z-4933-D
In the action taken by the Planning Commission on November 29,
1994, the Commission recommended denial of a requested waiver of
the requirement to construct a sidewalk along the Kanis Rd.
boundary of the out -parcel. In its action on December 20, 1994,
the Board of Directors approved the waiver in ordinance No.
16,$12.
STATEMENT of PROPOSAL:
The applicant proposes to amend the original PCD to: 1)
eliminate the eastern out -parcel, and combine it with the.
existing Lot 1; and, 2) add 15,000 square feet of retail lease
space to the east end of the existing building, including an
addition to the parking area, new access points from the east,
and construction of a portion of the future eastern boundary
minor arterial street. The applicant specifically requests
approval for the continued use of the property for the hardware
store and lumber yard facility, plus requests approval of all C-3
uses as listed in the permitted and conditional uses in the C-3
zoning district regulations.
The applicant proposes to work with Public works in negotiating
an agreement for sharing the cost of construction for the new
north -south minor arterial street which, is to lie along the east
boundary of the tract; however, waivers of some requirements may
be requested by the applicant when Public Works requirements are
established.
A. PROPOSAL /RFQUEST :
Planning Commission review and Board of Directors approval
of an amended PCD is requested.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is the current location of the Builders Home Center
and Supply facility, plus the vacant out -parcel which lies
to the east of this development. There are some trees on
the undeveloped portion of the site, but, for the most part,
the site is cleared.
The site is zoned PCD. Property immediately to the east is
zoned R-2, but is the location of the Kinco contractors
offices and materials yard. Across Kanis Rd. to the south
and west is all R-2 zoned property. To the north, across
Chenal Parkway, is an R-2 zoned tract to the northeast which
is the location of the Highland Valley United Methodist
Church and, directly to the north, an undeveloped 0-3 tract.
A C-2 tract lies to the northeast across Chenal Parkway.
2
September 19■ 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM ...MO..:....5 (Cont.) „ „ , „ „ _FILL NO.: Z -4933-D
C. EN INEERINGMTILITY COMMENTS:
Public Works comments:
Right-of-way dedication for a right -turn lane on Chenal
Parkway is required.
Construct 36 feet of pavement for the east minor
arterial to a grade that will be consistent with the
preliminary plan for its inter -section with Chenal
Parkway. Contribute in -lieu for the right turn lane
and one-half of the minor arterial costs_ (The minor
arterial on the east side will include right turn lanes
at the north and south ends.) A credit towards the in -
lieu will be allowed for the 35 foot pavement and
grading work.
Contribute $20,000 toward the cost of the intersection
construction. This represents one-half the Chenal
Commercial subdivision commitment, or one-fourth of the
estimated costs.
Improve the Kanis Rd. to collector standards, including
providing a sidewalk, along the Kanis Rd. boundary of
the site.
The north driveway on the future minor arterial is
located too close to the planned intersection, and must
be relocated or eliminated.
Provide the required stormwater detention analysis.
Additional parking may be required.
Water works comments that, in addition to normal connection
charges, an acreage charge of $300 per acre applies.
Additional on-site fire protection may be required. An
existing water line easement across this property is not
shown, and must be added to the plat.
Wastewater comments that sewer service is available.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. did not respond.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal.
The Fire Department noted that additional on-site fire
hydrants may be needed.
3
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM 5 (ContA FILE Z-4 3 -D
The Neighborhoods and Planning Site Plan Review Specialist
comments that the areas set aside for buffers and
landscaping meet ordinance requirements. A portion of the
eastern buffer adjacent to the future minor arterial street
drops below the full requirement of 21 feet, but meets the
ordinance requirements when averaged out.
D. ISSUESILEGALITECHNXCALIDESIGN:
Sec. 36-502 sets the requirements for commercial (retail)
and industrial (storage and lumber yard) uses. For general
retail sales uses, one space is required for each 300 square
feet of gross floor area up to 10,000 square feet; then, for
floor areas of 10,401 to 20,400 square feet, 95% of this
number is required; then, for floor areas of 20,001 to
30,000 square feet, 90% is required; then, for areas of
30,001 to 40,000 square feet, 85% is required. The existing
general retail floor area is 17,500 square feet; the
addition will be 15,000 square feet, or, 32,500 square feet
total. This amount of general retail space will require,
according to the ordinance, 124 spaces. The material
storage and lumber storage totals 34,.080, and requires 22
spaces. The total required, then, should be 145 parking
spaces; 135 is proposed to be provided.
Sec. 31-201 requires that, "whenever a proposed
(development) abuts a partially ... constructed...street, the
developer shall provide the minimum of one-half of the
required improvements and right-of-way. Kanis Rd., along
the south boundary of the tract, does not meet Master Street
Plan standards, and half street improvements and a sidewalk
are required. Improvements to Kanis Rd., however, were not
a requirement of the developer when the original PCD was
approved; they are, however, a requirement for construction
of the bank facility on the west out -parcel.. (The sidewalk
requirement was waived by the Hoard of Directors, contrary
to the Planning Commission recommendation, for the out -
parcel.)
E. ANALYSIS.
The Planning staff reports that the development is in the
Ellis Mountain Planning District. The area is designated on
the adopted Land Use Plan for commercial uses. The
requested C-3 uses, then, are in conformance with the Plan.
The 22 parking spaces allotted to the material storage and
lumber storage uses are based, presumably, on a separate
"free-standing,, storage use not associated with a principal.
use. There may be some room for compromise on this number;
thus, the 136 spaces may be appropriate. The applicant,
however, needs to be the one who addresses this matter and
4
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO. 5 (Cont-,) FILE __ _. Z- --D
requests approval of the number of parking spaces he
proposes to provide.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the amended PCIS.
Staff recommends that all Public works improvements
requirements be required to be provided as part of the
amended PCD.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 31, 1995)
Mr. Gene Pfeifer, the applicant, and Mr. Joe White, with White-
Daters & Associates, were present. Staff outlined to the
Committee members the proposed development. The Committee
reviewed the discussion outline with Mr. Pfeifer and Mr. White.
David Scherer, with the Public Works staff, presented the Public
Works comments, and explained to Mar. Pfeifer the Public Works
rationale for the comments and their implications for his
development. Mr. Pfeifer indicated that he would have to
consider these comments. Mr. White said that the additional
information would be provided, and that required changes would be
discussed with Public works. The Committee forwarded the item to
the full. Commission for the public hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:
(SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Mr. Olan Asbury, representing the developer, was present.
Staff outlined the request involved in the amended PCD.
Mr. Asbury recounted the history of the approval of the original
PCD in 1990, and of the agreements concerning the rights -of --way
and street improvements which were associated with that approval.
He stated the elements of the amendment to the PCD which the
applicant was seeking. He asked for a concession to permit the
northern -most eastern drive onto the future north -south minor
arterial to remain as shown on the plan. He said that, since the
proposed building addition is an extension of the existing
building, and the parking lot is being extended eastward, the
location of the drive approach from the street is established by
the existing construction. He said that, until the north -south
minor arterial is constructed, to delete this drive approach
would cause a real hardship for customer access to the property,
since the only other viable access point is off Chenal. Parkway.
He said that, when the north -south minor arterial is constructed
at some time in the future, the northern -most access point could
become a right -turn out only. The southern --most east access
point., he said, is proposed to be increased to the maximum
5
September 19, 1995
HDIVI I
ITEM NO.; 5_(Cont.)FILE N Z-4 3-D
allowable width, and, upon construction of the north -south minor
arterial, would become the main entry to the commercial center.
Mr. Asbury, speaking of the requested waivers, indicated that the
developer would not commit to making improvements along the Kanis
Rd. frontage of the site, saying that, when the PCD was approved
in 1990, the improvements issues regarding Kanis Rd. were
addressed at that time; that the current PGD issue does not abut
Kanis Rd.; and, that it is inappropriate to raise these
requirements after they had been established and settled
previously.
Mr. Asbury reiterated the agreements with the City regarding
construction of the north -south minor arterial, saying that it is
the developer's commitment to paying one-half the cost of these
improvements, with the stipulation that the developer pay one-
half the cost of the north -south minor arterial as it was aligned
in 1990, not as it the alignment has been changed. He explained
that recently the alignment had been changed to curve to the east
to intersect Kanis Rd., instead of intersecting Kanis Rd. at a
nearly right-angle, and the developer would not be interested in
paying one-half the cost of this expanded project. He said that
the developer would agree to constructing the full width of the
north one-half of the project, according to the original.
alignment.
Mar. Asbury stated that the developer cannot commit to paying for
improvements on Chenal Parkway or for paying for re --construction
of Chenal Parkway or the north -south minor arterial to
accommodate the grade changes which will be necessary for the
extension of the north -south minor arterial across Chenal
Parkway. He said that there is already an agreement, from 1990,
which defines the developers responsibilities for boundary street
improvements costs. He said that the developer is unwilling to
dedicate additional right-of-way along Chenal Parkway for a right
turn lane, saying that it is his understanding that there is
adequate right-of-way width in which the right turn lane can be
built.
Mr. Asbury requested that the Commission approve the amendment to
the PCD to permit the building expansion of the commercial
center; that the allowable uses of the center be C-3 uses: that
the northern -most east drive approach be permitted on a temporary
basis until such time that the north -south minor arterial is
constructed, at which time this drive would become a right -turn
only exit; and, that the southern -most drive onto the north -south
minor arterial be increased in width to the maximum allowable
width for an approach. The committed to working with Public
works to define the waivers and variances which will be sought at
the Board of Directors level.
0
September 19, 1995
gUHDIVISION
ITEM NO,: (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- -D
Commissioner Daniel recalled that there is a Chenal Taskforce
which is studying Chenal Parkway issues, and that this taskforce
will be making recommendations concerning access issues for
Chenal Parkway.
Chairperson walker re -stated the issues of the amended PCD, as
described by Mr. Asbury. He explained that no position was being
taken by the Commission on any waivers and that the report and
conclusions of the Chenal Taskforce should be taken into account
as requests for waivers are developed and as the developer and
Public works come to agreements on the waivers to be pursued on
this application. Chairperson walker asked for approval of the
amended PCD, and the issue was approved with the vote of 8 ayes,
0 nays, 2 absent■ 0 abstentions, and 1 open position.
7
September 19, 1995
ITEM LSO • 5 FILE Z-5908
ASM TEN -MILE HOUSE -- LONG -FORM PLANNED RESIDENTIAL
DEVELOPMENT
LOCATTQN: On the south side of Stagecoach Rd., approximately 0.4
mile west of the David O. Dodd Rd. intersection, at 5915
Stagecoach Rd.
NANCY NEWELL
5915 Stagecoach
Little Rock, AR
455-0500
AR 5 ACRES
ARCHITECT:
WILLIAM WIEDOWER
Rd. 1.212 W. 2nd. St.
72204 Little Rock, AR 72241
375--8252
NUMBER OF_LOT S: 1 FT. NEW _STREET: 4
ZONING: R-2 PROPOgED UaES:Museum tours, historical dinner
theater, retail sales, office, and
residence
PLANNING_ DISTRICT: 16
CENSUS TRACT: 42.08
VARIANCES REOURSTED:
1) Approval of a waiver of the requirement to provide
additional right-of-way along the Stagecoach Rd.
frontage of the site.
2) Approval of a waiver of the requirement to provide an
all --weather surface at interior drives and parking
areas.
STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL:
The applicant proposes to preserve for the public, as a museum
for education, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes, the Ten --
Mile House, one of the oldest structures in Arkansas, and one
which has great historic significance. The hone was built in the
mid -1830'x, and is believed to be the oldest brick house in the
state under private ownership. It has also been known as the
McHenry House and the Stagecoach House. (The house is 10 miles
from downtown Little Rock; the original owner was the McHenry's;
the home was used as a rest stop on the stagecoach route to
Texas.) During the Civil war, the home was used as the
headquarters for the Union Army during their occupation of Little
Rock, and. in 1853, David 0. Dodd was captured by Federal
Marshals on the premises, and was held overnight in the house
September 19, 1995
ITEM N(Cont,)FILE NO.• Z -
before being taken for trial and execution. The present site was
originally part of a 1,400 acre farmstead, which has now been
reduced to encompass 52 acres and which the applicant purchased
in 1583. Since that time, the applicant has undertaken the
restoration of the main house and its associated buildings. She
has done extensive research into the history, legends, and lore
surrounding the Ten -Mile house, its owners, and the general
lifestyles of Arkansas' territorial era and early statehood. The
restoration of the property has been guided by some of the
State's leading preservationists, and is being restored as
authentically as possible; all woodwork is being painted, grained
and/or marbleized according to the tradition of the period.
Appropriate fencing for the period is being constructed. white
picket fencing surrounding the house and hand --split cedar snake
fencing of the premises. An authentic 1830's farmstead is being
created, complete with heritage breeds of small livestock, a
poultry and waterfowl aviary, and a herb garden. The kitchen is
in a completely detached building, and is being restored. The
applicant is meshing the old with the new, and, although the
kitchen has the luxury of modern conveniences, they are concealed
in hand-crafted period cabinets and cupboards. The original bake
oven was found behind a wall in the kitchen, and it has been
restored. The smokehouse and well house are also being restored.
An old log house that was located in Nashville, Arkansas, was
moved to the site, meticulously reassembled, and stands on the
east side of the main house complex.
In order to finance her major restoration effort, the applicant,
since purchasing the house in 1983, has hosted groups to tour the
recreated farmstead and the home which is furnished with
antiques, and has sold antiques from the premises. For the last
couple of years, the applicant has added the amenity for the
groups to enjoy dinners of excellent cuisine amid the aura of
early statehood, while being entertained by actors from the
Arkansas Territorial Restoration who present historical
dramatizations portraying local legends and lore which bring the
spirit of the 1800's alive. Initially, the dinners were catered;
last year, the applicant installed a commercial kitchen, with
State Health Department approval, and now prepares the dinners on
site.
The applicant requests rezoning of 5 acres of the 52 acre
farmstead as a planned development. The main house, the second
floor of which is the applicant's residence, is a museum, and
will be used to host open houses, tours, and dinner theater
events. The detached kitchen building contains the commercial
kitchen, offices, and storage. The well house is used for
storage. The smokehouse and the old log house, which was moved
onto the property, have been converted to shops for the sale of
antiques, small gifts, and period foodstuffs. The barn houses
the animals. There are two driveways off Stagecoach Rd., one to
the house; the other for guest parking beside the barn.
2
September 1.9, 1995
SUBDIVISTQN
ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) ^^, - FILE NO.: Z-5908
Retaining a non-commercial., farmstead aura to the drives and
parking areas is important, and the applicant seeks approval of a
waiver of the requirement to pave these areas. The applicant is
also concerned that dedication of additional right-of-way for
Stagecoach Rd., Highway 5, will detrimentally affect the house
and grounds. It will put the right--of--way line extremely close
to the front door of the house, and will require the removal of
front fencing and the entry gate, if not initially with
dedication, then ultimately when highway improvements are made.
The applicant requests a waiver of the requirement to dedicate
the additional right -of --way.
A. PROPOSAL/RE4UEST:
Planning Commission review and Board of Directors approval
is requested for a planned development for the Ten -Mile
House.
Planning Commission approval of a waiver of the requirement
to provide all-weather driving surfaces for the drives and
parking areas on site is requested.
Board of Directors approval of a waiver of the requirement
to dedicate additional right-of-way for Highway 5 is
requested.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The planned development site is a 5 -acre tract out of a 52
acre farmstead. The site contains the main house, detached
kitchen, smokehouse, well house, barn, log house, and
various accessory buildings. There are landscaped areas and
gardens, and there are animal enclosures and pasture land.
The site is currently zoned R -Z, as is all abutting land.
C. ENGINEERING/UTILITY COMMENTS:
Public works comments that:
The site appears to lie in the 100 -year floodplain.
Topographic and base flood information should be
provided so that the SFHA Development Permit
requirements can be established.
State Highway 5 is a principal arterial. Dedicate
right--of-way to 55` from the centerline. Remove all
items (fences, gates, etc.) which lie within the newly
dedicated right-of-way,
these items to remain in
time that the roadway is
3
or request a franchise for
the right--of-way until such
widened and the land needed.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITM NO 5 [Cont.] FILE NO. Z-5908
Traffic Engineering recommends denial of the
application. The guest drive at the west end of the
site is dangerous due to a "blinds curve from the west.
Construct a concrete apron and pave the driveways and
parking areas. With any future construction, other
Ordinance requirements will be imposed.
Water Works has no comments.
Wastewater comments that a sewer main extension, with
easements, will be required to provide sewer service to the
site.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. did not respond.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal.
The Fire Department approved the submittal without comment.
The Neighborhoods and Planning Site Plan Review Specialist
commented that, based on this site remaining residential in
character, no additional landscaping is suggested at this
time.
D. ISSUES/LEGAL/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Sec. 35-452 states that the purpose, intent, and application
of the PRD is: 1) "To encourage a variety and flexibility
in land development and land use for predominantly
residential. areas...." 2) "To provide a framework within
which an effective relationship of different land uses and
activities within a single development... can be planned on a
total basis." 3) "To provide a harmonious relationship with
the surrounding development, minimizing such influences as
land use incompatibilities, heavy traffic and
congestion,..." 47 To provide a means of developing areas
with special physical features to enhance natural beauty and
other attributes." Permitted uses include: all residential
uses; parks, recreation facilities, and open space; public
and institutional uses; and incidental commercial and office
uses.
sec. 31-241 states that, "whenever a proposed (development)
abuts a partially dedicated or constructed public street,
the developer shall provide the minimum of one-half of the
required improvements and right-of-way." Public Works, in
this case, has commented that the right--of-way dedication is
required; any road improvement would be part of a State
Highway Department project.
4
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISIO
ITEM No.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO,.- _Z -5M
The Ordinances require that all interior drives and parking
areas be paved; that all-weather driving surfaces be
provided, and that curb -and --gutter, or other approved means,
be used to separate the driving/parking areas from
landscaped areas.
E. AN
The predominant aura of the planned development is
residential in nature. The home is not only the applicant's
residence, but the home and grounds are a recreation of a
farmstead in a historical setting. The sale of antiques,
gifts, period foodstuffs, etc. are in keeping with the
character of the predominant residential use, and are
accessory in nature. The office use, as well, is an
incidental use. Because the applicant is seeking to restore
and preserve the 1834's farmstead heritage; because the home
and grounds are a "living" museum; and, because the
restoration project has become an inclusive project
involving both private and public institutions and
individuals, the provisions of the PRD which includes
"public and institutional" uses seems to apply. Staff
feels, then., that the planned development can legitimately
be classified as a PRD.
The Planning staff comments that the site is in the 55th.
Street Test Planning District. The adopted Land Use Plan
recommends "Single -Family" uses. The site is an important
State Historic site, and staff understands that it will
become a public site in the future. The current proposal
will not change the appearance of the site or significantly
change the character of the site. Further, the use appears
to be similar in impact on the neighborhood to a bed and
breakfast. staff believes this to be a temporary use which
will not change the nature of the site.
According to Public Works, the right--of--way must be
dedicated as part of the re -zoning process. If it is not
dedicated at this time, then, when the State begins its
widening project, the City will, be required to purchase the
needed right-of-way. If the right -of --way is shifted north,
so that the Ten --Mile House property is left in tact, then,
again, the City will, be responsible for the needed purchase.
The need to preserve the historic setting versus the need to
acquire the right-of-way for the future Highway 5 project
should to be weighed. The policy-making bodies must make
this call.
in other situations where rural settings were involved, and
the wish to retain the rural residential aura was desirable,
Public works and Neighborhoods and Planning supported a
5
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISIOK
compromise of the requirement to pave the drives and parking
areas: the required concrete apron and paved drive on the
public right-of-way was retained; the drive pavement was
extended sufficient distance onto the site so that gravel
and mud would not be tracked onto the public street; and
landscape timbers or edging was installed along the drives
and parking areas to both protect the border landscaping and
to retain the drive/parking area material.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the PRD, subject to either
Hoard of Directors approval of the requested waiver of
right-of-way and Planing Commission approval of the
requested waiver of improvements to the drives and parking
areas, or the applicant conforming to the ordinance
requirements.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 31, 1995)
Ms. Amy Dickson, a representative of the applicant was present.
Staff outlined the nature and scope of the requested planned
development. Staff reviewed with the Committee members and Ms.
Dickson the comments contained in the discussion outline. Public
Works comments concerning the requirements for dedication of
right-of-way and paving of drives and parking areas were
discussed. David Scherer, with the Public Works staff, indicated
that the survey which had been presented was inadequate; it did
not show the distance from the Highway 5 centerline to the
existing property line, nor did it show the western --most drive
access and the guest parking areas beside the barn. Ms. Dickson
indicated that she would discuss the comments with the applicant,
and would contact the surveyor to provided the additional
information. The Committee forwarded the item to the full
Commission for the public hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Ms. Aimee Dickson, representing the applicant, was present.
Staff outlined the requested planned development, and reviewed
with the Commission the rationale for designation of the
development as a PRD, as indicated in the staff report. Staff
reviewed with the Commission the requested waivers for boundary
street right--of-way dedication and for on-site driveway and
parking lot paving. Staff indicated that the applicant would
need to amend her site plan and survey to include the increased
area of the site to accommodate the relocated western --most
driveway and parking lot, and to show all parking lots and
internal. drives. The applicant would, staff said, need to show
2
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
TEM NO.: & (Cont.) FILE No.: Z_
the drive approaches onto Stagecoach Rd. and the paved area of
the drives, as required by Public works.
Ms. Dickson reviewed with the Commission the nature of the
proposal, outlining the types of activities which are carried on
at the site.. She reviewed the historic nature of the property,
and recited the types of preservation efforts which are being
accomplished. she told of the applicants involvement in the
property, and recounted the history of her business use of the
property. She explained that the alignment of Highway
5/Stagecoach Rd. needs to be moved northward, and not allowed to
encroach onto the Ten -Mile House property.
Mr. David Scherer, of the Public works staff, explained that the
boundary street provisions of the Master Street Plan require
dedication of right-of-way from the existing centerline of
Stagecoach Rd., and that if the dedication is not taken with the
proposed rezoning, then the City will have to purchase the
required right-of-way whenever the State widens the highway. He
verified that the State Highway Department had not established an
alignment for Highway 5, and there are no current plans for the
widening of Highway 5.
Deputy City Attorney Steve Giles explained that, prior to the
State Highway Department establishing an alignment, public
hearing are held and environmental impact studies are conducted.
At that time, the historic significance of the Ten -Mile House can
be.established, and the State can align, the highway accordingly.
He recommended that the Commission recognize the historical
significance of the Ten -Mile House and recommend to the Hoard
that the requested wavier of right-of-way be approved.
Chairperson walker placed the item before the Commission for
approval, and the PRI], with a recommendation of approval of the
waiver of right-of-way, was approved with the vote of 8 ayes,
0 nays, 2 absent, 4 abstentions, and 1 open position.
7
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO. 7 FILE NO,: Z -5887 -
NAME:
_S$87 -
NAME: EMBASSY SUITES --- AMENDED LONG -FORM PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT -COMMERCIAL
LOCATION: On the south side of Financial Center Parkway,
approximately 0.4 mile west of Shackleford Rd.
ENGINEER:
Joe White
JOHN Q. HAMMONS WHITE-DATERS & ASSOCIATES, INC.
