HomeMy WebLinkAboutCBC 11-02-2006LITTLE ROCK
CrrY SEAUTiFUL
CoMMTSS10N
MEETING NOTICE
The City Beautiful Commission will hold its regular meeting at 11:15 a.m. on Thursday,
November the 2nd, 2006, in the Sister Cities Conference Room on the second floor of City Hall.
AGENDA
Call to Order: Jan Hicks, Vice -chair
Roll Call:
Open Public Meeting: ITEM NO. 1 C.B.C. 599-New Matters
Walgreens
Tim Daters, agent
With White-Daters & Asso., Inc.
7601 Cantrell Road
Presentation by City Staff:
Applicants Comments:
Comments from other interested parties:
Call for a motion:
Close Public Meeting:
Approval of the Minutes: October 05, 2006
Treasurer's Report: Ann Ivey
Old Business:
New Business:
• Adoption of the 2007 CBC Calendar
■ Election for CBC for 2007
• Informative meeting on upcoming landscape variance requests by
city staff
Adjournment:
City Beautiful Commission ♦ 723 West Markham ♦ Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 ♦ (501) 371-4864
November 02, 2006
ITEM NO. 1 - C.B.C. 599 - NEW MATTERS
Applicant:
Address:
Description:
ORDINANCE RE UIREMENTS:
Walgreens
Springfield Holdings Group
White-Daters & Associates, Inc.
Agent, Tim Daters
7601 Cantrell Road
SW Corner of Cantrell & Mississippi
A perimeter planting strip is required along any side of a vehicular use area that abuts the
public right-of-way. This strip shall be at least nine (9) feet wide.
VARIANCE RE VESTED:
Reduction of a portion of the required northern perimeter landscaping strip.
FINDINGS:
The property located at 7601 Cantrell contains a service station located at the intersection of
Cantrell Road and Mississippi Avenue. A commercial building is located along the eastern
perimeter of the plat area. There area is a commercial node, with a service station located across
Cantrell Road from the site, a shopping center located across Mississippi Avenue, and a strip
center located on the northeast corner of Cantrell Road and Keightly Drive.
On October the 26th, 2006 the applicant went before the Planning Commission for a preliminary
plat review. The only outstanding issues at this time are the alley abandonment and a deficient
perimeter landscaping strip along the north, next to Cantrell Road. The Planning Commission
voted to recommend approval of the alley abandonment which will be forwarded to the Board of
Directors. The landscaping strip, in question, varies in size from approximately zero (0'-0") to
thirty-eight feet (38'-0"'). Overall the applicant is meeting the minimum amount of green space
along Cantrell Road. However, the minimum amount drops below the nine foot wide
requirement found in Section 15-96 of the Code landscaping ordinance. The applicant has agreed
to double the amount of evergreen shrubs in this area. Therefore, the number of trees and shrubs
will more than comply with the minimum Ordinance requirements.
The proposed development has been designed to fit within the limits of the property and to
respect normal setback and landscape requirements as closely as possible. Although the new
development does not fully comply with all typical Ordinance standards, staff feels the proposed
development will be a good addition to this neighborhood. I have received two phone calls from
the neighborhood in support.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested perimeter landscape strip variance.
LITTLE ROCK
CITY SEAUT1FU3
COM M iS§10N
The City Beautiful Commission held its regular meeting Thursday, October the 5th,
2006, at 11:30 a.m. in the Sister Cities Conference Room on the second floor of City Hall. Chair
Karol Zoeller called the meeting to order.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jan Hicks Lynn Warren
Ross Piazza John Beneke
Cita Cobb Mary Jane Rebick
Troy Laha
ALSO PRESENT:
Dana Carney, Zoning & Subdivision Manager, Department of
Planning & Development, City of Little Rock
Christy Marvel, Plans Development Administrator, Department of
Planning & Development, City of Little Rock
Shawn Luther, Landscape Architect, D.C.I., agent
Steve Wade, President of Simmons Bank, applicant
Howard Atkins, Realtor for McDonalds, property owner
Kelly Daniels, Landscape Architect, Manly Land Design, agent
for Chick-Fil-A
OPENING OF PUBLIC HEARING: C.B.C. Case Number 596, Simmons Bank
Staff began the meeting for the property located at 5000 West Markham Street, which was
formerly occupied by a McDonald's restaurant and its associated parking. The building has been
razed and the site has been cleared of all improvements. Simmons First National Bank proposes
to redevelop the site for a branch bank facility. The new development will consist of a 2,600
square foot building with three drive -through lanes for teller and ATM services. Nine parking
spaces will be provided. On September 14, 2006, the Planning Commission approved a Planned
Development rezoning application for the site. The Commission's recommendation will be
forwarded to the Board of Directors after the City Beautiful Commission's action.
