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HomeMy WebLinkAboutpc_01 10 1995subI. II. LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION SUBDIVISION HEARING SUMMARY AND MINUTE RECORD JANUARY 10, 1995 12:30 P.M. Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum A Quorum was present being ten in number. Approval of the Minutes of the November 29, 1994 meeting were approved as mailed. III. Members Present: Members Absent: City Attorney: Diane Chachere, Chairperson Suzanne McCarthy Emmett Willis, Jr. Ramsay Ball Bill Putnam Doyle Daniel Pam Adcock Joe Selz Brad Walker Mizan Rahman Ron Woods None Stephen Giles LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION SUBDIVISION HEARING AGENDA JANUARY 10, 1995 12:30 P.M. I. Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum II. Approval of the Minutes of the Previous Meeting III. Presentation of the Consent Agenda IV. Presentation of Hearing Items FOR YOUR INFORMATION: Next Month's Meeting Dates: Filing Date: January 16, 1995 Planning Commission Meeting: February 21, 1995 Subdivision Committee Meeting: February 2, 1995 LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION SUBDIVISION AGENDA JANUARY 10, 1995 I. DEFERRED ITEMS: A. Mid - America Center -- Amended Short -Form Planned Residential Development (Z- 4085 -C) B. Global Learning Center -- Short -Form Plan -ned Office Development (Z -5874) C. U -Haul of Arkansas -- Amended Short -Form Planned Commercial Development (Z- 4074 -A) D. Gaines St. and W. 24th. St. -- Short -Form Planned Residential Development (Z- 4135 -A) E. Markham Plaza Shopping Center -- Amended Short -From Planned Commercial Development (Z- 4422 -B) F. Revocation of McCrary -- Short -Form Planned Residential Development (Z -5108) G. 2013 South Van Buren -- Special Use Permit (Z -5920) H. Alltel Cellular Tower, Southedge Drive Site -- Conditional Use Permit (Z -5906) I. Sears Accessory Dwelling -- Conditional Use Permit (Z -5909) II. PRELIMINARY PLAT: 1. Leatrice Ann Subdivision -- Preliminary Plat (S -24 -AAA) III. PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT: 2. The Villages of Chenal -- Long -Form Planned Commercial Development (Z -5936) IV. SITE PLAN REVIEWS: 3. Mabelvale Business Park -- Amended Site Plan Review (Z- 3459 -B) 4. Core Source -- Site Plan Review (Z- 5141 -A) Planning Commission Agenda, Page 2 V. CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS: 5. Seiter Barber and Beauty Shop -- Conditional Use Permit (Z -5921) 6. New Jerusalem Baptist Church -- Conditional Use Permit (Z -5923) 7. Lewis Street Church of Christ -- Conditional Use Permit (Z -5931) 8. Word of Outreach Day -Care Center and Staff Housing -- Conditional Use Permit (Z -5933) 9. Pulaski Heights Methodist Church Day -Care Center -- Conditional Use Permit (Z -5935) 10. Elliott Pizza and Sandwich Shop -- Conditional Use Permit (Z- 4384 -8) VI. RIGHT -OF -WAY ABANDONMENTS: 11. Block 4, A. C. Reads Addition -- Alley Abandonment (G -23 -228) 12. Lots 3 and 4, Wilkinson's Replat -- Alley and Easement Abandonment (G -23 -227) 13. Monroe Street -- Right -of -Way Abandonment (G -23 -229) VII. OTHER MATTERS: 14. Caristianos° Pride Valley Development -- Subdivision Ordinance Waiver (S -1046) January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: A FILE NO.: Z- 4085 -C NAME: MID - AMERICA CENTER -- AMENDED SHORT -FORM PRD LOCATION: On the north side of W. Roosevelt Rd., between S. Wolfe and S. Battery Streets DEVELOPER: FRED RODGERS 2407 S. Battery Little Rock, AR 374 -9844 St. 72206 AREA: 1.88 ACRES ENGINEER• Samuel L. Davis S. DAVIS CONSULTING, INC. 5301 West 8th. Street Little Rock, AR 72204 664 -0324 NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 ZONING: PRD PROPOSED USES: Day Care and Residential PLANNING DISTRICT: 8 CENSUS TRACT: 11 VARIANCES REQUESTED: None STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: The applicant proposes an amendment to an existing PRD in order to make substantive changes to the originally approved master site plan and to the allocation of uses for the various buildings on the site. The original PRD, approved by the Planning Commission on March 8, 1988, then by the Board of Directors on April 19, 1988, in Ordinance No. 15,440, approved a master site plan with three principal buildings: an existing 2 -story home facing Wolfe St. containing 6,400 square feet; a new single -story building at the corner of Wolfe St. and Roosevelt Rd. containing 11,300 square feet; and, a new single -story building at the corner of Battery St. and Roosevelt Rd. containing 4,200 square feet. The existing 2 -story building, combined with the 11,300 square foot building was planned to be a residential care facility. The 4,200 square foot building was to be a child care center. Subsequent to that approval, the residential care use was implemented in the existing 2- story, 6,400 square foot building facing Wolfe St.; however, the two new buildings were not built. Then, on December 12, 1989, the Commission heard a request to amend the PRD to change the use in the existing 2- story, 6,400 square foot building from residential care to child care. Included with the request was a proposal to add a 24 foot by January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4085 -C 20 foot, 2 -story addition to the building as a new entry /drop -off point for the child care facility, and to provide parking and an access drive to the facility in the area formerly shown as the location of the new buildings. The Commission approved the request and the Board of Directors amended the PRD in Ordinance No. 15,801 on January 16, 1990. Now, in the current proposal, additional land is being included in the PRD site, and the uses are proposed to change. An additional residential lot which faces Battery St. is to be included in the PRD. This lot contains a duplex residential structure. it is to be used for offices for the facility on one side of the duplex, and continue to be used as a residence on the other. The existing 2 -story building which faces Wolfe St. is to continue being used for a child care facility on the first floor, but, in addition, a residential care facility is proposed to be implemented on the second floor. A new addition which joins these two buildings, straddling what was once an alley way, is proposed to be 2 stories, and is to contain child care space on the first floor, with residential care and residential uses on the second. The applicant states that a residential care facility is one which is used to provide, for pay and on a 24 -hour basis, a place of residence and boarding for persons who need a place to live. This use includes providing a place for daily activities for residents for planned group recreation and socialization. The facility, then, will include lounge and living areas, a central dining facility with a fully equipped kitchen, bath facilities, laundry, administrative offices, and an apartment for the facility manager. Residential care for 70 persons is proposed. The child care center is proposed to serve 150 children, 2 1/2 years of age and above. The required number of employees to tend to this number of children, according to the applicant, is 12, plus a director and administrative secretary. This facility will include a multi - purpose area for activities, dining, and sleeping, and will have a kitchen, toilets for adults and children, an isolation health room, and an administrative office. The applicant proposes to provide 86 parking spaces. The entire site is to be fenced for security purposes. A. PROPOSAL /REQUEST: Review by the Planning Commission and approval by the Board of Directors is sought for a revision to an existing PRD to: 1) include additional land area in the PRD site and amend the approved PRD site plan; and 2) change the allowable uses approved for the PRD. An existing residential lot and E January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO..: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4085 -C residential duplex structure is proposed to be included in the PRD site. A new addition is proposed to connect the existing 2 -story building which faces Wolfe St. with the existing duplex which faces Battery St. The existing duplex is to continue to be used for a residence on one side; the second side of the duplex is to be used for administrative offices for the facility. The 2 -story building, with its 2 -story addition, is to be used for child care on the first floor and residential care on the second floor. The second floor is also to contain a facility manager's apartment. Parking for 86 vehicles is provided, as is a drop- off /pick- up drive for the child care facility and parking for residents and staff. The site is to be fenced with chain link fencing for security purposes. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The site is made up of a 1.66 acre tract currently designated as a PRD, combined with a 50 foot wide residential lot currently zoned R -4. On the 1.66 acre site is a single 2- story, 10,640 square foot facility presently being used for child care on the first floor only. The second floor is unused. Except for this building, the tract is vacant, or is used for access drives and parking. The 50 foot wide lot has a duplex residence located on it. All surrounding property is zoned R -4. There is an elementary school directly to the west of the site. C. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Public Works reports that a sketch grading and drainage plan must be provided. Before issuance of a building permit, engineering must be provided with plans for stormwater detention. Water Works reports no objections. Wastewater reports that the proposed addition (lying between the two existing buildings in the abandoned right -of -way, but in which the easements were retained) lies over an existing 61° sewer main. The sewer main will have to be relocated by the owner and the easement abandoned, or the building will not be permitted to occupy the alley easement. Site Plan review reports that a 6' high opaque wood fence with its structural supports facing inward, or dense evergreen plantings, will be required to screen the proposed expanded area from the residential property to the north. An upgrade in non - conforming landscape area will be required equal to the amount of the expansion. 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4085 -C Building Codes reports that the foundation for the proposed building, which is to connect the 2 existing buildings, was constructed without a permit and without an inspection. The foundation will not be accepted. The project, as proposed, will be well over the allowable floor area as provided in the Fire Prevention Code, and the proximity of the new building alongside an existing structure will be in violation of the same Code. The Code issues listed could be remedied, but would require extensive effort, such as providing exterior fire separation and protection of both existing and new construction; four hour rated fire wall construction in several locations; and installation of a fire sprinkling system. Arkansas Power and Light Co. notes that there is an existing power line in the alley. They report that an easement must be provided; however, since the easement was retained when the alley was abandoned, the easement they request is still in existence. Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. approved the plan as submitted. Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the plan as submitted. The Fire Department will require that the 12 foot wide drive on the north side of the existing daycare building, extending to the north side of the new addition, be increased to provide 20 feet of drive access for fire equipment. Landscape review comments that a 6 foot high opaque wood fence, with its structural supports facing inward, or dense evergreen plantings, will be required to screen the proposed expanded area and the remodeled residence from the residential properties to the north and south. An up -grade in non- conforming landscaping will be required equal to the amount of the expansion, and the remodeled residence will be required to comply with the landscaping ordinance. Land Use review reports that the site is in the Central Business District. The adopted land use plan recommends single - family use for this site. Due to the location next to an elementary school and the visibility problems along Roosevelt, as well as the surrounding residential use, staff does not recommend commercial for the site. If, however, the use is a residential housing situation and child and adult daycare, these uses of the site should not cause significant adverse effects. 4 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4085 -C D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: Parking for rooming houses, boarding houses, etc., the requirement is 0.5 spaces /sleeping accommodation. The applicant states that the facility is to serve 70 residents. This would require 35 parking spaces. Additionally, there are two apartments provided. These require an additional 2 spaces. Parking for child care requires 1 space per employee, plus loading and unloading spaces at a rate of 1 space for each 10 children. The proposal is for 150 children, and there are 14 employees. The parking which is required is 29 spaces. The total required spaces is 66; 86 spaces are provided. The existing head -in parking spaces off Battery St. which serve the existing duplex must be altered so that vehicles do not back directly onto Battery St. Adequate maneuvering space must be provided on -site for vehicles to park, back, and then to enter Battery St. driving forward. The Building Codes division has cited some serious concerns. This division reports that the applicant proceeded to construct the concrete foundation for the proposed 2 -story addition which will connect the existing 2 -story building with the existing 1 -story duplex residence without a permit, and that this foundation is placed over a utility easement. The alley in this location was abandoned; however, the utility easement was retained. The applicant must, first, seek the abandonment of the utility easement, relocating any needed utility lines at his own expense, then, he must do what is required by Building Codes to gain approval of the foundation for the proposed building. E. ANALYSIS: The proposed use is not in conflict with the adopted land use plan, and can be supported from a land use perspective. The applicant has begun the process of abandoning the utility easement, and has stated that he will bear the costs of relocating the utility lines, as required. He has stated that he will do what is needed to satisfy Building Codes. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends approval of the PRD, subject to the applicant: 1) being successful in his application to abandon the utility easement in the closed alley and relocating any utilities in the easement to be abandoned; and, 2) subject to meeting the Building Codes, landscaping, and other comments noted above. ki January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4085 -C SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 18, 1994) Mr. Fred Rodgers, the applicant, was present. Staff outlined the proposal and presented the site plan. The Committee reviewed with Mr. Rodgers the comments contained in the discussion outline. Discussion centered around two issues: the issue raised concerning building the proposed addition in an alley where the utility easements had been retained; and, the issue raised concerning beginning construction on the building addition without a building permit. Staff indicated, also, that Building Codes is concerned that the applicant may be proceeding with a plan without fully realizing what will be required by the Building Code as far as fire walls, sprinkler systems, etc. Mr. Rodgers responded that he would begin immediately to abandon the utility easement in the alley, would do what is necessary to relocate any utilities in the closed alley, and would meet the Building Code requirements. The Committee forwarded the application to the Commission for the public hearing. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 6, 1994) Staff reported that the applicant has begun the process to abandon the utility easement in which the applicant has placed a building foundation, and that the applicant has stated that he will relocated the utilities which are in the easement at his own expense. He has, staff related, also assured staff that he will conform to Building Code requirements in the construction of the building addition. With these matters being dealt with, staff recommended approval of the amended PRD, subject to the utility easement matter being resolved, and subject to Building Codes approving the construction. The item was included on the consent agenda for approval, and the amended short -form PRD was approved with the vote of 10 ayes, 0 nays, 0 absent, 0 abstentions, and 1 open position. STAFF UPDATE: Subsequent to the September 6, 1994 Planning Commission hearing, but prior to the item being heard by the Board of Directors, staff realized that the applicant had failed to provide evidence of all property owners within 200 feet and that the owner had been notified of the proposed action as required by the Commission Bylaws. It was confirmed with the applicant that, indeed, the required supplemental notification had not been accomplished. Therefore, the previous action by the Commission was taken without the applicant conforming to the instructions and Bylaw requirements, and the item must be heard at a public hearing, after proper notification, again. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4085 -C PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (NOVEMBER 29, 1994) Staff reported that the applicant had not complied with either the Commission Bylaw requirements concerning having a licensed abstractor provide a certified list of property owners within 200 feet of the site, nor the Bylaw requirement that all property owners within 200 feet be notified of the meeting. Staff reported that the list of property owners presented to staff was only a computer print -out from the Pulaski County Tax Assessor's office of residential property owners within the 2400 -block of S. Wolfe St. and S. Battery St., and that this list did not include; as a property owner, the Little Rock School District which owns the block across S. Battery St. from the Mid - America Center site, and the list does not include property owners on the south side of W. Roosevelt Rd. and the north side of W. 24th. St. who are within 200 feet of the site. Staff recommended that the item be deferred until the January 10, 1995 Commission hearing to allow the applicant to correct the notification deficiencies. The recommendation for deferral was approved with the vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes, 1 absent, and 0 abstentions. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Staff reported that the applicant had met all the requirements for notification of property owners within 200 feet of the property, and that there are no remaining unresolved issues. Staff recommended approval of the PRD, subject to: resolution of the utility easement and the Building Code issues. Staff reported, though, that a petition, signed by several neighbors, and a letter from a neighbor had been delivered to staff, objecting to the rezoning. Mr. Cedrick Rodgers, the applicant, was present, but indicated that he would rather hear the comments of the opponents prior to his making his presentation. Mr. A. C. Mitchell, indicating that he was representing some of the neighbors who were unable to be present at the Commission meeting, and who had signed the petition which had been delivered to staff, urged the Commission to oppose the rezoning. He related that the neighbors are concerned about the increased vehicle and pedestrian traffic, noise, and the presence of activities associated with the proposed 24 -hour residential care aspect. Mr. John Lewellen said that neighbors to the applicant's Center had called him expressing their opposition to it. He said that there is strong concern about the increased number of clients who will be served by the applicant's operation, and that there is concern that property values will be negatively affected by 7 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 40.85 -C approval of the added use for the PRD. He said that there will be an increase in vehicle traffic, and that access to Roosevelt Rd. will be made more difficult. He stated that the proposed activity is no more than "just another boarding house ", to serve the homeless. This will commingle homeless people with children in the daycare facility, and this, he maintained, could cause problems. Mr. Rodgers explained that he currently has a daycare facility which serves 110 children, and that he wants to add a residential care facility for older children and young adults. He explained that the building is a large building, and that only the first floor is being utilized by the daycare facility; that there is over 6,000 square feet on the second floor of the building which is not being used, and could serve the residential care use which he proposes. Commissioner Daniel asked Mr. Rodgers for information on the ages of clients being served and which would be served with the additional use. Mr. Rodgers said that he proposed that the upstairs area be used for residential care of 3 year old children to 17 year old youths; that the residential care be on an emergency basis, when referred by other agencies or when homeless young people came to the facility in need of a place to stay, and until the Social Service Agency could evaluate the clients and place them in appropriate care facilities. Commissioner Willis asked Mr. Rodgers to explain how long clients would live in the facility. Mr. Rodgers replied that the State would determine the length of stay for the child; that the State could determine that the child should stay in the facility for a year or longer. Chairperson Chachere asked if the clients are criminals, or if they are children who are referred by social service agencies who are being removed from homes by the State. Mr. Rodgers responded that he does not house criminal; that, indeed, the State refers clients for temporary housing until they are evaluated, but the facility could also be used to house the client on a more permanent basis if the State refers the client to their facility. He added, though, that, a child could be accepted for care if they came in off the street. Commissioner Adcock asked for an explanation of the supervision which is proposed for the clients. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4085 -C Mr. Rodgers said that the State sets the standards for supervision, and the number of staff persons would be determined by the State. Commissioner Walker asked Mr. Rodgers if he would restrict access by clients to only those referred by the State. Mr. Rodgers responded that he would not want to do restrict access; that sometimes children who are on the street need a place to stay, and the facility needs the flexibility to take them in on an emergency basis. Commissioner Walker said that he wanted assurance that the facility is not a boarding house, but is and remains the type facility which the applicant proposes. He asked that the conditions be placed on the approval of the PRD that the State, County, or some appropriate governmental agency evaluate the clients within 24 hours of their becoming clients. Mr. Rodgers concurred with this condition. Commissioner Rahman asked for clarification on the aspect of the application concerning 24 -hour care. Mr. Rodgers explained that he was seeking approval for the child care facility to keep children on a 24 -hour basis. He said that some parents work at night, and the child daycare does not provide them with the child care they need. Chairperson Chachere asked Mr. Rodgers to confirm that: 1) he currently has a traditional daycare facility which serves children from about 3 years of age to 12 or 13 years of age; 2) he will submit to the State for licensing for a residential care facility which is planned to serve children ranging in age from approximately 3 years old to 17 years old; 3) the two uses are located in the same building, but they are or would be on separate floors and have different entrances; 4) the children to be served by the residential care facility are housed on an emergency and temporary basis pending their evaluation by the State and placement in foster or other care, as determined by the State; and 5) any children who come to the facility on their own, not referred by the State or other agency, would be evaluated by the State within 24 hours of their arrival at the Center, and placed according to the requirements of the State. Mr. Rodgers confirmed this characterization of his application, as amended. Mr. Lewellen again expressed concern that many of the clients to be served would be coming from the criminal justice system, and that this element is inappropriate to the established residential neighborhood. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4085 -C A motion was made and seconded to recommend amended PRD, and the motion carried with the 0 nays, 0 absent, and 0 abstentions. 