HomeMy WebLinkAboutZ-8056 Staff AnalysisAugust 3, 2006
NAME: Sonic Restaurant — John Barrow Road Short -form PCD
LOCATION: Located at 1619 John Barrow Road
DEVELOPER:
Sonic Corporation
300 Johnny Bench Drive
Oklahoma City, OK 73104
ENGINEER:
CEI Engineering
Ross Merking
3317 S.W. "I" Street
Bentonville, AR 72712
AREA: 5 acres
CURRENT ZONING
ALLOWED USES:
PROPOSED ZONING:
PROPOSED USE
NUMBER OF LOTS: 2
0-3, General Office District
FILE NO.: Z-8056
F -r. NEW STREET: 0 LF
General and Professional Office Uses
PCD and 0-3, General Office District
Drive-in restaurant and Future development
VARIANCESANAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
A. PROPOSAL:
The request is to rezone approximately one (1) acre of this five (5) acre lot from
0-2 to PCD to allow the creation of a separate lot for the development of a
restaurant with drive-in facilities. The proposal includes the construction of a
1,557 square foot Sonic Restaurant. The facility is proposed with outdoor dining
consisting of eight to ten tables located along the street side of the building. The
site plan also includes the placement of twenty (20) drive-in stalls along the south
side of the building in two (2) locations each covered with a canopy. Seven
parking spaces have been indicated on the site plan with six parking spaces
indicated for future development.
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E.1 [Cont.] FILE NO.: Z-8050
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is a part of a larger five acre lot which is wooded with the property to the
north sloping from north to south. This portion of the site is comparatively flat
related to the overall site. There is a church located to the south. Of the overall
larger tract the areas to the north and east are not a part of the current
application request and will remain undeveloped and wooded. A preliminary plat
will subdivide the five acres, creating a one acre lot for the proposed Sonic
Restaurant. There is a multi -family development located to the east and
commercial uses located to the north of the large tract. Across John Barrow
Road is also a multi -family development.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, Staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents, many indicating support of the request. The John Barrow
Neighborhood Association, the Brownwood Terrace Neighborhood Association,
the Penbrook/Clover Hill Property Owners Association, all residents who could
be identified located within 300 feet of the site and all property owners located
within 200 -feet of the site were notified of the Public Hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
Public Works:
1. John Barrow is classified on the Master Street Plan as a minor arterial. A
dedication of right-of-way 45 feet from centerline will be required.
2. All driveways shall be concrete aprons per City Ordinance.
3. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the
public right-of-way prior to occupancy.
4. Plans of all work in 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).
5. 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.
6. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the
proposed location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
7. If disturbed area is one (1) or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water
permit from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the
start of construction.
8. Per City code, crossover lane must be relocated at least 75 feet from right-
of-way line.
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August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.. E.1 (Cont.
FILE NO.: Z-8056
9. Obtain permits prior to doing any street cuts or curb cuts. Obtain barricade
permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-way. Contact Traffic
Engineering at (501) 379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield) for more information.
10. Driveway locations and widths do not meet the traffic access and circulation
requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. The width of driveway must
not exceed 36 feet.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer available on west side of John Barrow Road, Contact Little
Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center -Point Energy: No comment received.
SBC: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: SHOULD BE ODD NUMBER ADDRESS. All Central
Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for water service
must be met. Additional fire hydrant(s) will be required. Contact the Little Rock
Fire Department to obtain information regarding the required placement of the
hydrant(s) and contact Central Arkansas Water regarding procedures for
installation of the hydrant(s). A water main extension may 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: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No comment.
CATH: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Boyle Park Planning District.
The Land Use Plan shows Office for this property. The applicant has applied for
a Planned Commercial District for a restaurant.
A land use plan amendment for a change to Commercial is a separate item on
this agenda.
