HomeMy WebLinkAboutZ-7700 Staff AnalysisFILE NO.: Z-7700
NAME: Basham Cantrell Long -form PCD
LOCATION: Located South of Cantrell Road, West of Taylor Loop Road
DEVELOPE
Basham Inc.
1123 South University Avenue, Suite 245
Little Rock, AR 72204
FNGINFFR
DCI Consultants, Inc.
2200 North Rodney Parham Road
Little Rock, AR 72212
AREA: 6.49 Acres
CURRENT ZONING:
ALLOWED USES:
PROPOSED ZONING:
NUMBER OF LOTS: 3
R-2, Single-family
Single-family residential
PCD
PROPOSED USE: Office and commercial
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
FT. NEW STREET: 0
Staff has been unable to contact the applicant concerning outstanding issues from the
August 5, 2004 Subdivision Committee meeting. Staff recommends this item be
deferred to the October 7, 2004 Public Hearing.
A. PROPOSAUREQUEST:
The applicant proposes the development of this site as an office and retail
development through a planned commercial development and the creation of a
three lot plat. The site plan includes the placement of four office buildings
totaling 40,000 square feet on the rear lot (Lot 3) and the placement of a 10,200
square foot retail building on proposed Lot 2. Lot 1 is proposed to be held for
future development.
LE NO.: Z-7700 (Cont.
The proposed uses requested in the application are as follows: Lots 1 & 2 are
proposed to have the following commercial uses: Antique shop, with repair, Auto
parts and accessories, Bakery or confectionery shop, Bank or savings and loan
office, Barber and beauty shop, Beverage shop, Book and stationery store,
Butcher shop, Camera shop, Cigar, tobacco and candy store, Clinic (medical,
dental or optical), Clothing store, Community welfare or health center, Custom
sewing and millinery, Day nursery or day care center, Drugstore or pharmacy,
Duplication shop, Eating place without drive-in service, Establishment of a
religious, charitable or philanthropic organization, Feed store, Florist shop, Food
store, Furniture store, Handicraft, ceramic sculpture or similar artwork, Hardware
or sporting goods store, Health studio or spa, Hobby shop, Jewelry store, Job
printing, lithographer, printing or blueprinting, Key shop, Laboratory, Dry
Cleaners or pickup station, Lawn and garden center, enclosed, Library, art
gallery, museum or similar public use, Lodge or fraternal organization, Medical
appliance fittings and sales, Office (general and professional), Office equipment
sales and service, Optical shop, Paint and wallpaper store, Pet shop,
Photography studio, Retail uses not listed (enclosed), School (business), School
(commercial, trade, or craft), Shoe repair, Studio (art, music, speech, drama,
dance or other artistic endeavors), Studio broadcasting and recording, Tailor,
Tool and equipment rental (inside display only), Travel bureau.
Lot 3 is to be limited to the following general office uses: Bank or savings and
loans office, Clinic (medical, dental or optical), Duplication shop, Establishment of
religious, charitable or philanthropic organization, Laboratory, Lodge or fraternal
organization, Mortuary or funeral home, Office (general or professional),
Photography studio, School (business), School (public or denominational), Studio
(broadcasting and recording), Studio (art, music, speech, drama, dance or other
artistic endeavors), Travel bureau. The applicant is also requesting accessory
uses allowed under 0-3 zoning up to ten percent of the total floor area for Lot 3.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is tree covered site. To the east of the site is a commercial business,
David Claiborne's Antiques, and to the west of the site is a single-family home.
To the south of the site are single-family homes in the Westchester Subdivision.
North of the site is a mixture of residential and non-residential uses. A Wal -
Green's Pharmacy is located to the northeast and a bank to the northwest.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
The Johnson Ranch Neighborhood Association, the Westchester/Heatherbrae
Neighborhood Association, all owners of property located within 200 -feet of the
site and all residents located within 300 -feet of the site, who could be identified,
were notified of the public hearing. As of this writing staff has received several
phone calls in opposition to the request from area residents.
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FILE NO.: Z-7700 (Cont.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
Public Works:
1. Cantrell Road is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal arterial.
Dedication of right-of-way 55 -feet from centerline will be required. No survey
or proposed dedication is provided to document compliance.
2. Sidewalks with appropriate handicap ramps are required in accordance with
Section 31-175 of the Little Rock Code and the Master Street Plan. All
driveways shall be concrete aprons per City Ordinance.
3. Provide the direction of flow and all storm water flows (Q) entering and
leaving the property and any proposed piping.
4. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Shown the
proposed location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
5. Plans for all work in the right-of-way shall be submitted for approval prior to
start of work. Obtain barricade permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-
way from Traffic Engineering at (501) 379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield) and
AHTD, District 6.
6. A grading permit in accordance with Section 29-186 (c) and (d) will be
required prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site. Site
grading and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to
the start of construction.
7. Prepare a letter of pending development addressing streetlights as required
by Section 31-403 of the Little Rock Code of Ordinances. Contact Traffic
Engineering at (501) 379-1813 (Steve Philpott) for more information.
8. Show cross -access easement for properties to the east and west.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANN
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required, with easements, if service is
required for the project. Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for
additional information.
Entergy: Approved as submitted.
Center-Point_Energy: Approved as submitted.
SBC: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time of request for water service must be met. A Capital Investment Charge
based on the size of connection(s) will apply to this project in addition to normal
charges. This fee will apply to all connections including metered connections off
the private fire system. A water main extension will be required in order to
provide service to this property. On site fire protection will be required. This
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FILE NO.: Z-7700 (Cont.
development will have minor impact on the existing water distribution system.
Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate pressure and fire
protection.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire
Department at 918-3752 for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: No comment received.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Chenal Planning District. The
Land Use Plan shows Transition for this property. The applicant has applied for
a Planned Commercial Development for three lots with two lots of commercial
uses fronting on Cantrell Road and one lot in the rear with four office buildings.
A land use plan amendment for a change to Commercial is a separate item on
this agenda (LU04-01-05).
Master Street Plan: Cantrell Road is shown as a Principal Arterial on the Master
Street Plan and may require dedication of right-of-way and street improvements.
The primary function of a Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to
connect major traffic generators or activity centers within urbanized areas.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not
located in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood
action plan
Landscape: Areas set-aside for buffers and landscaping meet with ordinance
requirements.
A 6 -foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side directed
outward, a wall or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the southern and
western perimeters of the site.
An irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
Prior to a building permit being issued, it will be necessary to provide landscape
plans stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape Architect.
The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many trees as
feasible on this property. Extra credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance
requirements can be given when properly preserving trees of 6 -inch caliper or
larger.
!1
FILE NO.: Z-7700 (Cont
A tree count of trees 6 -inch caliper or larger should be provided within the
proposed 40 -foot wide southern perimeter land use buffer. This buffer should be
labeled as an undisturbed area. Temporary fencing must be in place to protect
trees prior to site work taking place.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (September 16 2004)
Mr. Robert Brown and Mr. Charles Basham were present representing the
request. Staff stated the item was a deferred item from the August 26, 2004,
public hearing and the applicant had requested to discuss the item before the
Subdivision Committee prior to the public hearing. Staff noted all comments
were previously given to the applicant and the applicant had addressed most of
the issues.
Staff stated the site had a history of drainage complaints. Staff questioned the
proposed detention. Mr. Brown stated detention would be handled from a
detention basin located near Cantrell Road. Mr. Brown stated there was not a
defined channel, just surface flow through the site. He stated a small portion of
the site would drain to the southwest along an existing drainage basin.
Mr. Brown stated landscaping comments had been addressed. He stated the
development would include the placement of the required buffer and screening.
