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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-05-28 communication compiliation for HDC2019-023Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Thursday, May 28, 2020 8:04 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: I stand opposed to hdc2019-23 -----Original Message ----- From: Dede King [mailto:d2xs@msn.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 11:59 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@little rock.gov> Subject: I stand opposed to hdc2019-23 I oppose hdc2019-23 Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 4:47 PM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: QUESTION concerning HDC2019-023 to be read at May 28th meeting -----Original Message ----- From: Rebecca Pekar [mailto:beccapek@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 4:15 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@little rock.gov> Subject: QUESTION concerning HDC2019-023 to be read at May 28th meeting Rebecca Pekar Homeowner/Resident 1010 Rock St I am finding as I examine the elevation drawings there are details that leave unanswered questions that could blindside us down the line. #1 This question has several elements. If you cannot answer the question at this time then I don't see how the project could move forward because it would be such an enormous unknown. A major objection I had to the main entrances was the unusual sideways oriented steps and metal railing parallel to facade instead of the prevalent open, friendly, centered steps in the neighborhood. I am wondering if it might be necessary because of the following: The blurb on the 10th St and side elevations stating "EXCAVATE FOR PARKING & SPREAD MATERIAL ON SITE" triggered questions. The lot has a definite slope that I assume will need to be leveled. Something that has been omitted in the elevations is the final height of the graded property. That will have a significant impact on the perceived height of the buildings. The higher the lot becomes the more inappropriate the height of the complex becomes. ****Was the slope so steep in front of the units there wasn't room to allow for steps down to the sidewalk? If there was room I hope you will consider centered steps more in keeping with the neighborhood ****What will the final height of the site be at the corner of Rock and 10th? ****If it is substantial how will the slope be treated? Will a retaining wall be necessary? #2 Right now water runoff is mitigated by the entire lot being able to absorb it. That will reduce to virtually zero. That is a massive amount of runoff to be added to our area system. Is there ay professional assurance that the system can handle it? I know they have to come quite often to clean lines. Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 3:32 PM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: Opposition STATEMENT for HDC2019-023 May 28th meeting -----Original Message ----- From: Rebecca Pekar [mailto:beccapek@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 3:03 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@littlerock.gov> Subject: Opposition STATEMENT for HDC2019-023 May 28th meeting Rebecca Pekar Homeowner/ resident 1010 Rock St. IN like to thank all who have made it possible to express our opposition to this proposed development remotely. The fact that I am not present at this meeting in no way reflects the deep concerns I have. I know neighbors have extensively covered guideline non -conformity and zoning incompatibility so will not go into detail. I do appreciate the developers efforts to make detailing more in keeping with the surrounding dwellings, but really nothing can be done to camouflage the massiveness of the complex. It actually runs continuously almost the entire length of the Rock and 10th street property lines. This totally overpowers our friendly neighborhood and destroys the openness of side and back yards inherent to the current zoning. Zoning that is there to protect us and should not be changed to allow infill designed and constructed with the sole aim of maximum profit. Beyond the appearance of the proposed project I strongly question its viability. I find it hard to believe there is a place in this neighborhood for this type market. The developers have already had to compromise their vision of truly high end units and eliminated amenities to accommodate guidelines. Penthouses and swimming pool have been removed and square footage of units has been reduced. I am concerned what will happen if occupancy isn't adequate, owners change, or any other circumstances develop that can derail such an undertaking. Would units end up being broken up, the underground parking unmaintained, etc. Any desirability the project has depends on maintenance of the stated upscale feel being promoted by the developer. We have no assurance the current concept will deliver on that high end element. With the impressive growth surrounding McArthur Park Historic District, it doesn't seem now is the time to compromise our obligation to preserve its character by demanding appropriate infill. Please deny this application. Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 7:46 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: I oppose HDC2019-023 From: Emily [mailto:ekpennel@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 6:24 AM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@littlerock.gov> Subject: I oppose HDC2019-023 MacArthur Park has a distinct sense of history and place that should be preserved. New development is great, but it needs to be in line with existing structures. Thank you, Emily Pennel Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 1:28 PM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: Opposition to HDC2019-23 From: Christy Langhammer [mailto:twocudas@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 12:52 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@little rock.gov> Subject: Opposition to HDC2019-23 Dear LR Zoning, I'm opposed to HDC2019-23 & rezoning at 10th&Rock. Please preserve the history of our great city. Thank you so much! Sincerely, Christy Langhammer I Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 7:46 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: MacArthur Park decision From: Jann Greenland [mailto:jupiter@jannland.comj Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 6:42 AM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@little rock.gov> Subject: MacArthur Park decision I'm opposed to HDC2019-23 and rezoning at 10th & Rock Streets. I was a property owner in that area for more than a decade, and I continue to value the historic charm of the area. Our neighborhoods are what make this city great. Please allow only compatible developments in this area. Thank you. Jann Greenland Jann Greenland Greenland Creative, Inc. 501-661-9675 Minyard, Brian From: beverly jones <bevhoodjones@yahoo.com> Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 12:30 PM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: Re: 2019-023 Rock Street Development Mr. Minyard I am not sure if my comments are timely and will be considered tomorrow. However, I noted in the Staff Report that Vice Chair Ted Holder stated that there may not be a happy medium... unfortunately. This is so unfortunate because this proposed construction affects all downtown neighborhoods just as much as the bottom line for the developer. I recently was in Virginia and observed on a local channel the Fredericksburg Planning Commission meeting where they had a similar task to approve a development. They were very intense or even more in analyzing all aspects of the proposed development. Every spoke of a wheel must be balanced or it forever wobbles. I urge an approval of a plan that is balanced where everyone wins. Thanks for your consideration, Beverly Hood Jones 2222 S. Gaines Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72206 On Tuesday, May 26, 2020, 10:54:43 AM CDT, Minyard, Brian <bminyard@littlerock.gov> wrote I can give you a link to look at them online. httos://www.littlerock.gov/for-businesses/planning-and- develoomenttpianning-agendas?tab=3 click the HDC tab. If you want them us mail, I will need an address. Brian Minyard From: beverly jones [mailto:bevhoodjones@yahoo.com] Sent: Saturday, May 23, 2020 8:32 AM To: Minyard, Brian <BMinyard@littlerock.gov> Subject: 2019-023 Rock Street Development Please forward me by mail if possible the renderings of the proposed development above. Thanks! Beverly Hood Jones Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 7:46 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: 10th and Rock -----Original Message ----- From: Bennie Adams [mailto:bsoadams@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 5:53 AM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@little rock.gov> Subject: 10th and Rock Please spare this lovely, historic neighborhood. This street is important to the neighborhood and this neighbourhood is important to Little Rock. Please. Consider history and the future. Bennie Adams Minyard, Brian From: Rosalind Michelle Welch <rosamwelch1 @gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 6:37 PM To: Irzoning@littkerock.gov Cc: Minyard, Brian Subject: New Construction 10th and Rock Street Does this construction comply with the MacArthur Park Historic Districts requirements? The picture does not look like it should be a part of this neighborhood. Do we need this new construction? We have tons of new apartments already and condominiums. I think a nice historic style single family home would be more appropriate for this space. Is it not already zoned for single family homes? I would not be in favor if rezoning. Michelle Welch 1004 Commerce St Little Rock, AR 72202 501.413.8402 Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 3:51 PM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: 10th & Rock -----Original Message ----- From: Regena Sanders [mailto:Res39@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 3:38 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@little rock.gov> Subject: 10th & Rock I am opposed to HDC2019-23 and the rezoning requested for 10th & Rock. The requested structure is excessive in size and occupancy for this lot. It will decrease the integrity of a historic neighborhood that has seen continuing improvement in the last decade. It will be adversely impact traffic safety for so many cars to be departing and entering that corner. Such a large construction project will impact the tranquility of this neighborhood, already bearing the inconvenience of the Arts Center construction. Fifteen apartments is way too many units! I am the person who requested that a "cross traffic does not stop" sign be added to the stop signs at this intersection a couple of years ago. Traffic to the Arts Center can be substantial and include tourists. Most drivers were ignoring the stop signs. It was a real danger. This complex will increase that danger again with so many entering/exiting at that intersection plus the normal traffic. For 17 years, I have lived on Rock Street. The neighborhood has improved considerably during that time. Restoration and rejuvenation, all respectful of the area's character, have added to it's desirability I look forward to more improvements to a charming, livable historic neighborhood. The proposed project is not an improvement and will damage this area. Please vote against this request. Regena Sanders 1116 Rock Street Little Rock, AR 72202 Sent from my Whone Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 