The site is relatively small, being 100 feet wide and 287 +/- feet deep. Due to the narrow width
of the site, there are two variances associated with the required perimeter landscape strips. The
applicant is proposing a perimeter strip of approximately 6.5 feet in width along the eastern
(Jackson Street) perimeter and a perimeter strip width of approximately 4.5 feet along a portion
of the western perimeter. Since the site is located in the designated mature area of the City, the
landscape strip can be 6.9 feet in width; a 25% reduction of the typical 9-foot requirement found
in Section 15-96 of the Code.
Staff is supportive of the requested variances. The proposed redevelopment of this infill site as a
new bank will result in a more aesthetically pleasing property than has existed in the thirty years
it was occupied by the fast food restaurant. The site sits below the level of Jackson Street by as
much as 5 feet. A retaining wall will be located along this perimeter ranging in height from 2.5 to
5 feet. The bank is proposing to place landscaping along both the high and low sides of the
retaining wall. The number of required shrubs and trees within this perimeter will exceed
Ordinance requirements. The reduction in the perimeter strip width on the western perimeter is
for only the north half of the site where it abuts a parking lot for an adjacent office use. The
southern half of the western perimeter strip will be larger than required by the Ordinance. Again,
in this strip, the number of trees and shrubs will comply with Ordinance requirements.
The proposed development has been designed to fit within the limits of the property and to
respect normal setback and landscape requirements as closely as possible. Although the new
development does not fully comply with all typical Ordinance standards, staff feels the proposed
development will be a good addition to this mature neighborhood.
Steve Wade, President of Simmons Bank, pointed out that they had met with the Hillcrest Home
Owners Association. Per the requests of the homeowners, the neighborhood did not want
Jackson Street to be widened. Mr. Wade pointed out the hours of operation is less of an impact
than the previous business. They will close at 6:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday and 9:00 a.m. to
noon, on Saturday. The site will also be irrigated with an automatic controlled system.
Pete Rausch, the City Urban Forester, requested via email, that the maple trees be substituted
with the Pistachio tree type. The applicant agreed to the change and amended his application to
reflect this change.
Motion: Troy Laha moved to approve the variance request with the changes of the maple trees
being changed to Pistachio Trees.
Second: Cita Cobb seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
OPENING OF PUBLIC HEARING: C.B.C. Case Number 598, Chick-fil-A
The property located at 6201 West Markham Street was formerly occupied by a Casual Corner
retail store and its associated parking. The proposal includes the removal of the structure and the
existing parking surface. Chick-fil-A proposes to redevelop the site for a restaurant with drive
through service. The new development will consist of a 3,776 square foot building with a drive -
through lane and fifty parking spaces will be provided.
The site is relatively small, being 148 feet wide and 288 +/- feet deep. Due to the narrow width
of the site, there are two variances associated with the required perimeter landscape strips. The
applicant is proposing a perimeter strip ranging from 2.5 feet to 4.5 feet in width along the
eastern, western, and southern perimeters. This minimum city requirement is nine feet along all
three perimeters per Section 15-96 of the Code. The site is a total of 0.976 acres and three sides
of the property are enclosed by an existing retaining wall. Due to the perimeter restraints of the
property the quantity of required trees has been reduced. The landscape ordinance requires a tree
every 30 feet along the perimeters of the site.
The applicant is proposing the following in conjunction with this approval:
1. To increase the depth of the green space along Markham Street twenty-five feet.
2. To increase the landscaping quantity along Markham Street frontage.
3. To add an automatic irrigation system.
4. The interior islands have been increase to 300 square feet in area; 150 are the requirement
and shrubs have been added to these interior islands.