300 Hammons Parkway, Suite 900 401 S. Victory St.
Springfield, MO 55846 Little Rock, AR 72201
(417) 864-4300 374--1565
AREA: 6.38 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 586
.ZONING: PD -C & R-2
PLANNING DISTRICT: 11
CENSUS TRACT: 24.04
VARIANCES REQUESTED:
BACKGROUND:
PROPOSED USES:
None
Hotel & Convention
Center; Restaurant
On October 18, 1994, the Planning Commission conducted a public
hearing on a request to establish the Embassy Suites Short --Form
PD -C on a 4.07 acre tract of land. By Ordinance. No. 16,842,
passed on February 7, 1995, the Board of Directors approved the
PD --C, Subject to the developer dedicating additional right-of-way
for Financial Center Parkway. Construction of the new west
boundary collector street was included in the approved PD.
STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL:
The applicant proposes to amend the previously approved planned
development to add a 2.31 acre tract to the site. This
additional tact is located at the southeast quadrant of the
previously approved site, and will be used for surface parking.
The approved PD anticipated providing parking for 298 vehicles in
a two-level, below --grade, parking facility which would extend
beneath the hotel tower and convention center buildings, plus
providing 128 surface -level parking spaces, for a total of 425
spaces. The revised PD proposes to eliminate the below -grade
parking facility beneath the hotel tower, and to provide 128
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVIBTUN
ITEM 7(Cont.)FILE NO.: Z -587-A
spaces below -grade beneath the convention center, plus a total of
301 surface spaces, or a total of 429 parking spaces. The
amended PD also reorients the building from its front/north-
facing entrance and porte cochere to a west -facing entrance.
A. PROPOSALIREOUEST:
Planning Commission review and Board of Directors approval
of a an amended PD -C is requested.
B. EXISTING CQNDITIONSt
The site is undeveloped and wooded and overgrown. The
topography slopes fairly evenly from a high point at a knoll
just southwest of the northeast corner of the tract the
south, southeast, and southwest. The knoll is at an
elevation of approximately 494 feet MSL: the southwest
corner of the tract is at approximately 445 feet MSL; the
southeast corner of the tract is at approximately 428 feet
MSL.
The site is currently zoned PD and R-2. Across the new
collector street to the west is the Pinnacle Point Hospital
on a C-3 zoned tract. To the south is a large R-2 tract.
To the East is 0-3 zoned land.
C. ENGINEERINGIUTILITYCCSMM_EU :
Public Works comments the revised plan does not appear to
conflict with the original site plan as far as the interface
with the new 35 foot collector street and Chenal Parkway are
concerned. Traffic Engineering has approved the parking lot
layout.
Water works comments that a front footage fee of $12.00 per
foot (E.5518,1989) applies, and that this fee is in addition
to normal connection fees. A main extension will be
required to tie into an existing 81, main approximately 104
feet east of this property on the south side of Financial
Center Parkway.
Wastewater comments that a capacity analysis will be
required prior to wastewater Utility approval.. If capacity
is not available, the developer will be required to upgrade
the existing system to handle any extra flow generated.
Capacity contribution fees and Farm Bureau Fees will be
assessed for this project.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. did not respond.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
2
September 19, 1995
SQHDIVISI
I Coxa FILE Z- 7 -A
Southwestern Sell Telephone Co. did not respond.
The Fire Department comments that some minor changes need to
be made in the fire hydrant spacing. The pumper hydrant
located on the northeast corner in conjunction with where
the fire service water line enters the building is O.K. The
500' spacing should begin from that hydrant on around the
building with 5001 or less spacing on the other 2 hydrants.
There are enough hydrants to meet Code; they simply need to
be relocated slightly.
The Neighborhoods and Planning Site Plan Review Specialist
commented that the areas set aside for buffers and
landscaping meet ordinance requirements.
D. 15SUESILEGAL/TECHN CAb/DESIGN:
The previous approval approved the same uses with a total of
426 parking spaces. This was approved with the assurance of
the developer that this was sufficient parking. The amended
application, though, has supplied the needed parking
analysis. This analysis shows that■ to meet the City's
parking ordinance requirements, for all the various uses to
be going on simultaneously, 601 spaces are required. The
analysis shows, however, that, based on the time of day, and
when, during the day the various uses will be taking place,
the 429 spaces provided with this application will be
sufficient.
All agreements associated with the originally approved PD
have been reaffirmed; e.g., that the additional right-of-way
for Financial Center Parkway is being dedicated, and that
the full width of the west boundary collector street will be
constructed as part of this project.
E. ANALY 2
The Planning staff comments that the site is located in the
1-430 Planning District. The adopted Land Use Plan
recommends "Mixed office Commercial" uses. The use is
consistent with the adopted Plan.
The developer has furnished a parking analysis which
justifies. to their satisfaction the adequacy of the number
of parking spaces provided. The Planning Commission may
either concur with this conclusion, or may require more for
fewer) spaces.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the amended PD -C.
3
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: 7 (Cont. l FILE NO.: Z -5$87_-A
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE _COMMENT: (AUGUST 31■ 1995)
Mr. Joe White, with White-Daters & Associates, was present.
Staff explained that an amended planned development was being
sought in order to add a 4 acre tract to the previously approved
PD in order to accommodate needed surface parking for the hotel
and convention center. Staff explained that, initially, the
developer had anticipated extending the below -grade parking deck
not only under the convention center, but under the hotel area as
well, but that this was not going to be possible; that structural
requirements of the 9 -story hotel would preclude having workable
maneuvering and parking areas under the hotel; consequently, the
lost below -grade parking would have to be made up for in surface
parking. Mr. white reported that his, as well as the developer's
staff, were in consultation with Hill Henry, the Traffic
Engineer, and that all concerns of Traffic Engineering would be
addressed. Staff reported that, other than Mr. White and the
developer getting finished drawings in to staff, there were no
major issues to be resolved. The Committee forwarded the planned
development to the full Commission for the public hearing.
PLANNING CQMISSION ACTION:
Staff reported that the developer and
communication with Public Works, and
resolved. Staff recommended approval
item was approved with the vote of 8
4 abstentions, and 1 open position.
4
(SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
his engineer had been in
that all issues had been
of the amended PD, and the
ayes, D nays, 2 absent,
September 19, 1995
ITEM -NO.; 8� FILE NO.; Z - 6 0 31-A
NAME: Portoni - Conditional Use Permit
LOCATI[3N: 6701 Shaner Circle
OWNERIAPPLICANT: Martha Portoni
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is
requested to allow for the addition
of a wholesale plant nursery and
greenhouse business to this 1.5±
acre site. The property currently
is zoned R-2 however. an AF
rezoning application is Item No. 17
on this agenda (Z-6031).
ORDINANCE DESIGN STANPAR_D$:
1. Site L ation•
The property is located outside of the city limits but
within the City's planning and zoning jurisdiction. Shaner
Circle extends north of Raines Road which is west of Crystal
Talley Road.
2. Compatibility with Neighborhood:
The surrounding area is rural in nature. The small
subdivision fronting on Shaner Circle consists of an
eclectic mixture of single family homes ranging from single -
wide mobile homes to double -wide manufactured homes and
large brick houses. Each homesite appears to exceed one
acre. The subject site currently contains a one story,
frame residential structure and will continue to be the
applicant's home. The addition of two greenhouse structures
for the raising of bedding plants will be the only
improvement to accommodate the proposed business. This
small nursery business, with no outside storage or display
of materials and merchandise appears to be compatible: with
the neighborhood.
3. On -Sate Drives and Parkinu:
The applicant originally proposed to construct a paved
parking lot to accommodate a second phase which involved
retail sales from the site. She has since eliminated retail
sales from the request and will not build the parking lot.
The applicant proposes to use only the existing driveway
which currently accesses the site. The applicant will be
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: (Cont.)FILE NO.: K -6031 -
making deliveries, thereby eliminating the need for shipping
and delivery vehicles.
4. Screening and Buffers:
The landscaping and screening requirements were tied to the
proposed new parking lot which has been dropped from the
plan. No additional screening or landscaping is required
for the two proposed greenhouse structures.
5. City Engineer's Comments:
Traffic recommends denial due to the impact on the 12 foot,
chipseal residential street that provides access.
Any expansion beyond the addition of the two greenhouse
structures will generate concerns regarding street and
drainage improvements. Pave the driveway approximately 50
feet or so from the street to keep gravel from being tracked
onto the street.
6. Utility Comments:
No comments
7. Staff Analysis:
The applicant is requesting a conditional use permit to
allow for the addition of a plant nursery business to this
site. The property is currently zoned R-2 however, an AF
rezoning application is Item No. 17 on this agenda. The
conditional use permit is contingent upon the property being
rezoned AF.
The applicant originally submitted a two --phase plan in which
phase I was strictly wholesale and phase II added retail
sales and a paved parking lot. Phase II has .since been
dropped from the request. The applicant is requesting
approval only for a small, wholesale plant nursery utilizing
two greenhouse structures which are proposed to be
constructed behind the applicant's home. Bedding plants
will, be raised in the greenhouses until they are large
enough to be sold to retail dealers. No outside display or
storage of materials or merchandise is proposed other than a
small area for storage of soil and compost materials.
The applicant's property contains a large number of trees
and shrubs. The proposed greenhouse structures are located
well away from all property lines.
2
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISIO
ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -6031-A
Staff believes the addition of this small nursery business
to this site is a reasonable use and is supportive of the
request.
8. Staff Recommendat-
Staff recommends approval of the application for a wholesale
only plant nursery subject to compliance with the City
Engineer's Comment to pave the driveway to a point
approximately 50 feet from the street.
SUBDIVTSIQN COMMITTEE CG NT: (AUGUST 31■ 1995)
The applicant, Martha Portoni, was present. Staff presented the
item and noted the City Engineer Comments outlined above.
Ms. Portoni explained that the proposed business was the
propagation of perennials and herbs from seeds and cuttings in
the greenhouses until they are large enough for sale in small
bedding size containers. She confirmed that she was requesting
approval for the wholesale nursery only and that there would be
no retail sales from the site. Ms. Portoni stated that the
parking lot would not be constructed since it was tied to
possible retail sales on the site.
A discussion then followed concerning Shaner Circle itself.
David Scherer, of the City Engineer's office, stated that any
expansion beyond the addition of the two greenhouse structures
would generate concerns regarding street and drainage issues.
The Committee determined that there were no other issues and
forwarded the item to the full Commission.
PLANNING COMMISSION_ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1595)
This item and Item No. 17 (Z-6431) were discussed concurrently.
The applicant, Martha Portoni, was present. There were two
objectors present. Two letters of opposition had been presented
to Commission members. Staff presented both item No. 8
(Conditional Use Permit, Z -6031--A) and Item No. 17 (AF rezoning,
Z-5031) together with a recommendation of approval in both cases.
Martha Portoni addressed the Commission and briefly described the
material to be used in the construction of the greenhouses.
In response to a question from Chairman Walker, Mrs. Portoni
stated that the business would employ herself, her husband and
one other person.
3
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISIQ
ITEM ND • 8 [Cont..] FILE Mg.: Z-6931-
waiter
W 1 -
Walter Clements, of 6310 Shaner Circle■ addressed the Commission
in opposition to the items. He stated that he was concerned
about commercial development in the area.
During a discussion of deliveries to and from the site,
Mrs. Portoni stated that there would be no delivery trucks and
that she would be making any deliveries herself.
Sandy McCowen. of 6414 Shaner Circle, addressed the Commission in
opposition to the items. She stated that the Portonis are
bringing in bags of leafs at night• Ms. McCowen also stated that
there was an old mobile home on the property, behind the
Portonis' house.
Mrs. Portoni responded that the business was not much above the
level of a hobby. She stated that the business would be quiet
and that there would be no more than one vehicle at a time coming
and going from the property. Mrs. Portoni stated that she would
remove the mobile home from the property.