He stated in addition a row of evergreen plantings would be added to the rear of
the buildings to further screen the development from the adjoining single-family
homes.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the
item to the full Commission for final action.
H. ANALYSIS:
The applicant has submitted a revised site plan indicating four single story office
buildings on proposed Lot 3. The applicant has also indicated a 10,200 square
foot retail building on Lot 2 and has indicated Lot 1 will be held for future
commercial development. The applicant is requesting the approval of a three lot
plat in conjunction with the PCD zoning request. The applicant has indicated Lot
1 will contain 1.26 acres, Lot 2 will contain 1.66 acres and Lot 3 will contain 3.57
acres. The Highway 10 Design Overlay District typically requires a two acre
minimum lot size for development. Through the Planned Development process,
sites containing less than two acres may be developed.
The applicant has indicated signage on the proposed site plan consistent with
signage allowed in the Highway 10 Design Overlay District for Lots 1 and 2. The
applicant has indicated a single sign located on each of the proposed lots
abutting Cantrell Road a maximum of six feet in height and seventy-two square
feet in area. The applicant has indicated each of the buildings on Lot 3 will have
a single ground mounted sign a maximum of six feet in height and sixty-four
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FILE NO.: Z-7700 Cont.
square feet in area. The ordinance typically allows a single sign for each
individual lot.
The applicant has indicated the proposed development of the site as an office
and retail development. The proposed uses requested in the application are as
follows: Lots 1 & 2 are proposed to have the following commercial uses: Antique
shop, with repair, Auto parts and accessories, Bakery or confectionery shop,
Bank or savings and loan office, Barber and beauty shop, Beverage shop, Book
and stationery store, Butcher shop, Camera shop, Cigar, tobacco and candy
store, Clinic (medical, dental or optical), Clothing store, Community welfare or
health center, Custom sewing and millinery, Day nursery or day care center,
Drugstore or pharmacy, Duplication shop, Eating place without drive-in service,
Establishment of a religious, charitable or philanthropic organization, Feed store,
Florist shop, Food store, Furniture store, Handicraft, ceramic sculpture or similar
artwork, Hardware or sporting goods store, Health studio or spa, Hobby shop,
Jewelry store, Job printing, lithographer, printing or blueprinting, Key shop,
Laboratory, Dry Cleaners or pickup station, Lawn and garden center, enclosed,
Library, art gallery, museum or similar public use, Lodge or fraternal organization,
Medical appliance fittings and sales, Office (general and professional), Office
equipment sales and service, Optical shop, Paint and wallpaper store, Pet shop,
Photography studio, Retail uses not listed (enclosed), School (business), School
(commercial, trade, or craft), Shoe repair, Studio (art, music, speech, drama,
dance or other artistic endeavors), Studio broadcasting and recording, Tailor,
Tool and equipment rental (inside display only), Travel bureau.
Lot 3 is to be limited to the following general office uses: Bank or savings and
loans office, Clinic (medical, dental or optical), Duplication shop, Establishment of
religious, charitable or philanthropic organization, Laboratory, Lodge or fraternal
organization, Mortuary or funeral home, Office (general or professional),
Photography studio, School (business), School (public or denominational), Studio
(broadcasting and recording), Studio (art, music, speech, drama, dance or other
artistic endeavors), Travel bureau. The applicant is also requesting accessory
uses allowed under 0-3 zoning up to ten percent of the total floor area for Lot 3.
The applicant has indicated the days and hours of operation for the office
development will be from 7:00 am and 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday only.
Lot 1 is proposed to have limited hours of operation and may be open between
the hours of 5:00 am and 2:00 am seven days per week. Lot 2 is proposed to
have limited hours of operation between 6:00 am and 11:00 pm seven days per
week.
The applicant has provided the following phasing plan for proposed Lot 3. The
southern two buildings will be completed within 1.5 to 2 years following approval.
The other two buildings would be completed within 3 to 4 years following
approval. The applicant has indicated if a development is secured for Lot 1 the
PCD will be revised to indicate the building footprint, parking and landscaped
areas.
C.
FILE NO.: Z-7700 (Cont.
Staff is not supportive of the applicant's request. The site is located in an area,
shown as Transition on the City's Future Land Use Plan, which does not allow for
commercial development. Staff feels the development is too far west of an
existing commercial node and does not feel the expansion of this node is
appropriate at this time. Staff feels the site should be developed with uses
allowed in the Transition category of the Future Land Use Plan to allow a step
down from the commercial node located at the intersection of Taylor Loop Road
and Cantrell Road. Staff feels the placement of the four office buildings on the
rear of the site is appropriate but also feels the front two lots should also be
developed with office uses. Staff would also question some of the requested
uses for the proposed office site. Staff does not feel a mortuary or funeral home,
studio (broadcasting and recording) or lodge or fraternal organization are
appropriate uses for the site.
In addition, the applicant has indicated the development of the site with a three
lot plat, two of which are less than the minimum square footage required by the
Highway 10 Design Overlay District. Staff feels the development of these two
lots with less than the minimum acreage required will erode the corridor. Staff
feels the site should be developed as an office development limiting the
commercial uses to those allowed in office zones or ten percent of the gross floor
area.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends denial of the request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (AUGUST 26, 2004)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff stated the applicant was working with them to resolve
outstanding technical issues associated with the proposed site plan. Staff presented a
recommendation the item be deferred to the October 7, 2004, Public Hearing to allow
the applicant additional time to resolve the outstanding issues.
There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion to place the
item for inclusion on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote of
9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:
(OCTOBER 7, 2004)
Mr. Randy Frazier was present representing the applicant. There were registered
objectors present. Staff stated the applicant had submitted a request dated October 4,
2004, requesting this item be deferred to the December 2, 2004, Public Hearing. Staff
stated the request would require a waiver of the By -Laws for the late deferral request.
Staff stated they were supportive of the applicant's request.
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FILE NO.: Z-7700(Cont.)
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion to place
the item on the Consent Agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes,
0 noes and 2 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
The applicant submitted a revised plan to staff and revised the list of requested uses for
the proposed development. The revised site plan includes the placement of a 13,600
square foot office building on proposed Lot 2 and the placement of four buildings
totaling 40,000 square feet of office on proposed Lot 3. The applicant has indicated
Lots 1 and 2 will be developed with entirely 0-3, General Office uses with no allowance
for accessory uses. The applicant is requesting to concentrate the allowable ten
percent commercial activities, typically allowed for 0-3 zoned properties, on proposed
Lot 1. The applicant has indicated a maximum of 5,300 square feet of accessory retail
will be located in the proposed building for Lot 1.
The applicant is now requesting Lots 2 and 3 be allowed 0-3, General Office uses with
no accessory or conditional uses. The applicant is requesting the 5300 square foot
building on Lot 1 be allowed 0-3, General Office uses; 0-3 accessory uses; plus the
following commercial uses: Bakery, Specialty foods, Butcher shop, Commercial
catering, Store or studio for artwork or ceramics or handicraft, Hardware store, Sporting
goods store, Medical support services, Office equipment sales and service, Optical
shop, Paint and wallpaper store, Video rental store, and Window treatments and/or
interior decorator shop with no limit on the percentages.
The applicant has indicated the proposed drainage will run along the south side of
Cantrell Road and carry storm water directly to the creek channel west of the site,
instead of releasing it at the western edges of the site. The applicant has indicated it
may also be possible to accomplish this by connecting to the existing drainage facilities
existing along Cantrell Road.