Staff is supportive of the requested variances. The proposed redevelopment of this infill site as a
new restaurant within the Mid -town District is a substantial improvement to the area. The new
building is substantially smaller thus allowing for the addition of permeable green space.
Kelly Daniels, Landscape Architect with Manly Land Design, stated the intentions of the
restaurant, Chick-fil-A. Vice -chair Hicks noted she'd like to see the maple trees changed to
Pistachio trees and for Carolina Jessamine to be planted to grow down the retaining wall.
Commissioner Warren noted that we shouldn't necessarily limit the tree type to one variety.
Perhaps, we recommend them to choose an asphalt friendly type of tree or maybe recommending
three varieties to give the applicant more flexibility. For example, the applicant may have
chosen the maple tree for fall color. By limiting the type of tree it also limits the design of the
applicant.
Dana Carney, Zoning and Subdivision Manager, noted that reviewing of the landscape
ordinances list of recommended trees might be something the CBC may want to consider
revising in the near future.
Motion: Troy Laha made a motion to approve the variance request with the addition of the tree
type change and the addition of Carolina Jessamine to be planted on the retaining walls.
Second: John Beneke seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
Motion: Commissioner Laha made a motion to approve the minutes as written.
Second: Commissioner Hicks seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
TREASURER'S REPORT: City staff noted the following per Ann Ivey:
Little Rock City Beautiful Commission
Treasurer's Report
10-05-2006
Beginning Balance as of September 07, 2006
Credits
$3,323.5I
Debits
Interest oii Account •77
Total credits $0.77 $33324.28
Olive Branch Restaurant -awards luncheon $ 98.55
Micheal's-3 plagues $ 28.99
Total debits $127.54 $3,196.74
Ending Balance as of October 05, 2006 $3,196.74
NEW BUSINESS:
Jan Hicks inquired whether or not the Olive Branch was given gratuity with the luncheon last
month. Jan Hicks will check with Ann Ivey regarding the tip.
The landscape awards went off great! The awardee speaking was a nice addition to the
ceremony. The elimination of the food and beverage was also good. Having only 3 award
winners was also optimal.
Has someone reserve the booth for the upcoming Spring Flower and Garden show? Ross stated
he would be happy to arrange the schedule like last year but cannot take on the show, actively.
Staff inquired about the possibility of the three commissioners continuing as a commissioner
until such time that the position is filled. Commissioner Cobb cannot continue. Commissioner
Zoeller would if she was requested to continue and Commissioner Laha stated although it would
be difficult he would do his best to continue through the end of the year.
Everyone encourage individuals to apply for the City Beautiful Commission. Perhaps, someone
from the nursery industry would be an asset.
Everyone consider the upcoming election of officers for the City Beautiful Commission.
OLD BUSINESS:
Commissioner Warren updated the commission on the pocket ashtrays. She suggested color -
coding the ashtrays to keep up with where/who on distribution. Karol stated the white ashtrays
would seemingly appear dirty after sometime. John Beneke inquired on whether this project
should be the focus of City Beautiful Commission. Jan Hicks suggested not turning this project
into something huge
City staff noted the potential for 1 variance request for the month of November.
Commissioner Warren stated she'd check on donations for the Spring Garden Show since they
were in her department; i.e. trash bags and tools to pick up trash.
This Saturday is the scheduled day/time for the City Beautiful Commissioners to pick up litter on
the site a Bowman Curve. If able, please come help.
Adjournment: 12:24 p.m.
LITTLE ROCK
CITY BEAUTIFUL
COMMISSION
MEETING NOTICE
The City Beautiful Commission will hold its regular meeting at 11:15 a.m. on Thursday,
November the 2nd, 2006, in the Sister Cities Conference Room on the second floor of City Hall.
AGENDA
Call to Order: Jan Hicks, Vice -chair
Roll Call:
Open Public Meeting: ITEM NO. 1 C.B.C. 599-New Matters
Walgreens
Tim Daters, agent
With White-Daters & Asso., Inc.