A motion was made to approve the AF rezoning. The motion was
approved by a vote of 7 ayes, 1 noe, 2 absent and 1 open
position.
Commissioner Chachere asked about access to the site from the
rear. Dana Carney, of the Planning Staff, responded that the
Commission could restrict access from the rear if it chose to but
that staff saw no reason to do so.
Mr. Clements and Ms. McCowen asked about possible runoff of
water and chemicals from the site. Mr. Carney pointed out that
the use was totally enclosed and that there would be no outside
storage or display of plants. He noted that the City's
stormwater detention ordinance was not applicable in this case.
A motion was made to approve the conditional use permit subject
to removal of the mobile home from the property and compliance
with the City Engineer's Comment to pave the driveway to a point
approximately 50 feet from the street. The motion was approved
by a vote of 7 ayes, 1 noe, 2 absent and 1 open position.
4
September 19, 1995
ITEM N 9 FILE No.-, Z-6034
NAME:
LOCATION:
OWNER/APPLICANT;
PROPOSAL:
ORDINANCE DESIGH STANDARD :
1. Site Location:
Professional Educators School -
Conditional Use Permit
8405 Stanton Road
The Salvation Army
The establishment of a private.
non --profit, Christian school
This property is approximately equidistant between I-30 on
the North and Baseline Road on the south. Stanton Road is
an unimproved two lane roadway serving mostly residential
use.
2. Compatibility with Neighborhood:
The proposed use will occupy a building constructed by
others prior to annexation. The building was constructed as
a four bay commercial building. The adjacent use on all
four sides is single family with most being mobile homes.
This being the case there should be no adverse affect on
living environment.
3. On -Site Drives_ andParkinq:
The site has a paved parking lot that should serve the use
for good drive through and drop-off as well as employee
parking. A gravel drive serves the rear yard but may not be
used, if used, it must be paved.
4. Screening gn Buffers:
An upgrade in landscaping around the perimeter of this site
should be provided where feasible. This landscape
enhancement should include trees and shrubs and screening.
A six foot high opaque screen, either a wood fence with its
face directed outward or dense ever green plantings, is
required to screen this site from the adjacent residential
properties to the north, south and west.
5. City Engineer's Comments:
Convert existing driveways to one-way flow or reduce the
number of drives to one. A minimum width of 27 feet at the
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.; 9 (Cox -it, ) -__ FILE NO.: 2-6034
time reconstruction is planned for Stanton Road. The 8 foot
gravel drive should be paved.
Stanton Road is a Local Street project funded by bond funds.
Planned reconstruction will alter drives and improve
frontage and sidewalk. Any planned building construction
will require a contribution to the In --Lieu fund for this
street. Dedicate Row for Stanton Road, 25 feet from
centerline. This street is a collector on the Master Street
Plan requirements for this road. Recommendation: Stanton
Road between Baseline and 1-30 be designated as an urban
collector with reduced right-of-way of 50 feet and a
pavement width of 27 feet except at each end where the major
intersections occur (then the read will transition to
collector standard).
6. utility
No issues - all available
7 . Staff _Analysis:
The subject site is well-suited for conversion to an
educational activity. It is served by good access to the
arterial street system. There is adequate outdoor area for
playground or other activity as well adequate parking for
the six employees staffing the facility. The limitation of
ninety children seems somewhat high. However, the
arrangement of the classrooms has some flexibility and will
probably accommodate the number. we would limit these
staffing and student numbers as proposed unless the school
can acquire more land.
The perimeter of the play area adjacent to the rear property
line should be screened for sound as much as possible since
residences are near this line. Also, some thought should be
given to a possible safety issue along the south boundary of
the parking lot. There is a potential for a fall or vehicle
damage problem due to an abrupt grade change.
8. Staff Re-c-ommendation:
Approval of the conditional use permit subject to:
1. Limit the use to that proposed by the school, in number
and operation.
2. Conform to landscape and Public Works concerns.
3. Dedicate 25 feet of right-of-way for Stanton Road.
(from centerline)
2
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVI91
ITEM NO.: 9 (Cant.) FILE NO,_;_ Z-6034.
4. Dealing with Traffic Engineer's Comment on controlled
in and out drives or go to rine driveway.
PLANNING COMMISSION_ ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19■ 1995)
The Staff presented its recommendation which was approval of the
application with the modifications noted in the staff write-up.
A brief discussion followed during which the Planning Commission
determined that it was appropriate to place this item on the
Consent Agenda for approval. A motion to that effect was made.
The motion passed by a vote of S ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent and
I open position.
3
September 19■ 1995
ITEM NO.; 10 FILE Z-4 25-A.
NAME: Calvary Apostolic, -
❑.P.C.IConditional Use Permit
LOCATI9406 Block Stagecoach Road eastside
of street
QWNER/APPLICANT: Calvary Apostolic., Q.P.C. for the
Terry Trust
PROPOSAL: To construct a new church facility
with provision for future day care
center for 50 children.
ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS:
1. Site Location:
The site is approximately one-quarter mile south of Baseline
Road in an area that is involved in floodplainlfloodway.
The site is undisturbed with trees and natural growth
obscuring the building site.
2. Comnatibility_with Neighborhood:
This is an area that has seen little change in recent years.
The only change of note is that at Baseline and Stagecoach
where there are several new commercial buildings.
There are some residential uses across the street, but,
these are on large lot rural type development. This church
use should be of little effect on environment or traffic.
3. On -Site Drives and Parking:
The site pian presented will work for this use with minor
adjustments to meet Landscape and Traffic Engineers
requirements.
4, Screening and Buffers:
Areas set aside for street and land use buffers meet and
exceed ordinance requirements.
Any adjacent residential areas to the north, south and east
not screened year round by existing vegetation will require
additional screening. This additional screening can either
be evergreen plantings or a six foot high opaque wood fence
with its face directed outward.
September 19, 1995
ITEM No.: 10 [Cont.] FILE NO. Z -4325 -
The Landscape Ordinance requires six percent or 737 square
feet of the interior of the proposed parking lot be
landscaped. interior islands must be of at least 144 square
feet. Two trees are required within the interior
landscaping of the parking lot.
Curb and gutter or another approved border is required to
protect landscaped areas from vehicular traffic.
5. City Enaineer's Cgmmgntg:
The site appear to lie in the 100 year floodplain. The
floodplain should be shown in order to determine if a SFHA
Development Permit is applicable for this work. A grading
permit is required prior to any work.
Stagecoach is a minor arterial with 50 foot pavement with
sidewalk. Dedicate 45 feet of right-of-way from centerline.
AHTD permit will be required. The City Engineer will
approve a 2 year deferral of 100% In -Lieu amount determined
by a professional engineer for street improvements.
Stormwater detention analysis is required. Driveway apron
should be concrete and be 90 degrees with respect to
Stagecoach. A minimum 27 foot driveway is required.
5. Utility Comments:
water: A water main is under construction that can serve
this property. A pro rata front footage charge of $15 per
front foot will apply to connection in addition to the
normal connection fee.
Sewer: Sewer main required with easements.
7. Staff Analysis:
The subject site is well-suited for use as proposed given
the large floodplain involvement paralleling Stagecoach
Road. The Highway Department plans for widening this road
are developing. The plan for a principal arterial road
removes any question of traffic circulation or access.
Given the size of the tract (3 ac.) there is room for some
future growth of church buildings and. activity. Without
specific pians included here the church may have to return
to the planning commission for future expansion. Staff
accepts the day care as a future use with an understanding
that specific plans will be required for our approval prior
to obtaining any building or site permits. A 10 percent
structural expansion limitation is imposed by ordinance
absent returning to the Commission. Staff has determined
2
September 19, 1995
S BDIVI IO
ITEM NO.10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -4325 -
that the three acres is a purchase out of a larger site.
This requires that a platting of the church site and the
balance of the original property be accomplished. This
could be handled at staff level after approval of the
conditional use permit and direction by the Commission.
This plat and the requirement for street improvements must
be reviewed by the Board of Directors since the applicant
desires a waiver of Stagecoach Road improvements.
8. Staff Recommendation:
Approval as filed subject to staff comments above.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTI,QN: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
The Staff presented its recommendation which was approval of the
conditional use permit as filed. The recommendation carried with
it the several items pointed out in the staff write-up.
A brief discussion followed during which the Planning Commission
determined that it was appropriate to place this item on the
Consent Agenda for approval. A motion to that effect was made.
The motion passed by a vote of 8 ayes. 0 nays, a absent and
1 open position.
3
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO. 1.1 FILE NCS.: Z-6-0-26
NPM_: Givens - Conditional ❑se Permit
LOCATION: #15 Hickory Hills Circle
OWNER/,PPLICANT: John G. and Patricia Givens
PROPOSAL: To construct an accessory dwelling
in the side yard area to serve as a
guest house (accessory dwelling
provision in R-2),
ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS:
1. Site Location:
The building site is immediately inside the subdivision
along the south side of Hickory Hills Circle. It is a large
boundary lot in this plat with significant grade rising
above the street.
2. Compatibility with Neighborhood:
There is no issue here since the request is single family
accessory activity. The property owners architectural
committee have approved the plan.
3, On --Site Drives and Parkin :
There is sufficient existing to serve the Ordinance
requirement.
4. Screening and Buffers:
No issues
5. City Engineer's Comments:
No issues
5. utility Comments
No issues - available
7. Staff Analysis:
This request is simple. There are no issues that have been
presented by reviewing persons or agencies. The only issue
unresolved is a written request from the owner for separate
utility metering of this residence.
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVTSION
ITEM NO.; _ 11 (Cont.) FILE ,NO. Z-6425
8. Btaff Recommgndation:
Approval as filed.
PLAIMING COMMISSION ACTIO : (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995 )
The Staff presented its recommendation of approval of the
conditional use permit as filed.
A brief discussion followed during which the Planning Commission
determined that it was appropriate to place this item on the
Consent Agenda for approval. A motion to that effect was made.
The motion passed by a vote of 8 ayes, 4 nays, 2 absent and
1 open position.
2
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: 12 FILE NO_._: 7-6032
NAME: Seventh Day Adventist - Conditional
Use Permit
LOCATION:
8708 Rodney
Parham Road
n ER APPLI ANT:
The Seventh
Day
Adventist Church
PROPOOAL:
To Locate two classroom buildings
adjacent to
the
existing school.
Each 25 feet
by
55 feet with a
maximum student
occupancy of 44
total.
ORDINANCE DEb9IGN STANDARDS:
1. Site Location:
The land area for the proposed classroom buildings is well
removed from land uses that might normally be affected. The
larger school and church site have an excellent location
being on an arterial street, adjacent to a large drainageway
and being a large site.
2. Compatibility with Neighborhood:
The use expansion and building involved shouldn't affect the
environment of this area. The nearest single family use
lies across Rodney Parham Road and is about 304 feet from
the proposed classrooms. The uses to the west are a similar
distance across grassy flat creek. They are apartments and
offices. The primary church buildings lie to the east.
3. Qn-Site Drives and Parking:
The site is well served at this time. by a series of paved
driveways and parking lots. Therefore, no new paving is
proposed.
4. Screening and Buffers:
Though not required by ordinance, landscape plantings around
the southern and western sides of the structures could
provide a visual softening effect.
5. City Enrrineer' s Commgn_U :
The site appears to lie in the 100 year floodplain. The
floodplain should be shown in order to determine if a SFHA
September 19, 1995
B IVI IO
ITEM O.: 12 (Cont.) _ FILE NO.; _ x`6032
Development Permit is applicable for this work. A grading
permit is required prior to any work.