The site plan includes the placement of an eight foot wood fence along the southern
and eastern perimeters to act as screening were adjacent to residentially zoned
properties. The applicant as also included the placement of a 48 -foot buffer along the
southern boundary to act as a buffer to the adjoining single-family neighborhood. The
site plan includes the placement of 36 -feet of undisturbed buffer area and 8 -feet of
landscaping to be replanted with evergreen shrubs such as southern magnolias that are
eight feet in height, and branched full to the ground. The Highway 10 Design Overlay
District typically requires a 40 -foot rear yard buffer. The proposed buffer exceeds the
minimum ordinance requirement by 20 percent.
Staff is not supportive of the proposed development. The development is proposed as
a three lot plat with a mixture of office and commercial uses. The applicant is proposing
Lot 1 to potentially be developed as 100 percent commercial. Staff does not feel the
intent of the Mixed Office Commercial Land Use designation is to allow lots within a
development to develop independently as a retail development and two office lots. Staff
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FILE NO.: Z-7700 (Cont.
feels the intent of a Mixed Office Development is to allow a truly mixed development
within the buildings and without independent lots. As staff previously indicated staff is
supportive of the site developing as an office development and the individual buildings
being allowed ten percent accessory uses but not of concentrating the commercial
activity on one lot within the development.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 2, 2004)
Mr. Robert Brown was present representing the request. There were registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item indicating the request had been amended to
a POD. Staff stated the applicant was now requesting an office development with 0-3
uses being allowable uses and the allowable ten percent accessory uses listed with no
more than ten percent of the gross floor area in each building. Staff stated the building
foot print for Lot 1 had not been determined and an amendment would be sought when
development plans were secured. Staff stated the request was consistent with the
City's Future Land Use Plan and consistent with the requirements of the Highway 10
Design Overlay District. Staff presented a recommendation of approval of the request.
Mr. Robert Brown addressed the Commission on the merits of the proposed request.
He stated the proposed site contained 6.6 acres. He stated of the 6.6 acres 1.56 acres
were being held as buffers for adjoining properties. He stated there had been several
revisions to the proposed request. He stated there had been two meetings with the
neighborhood and some of their request had been included in the proposed request.
He stated the neighborhood was requesting a 75 to 100 -foot buffer along the southern
perimeter similar to the commercial development to the east. He stated Harvest Foods
was developed as a commercial development and the 100 -foot buffer made sense to
protect the neighborhood. He stated the request before the Commission currently was
an office development not a commercial development. He stated the proposed site plan
included the placement of a 48 -foot setback with 36 -feet remaining undisturbed.
He stated he was well aware of the flooding problems the neighborhood suffered. He
stated the developer had committed to pipe the water from the site to Cantrell Road. He
stated only a small portion of the site would continue to drain to the south. He stated
there was an existing drainage way along the western edge of the property, which
would be handled by canalization or piping around the southern perimeter and along the
western property line.
He stated the developer had agreed to place additional plantings within the buffer area
both in the disturbed and undisturbed areas. He stated a six foot fence would also be
placed along the retaining wall to add additional screening. He stated the buffer area
contained mature trees, which did not allow for under growth. He stated the developer
had also agreed to not place any HVAC units on the rears of the buildings adjacent to
the single-family subdivision.
Mr. Robbie Linn addressed the Commission in opposition of the proposed request. He
stated his home was located at 14 Westchester Court immediately south of the
proposed development. He stated the neighborhood had very little notice of the
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FILE NO.: Z-7700 (Cont.
proposed changes to the request. He provided pictures of the proposed development
and the indicated buffer areas. He also provided an elevation of the proposed building
height in relation to the proposed single-family homes. He stated the proposed
development would tower above the homes with little buffer or screening. Mr. Linn
stated the retaining wall would be 24 -feet in height and the buildings would be 15 -feet in
height. He stated the buildings would be 40 -feet above the homes. He stated the
lighting would then be 50 to 60 -feet above the neighboring homes.
Mr. Linn stated he disagreed with staff concerning the compatibility of the proposed
request. He stated according to the City codes proposed developments were to provide
for a transition between adjoining uses and not be used for the sole benefit of the
applicant. He stated he felt the proposed development would adversely affect the
quality of life of the adjoining property owners and he felt the request did not comply
with the existing codes and ordinances. Mr. Linn stated the neighborhood was
requesting a 100 -foot buffer similar to the buffer provided by Harvest Foods. He stated
the site contained 53 parking spaces more than was typically required by ordinance. He
stated with the removal of the additional parking spaces additional buffers could be
provided. He also requested the developer provide a detailed drainage analysis prior to
approval to ensure the drainage proposed was adequate to handle the development
and run-off.
Mr. Bob Altof addressed the Commission in opposition of the proposed request. He
stated planning was for the past, present and future. He stated the City was aware of
the neighborhood's flooding problems. He stated the subdivision's drainage was listed
on the City's un -funded infrastructure improvement list. He stated it was important to
address the existing problems before approving a plan which would provide additional
drainage problems.
Mr. William Ripple addressed the Commission in opposition of the proposed request.
He stated the property currently drained to the northeast. He stated the proposed
development would directly affect the existing drainage of the site. He stated the water
flow would be impeded with the proposed buffer. He stated if the buffer were increased
to 100 -feet the drainage concerns could be minimized.
Mr. Nathan Culp addressed the Commission in opposition of the proposed request. He
stated he was President of the Westbury Neighborhood Association. He stated the
neighborhood was opposed to the development of the site as intensely as requested.
He stated the primary concerned with for the quality of life of the area residents. He
stated two buildings containing 10,000 square feet each sitting on top of a 24 -foot
retaining wall would not contribute to the quality of life of the area residents.
Mr. Robert Brown stated the drainage plan was part of the PZD request. He stated the
proposal was to take six to six and one-half acres out of the existing watershed. He
stated water would be collected and piped to Cantrell Road. He stated the retaining
walls would be poured in place walls for the building foundation and architectural blocks
could be used in the other locations.
10
There was a general discussion concerning the proposed development and the
indicated retaining walls. Staff stated the walls would require a variance to allow the
indicated height. Mr. Brown stated he was willing to terrace the walls and provide an
additional ten feet of building setback to provide the required ten foot bench. Mr. Brown
stated landscaping would be placed on the bench to provide additional screening. The
Commission questioned the required landscaping. Staff stated the spacing would be
fifteen feet with two inch caliper trees and also shrubs put in place to break the massing
of the wall. Staff stated both the lower and upper terraces would require plantings.
A motion was made to approve the request as amended. The amendment included the
placement of additional plantings within the buffer both the disturbed and undisturbed
areas, the uses of the site be limited to 0-3 uses and the allowable accessory uses
limited to ten percent of the gross floor area of each building, the placement of
architectural blocks limited to a maximum wall height of fifteen feet with a ten foot
terrace to be planted with trees on a minimum of 15 -foot centers and additional shrubs,
and the planting of trees and shrubs on the top of the terrace and a six foot fence with
the face side directed outward. The motion failed by a vote of 5 ayes, 4 noes and
2 absent.
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December 2, 2004
ITEM NO.: B.1 FILE NO.: Z-7700
NAME: Basham Cantrell Long -form PCD
LOCATION: Located South of Cantrell Road, West of Taylor Loop Road
DEVELOPER:
Basham Inc.
1123 South University Avenue, Suite 245
Little Rock, AR 72204
ENGINEER:
DCI Consultants, Inc.
2200 North Rodney Parham Road
Little Rock, AR 72212
AREA: 6.49 Acres
CURRENT ZONING:
ALLOWED USES:
PROPOSED ZONING
PROPOSED USE
NUMBER OF LOTS: 3
R-2, Single-family
Single-family residential
PCD
Office and commercial
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
FT. NEW STREET: 0
Staff has been unable to contact the applicant concerning outstanding issues from the
August 5, 2004 Subdivision Committee meeting. Staff recommends this item be
deferred to the October 7, 2004 Public Hearing.