7601 Cantrell Road
Presentation by City Staff:
Applicants Comments:
Comments from other interested parties:
Call for a motion:
Close Public Meeting:
Approval of the Minutes: October 05, 2006
Treasurer's Report: Ann Ivey
Old Business:
New Business:
• Adoption of the 2007 CBC Calendar
• Election for CBC for 2007
• Informative meeting on upcoming landscape variance requests by
city staff
Adjournment:
City Beautiful Commission ♦ 723 West Markham ♦ Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 ♦ (501) 371-4864
LITTLE ROCK
r
CITY BEAUTIFUL
COMMTSSION
The City Beautiful Commission held its regular meeting Thursday, October the 5th,
2006, at 11:30 a.m. in the Sister Cities Conference Room on the second floor of City Hall. Chair
Karol Zoeller called the meeting to order.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jan Hicks Lynn Warren
Ross Piazza John Beneke
Cita Cobb Mary Jane Rebick
Troy Laha
ALSO PRESENT: Dana Carney, Zoning & Subdivision Manager, Department of
Planning & Development, City of Little Rock
Christy Marvel, Plans Development Administrator, Department of
Planning & Development, City of Little Rock
Shawn Luther, Landscape Architect, D.C.I., agent
Steve Wade, President of Simmons Bank, applicant
Howard Atkins, Realtor for McDonalds, property owner
Kelly Daniels, Landscape Architect, Manly Land Design, agent
for Chick-Fil-A
OPENING OF PUBLIC HEARING: C.B.C. Case Number 596, Simmons Bank
Staff began the meeting for the property located at 5000 West Markham Street, which was
formerly occupied by a McDonald's restaurant and its associated parking. The building has been
razed and the site has been cleared of all improvements. Simmons First National Bank proposes
to redevelop the site for a branch bank facility. The new development will consist of a 2,600
square foot building with three drive -through lanes for teller and ATM services. Nine parking
spaces will be provided. On September 14, 2006, the Planning Commission approved a Planned
Development rezoning application for the site. The Commission's recommendation will be
forwarded to the Board of Directors after the City Beautiful Commission's action.
The site is relatively small, being 100 feet wide and 287 +/- feet deep. Due to the narrow width
of the site, there are two variances associated with the required perimeter landscape strips. The
applicant is proposing a perimeter strip of approximately 6.5 feet in width along the eastern
(Jackson Street) perimeter and a perimeter strip width of approximately 4.5 feet along a portion
of the western perimeter. Since the site is located in the designated mature area of the City, the
landscape strip can be 6.9 feet in width; a 25% reduction of the typical 9-foot requirement found
in Section 15-96 of the Code.
Staff is supportive of the requested variances. The proposed redevelopment of this infill site as a
new bank will result in a more aesthetically pleasing property than has existed in the thirty years
it was occupied by the fast food restaurant. The site sits below the level of Jackson Street by as
much as 5 feet. A retaining wall will be located along this perimeter ranging in height from 2.5 to
5 feet. The bank is proposing to place landscaping along both the high and low sides of the
retaining wall. The number of required shrubs and trees within this perimeter will exceed
Ordinance requirements. The reduction in the perimeter strip width on the western perimeter is
for only the north half of the site where it abuts a parking lot for an adjacent office use. The
southern half of the western perimeter strip will be larger than required by the Ordinance. Again,
in this strip, the number of trees and shrubs will comply with Ordinance requirements.
The proposed development has been designed to fit within the limits of the property and to
respect normal setback and landscape requirements as closely as possible. Although the new
development does not fully comply with all typical Ordinance standards, staff feels the proposed
development will be a good addition to this mature neighborhood.
Steve Wade, President of Simmons Bank, pointed out that they had met with the Hillcrest Home
Owners Association. Per the requests of the homeowners, the neighborhood did not want
Jackson Street to be widened. Mr. Wade pointed out the hours of operation is less of an impact
than the previous business. They will close at 6:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday and 9:00 a.m. to
noon, on Saturday. The site will also be irrigated with an automatic controlled system.
Pete Rausch, the City Urban Forester, requested via email, that the maple trees be substituted
with the Pistachio tree type. The applicant agreed to the change and amended his application to
reflect this change.
Motion: Troy Laha moved to approve the variance request with the changes of the maple trees
being changed to Pistachio Trees.
Second: Cita Cobb seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
OPENING OF PUBLIC HEARING: C.B.C. Case Number 598, Chick-fil-A
The property located at 6201 West Markham Street was formerly occupied by a Casual Corner
retail store and its associated parking. The proposal includes the removal of the structure and the
existing parking surface. Chick-fil-A proposes to redevelop the site for a restaurant with drive
through service. The new development will consist of a 3,776 square foot building with a drive -
through lane and fifty parking spaces will be provided.