Dedicate ROW for Rodney Parham and Van Lee. Rodney Parham
is a minor arterial with 45 feet of Row required from
centerline. van Lee is a Collector and 30 feet of right-of-
way is required from centerline. Stormwater detention
analysis is required. Improve sidewalk on Rodney Parham to
eliminate tripping areas and install HC Ramp at the Serenity
Drive intersection.
6. utility Commences:
Water: No issues
Wastewater: The Utility has an existing 301, Outfall
located on this property in the vicinity of the proposed
portable.buildings. No portable building may be placed over
the existing Outfall. Contact Little Rock wastewater
Utility for details.
7. Staff Analy
There are few concerns with this proposal in as much as it
is expansion of a current use. There are several items we
would encourage the applicant to follow through on. These
are:
1. Contact should be made with Building Codes to determine
structural compliance with building code.
2. Review siting plan to determine ADA compliance for
access.
3. Indicate on the plan, the fence location, now and after
construction.
4. Indicate on the plan, the private drive along the west
line and dimension..
5. Place all of the above notes on an up-to-date survey
and plot plan prior to filing for a building permit.
81 Otaff Re mm nda i n•
Approved subject to staff comment above.
2
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FIVE NO.: Z-6032
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
The Planning Staff presented its recommendation of approval of
the conditional use permit as filed subject to the points raised
in the staff write-up.
The applicant indicates that these design issues can be resolved.
Staff pointed out that there was one letter of objection received
from an adjacent resident lying to the east of the church
properties. several 100 feet from the proposed building location.
A brief discussion followed during which the Planning Commission
determined that it was appropriate to place this item on the
Consent Agenda for approval. A motion to that effect was made.
The motion passed by a vote of 8 ayes. 0 nays. 2 absent and
1 open position.
3
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO.: 13 FILE NO,: Z--6033
LOCATION:
Hundley - Conditional use Permit
7501 Pinnacle valley Road
APPLI T: .john Hundley
PROPOSAL: To build a one story. 1..540 square
foot guesthouse behind the current
residence. (Accessory dwelling
provision in R-2)
ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS:
1. Site Location:
This tract of land lies on the south side of Pinnacle Valley
Road about one-quarter mile west of the County Farm Road
intersection. It lies within a floodplain of Little
Maumelle River which runs west to east behind the property.
2. Compatibility with Neighborhood:
This is a rural setting with this owner's property on all
sides for some distance. There will be no adverse effect.
3. pn-Site__ Drives and Parking:
This residence will utilize the current primary drive with a
short new segment to provide a garage entry.
4. Screenina and Buffers:
No issues
5. City Engineer's Comments:
The site appears to lie in the 1.00 year floodplain and
regulatory floodway of Little Maumelle River. The
floodplain and floodway with base flood elevations should be
shown in order to issue a SFHA Development Permit. A
grading permit is required prior to any work. The County
Floodplain Administrator will assist in these requirements.
Drive should be 18' to accommodate emergency vehicle access.
6. Utility Comments:
No issues
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO. 13 (Cont.)...._, FILE Z-6033
7. gtaff Anal i
This property is outside the city limits but within the
extraterritorial jurisdiction. The zoning in the area is
principally R-2 which requires this conditional use permit.
There are none of the usual issues due to very large use
separations. The tract has several large buildings now with
good landscaping and timber on the lot. The house proposed
will hardly be noticed by passersby.
There are a couple of cleanup items for the applicant:
1. Provide a written request for separate utility meters
if separation is desired.
2. County Planning and development requires a floodplain
permit review before construction begins. No building
permit from Little Rock is needed.
3. Dimension the new structure on the plan.
$. Staff Recommendation:
Approval subject to provision of information noted.
PLANNING C01WISSION_AgTI: (SEPTEMBER 19■ 1995)
The. Planning Staff presented its recommendation of approval of
this conditional use permit. Staff reported that there were no
issues on this matter.
A brief discussion followed during which the Planning Commission
determined that it was appropriate to place this item on the
Consent Agenda for approval. A motion to that effect was made.
The motion was passed by a vote of 8 ayes, D nays, 2 absent and
1 open position.
2
September 19, 1555
ITEM No.: 14 FILE N:-.:_-- Z-6036
NAME: Promised Land - Conditional Use
Permit
LOCATION: North end of Gooch Lane. about 0.15
mile north of Taylor Loop Road
QWNE UAPPLICANT: Gary Drawbaugh
PROPOSAL: To construct a second dwelling on
the land and provide an accessory
dwelling, permitted in R-2.
ORDINANCE _DE51GN STANiiAR:
1. Sate Location:
This tract of land is isolated at the north end of a
substandard residential street. Property to the north
fronts on Cantrell Road (Hwy. 14). The neighborhood is
sparsely developed.
2. Compatibility with Neicxhborhoyd:
The site is large enough for two lots and was proposed as a
plat at the August 8 Planning Commission meeting. The
placing of the second residence will have no effect on the
adjacent uses.
3. on --Site Drives and Parking:
No issues
4. Scregninct and Buffers:
No issues
5. City Enaineer's Comments:
No issues
6. Tit i 1 i tv Comments-:
No issues, except that contact should be made with
wastewater to determine sewer access.
7. Staff --Analysis:
This request is a conversion of a preliminary plat filed
last month. The owners residence, existing, and significant
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM N 1(Cont.)LE Z-6036
street improvements were cause for a different approach.
Mr. Gooch;s house would have encroached on the right-of-way
for the street, if platted. This was cause for concern on
his part as well as the financial burden the plat would
impose.
Staff views this application as a good compromise. The only
remaining item to follow-up will be, a letter from the
applicant requesting separate utility meters if desired.
8. Staff Recommendation:
Approval as filed.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTIQN: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
The Planning Staff presented its recommendation pointing out that
there were not many issues to be resolved.
In a brief discussion, the Planning Commission determined that it
was appropriate to place this item on the Consent Agenda for
approval. A motion to that effect was made. The motion passed
by a vote 8 ayes, 4 nays. 2 absent and 1 open position.
2
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO, 15 FILE Z -6 Q.37
NAME: Hanks Furniture, Inc. - Conditional
Use Permit
LOCATION: 9900 I-30
OWNERIAPPLICANT: Henry C. Browne
PROPOSAL: To construct a warehouse building
to serve the existing adjacent
stone and several off-site stores.
ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS:
1. Site Location:
This property is located about 1/3 mile west of McDaniel
Drive on the I-30 frontage. The abutting uses are mixed,
ranging from office to industrial. The site contains some
low ground with possible floodplain.
2. Compatibility with Neighborhood:
The adjacent land to the east is commercial for about a mile
on both sides of 1--30, both zoning and usage. To the west
there is a scattering of mobile homes which access from,
Mabelvale Pike to the north. There is 304 feet to 400 feet
separation. The balance of the neighborhood is commercial
or industrial. Munsey Products lie; immediately across I--
30. There should be no adverse effect.
3. on --Site nrives and Parking:
These have been reviewed by staff and will serve to meet
ordinance at this time. The second phase or future
expansion may require additional parking or truck
maneuvering and dock area.
4. Screening !InA Buf £ r :
There are no design issues of consequence, however the owner
should provide parking space marking, landscaping and truck
dock areas on the Conditional Use Permit Plan.
5. City En in er'Comments:
The applicant has made application for building permit and
was informed of Public work's requirements and is in the
process of conforming.
September 19, 1995
SQBDIVI_SION
EM O.: 15 (Cont.) I O : Z-6027
5. utility Co s1.
Water, Pro rata front footage charges of $12/foot acreage
charge of $150/acre apply in addition to normal connection
charge. On site fire protection is required, including an
additional private fire hydrant.
Wastewater, Sewer available, not adversely affected. Runoff
from Detention pond must be diverted away from existing
manholes located in the area.
Faire: An additional fire hydrant is required.
7. Staff Analysis:
This project is before the Commission because the owner
proposes to warehouse merchandise for several stores from
this building. If he served the on-site store only a
conditional use permit would not be required.
There are no outstanding issues on this application. There
is as we indicated above a potential for more parking or
maneuvering space in the future if the second phase is
constructed.
It is believed by staff that the issues raised on the
building permit review will be dealt with by the owner and
review of those items is needed here.
8. staff Recommendation:
Approval of the plan and conditional use permit subject to
items noted above.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
The Planning Staff presented its recommendation which was
approval of the application as filed. It was subject to
compliance with the items pointed out in the Staff Analysis under
utility comments and understanding that a future expansion for
phase 11 as reflected would cause additional parking to be
required.
The applicant was present. He indicated that the staff
recommendation was acceptable. The Chairman asked if there were
persons present in attendance wishing to comment on this matter.
There was at Least one card submitted. A Mr. Jeff Mitchell, a
resident of 8529 Mabelvale. Pike, came to the microphone and
offered concerns.
2
September 19, 1995
SUHnIVISIQi
ITEM NO.: 15 [Cont.,_. FILE NQ._: Z-6037
Mr. Mitchell pointed out that although the staff write --up
indicated mobile home usage only to the west and north. His
residence does rear upon this development area. He stated that
there were several concerns he had that had been discussed with
this applicant and an agreement had been reached. The agreement
was offered for placement in writing for the staff's file. The
applicant indicated that these several conditions were acceptable
to him and they would be accomplished.
Following a brief general discussion of the application. A
motion was made to approve the application with the several items
requested by Mr. Jeff Mitchell. These items were:
the construction of an 8 foot privacy fence along
the east and south property line extending from the
southeast corner of the Mitchell property to cover
the area left by the clearing of the construction
site. The fence is to be extended at least 90 feet
due north from the southeast corner of the Mitchell
property along the east property line and to be
extended at least 64 feet due west from the
southeast corner of the Mitchell property along the
south property line. It was also agreed that the
developer would leave the existing wooded area
intact as a buffer and would also plant additional
evergreen trees in the buffer between the two
properties.
A vote on that motion produced 8 ayes, D nays, 2 absent and
1 open position.
3
September 19, 1995
ITEM NO....._..._....._.1-6.._... .,, ,.,,. FILE No.: 9-2479-G
NAME: BAPTIST HEALTH LAUNDRY FACILITY -- 110-2" SITE. PLAN REVIEW
LOCATION: On the east side of Emergency Dr., approximately 0.1
mile north of Kanis Rd.
BAPTIST HEALTH
9601. I-630, Exit 7
Little Rock, AR 72205
227-8478
AREA: 5.3 ACRES
ZONING: O-2
NUMBER OF LOTS,:
ENGINEER:
Frank Riggins
THE MEHLBURGER FIRM
P. o. Box 3837
Little Rock, AR 72203
375-5331
1 FT. NEW STREET: 4
PROPOSED UaES : Laundry Facility; offices
LANNING_DISTRICT: 11
CE 24.44
VARIANCES REOU&ETED: Approval of a variance from the 25 foot
front building setback line for the front steps and porches.
TATEMRST_OF PROPOSAL:
The applicant proposes the construction of a laundry facility to
serve the Baptist Health System. The building is to be two
stories on the north end of the building, and three stories on
the south. (This design is dictated as a response to the
elevation change across the site.) Each of the two upper floor
will contain approximately 30,000 square feet; the lower floor,
the basement, will contain approximately 1.5,000 square feet. The
first floor will house the laundry operation; the second,
offices; the basement, which opens to the south, will be used for
loading and unloading laundry for use by other Baptist Health
facilities. The laundry facility building will be connected to
the main hospital building by an enclosed corridor. This
corridor will also house a pneumatic conduit to carry laundry
between the laundry facility and the hospital. Parking for the
facility is to be provided across Emergency Dr. to the east. A
sidewalk is to be constructed along the Emergency Dr. frontage of
the project.
September 19, 1995
BD' VISION
TEM NO.: 15 {C nt. FILE O.: Z-2 79-G
The main entry and side entry porches and steps extend over the
front building setback line along Emergency Dr., with the porches
extending 7 feet beyond the line and the steps extending an.
additional 5 feet. A variance is requested to permit the main
and side entry porches and steps to extend 12 feet beyond the 25
foot front building line.