10 approval of the vote of 11 ayes, January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: B FILE NO.: Z -5874 NAME: GLOBAL LEARNING CENTER -- SHORT -FORM POD LOCATION: 1608 S. Rock Street; 1613 -15 S. Commerce Street; and, 1623 S. Commerce Street DEVELOPER: Rev. Bobby Lee Marshall GLOBAL LEARNING COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER 1608 S. Rock St. Little Rock, AR 72206 375 -2430 AREA: 0.8 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 3 FT. NEW STREET: 0 ZONING: R -4 PROPOSED USES: Establishment of a religious, charitable, or philanthropic office PLANNING DISTRICT: 8 CENSUS TRACT: 3 VARIANCES REQUESTED: None STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: The applicant proposes to utilize three existing residential structures for the activities undertaken by the Global Learning Center organization. In the structure at 1608 S. Rock St., the upper story is used as a residence for Rev. Marshall; the lower level is used for general offices for the organization, as assembly and lounge area, counseling offices, and a dining and kitchen area. In the structure at 1613 -15 S. Commerce St., a duplex, the north side of the duplex, at 1613 S. Commerce St., is used as a basic skills development facility for children and young people; the south side, at 1615 S. Commerce St., is used as a residence for otherwise homeless men. In the structure at 1623 S. Commerce St., a duplex, the north side is used as a residence for otherwise homeless women; the south side is used as a counseling center. The Global Learning Center seeks to "join forces to help in the fight (to take) our communities back from gang members, dope pushers, alcoholics, addicts, and crime." The Center, then, was organized: 1) to educate high risk youth, adults, and children in basic education courses; 2) to guide students in enrolling in computer skills, clerical skills, and basic communications or language arts courses; 3) to develop violence prevention January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) _ FILE NO.: Z -5874 curriculum for adolescents; 4) to provide counseling and rehabilitation services for parolees and to provide drug prevention and intervention services and drug awareness assistance programs; and, 5) to provide food and shelter for the homeless. These activities are on -going in or are planned uses for the three buildings currently used by the organization. No change in the residential character of the structures and no signage is proposed. Landscaping improvements are underway and are proposed to be expanded. A. PROPOSAL /REOUEST: Planning Commission review and Board of Directors approval of a POD is requested for the Global Learning Center' uses of three existing structures (at 1608 S. Rock St., at 1613 -15 S. Commerce St., and at 1623 S. Commerce St.) for the organization's counseling, school, office, and residential programs and uses. The structure at 1608 S. Rock St. is proposed to continue its use as a residence for Rev. Marshall, located on the 2nd. floor of the home, and, on the 1st. floor, to continue its on -going uses which include: administrative offices for the origination and counseling offices, a lounge and assembly area, and dining and kitchen facilities. The structure at 1613 -15 S. Commerce St. is proposed to continue its use as a residence for homeless men and as a center for teaching young people in basic developmental and communications skills and in language arts. The structure at 1623 S. Commerce St. is proposed to continue its use as a residence for homeless women and as a counseling center for rehabilitation services for parolees, for drug prevention and intervention programming, and drug awareness assistance counseling. No changes to the exterior of or in the residential character of the structures are anticipated. The upgrading of landscaping in the yards is proposed. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The proposed POD site involves three residential structures at three locations: the 2 -story home at 1608 S. Rock St. which occupies 3 lots, a duplex at 1613 -15 S. Commerce St. on a single lot, and a duplex at 1623 S. Commerce St. which, again, is on a single lot. All three locations are in an R- 4 zoned area. Immediately to the west of the S. Rock St. property is an area which is zoned R -5. This R -5 zoned district extends northward from E. 16th. St. and extends eastward to S. Commerce St. There is a church building, in the R -4 zoned district, immediately north of the S. Commerce St. lots. There is a great deal of undeveloped, vacant, or 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5874 abandoned property in the immediate area; however, a block to the east of the S. Commerce St. property, on E. 17th. St., is the beginning of the area in which the City, with C.D.B.G. funding, is designing and constructing new homes for low -to- moderate income persons, and is the area known as a "Model Block ". C. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Public Works reports no comments. Water Works reports no objections. Wastewater reports that sewer service is available, and that there is no adverse effect to the system. Arkansas Power and Light Co. approved the submittal without comment. Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. approved the submittal without comment. The Fire Department approved the submittal without comment. Landscape review reports that the areas set aside for buffers and landscaping meet ordinance requirements. A 6' high opaque screen is required to screen this site from the residential properties. (At 1608 Rock, the properties to the north, west, and south. At 1613 -15 Commerce, the properties to the south, east, and north. At 1623 Commerce, the properties to the north and east.) This screen may be a wood fence with the structural supports facing inward, or be dense evergreen planting. Land Use review comments that the project sites are located within the Central City Planning Districts and are designated as Single - Family Residential on the land use plan. The proposal to operate the Global Learning Center on the three sites is in conflict with the land use plan. An analysis of the neighborhood reveals that, although the area has been in a state of decline in recent years, a solid residential pattern still exists and should be maintained. Community Development Block Grant funds have been invested in the area to enhance the residential character of the neighborhood. Commercial uses would be intrusive and should be located nearer to Main Street. D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: There are no issues which are outstanding, except the land use issue cited above. 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5874 E. ANALYSIS: The proposal is one that encompasses a number of uses on several sites. The proposed uses include some that are deemed to be "commercial" in nature, and these are in conflict with the land use plan. They are viewed by staff as possibly being intrusive to the residential neighborhood and to its redevelopment. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends denial of the POD. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 18, 1994) A Ms. Carter and Mr. Walker were present to represent the applicant. Staff presented an overview of the application and reviewed with the Committee members the site plan of the properties which the applicant is utilizing for the organization's activities. Staff asked the applicant's representatives to delineate and clarify the various activities which are on -going in the three structures. Ms. Carter and Mr. walker explained that at 1608 Rock St., besides being Rev. Marshall's, the applicant's, residence, the building serves as the organization's offices, a group meeting center, and a feeding center where food is both consumed and distributed. The structure at 1613 -15 Commerce St. serves as a tutoring and skills development center and the men's residence. The structure at 1623 Commerce St. serves as a counseling center and women's residence. The Committee reviewed the comments contained in the discussion outline, then forwarded the item to the Commission for the public hearing. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 20, 1994) Rev. Bobby Marshall was present to present his application. Staff presented the request, and indicated that the use category of "establishment of a religious, charitable, or philanthropic office" was a category from the Zoning Ordinance which was chosen as one that best captured all the variety of uses proposed to be undertaken in the POD, but that the Global Learning Center was not to be understood to be necessarily a religious use. Staff pointed out that the word "or" designated that the uses could be religious, or charitable, or philanthropic uses. Rev. Marshall indicated that the staff's presentation and explanation of the request was sufficient, and that he would rather respond to the comments of objectors. 4 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5874 Ms. Rita Spillenger, indicating that she and her husband were in opposition to the request, said that they opposed any commercial rezonings in the area. They had made a significant investment in the neighborhood in buying a home in the area, and were interested in seeing that the neighborhood was revitalized as a residential area. They had bought the home knowing that the area was residential, and expect the area to remain residential. Ms. Spillenger also complained that Rev. Marshall has been less than forthcoming in the information he has provided regarding the nature and scope of the activities pursued by his organization. Rev. Marshall, she said, had been engaged in the pursuit of his activities for more than a year without the permission of the City, and that it was only after the neighbors brought the matter to the City's attention that the application for the rezoning was made. She also stated that Rev. Marshall did not have the permission of the property owners to seek the rezoning. Ms. Spillenger reported that she had invited Rev. Marshall to her home to discuss their opposition to the proposed rezoning, and to discuss their contention that drug abusers were frequenting the premises. The residents are not adequately supervised, and the facility has not met any licensing requirements, she said. She complained that there is trash and there are liquor bottles in the alley between Rev. Marshall's house and her home that are there due to the Global Learning Center clientele, and that there is traffic in the alley till all hours of the night. As far as the safety of the neighborhood is concerned, she said that her garage and back yard have been broken into, so she did not see that Rev. Marshall's organization was improving the safety of the area. Rev. Marshall, she said, refused to discuss the matter, and had, she said, called her a racist. At another scheduled meeting, which Rev. Marshall had set, Rev. Marshall had failed, she continued, to attend. She stated that, contrary to Rev. Marshall's contention, she and her family are not racists; that she supports the activities of organizations such as Global Learning Center, when they are in an appropriately zoned area, and when the activities are properly supervised and the institution is properly licensed. Ms. Tennie J. Swaford, identifying herself as an area resident, said that, although she does not object to Rev. Marshall and his program, she does object to rezoning the neighborhood for commercial uses. Ms. Joan Gould, stating that she owns a home and property which back up to Rev. Marshall's property, said that she objects to the non - residential uses of the property. She had bought the home because she wanted to live in a down -town, integrated, residential neighborhood. She said that she is buying property from the same persons who own Rev. Marshall's property, and that these persons had not been informed of the planned rezoning, 5 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5874 except for the same notice which was sent to property owners in the area. The owners, Mr. and Mrs. Riley, are not, she said, supportive of the proposed rezoning, and are, she suggested, not adequately informed of the goings -on. Two years ago, she said, the Marshalls had been operating a daycare facility in the house at 1608 Rock, and, at that time, the Rileys had stopped the activity, due to it not being permitted within the scope of their insurance coverage on the property. She complained that, over the past two years, although the front of the property facing Rock St. has been improved, the alley between their and Rev. Marshall's property is littered. Food, from the food program, is scattered in the alley, which she has, on a number of occasions, had to clean up. There are numerous vehicles parked on Rev. Marshall's property which are never moved, but are stored on the property and are an eyesore. She complained that Rev. Marshall and his clientele trespass on her property which she is buying from the Rileys, and that she has had to notify Rev. Marshall not to take soil or plant flowers on her property. She said that one instance involving her paying clientele of Rev. Marshall's for removing a tree which had been blown over, where Rev. Marshall had said that the persons she had paid had used the money to buy drugs, caused her to question the adequacy of the supervision afforded to the clientele, and caused her to question her security, and the security of the other neighbors. She said that there are a number of homes in the neighborhood which are historic, and a rezoning to permit a commercial use would devalue these homes. She questioned the legitimacy of Rev. Marshall's program and activities, both from the City's zoning laws, and from the State licensing regulations. She was approved with the vote of 8 ayes, 1 nay, 1 absent, 0 abstentions, and 1 open position. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Staff reported that a letter had been received applicant, dated December 20, 1994, asking tha rezoning be withdrawn. Staff recommended that included on the Consent Agenda for withdrawal, was approved with the vote of 10 ayes, 0 nays, 0 abstentions. from the t the requested POE the item be and the withdrawal 1 absent, and January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: C FILE NO.: Z- 4074 -A NAME: U -HAUL OF ARKANSAS -- AMENDED SHORT -FORM PCD LOCATION: On the north side of Asher Avenue, approximately 600 feet west of University Avenue DEVELOPER: Mike Rose U -HAUL OF ARKANSAS 4809 W. 65th. St. Little Rock, AR 72209 562 -1925 AREA: 3.24 ACRES ZONING: PCD PLANNING DISTRICT: NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 PROPOSED USES: The existing PCD permits mini - storage use, along with an accessory office and dwelling use. The amended PCD requests, in addition, approval of truck and trailer rental uses. CENSUS TRACT: 21.02 10 VARIANCES REQUESTED: None STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: The applicant proposes an amendment to an existing PCD to permit, in addition to the mini- storage and accessory office and dwelling uses permitted in the original PCD, the rental of trucks and trailers from the site. Proposed to be established is a U -Haul truck and trailer rental business to augment the mini - storage business which is on- going. The original PCD was approved by the Planning Commission on February 14, 1984; then, by the Board of Directors on March 7, 1984 in Ordinance No. 14,614. Parking of the trucks and trailers is planned to be provided at the rear of the property against the north property line, and "one or two" units at the front of the facility for display purposes. A. PROPOSAWREOUEST: Review by the Planning Commission and approval by the Board of Directors is sought for an amendment to an existing PCD to permit a use of the site which is in addition to the uses originally approved for the PCD. Originally, in 1984 when January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4074 -A the PCD was approved, the specified uses were mini - storage and the accessory office and dwelling to serve the mini - storage facility. The applicant now wishes, in addition to the on -going mini - storage business, to operate a U -Haul truck and trailer rental business from the site. A U -Haul service center would be used to store the rental vehicles; the subject site is proposed to have on hand only vehicles which have been reserved and are awaiting being picked up, or vehicles which have been "dropped -off" by customers and are awaiting transfer to the service center. Vehicles which are on the site would be parked along the rear /north property line, except for "one or two" trucks or trailers which would be parked at the front of the facility to identify the site as a U -Haul rental location. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The site is fully developed with a large mini - storage facility involving 82,073 square feet of mini - storage space, plus 3306 square feet of space for the office and manager's apartment. Along the east and north, concrete drives extend to the property line. Along the west, the site is developed to within 10 feet of the property line where there is a 10 foot easement. The "L"- shaped building at the front of the property is within a foot and a half of the property line. At the front, along the Asher Ave. frontage of the site, there is a 30 foot by 40 foot area available for landscaping, and there is a 40 foot wide drive approach and drive way. This driveway is used for parking all the way to the street. There is a 16 foot high retaining wall along the rear /north property line. The site is zoned PCD. The properties immediately to the east and west are zoned R -5. The property at the southwest corner of the site is zoned C -4. To the north is a residential neighborhood in an R -3 area. Across Asher Ave. is C -3 property. C. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Arkansas Power & Light approved the submittal without comment. The Fire Department comments that all driveways around all buildings must maintain 20 feet of clearance for fire equipment access. Landscape review comments that the landscaping which was shown on the original approval must be re- installed. 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4074 -A Planning review comments that the site is located within the Boyle Park Planning District, and is designated as Commercial (C) on the land use plan. The proposal is consistent with the adopted plan. D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: The site plan which was approved for the PCD in 1984 showed a 20 foot wide curb cut off Asher Ave., widening to a 24 foot wide drive, with 4 head -in parking spaces off this drive. The area in front of the office - dwelling portion of the building and the parking spaces was to be landscaped. The survey provided with the amended PCD application shows a 40 foot curb cut, the landscaping area reduced by the 20 feet added to the width of the curb cut and driveway, and parking space reduced to permit 3 vehicles to park head -in off the driveway, plus a garage to serve the manager's apartment. A freestanding sign was added in the landscape strip area which was not requested in the original application or shown on the originally approved site plan. The parking requirements for warehouse and storage uses are 5 spaces, plus 1 space per 2000 square feet of floor area up to 50,000 square feet; then, in addition, 1 space per 10,000 square feet over 50,000 square feet. [See Section 36- 502.(4)b.] For the office portion of the facility, the parking requirements are 1 space for 400 square feet. [See Section 36- 502.(2)g.] For the residential use, the requirement is for 1 space per dwelling. [See Section 36- 502.(1)a.] With 82,073 square feet of mini- storage space, plus 1653 square feet of space for the office, plus the manager's apartment, the required number of parking spaces is 33. Parking for 3 vehicles is presently provided, plus the 1 space available in the garage. There is sufficient room along the rear /north property line for 9 additional spaces. The total number of spaces available for parking, then, is 13. The number of trucks and trailers proposed to be stored on the site needs to be designated, as well as the spaces where they will be parked. If modification of the existing curb along the rear /north property line is anticipated, then the site plan must show this. Protection from vehicles of the retaining wall must be provided for. E. ANALYSIS: As stated in the "Existing Conditions" section, "The site is fully developed." The site does not provide adequate 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4074 -A parking. At the office - residential use area, 4 spaces are provided; 5 are required. Assuming that there is no need for additional parking to serve the mini - storage use, there is still no space for the addition of rental vehicles. The approved PCD site plan showed 4 head -ii and a 50 foot by 40 foot landscaped area. has been lost to an addition to the office landscaped area is reduced to a 30 foot by freestanding sign exists in the landscaped not approved for the PCD. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: :a parking spaces One parking space area, and the 40 foot area. A area which was Staff recommends denial of the proposed amendment to the PCD, but does recommends approval of an amendment to the PCD to permit the sign which has been installed to remain in its present location. Staff recommends that a requirement be imposed that the front landscaping be installed pursuant to the originally approved site plan, and that parking not be permitted in the area in front of the front building line. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (AUGUST 18, 1994) Mr. Rod Baldwin, representing U -Haul, was present. Staff presented the applicant's site plan and explained that the site, as shown, was developed; that the request was simply a request to add the rental of trucks and trailers to the listing of approved uses in the existing PCD. Mr. Baldwin indicated that the trucks and trailers are proposed to be stored at the rear of the lot along the north property line, and that only two trucks or trailers would be displayed at the front property line. The Committee members reviewed with Mr. Baldwin the comments contained in the discussion outline. The Committee indicated that no parking would be allowed within the front building setback line, and that parking would be restricted to the area at the rear of the property where 20 feet of clearance for fire equipment could be maintained. The Committee forwarded the item to the Commission for the public hearing. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 6, 1994) Rod Baldwin and Mike Rose were present representing U -Haul of Arkansas. Staff presented the request, and reported that there had been deviations to the site from the site plan originally approved for N January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) _ FILE NO.: Z- 4074 -A the PCD: 1) that there was a sign at the front of the property which was not provided for in the PCD; 2) that in lieu of the 24 foot wide drive shown on the original plan, a 40 foot drive had been constructed, and that in the area originally shown to be landscaped, the wider drive encroached, taking approximately 1/2 of the landscaped area shown on the original site plan; and, 3) the landscaping which had been shown on the original site plan was not present on the site. Staff reported that there was insufficient room at the front of the facility for parking of rental vehicles, and that there was minimal space at the rear of the property which could be used for storage of rental vehicles. Staff recommended denial of the amended PCD, and recommended that either the applicant remove the sign and paving, and install landscaping in the area as shown on the approved PCD site plan, or seek approval from the Commission for the sign, drive, and landscaping as they are presently located on the site. Rod Baldwin, president of U -Haul of Arkansas, addressed the Commission. He said that the scope of the request was simply to be able to rent trailers or trucks to persons moving in or out of the storage facility as a convenience to these customers. He stated that any stored vehicles would be located at the rear of the property against the rear retaining wall, and he committed to keep only a couple of rental vehicles on the site at any one time. He said that U -Haul has a shuttle service, and any rental vehicles needed or dropped off at the site would be shuttled to and from the main storage location on W. 65th. St. Jack Payne addressed the Commission. He indicated that he had the business immediately to the west of the U -Haul site. He stated that the original PCD site plan provided 3 guest parking spaces in front of the office area, but that the parking is insufficient for the customers who patronize the U -Haul business. He said that, especially around the 1st. and 15th. of the month, when customers are paying their mini - storage rents, that the U -Haul customers do not have sufficient room to park on the U -Haul site, and overflow onto his parking area. He also said that the U -Haul sign is located in the center of the property, and people returning rental trucks evidently have difficulty locating the U -Haul drive, because they pass up the U -Haul drive and turn into his parking area. He complained that U -Haul customers park on his property and walk next door to pay their rent or to complete the paper work to rent or return trucks or trailers. He pointed out that, with the limited parking available at the front of the U -Haul site, if even one or two truck are brought to the site, and are parked or wait at the front of the property, then there will be no customer parking available. He said that he was definitely opposed to the request Mr. Baldwin, responding to Mr. Payne's objection, reported that Mr. Payne operates a competing rental business, renting Ryder 5 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4074 -A trucks and trailers. He stated that Mr. Payne, then, has a vested interest in opposing U -Haul renting trucks and trailers. Commissioner Walker, addressing Mr. Baldwin, indicated that his concern with the application is that there is no room for the additional activity; that U -Haul was not proposing to remove some of the storage units in order to provide the space for truck and trailer storage. He said that the U -Haul operation needed to be able to have sufficient space on the U -Haul site for storage unit customers and for the rental customers, without overflowing onto the adjoining neighbor's property. He asked Mr. Baldwin whether any measures were proposed to provide needed direction to the U -Haul site for customers. Mr. Baldwin acknowledged that the Asher Ave. frontage of the site was small, and that, if U -Haul had developed the site originally, they would have had input into providing a more workable arrangement for traffic. He said, though, that he had never been made aware of the problem with overflow onto Mr. Payne's property. He said that once a storage unit customer has come to the site to rent a unit, and has signed a contact, that there is very little need for these customers to park at the office; that they when they need access to their storage unit, they drive on back to the rear of the property to their storage unit. He said that most storage rental customers are on a credit card charge basis, and do not come to the site to make payments. He said that, at present, the gate to the storage area is open, but that a card access gate is planned to be provided. He said that the only time a truck would be parked at the front, at the office, would be when a truck was being brought in by a customer and was being checked in, or when one was being rented. Staff pointed out the concerns mentioned in the write -up: that no provision had been made in the original PCD for the sign which had been installed, and that the landscaping was not in conformance with the originally approved site plan. Staff also stated that the Fire Department does not want any parking in any of the 20 foot wide drives; that the only available parking is at the rear of the property where there is 30 feet between the rear of the buildings and the rear retaining wall. Staff also cautioned that the retaining wall needs to be protected from damage which might be caused by trucks parallel parking or backing into the wall. Kenny Scott, zoning enforcement supervisor, reported that there is a second ground sign which had been installed and which needs to be removed, and that the landscaping, as originally shown on the site plan, needs to be installed and maintained. Staff explained that, either the applicant needs to seek approval of the signs, as they are presently situated on the property, or 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4074 -A they need to remove these signs. Also, staff explained that, either the applicant needs to seek approval of the size of the landscaped area, as it is, or needs to remove a portion of the driveway and landscape the area as originally approved. Plantings need to be installed and then maintained in the landscaped area, whatever that area is determined to be. Mr. Baldwin responded that U -Haul would amend its request for approval of the signs, as situated on the site, and for approval of the site plan, as it was developed. He said that landscaping in the landscape area in front of the office building would be installed, then maintained. He said that, since he had not been aware of the deviations from the original plan until the last minute, he requested a deferral of further consideration on the request. Staff recommended that the deferral be to the October 18, 1994 Subdivision hearing, and that the applicant bring any proposed changes in the application to the Subdivision Committee for review of the site plan. A motion was made and seconded to approve the deferral of the item until the October 18th. Commission meeting, and the motion passed with the vote of 9 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent, 0 abstentions, and 1 open position. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (OCTOBER 18, 1994) Staff reported that the applicant had notified staff immediately prior to the meeting that there was a new manager for U -Haul; that the manager who had represented U -Haul at the previous meeting was no longer with U -Haul; that the new manager needed time to become familiar with the request and to study the options available; and, that U -Haul requested a deferral of the item until the January 10, 1995 Commission hearing. Staff recommended that the requested deferral be included in the Consent Agenda, but reported that the applicant would need to make the request to the Commission in person; and, that a Bylaws waiver would need to be approved by the Commission, since the request for deferral had not been made at least five (5) days prior to the hearing. Mr. Mike Rose, representing U -Haul, asked the Commission for a deferral of the item until the January 10, 1995 Commission meeting. Mr. Jack Payne, the owner of the Ryder rental business abutting the site to the west, was present, and indicated that, although he was in opposition to the proposed PCD modification, he was not opposed to the deferral. A motion was made and seconded to approve a waiver from the Commission Bylaws which requires a request for deferral be made at least five (5) days 7 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4074 -A prior to a Commission meeting, and the motion was approved with the vote of 10 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent, and 0 abstentions. The item was included in the Consent Agenda for approval of the deferral, and the deferral was approved with the vote of 9 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent, and 1 abstention (Putnam). PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Staff reported that the staff recommendation for denial of the request to add rental of U -Haul trucks to the PCD had not changed, and recommended that the applicant re- instal landscaping at the front of the site to comply with the Landscaping Ordinance. No one was present to represent the applicant. Staff reported that there had been several written and telephone communications between the applicant and various staff persons concerning the application and the landscaping requirements, with discussions concerning the upcoming meeting; therefore, staff felt that the applicant should have know of the date of the hearing on the deferred item. The question was called, and a vote to recommend approval of the Amended PCD failed with the vote of 0 ayes, 11 nays, 0 absent, and 0 abstentions. 0 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: D FILE NO.: Z- 4135 -A NAME: GAINES STREET AND W. 24TH. STREET -- SHORT -FORM PLANNED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT LOCATION: At the northwest corner of S. Gaines St. and W. 24th. St. DEVELOPER: ARCHITECT: GAINES STREET REDEYE 200 W. Capitol Ave., Little Rock, AR 72 372 -5659 AREA: 0.24 ACRES ZONING• R -5 LOPMENT CORP. WILLIAM WIEDOWER Suite 1650 1012 W. 2nd. St. Little Rock, AR 72 375 -8252 NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 PROPOSED USES: Multi- Family Residential PLANNING DISTRICT: 8 CENSUS TRACT: 6 VARIANCES REQUESTED: None STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: The applicant proposes a PRD in order to develop an existing home and outbuilding for multi - family residential use. The applicant proposes to remodel an existing 2 -story residence to create two apartments, one up stairs and one down, and to remodel the existing outbuilding, which has served as a garage, as a separate apartment unit. The applicant states that the organization has purchased two other homes in the same block, and is remodeling these homes to provide two apartments in each structure. The subject property contains the garage structure which is proposed to be remodeled as an apartment, providing three residential uses on the property. The applicant states that the primary residential structure on the site has been used as a multi - family residence for most of its life, and that the developer proposes to convert what is now a number of small units into one unit on each floor. A. PROPOSAL /REQUEST: Review by the Planning Commission and approval by the Board of Directors for the establishment of a PRD is requested. No variances or waivers are requested. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: D (Continued) FILE NO.: Z- 4135 -A B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The site is currently developed. It contains a single primary residential structure, plus an outbuilding which has been used for a garage. The garage structure encroaches approximately 0.6 feet into the alley right -of -way. C. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Public Works comments that: 1) the owner must correct the encroachment of the garage onto the alley right -of -way; 2) alley improvements, involving construction of one -half of a 17 foot pavement width, with a proper apron, will be required; and, 3) the existing sidewalks will be required to be improved and repaired, and handicap access ramps must be installed at the intersection. Water works has no comment on the item. Wastewater comments that a 6" sewer main is located in the alley. Arkansas Power and Light Co. had no comment. Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. approved the submittal without comment. Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal without comment. The Fire Department approved the site plan without comment. Landscape review reports that, with the exception of allowing some flexibility for traffic visibility, a 6 foot high opaque screen is required along the entire northern property line. After parking and vehicular use areas are defined, some perimeter and building landscaping will be required. D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: The Neighborhoods and Planning staff comments that the site plan must be more than a survey of the existing site; it must deal with the proposal for improving the alley and for making the repairs to the existing sidewalks; with parking for residents' vehicles; with landscaping and buffering; etc. Provision for abating the problem of the encroachment of the garage into the alley right -of -way must be made. K January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: D (Continued) FILE NO.: Z- 4135 -A The Planning staff comments that the request is in the Central City Planning District, and the adopted Land Use Plan recommends "Single - Family" uses. The Planning staff questions the desirability of having a multi- family use north of 24th. St. along Gaines. It is noted that the property is zoned R -5. According to Section 36 -259, the requirements for R -5 are: for lot areas of 10,000 square feet to 1 acre, the lot area shall provide a minimum of 2,000 square feet for each dwelling unit. The proposed PRD site is 10,500 square feet, and, with 3 dwellings on the site, the lot area per dwelling unit is 3,500 square feet. E. ANALYSIS: The problem with this proposal is that of the encroachment of the garage building into the alley right -of -way, and the required setback from the rear property line not being met. The use does not appear to be in conflict with the existing zoning, and staff questions the need to proceed with a PRD application. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends that the application be withdrawn. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (NOVEMBER 10, 1994) No one representing the applicant was present, and there was no discussion of the item, except for a brief.description of the request. The Committee forwarded the request to the full Commission for the public hearing. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (NOVEMBER 29, 1994) Staff reported that it has been confirmed that the zoning of the site is R -4, not R -5, as shown on the zoning map included with the agenda and reflected in the write -up. Three dwelling units on the site, then, are not permitted by right in the R -4 zoning district, staff reported, and the applicant has chosen a PRD to get the approval needed. Staff reported that the City Attorney has noted that the issue of the encroachment into the alley by the existing garage building, which is to be remodeled as the third dwelling unit, must be remedied, and that at least a portion of the alley needs to be abandoned. An adequate site plan must be submitted, staff related, which addresses all staff concerns. 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: D (Continued) FILE NO.: Z- 4135 -A No one was present to represent the applicant. A motion was made and seconded to defer the item until the January 10, 1995 hearing dated, and the motion carried with the vote of 7 ayes, 0 nays, 4 absent, and 0 abstentions. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Staff reported that a revised site plan has been submitted, and, except for the 8" encroachment into the alley, all issues are resolved. Staff recommended approval of the PD -R, with the condition that the encroachment into the alley be remedied, either by the applicant petitioning for abandonment of a portion of the alley, or by obtaining a franchise for use of the portion of the alley. The PD -R was approved with the vote of 10 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent, and 0 abstentions. N January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: E FILE NO.: Z- 4422 -B NAME: MARKHAM PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER -- AMENDED SHORT -FORM PLANNED COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT LOCATION: On the south side of W. Markham St., approximately 300 feet west of Meadowbrook Dr. DEVELOPER: Donald Kirk KIRK PROPERTIES 9821A W. Markham St. Little Rock, AR 72205 221 -0303 AREA: 2.28 ACRES ZONING• PCD PLANNING DISTRICT: 2 CENSUS TRACT: 22.05 NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 VARIANCES REQUESTED: None BACKGROUND AND PROPOSAL: PROPOSED USES: Shopping Center A request for a rezoning from C -3 and R -2 was heard by the Planning Commission on April 9, 1985, and a recommendation for approval was forwarded to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors established the PCD on May 7, 1985 in Ordinance No. 14,876. The approved site plan required a fence along the entire length of the west property line, and landscaping along the south and southeast property lines and at the southeast corner of the building. Since the PCD was approved the zoning and use of the property abutting the west property line has changed, and there is C -3 zoning along the north 200 feet ± of the west property line. Over the years, the landscaping has deteriorated along the south property line, and has been removed at the southeast property line and at the southeast corner of the building. The Zoning Enforcement staff notified the applicant that the site is not in conformance with the approved site plan, and the applicant proposes that, in lieu of reinstalling the fence and landscaping according to the approved site plan, he would seek approval: 1) to omit the fence where the site abuts C -3 zoning; 2) to omit the landscaping at the southeast property line and at the southeast corner of the building; and, 3) to leave the existing landscaping along the south property line "as is January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: E (Continued) FILE NO.: Z- 4422 -B The applicant states that owners of property to the west use his property for access to the rear of their buildings; that the telephone company would, if the fence were reinstalled, loose access to their junction box which is immediately west of the property line; and that access to his property to the fire hydrant, which is immediately west of the property line, would be lost. The applicant states that there are large oak trees and pine trees along the south property line which have hampered the growth of the required plantings; that the required plantings have been installed twice, and that they have died both times. The applicant states that due to a drainage problem, the landscape buffer at the southeast property line must be eliminated, and that trucks turning have encroached into this area. The area has, consequently, been paved. The applicant states that, due to trucks turning, the landscape area at the southeast corner of the rear building, has been eliminated. kV 0 C. PROPOSAL /REQUEST: Review by the Planning Commission and approval by the Board of Directors is requested for an amendment to the approved PCD for approval of a revised site plan which eliminates a portion of the fence located along the west property line and eliminates certain landscaping requirements which were required as part of the originally approved site plan. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The site is fully developed. The zoning to the west is C -3. The remainder of the area, to the east, south, and across W. Markham St. to the north, is R -2. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Public Works comments that there are apparently no Public Works issues to resolve. Water Works has no objection to the item. Wastewater comments that sewer is available, and no adverse effect is anticipated. Arkansas Power and Light Co. comments that a 15 foot easement will be required along the west boundary of the site, along the property north -south line at the southeast corner of the tract, and extending northward from this line between the two buildings out to Markham St. 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: E (Continued) FILE NO.: Z- 4422 -B Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. approved the submittal without comment. Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal without comment. The Fire Department comments that all interior driveways must be maintained with a minimum width of 201. Landscape review comments that an 8 foot high wall or wooden fence must be provided around 3 sides of both dumpsters. At the time this site was developed the Landscape Ordinance required a 41 wide landscape strip along the western and eastern site perimeters. Unless a platted access easement is provided along the western driveway area, the western landscape strip will be required by the Landscape Ordinance. Five trees are required in the landscape islands within the parking area, and additional evergreen screening shrubs within the landscape strip along Markham St. are required by the Landscape Ordinance. City Beautiful Commission approval would be required to delete the Landscape Ordinance requirements. D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: The area to the west has developed as a commercial use area, and the fence in the area which abuts the C -3 zoned land is not required at this time. There are landscaping issues to be resolved, as cited above. E. ANALYSIS• The requirements of the current Landscape Ordinance will require installation of landscaping in certain areas, as noted above. The proximity of residential uses to the south and east make proper buffering important. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends deleting the fence requirement property abuts C -3 land, but recommends denial request to leave the site landscaping "as is". recommends that the landscaping be installed as the Landscape Ordinance. K where the of the Staff required by January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: E (Continued) FILE NO.: Z- 4422 -B SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (NOVEMBER 10, 1994) No one was present to represent the applicant. Other than a brief review of the proposal by staff, there was no discussion, and the Committee forwarded the item to the full Commission for the public hearing. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (NOVEMBER 29, 1994) Staff presented the request; however, the applicant nor anyone to represent him was present. A motion was made and seconded to defer the item until the January 10, 1995 hearing dated, and the motion carried with the vote of 8 ayes, 0 nays, 3 absent, and 0 abstentions. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Mr. Donald Kirk, the applicant, was present. Staff outlined the status of the request as being deferred, and noted that the item was brought to the Planning Commission as a result of a Zoning Enforcement action. Staff noted that the landscaping on the site does not comply with the approved site plan, as approved by the Commission when the PCD was established, and that the fence along the west property line which was shown on the original site plan has been removed. Staff recommended that the fence along the west property line not be required to be installed, since the abutting properties are zoned C -3, but recommended that the landscape on the site, especially the buffer along the south and at the southeast property lines, be reinstalled. Mr. Kirk indicated that he would meet with Bob Brown of the Neighborhoods and Planning staff to get the landscaping requirements, and that he would comply with the requirements. Bob Brown, with the Neighborhoods and Planning staff, indicated that there would be a requirement to provide the landscaping buffer along the west property line, as well as to reinstall and upgrade landscaping within the site. A motion was made and seconded to recommend approval of the Amended PCD, with the condition that the landscaping be upgraded as required by Bob Brown, with the Neighborhoods and Planning staff, and the motion carried with the vote of 11 ayes, 0 nays, 0 absent, and 0 abstentions. 4 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: F FILE NO.: Z -5108 NAME: REVOCATION OF MCCRARY -- SHORT -FORM PLANNED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT LOCATION: 1401 S. Pulaski St. DEVELOPER: Carlton McCrary 1401 S. Pulaski St. Little Rock, AR 72202 AREA: 0.16 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 ZONING: PRD APPROVED USES: Single - Family Residence and Research and Development PLANNING DISTRICT: 8 CENSUS TRACT: 7 VARIANCES REQUESTED: None BACKGROUND AND REQUEST: On November 15, 1988, the Planning Commission approved a PRD for the restoration of an unused firehouse structure. The structure contained approximately 3,300 square feet on each of its two floors. The upper level was to be used for the applicant's residence. On the lower level, approximately 40 percent of the area in the former fire equipment garage was to be used for research and development of a "Tag -a -long Stroller ", an invention being developed by the applicant. On January 3, 1989, in Ordinance No. 15,618, the Board of Directors approved the PRD. In June of 1993, a complaint was received that the owner /original applicant in the PRD was repairing automobiles on the PRD site. Subsequent to that, Zoning Enforcement officers noted that the owner, Mr. McCrary, was collecting antique automobiles and restoring them on the property. Cars with dealer tags have been noted. The Zoning Enforcement personnel have a copy of an application for from the Arkansas State Police for a used motor vehicle dealer license for I. I. Inc. /Tony McCrary Motors, located at 1401 S. Pulaski. The license and the accompanying insurance and surety bond are for I. I., Inc., dba Tony McCrary Motors, 1401 S. Pulaski St. The Arkansas State Police inspection report states that the "Place of business is used primarily for the sale of used motor vehicles "; that there is a "sign identifying the business as a used motor vehicle dealership which is legible from the street "; that there is a "telephone number January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: F (Continued) FILE NO.: Z -5108 listed in the name of the business; that the dealer has a license; etc. This report is dated August 12, 1994. Mr. McCrary has been given a warning notice by the Zoning Enforcement Officer and has been notified that the car dealer and repair activity is not in compliance with his approved PRD. He has failed to respond to the communications from the Neighborhoods and Planning staff, except to state that he contests the assertions by the inspector. Staff recommends that the Planning Commission take action to recommend revocation of the PRD to the Board of Directors, and that the zoning of the property revert to its former C-3 status. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (NOVEMBER 10, 1994) No one was present to represent the applicant. Staff reported that Mr. McCrary had been notified that the requested revocation had been placed on the agenda for the November 29, 1994 Planning Commission meeting, and that the Subdivision Committee meeting was to be held on November 10. Staff reviewed the information concerning the apparent violation of the PRD zoning with the Committee members, and the Committee forwarded the item to the full Commission for the public hearing. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (NOVEMBER 29, 1994) Staff presented the request from Zoning Enforcement to revoke the applicant's PRD; however, the applicant nor anyone to represent him was present. A motion was made and seconded to defer the item until the January 10, 1995 hearing dated, and the motion carried with the vote of 7 ayes, 2 nays, 2 absent, and 0 abstentions. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Staff reported that the Zoning Enforcement Division is pursuing enforcement of the alleged violation of the terms of the PRD in Municipal Court, and staff recommended that the item be deferred to the February 21, 1995 Planning Commission agenda, pending the outcome of the Court hearing. The deferral was approved with the vote of 10 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent, and 0 abstentions. 2 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: G Z -5920 Owner: Applicant: Location: Request: Purpose: Size: Existing Use: Charles Swinson Mrs. D. Binns 2013 So. Van Buren To grant a Special Use Permit Day care family home (6 -10 children) 0.16 acres Single - Family SURROUNDING LAND USE AND ZONING North - Single - Family, zoned R -3 South - Single - Family, zoned R -3 East - Single - Family, zoned R -3 West - Single - Family, zoned R -3 STAFF ANALYSIS The request for 2013 So. Van Buren is to grant a special use permit to allow a day care family home. The zoning ordinance definition of a day care family home is: Any facility which provides child care in a family setting within a care giver's family residence in accordance with provisions of licensing procedures established by the State of Arkansas. This use is intended to fill that level of child care between unregulated baby- sitting and day care center. The breakdown of the different levels of child care is as follows: baby- sitting - 1 to 5 day care family home - 6 to 10 day care center - 11 or more Also, Section 36- 54(e) is the development criteria for special use permits and it lists 5 for a day care family home. The 5 points are: January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: G Z -5920 (Cont.) This use may be located only in a single family home, occupied by the care giver. Must be operated within licensing procedures established by the State of Arkansas. The use is limited to ten (10) children including the care givers. The minimum to qualify for special use permit is six (6) children from households other than the care givers. This use must obtain a special use permit in all districts where day care centers are not allowed by right. (Other uses requiring a special use permit are bed and breakfast hotels and family care facilities.) 2013 So. Van Buren is a typical residential lot, with a single family residence on it. The applicant has indicated that she has had as many as 8 children at one time and she anticipates that eight will be the maximum in the future. (This issue is before the Planning Commission because of an enforcement action by the city. It is unclear whether a complaint was made or a code officer just came across the use.) Based on comments made by the applicant, she is licensed by the state to keep up to 10 children. The caregiver (the applicant) does reside at 2013 So. Van Buren and the property owner is aware of the request for a special use permit. The issues that the city needs to be concerned with include the safety of the children and potential impact on the neighborhood. Safety does not appear to be an issue because there is an adequate drop -off point which does not interfere with the traffic flow on So. Van Buren, a minor residential street. Also, the rear yard is used for the play area and it is fenced. Staff's position is that this type of day care is compatible with a single family neighborhood and we support the special use permit. The use should not create any problems for the surrounding properties. ENGINEERING COMMENTS There are none to be reported. 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: G Z -5920 (Cont.) STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends approval of the special use permit for 2013 So. Van Buren. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 13, 1994) Staff reported that the request needed to be deferred because the applicant had not notified all the required property owners. As part of the Consent Agenda, the item was deferred to the January 10, 1995 hearing. The vote was 9 ayes, 0 nays and 2 absent. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) The applicant was present. There were no objectors, and the item was placed on Consent Agenda. As part of the Consent Agenda, the Commission voted to approve the special use permit for 2013 So. Van Buren. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 nays and 1 absent. Q January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: H FILE NO.: Z -5906 NAME: LOCATION: Alltel Cellular Tower - Southedge Drive Site Conditional Use Permit 1100 Southedge Drive OWNERAAPPLICANT: Alltel Mobile Communications of Arkansas by Tracy Gill PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the construction of a 100 foot tall, monopole cellular tower on this MF -24 zoned property. Associated with the tower is an unmanned 28 foot by 17 foot equipment shelter. ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS: 1. Site Location The property is located on the north side of Southedge Drive, one block north of Rodney Parham Road and directly west of the Spring Meadows Apartment Complex. 2. Compatibility with Neighborhood The proposed tower site is in an area of mixed zoning and uses located along the north side of Rodney Parham Road. The properties fronting onto Rodney Parham are primarily zoned C -3 and contain a variety of commercial uses. Behind these, and separating them from the single - family residential neighborhood to the north, is an area of multifamily zoning containing several apartment complexes. The proposed tower site is shielded from the residential neighborhood to the north by an apartment complex. The Treasure Hill neighborhood, to the south, is separated from the tower site by the commercial development on Rodney Parham. The proposed 100 foot tower should not have a negative impact on the adjacent neighborhoods. 3. On -Site Drives and Parking The site will be reached by a 15 foot access easement off of Southedge Drive. Parking is provided at the tower site for the service technician who will occasionally visit the site for maintenance purposes. No other on -site parking is required. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO • H (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5906 4. Screening and Buffers The base of the tower site will be enclosed by an 8 foot tall, wood privacy fence. Where adjacent to the apartment complex, the tower site and parking space will be further screened by planting 5 foot tall, evergreen shrubs. 5. City Engineer Comments Access to the site must be taken through Lot 10, which is occupied by the apartment complex. No new driveway will be allowed onto Southedge Drive at this point. 6. Utility Comments Little Rock Wastewater Utility reports a sewer main extension with easements will be required if sewer service is necessary. The Fire Department requires the driveway to be a minimum of 20 feet wide. The site only has a 15 foot access easement to Southedge Drive. 7. Analysis The applicant requests a conditional use permit to allow for the construction of a 100 foot tall, monopole tower on this MF -24 zoned site. The proposed tower site is shielded somewhat from the nearest single - family neighborhoods by a two -story apartment complex and by commercial development along Rodney Parham Road. Staff feels that the proposed 100 foot tower is a reasonable use for this site and is supportive of the request, however one important issue must be resolved prior to the Planning Commission acting on this matter. During the initial review of this application, it became apparent that the small piece of property on which the tower lease area is located was illegally subdivided from the larger property on which the apartment complex is located. This was later confirmed by the applicant. In light of this development, appropriate to defer action on subdivision issue is resolved. 8. Staff Recommendation staff feels that it would be the proposed tower until the Staff recommends deferral of this item until the property is properly subdivided. 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: H (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5906 SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (NOVEMBER 10, 1994) The applicant was not present. Staff presented the item and informed the Committee that the applicant had requested a deferral to the January 10, 1995 commission meeting. A subdivision application will be filed for that same meeting. The Committee determined there were no other outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (NOVEMBER 29, 1994) The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed the Commission that the applicant had requested a deferral to the January 10, 1995 commission meeting in order to address the subdivision issue. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved for deferral to the January 10, 1995 Planning Commission meeting. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed the Commission that the applicant had requested a second deferral, this time to the February 21, 1995 commission meeting. The applicant is continuing work to resolve the subdivision issue. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda deferral to the February 21, 1995 Planning The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. r and approved for Commission meeting. January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: I FILE NO.: Z -5909 NAME: LOCATION• Sears Accessory Dwelling - Conditional Use Permit 1219 N. Tyler Street OWNER /APPLICANT: Jerry Sears PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow the conversion of the upstairs of an existing, two -story accessory structure into an accessory dwelling. The property is zoned R -2. A variance is requested to allow an accessory dwelling greater than 700 square feet in area. The existing structure has 780± square feet on each floor. ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS: 1. Site Location The property is located on the east side of North Tyler Street, one block south of its intersection with ° °L"° Street. 2. Compatibility with Neighborhood The subject property is located in a predominately single - family residential neighborhood. The site contains a single- family dwelling and a large, two - story accessory building. The lower level of the accessory building contains a two -car garage and the upper level is currently used as storage. The proposal to convert the upper story of the existing accessory building into an accessory dwelling will not involve any expansion of the structure and will, for all intents and purposes, not be a noticeable change in the property. The proposed accessory dwelling should be compatible with the neighborhood. 3. On -Site Drives and Parking The principal dwelling and the proposed accessory dwelling require one on -site parking space each. There is a two car January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO • I (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5909 garage beneath the proposed accessory dwelling and a two car driveway, taking access off of the alley. 4. Screening and Buffers No additional screening or buffering are required for this single- family residential property. 5. City Engineer Comments No comments 6. Utility Comments No comments 7. Analysis The applicant proposes to convert the upper floor of an existing, two story accessory structure into an accessory dwelling. The lower floor will continue to be used as a two car garage. The upper floor contains a total area of 780± square feet, 80± square feet more than the Ordinance prescribes as the maximum floor area for an accessory dwelling. The proposal involves an e sufficient on -site parking Two story construction for if the lower floor is used the proposal is reasonable on adjacent properties. 8. Staff Recommendation xisting structure and there is to meet ordinance requirements. accessory dwellings is permitted as a garage. Staff feels that and should have a minimal impact Staff recommends approval of the conditional use permit and of the variance to use the existing 780t square feet on the second floor as an accessory dwelling. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (NOVEMBER 10, 1994) The applicant was not present. Staff presented the item and noted the requested area variance. The Committee agreed that there were no outstanding issues since the structure was already in existence and there was adequate parking. The Committee then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final resolution. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (NOVEMBER 29, 1994) 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO • I (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5909 The applicant, Jerry Sears, was present. There was opposition present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval. Hunter Stewart addressed the Commission on behalf of Mr. Sears. He offered no comments at the time but stated he would redress any comments made by those in opposition. Jean Miller, of 5315 "L'° Street, spoke in opposition to the proposed accessory dwelling. She stated that she was concerned that this accessory dwelling could set a precedent resulting in increased traffic and transient activity in the neighborhood. She presented a petition signed by neighbors opposed to the accessory dwelling. Mr. Stewart stated that Mr. Sears bought the property in 1990 and that the upstairs had already been framed out for a dwelling. He pointed out that there are other non - single family uses in the area. Mr. Stewart stated that the required parking was being provided for both the existing home and the proposed accessory dwelling. Commissioner Willis asked if Mr. Sears planned to live in one of the homes. Mr. Stewart responded that Mr. Sears would occupy the accessory dwelling and his mother would occupy the principal dwelling. Mr. Stewart also stated that Mr. Sears had no plans to put separate meters on the accessory dwelling. Commissioner Walker asked if the neighbors were opposed to the second dwelling or concerned about who would occupy it. Ms. Miller responded that she was concerned that Mr. Sears might sell the property and that the new owners would rent the accessory dwelling. After further discussion, Commissioner Rahman stated that there were other accessory dwellings in the neighborhood and that they had apparently created no problems. Further discussion then followed concerning the occupancy of the accessory dwelling. Commissioner Putnam stated that the structure had been in place for several years and that the proposed use should have a minimal impact on neighbors. The question was called and a vote was taken. The vote was 4 ayes, 4 noes, 2 absent and 1 abstaining (McCarthy). The lack of 6 votes for or against the proposal resulted in the item being deferred to the January 10, 1995 commission meeting. 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: I (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5909 A motion was made to expunge the vote. The motion failed by a vote of 1 aye, 8 noes and 2 absent. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Hunter Stewart was present representing the applicant. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and informed the Commission that this item had been deferred from the November 29, 1994 meeting due to a lack of 6 votes for or against the item at that meeting. Mr. Stewart addressed the Commission. He gave a brief history of Mr. Sears' efforts to remodel the structure as an accessory dwelling. He stated that the City had issued Mr. Sears building, plumbing and electrical permits to finish out the structure as an accessory dwelling and only at the last minute was Mr. Sears informed that he could not use the structure as he desired. Mr. Stewart stated that $15,000 had been spent on remodeling the structure as a dwelling. Mr. Stewart concluded by stating that the proposed accessory dwelling would not be incompatible with the neighborhood and that there were several other accessory dwellings in the area. Commissioner Adcock asked staff how many neighborhood residents had signed the petition of opposition which had been presented at the November 29, 1994 meeting. Staff responded that there were 15 signatures on the petition. Commissioner Woods asked who would occupy the accessory dwelling. Mr. Stewart responded that Mr. Sears would occupy the accessory dwelling and Mr. Sears' mother would occupy the principal dwelling. Mr. Stewart stated that the accessory dwelling would not have separate utility meters and that the accessory dwelling would become a guesthouse in the event Mr. Sears' mother moves. Commissioner Willis asked if the applicant would agree to the condition that the accessory dwelling is not to have separate utility meters. Mr. Stewart responded that the applicant would agree to that condition. Commissioner Adcock asked if that condition would be passed on to subsequent owners of the property. Steve Giles, of the City Attorney's Office, responded that the condition was attached to the property, regardless of the ownership. A vote was then taken on the item with the added condition that the accessory dwelling is not to have separate utility meters. The vote was 10 ayes, 1 noe and 0 absent. 4 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 1 FILE NO.: 5 -24 -AAA NAME: LEATRICE ANN SUBDIVISION -- PRELIMINARY PLAT LOCATION: Beyond the present end of Beckingham Road, Huntleigh Dr., and Westport Loop. DEVELOPER: A. S. ROSEN AND ASSOCIATES 9101 Rodney Parham Little Rock, AR 72205 223 -0647 AREA: 22 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: ENGINEER: WHITE- DATERS & ASSOCIATES, INC. 401 S. Victory St. Little Rock, AR 72201 364 -1666 83 FT. NEW STREET: 2,937.5 ZONING: R -2 PROPOSED USES: Single - Family Residential PLANNING DISTRICT: 19 CENSUS TRACT: 42.06 VARIANCES REQUESTED: None STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: The applicant proposes a revised preliminary plat for a 22 -acre tract which is in an area for which a preliminary plat was previously approved, known as West Port Subdivision; West Port Subdivision being in an area which was, prior to that, included in a preliminary plat known as Hillsboro, Phase IX. The new subdivision, Leatrice Ann subdivision, proposes to increase the density of the area from 62 lots to 83, but the street layout is to stay substantially as proposed and approved in the West Port Subdivision preliminary plat. (The applicant notes that clearing and grading for the streets and placing of some of the utilities were undertaken in the past according to the originally approved layout, and it is more feasible to work with the layout on which construction was begun than to propose a revised layout. Lots which were, in the West Port Subdivision, 90 and 100 feet in width have, in the Leatrice Ann layout, been decreased to 60 and 65 feet.) The total length of new streets to be constructed in the plat remains as was originally approved at 2937.5 feet. The area is zoned R -2, and the applicant proposes that homes in Leatrice Ann subdivision are to have a minimum floor area of 1,800 square feet for single -story dwellings and 2,000 square feet for two -story homes. No variances are requested. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S -24 -AAA A. PROPOSAL /REQUEST: Planning Commission approval of a preliminary plat for Leatrice Ann subdivision is requested. No variances are requested. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The site is undeveloped and heavily wooded. There are perhaps parts of two lots which are fairly level; however, the majority of the area is extremely hilly, with grades predominantly ranging from 12 to 26 percent. The current zoning of the area is R -2. C. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Public Works comments that: 1) the grades indicated on the streets exceed the maximum permitted by Code; 2) Sidewalks will be required on Westport Loop, but are not shown on the plat; 3) a sketch grading and drainage plan, meeting the requirements of Sec. 29 -186, is required; a grading permit will be required; 4) street plans, stormwater detention, and boundary survey requirements will be required; and, 5) the area designated as a private drive must be widened to 24 feet; provide a minimum 10 foot radii at the private drive and the street interface. Water Works reports that, in addition to the normal charges, an acreage charge of $300 per acre applies in this area. Water main extensions will be required. Each lot obtaining service must have a minimum of 20 feet of frontage on the right -of -way from which it is served, or a private street must be approved by the Planning Commission. Wastewater comments that sewer main extensions, with easements, will be required. Arkansas Power and Light Co. will require easements at the boundary of the subdivision and at a number of internal lot lines. Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. approved the submittal without comment. Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. will require easements. The Fire Department approved the preliminary plat without comment. E January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5 -24 -AAA D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: Sec. 31 -87 of the Subdivision Regulations require the application to provide the following information which has not been noted: the type of the subdivision being proposed; the name and address of the owner of record, and the source of title of the ownership; any existing and proposed covenants and restrictions; the average size of lots and the minimum lot size; and the source of water supply and the means of wastewater proposed. Sec. 31 -89 of the Subdivision Regulation requires the preliminary plat to provide the following information which has not been shown: the names of recorded subdivisions abutting the proposed subdivision, with the plat book and page number or instrument number; the names of owners of unplatted tracts abutting the proposed subdivision, and the names of all owners of platted tracts in excess of 2 1/2 acres; the zoning classifications within the plat and of abutting areas; and the location of proposed PAGIS monuments. Sections. 31 -367 through 31 -376 of the Subdivision Regulations requires that, when areas of a plat have an average grade of 18% or greater, the Hillside regulations are applicable. This requires, among other things, larger lot sizes. An analysis of the subdivision for the applicability of these standards has not been supplied. It is noted that eight lots on the north side of Westport Loop are shown to face a private drive, and that two lots at the north end of the Huntleigh Ct. cul -de -sac show access easements for their access to the cul -de -sac. water works indicates that, for lots to receive water service, each lot obtaining service must have a minimum of 20 feet of frontage on the right -of -way from which it is served, or, alternatively, the Planning Commission may approve a private street to serve the lots. Sec. 31 -;231 of the Subdivision Regulations provides that: "Every lot shall abut upon a public street, except where private streets are explicitly approved by the Planning Commission." Sec. 31 -207 states: "Private streets may be approved by the Planning Commission.... The design standards shall conform to public street standards.... Private streets are permissible only in the form of cull -de -sac and short loop streets, and only when ... these streets can be adequately served by all public service vehicles ....'° The application must include a request of the Commission that a private street be allowed, or the plat must be re- designed to provide public streets to serve all lots. The lots off the north end of the Huntleigh Ct. cul -de -sac must either be shown as pipestem lots (for 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S -24 -AAA the required frontage on the right -of -way), or the area must be re- designed so that each lot has the required frontage on the public street. (In the R -2 zoning district, the minimum frontage for lots is 60 feet, pursuant to Sec. 36 -254 of the zoning Regulations.) Sec. 31- 232(8) states that pipestem lots are prohibited in residential subdivisions; therefore, either the design for the area must be changed to eliminate the suggested pipestem lots, or a waiver of the prohibition on pipestem lots must be sought. Such a waiver must be approved by the Board of Directors. Section 31- 231(b) states: "No residential lot shall be more than three (3) times as deep as it is wide. There are four lots to the east of the Beckingham Rd. extension which exceed this limitation. Either the lots must be made wider so that the ratio is maintained, or, alternatively, the depth of the lots could be shortened, and the remaining area to the west shown as a "Tract ", the maintenance of which would have to be provided for in the Bill of Assurance. The private drive for access to the rear of eight of the lots on the north side of Westport Loop is extremely narrow and steep. Sanitation trucks may not, as the drive is designed, be able to use the private drive for garbage pick- up. Public works suggests that the "T" design be changed to a loop design, and that the radii at intersections be minimums of 20 feet. E. ANALYSIS• An analysis of the area pursuant to the Hillside regulations has not been provided, therefore, staff is unable to determine the maximum number of lots permitted in the area, nor the minimum size of lots which will be necessary to meet the requirements. From reviewing the contours provided on the plat, even without the Hillside regulations analysis, it can be presumed that much of the area will fall under the Hillside regulations, and that these regulations will require 10,000 square foot minimum lot sizes. The plat, then, proposes too many lots and lots which are too small. The applicant requests no waivers or variances; yet, the design will require waivers from the pipestem lot restriction, or a re- design; a variance from the requirement that lots be no more than three times as deep as they are wide, or a re- design; and, a variance from the Commission to permit a private street to serve a number of the lots. 4 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5 -24 -AAA F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends that the public hearing on this item be deferred until the required information is provided and a new plat has been submitted, then reviewed by the various utilities and departments and the Subdivision Committee. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) Mr. Tim Daters, with White - Daters & Associates, was present. Staff outlined the request and reviewed with Mr. Daters the comments contained in the discussion outline. The comment regarding the requirement for an analysis of the plat area for conformance with the Hillside provisions of the Subdivision Regulations was discussed. Mr. Daters reported that the area proposed to be platted had previously been proposed as a preliminary plat with substantially larger lots; that the location of the streets and some of the lot lines was set due to some of the utilities already being in place. Staff indicted that much of the area will have to conform to the Hillside regulations, which will require a minimum lot size of at least 10,000 square feet; therefore, at least some of the lots which are proposed are too small. Mr. Daters responded that he may delete the area affected by the Hillside regulations from the current application, and leave the area which is not affected by these regulations in the current preliminary plat application, allowing him time to do the required Hillside regulations analysis. The Public Works staff indicated that it would be better for garbage truck access to the steep lots if the common access drive made a loop, instead of a °'T ". The Neighborhoods and Planning staff related that, if a private street system is proposed to serve the lots off Westport Loop, then the applicant must specifically request approval by the Planning Commission for the private street. It was also noted that the lots must be served by a private street, meeting the requirements for a street® and not be a private drive. It was noted that the lots at the end of the Huntleigh Ct. cul -de -sac could not be served with private drives; that, if the configuration of the lots were not changed, then pipestem lots would be required, and that a waiver of the pipestem lot restriction would have to be requested and approved. The Subdivision Committee members confirmed with Mr. Daters that the revised information would be forthcoming, and that all deficiencies noted in the discussion would be remedied. The Committee forwarded the item to the Commission for the public hearing. 5 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5 -24 -AAA PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Mr. Tim Daters, with White- Daters & Associates, Inc., representing the applicant, asked that the item be deferred until the Planning Commission meeting of February 21, 1995. He indicated that, by that time, the applicant would be ready to proceed, or the item would be withdrawn. Dr. A. J. Zolten submitted a petition containing the names of persons who are in opposition to the proposed re- platting of the site. He spoke in opposition to the proposed re -plat, saying that the property owners in the Westport Subdivision had bought their lots with the developer's assurance that the area now being developed as Leatrice Ann Subdivision would be developed as part of Westport Subdivision, and would be under the Bill of Assurance of Westport Subdivision. He supported the applicant's request for a deferral, and indicated that the neighboring property owners needed time to meet with the Leatrice Ann developers. Steve Giles, Deputy City Attorney, explained that the area encompassed by the Leatrice Ann Subdivision is not part of an area covered by an existing Bill of Assurance, and that the Bill of Assurance for Westport Subdivision did not govern the type development in the Leatrice Ann area. He explained that, as long as a proposed subdivision meets the City Subdivision and Zoning regulations, the Planning Commission cannot deny approval because of considerations for whether the lot or dwelling sizes may not be compatible with the other development in the area. A motion was made and seconded to defer the hearing of the item until the February 21, 1995 Commission meeting, and the motion carried with the vote of 11 ayes, 0 nays, 0 absent, and 0 abstentions. 2 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 2 FILE NO.: Z -5936 NAME: THE VILLAGE AT CHENAL -- LONG -FORM PLANNED COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT LOCATION: On the west side of Chenal Parkway, approximately 0.75 mile north of the Kanis Road intersection. DEVELOPER: ENGINEER: Jack McCray Joe White DELTIC FARM AND TIMER CO., INC. WHITE- DATERS & ASSOCIATES, INC. #7 Chenal Club Circle 401 S. Victory St. Little Rock, AR 72211 Little Rock, AR 72201 821 -5555 374 -1666 AREA: 138.4 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 80 FT. NEW STREET: 20,000 ZONING• C -2 & R -2 PLANNING DISTRICT: 19 CENSUS TRACT: 42.02 VARIANCES REQUESTED: STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: PROPOSED USES: None Mixed uses including Commercial, Office, and Residential uses The developer states that European style villages and neighborhoods in early American cities fostered a quality of life which the low- density suburban sprawl prevalent in America today has failed to sustain, and, as a consequence, America has lost its sense of community. The design of The Village at Chenal, maintains the applicant, applies leading -edge concepts in Community planning aimed at reversing this condition and reestablishing a village where a real sense of community can flourish. The developer proposes a PCD where a mixture of residential, commercial, office, and civic uses co -exist in a village setting. The site is a 138 -acre tract, with 80.6 acres planned to be developed for single- family uses, 14.0 acres for multi - family, and 43.5 acres for retail, office, and civic. The proposed uses constitute over 1 million square feet of building areas, exclusive of the building areas of single - family dwellings. Development of the PCD is proposed to progress in 2 principal phases, with development beginning in the area west of the future outer loop which bisects the site, and involves about 1/4 million square feet of multi - family, retail - office, and civic building January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5936 area. Development is scheduled to begin with construction around the village center with, initially, service and civic uses. The developer cites ten principles of "The New American Village ": 1) convenience; 2) privacy; 3) security; 4) identity/ individuality; 5) visual pleasure; 6) ecological soundness; 7) affordability; 8) inclusiveness of age; 9) social enjoyment; and, 10) economic feasibility. There are, states the developer, ten elements of "The New American Village ": 1) main street or community focal point; 2) landmarks; 3) walkability; 4) gathering places or civic buildings; 5) linkages between residential and activity centers; linkages between villages and larger context; 6) historical and regional references in plan, layout, and architectures; 7) distinct edge or boundary; 8) narrower streets; 9) new zoning and subdivision standards; and, 10) integration of land uses. There are, continues the developer, qualities which are shared by communities which are successful: 1) The layout must be based on comfortable, feasible walking distances between housing, shops, schools, community services, recreation, jobs, etc. Walking brings people closer to and more in contact with their physical environment, and, this promotes interest in and respect for the village. 2) Villages have a community focus (i.e., a village green, a commons, a mixed use core, a cross - roads, etc.) as a defining architectural element. The core should provide basic employment, shopping, and a mass transit hub. 3) Streets in villages should promote walkability by offering a variety of multiple routes to destinations, and by providing wide streets with street trees and parallel parking to act as a buffer between the pedestrian and moving traffic. Streets should also be created with the convenience of users of the private automobile in mine, and the street network not only provides multiple and alternate routs for pedestrians, but for automobiles. 4) Villages should be composed of buildings with a variety of footprints, heights, and scale, and should contain a wide range of residential sizes and types which are affordable by a wide range of age and income groups, Village are strengthened by economic, social, and age diversity. 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5936 5) Villages have a mix of uses, with mixed uses occurring both horizontally, in adjacent buildings, and vertically, with residences or offices above shops. Villages contain a well - proportioned balance of jobs to housing, housing to recreation, housing to retail, and housing to civic and social uses. Buildings that contain uses other than residential uses are located primarily in the community core. 6) Villages make use of a distinct design "vocabulary "; e.g., they use common materials, colors, and building design relationships. Variation within the "vocabulary" gives richness and charter. 7) Maintenance is a priority in village living. Public and community lands and facilities must be maintained to preserve the quality and charter of the place. The physical development of the PCD is in a "conceptual" stage at this point. The location and design of perimeter streets and the bisecting outer loop can be fixed. Beyond this, a general scheme for uses areas and street configuration is proposed. The developer proposes approval of a "conceptual" PCD at this time, and then, as use areas are defined and the concept is firmed up, the developer proposes to submit amended PCD applications for approval. The developer requests, from the outset, however, an understanding on the widths of rights -of -way and streets which will be required for the internal street system, since maintaining street designs which conform to the concept of "The New American Village,, is overriding. A. PROPOSAWREQUEST: Review by the Planning Commission and approval by the Board of Directors is requested for a "conceptual" PCD. Approval by staff and the Commission, and, if necessary, approval by the Board of Directors is sought for street standards for internal streets which are in conformance with the design criteria of "The New American Village ", with narrower right -of -way and street widths, reduced distances between access points and intersections, and angles between intersecting streets which are less than current Ordinance standards. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The site is currently undeveloped and heavily wooded. The terrain is hilly. The site is bounded on the east by Chenal Parkway. 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5936 The existing zoning includes areas which are zoned MF -18, 0-2, and C -2. C. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Public Works comments that the following are major deficiencies in the application: 1) the submittal plan does not provide adequate information for review of the plans conformance to the Master Street Plan; the driveways appear out of conformity with the Ordinance; 2) there is no drainage information provided, making it impossible to review the plans for conformance with the stormwater and detention regulations; 3) the lack of contours eliminates the possibility of judging cut and fill requirements; 4) a sketch grading and drainage plan, meeting the requirements of Sec. 29 -186, is required before construction; a grading permit is required, and ADPC &E must be contacted for their approval prior to starting work. Traffic Engineering comments that: 1) trip generation volumes must be provided to insure interior streets and intersections will handle projected traffic volumes; 2) widths of street sections must be shown; 3) curve data and tangent distances must be shown, and must be in compliance with the Master Street Plan; and, 4) the internal street system should not have parking backing into the traffic stream. Water Works reports that, in addition to the normal charges, an acreage charge of $300 per acre applies in this area. Water Main extensions and on -site fire protection will be required. Wastewater comments that sewer main extensions, with easements, will be required. Capacity contributions will be required. Capacity Contribution fees will be required for multi- family construction. The Fire Department comments that wider turning radii should be provided at all interior streets. The Fire Department notes that, with proposed street widths of 201, it will be next to impossible to get fire equipment into the area. The Fire Department notes that "No Parking; Tow - Away" signs are to be placed along all designated streets to prohibit on- street parking. Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. approved the submittal without comment. Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal without comment. 4 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5936 Landscape review notes that the areas set aside for buffers around the perimeter of the site meet Ordinance requirements. Areas set aside within the interior of the site for landscaping appear to meet the Landscape Ordinance requirements. Screening and many of the buffers within the site itself, that would normally be required, are absent. The Planning Division staff comments that the site is in the Chenal District. The adopted plan recommends community shopping, neighborhood shopping, multi - family and public/ institutional. The proposal maintains most of these uses while altering the mix and location. Staff is aware the applicant is attempting to address desires raised by planning efforts of Metroplan, and staff wishes to be supportive of attempts to try new theories; however, all issues must be carefully and thoroughly reviewed and considered before approval. D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: Section 36 -456 of the Zoning Regulations requires the following information to be furnished, which has not been submitted to date: a topographic cross section; a schematic landscaping plan and the proposed treatment of perimeters of the property; dimensions of structures and the dimensions between buildings and of building distances from property lines; contours; a legal description of the area; and a preliminary plat of the proposed development area. These item will be furnished as amended PCD site plan are submitted, and can be deferred until that time. A complete legal description, however, must be furnished in order to write the ordinance establishing the PCD. Sections 31 -171 through 31 -209 establish design standards for developments which require, among other things, conformance with the Master Street Plan requirements for right -of -way widths, street section designs, and sidewalks. The proposed street layout does not necessarily conform to these standards, but, instead, attempts to recapture a village concept where rights -of -way and streets are narrower and pedestrian traffic is encouraged. Ordinance No. 16,577 requires that access points to sites are to be a minimum or 100 feet from the right -of -way of intersecting streets, and requires common driveway points on lots which are less than 300 feet of frontage. The proposed street system does not necessarily conform to these standards, since design of the PCD site is governed by the concepts of creating "The New American Village ". 5 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO • Z -5936 E. ANALYSIS• The book Site Planning and Community Design for Great Neighborhoods, by Frederick D. Jarvis, is only one of many publication promoting a re- thinking of the design of communities, neighborhoods, and cities, and proposing new models for the creation of more livable communities that are both economically feasible and responsive to growing environmental concerns. The applicant's concept is described in Jarvis' book in his section on "Neotraditional Town and Pedestrian Pockets ", and Jarvis indicates that this is an example of new models that are being tested in the early 1990's. The Planning Division staff has some concerns about particular elements of the proposal, and believe more detailed discussions and plans are needed about the following: 1) the single family use along La Grand Drive; 2) the characteristics, mix and delivery, and the means of waste disposal for the large retail complex; 3) the "need" for large footprint commercial- grocery, department store, etc.; 4) the physical division which the "West Loop" makes and how this will be addressed; 5) the lack of parking facilities for the Community Center; 6) the addressing of the issues of the integration of public transportation; 7) the issue of the public uses which should be given to the appropriate public agency or removed from the plan; and, 8) the integration of pedestrian and vehicular access of the outlying single family into the development should be addressed. The Planning Division staff continues that land use issues have impacts on the long term developability of the immediate area as well as surrounding areas. Staff believes that if the issues raised are properly addressed, than the proposal could work within the existing adopted city land use plan. The proposal is a "conceptual" PCD, and there must be a firm understanding that, as specific areas are developed, the PCD will be amended, and subsequent drawings will be reviewed for conformance with regulations. The current review is for the "concept" only. An agreement with the developer for conformance with the Master Street Plan requirements for boundary streets will be necessary with the approval of the "conceptual PCD"; however, as amended PCD applications are presented, the internal street system will be required to comply with Master Street Plan requirements, or the application will RI January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5936 have to seek waivers or variances of these requirements from the Board of Directors. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends approval of the "conceptual" PCD, subject to the boundary streets conforming to the Master Street Plan requirements and to the requirements of Ordinance No. 16,577. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) Mr. Jack McCray and Mr. Joe White were present. Staff presented the request, and Mr. McCray and Mr. White reviewed the application with the Committee members. Mr. McCray made a presentation on the concept of "The New American Village" and of the proposed Village at Chenal. The City Engineering staff expressed concerns regarding the proposed street system, and insisted that it be understood that, until engineering drawings showing the design of the various streets, it was withholding approval of boundary and internal street designs. Mr. White indicated that it would be necessary to seek approval from the Board of Directors for the proposed street design, if it is determined that the proposed design is in conflict with City standards. The Committee forwarded the item to the full Commission for the public hearing. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Mr. Jack McCray, the Real Estate manager with Deltic Farm and Timber Co., the applicant, and Mr. Joe White, with White - Daters & Associates, Inc., were present. Mr. McCray indicated that the proposed development is the commercial component to the Chenal Valley development which has been under way for several years, and that the approach which has been chosen for this commercial component is characterized as a "village" concept. "Gathering" places will be created, he explained, which will encourage pedestrian traffic and reduce vehicular traffic. He indicated that the first phase of the proposed development is to be located on the west side of the future west loop street, and will involve approximately 140 acres, of which about 75% is to be devoted to single - family dwelling sites. The remaining 25% is to be developed for retail, office, and civic uses. He explained that the request is for approval of a "concept ", specifically, the "village" concept, with more specific plans and uses to be submitted as development progresses in specific sites. Approval of the "village" concept would, he added, necessitate approval of the street "grid' which is shown on the development plan, and the street and right -of -way A January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5936 widths which are narrower than the Master Street Plan now permits. Ms. Ruth Bell, representing the League of Women Voters of Pulaski County, spoke in support of the application. She said that the City should give the developer the chance to try the concept to see if, indeed, it will work. Bill Henry, the manager for traffic engineering with the Public Works Department, expressed concern over approval of the street layout and right -of -way and street widths which the developer proposed. He said that the layout of the streets does not meet standard traffic engineering principals, as far as some traffic safety issues are concerned. The alignments of some of the intersections do not meet safety standards, he stated. He suggested that the "concept" of the PCD be approved, but discouraged the approval of the street layout and the rights -of- way and street widths which do not meet the Master Street Plan requirements. Mr. McCray responded that, in order to proceed with the design and marketing of the project, the approval of the proposed street layout and right -of -way and street widths must be established at the outset. Mr. Henry expressed concerns regarding the safety, as well as the accessibility, of the site, with the street widths being less than standard engineering practices and the Master Street Plan provide. Mr. McCray responded that the "Neo- Traditional Village" with its "pedestrian pockets" necessitates the narrower street system; the concept of the village is dependent upon these being approved in order to promote the "pedestrian friendly" environment. The developer, he stated, does not intend to build a system which is unsafe or inaccessible; the developer, he states, would accommodate the concerns of the Fire Department and of Public Works. In the retail areas, he continued, a system of rear private access ways would be provided for delivery trucks, so that delivery trucks will not be double - parked in the streets. He indicated that the angle of intersecting streets, about which Public Works has noted a concern previously, had been addressed, with the angle being adjusted at the intersection. He said that the public transportation system would have a centralized "gathering" point for riders, and that busses would not be traveling along the narrow residential or commercial streets. He related that the village concept is being implemented in cities across the country, and that the concept is being implemented successfully. Mr. White added that the older part of downtown Little Rock has many 36 foot wide streets which have parking along both sides of January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5936 the street; that this concept for street widths is a 70 -80 year old concept to which city planners wish to return in order to re- achieve a pedestrian friendly village. The narrower streets promote slower traffic; the wider streets promote faster traffic, he said, and the slower traffic is the desired effect. David Scherer, with the Public Works staff, reminded the Commission that the developer is seeking approval of the streets as public streets, not private streets, and that any variance from the Master Street Plan standards will necessitate Board of Directors approval. Jim Lawson, Interim Assistant City Manager, spoke, and urged the Commission to approve the conceptual PCD. He said that the concept is being implemented across the country, and where it has been implemented, it has been successful. He said that the street system cannot be judged on the basis of what has been done for the past 10 -15 years, because it is different, but he said, the differences between the proposed street system and the Master Street Plan standards can be worked out. Tim Polk, Acting Director of Neighborhoods and Planning, cited a book written by Frederick D. Jarivs, Site Planning and Community Desig , and read selections form it dealing with the concept of the "neo- traditional neighborhood" and "pedestrian pockets". He indicated that this is the first of a number of such projects which will be heard by the Commission, and urged the Commission to approve the PCD. Commissioner Walker related that the PUD or PD o have a provision which allows the Commission and Directors to approve a specific street design as PD; that the Engineering staff cannot do its job Street Plan is not amended to accept the streets proposed in a PUD or PD. rdinance needs to Board of part of a PUD or if the Master which are Mr. White clarified the request: the proposed west loop and the perimeter collector street are to meet the Master Street Plan standards; all the streets in the commercial areas of the site are to be 36 foot streets; the residential streets are to be 24 foot streets, which is provided for in the Master Street Plan for minor residential streets. Mr. McCray related that he would request Planning Commission approval of the concept of the PCD at this meeting, but would ask that further consideration of the requested variances from the Master Street Plan standards be deferred until further meetings with staff could be held to hammer out the staff concerns. A motion was made and seconded to approve the "Conceptual" PCD, exclusive of approval of the requested variances for street rights -of -way and street widths, and with the public hearing on 9 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5936 these variance items being deferred until the applicant and staff have met to address the City Engineering staff's concerns. The motion carried with the vote of 11 ayes, 0 nays, 0 absent, and 0 abstentions. 