A. PROPOSAUREQUEST:
The applicant proposes the development of this site as an office and retail
development through a planned commercial development and the creation of a
three lot plat. The site plan includes the placement of four office buildings
totaling 40,000 square feet on the rear lot (Lot 3) and the placement of a 10,200
square foot retail building on proposed Lot 2. Lot 1 is proposed to be held for
future development.
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-7700
The proposed uses requested in the application are as follows: Lots 1 & 2 are
proposed to have the following commercial uses: Antique shop, with repair, Auto
parts and accessories, Bakery or confectionery shop, Bank or savings and loan
office, Barber and beauty shop, Beverage shop, Book and stationery store,
Butcher shop, Camera shop, Cigar, tobacco and candy store, Clinic (medical,
dental or optical), Clothing store, Community welfare or health center, Custom
sewing and millinery, Day nursery or day care center, Drugstore or pharmacy,
Duplication shop, Eating place without drive-in service, Establishment of a
religious, charitable or philanthropic organization, Feed store, Florist shop, Food
store, Furniture store, Handicraft, ceramic sculpture or similar artwork, Hardware
or sporting goods store, Health studio or spa, Hobby shop, Jewelry store, Job
printing, lithographer, printing or blueprinting, Key shop, Laboratory, Dry
Cleaners or pickup station, Lawn and garden center, enclosed, Library, art
gallery, museum or similar public use, Lodge or fraternal organization, Medical
appliance fittings and sales, Office (general and professional), Office equipment
sales and service, Optical shop, Paint and wallpaper store, Pet shop,
Photography studio, Retail uses not listed (enclosed), School (business), School
(commercial, trade, or craft), Shoe repair, Studio (art, music, speech, drama,
dance or other artistic endeavors), Studio broadcasting and recording, Tailor,
Tool and equipment rental (inside display only), Travel bureau.
Lot 3 is to be limited to the following general office uses: Bank or savings and
loans office, Clinic (medical, dental or optical), Duplication shop, Establishment of
religious, charitable or philanthropic organization, Laboratory, Lodge or fraternal
organization, Mortuary or funeral home, Office (general or professional),
Photography studio, School (business), School (public or denominational), Studio
(broadcasting and recording), Studio (art, music, speech, drama, dance or other
artistic endeavors), Travel bureau. The applicant is also requesting accessory
uses allowed under 0-3 zoning up to ten percent of the total floor area for Lot 3.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is tree covered site. To the east of the site is a commercial business,
David Claiborne's Antiques, and to the west of the site is a single-family home.
To the south of the site are single-family homes in the Westchester Subdivision.
North of the site is a mixture of residential and non-residential uses. A Wal -
Green's Pharmacy is located to the northeast and a bank to the northwest.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
The Johnson Ranch Neighborhood Association, the Westchester/Heatherbrae
Neighborhood Association, all owners of property located within 200 -feet of the
site and all residents located within 300 -feet of the site, who could be identified,
were notified of the public hearing. As of this writing staff has received several
2
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-7700
phone calls in opposition to the request from area residents.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
Public Works:
1. Cantrell Road is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal arterial.
Dedication of right-of-way 55 -feet from centerline will be required. No survey
or proposed dedication is provided to document compliance.
2. Sidewalks with appropriate handicap ramps are required in accordance with
Section 31-175 of the Little Rock Code and the Master Street Plan. All
driveways shall be concrete aprons per City Ordinance.
3. Provide the direction of flow and all storm water flows (Q) entering and
leaving the property and any proposed piping.
4. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Shown the
proposed location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
5. Plans for all work in the right-of-way shall be submitted for approval prior to
start of work. Obtain barricade permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-
way from Traffic Engineering at (501) 379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield) and
AHTD, District 6.
6. A grading permit in accordance with Section 29-186 (c) and (d) will be
required prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site. Site
grading and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to
the start of construction.
7. Prepare a letter of pending development addressing streetlights as required
by Section 31-403 of the Little Rock Code of Ordinances. Contact Traffic
Engineering at (501) 379-1813 (Steve Philpott) for more information.
8. Show cross -access easement for properties to the east and west.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required, with easements, if service is
required for the project. Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for
additional information.
Entergy: Approved as submitted.
Center -Point Energy: Approved as submitted.
SBC: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at
the time
based o
charges
of request for water service must be met. A Capital Investment Charge
i the size of connection(s) will apply to this project in addition to normal
This fee will apply to all connections including metered connections off
4-1
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 (Cont.
FILE NO.: Z-7700
the private fire system. A water main extension will be required in order to
provide service to this property. On site fire protection will be required. This
development will have minor impact on the existing water distribution system.
Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate pressure and fire
protection.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire
Department at 918-3752 for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: No comment received.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planninq Division: This request is located in the Chenal Planning District. The
Land Use Plan shows Transition for this property. The applicant has applied for
a Planned Commercial Development for three lots with two lots of commercial
uses fronting on Cantrell Road and one lot in the rear with four office buildings.
A land use plan amendment for a change to Commercial is a separate item on
this agenda (LU04-01-05).
Master Street Plan: Cantrell Road is shown as a Principal Arterial on the Master
Street Plan and may require dedication of right-of-way and street improvements.
The primary function of a Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to
connect major traffic generators or activity centers within urbanized areas.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not
located in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood
action plan
Landscape: Areas set-aside for buffers and landscaping meet with ordinance
requirements.
A 6 -foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side directed
outward, a wall or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the southern and
western perimeters of the site.
An irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
Prior to a building permit being issued, it will be necessary to provide landscape
plans stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape Architect.
The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many trees as
4
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-7700
feasible on this property. Extra credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance
requirements can be given when properly preserving trees of 6 -inch caliper or
larger.
A tree count of trees 6 -inch caliper or larger should be provided within the
proposed 40 -foot wide southern perimeter land use buffer. This buffer should be
labeled as an undisturbed area. Temporary fencing must be in place to protect
trees prior to site work taking place.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (September 16 2004)
Mr. Robert Brown and Mr. Charles Basham were present representing the
request. Staff stated the item was a deferred item from the August 26, 2004,
public hearing and the applicant had requested to discuss the item before the
Subdivision Committee prior to the public hearing. Staff noted all comments
were previously given to the applicant and the applicant had addressed most of
the issues.
Staff stated the site had a history of drainage complaints. Staff questioned the
proposed detention. Mr. Brown stated detention would be handled from a
detention basin located near Cantrell Road. Mr. Brown stated there was not a
defined channel, just surface flow through the site. He stated a small portion of
the site would drain to the southwest along an existing drainage basin.
Mr. Brown stated landscaping comments had been addressed. He stated the
development would include the placement of the required buffer and screening.
He stated in addition a row of evergreen plantings would be added to the rear of
the buildings to further screen the development from the adjoining single-family
homes.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the
item to the full Commission for final action.
H. ANALYSIS:
The applicant has submitted a revised site plan indicating four single story office
buildings on proposed Lot 3. The applicant has also indicated a 10,200 square
foot retail building on Lot 2 and has indicated Lot 1 will be held for future
commercial development. The applicant is requesting the approval of a three lot
plat in conjunction with the PCD zoning request. The applicant has indicated Lot
1 will contain 1.26 acres, Lot 2 will contain 1.66 acres and Lot 3 will contain 3.57
acres. The Highway 10 Design Overlay District typically requires a two acre
minimum lot size for development. Through the Planned Development process,
sites containing less than two acres may be developed.