3:03 PM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: RE: Rock Street In -fill Development From: Stephanie Roberts [mailto:ssroberts031@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 2:12 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@littlerock.gov> Subject: Rock Street In -fill Development Good morning. In regards to the Rock Street project in front of the Board this week I thought it might be easier to send my comments as the meeting may be quite full. I think my biggest concern centers around the sheer number of units the developers are attempting to cram onto three lots. Attempting to put this many units on so few lots drives all other concerns; chiefly the size and the monolithic presence of the initial design and the increased traffic and future use of the property. In order to accommodate the number of units, the design of the building on the initial review had virtually no set -back once you factored in the porches and stoops and was almost as tall as the complex behind it. I'm sure one or both of these elements have been addressed but you can't have this many units and not have a building that is an imposing presence on the street. We are a small neighborhood and a smaller street that is primarily single family homes. And yet we already support two four-plexs, a modest apartment across the street, a large apartment building on the opposite corner on Commerce and 10th, the retirement complex on the corner of commerce/rock and 11th. And then we have the new infill on Scott and 10th not to mention Carolina row on Cumberland, the apartments on 11th and Scott plus the houses that have been turned into multiple rentals. You could argue that any more of these large complexes or rentals would drown out the other diverse elements vital for the neighborhood to thrive and retain the essence that makes it so remarkable. Even though the developers have indicated that their intention is to sell the units and not rent, this is not a guarantee and we have no control over them selling the complex in the future and how the new owners would manage it. And then we have another large potential rental property on our street with a whole new set of issues and worries. Ours is a unique street downtown. I would challenge the committee to find another neighborhood street like ours in all of the MacArthur Park Historic Neighborhood. In the MacArthur Park Neighborhood Association, our area (meaning Rock Street, Cumberland, Scott and Commerce from 91h to 6:30) is the last true downtown neighborhood North of 630 and west of 1-30, in my opinion and it's six square blocks and it is a delicate balance that needs to be nurtured. You have to have long term home owners to balance out the transient nature of renters. I am surrounded by neighbors I know and love. People who, over the years, have become friends and family and we are passionate about preserving our oasis downtown. But we depend on the Committee to hear us and help us maintain this balance. I understand the need for infill. I believe in infill. But that doesn't mean that all infill is good or right for every location. And even though the developers have tried to address many of the concerns the neighborhood raised with the Scott street development, it simply comes down to too much in too little space in my opinion. At 18 units if each unit sold and just held two people, that's 36 more people coming and going, 36 more cars (yes most families have two cars). That is a lot of traffic, a lot of people crammed onto three lots. This is a great project that needs to go someplace else more appropriate. I am certainly not trying to be an architect or designer but there is a structure on 14th and Louisiana called the Abeles Apartments that has to have 12 units. The units are big and beautiful and there is off street parking and yet you can drive down Louisiana and not even notice it. But I believe this is largely due to the fact that you don't have so many units crammed into such a small space and the architect was able to design it with an eye to how the structure would affected the space around it and not solely on optimizing square footage. The developers will argue that they have to have this many units to make their money back. And if that's their argument, fine, but, respectfully, that's not our problem as home owners and residents. I have lived in my current home for 27 years. It is the first and probably the only house I will ever own. I have fought for and been a member of this neighborhood for all 27 of those years. These developers don't live on our street. Their children don't play in our neighborhood. They didn't fight to close down drug houses and clean up the neighborhood so it would be safer. And once they make their money we will have to deal with the lasting effects of what they are allowed to build on our street. Because they will move on to the next project. But we will still be here. Thank you for your time and consideration Stephanie Roberts Homeowner 1014 Rock Street Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 11:38 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: HDC2019-023 @ 10th & Rock From: Rand & Beth Retzloff [mailto:granddesigns@att.net] Sent: Sunday, May 24, 2020 8:39 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@littlerock.gov> Subject: HDC2019-023 @ 10th & Rock I oppose the development and rezoning at 10th & Rock. The 15 unit design is too large and not compatible with MacArthur Park Historic District. Please deny the rezoning request. Rand Retzloff Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 7:49 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: 10th and Rock -----Original Message ----- From: Christine Keene [mailto:keene.christine@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 