10 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 3 FILE NO.: Z- 3459 -B NAME: MABELVALE BUSINESS PARK -- AMENDED SITE PLAN REVIEW LOCATION: At the southeast corner of Mabelvale Pike and Baseline Road DEVELOPER: ENGINEER: Rick Ashley and J. D. Ashley Joe White CONSERVATIVE DEVELOPMENT CO. WHITE - DATERS & ASSOCIATES, INC. 2649 Pike Ave. 401 S. VICTORY ST. North Little Rock, AR 72114 LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 758 -5545 374 -1666 AREA: 61.572 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: FT. NEW STREET: 0 ZONING: C -3 PROPOSED USES: Shopping Center PLANNING DISTRICT: 15 CENSUS TRACT: 41.05 VARIANCES REQUESTED: None STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: The applicant proposes the development, in three phases, of a 61.572 acre site for a shopping center. Phase I construction is proposed to include a 40,000 square foot building and a 35,000 square foot building, both of which are along the norther limits of that portion of the property which lies south of the main east -west internal street. Phase II development includes construction of a 51,000 square foot building along the east property line. Phase III development involves construction of the linear building along the south property line, and represents 246,555 square feet of floor space. It is anticipated that Phase I construction will begin the first quarter of 1995; Phases II & III are anticipated to be completed during the next three years. No variances are proposed. A. PROPOSAL /REQUEST: Review and approval by the Planning Commission is requested of a site plan for the construction of a portion of the Mabelvale Business Park and Shopping Center. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 3459 -B B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The site is undeveloped. It is heavily wooded and contains a pond which lies along the east property line. The terrain is fairly level, with the southwest corner of the tract being only 27 feet lower than the northeast corner, a distance of over 2,500 feet. The existing zoning is C -3. There is an extension of the C -3 zoning district to the east, south, at the northwest corner of the tract. There is an I -2 district at the southeast corner of the tract. To the north, between the site and I -30, is a C -4 tract. C. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Public Works comments that the following are the primary deficiencies noted: 1) the AHTD will need to approve the proposal; 2) street and drainage plans, stormwater detention, and boundary survey information will be required; 3) a sketch grading and drainage plan, meeting the requirements of Sec. 29 -186, is required; and 4) ADPCaE and USACE -LRD permits will be required; and 5) internal streets should be constructed as collector standard, with sidewalks on both sides. Water Works reports that, in addition to the normal charges, an acreage charge of $150 per acre applies in this area. A water main extension and on -site fire protection will be required. Wastewater comments that sewer main extensions, with easements, will be required. Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. approved the submittal without comment. Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. approved the submittal without comment. The Fire Department comments that regulation "No Parking. Tow - Away" signs should be placed around the perimeter of all buildings. Landscape review notes that a 3 foot wide building landscape strip between the public parking areas and the building is required. 0 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO • 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 3459 -B D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: Section 31 -13 of the Subdivision Regulations requires that "Large -scale developments involving the construction of two (2) or more buildings, together with the necessary drives and accessways, which is not subdivide into... lots... shall be subject to..." Subdivision site plan review. This development meets the criteria for being subject to site plan review by the Planning Commission. Section 36 -502 sets the requirements for off - street parking. Shopping centers are required to have 1 parking space for each 225 feet of gross leasable floor area. Assuming that the shopping center parking requirements are applicable, the total square footage of the buildings in the three phases is 372,555 square feet. This would require 1,656 parking spaces. The site plan provided does not show the number of parking spaces provided; however, measuring the spaces allocated for parking indicates that 1,167± spaces have been provided. This deficiency needs to be addressed by requiring that, as buildings are constructed® the needed parking be provided. This requirement can be reviewed when building permits are approved. E. ANALYSIS: There are minor deficiencies in the site plan, and the developer can provide the required information at the time the building permit is requested. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends approval of the site plan. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER. 22, 1994) Mr. Joe White, with White - Daters & Associates, Inc., was present. Staff outlined the proposal, and Mr. White presented the request to the Committee members. The Committee reviewed the comments with Mr. White from the discussion outline, and, with Mr. White's assurance that he would provide the needed information, forwarded the item to the full Commission for the public hearing. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Mr. Tim Daters, with White- Daters and Associates, Inc., was present. K January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO • 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 3459 -B Staff outlined the request, and indicated that there were some outstanding issues to be resolved. Mr. Daters reported that the internal streets would meet the requirements for commercial streets; that they would be 36 feet wide and have sidewalks on both sides. He reported that the site would have adequate parking to meet the parking requirements for a shopping center; that, he estimated, there are approximately 5 spaces for each 100 square feet of gross square footage of buildings. He reported that the site would meet the requirements for landscaping and buffering. He committed the developer to solving a drainage problem which affects residential properties to the south of the site, beyond the southwest corner of the tract: he committed the developer to digging a "tail -out" ditch prior to beginning construction on the site to keep the stormwater run -off from flooding the residential lots. A motion was made and seconded to approve the subject to making the changes required. The the vote of 11 ayes, 0 nays, 0 absent, and 0 4 amended site plan, motion carried with abstentions. January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 4 FILE NO.: Z- 5141 -A NAME: CORE SOURCE -- SITE PLAN REVIEW LOCATION: At the west end of Corporate Hill Dr. and the east end of Executive Court DEVELOPER: John Flake FTTWK REALTY 425 W. Capitol Ave. Little Rock, AR 72201 376 -8005 AREA: 3 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: ZONING: C -2 PLANNING DISTRICT: 2 CENSUS TRACT: 22.05 VARIANCES REQUESTED: None STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: ENGINEER• THOMAS ENGINEERING CO. 3810 Lookout Rd. North Little Rock, AR 72116 753 -4463 1 FT. NEW STREET: 0 PROPOSED USES: General Offices The applicant proposes to develop a 3 -acre lot for general office use. The proposal is for an initial phase involving construction of a 2- story, 31,000 square foot building and parking for 172 vehicles. Phase two involves the addition of 10,000 square feet to the building, and 49 parking spaces. No variances are proposed. A. PROPOSAL /REQUEST: Review by the Planning Commission of the proposed site plan is requested. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The site is vacant, but is wooded. It has frontage on both Corporate Hill Dr. and Executive Court. The existing zoning is 0 -2, with 0 -2 zoned property to the east and west. Abutting the site to the south and north is 0-3 zoned property. C. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Public Works cites the following major requirements which are deficient: 1) a sidewalk will be required on both culs- January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 5141 -A de -sac frontages; 2) a sketch grading and drainage plan, meeting the requirements of Sec. 29 -186, will be required; the plan which was submitted does not meet these requirements; 3) stormwater detention and boundary survey information will be required; and, 5) the first four parking spaces on the Executive Court driveway must be removed. Water Works reports that, in addition to the normal charges, a pro -rata front footage charge of $12 per foot for frontage on Corporate Hill Dr. and an acreage charge of $150 per acre applies. On site fire protection may be required. Wastewater notes that sewer is available from Executive Court. Arkansas Power and Light Co. approved the submittal without comment. Arkansas Louisiana Gas Co. approved the submittal without comment. Southwestern Bell Telephone approved the submittal without comment. The Fire Department comments that regulation "No Parking. Tow Away" signs are to be placed throughout the site in fire lanes. Landscape review notes that the areas set aside for buffers and landscaping meet Ordinance requirements. D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: Section 36 -126 of the Zoning Ordinance requires that the site plan review process shall apply to all applications for the 0-2 zoning district. Site Plan review by the Commission was required because the site is in an 0-2 district. The site on which the development is proposed is made up of portions of lots from two subdivisions, Corporate Hill Subdivision and Ensco Parkhill Addition. A revised Final Plat of the lot, meeting all requirements of Public Works, must be provided. Section 36 -502 requires, for buildings up to 10,000 square feet, 1 parking space for each 400 square feet for office uses to be provided. For building areas of 10,000 square feet to 20,000 square feet, 95% of the basic requirement is to be provided. For building areas of 20,001 square feet to 30,000 square feet, 90% of the basic requirement is to be provided. For building areas of 30,001 square feet to 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 5141 -A 30,000 square feet, 90% of the basic requirement is to be provided. For building areas of 30,001 square feet to 40,000 square feet, 85% of the basic requirement is to be provided. The proposed 30,000 square foot building will be required to provide 92 spaces; the 10,000 square foot addition would be required to add 21 spaces. The proposed site plan provides 172 parking spaces in the phase 1 development, plus another 49 spaces when the 10,000 square foot addition is constructed. E. ANALYSIS• There are only minor deficiencies or changes in the plan which must be made, and the proposed site plan meets the requirements for landscaping, parking, etc. The developer must eliminate those parking spaces at the Executive Court access point so that cars maneuvering into or out of the spaces will not conflict with traffic entering the site. A revised and corrected final plat will be required. There are some engineering requirements for storm drainage and grading which must be complied with. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends approval of the site plan. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) No one was present to represent the applicant. Staff reviewed the proposed development with the Subdivision Committee members, and discussed the deficiencies noted in the discussion outline. The Committee voiced a concern that no one was present to represent the developer, and discussed whether the item should be deferred so that the developer could present his application to the Subdivision Committee. The Committee forwarded the item to the full Commission for the public hearing, but expressed the opinion that applicants should be required to present their developments to the Subdivision Committee. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Staff reported that all issues had been resolved, and recommended approval of the site plan, subject to the required amended final plat being submitted and filed. The site plan was approved with the vote of 10 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent, and 0 abstentions. 3 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 5 FILE NO.: Z -5921 NAME: Seiter Barber and Beauty Shop - Conditional Use Permit LOCATION: 4315 West 29th Street OWNER /APPLICANT: Aloys Seiter /Frank Letzig, Jr. PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow the use of this existing, I -2 zoned building as a barber /beauty shop. The request is filed as a "retail use, not listed." ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS: 1. Site Location The property is located on the south side of West 29th Street, approximately 100 feet east of its intersection with Peyton Street. 2. Compatibility with Neighborhood The property is located in ranging from single family light manufacturing facili zoned I -2 and the property 0-3. A church and an auto adjacent to this building. an area of mixed zoning and uses residences to auto repair and ties. All adjacent property is across West 29th Street is zoned repair business are located The proposed use of this building as a barber /beauty shop is compatible with the neighborhood. 3. On -Site Drives and Parking There is an existing, paved parking lot on the property which satisfies the on -site parking requirement. Access to this parking lot is taken off of West 29th Street and off of an alley located south of the site. 4. Screening and Buffers All parking areas and buildings are existing. There is no planned expansion of the building or parking area. No additional screening or buffering is required. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5921 5. City Engineer Comments Repair damaged sidewalk and driveway apron onto West 29th Street. 6. Utility Comments Contact Little Rock Municipal Water Works if additional water service is required. A reduced pressure zone backflow preventer will be required prior to any outlets on the domestic water service for this facility. 7. Analysis The applicant requests a conditional use permit to allow the use of an existing building on an I -2 zoned property as a barber /beauty shop. This building has most recently been used as an auto repair facility. No expansion of the building or parking lot is necessary. Some interior remodeling of the building to accommodate the proposed barber /beauty shop will be done. Staff believes this is a reasonable use of this property and supports the request. 8. Staff Recommendation Staff recommends approval of the conditional use permit subject to compliance with the City Engineer's Comments. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) Frank Letzig was present representing the application. Staff presented the item and outlined the City Engineer and Utility Comments noted above. Commissioner Willis asked that more details be provided on the existing parking lot design on the site plan. The Committee determined that there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Frank Letzig was present representing the applicant. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and informed the Commission that there were no outstanding issues. 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO • Z -5921 As part of the Consent Agenda, the item was approved as recommended by staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. 3 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 6 FILE NO.: Z -5923 NAME: LOCATION: New Jerusalem Baptist Church - Conditional Use Permit 1619 West 28th Street OWNER /APPLICANT: New Jerusalem Baptist Church by Elder I. N. Patton PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the construction of a 20 foot by 32.4 foot classroom addition onto the existing church on this R -4 zoned property. ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS: 1. Site Location New Jerusalem Baptist Church is located on the south side of West 28th Street, one lot east of its intersection with Marshall Street. 2. Compatibility with Neighborhood The surrounding neighborhood is zoned R -4 and R -3 and is occupied primarily by single family residences with a scattering of duplex residences. A church is located one block west of this site and a second church is located two blocks south -east of this site. The building at 1619 West 28th Street has been used as a church for fifteen years. The proposed classroom construction will not increase the seating capacity of the worship area which is 40 persons. A small area of new parking is proposed behind the building which will get a few vehicles off of the street. This proposed project should not affect New Jerusalem Church's compatibility with the neighborhood. 3. On -Site Drives and Parking A church with a worship area seating capacity of 40 persons requires 10 on -site parking spaces. For the past fifteen years the church has had no on -site parking. A small parking area is being proposed on the rear portion of the property which will accommodate 5 -6 vehicles. Access to this new parking lot is off of the adjacent alley. The January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5923 applicant is requesting a deferral of the requirement to pave the alley and the new parking lot. 4. Screening and Buffers Compliance with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinances is required. A 6 foot high opaque wood fence with its structural supports facing inward or dense evergreen plantings and a 6 foot wide landscape strip are required south and west of the new parking area. A 3 foot wide building landscape strip between the public parking area and building will be required (some flexibility allowed). A protective border will be necessary to protect plantings from vehicular traffic. 5. City Engineer Comments Construct a 4 foot sidewalk along the West 28th Street frontage. Stormwater detention is required. Public Works supports the requested deferral of the requirement to improve the alley until the parking lot is paved; however to comply with A.D.A. requirements, the handicap parking space and access from the parking lot to the building must be paved at this time. 6. Utility Comments Little Rock Wastewater reports a 6 inch sewer main is located in the alley. Contact Wastewater Utility before any alley improvements. 7. Analysis New Jerusalem Baptist Church is a small, nonconforming church located in a predominately single family neighborhood. At some point, approximately 15 years ago, this 1,400} square foot residential structure was converted into a church. The church has a seating capacity in its worship area of 40 persons and is running an average attendance of 20 persons. The applicant is now requesting a conditional use permit to allow for the construction of a 20 foot by 32.4 foot classroom addition. The worship area, and its seating capacity, will not be affected. To this point, the church has had no on -site parking. A small parking area is proposed at the rear of the building which will accommodate 5 -6 vehicles. The applicant is requesting a deferral of the requirement to pave the parking lot and the alley access. 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5923 Staff believes the proposed classroom addition will not affect the church's continued compatibility with the neighborhood and is supportive of the request. Staff also supports a deferral of the paving requirement for the parking lot and the alley access, however the required screening between the parking area and the adjacent residential properties should be installed at this time. In addition, one handicap parking space is required. This parking space and access from it to the building should be paved at this time. 8. Staff Recommendation Staff recommends approval of the conditional use permit subject to: 1. Compliance with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinances 2. Compliance with the City Engineer's Comments and Utility Comments Staff also recommends approval of a three year deferral of the requirement to pave the alley and the new parking lot. The one required handicap parking space and access from it to the building must be paved at the time the building addition is constructed. The required screening for the new parking lot should be installed at this time also. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) A church member, Mr. Hubbard, was present representing the application. Staff presented the item and outlined the Landscaping, City Engineer and Utility Comments noted above. The applicant was advised to meet with Bob Brown, Plans Review Specialist, to discuss the required landscaping and to meet with David Scherer, of the Public works Department, to discuss engineering issues. Mr. Scherer stated that the stormwater detention requirements could be deffered until the parking lot is paved. This would allow the applicant to incorporate all required stormwater detention into the design of the paved parking lot. The Committee determined that there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. Q January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5923 PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Elder I. N. Patton and Dale Hubbard were present representing the church. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and informed the Commission that there were no outstanding issues. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. 4 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 7 FILE NO.: Z -5931 NAME: LOCATION• Lewis Street Church of Christ - Conditional Use Permit 2716 South Lewis Street OWNER /APPLICANT: Lewis Street Church of Christ by Robert James PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the construction of a 60 foot by 100 foot multi - purpose building on this existing, R -3 zoned church site. The building will primarily have an open floor plan, providing an indoor basketball court that can also be used for other church activities and gatherings. ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS: 1. Site Location Lewis Street Church of Christ is located on the west side of Lewis Street, 1 Block north of Asher Avenue. 2. Comraatibility with Neighborhood A church has existed at this location for many years. The church property is located on the fringe of a large, single family neighborhood. Properties north and west of the church site are primarily zoned single family residential. The properties to the east and south, fronting onto Asher Avenue, are of mixed zoning and contain uses ranging from offices to retail and light manufacturing. The proposed mutli - purpose building will not affect the church's continued compatibility with this neighborhood. 3. On -Site Drives and Parking The existing 540 seat auditorium was constructed in 1961 -62. At that time, the Little Rock Board of Adjustment approved a parking variance allowing 24 on -site parking spaces rather than the 54 required by the Ordinance Standard in effect at that time. The church plans to place some new on -site parking around the proposed multi - purpose building. The church has an agreement from the owner of a large parking lot across Lewis Street allowing church members to use the parking lot. This proposal before the Planning Commission January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 7 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5931 does not generate the need for additional parking since the seating capacity of the worship area is not being increased. A three year deferral of the requirement to pave the parking lot around the new building is requested. 