5
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-7700
The applicant has indicated signage on the proposed site plan consistent with
signage allowed in the Highway 10 Design Overlay District for Lots 1 and 2. The
applicant has indicated a single sign located on each of the proposed lots
abutting Cantrell Road a maximum of six feet in height and seventy-two square
feet in area. The applicant has indicated each of the buildings on Lot 3 will have
a single ground mounted sign a maximum of six feet in height and sixty-four
square feet in area. The ordinance typically allows a single sign for each
individual lot.
The applicant has indicated the proposed development of the site as an office
and retail development. The proposed uses requested in the application are as
follows: Lots 1 & 2 are proposed to have the following commercial uses: Antique
shop, with repair, Auto parts and accessories, Bakery or confectionery shop,
Bank or savings and loan office, Barber and beauty shop, Beverage shop, Book
and stationery store, Butcher shop, Camera shop, Cigar, tobacco and candy
store, Clinic (medical, dental or optical), Clothing store, Community welfare or
health center, Custom sewing and millinery, Day nursery or day care center,
Drugstore or pharmacy, Duplication shop, Eating place without drive-in service,
Establishment of a religious, charitable or philanthropic organization, Feed store,
Florist shop, Food store, Furniture store, Handicraft, ceramic sculpture or similar
artwork, Hardware or sporting goods store, Health studio or spa, Hobby shop,
Jewelry store, Job printing, lithographer, printing or blueprinting, Key shop,
Laboratory, Dry Cleaners or pickup station, Lawn and garden center, enclosed,
Library, art gallery, museum or similar public use, Lodge or fraternal organization,
Medical appliance fittings and sales, Office (general and professional), Office
equipment sales and service, Optical shop, Paint and wallpaper store, Pet shop,
Photography studio, Retail uses not listed (enclosed), School (business), School
(commercial, trade, or craft), Shoe repair, Studio (art, music, speech, drama,
dance or other artistic endeavors), Studio broadcasting and recording, Tailor,
Tool and equipment rental (inside display only), Travel bureau.
Lot 3 is to be limited to the following general office uses: Bank or savings and
loans office, Clinic (medical, dental or optical), Duplication shop, Establishment of
religious, charitable or philanthropic organization, Laboratory, Lodge or fraternal
organization, Mortuary or funeral home, Office (general or professional),
Photography studio, School (business), School (public or denominational), Studio
(broadcasting and recording), Studio (art, music, speech, drama, dance or other
artistic endeavors), Travel bureau. The applicant is also requesting accessory
uses allowed under 0-3 zoning up to ten percent of the total floor area for Lot 3.
The applicant has indicated the days and hours of operation for the office
development will be from 7:00 am and 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday only.
Lot 1 is proposed to have limited hours of operation and may be open between
the hours of 5:00 am and 2:00 am seven days per week. Lot 2 is proposed to
have limited hours of operation between 6:00 am and 11:00 pm seven days per
A
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-7700
week.
The applicant has provided the following phasing plan for proposed Lot 3. The
southern two buildings will be completed within 1.5 to 2 years following approval.
The other two buildings would be completed within 3 to 4 years following
approval. The applicant has indicated if a development is secured for Lot 1 the
PCD will be revised to indicate the building footprint, parking and landscaped
areas.
Staff is not supportive of the applicants request. The site is located in an area,
shown as Transition on the Citys Future Land Use Plan, which does not allow for
commercial development. Staff feels the development is too far west of an
existing commercial node and does not feel the expansion of this node is
appropriate at this time. Staff feels the site should be developed with uses
allowed in the Transition category of the Future Land Use Plan to allow a step
down from the commercial node located at the intersection of Taylor Loop Road
and Cantrell Road. Staff feels the placement of the four office buildings on the
rear of the site is appropriate but also feels the front two lots should also be
developed with office uses. Staff would also question some of the requested
uses for the proposed office site. Staff does not feel a mortuary or funeral home,
studio (broadcasting and recording) or lodge or fraternal organization are
appropriate uses for the site.
In addition, the applicant has indicated the development of the site with a three
lot plat, two of which are less than the minimum square footage required by the
Highway 10 Design Overlay District. Staff feels the development of these two
lots with less than the minimum acreage required will erode the corridor. Staff
feels the site should be developed as an office development limiting the
commercial uses to those allowed in office zones or ten percent of the gross floor
area.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends denial of the request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (AUGUST 26, 2004)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were no registered
objectors present. Staff stated the applicant was working with them to resolve
outstanding technical issues associated with the proposed site plan. Staff presented a
recommendation the item be deferred to the October 7, 2004, Public Hearing to allow
the applicant additional time to resolve the outstanding issues.
There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion to place the
7
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 [Cont.
FILE NO.: Z-7700
item for inclusion on the consent agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote of
9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (OCTOBER 7, 2004)
Mr. Randy Frazier was present representing the applicant. There were registered
objectors present. Staff stated the applicant had submitted a request dated October 4,
2004, requesting this item be deferred to the December 2, 2004, Public Hearing. Staff
stated the request would require a waiver of the By -Laws for the late deferral request.
Staff stated they were supportive of the applicant's request.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion to place
the item on the Consent Agenda for deferral. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes,
0 noes and 2 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
The applicant submitted a revised plan to staff and revised the list of requested uses for
the proposed development. The revised site plan includes the placement of a 13,600
square foot office building on proposed Lot 2 and the placement of four buildings
totaling 40,000 square feet of office on proposed Lot 3. The applicant has indicated
Lots 1 and 2 will be developed with entirely 0-3, General Office uses with no allowance
for accessory uses. The applicant is requesting to concentrate the allowable ten
percent commercial activities, typically allowed for 0-3 zoned properties, on proposed
Lot 1. The applicant has indicated a maximum of 5,300 square feet of accessory retail
will be located in the proposed building for Lot 1.
The applicant is now requesting Lots 2 and 3 be allowed 0-3, General Office uses with
no accessory or conditional uses. The applicant is requesting the 5300 square foot
building on Lot 1 be allowed 0-3, General Office uses; 0-3 accessory uses; plus the
following commercial uses: Bakery, Specialty foods, Butcher shop, Commercial
catering, Store or studio for artwork or ceramics or handicraft, Hardware store, Sporting
goods store, Medical support services, Office equipment sales and service, Optical
shop, Paint and wallpaper store, Video rental store, and Window treatments and/or
interior decorator shop with no limit on the percentages.
The applicant has indicated the proposed drainage will run along the south side of
Cantrell Road and carry storm water directly to the creek channel west of the site,
instead of releasing it at the western edges of the site. The applicant has indicated it
may also be possible to accomplish this by connecting to the existing drainage facilities
existing along Cantrell Road.
0
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7700
The site plan includes the placement of an eight foot wood fence along the southern
and eastern perimeters to act as screening were adjacent to residentially zoned
properties. The applicant as also included the placement of a 48 -foot buffer along the
southern boundary to act as a buffer to the adjoining single-family neighborhood. The
site plan includes the placement of 36 -feet of undisturbed buffer area and 8 -feet of
landscaping to be replanted with evergreen shrubs such as southern magnolias that are
eight feet in height, and branched full to the ground. The Highway 10 Design Overlay
District typically requires a 40 -foot rear yard buffer. The proposed buffer exceeds the
minimum ordinance requirement by 20 percent.