Planning Commission review and approval of a site plan for
the Baptist Health Laundry Facility is requested.
Planning Commission approval is requested of a 13 foot
variance from the 25 foot front setback line requirement for
the main and side entry porches and steps.
H. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The intended Laundry Facility location is on the site with
the main Baptist Health Center Hospital building, the MRI
facility, the Baptist Rehabilitation Institute, and the
parking lots which serve these facilities. The new building
will, in fact, take part of the existing parking lot.
The site is zoned 0-2, and is part of a large 0-2 tract
which extends north, south, and west of the site. A large
0-3 tract lies across Emergency Dr. to the west.
C. ENGINEERING/UTILITY COMMENT :
Public Works comments that:
The 25 foot and 24.19 foot driveways are too close to
each other, and should be spaced further apart.
A ramp is to be installed at the northeast corner of
the. building.
The applicant has agreed to dedicate right-of-way for
Kanis and to contribute in -lieu for this project.
Water Works comments that an acreage charge of $154 per acre
applies: that these charges are in addition to the normal
connection charges. Service is off a private fire line.
Hack flow prevention is required on both fire and domestic
service.
Wastewater comments that sewer service is available, but
that a capacity analysis is required for the 10" outfall to
determine if connection will be allowed.
2
September 19, 1995
1(ContFT Z-2079-(
Arkansas Power and Light Co. will require a 14 foot easement
along Emergency Dr.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal.
The Fire Department noted that on-site fire hydrants may be
needed to be added; that the site plan does not show the
location of existing hydrants.
The Neighborhoods and Planning Site Plan Review Specialist
commented that the areas set aside for buffers and
landscaping meet with Ordinance requirements.
D. ISSSUES1LEGAL/TECHNICALIDESIGN:
The Zoning Ordinance, Sec. 36-2, defines a building to
include porches or other similar attachments to a building.
The building footprint shows porches and steps extending
beyond the platted front building line. The site plan
review needs to approve a variance for this encroachment,
and a re -plat of the lot, relocating the platted building
Line, must be prepared and filed.
The Zoning Ordinance, Sec. 36-1.26 thru 36-127, requires site
plan review for all development in the 0-2 zoning district.
The Baptist Health Campus is a continually evolving
development, with the taking of a part of the present
parking lot for the proposed new laundry facility being the
latest change. Parking, then, is being pushed further west,
and is further and further from other buildings on the
campus. An overall parking analysis is needed to assure
that parking is available to the many buildings on the
campus:, and that sufficient parking is being provided to
both meet the parking needs, but to meet the: Ordinance
requirements.
E. ANALYSIS:
The encroachment of the front porches and steps does not
appear to be a problem. It will, however, be necessary to
relocate the platted building line if the variance is
approved and if the development proceeds.
The proposed building is located in a part of the existing
parking lot which is located at the rear of the main
hospital building, and is not heavily utilized. The
hospital, however, needs to work with staff in studying the
parking needs and provisions on the campus, and future
development needs to be preceded by such a study.
3
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 16 (Cont.) FILE NO.; Z -2079-Q
F. STAFF RECOMMI�NDATIQNS:
Staff recommends approval of the site plan, subject to the
applicant working with Public Works on the location of the
drive entrances to the site.
Staff recommends approval of the front building setback
variance.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE CQMMENT: (AUGUST 31, 1995)
Mr. Frank Riggins, with the Mehlbuger Firm, was present. Staff
reviewed with the Committee members the scope of the proposed
project, and voiced concern that the applicant is incrementally
turning more and more parking areas into building sites, and that
the applicant has not presented an overall development plan which
provides for adequate parking. Staff pointed out the requested
building setback variance which needs to be addressed. Mr.
Riggins explained that Baptist Health intends to construct a
cancer research center building between the present hospital
building and the proposed laundry facility: that this
necessitates the laundry facility being as close to the Emergency
Dr. right-of-way as is being proposed; and, that the front
porches and steps of the building will require a variance from
the front setback requirement. He explained that a covered and
enclosed corridor will connect the laundry facility with the
hospital. He also explained that the second level of the
building will be used for offices. Staff noted its concern for
adequate parking for the office use and for parking being
displaced by the new building. The Committee forwarded the site
plan review to the full Commission for the public hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION _ACTT ON: (SEPTEMBER 19■ 1995)
Staff reported that the applicant had amended the site plan to make
the changes required by Public Works, and that there were no
outstanding issues to be resolved. Staff stated, however, that the
applicant needed to prepare the overall campus parking analysis
which had been discussed at the Subdivision Committee meeting and
cited in the agenda comments, and needed to meet with staff on the
parking issues prior to submitting future applications for
development on the campus. The site plan was approved with the
vote of 8 ayes, 0 nays. 2 absent, a abstentions, and 1 open
position.
4
September 19, 1995
ITEM 16a FILE N Z -5472-D
rrAME: CYPRESS PROPERTIES OFFICE BUILDING --- ZONING SITE PLAN
REVIEW
LOCATION: At the northwest corner of Rodney Parham Rd. and
Hinson Rd.
DEVELOPER: ENGINEER:
Robert Brown
LILAC, LLC DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS, INC.
111 Center St. 1.0411 W. Markham St., Suite 210
Little Rock, AR 72201 Little Rock, AR 72205
374-4142 221-78843
AREA: 3.882 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 41.8
Z NI 0-3 PROPOSED_' USES: Limited 0-3 uses (pursuant to
Ordinance No. 1.6,751) and
permitted 0-3 accessory uses
PLAMINg DT TRICT• 1
CENSUS TRACT: 42.05
VARIANCES REOUESTEn: Approval
that a sidewalk be constructed
Ln., Wendy Ln., and Hinson Rd.
BA K R ND•
of a waiver of the requirement
along the Valley Club Circle, Buff
frontages of the site.
Ordinance No. 16,751, passed on Oct.. 4, 1994, rezoned the tract
from R-2 to 0-3, subject to: 1) there being no access to valley
Club Circle, Buff Ln., & Wendy Ln.; 2) the development conform
to the 0-2 area and bulk requirements; 3) the permitted 0-3
uses be limited to specified 0--3 uses (i.e., bank/saving and loan
office; church; clinic; duplication shop; religious, charitable,
or philanthropic organization establishment; laboratory; library,
art gallery, museum, or similar public use; nursing home or
convalescent home; office; photography studio; private school,
kindergarten, or institution for special education; business
school; public or denominational school; broadcasting and
recording studio; art, music, speech, drama, dance, or other
artistic endeavor school; and travel bureau); 43 the building
height be limited to 3 stories or 40 feet; and 5) the site plan
being subject to Site Plan Review.
September 19, 1995
SIIHDIVISI N
I 1(ContFILE NO,: Z - 472--D
TATEMENT OF PROPO
The applicant proposes the development of the 3.882 acre site
with a three-story, 40 foot tall office building to contain
75,004 square feet of floor area. Parking for 229 vehicles is to
be provided, with access to the site to be gained from Rodney
Parham Rd. and Hinson Rd. No access is proposed from valley Club
Circle, Buff Ln., or Wendy Ln. Required widening of Rodney
Parham Rd. to provide the additional pavement width for turn
lanes is anticipated. Landscaping treatments, in lieu of
fencing, are proposed to buffer the residential areas to the
north, west, and northwest, except in those areas where, to
preserve existing trees or where there is insufficient area for
berms, a combination of fencing and landscaping may be utilized.
A waiver is requested from the requirement that sidewalks be
constructed along the valley Club Circle, Buff Ln., Wendy Ln.,
and Hinson Rd. frontages of the site. The applicant notes that:
1) there are few trees which remain within the right-of-way,
that most which do remain are located along the right-of-way
line, so by not constructing a sidewalk along this line, there is
a much better opportunity to save the trees; 2) there are no
sidewalks anywhere in Pleasant valley along the street frontages;
and 3) the existing sidewalk on Hinson Rd. is located along the
south right -of --way line, across the street from the site, and
placing a sidewalk on the north side, along the boundary of this
project, will lead no where, and will, if used, cause pedestrians
to have to cross over Hinson Rd. at Wendy Ln., an unprotected
intersection.
A. PROPOSALlREQUEST:
Planning Commission review and approval of the proposed site
plan is requested.
Planning Commission review and Board of Directors approval
of a waiver of the sidewalk requirement along the Valley
Club Circle, Buff Ln., Wendy Ln., and Hinson Rd. frontages
of the site is requested.
B. EXISTING CONDITIQNS:
The site is a compilation of two tracts, with each of the
existing tracts containing homesteads.
The site is zoned 0-3, with the development and uses of the
site being restricted by ordinance No. 16,751. Across
Rodney Parham to the east is a PCD zoned tract which has
never been developed and is subject to revocation. Across
Hinson Rd. to the south is a large R-5 zoned tract and, to
the west of this area, a small 0-3 zoned tract. An
2
September 19, 1995
EUBDIVISIIiN
TEM NO.: 15a(Cont.)FILE Z- -12
complex occupies the corner tract of the R-5 zoned
land; an office building is located in the 0-3 area. To the
north, west, and northwest is R-2 and R-4 land, with homes
being situated on the R-2 land and the Pleasant Valley golf
course being located in the R-4 area.
C . ENGINEERI11GLUT_I_LITYCOM144NTS :
Public Works comments:
Dedicate additional right-of-way for a right turn lane
on Rodney Parham, and add a lane as previously advised
by Traffic Engineering.
Install sidewalks on the other frontages, with handicap
ramps.
Provide the stormwater detention analysis.
Water Works comments that on-site fire protection will be
required.
Wastewater comments that sewer service is available in the
right-of-way of Buff Ln., Wendy Ln., and Hinson Rd. The
developer will be responsible for bringing service from the
existing main to the property.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. will require a 15 foot easement
around the entire perimeter of the site, and a 10 foot
easement along the alignment of the relocated underground
electric service.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. did not respond.
The Fire Department commented that the site plan appears to
meet the Fire Department's regulations on entry/exit access,
interior driveway width, and proper number and spacing of
fire hydrants.
The Neighborhoods and Planning Site Plan Review Specialist
commented that the areas set aside for buffers and
landscaping are in keeping with Ordinance standards.
D. ISSUES/LEGAL/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
The applicant has requested a waiver from the requirement to
construct sidewalks along Hanson Rd., Buff Ln., wendy Ln.,
and Valley Club Circle. Such a waiver will require Board of
Directors approval.
3
September 19, 1995
SUSDIVI51
ITEM NO 15a (Cont.) FILE NO. _Z -5472-D
Ordinance No. 15,751 which rezoned the property to 0-3
required that the bulk and area requirements of the 4-2
zoning district be observed in the site development. Sec.
35-284 requires, in 0-2 zoning districts, that the front,
side, and rear yard setbacks are to be not less than 25
feet.
E. ANALYSIS_:
The site plan conforms to the 0-2 zoning district
requirements for bulk and area, and to the requirements for
site plan submittals.
The applicant proposes to meet all requirements of the
rezoning ordinance regarding building height and uses.
F. STAFF ATI S:
Staff recommends approval, of the site plan.
The Public works staff recommends denial of the waiver of
the sidewalk improvements on the boundary streets.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 31, 1995)
Mr. John Kincaid, with Cypress Properties, and Mr. Robert Brown,
with Development Consultants, were present. Staff reviewed with
the Committee members the scope of the proposed project, and
reviewed with Mr. Brown the comments contained in the discussion
outline. The Public Works staff representative, David Scherer,
with the Civil Engineering staff, discussed the Public Works
comments, specifically mentioning the design requirements for
widening Rodney Parham Rd. to provide additional lanes, the need
to widen the entrance drive off Hinson Rd. and to modify some of
the interior traffic lane widths and flow patterns, and the need
for sidewalks along all boundaries of the site. Mr. Brown
responded that he would meet with Hill Henry, the Traffic
Engineer, and would resolve the traffic concerns. He indicated,
however, that the waivers for sidewalks which were being
requested would be pursued. The Committee forwarded the site
plan to the full Commission for the public hearing.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Mr. Robert Brown, with Development Consultants, Inc., was
present.