4. Screening and Buffers Buffers of 9 1/2 feet in width (6 1/2 feet minimum with transfer) are required along Lewis Street and along the western perimeter of the proposed development. The Landscape Ordinance requires 6 feet in these areas. A 6 foot high opaque wood fence or dense evergreen plantings are required adjacent to the residential property along the western section. The Landscape Ordinance requires that 6% of the interior of the vehicular use areas be landscaped and a 3 foot wide building landscape strip between the public parking and building be provided (some flexibility with the building landscape requirement is allowed). Protective borders to protect plantings from vehicular traffic will be necessary. 5. City Engineer Comments The following are required prior to the issuance of a building permit: 1. Contour information for the site along with sketch grading and drainage plan. 2. Drainage easements, stormwater detention and sidewalk 3. Dedicate right -of -way on Lewis Street to 25 feet from centerline. 6. Utility Comments No comments 7. Analysis Lewis Street Church of Christ seeks approval of a conditional use permit to allow for the construction of a 60 foot by 100 foot, multi - purpose building on this R -3 zoned property. The new building is proposed to be constructed on vacant property located south of the existing church building. This vacant property has been used as an unimproved parking area by some of the church members over the years. As part of this project being proposed by the church, the property around the multi - purpose building is to be developed into a proper parking lot which meets City Standards. The church is asking a three year deferral of the requirement to pave this parking area around the multi- purpose building. Based on an agreement with the 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 7 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5931 owner of a large parking lot across Lewis Street, the Board of Adjustment approved a parking variance in 1961. That agreement has been renewed with the current owners of that large parking lot, Rush Engineer Rebuilders. The church is located at the southern fringe of a large residential neighborhood and is located in an area of mixed zoning. Staff believes that the proposed multi - purpose building will not have a negative effect on the adjacent neighborhood and is supportive of the request. The addition of this proposed new parking adjacent to the multi- purpose building will bring the church closer to compliance with the City's parking requirements. Staff supports the requested three year deferral of the requirement to pave this parking area. The required screening, where adjacent to residential property, should be installed at this time. 8. Staff Recommendation Staff recommends approval of this application subject to compliance with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinances and compliance with the City Engineer's Comments. Staff also recommends approval of the requested three year deferral of the requirement to pave the parking lot adjacent to the multi - purpose building. The required screening, where adjacent to residential property, should be installed at this time. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) The applicant was not present. Staff presented the item and outlined the Landscaping and City Engineer Comments noted above. After brief discussion, the Committee determined that there were no other outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 19 9 5 ) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed the Commission that the applicant had failed to follow procedure in notifying adjacent property owners and recommended that the item be deferred to allow for proper notice. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda for deferral to the February 21, 1995 meeting. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. 3 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 8 FILE NO.: Z -5933 NAME: Word of Outreach Day Care Center and Staff Housing - Conditional Use Permit LOCATION: 2323 Valmar Street OWNER /APPLICANT: Word of Outreach by James Washington PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the expansion of this existing, R -3 zoned residential structure for a day care center and a single family dwelling to be used as staff housing. A large, two -story addition is proposed to be constructed onto the existing structure. The ground floor is proposed to be used as a day care /preschool with an enrollment of 75 children. The second floor of the addition will be occupied as a single family dwelling by a staff member of Word of Outreach Ministries. A rear yard setback variance and parking variance is requested. ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS: 1. Site Location The property is located at the northeast corner of West 24th Street and Valmar Street, approximately 1 block north of Asher Avenue. 2. Compatibility with Neighborhood This property is located near the southern fringe of a large, single family residential neighborhood. All adjacent properties are zoned R -3 and occupied by single family residences. One block to the south and east, the Word of Outreach Ministries occupies several properties along the Asher Avenue corridor. These properties contain uses such as a church, private school and residential uses. Staff is concerned about the movement of the institutional use further into the residential neighborhood north of the existing Word of Outreach facilities. The proposed use of this small, residential lot as a large, day care /preschool January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5933 with an enrollment of 75 children is a major intrusion into the residential neighborhood. Staff does not believe the proposed use is compatible with the residential neighborhood and feels that the proposed day care /private school would be better located elsewhere. 3. On -Site Drives and Parking The applicant is proposing a day care /preschool with an enrollment of 75 students and 6 employees. A total of 13 on -site parking spaces are required for this use plus an adequate drop- off /pickup area. The single family dwelling requires one space, giving a total of 14 on -site parking spaces required. The applicant proposes two on -site parking spaces and a two -car drop -off parallel and adjacent to West 24th Street. Once the required right -of -way is dedicated and the street improvements constructed, it is questionable as to whether these spaces will be available. The proposed parking /drop -off arrangement is totally inadequate for the proposed use. 4. Screening and Buffers A 7 foot wide street buffer along Valmar Street and 2 1/2 foot wide street buffer along 24th Street are required. The Landscape Ordinance requires a 4 foot to 6 foot wide, on -site landscape strip between the proposed vehicular use areas and Valmar Street and 24th Street. The proposal submitted does not provide for landscaping or buffer space along 24th Street. 5. City Engineer Comments Traffic Engineer recommends denial due to insufficient drop - off and parking. Widen 24th Street and provide curb, gutter and sidewalk as required by the Master Street Plan. Dedicate 20 foot radius area for 25 foot turning radius at the corner of West 24th and Valmar Streets. All street plans are to be prepared by a registered engineer. Compliance with the City's Stormwater Detention Ordinance is required. 6. Utility Comments Little Rock Wastewater Utility reports sewer is available in the alley. Contact Wastewater Utility for details. 7. Analysis Word of Outreach Ministries proposes to enlarge this one - story, 950± square foot residential structure by adding a two - story, 4,480 square foot addition. Once completed, the V, January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5933 ground floor of the structure is proposed to be used as day care center /preschool with an enrollment of 75 children, ages 5 months to 5 years. The day care /preschool will have a staff of 6 employees. The upper floor of the new addition will contain a single family dwelling to be occupied by a ministry staff member. The property is zoned R -3, requiring a conditional use permit to allow for this expansion of Word of Outreach's ministries. In reviewing this application, several items of concern were noted which cause staff to question the appropriateness of this proposed day care center /preschool. A day care center /preschool of the magnitude proposed by the applicant would be a significant intrusion into this single family residential neighborhood. Until this point, Word of Outreach has focused primarily on development south of 24th Street. The ministry's activities have, for the most part, taken place on properties fronting onto Asher Avenue. The couple of properties north of West 24th Street which are currently occupied by Word of Outreach Ministries, are used in a residential fashion. Staff is concerned about this movement of non - residential activity north of West 24th Street, into the residential neighborhood. Staff believes it is appropriate for the applicant to submit a Master Plan, charting future growth in the area and setting appropriate boundaries and parameters which take into consideration the residential integrity of the adjacent neighborhood. The proposed day care center /preschool will have an enrollment of 75 children with 6 employees, requiring 13 on -site parking spaces plus an adequate and safe drop - off /pickup area. The proposed residence requires 1 on -site parking space, giving a total of 14 on -site parking spaces plus the drop - off /pickup area. The applicant proposes to construct 2 parking spaces on the front of the property, at the corner of Valmar and West 24th Streets. A 2 car drop - off /pickup area is proposed to be constructed parallel to West 24th Street. Once the required right -of -way dedication and street improvements are complete, including the reconstruction of the radius at the intersection, these spaces will no longer be usable. Traffic Engineering has stated that the proposed parking spaces at the intersection create a sight - distance problem and must be removed from the plan. This property is not contiguous to other Word of Outreach properties and any required parking /drop -off spaces should be provided on the site. In order to accommodate the proposed enrollment of 75 children, the applicant proposes to add a 4,480 square foot addition to an existing 950+ square foot structure. The proposed, two -story addition will have a reduced rear yard 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5933 setback of 5 feet, 11 inches. The ordinance requires a rear yard setback of 25 feet. The property in question is a small, 50 foot by 140 foot residential lot. There is no room on the site for the required parking spaces, resulting in most individuals having to park off -site, either on other ministry owned property south of West 24th Street or on the public streets. Staff feels that the proposed development is an overbuilding of the lot. 8. Staff Recommendation Staff recommends denial of this application as being incompatible with the residential neighborhood, an intense overbuilding of the site and unable to meet Ordinance Standards for setbacks and parking requirements. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) The applicant was not present. Staff presented the item and outlined the parking, Landscaping and City Engineer Comments noted above. David Scherer, of the City Engineer's Office, explained the required right -of -way dedication and street improvements and how those requirements would impact the property. The Planning Staff voiced concerns about the level of activity proposed for this site and questioned whether the applicant was proposing an inappropriately intense development in a residential neighborhood. The Committee determined that Word of Outreach should submit a Master Plan for proposed growth in the area. After further discussion, the Committee forwarded the item to the full Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) The applicant, James Washington, was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and informed the Commission that the application had been revised in response to concerns raised by staff and the Subdivision Committee. Copies of the revised application and site plan were presented to the Commission. The application, as revised, included the following provisions: 1. The expanded structure for the day - care /preschool will be one story only. 4 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5933 2. The structure no longer requires a rear yard setback variance but does require side yard variances for two landings and stairways on the north and south side of the building. 3. Parking has been eliminated from the front of the property and the drop- off /pickup area has been eliminated from the 24th Street side. 4. Four on -site parking spaces will be provided at the rear of the property, taking access from the alley. 5. The proposed residential use has been eliminated from the proposal. 5. The day - care /preschool enrollment has been reduced to 45 children with 4 employees. The applicant stated that the majority of the employees live on the campus and will walk to work. Based on the revision, staff recommended approval, subject to compliance with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinances and compliance with the City Engineer's Comments. Staff informed the Commission that the revised site plan did not reflect required right -of -way dedication and Master Street Plan improvements. The applicant must submit a complete and corrected site plan incorporating these requirements. Mr. Washington offered no additional comments. A motion was made to approve the revised application as recommended by staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. 5 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 9 FILE NO.: Z -5935 NAME: Pulaski Heights Methodist Church Day Care Center - Conditional Use Permit LOCATION: 4823 Woodlawn Avenue OWNER /APPLICANT: Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow the phased development of a day care center/ preschool within this existing, R -2 zoned church facility. ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS: 1. Site Location Pulaski Heights United Methodist church is located on the south side of Woodlawn Avenue, at its intersection with Spruce Street. 2. Compatibility with Neighborhood The church itself has been located in this residential neighborhood for many years. Recent Planning Commission actions have allowed for the expansion of the buildings and parking lots. This proposed use will not require any physical expansion of the church facility. The proposed day care /preschool will be located within an existing education building. The existing playground will be used by the children and all required parking /drop -off areas are in place. There are currently activities at the site seven days a week. Staff believes that allowing the use of an existing education building for a day care /preschool operation will not adversely affect the church's continued compatibility with the neighborhood. 3. On -Site Drives and Parking The church currently has approximately 175 on -site parking spaces in addition to an off -site parking lot located across Woodlawn Avenue. If the church's plans for the day care /preschool are fully realized, there will be a maximum of 80 children and approximately 10 employees. This generates a total requirement of 18 parking spaces plus a drop- off /pickup area. The site contains more than adequate parking and drop -off facilities. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5935 4. Screening and Buffers This proposed use requires no expansion of the building or the parking lot. The existing playground will be used with no expansion. The existing parking lot and playground were designed in compliance with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinances. No addition screening or buffers are required. 5. City Engineer Comments No comments 6. Utility Comments No comments 7. Analysis Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church requests a conditional use permit to allow a three - phased development of a day care center /preschool within an existing education building on this R -2 zoned church site. The phasing program is as follows: a. Beginning in late May 1995, an all day program (7 :30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) for children who have completed kindergarten through 5th grade. Enrollment would be approximately 35 children. b. when school begins in late August 1995, the program would convert to after school care (2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) for children in kindergarten through 6th grade. Care for the entire day (7 :30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) would be offered when the public schools are dismissed. Enrollment during the school year would be approximately 25 students. C. Depending upon the success of the program, an all day (7 :30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) preschool /day care might be added. The maximum enrollment for which the facility could be licensed is 80 children. The program will be contained within existing church facilities. The playground and all required parking /drop- off areas are already in place. The church has existed at this location for many years and there are currently activities at the site seven days a week. Using part of the existing facilities for a day care /preschool, although a new facet of the church's ministry, is not introducing a new, non- residential element 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5935 into the neighborhood. Staff is supportive of the requested conditional use permit. 8. Staff Recommendation Staff recommends approval of the application. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) Lynn Lindsey, Minister of Christian Education for Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, was present. Staff presented the item and outlined the three -phase implementation plan for the day care /preschool. The Committee determined that there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) Lynn Lindsey was present representing the application. There were objectors present. Staff presented the item and outlined the proposed phasing program for the day -care /preschool. Ms. Lindsey offered no additional comments at that time. Mrs. James Campbell, of 610 N. Spruce Street, addressed the Commission in opposition to the day -care /preschool. She stated that the proposed use would generate additional vehicle traffic which would have a negative impact on the neighborhood. Mrs. Campbell then read from a statement submitted by the Hillcrest Resident's Association which opposed the day- care /preschool. Stacy Pitman, of 105 Colonial Court, addressed the Commission in support of the application. She stated she was a member of the church and of the Hillcrest Resident's Association. Ms. Pitman stated she was unaware of any opposition from the resident's association. Chairman Chachere asked what the enrollment of the day -care center would be. Ms. Pitman responded that the enrollment in summer -care would be 35 children and the enrollment in after - school care would be 25 children. Ms. Lindsey explained that the church was most concerned about obtaining approval for Phases I and II but that Phase III was also submitted to avoid having to reappear before the Commission at a later date. She stated that she was willing to withdraw Phase III if the Commission was opposed to it. 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -5935 After further discussion, Ms. Pitman again addressed the Commission. She stated that notices were sent to the neighbors and a meeting was arranged to explain the proposal; and no neighborhood opposition came forward. She continued by stating that the church had been in the neighborhood for over 50 years and has generated vehicle traffic for all of those years. She concluded by stating that the proposed use would have no additional impact on the neighborhood. Commission Willis asked if it was possible to direct traffic onto the site in a manner so as to limit the traffic's impact on the neighborhood. Ms. Pitman responded that it was possible to work out such an arrangement. Jean Cockroft, representing the Board of the Hillcrest Resident's Association, addressed the Commission. She stated that the association opposed the day -care on the basis of the proposed enrollment of 80 children in Phase III. Commissioner Putnam stated he was concerned about 80 children being outside, on the playground, at one time. Dana Carney, of the Planning Staff, reiterated a statement that Ms. Lindsey had made earlier. She had pointed out that state regulations limit the number of children on the playground based on the square footage of play area available. Based on the size of the existing playground, no more than 25 children at a time can utilize it. Mr. Carney stated that the playground could not be enlarged to accommodate additional children without Commission approval. Commissioner Putnam stated that he would like to see additional buffering in the form of trees and shrubbery to further screen the playground. Ms. Lindsey stated that the church would comply with whatever staff recommended in the form of additional screening. A motion was made to approve the application with the condition that additional landscaping materials be placed around the playground to further buffer it from the neighborhood. The vote was 9 ayes, 0 noes, 0 absent and 2 abstaining (Rahman, Walker). 4 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 10 FILE NO.: Z- 4384 -B NAME: Elliott Pizza and Sandwich Shop - Conditional Use Permit LOCATION: 13420 Otter Creek Parkway, Suite #1 OWNER /APPLICANT: The Circle K Corporation /Gary Elliott PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow an "eating place without drive -in service" in one bay of this C -1 zoned, shopping center. The proposed use is a pizza and sandwich shop with no dine -in facilities. The applicant provides food available for take- out or delivery only. ORDINANCE DESIGN STANDARDS: 1. Site Location The property is located at the northwest corner of Otter Creek Parkway and Stagecoach Road. 2. Compatibility with Neighborhood The applicant is proposing to occupy one, 20 foot by 50 foot bay within an existing, 10,250 square foot commercial center. The shopping center property is located within a large C -1 zoned node at the intersection of Otter Creek Parkway and Stagecoach Road. A large, C -2 zoned property is located across the Parkway to the south. An area of multi- family zoning separates these commercial properties from the large Otter Creek residential development to the west. The proposed use of one bay within an existing commercial center is compatible with the neighborhood. 3. On -Site Drives and Parking The site contains an existing, 10,250 square foot commercial building. If the application is approved, the mixture of uses and required parking will be as follows: a. Convenience store; 2,650 square feet, 12 spaces required. b. Office; 27,750 square feet, 7 spaces required. C. General commercial; 2,750 square feet, 9 spaces required. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4384 -B d. Beauty shop; 1,000 square feet, 5 spaces required. e. Proposed take -out restaurant; 1,000 square feet, 10 spaces required. The proposed use mixture requires a total of 43 on -site parking spaces. There are a total of 44 spaces on the site plus 4 stacking spaces at the gas pump islands. 4. Screening and Buffers No building or parking lot expansion is proposed. This proposed use of one bay of an existing, commercial center does not generate the requirement of additional screening or buffers. 5. City Engineer Comments No comments 6. Utility Comments No comments 7. Analysis The applicant requests a conditional use permit to allow the use of one, 20 foot by 50 foot bay within an existing, C -1 zoned shopping center as an "eating place without drive -in service." The proposed use is a pizza and sandwich shop with no dine -in facilities. All food prepared at this site will be available for take -out or delivery only. Although the parking requirement for this use is calculated at 1 space per 100 square feet of gross floor area, the same as a dine -in restaurant, the proposed take -out only sandwich shop should not generate the same level of parking requirement. Staff feels that the proposed restaurant with no dine -in service is a reasonable use for this property and supports the application. 