Staff is not supportive of the proposed development. The development is proposed as
a three lot plat with a mixture of office and commercial uses. The applicant is proposing
Lot 1 to potentially be developed as 100 percent commercial. Staff does not feel the
intent of the Mixed Office Commercial Land Use designation is to allow lots within a
development to develop independently as a retail development and two office lots. Staff
feels the intent of a Mixed Office Development is to allow a truly mixed development
within the buildings and without independent lots. As staff previously indicated staff is
supportive of the site developing as an office development and the individual buildings
being allowed ten percent accessory uses but not of concentrating the commercial
activity on one lot within the development.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 2, 2004)
Mr. Robert Brown was present representing the request. There were registered
objectors present. Staff presented the item indicating the request had been amended to
a POD. Staff stated the applicant was now requesting an office development with 0-3
uses being allowable uses and the allowable ten percent accessory uses listed with no
more than ten percent of the gross floor area in each building. Staff stated the building
foot print for Lot 1 had not been determined and an amendment would be sought when
development plans were secured. Staff stated the request was consistent with the
City's Future Land Use Plan and consistent with the requirements of the Highway 10
Design Overlay District. Staff presented a recommendation of approval of the request.
Mr. Robert Brown addressed the Commission on the merits of the proposed request.
He stated the proposed site contained 6.6 acres. He stated of the 6.6 acres 1.56 acres
were being held as buffers for adjoining properties. He stated there had been several
revisions to the proposed request. He stated there had been two meetings with the
neighborhood and some of their request had been included in the proposed request.
He stated the neighborhood was requesting a 75 to 100 -foot buffer along the southern
perimeter similar to the commercial development to the east. He stated Harvest Foods
was developed as a commercial development and the 100 -foot buffer made sense to
protect the neighborhood. He stated the request before the Commission currently was
an office development not a commercial development. He stated the proposed site plan
included the placement of a 48 -foot setback with 36 -feet remaining undisturbed.
9
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-7700
He stated he was well aware of the flooding problems the neighborhood suffered. He
stated the developer had committed to pipe the water from the site to Cantrell Road. He
stated only a small portion of the site would continue to drain to the south. He stated
there was an existing drainage way along the western edge of the property, which
would be handled by canalization or piping around the southern perimeter and along the
western property line.
He stated the developer had agreed to place additional plantings within the buffer area
both in the disturbed and undisturbed areas. He stated a six foot fence would also be
placed along the retaining wall to add additional screening. He stated the buffer area
contained mature trees, which did not allow for under growth. He stated the developer
had also agreed to not place any HVAC units on the rears of the buildings adjacent to
the single-family subdivision.
Mr. Robbie Linn addressed the Commission in opposition of the proposed request. He
stated his home was located at 14 Westchester Court immediately south of the
proposed development. He stated the neighborhood had very little notice of the
proposed changes to the request. He provided pictures of the proposed development
and the indicated buffer areas. He also provided an elevation of the proposed building
height in relation to the proposed single-family homes. He stated the proposed
development would tower above the homes with little buffer or screening. Mr. Linn
stated the retaining wall would be 24 -feet in height and the buildings would be 15 -feet in
height. He stated the buildings would be 40 -feet above the homes. He stated the
lighting would then be 50 to 60 -feet above the neighboring homes.
Mr. Linn stated he disagreed with staff concerning the compatibility of the proposed
request. He stated according to the City codes proposed developments were to provide
for a transition between adjoining uses and not be used for the sole benefit of the
applicant. He stated he felt the proposed development would adversely affect the
quality of life of the adjoining property owners and he felt the request did not comply
with the existing codes and ordinances. Mr. Linn stated the neighborhood was
requesting a 100 -foot buffer similar to the buffer provided by Harvest Foods. He stated
the site contained 53 parking spaces more than was typically required by ordinance. He
stated with the removal of the additional parking spaces additional buffers could be
provided. He also requested the developer provide a detailed drainage analysis prior to
approval to ensure the drainage proposed was adequate to handle the development
and run-off.
Mr. Bob Altof addressed the Commission in opposition of the proposed request. He
stated planning was for the past, present and future. He stated the City was aware of
the neighborhood's flooding problems. He stated the subdivision's drainage was listed
on the City's un -funded infrastructure improvement list. He stated it was important to
address the existing problems before approving a plan which would provide additional
drainage problems.
10
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-7700
Mr. William Ripple addressed the Commission in opposition of the proposed request.
He stated the property currently drained to the northeast. He stated the proposed
development would directly affect the existing drainage of the site. He stated the water
flow would be impeded with the proposed buffer. He stated if the buffer were increased
to 100 -feet the drainage concerns could be minimized.
Mr. Nathan Culp addressed the Commission in opposition of the proposed request. He
stated he was President of the Westbury Neighborhood Association. He stated the
neighborhood was opposed to the development of the site as intensely as requested.
He stated the primary concerned with for the quality of life of the area residents. He
stated two buildings containing 10,000 square feet each sitting on top of a 24 -foot
retaining wall would not contribute to the quality of life of the area residents.
Mr. Robert Brown stated the drainage plan was part of the PZD request. He stated the
proposal was to take six to six and one-half acres out of the existing watershed. He
stated water would be collected and piped to Cantrell Road. He stated the retaining
walls would be poured in place walls for the building foundation and architectural blocks
could be used in the other locations.
There was a general discussion concerning the proposed development and the
indicated retaining walls. Staff stated the walls would require a variance to allow the
indicated height. Mr. Brown stated he was willing to terrace the walls and provide an
additional ten feet of building setback to provide the required ten foot bench. Mr. Brown
stated landscaping would be placed on the bench to provide additional screening. The
Commission questioned the required landscaping. Staff stated the spacing would be
fifteen feet with two inch caliper trees and also shrubs put in place to break the massing
of the wall. Staff stated both the lower and upper terraces would require plantings.
A motion was made to approve the request as amended. The amendment included the
placement of additional plantings within the buffer both the disturbed and undisturbed
areas, the uses of the site be limited to 0-3 uses and the allowable accessory uses
limited to ten percent of the gross floor area of each building, the placement of
architectural blocks limited to a maximum wall height of fifteen feet with a ten foot
terrace to be planted with trees on a minimum of 15 -foot centers and additional shrubs,
and the planting of trees and shrubs on the top of the terrace and a six foot fence with
the face side directed outward. The motion failed by a vote of 5 ayes, 4 noes and
2 absent. -
11
December 2, 2004
ITEM NO.: B FILE NO.: LU04-01-05
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment - River Mountain Planning District
Location: South side of Cantrell Road west of Taylor Loop Road
Request: Transition to Commercial
Source: Charles Basham
PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Land Use Plan amendment in the River Mountain Planning District from
Transition to Commercial. The Commercial category includes a broad range of
retail and wholesale sales of products, personal and professional services, and
general business activities. Commercial activities vary in type and scale,
depending on the trade area that they serve. The applicant desires to develop
the property with commercial uses at the front of the property fronting Cantrell
Road and office uses on the rear half of the property.
Staff is not expanding the application since the Land Use Plan in this area was
reviewed within 12 months.
EXISTING LAND USE AND ZONING:
The property is vacant currently zoned R-2, Single Family, and is 6.7 acres t in
size. Bordering this property on the north and running northwest is Highway
10/Cantrell Road. The land directly north of Cantrell Road is zoned R2 with two
homes and several outbuildings. Northwest of the property are several homes
on large lots zoned POD, Planned Office Development and PDO, Planned
Development Office, which have uses of residential, offices and a bank. Further
to the northeast is a Walgreen's store zoned PDC and a development zoned C3,
General Commercial District, anchored by a hardware store and other small
businesses. Directly to the east of the site is a PCD with a large antique and
home furnishings store. Further east are POD, Planned Office Development,
PDO, Planned Development Office, and even farther east are areas zoned as R2
and PCD. These uses include banks, a church, offices, a hair salon, an animal
clinic and single-family homes. South and east of the property is a R2 zone
developed with single-family homes. A little further south and east is vacant land
zoned PR for parks and recreational use.