The site is relatively small, being 148 feet wide and 288 +/- feet deep. Due to the narrow width
of the site, there are two variances associated with the required perimeter landscape strips. The
applicant is proposing a perimeter strip ranging from 2.5 feet to 4.5 feet in width along the
eastern, western, and southern perimeters. This minimum city requirement is nine feet along all
three perimeters per Section 15-96 of the Code. The site is a total of 0.976 acres and three sides
of the property are enclosed by an existing retaining wall. Due to the perimeter restraints of the
property the quantity of required trees has been reduced. The landscape ordinance requires a tree
every 30 feet along the perimeters of the site.
The applicant is proposing the following in conjunction with this approval:
1. To increase the depth of the green space along Markham Street twenty-five feet.
2. To increase the landscaping quantity along Markham Street frontage.
3. To add an automatic irrigation system.
4. The interior islands have been increase to 300 square feet in area; 150 are the requirement
and shrubs have been added to these interior islands.
Staff is supportive of the requested variances. The proposed redevelopment of this infill site as a
new restaurant within the Mid -town District is a substantial improvement to the area. The new
building is substantially smaller thus allowing for the addition of permeable green space.
Kelly Daniels, Landscape Architect with Manly Land Design, stated the intentions of the
restaurant, Chick-fil-A. Vice -chair Hicks noted she'd like to see the maple trees changed to
Pistachio trees and for Carolina Jessamine to be planted to grow down the retaining wall.
Commissioner Warren noted that we shouldn't necessarily limit the tree type to one variety.
Perhaps, we recommend them to choose an asphalt friendly type of tree or maybe recommending
three varieties to give the applicant more flexibility. For example, the applicant may have
chosen the maple tree for fall color. By limiting the type of tree it also limits the design of the
applicant.
Dana Carney, Zoning and Subdivision Manager, noted that reviewing of the landscape
ordinances list of recommended trees might be something the CBC may want to consider
revising in the near future.
Motion: Troy Laha made a motion to approve the variance request with the addition of the tree
type change and the addition of Carolina Jessamine to be planted on the retaining walls.
Second: John Beneke seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
Motion: Commissioner Laha made a motion to approve the minutes as written.
Second: Commissioner Hicks seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
TREASURER'S REPORT: City staff noted the following per Ann Ivey:
Little Rock City Beautiful Commission
Treasurer's Report
10-05-2006
Beginning Balance as of September 07, 2006
$3,323.51
Credits
Interest on Account •77
Total credits $0.77 $3,324.28
Debits
Olive Branch Restaurant -awards luncheon $ 98.55
Micheal'§-3 plaques $ 28.99
Total debits $127.54 $3,196.7�
Ending Balance as of October 05, 2006 $3,196•74
NEW BUSINESS:
Jan Hicks inquired whether or not the Olive Branch was given gratuity with the luncheon last
month. Jan Hicks will check with Ann Ivey regarding the tip.
The landscape awards went off great! The awardee speaking was a nice addition to the
ceremony. The elimination of the food and beverage was also good. Having only 3 award
winners was also optimal.
Has someone reserve the booth for the upcoming Spring Flower and Garden show? Ross stated
he would be happy to arrange the schedule like last year but cannot take on the show, actively.
Staff inquired about the possibility of the three commissioners continuing as a commissioner
until such time that the position is filled. Commissioner Cobb cannot continue. Commissioner
Zoeller would if she was requested to continue and Commissioner Laha stated although it would
be difficult he would do his best to continue through the end of the year.
Everyone encourage individuals to apply for the City Beautiful Commission. Perhaps, someone
from the nursery industry would be an asset.
Everyone consider the upcoming election of officers for the City Beautiful Commission.
OLD BUSINESS:
Commissioner Warren updated the commission on the pocket ashtrays. She suggested color -
coding the ashtrays to keep up with where/who on distribution. Karol stated the white ashtrays
would seemingly appear dirty after sometime. John Beneke inquired on whether this project
should be the focus of City Beautiful Commission. Jan Hicks suggested not turning this project
into something huge
City staff noted the potential for 1 variance request for the month of November.