9:48 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@ little rock.gov> Subject: 10th and Rock As someone who lived at 1009 Rock for several years and enjoyed the community, I oppose hdc2019-23 and rezoning at 10th and Rock. I believe it will be a detriment to the neighborhood. Regards, Christine Keene Minyard, Brian From: Dale Pekar <dale.pekar@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 4:23 PM To: caleman@fridayfirm.com; IindseyMboerner@gmail.com; Ifrederick@hosto.com; rob@hcglawoffice.com; holderheuvel@yahoo.com; ambercj@swbell.net; jeremiah@roguearch.com; Mayor Scott; LRzoning; Minyard, Brian Subject: Opposition to HDC 2019-023, Infill Multifamily Building at the NE Corner of 10th and Rock The Honorable Members of the Historic District Commission: Please register my opposition to subject proposal for the construction of an 18 -unit Condominium at 10th and Rock. In the interest of brevity I will not repeat my previously submitted objections and those raised by Ms. McSwain, Ms. Taylor, Messrs. Pekar, Mr. Hoffheimer, Mr. Schoeneman and so many others, but would offer in addition the following reasons. Dale J. Pekar 1010 Rock Little Rock, Arkansas Area residents have a rightful expectation that existing limits on development will be respected. A home purchase is normally the largest investment any American will ever make. People make those purchases mindful of the surrounding area, its existing uses, and the allowable future uses. The three lots involved in this proposal are zoned so as to allow the construction of duplexes. Cramming 18 units on 3 lots zoned for duplexes would degrade neighborhood livability and the area of influence --that's why a change in zoning would be required. Commissioners are not required to allow developers to maximize the profits on their investments. The properties can easily be developed in a manner consistent with the existing zoning. I ask you Commissioners to consider whether you would allow the construction of an 18 -unit apartment building or condominium on your own blocks where you live. What would you say if fire or flood or a tornado destroyed three homes on your block, and a developer then came forward wishing to construct an 18 -unit building spanning those three lots? Would you just shrug your shoulders and say "OK"? I think not. You would recognize that the character of your block, your neighborhood, your area of influence would be changed adversely. This is the exact situation we residents in the Area of Influence are facing and why we are fighting so hard against it. It is true that the Historic District Commission does not make zoning changes. However, the HDC definitely may consider that a proposal is not consistent with currently allowed zoning and that therefore a change in zoning would be required. Lest there be any confusion to this effect, Sec. 23-120(f) of Appendix G of the Guidelines makes clear that Commissioners are empowered to consider factors other than the eleven enumerated: "(f) Generally, new construction shall be judged on its ability to blend with the existing neighborhood and area of influence. The commission shall consider, but not be limited to the factors listed for alterations in paragraph [subsection] (d)." [emphasis added] The Staff Report of May 28, 2020 is misleading in that it makes it appear the no comments regarding this application have been received. "NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS AND REACTION: At the time of distribution, there were no comments regarding this application." page 11 of 49 In point of fact, numerous objections were lodged with staff prior to May 28, 2020; indeed prior to the previous Historic District Commission meeting on this proposal. The staff report needs to be redone and all the input received prior to May 28, 2020 needs to be added so that the Commissioners and all other readers are not so misinformed. This would include all public comment received prior to the earlier meeting of the Historic District Commission. This failing is particularly egregious in that public comments submitted to the Commission are not reported in the minutes of HDC meetings. Public comment is being lost to the public record of the meeting and to potential further legal proceedings. Comparisons of the project to the Cumberland Towers and Park Place "incompatible intrusions" are damning rather than vindicative. The Staff Report repeats comparisons of the project to Cumberland Towers and Park Place (as with regard to proportion and scale). However, Cumberland Towers and Park Place were singled out as being "incompatible intrusions" in the 1976 National Register of Historic Places Inventory --Nomination Form (available at: http://www.arkansaspreservation.com/National-Register- ListingslPDF/PU9768 comb nr,pdf) If Cumberland Towers and Park Place are now to become exemplars of allowable construction in the Historic District, then the Historic District should be dissolved as new construction may destroy the very reason for the formation of the Historic District. Al the very least, any comparisons to such "incompatible intrusions" should be identified as such. Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 7:49 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: Rezoning -----Original Message ----- From: Amy Armstrong [mailto:amynore@me.comj Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 11:49 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@little rock.gov> Subject: Rezoning I'm opposed to HDC2019-23 & rezoning at 10th&Rock. Amy R Armstrong Sent from my iPhone Minyard, Brian From: Jill Judy <jillejudy@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, May 22, 2020 3:31 PM To: Minyard, Brian Cc: Frances McSwain Subject: Re: Proposed development at 10th And Rock Street Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged Good Afternoon Brian. After looking at the revised plan for condominiums at the corner of 10th and Rock Street, I, unfortunately must still ask that the proposal for this development be denied. While appropriate infill truly enhances historic neighborhoods and adds to a downtown's vitality, I do not believe our Commission should allow or encourage the size of this project in this location. As I opposed the plan last December, let me reiterate that the proposed new plan has not significantly changed. The project is still three stories tall with minimal setbacks. In my previous e-mail I outlined the inappropriateness of its size. Now let me bring up a new reason for denial. This project faces Rock Street and borders 10th Street. This is one of the quietest and most residential parts of the neighborhood. The residents of the oldest historic housing stock it surrounds must depend on off-street parking, as garages were non existent at the turn of the century. The Victorian property at 401 E 10th Street depends greatly on off-street parking. The Cromwell architectural firm saved this structure in the 1970's by converting it into a four -flex. There is no backyard for parking as a beautiful Craftsman home facing 10th Street was built in it's backyard some ninety years ago. Most of my neighbors have similar parking challenges. Parking will certainly be a difficult issue after this large multi -family is built. Most couples that can afford this development will have two cars. This could easily add an additional 15 cars to this area's parking needs. Concern over this sort of redevelopment of Little Rock's oldest historic district is exactly why the Little Rock Historic Commission was created. To allow such an egregious variance would not only threatens the harmony of our neighborhood, but also undermine all good, but controversial decisions this Commission may need to make in the future. Precedence is a powerful thing. For the good of the MacArthur Park Historic District now, and in the years to come, I respectfully ask the Commission to deny this request. Thank you for the Board's consideration. Warm Regards, Jill Judy Downtown Dwellings Owner of 401 E 10th Street 501-247-3834 On Dec 4, 2019, at 4:17 PM, Jill Judy <iillejudyAgmail.coni> wrote: Good afternoon Brian, please accept this email as my dissent against the proposed condo building at the corner of 10th and Rock. This is one of the quietest, most "residential' blocks in the MacArthur Park historic district and it is not a good location, in my opinion, to allow a variance for a three and four-story building. Park Place, a three story building on Commerce Street, is no doubt the justification for allowing another building that does not meet the size guidelines of the historic district. Well this might allow for some logic in allowing a doubling of that current height restrictions, I believe it is important to remember that it faces a large park and soon -to be renovated large museum and is on three lots. This gives the sense of an openness that can absorb a three-story building. In contrast, putting in a three and in some places four-story building on two empty lots surrounded on three corners by truly historic one and two-story structures will not enhance the integrity for a congruency in a historic neighborhood. Sent from my iPhone On Dec 2, 2019, at 5:07 PM, Minyard, Brian <BMinyardCu_llittierock.gov> wrote: All, The Little Rock Historic District Commission agenda is online at httos://www.littlerock.govlfor-businesses/pla nninp-and-developmentlplannina- a endas Click the appropriate Commissions information for the agendas. If you would like to comment on any item, you may email, call, or visit my office. Brian Minyard, AICP Urban Designer City of Little Rock 723 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 bm inya rd @ I ittle rock.gov Phone 501-371-4789 Fax 501-399-3435 Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 11:45 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: HDC2019-23 From: Cody McKinney [mailto:mckinney.codya@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, May 24, 2020 8:45 AM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@littlerock.gov> Subject: HDC2019-23 I support HDC2019-23 and rezoning at 10th & Rock. Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Friday, May 22, 2020 11:40 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: Keep current zoning in place -----Original Message ----- From: Libby Woolbright [mailto:libbywoolbright@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, May 22, 2020 11:27 AM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@little rock.gov> Subject: Keep current zoning in place I'm opposed to HDC2019-23 and rezoning at 10th and Rock, Little Rock, AR I oppose a zoning change in my neighborhood. Please keep the current zoning in place in order to keep our neighborhood quiet and traffic low. Sent from my iPhone Minyard, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Friday, May 22, 2020 7:57 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: From: Nicole Hamrick [mailto:nham rickl@gmaii.com] Sent: Thursday, May 21, 2020 7:20 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@littlerock.gov> Subject: I'm opposed to HDC2019-23 and rezoning at 10th and Rock. Min ay rd, Brian From: Coleman, Stephen Sent: Friday, May 22, 2020 7:57 AM To: Minyard, Brian Subject: FW: Opposed to rezoning -----Original Message ----- From: jessica hamrick [mailto:hamrick_jessica@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, May 21, 2020 7:32 PM To: LRzoning <LRzoning@little rock.gov> Subject: Opposed to rezoning I'm opposed to HDC2019-23 and rezoning at 10th and Rock. Sent from my Whone