Staff reported that all issues regarding the site plan were
resolved; that the only issue involved the requested waivers of
4
September 19, 1995
UBDIVI I N
ITEM NO.: 16a (Cont.)FILE NQ, :_5--5472-D
street improvements along Hinson Rd. and Wendy Ln., Buff Ln., and
Valley Club Circle.
Mr. Brown explained that, since a sidewalk on Hinson Rd. would
terminate at the west property line of the site and there is no
sidewalk on the remainder of the north side of Hinson Rd., both
because it did not make sense to build the short section of the
sidewalk, and because it would encourage pedestrians to walk to
an unsignalized intersection to cross to the sidewalk on the
south side in lieu of crossing Hinson Rd. at the signalized
intersection at Rodney Parham Rd., a waiver was requested. He
said that, as far as the sidewalks on Wendy Ln., Buff Ln., and
Valley Club Circle are concerned, nowhere else in Pleasant Valley
are sidewalks constructed; that no access is being taken to these
streets from the project; and, that landscaping can be enhanced
along these boundary streets if the sidewalks are omitted.
No one was present to speak in opposition to the site plaza.;
however, it was noted that Ms. Mary Zemann, of #10 valley Club
Circle, had completed an attendance card, indicating opposition
to the request, but was not present at the time the item was
heard.
A motion was made and seconded to approve the site plan, but to
make no recommendation on the boundary street sidewalk waiver
request, leaving a discussion of this issue to the Board of
Directors. The motion carried and the site plan was approved
with the vote of 8 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent, Q abstentions, and
1 open position.
5
September 19, 1995
ITEM N 17 Z-6031
Owner:
Applicant:
Location:
Request:
Purpose:
Size:
Existing use:
Martha Portoni
Martha Portoni
6701 Shaner Circle
Rezone from R-2 to AF,
Agriculture and Forestry
Add wholesale plant nursery
business to this site
1.5± acres
Single -Family residential
SURROUNDING LAND USE AND ZONING
North - Single -Family residence, zoned R-2
South - vacant, wooded tract, zoned R-2
East - Single -Family residence, zoned R-2
West - Single --Family residence, zoned R-2
ENGINEERING COMMENTS
No comments related to this rezoning request. Comments were
made relative to the conditional use permit application
which is Item No. 8 on this agenda (Z -6031-A).
LAND USE ELEMENT
The site is located in the Crystal Valley District. The
adopted Plan recommends Single Family. The site is located
outside the city limits within the Little Rock zoning area.
Staff has gone on record that "AF" zoning would be treated
as single family zoning in this area. Therefore, the
request is in conformance with the Plan.
STAFF ANALYSIS
The request before the Commission is to rezone this 1.5±
acre tract from R-2 to AF. The property is currently
occupied by the applicant's single Family residence. An
application for a conditional use permit (Z -5031-A) has been
filed requesting approval to add a wholesale plant nursery
to the site. The property will continue to be occupied by
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVIS ISN
ITEM NO.: 17 Z-6031 (Cont.)
the applicant and two greenhouse structures will be
constructed on the rear portion of the property if both the
rezoning and conditional use permit are approved.
The AF district is intended to provide a smooth transition
between purely rural areas and newly urbanized areas,
allowing flexibility adequate to permit reasonable
absorption of land use types typically found in the urban
fringe. The site is located outside of the city limits but
within the extraterritorial zoning boundary. AF zoning is
typically treated as single family zoning in this area. The
AF rezoning request is in conformance with the plan.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of the requested AF rezoning.
PLANNING COMMISSIONACTION:
(SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
This item and Item No. 8 (Z -6431-A) were discussed
concurrently.
The applicant, Martha Portoni, was present. There were two
objectors present. Two letters of opposition had been
presented to Commission members. Staff presented both Item
No. 8 (Conditional Use Permit, Z -6031-A] and Item No. 17 (AF
rezoning, Z-61331) together with a recommendation of approval
in both cases.
Martha Portoni, addressed the Commission and briefly
described the material to be used in the construction of the
greenhouses.
In response.to a question from Chairman Walker, Mrs. Portoni
stated that the business would employ herself, her husband
and one other person.
Walter Clements, of 6310 Shaner Circle, addressed the
Commission in opposition to the items. He stated that he
was concerned about commercial development in the area.
During a discussion of deliveries to and from the site, Mrs.
Portoni stated that there would be no delivery trucks and
that .she would be making any deliveries herself.
Sandy McCowen. of 6410 Shaner Circle, addressed the
Commission in opposition to the items. She stated that the
Portonis are bringing in bags of leafs at night. Ms.
McCowen also stated that there was an old mobile home on the
property, behind the Portonis' house.
2
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM N 7 Z-6031 nt.
Mrs. Portoni responded that the business was not much above
the level of a hobby. She stated that the business would be
quiet and that there would be no more than one vehicle at a
time coming and going from the property. Mrs. Portoni
stated that she would remove the mobile home from the
property.
A motion was made to approve the AF rezoning. The motion
was approved by a vote of 7 ayes, 1 noe, 2 absent and 1 open
position.
Commissioner Chachere asked about access to the site from
the rear. Dana Carney, of the Planning Staff, responded
that the Commission could restrict access from the rear if
it chose to but that staff saw no reason to do so.
Mr. Clements and Ms. McCowen asked about possible run-off of
water and chemicals from the site. Mr. Carney pointed out
that the use was totally enclosed and that. there would be no
outside storage or display of plants. He noted that the
City's stormwater detention ordinance was not applicable in
this case.
A motion was made to approve the conditional use permit
subject to removal of the mobile home from the property and
compliance with the City Engineer's Comment to pave the
driveway to a point approximately 50 feet from the street.
The motion was approved by a vote of 7 ayes, 1 noe, 2 absent
and 1 open position.
3
September 19, 1995
ITEM O.: 18 FILE N 4-A
NAME: PARKWAY OFFICE SUBDIVISION, LOT 2 -- SIDEWALK WAIVER
LOCATION: On the west side of Hardin Rd., at the north end of
the Hardin Rd. cul-de-sac, approximately 0.1 idle north of
Financial Center Parkway
DEVELOPER:
ENGINEER.-
John
NGINEER:
John A. Rees Pat McGetrick
REES DEVELOPMENT, INC. MCGETRICK ENGINEERING
12115 Hinson Rd. 11225 Huron Ln., Suite 200
Little Rock, AR 72212 Little Rock, AR 722111
223-9298 223-9900
AREA: 6.4 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 4
ZOING: 0-3 & OS
PLANNING DISTRICT: 2
CENSUS TRACT: 24.04
VARIANCES REOUESTED: N.A.
PROPOSED USES: Offices
The Planning Commission approved the preliminary plat for the
Parkway Office Subdivision on December 3, 1991. Coupled with
this approval was a recommendation for approval of three
variances, which were subsequently approved by the Hoard of
Directors in Ordinance No. 16,140, passed January 7, 1992: the
cul-de-sac was permitted to exceed the 300 foot maximum length
allowed by the regulations: the commercial street right-of-way
width was permitted to be 50 feet in lieu of the required 60
feet; and, the commercial street width was permitted to be 27
feet in lieu of the required 36 feet. A sidewalk was
specifically required along all rights-of-way frontages in the
subdivision, and was provided when the Government Service
Administration (GSA) building was constructed on the opposing lot
to the northeast of the Hardin Rd. cul-de-sac. (The GSA and the
applicant's buildings are the only two buildings to have been
built to date in the subdivision.) Additionally, the sidewalk
was required at the time the applicant's building permit for the
building on Lot 2 was as approved.
September 19, 1995
SUDDIVISI N
ITEM NO.: 18 Cont.) FILE NO.: S -934-A
STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL:
The applicant proposes a waiver of the sidewalk requirement for
the 400 foot (t) frontage of Lot 2 of the subdivision on which he
has developed a 50,000 square foot office building.
The applicant indicates that the steep slope of the land
immediately behind the curb, between the curb and the parking lot
in the area where the sidewalk would be constructed, would
necessitate a retaining wall being provided, adding unnecessary
costs; that there is very little pedestrian traffic along Hardin
Rd.; that a sidewalk exists the entire length of Hardin Rd. on
the opposite (east) side of the street; and, that there are no
residential lots abutting the street. He explains that a
sprinkler system and landscaping are already in place where the
sidewalk would go.
A. PROPOSAWREQUEST :
Review by the Planning Commission and approval by the Board
of Directors is requested for a waiver of the requirement
that a sidewalk be constructed along the Lot 2 frontage of
the subdivision.
H. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The 0-3 zoned portion of the site is developed. A 50,040
square foot, single -story office building, with accompanying
parking area, has been constructed on the lot. The area
between the back of the Hardin Rd. curb and the parking
areas has been landscaped.
The site is zoned 0-3, with a 50 foot wide OS strip lying
along the west and north property lines. Abutting property
to the north and rarest is zoned R-2. Across Hardin Rd. to
the east is 0-3 and PCD property. (The PCD property is the
location of the Courtyard by Marriott hotel, and this
property is not in the Parkway Office Subdivision.) The
property to the south is zoned C-2 and C-3 and is the site
which was approved for the construction of the Hampton. Inn
hotel. At the corner of Hardin Rd. and Financial Center
Parkway is a C-3 tract which has been cited as a probable
restaurant location.
C. ENGINE$RING/TTILITY_COMMENTS:
Public works comments that the applicant made a $5,000 in -
lieu contribution for the required sidewalk; that this in -
lieu contribution was made in order to obtain a Certificate
of occupancy for the applicant's newly completed building.
The applicant, in a letter, guaranteed to build the sidewalk
2
September 19, 1995
ITEM NQ. 1S (Cont.) FILE No. S- 934--A
or to seek the needed wavier within 60 days; the 60 -day time
period lapsed on February 15, 1995. The applicant's
engineer was contacted and advised of the need to resolve
the issue, but, after six months had elapsed and nothing had
been done to either build the sidewalk or seek the needed
waiver, the $5,000 check was processed. Public works
points out that the sidewalk was required from the time the
preliminary plat was approved and was specifically provided
for when the building permit was issued. Public Works
points out that the lawn sprinkler system and landscaping
were installed in the area set aside for the sidewalk after
the 60 -day period had lapsed. Public Works recommends that
the sidewalk be required to be constructed by the applicant;
that the waiver be denied. Public Works recommends that, if
a waiver is approved, that the in -lieu Contribution be
forfeited by the applicant.
water Works reported no comments.
Wastewater reported no comments.
Arkansas Power and Light Co. did not respond.
Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. did not respond.
Southwestern. Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal
without comment.
The Fire Department approved the submittal without comment.
D. ISSUES/LEGAL/TECHNICAL/DESIG:
Sec. 31-209 in the Subdivision Regulations and the master
Street Plan require a sidewalk along both sides of
commercial streets. A waiver of this requirement requires
Board of Directors approval.
E. ANALYSIS:
The requirement for a sidewalk was specifically dealt with
and provided for in both the approval of the preliminary
plat for the subdivision and in the approval of the building
permit for the applicant's building. The GSA building at
the opposing segment of the cul-de-sac has the required
sidewalk. The applicant chose to wove ahead with installing
the sprinkler system and landscaping in the area of the
required sidewalk without first seeking the waiver, and has
sought the waiver after these were installed and after
Public works processed the in -lieu check.