Commissioner Warren stated she'd check on donations for the Spring Garden Show since they
were in her department; i.e. trash bags and tools to pick up trash.
This Saturday is the scheduled day/time for the City Beautiful Commissioners to pick up litter on
the site a Bowman Curve. If able, please come help.
Adjournment: 12:24 p.m.
November 02, 2006
ITEM NO. 1- C.B.C. 599 - NEW MATTERS
Applicant:
Address:
Description:
ORDINANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Walgreens
Springfield Holdings Group
White-Daters & Associates, Inc.
Agent, Tim Daters
7601 Cantrell Road
SW Corner of Cantrell & Mississippi
A perimeter planting strip is required along any side of a vehicular use area that abuts the
public right-of-way. This strip shall be at least nine (9) feet wide.
VARIANCE RE VESTED:
Reduction of a portion of the required northern perimeter landscaping strip.
FINDINGS:
The property located at 7601 Cantrell contains a service station located at the intersection of
Cantrell Road and Mississippi Avenue. A commercial building is located along the eastern
perimeter of the plat area. There area is a commercial node, with a service station located across
Cantrell. Road from the site, a shopping center located across Mississippi Avenue, and a strip
center located on the northeast corner of Cantrell Road and Keightly Drive.
On October the 26t', 2006 the applicant went before the Planning Commission for a preliminary
plat review. The only outstanding issues at this time are the alley abandonment and a deficient
perimeter landscaping strip along the north, next to Cantrell Road. The Planning Commission
voted to recommend approval of the alley abandonment, which will be forwarded to the Board of
Directors. The landscaping strip, in question, varies in size from approximately zero (0'-0") to
thirty-eight feet (38'-0"). Overall the applicant is meeting the minimum amount of green space
along Cantrell Road. However, the minimum amount drops below the nine foot wide
requirement found in Section 15-96 of the Code landscaping ordinance. The applicant has agreed
to double the amount of evergreen shrubs in this area. Therefore, the number of trees and shrubs
will more than comply with the minimum Ordinance requirements.
The proposed development has been designed to fit within the limits of the property and to
respect normal setback and landscape requirements as closely as possible. Although the new
development does not fully comply with all typical Ordinance standards, staff feels the proposed
development will be a good addition to this neighborhood. I have received two phone calls from
the neighborhood in support.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested perimeter landscape strip variance.
LITTLE ROCK
CITY BEAUTIFUL
C0MMISSTON
The City Beautiful Commission held its regular meeting Thursday, November the 2nd,
2006, at 11:30 a.m. in the Sister Cities Conference Room on the second floor of City Hall. Vice -
chair Hicks called the meeting to order.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jan Hicks Lynn Warren
Ross Piazza Karol Zoeller
Cita Cobb Mary Jane Rebick
Troy Laha
ALSO PRESENT: Christy Marvel, Plans Development Administrator, Department of
Planning & Development, City of Little Rock
Tony Rogers, Walgreen's, applicant
Joe White, White-Daters and Associates, Inc., agent
Dave Roberts, Roberts and Williams, Asso., Landscape Architect
Mark Parrish, adjoining neighbor located at 7704 Iowa Street
OPENING OF PUBLIC HEARING: C.B.C. Case Number 599, Walgreen's
Staff began the meeting for the property located at 7601 Cantrell, which contains a service
station located at the intersection of Cantrell Road and Mississippi Avenue. A commercial
building is located along the eastern perimeter of the plat area. There area is a commercial node,
with a service station located across Cantrell Road from the site, a shopping center located across
Mississippi Avenue, and a strip center located on the northeast corner of Cantrell Road and
Keightly Drive.
On October the 26"', 2006 the applicant went before the Planning Commission for a preliminary
plat review. The only outstanding issues at this time are the alley abandonment and a deficient
perimeter landscaping strip along the north, next to Cantrell Road. The Planning Commission
voted to recommend approval of the alley abandonment, which will be forwarded to the Board of
Directors. The landscaping strip, in question, varies in size from approximately zero (0'-0") to
thirty-eight feet (38'-0"). Overall the applicant is meeting the minimum amount of green space
along Cantrell Road. However, the minimum amount drops below the nine foot wide
requirement found in Section 15-96 of the Code landscaping ordinance. The applicant has agreed
to double the amount of evergreen shrubs in this area. Therefore, the number of trees and shrubs
will more than comply with the minimum Ordinance requirements.