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN AND RECENT AMENDMENTS:
On April 6, 2004, a change was made from Transition to Commercial about a
quarter mile northeast of the applicants property to accommodate proposed
development.
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B Cont. FILE NO.: LU04-01-05
On August 19, 2003 a change was made from Transition to Commercial to about
a half mile to the northwest of the property to accommodate a proposed
development.
On February 18, 2003 multiple changes were made within a 1 mile radius of the
project site recognize existing conditions. These include Transition to Suburban
Office north of the site, Transition to Single Family about quarter mile west of the
site, Transition to Commercial about a half mile east of the site and on the
opposite side of Cantrell Road, and Transition to Single family about one mile
due east of the site.
MASTER STREET PLAN:
Cantrell Road is shown as a Principal Arterial on the plan. Cantrell Road is built
as a five -lane road through that area. East of the property is Taylor Loop Road
and further east is Pinnacle Valley, both Minor Arterials, which are built below
standard. The primary function of the Principal Arterial, Cantrell Road, is to serve
through traffic and to connect major traffic generators or activity centers within
urbanized areas. A Minor Arterial provides connections to and though an urban
area and their primary function are to provide short distance travel within the
urbanized area not to provide access.
PARKS:
There are no parks immediately adjacent or accessible to this property. To the
south and east of the property is Taylor Loop Community Park. Taylor Loop is
an undeveloped park consisting of 35.0 acres and is separated from the property
by a street lined with single-family homes. Running through the park is a creek.
This area is not in a "Service Deficit Area".
HISTORIC DISTRICTS:
There are no city recognized historic districts that would be affected by this
amendment.
CITY RECOGNIZED NEIGHBORHOOD ACTION PLAN:
The area under review is located near the western edge of the River Mountain
Neighborhood plan. The Sustainable Natural Environment goal listed one
objective relative to this case: "to promote vigorous enforcement of Landscaping
and Excavation Ordinance." The Infrastructure goal also listed an objective
relevant to this case: "ensuring that roads are supportive of all transportation
modes."
2
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU04-01-05
To address the Sustainable Natural Environmental Goal for the neighborhood
trees need to be preserved at the edge of properties in order to buffer different
uses and runoff needs to be controlled. The property is located on a Principal
Arterial and access points must be minimized to ensure that the guidelines for
the Infrastructure goal are met.
ANALYSIS:
The Land Use Plan identifies this area as Transition. New development has
occurred immediately northeast of Highway 10/Cantrell Road and Taylor Loop
Road intersection in a C3 zoned area, as well as new development just east of
Pinnacle Valley. The Future Land Use Plan shows a concentration of
commercial uses located at the intersection of Taylor Loop and Cantrell Roads.
Presently Highway 10/Cantrell Road has a node system in place. The existing
Commercial node at Taylor Loop Road and Highway 10/Cantrell Road has 19.5
acres zoned for Commercial while the Land Use Plan recognizes 17.6 t acres
available for Commercial uses. Amending this site would increase commercial
zoning about 36% in the area and increase Commercial uses on the Land Use
Plan by about 34%. Nodes on Highway 10/Cantrell Road are focused at major
intersections. This Commercial node is focused at the Taylor Loop Road
intersection and this change would result in an expansion of the existing node.
The Land Use Plan identifies this area as Transition. Single Family lies directly
south of the site and Commercial directly east. Most Transition areas along
Highway 10/Cantrell Road were created to recognize that the area was not going
to stay residential, and would allow some densification of use while being
compatible with existing homes in the area. This particular area of Transitional
use area could now be recognized as a buffer between the two uses of different
intensities immediately adjacent to this property, Commercial and Single Family.
Located in the Commercial area is an antique and home furnishings store that
backs directly to homes in a Single Family area. The back of the store is visible
on Westchester Drive from Taylor Loop Road to Westchester Cove
(approximately five single family homes) even with the existing ten -foot natural
buffer. In ideal circumstances Commercial uses will not back directly on a
Single Family area with a small natural buffer, instead the buffer will be a use of
less intensity. In this case some of the buffer has been lost and minimized as a
result of the existing PCD, so it is important that the remainder is preserved.
Amending the land use plan would further decrease the buffer between the
area's Commercial and Single Family areas even more and would put two uses
adjacent to each other with a minimal natural buffer in place.
However, in the general area there is vacant land shown as Commercial on the
Land Use Plan and zoned for Commercial development. It is questionable that
3
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU04-01-05
Commercial development of this property is justifiable because property is readily
available for this type of development in nearby existing commercial areas.
Furthermore, commercial development of this property along Highway
10/Cantrell Road could create pressure to develop land west and north of this
property with commercial uses, expanding the commercial node and decreasing
buffers with Single Family areas.
A study involving the Highway 10/Cantrell Road corridor will be started soon
analyzing the area's Land Use Plan and determine what types of land uses will
be appropriate for this section of Little Rock. This study will take inventory of
existing uses, growth patterns, and identify the need and appropriateness of
specific land uses along the Highway 10 corridor. This study will provide
guidance on future land use decisions in the area.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
Notices were sent to the following: Walton Heights-Candlewood Neighborhood
Association, Pleasant Valley Property Owners Association, Pankey Community
Improvement Association, Pleasant Forest Neighborhood Association Pleasant
Forest Neighborhood Association, Westbury Neighborhood Association,
Westchester/Heatherbrae Property Owners Association, Secluded Hills Property
Owners Association, Piedmont Neighborhood Association, and River Valley
Property Owners Association. Staff has received one comment from an area
resident of neutral nature.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff requests that this item be deferred to the October 7, 2004 agenda due to
lack of information being provided by applicant.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (AUGUST 26, 2004)
The item was placed on the consent agenda for deferral to the October 7, 2004
Planning Commission meeting. A motion was made to approve the consent
agenda and was approved with a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
The applicant has met with the Westchester Neighborhood Association, which
has resulted in a site plan change. This does not change the application as filed.
0
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU04-01
At the present time the Planning Staff is reviewing the Land Use Plan along
Highway 10, which includes this site upon request of the Board of Directors. The
Highway 10 Land Use Review's intent is to address specific demand for uses in
specific locations and identify appropriate locations for different uses between
Pankey and the Joe T. Robinson School's. The review has just begun and the
Planning Staff is still receiving information on the current Highway 10 Land Use
Plan. Any change at this time would be premature and possibly detrimental to
the study effort.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (OCTOBER 7, 2004)
The item was placed on the consent agenda for deferral to the December 2,
2004 Planning Commission meeting. A motion was made to wavier the by-laws
for a five-day notice to defer prior to the Planning Commission meeting. The
motion was made and approved with a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes, and 2 absent. A
motion was made to approve the consent agenda and was approved with a vote
of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent.
STAFF UPDATE:
The applicant has contacted Staff and amended the Land Use Plan Amendment
to better reflect the current application. The applicant now requests a change
from Transition to Mixed Office Commercial and Suburban Office. This applicant
requests the northern half fronting Cantrell Road as Mixed Office and
Commercial (MOC) and the southern half as Suburban Office. The MOC
category provides for a mixture of office and commercial uses to occur.
Acceptable uses are office or mixed office and commercial, and a Planned
Zoning District is required if the use is mixed office and commercial. The
Suburban Office category provides for low intensity development of office or
office parks in close proximity to lower density residential areas and to assure
compatibility a Planned Zoning District is also required.