The site immediately to the south is approved for a hotel;
the site further south, at the corner of Hardin Rd. and
3
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM No.: 1.8 (Cont.) FILE S -934 -A
Financial. Center Parkway, is proposed as a restaurant site.
Should these sites develop as anticipated, to include eating
establishments, there is likely to be pedestrian traffic to
and from these sites, and tenants of the applicant's
building and of the GSA building will be the probable users.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends denial of the waiver.
Staff recommends that, if a waiver is approved, the
applicant's in -lieu payment be forfeited.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:
(AUGUST 31, 1995)
Mr. John Rees, the developer, and Mr. Pat McGetrick, with
McGetrick Engineering, were present. Staff reviewed with the
Committee members the nature of the request for a sidewalk
waiver. Mr. Rees explained the rationale for requesting the
waiver: that there is and would be practically no pedestrian
traffic along Hardin Rd.; that the slope is too great behind the
curb to install a sidewalk without constructing a retaining wall;
and, that the expenditure for the sidewalk would be an unneeded
and an excessive cost. The Committee forwarded the request to
the Commission for the public hearing.
PLANNING COMMIMION A TION: (SEPTEMBER 19, 1995)
Mr. John. Rees, the developer, was present.
Staff outlined the requested waiver, recounting the history of
the situation as explained in the staff report.
The Commission, however, in a general discussion, came to the
position that, since the Commission is advisory only on waiver
issues, the hearing of the waiver request should be held by the
Board of Directors.
A motion was made and seconded to refer the waiver request to the
Board of Directors without a recommendation by the Commission.
This motion was approved with the vote of 7 ayes, 0 nays.
3 absent, 4 abstentions, and 1 open position.
4
September 19, 1995
ITEM N 19 FILE No.:
ame:
Valley Drive Name Change to Elaine
Drive
Locatio Valley Drive from the corner at
Watson School to its south terminus
at Yorkwood Drive
petitioner:
Reauesj;. To change the name only on the
~° north -south leg.
1,Ab=tina uses an own r hi s
All of the abutting lots are zoned or used single family or
low density residential. The entire frontage of the street
for 314 mile is platted as residential.
2. Nei hb rhood Ef f rad P i i
This neighborhood is split on this issue with owners and
tenants north of Mabelvale Cutoff opposing and south of
there requesting the action. There will probably be a
number of people present to argue against the petition.
3. Eff t on Pu lic ervi c gg
None, except that Public Works staff and 911 Emergency
Services will require involvement if approved.
STAFF ANALYST
The history of this street name is long and involves several
subdivisions, plus the street direction change at Watson School
which creates two east --west legs and the north -south leg.
City policy has always been to avoid name conflict or
misdirection in naming of streets but this one happened nearly 34
years ago. The proposal presented is a reasonable modification
of the street name conflict. However, it appears that the
objection north of Mabelvale Cutoff suggests another solution.
The only quick fix and one that leaves the objectors out of the
change would be to rename only the Yorkwood leg south of
Mabelvale Cutoff with new signage at that intersection. In any
event all involved persons should be aware that change of a
street name causes disruption of a home, a business, church or
any land use and should be carefully thought out.
September 19, 1995
SIIHDIVISIQI�
IT 19 (ContJ FILE No.: G-25-170
ING COMMISSION -ACT
ION: (SEPTEMBER 19. 1995)
The Chairman identified item No. 19 and indicated that the staff
should present its recommendation. Richard Wood, of the Staff,
came forward identifying himself as the staff member reviewing
and preparing the agenda item.
Wood offered a brief history of this application. The
involvement of the numerous property owners signing petitions
both for and against the application. Wood identified the street
name as being Elaine Drive, that was proposed for placement on
the north -south leg of Valley Drive. Wood indicated the numbers
of persons signing petitions both for and against the
application. He indicated that there were approximately 10
persons that signed the petition initially in favor but now
oppose the name change.
Wood stated that Planning Staff typically does not offer a
specific recommendation nor do we involve ourselves in the
process determining what name should be applied. This is left to
the neighborhood, specifically those persons living on that
street. The names selected by those residents would be
acceptable so long as it did not conflict with any other street
name in the city. Wood stated that staff feels somewhat
compelled in this circumstance to offer a suggestion as to a
remedy. In this instance, it appears that the majority of the
opposition to the change is on the original segment of Valley
Drive lying north of Mabelvale Cutoff and the larger body of
support signatures comes from the Yorkwood Subdivision lying
south of Mabelvale Cutoff. The Staff feels that changing the
name south of the cutoff would serve this application at this
time.
There are perhaps persons living on the Yorkwood segment of the
roadway that may disagree with the name change. The Chairman
accepted the staff's presentation and recommendation.
Chairman Walker then posed a question to those persons in
attendance as to whether there were objectors to changing the
name south of Mabelvale Cutoff only. At this time, one came
forward with a comment of objection. The Chairman stated that in
as much as the 12 to 15 persons present did not oppose the change
recommendation by staff and there does not appear to be a reason
to proceed further. He placed the item on the floor before the
Commission for a motion. The specific action to be on renaming
the street to Elaine Drive south of Mabelvale Cutoff to its
southern terminus.
At this point, a commissioner noted that there was a person
attempting to gain the attention, of the Chairman. She came
forward offering a comment. She stated that did not oppose
2
September 19, 1995
allBDIVI, T 1
ITEM No.: .19—(Cont.)FILE G-25-170
limiting the name change to that area within the Yorkwood
Subdivision; however, she did oppose changing the name to Elaine
Drive. Her question was should we not be applying a name in this
area more compatible with the type of name that applies in this
subdivision that being old English style names, such as Guinavere
and Yorkwood.
Chairman Walker then stated that perhaps since the issue had been
reduced to this smaller segment of street, then perhaps the item
could be deferred for resolution by those persons as to the
appropriate naming with perhaps a notice to other parties beyond
that area, if there would be an effect or change in the position.
The Chairman then recognized Mr. John Lamb. Mr. Lamb came
forward representing himself as one of the persons initiating
this petition. He stated that he represented the Yorkwood
Neighborhood Association. Mr. Lamb offered a history of this
application and petition. He indicated that the neighborhood had
held a number of meetings. There was a selection committee that
developed a number of names that were offered for use as the
change. During the course of these meetings and the selection
process, Elaine Drive was chosen. Mr. Lamb stated that he knew
that there was someone present opposed to the name selected.
However, they could not address everyone's concern and had to
come up with a name for replacement in the petition.
The unidentified person who identified herself as a resident on
Valley Drive in Yorkwood stated that she was not aware of any of
the meetings that had been held on this. Her first notice of
change came from a notice that was placed on her door.
Chairman Walker pointed out that the Commission typically is not
good in these kinds of situations with respect to arbitrating
differences. He asked that Richard Wood, of the Staff, offer
some history on how these kinds of things are dealt with. Wood
restated a previous comment that staff and city personnel do not
get involved in selecting name changes, except with respect to
eliminating potential conflict. He indicated that perhaps in
this situation the best means of resolution is for the committee
to go back to the neighborhood people and hold another meeting to
determine whether or not they can come to some change agreement
or whether they are at a circumstance where we have only one
person's objection. This person may continue to be dissatisfied
with the name that is chosen.
Chairman, Walker asked Mr. Lamb if they had a problem with doing
that. Mr. Lamb indicated that there is a monthly meeting of the
neighborhood association.
Chairman Walker directed a question to Tim Polk, of the Staff, as
to how the staff felt about this matter as it has developed.
3
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 19 4COntFILE NO.:_ G_-2 5170
Mr. Polk indicated that he felt perhaps the neighborhood needed
to go back and discuss the item further.
In a following brief discussion between staff and commissioners,
it was pointed out that there is not a requirement that 100% of
property owners or residents approved of a name change. There is
only a majority occupant requirement for participation in order
to get the item before the Planning Commission and the City
Board. The final arbiter is the City Board through a resolution.
This discussion was followed by a brief discussion between Mr.
Lamb and Chairman walker concerning deferral with Chairman. Walker
pointing out that he felt this issue really needed more
discussion. Walker pointed out that a deferral would bring this
item back to the Planning Commission at the October 17 public
hearing. If there are no problems or continuing objections with
the name at that time, perhaps it could be placed on the Consent
Agenda and approved without further discussion..
Commissioner Adcock then posed a question of Mr. Lamb as to how
many times this matter had been brought up at the property
owners' association meeting. He stated the matter had been
brought up approximately 4 months ago and discussed at every
meeting during the past 4 months.
A brief discussion then followed between Commissioner Adcock and
the person who was present objecting to the "Elaine" name change.
A question was presented and clarified concerning the 12 names
offered from which Elaine was chosen. The objector pointed out
that she could not make the 5:00 meeting. This is the time that
the association meets.
Tim Polk, of the Staff, asked the Chairman if it would be
appropriate for Wood to come forward and make a comment on this
item of name selection. Richard Wood came forward and presented
a brief statement reminding everyone that again we do not
participate in the selection of the name and do not require that
a 100% approval be presented from all the residents along the
street. wood pointed out that staff feels it would be
appropriate to defer this item to the last meeting in October
which is the 31st and is the next Subdivision Hearing date. This
would give everyone six weeks to deal with this matter and
attempt to come to some resolution. Again Wood reminded the
Commission and those present that the objectors may not carry the
day. They may not resolve this issue to their satisfaction.
Chairman Walker then brought the item to a close by offering a
motion himself. The motion being that this item be deferred to
the next Subdivision Hearing which was identified by Staff as
being the 31st and pointing out that the consideration at that
time would be the name change of Valley Drive, south of Mabelvale
Cutoff through the Yorkwood Subdivision and should other portions
4
September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION
ITEM, 1 n FILE N -25-170
of Valley Drive, north of Mabelvale Cutoff be reintroduced for
change that those property owners and neighborhoods be notified.
A vote on Chairman Walker's motion produced 8 ayes, 4 nays.
2 absent and 1 open position. The application is deferred to
October 31.
5
September 19, 1995
ITM 20 FT
MEN -23-240
Name: Cypress property utility easement
abandonment
Location: 333 feet east of Wendy Lane on
northside of Hinson Road (in phase
IT Pleasant Valley Addition).
Owner/Applicant: Cypress Properties by development
consultants by Robert Brown
Proposal: To abandon an easement running
north and south along the east side
of Lot °A" P.V. phase 11, between
Valley Club Road and Hinson Road.
STAFF REVIEW;
1. Public Need for This Right,-of=wav
None evidenced by this review, in as much as the utilities
in place will be moved westward and on the same lot.
2. Master Street Plan
No issues
3. Need for Right -of --Way pn Ad-iacent Streets
None associated with this petition.
4. Characteristics of Right -of -Way Terrain
Gentle grade across lots with a drainage ditch nearby and
parallel
5. Development Potential
None, except if abandoned in the manner requested so as to
allow de'v'elopment of abutting lots with one building.
6. Neighborhood Land Use and Effect
Little or none since the existing services will be
relocated.
September 19, 1995
SUHDIVISIQN
ITEM NO.; 28 (Cont..) FILE NO. G-23-240
Neighborhood Position
None, both abutting lots are party to the development that
will place a building over the right-of-way as now situated.
8. Effect on Public Services or Utilitioss
None. Relocation is planned at developer's cost.
9. Reversionary Rights
None. No title issue involved.
10. Public welfare and Safety Iggues
None
UTAFF RECOMMENDAT�QN:
This petition is carried on this agenda as a companion item to
the site plan review in Item 16A. The building indicated on that
plan sits across the lot line at this easement. The developer
has worked with utility interests to relocate the current
facility somewhat west of the current alignment. The staff
recommends that the request be approved with a condition in the
ordinance protecting the possibility that the project fails after
ordinance passage and there is no new easement of record.
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September 19, 1995
SUBDIVISION MINUTES
There being no further business before the Commission, the meeting
adjourned at 1:45 p.m.
Date
Chairman