The proposed development has been designed to fit within the limits of the property and to
respect normal setback and landscape requirements as closely as possible. Although the new
development does not fully comply with all typical Ordinance standards, staff feels the proposed
development will be a good addition to this neighborhood. I have received two phone calls from
the neighborhood in support. Staff recommends approval of the requested perimeter landscape
strip variance
Joe White, with White-Daters & Associates, along with Landscape Architect Dave Roberts
presented a colored rendering of the proposed development to the City Beautiful Commission.
Vice chair Hicks inquired about the tree variety used on the site. The applicant responded that
along Cantrell Road, due to overhead power lines, they have chosen the Crepe Myrtle tree. The
power lines are approximately twenty feet high so it limits the type of tree in that area.
Tony Rogers, with Walgreen's explained that Walgreen's has a prototype site layout that doesn't
include interior islands in that area; however, they had complied with this minimum requirement.
The visibility triangle of the buildings signage was also discussed. The applicant noted that the
trees were located at such for optimal visibility of the building signage.
Commissioner Warren inquired whether or not they'd considered increasing the caliper size of
the trees to 3 % to 4 inch. Commissioner Warren also noted that grasses in the area would be
nice. Commissioner Hicks noted she'd be more comfortable with the variance request if the
crepe myrtle trees could be changed to an evergreen variety like Foster Holly. Otherwise, she
most likely couldn't support it. Commissioner Warren inquired if drive-thru services were
available and if so, where. The applicant amended their application to change the tree type from
Crepe Myrtle to Foster Holly or a comparable evergreen variety.
Motion: Commissioner Laha made a motion to approve CBC Case number 599, as amended
yesterday with staff and with the change of the street trees along Cantrell to Foster Holly trees or
a comparable evergreen type.
Second: Commissioner Warren seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
Motion: Commissioner Laha made a motion to approve the minutes as written.
Second: Commissioner Piazza seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Motion: Commissioner Piazza made a motion to have a luncheon at the next CBC meeting on
December the 71" for the 3 outgoing CBC members.
Second: Commissioner Warren seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
TREASURER'S REPORT: City staff noted the following per Ann Ivey:
Little Rock City Beautiful Commission
Treasurer's Report
10-05-2006
Beginning Balance as of September 07, 2006 $3 3323•S1
Credits
Interest on Account •77
Total credits $0.77 $3,324.28
Debits
Olive Branch Restaurant -awards luncheon $ 98.55
Micheal's-3 plaques $ 28.99
Total debits $127.54 $3,19b.74
Ending Balance as of October 05, 2006
NEW BUSINESS:
$3 1� 96.74
Commissioner Ivey recommended that the Olive Branch be given a generous tip; perhaps, twice
as much due to the fact, that it is late.
Chair Zoeller inquired about the site at Shackleford Crossing project and noted the amount of
tree loss. This project was massive and required a tremendous amount of grading.
Commissioner Laha and Chair Zoeller had to leave the meeting.
Commissioner Warren inquired about the current financial status for the City Beautiful
Commission. Did the CBC get their funding from this city this year and/or were they on the
budget for 2007. CBC decided upon purchasing any of the cigarette pocket ashtrays this year.
Perhaps, new landscape award signs could be purchased without the Chenal Properties Logo.
Vice -chair Hicks recommended a scholarship of some sort be given by the CBC with the monies
remaining.
Staff noted the prior work done on brochures and the CBC's expression of a web -page.
Motion: Jan Hicks made a motion to Lynn Warren to explore various options, i.e. web design
prices/options by November the 201h and to have a report to the CBC at December's meeting.
Second: Lynn Warren seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
A second option may be to purchase a display board for the annual flower and garden show or
other paraphernalia for the event.
2007 Slate of Officers
Motion: Commissioner Piazza nominated the following for the 2007 Slate of Officers:
Chair -Lynn Warren
Vice -chair -Jan Hicks
Treasurer -Ann Ivey
Second: Commissioner Rebick seconded and the motion passed unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS: none
Adjournment: 12:38 p.m.