Since the initial application, staff has received 45 comments relating to the Land
Use Plan Amendment. All 45 comments were negative in nature with over 80%
(37 comments) in support of the existing Transition land use category and 10
comments recommending a compromise regarding the office use closest to the
existing single family subdivision. Their suggestion was a 100 foot wooded
buffer separating the properties from the proposed development similar to the
buffer set by the construction of the current David Claiborne / Victorian Garden
building over fifteen years ago. As part of the Transition land use category,
proposals are to be "compatible with the quality of life in nearby residential
5
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B(Cont.)FILE NO.: LU04-01-05
areas." The buffer proposed by the adjacent neighborhood is a request that can
be strengthened with the existing Transition land use category due to its
neighborhood compatibility clause. Staff has not received any new comments
about the revised application; however, the applicant is scheduled to meet with
the Westchester Neighborhood Association, which might result in additional
comments.
The applicant's new request more accurately reflects the type of development
that will be on the site. Suburban Office requires a Planned Zoning District (PZD)
and this change would continue the requirement of a PZD for new non-residential
developments, while the Mixed Office Commercial also will require a PZD for this
application since it includes commercial activity. In an area shown as
Transition, office uses are allowed, and some office uses allow up to 10% of
commercial accessory uses that are "clearly incidental to the primary use." In
this particular case the applicant has concentrated his commercial uses on one
lot creating an area of commercial that is not "clearly incidental" to the primary
office uses, which has resulted in this Land Use Plan Amendment to MOC. The
addition of MOC to this area could result in additional commercial activities
focused offsite, not the nearby office uses, resulting in an expansion of
commercial activities west on Cantrell Road. Showing this area as Mixed Office
Commercial will add 4 acres t of potential commercial activity to the area. This
would be a 20% increase and could be viewed as a catalyst for future
commercial expansion west of the Taylor Loop and Cantrell Road commercial
node.
A change to Suburban Office for the southern half of the site is not necessary
because the applicant's office activity is an allowed use in the Transition area.
This amendment would remove the possibility of multifamily or single family
development in this area.
Staff feels that the existing Transition in this area will allow for developments to
be more compatible with the surrounding low intensity developments and
provides for a step down in intensity from the Taylor Loop and Cantrell Road
commercial node. Since the purpose of Transition is to provide "an orderly
transition between residential uses and other more intense uses," keeping this
category will allow for development compatible with the nearby uses. At this
present time independent commercial use is not appropriate for this site, and the
existing Transition category allows for the applicant's office development. Staff
recommends denial of the amended Land Use Plan Amendment.
L
December 2, 2004
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: B fCQnt.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:
FILE NO.: L.U04-01-05
(DECEMBER 2, 2004)
The item was placed on the consent agenda for withdrawal. A motion was made
to approve the consent agenda and was approved with a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes
and 2 absent.
7
ITEM NO.: 27.1 FILE NO.: (Z-7700)
NAME: Basham Cantrell Long -form PCD
LOCATION: located South of Cantrell Road, West of Taylor Loop Road
Planning Staff Comments:
1. Provide notification of property owners located within 200 -feet of the site, complete
with the certified abstract list, notice form with affidavit executed and proof of
mailing.
2. The Highway 10 Design Overlay District typically requires a 25 -foot landscape strip
along the side and rear yard setbacks. The Overlay also typically requires a 30 -foot
building setback along the sides and a 40 -foot building setback in the rear. The site
plan indicates both the minimum side yard and rear yard setback.
3. The proposed site plan does not include any signage. Provide details of any
proposed signage along with the location, height and area. The Highway 10 Design
Overlay District typically requires signage to be a maximum of ten feet in height and
100 square feet in area. The design type typically allowed is a single ground
mounted monument style sign located in the front yard landscaped area.
4. Specify the requested uses. Is the site to be utilized as general and professional
office uses only or some listing of 0-1 and/or 0-3 office uses?
5. Is any fencing proposed as a part of the development plan? If so indicate proposed
fencing along with construction materials and height.
6. Provide the days and hours of operation for the proposed use.
7. Provide the maximum building height in the general notes section of the proposed
site plan.
8. Provide a note concerning the proposed screening of the dumpster.
9. A generalized site plan has not been included for proposed Lots 1 and 2 of the
development. As development plans are finalized for each of these lots the site plan
will need to be resubmitted for approval prior to development.
10. Dimension all building setbacks from property lines on the proposed site plan.
11. Provide a phasing plan for the proposed office development or will all the office
buildings be developed at one time.
12.Any site lighting must be low level and directional, directed inward and downward to
not spill over onto adjoining residentially zoned properties or of cause visual clutter
along Highway 10.
13.The Highway 10 Design Overlay District typically requires a minimum lot size of 2
acres. Lots 1 and 2 are proposed as 1.26 and 1.66 acres. Proposed Lot 3 is
indicated at 3.57 acres.
Variance/Waivers: None requested.
Public Works:
1. Cantrell Road is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal arterial.
Dedication of right-of-way 55 -feet from centerline will be required. No survey or
proposed dedication is provided to document compliance.
2. Sidewalks with appropriate handicap ramps are required in accordance with Section
31-175 of the Little Rock Code and the Master Street Plan. All driveways shall be
concrete aprons per City Ordinance.
3. Provide the direction of flow and all storm water flows (Q) entering and leaving the
property and any proposed piping.
4. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Shown the proposed
location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
5. Plans for all, work in the right-of-way shall be submitted for approval prior to start of
work. Obtain barricade permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-way from Traffic
Engineering at (501) 379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield) and AHTD, District 6.
6. A grading permit in accordance with Section 29-186 (c) and (d) will be required prior
to any land clearing or grading activities at the site. Site grading and drainage plans
will need to be submitted and approved prior to the start of construction.
7. Prepare a letter of pending development addressing streetlights as required by
Section 31-403 of the Little Rock Code of Ordinances. Contact Traffic Engineering
at (501) 379-1813 (Steve Philpott) for more information.
8. Show cross -access easement for properties to the east and west.
Utilities and Fire Department/County Planning:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required with easements if service is required
for the project. Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional
information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center -Point Energy- Approved as submitted.
SBC: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the
time of request for water service must be met. A Capital Investment Charge based on
the size of connection(s) will apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee
will apply to all connections including metered connections off the private fire system. A
water main extension will be required in order to provide service to this property. On site
fire protection will be required. This development will have minor impact on the existing
water distribution system. Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate
pressure and fire protection.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department
at 918-3752 for additional information.
County Pianning: No comment.
CATA: No comment received.
Planning Division: This request is located in the Chenal Planning District. The Land
Use Plan shows Transition for this property. The applicant has applied for a Planned
Commercial Development for three lots with two lots with commercial uses fronting on
Cantrell Road and one lot in the rear with four office buildings.
A land use plan amendment for a change to Commercial is a separate item on this
agenda.
Master Street Plan: Cantrell Road is shown as a Principal Arterial on the
Master Street Plan and may require dedication of right-of-way and street improvements.
The primary function of a Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect
major traffic generators or activity centers within urbanized areas.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not located
in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood action plan
Landscape_ Areas set-aside for buffers and landscaping meet with ordinance
requirements.
A 6 -foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side directed outward,
a wall or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the southern and western
perimeters of the site.
An irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
Prior to a building permit being issued, it will be necessary to provide landscape plans
stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape Architect.
The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many trees as feasible on
this property. Extra credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance requirements can be
given when properly preserving trees of 6 -inch caliper or larger.
A tree count of trees 6 -inch caliper or larger should be provided within the proposed 40 -
foot wide southern perimeter land use buffer. This buffer should be labeled as an
undisturbed area. Temporary fencing must be in place to protect trees prior to site work
taking place.
Revised playplan. Submit four (4) copies of a revised preliminary plan (to include the
additional information as noted above) to staff on Wednesday, August 11, 2004.