8. Staff Recommendation Staff recommends approval of this application subject the restaurant not providing dine -in services and being limited to take -out or delivery only. Should this proposed use vacate the site, only an approved C -1 use or a similar take- out restaurant with no dine -in services can occupy the site. 0 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z- 4384 -B SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) The applicant was not present. Staff informed the Committee that the applicant had filed the application on December 22, 2 1/2 weeks after the filing day, and was asking to be placed on the January 10, 1995 Planning Commission agenda. The Committee asked staff if placing the item on the agenda at this late date would create any problems for staff review. Staff responded that it was reluctant to accept a late filing, but this issue was simple and uninvolved and staff felt that a timely review could be accomplished. The Committee determined that it was appropriate to place the item on the January 10, 1995 agenda. A brief discussion then followed concerning the proposed use. The Committee felt that the proposed use as a take -out only restaurant was an appropriate use, but felt that any approval should include the limitation that any subsequent use of this bay is to be limited to an approved C -1 use or a similar take -out restaurant with no dine -in services. The Committee then forwarded the item to the full Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) The applicant, Gary Elliott, was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and informed the Commission that there were no outstanding issues. The item was placed on the Consent the conditions as outlined in the was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. K7 Agenda for approval subject to Staff Recommendation. The vote January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 11 FILE NO.: G -23 -228 Name: Block 4, A. C. Reads Addition Alley Right -of -Way Abandonment Location: East of Shall Street, between East 9th and East 10th Streets Owner /Applicant: Various property owners by Dave Garner Reauest: To abandon a 20' alley, East of Platted Allen Street now known as Shall Street, South of Block 1 and North Lot 1, Block 4, East of Lots 1 thru 3 and part Lot 4, Block 4, and North of Lots 7, 8 and 9, Block 4, A. C. Reads Addition to the City of Little Rock and Part Tract B, Resubdivision of Eastview Terrace to the City of Little Rock West of CRI & P R /R; and to abandon any easements within the area of the alley to be abandoned with the exception of those easements in the alley right -of -way located South of Block 1, A. C. Reads Addition. STAFF REVIEW: 1. Public Need for This Right -of -Way Although platted in 1906, the alley has never been developed. The adjacent industrial properties have incorporated the area of the alley into their developments and there is no public need for the alley right -of -way, 2. Master Street Plan The Master Street Plan reflects no need for this alley right -of -way. 3. Need for Right -of -Way on Adiacent Streets There is no need for additional right -of -way on adjacent streets. 4. Characteristics of Right -of -Way Terrain The alley right -of -way has never been developed. The area of the alley has been incorporated into the parking January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 11 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G -23 -228 lot /storage yards of adjacent industrial properties for the most part. The southern portion of the alley right -of -way is overgrown with brush and trees. 5. Development Potential An existing building on the property of Antique Brick Distributors„ located at 914 Shall Avenue, extends into the alley right -of -way. Before this applicant can expand and remodel the building, the alley right -of -way issue must be resolved. No other development on any of the other properties is proposed. 6. Neighborhood Land Use and Effect The alley has never been developed in the nearly 90 years since its platting. Abandonment of the alley right -of -way will have no effect on the neighborhood. The adjacent properties are primarily industrial or vacant. All of the abutting properties have access on a public street. 7. Neighborhood Position All abutting property owners have approved the abandonment. No other neighborhood position has been voiced. 8. Effect on Public Services or Utilities Little Rock Wastewater Utility has an existing sewer main in the alley right -of -way running east from Shall Street, south of Block 1, A. C. Reads Addition. Easement rights will be retained in this portion of abandoned right -of -way. 9. Reversionary Rights All reversionary rights extend to abutting property owners in Blocks 1 and 4, A. C. Reads Addition. 10. Public Welfare and Safetv Issues The abandonment of this platted but undeveloped alley right - of -way will return to the private sector a land area that will be productive for the real estate tax base. Abandoning the right -of -way will allow for development of the property and will have no effect on the public welfare and safety. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approval of the alley right -of -way abandonment, subject to that portion of the abandoned alley right -of -way located east of Shall E January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 11 (Cont.) FILE NO • G -23 -228 Avenue, south of Block 1, A. C. Reads Addition being retained as a utility and drainage easement. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) The applicant, Dave Garner, item and noted the one area drainage easement. Mr. Gar purchased Lots 2, 3 and 4. building which extends into this application. was present. Staff presented the to be retained as a utility and aer explained that he had recently He stated that there is an existing the alley right -of -way which prompted The Committee determined that there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) The applicant, Dave Garner, was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and informed the Commission that there were no outstanding issues. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. P January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 12 FILE NO.: G -23 -227 Name: Location: Lots 3 and 4, Wilkinson's Replat, Alley and Easement Abandonment Behind 115 Midland Avenue Owner /Applicant: Greg and Cheryl Campbell Request: To abandon that portion of the alley right -of -way located directly behind 115 Midland Avenue, being a part of Lots 3 and 4 of Wilkinson's Replat of Lots 13, 14 and 15, Block 6 and Lot 12, Block 7, Midland Hills Additions and to abandon any easements located directly beneath that portion of an accessory structure which has been constructed so that it intrudes into the above described right -of- way. STAFF REVIEW• 1. Public Need for This Right -of -Way Although platted in 1910, this alley right -of -way has never been developed. There is no public need for this right -of- way. 2� Master Street Plan The Master Street Plan reflects no need for this alley right-of-way. 3. Need for Right -of -Way on Ad-iacent Streets There is no need for additional right -of -way on adjacent streets. 4. Characteristics of Right -of -Way Terrain This alley right -of -way has never been developed. A portion of the right -of -way serves as a driveway to the multi - family dwellings facing Kavanaugh Blvd. The majority of the alley has been fenced off by adjacent residential property owners. January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G -23 -227 5. Development Potential On May 3, 1994, Greg and Cheryl Campbell, of 115 Midland Avenue, received approval of a conditional use permit allowing for the construction of an accessory building in the rear yard of their property. This two story structure is to contain a garage on the ground floor and an accessory dwelling on the second floor. Due to an error by the contractor, the structure was built so that a portion of it extends across the rear property line and into the alley. After considering other alternatives including removing the portion of the structure which crosses the property line and hiring a house moving company to move the structure, the Campbells decided to approach the City with a petition to abandon the alley right -of -way. The alley right -of -way behind 115 Midland varies in width from 14.3 feet to 17.3 feet. Once the right -of -way is abandoned, the Campbells will gain property ranging from 7.15 feet to 8.65 feet in width. The addition of this property will remedy the situation concerning the placement of the accessory building which intrudes 5.2 feet into the alley at one point. No other development is proposed at this time. 6. Neighborhood Land Use and Effect All abutting properties are zoned residential, either multi- family or single family. The alley right -of -way has never been developed and its abandonment will have no effect on the neighborhood. 7. Neighborhood Position All abutting property owners have approved the abandonment. No other neighborhood position has been voiced. 8. Effect on Public Services or Utilities There will be no physical change in the property since the alley has never been developed. Easements will be retained in the area of the abandoned alley other than for that area directly beneath the Campbell's accessory building. 9. Reversionary Rights Reversionary rights extend to Greg and Cheryl Campbell, owners of Parts of Lots 3 and 4, Wilkinson's Replat and Daniel Orellano, owner of part of Lot 4 and all of Lot 5, Block 6, Midland Hills Addition. 2 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 12 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G -23 -227 10. Public Welfare and Safety Issues As the alley has never been developed and all necessary easement rights will be retained, abandoning this alley right -of -way will have no effect on the public welfare and safety. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the alley right -of -way abandonment subject to the area of the abandoned right -of -way being retained as a utility and drainage easement with the exception of that area located directly beneath the portion of the Campbell's accessory building which intrudes into the alley right -of -way. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) The applicants, Greg and Cheryl Campbell, were present. Staff presented the item and briefly gave the history of this issue. The Committee determined that there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and informed the Commission that there were no outstanding issues. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. 3 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 13 FILE NO.: G -23 -229 Name: Monroe Street Right -of -Way Abandonment Location: Monroe Street, between West 11th Street and West 12th Street Owner /Applicant: Holy Cross Missionary Baptist Church Request: To abandon that portion of the Monroe Street right -of -way located between West 11th Street and West 12th Street. STAFF REVIEW: 1. Public Need for This Right -of -Way Review by City Departments and Utility Companies indicates no public need for this right -of -way. 2. Master Street Plan The Master Street Plan reflects no need for this public right -of -way. 3. Need for Right -of -Way on Adjacent Streets There is no need for additional right -of -way on adjacent streets. 4. Characteristics of Right -of -Way Terrain This portion of right -of -way contains a chip - sealed street with no curb, gutter or sidewalk„ 5. Development Potential Holy Cross Missionary Baptist Church occupies the property on the east side of this block of Monroe Street. One of the church's parking lots is located on the west side of the street. Due to a large number of incidents involving church member's vehicles being broken into and a desire to secure the church property, Holy Cross Church wants to erect a fence on the perimeter of its property, including the parking lot on the west side of Monroe Street. The church desires to abandon this block of right -of -way which would better facilitate the securing of its property. November 29, 1994 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 13 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G -23 -229 A decorative, iron gate is proposed to be erected at the 12th Street entrance. A second gate will be placed on the 11th Street end. 6. Neighborhood Land Use and Effect Monroe Street extends only 2 1/2 blocks north of 11th Street before terminating at the I -630 right -of -way. Approximately 10 single family homes are located on the east side of this 2 1/2 block extension. The remainder of the property, including all on the west side, is vacant. Jonesboro Drive, located one block west of Monroe, serves as the primary north /south access to West 12th Street. Madison Street, one block east of Monroe, is available, as are several other streets, to serve as north /south access. Abandoning this portion of Monroe Street right -of -way does not appear to have a negative impact on the neighborhood's traffic circulation. 7. Neighborhood Position The City of Little Rock owns one lot abutting this block of Monroe Street. All other property is owned by the applicant. No other neighborhood position has been voiced. 8. Effect on Public Services or Utilities The area of the abandoned right -of -way will be retained in its entirety as a utility and drainage easement. The Fire Department must be provided access to any gate across the closed street. There will be no effect on public services or utilities. 9. Reversionary Rights All reversionary rights extend to Holy Cross Missionary Baptist Church and the City of Little Rock. 10. Public Welfare and Safety Issues Abandonment of the right -of -way will allow Holy Cross Missionary Baptist Church to secure access to its property, providing safety for its members and security for its facilities. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the abandonment subject to: 1. The area of the abandoned right -of -way being retained in its entirety as a utility and drainage easement. 2 November 29, 1994 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 13 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G -23 -229 2. The Fire Department must be provided access to any gate erected across the closed street. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) The applicant was not present. Staff presented the item and noted the Public Services and Utility Comment above. A question was raised regarding the rebuilding of the intersections with 11th and 12th Streets. It was pointed out that the Ordinance as passed by the Board of Directors would require the entrances on both ends of the abandoned right -of -way to be offset and /or rebuilt to conform to the standard driveway design as required by Ordinance No. 12,501. The Committee determined that there were no other outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JANUARY 10, 1995) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and informed the Commission that there were no outstanding issues. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved as recommended by staff. The vote was 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. 3 January 10, 1995 ITEM NO.: 14 FILE NO.: 5 -1046 NAME: CARISTIANOS' PRIDE VALLEY DEVELOPMENT -- SUBDIVISION ORDINANCE WAIVER LOCATION: On the north side of Pride Valley Road, approximately 1 mile west of Kanis Road, outside the City Limits. DEVELOPER: ROLLIN CARISTIANOS Rector Phillips Morse 800 Prospect Bldg. 1500 N. University Ave. Little Rock, AR 72207 AREA: 40 ACRES NUMBER OF LOTS: 7 FT. NEW STREET: 1400 ZONING: R -2 PROPOSED USES: Single - Family Residential PLANNING DISTRICT: 18 CENSUS TRACT: 42.06 VARIANCES REQUESTED: Waiver of jurisdiction and application of the Subdivision Regulations for the proposed subdivision. STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: The applicant proposes to subdivide a 40 -acre tract into 7 lots which range in size from 5.08 acres to 5.90 acres. Access is proposed to be provided to the three interior lots by way of a 24 foot wide, open ditch roadway in a 50 foot wide right -of -way, extending 1,400 feet into the acreage, with the road dedicated to the public. The remaining 4 lots have frontage on Pride Valley Road. The applicant initially planned to construct the roadway as a private drive in an access easement. A buyer of one of the interior lots, however, placed the condition on the purchase that the roadway be maintained by the County. The developer, then, contacted the Pulaski County planning office, received the specifications for constructing an open ditch residential roadway meeting County standards, took bids for the work, and began construction. The County planning office subsequently realized that the area is within the City's planning area, and contacted City staff. Staff contacted the developer and informed him that the subdivision is subject to the City's Subdivision Regulations, and that the proposed development would have to be approved by the Planning Commission, with the street having to meet City Master Street Plan requirements. The City's Master Street Plan January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE NO.: S -1046 requirements are more stringent than the County's, and the developer is faced with either having to construct a more expensive street than was planned and budgeted, or forego a sale and revert to the original plan for a private drive in an access easement. The County's "Typical Hot Mix Road Section" provides for a 24 foot driving surface, with 2" of hot mix asphalt on a 6" gravel base and 4 foot gravel shoulders. The road is, according to County standards, to be in a 50 foot wide right -of -way, with 9 feet along each side of the street for the side ditches. The City's residential street requirements for a "minor residential street ", on the other hand, are for a 24 foot street section with curb and gutter in a minimum 45 foot right -of -way. Alternatively, the City Engineering office has proposed a residential street with open side ditches; however, the City's open ditch roadway is to have 6 foot paved shoulders (as opposed to gravel shoulders according to the County specification), with the width of side ditches to vary according to the topography and drainage requirements, and the right -of -way being a minimum of 60 feet, depending on the side ditch requirements. The developer maintains that the difference in costs between the County and City specifications is significant, and that the budget for the development does not provide for these extra expenses. A. PROPOSAL /REOUEST: The developer requests a waiver of the Subdivision Regulations for the jurisdiction and application of the City's Subdivision Regulations for the development. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The area is outside the City Limits, but is within the City's planning jurisdiction. The area is sparsely developed with single - family residences, and there is a mobile home park on the south side of Pride Valley Road, immediately across from the proposed development. The topography is rolling, and there are scattered trees in the area. The existing zoning is R -2. C. ENGINEERING /UTILITY COMMENTS: Public Works comments that, for the proposed street to be dedicated to the public, it must meet Master Street Plan standards, and the Master Street Plan will require a minimum 24 foot wide curb and gutter street section in a minimum 45 foot right -of -way. Alternatively, a proposed change in the Master Street Plan provides for an open ditch street. The open ditch section specifies a 24 foot paved driving 9 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5 -1046 surface, with 6 foot paved shoulders. Additionally, the section specifies side ditches which are to be a minimum of 6 feet, and this width varies according to the required depth of the ditch. The minimum right -of -way for the open ditch roadway is 60 feet, but this width is dependent on the required width of the ditches. The width of the ditch is a function of the depth, with the requirement being that the width of the ditch is to be 6 feet multiplied by the required depth. (If the ditch must be 1 foot deep, the width of the ditch would be 6 feet, if the ditch must be 2 feet deep, it must be 12 feet wide.) D. ISSUES /LEGAL /TECHNICAL /DESIGN: Section 31 -5(b) of the Subdivision Regulations states that: "This Chapter shall be applicable to all lands within the City and its planning jurisdiction...." Section 31 -5(2) states: "The dedication... of any street... through any tract of land... shall be considered a subdivision and subject to this chapter." A subdivision is defined, in Section 31 -2, as "all divisions of a tract ... into one (1) or more lots, building sites, or other division..., and shall include all divisions of land involving the need for new access (or) a new street; provided, however, that the following shall not be included within this definition, nor be subject to the subdivision rules and regulations...: The division of land into parcels greater than five (5) acres, provided each newly created lot or parcel has minimum lot frontage on legal and physical access." E. ANALYSIS: According to the definition of a subdivision, development would not be subject to the City's Subdivision Regulations if the proposed lots are 5 acres or greater, and the lots have the required frontage on "legal and physical access ". The proposed development has 7 lots with in excess of 5 acres for each lot, and legal and physical access to the lots was to have been by way of an access easement. Therefore, if the access remains, as was originally proposed by the developer, a private drive in an access easement, the development is not subject to the City's regulations. In order to dedicate the right -of -way through the tract, the development falls within the jurisdiction and control of the City's Subdivision Regulations, and the plat must be approved by the Planning Commission, with the road construction being required to meet City standards. 3 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE NO.: 5 -1046 The options, then, are: 1) Seek Planning Commission approval of the plat and construct the road to the City's standards; or, 2) Return to the original plan of a private drive in an access easement, and abandon the effort to dedicate the right -of -way to the public; or, 3) Seek a waiver from the Board of Directors of the Ordinance requirement which extends jurisdiction and application of the Subdivision Regulations to this development, and permit the dedication of the right -of- way to the public and the construction of the street to County standards. If the latter option is permitted, for the time being, until the area is annexed to the City, the maintenance of the street would be the responsibility of the County. Upon annexation, the City would inherit a street which is not in conformance with the City's standards. Public Works notes that, with open ditches, abutting property owners expect the City to keep them mowed and cleaned, and the Public Works Department discourages open ditch streets. At the very least, if an open ditch street is approved, the Bill of Assurance needs to specify that the abutting property owners are to maintain the ditch. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: The Public Works staff recommends denial of the requested wavier. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (DECEMBER 22, 1994) Mr. Rollin Caristianos, the developer, was present. He presented his proposal to the Committee members, and asked that the requested wavier be added to the Planning Commission agenda of January 10, 1995. The Committee members instructed staff to add the item to the agenda. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION (JANUARY 10, 1995) Mr. Rollin Caristianos, the applicant, was present. Staff outlined the proposal, and indicated that the Public Works Department recommended that the request be denied. 4 January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 14 (Cont.) FILE_ NO.: Mr. Caristianos explained that the developer had anticipated constructing a private drive to serve the interior tracts, but that an offer had been received on a tract which stipulated that the drive be a public street. He stated that the developers had gotten bids for upgrading the drive to County road standards, and were willing to spend that much money. However, to upgrade the road to a City street standard would require extensive re- construction of the already existing base material and additional sub -grade work, wider pavement, curbs and gutters, engineering work for storm drainage calculations, etc., and, that the costs of these would not be able to be absorbed in the development. He indicated that there are at least three (3) other developments like the one which he is representing within a mile to the west of the development with similar County standard roads. Staff pointed out that Public Works had noted in its comments that, if the requested waiver were approved, that the maintenance of the road ditches needs to be made the responsibility of the developer or abutting property owners; that the City does not want to have the responsibility of maintenance of the road ditches once the area is annexed. David Scherer, with the Public Works staff, explained that, if the road is to be built to City standard, there would need to be engineering data furnished to substantiate the size of the under - road culverts which have been installed, as well as the noted upgrading of the gravel base and road width. He said that the City is trying to eliminate open road ditch street sections, and opposes the approval of one for the applicant's development. He said that maintenance of the ditches is a problem, and noted that when the ditch section is beyond the right -of -way width, on private property, then maintenance is complicated. The question was called, and the item failed with the vote of 3 ayes, 7 nays, 0 absent, and 1 abstention. 5 0 cc O U W cc L!J O Z U) U) C� G O _z z Z CL J r 0 rl, S W d D W Z z N J d r- 'D 0 wF WU)NO�Jz d J cc d W W U CC = m Q J U d W Jd JU =Z�H�� -i ME m U cr d< a_ 3: U) 'S allamommall s Islimma SINIMMIMIN mosommomon i W Z z N J d r- 'D 0 wF WU)NO�Jz d J cc d W W U CC = m Q J U d W Jd JU =Z�H�� -i ME m U cr d< a_ 3: U) 'S s -0 Pi H C!� 00 Z W CO m d i W d Z Ll W Q i ti r a. 10 1 N W Z LU p- z d W N U) Z N J p J d J Z w J d Z� QdW M WI _ -Z-'Y� o- m C,5 W 0 m c Z w- W JUJU = 0:: < =Z0tZ .) < J� W Q In = C) - U d rr- d od er -O O W C/5S d s -0 Pi H C!� 00 Z W CO m d i W d Z Ll W Q January 10, 1995 SUBDIVISION MINUTES There being no further business before the Commission, the meeting adjourned at 4°00 p.m. Z 7- / A� D e hairma S cre