Master Street Plan: John Barrow Road is shown as an Arterial on the plan. An
Arterial functions to move traffic through and around the urban area or from
activity centers to the Arterial system. They are not intended to provide access to
adjacent land. Right-of-way and street improvements may need to be made at
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August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: EA (Cont.
the time of development.
FILE NO.: Z-8056
Bicycle Plan: The Little Rock Bike Plan does not show any bike routes adjacent
to the site. The closest Bike Route is a Class II Route along 28th Street to the
south.
City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The site is in the John Barrow
Neighborhoods Plan Area. The Plan calls for creation of a development climate
in the John Barrow Neighborhood Area that would attract job -generating
businesses. The Plan also calls for development design standards, but does not
specifically recommend any other than to state that traffic and pedestrian flows
should be improved and efficient.
Landscape:
1. Compliance with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinances is required.
2. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
3. An average of eighteen -foot (18) wide land use buffer is required to
separate this proposed development from the residentially zoned property
on the eastern perimeter of the site. Seventy percent (70%) of these
buffers are to remain undisturbed. Easements cannot count toward
fulfilling this requirement.
4. An average of nine -foot (9) wide land use buffer is required to separate
this proposed development from the residentially zoned property on the
southern perimeter of the site. Seventy percent (70%) of these buffers are
to remain undisturbed. Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this
requirement.
5. The property to the south and the east is zoned residential, therefore, a six
(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 eastern perimeters of the site.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:
(June 1, 2006)
The applicant was present representing the request. Staff presented an
overview of the proposed development indicating there were additional items
necessary to complete the review process. Staff requested the applicant provide
the days and hours of operation and the proposed hours of the indicated
dumpster service. Staff also requested the applicant provide the total percentage
of building coverage, the total area designated to landscaping and the total area
covered with parking.
0
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8056
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated the proposed driveway
was a concern. Staff stated based on the design of the driveway proper turning
movements were not allowed. Staff stated they felt this could potentially cause
conflicting traffic movements on the site as well as the adjoining property. Staff
also stated the width of the driveway should not exceed 36 -feet in width.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated compliance with the City's
Landscape and Buffer Ordinance was required. Staff stated buffering would be
required along the southern perimeter where abutting residentially zoned
property. Staff stated a minimum of seventy (70) percent of this buffer area was
to remain undisturbed. The applicant questioned if a variance could be sought to
allow grading within the buffer area. Staff stated the Planning Commission as a
part of the approval process could approve the request.
Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and
agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information
and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee
then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action.
IC�_1►MAI WIM6.1
The applicant submitted a revised site plan to staff addressing most of the issues
raised at the June 1, 2006, Subdivision Committee meeting. The applicant has
indicated the days and hours of operation, the proposed hours of the indicated
dumpster service, the total percentage of building coverage, the total area
designated to landscaping and the total area covered with parking. The driveway
has also been extended to facilitate traffic movement with the site located to the
north, when developed.
The hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday from 6 am to 12 am and
Friday and Saturday from 6 am to 2 am. The dumpster hours of service are
indicated from 6 am to 12 am daily.
The total site is 43,486 square feet and the building will consume 1,557 square
feet. The total area designated for paving is 23,258 square feet and the area
designated for landscaping is 18,671 square feet. A total of 840 square feet of
outdoor dining is proposed.
The site indicates the placement of twenty (20) drive-in stalls and seven (7)
surface parking stalls. A second phase indicates the addition of six (6) surface
parking stalls should additional parking become necessary. The 840 square feet
of outdoor dining requires eight on-site parking spaces. The proposed Phase II
parking must be constructed with the Phase I portion of the development to
provide parking for employees and the outdoor dining area.
The applicant has indicated shrubs will be planted along the southern property
line to assist in providing a noise barrier between the adjoining church and the
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August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E.1 lC
NO.: Z-8056
new restaurant. The volume of music will be lower during church service and
according to the applicant the gymnasium is located adjacent to the restaurant
which will also act as a sound barrier.
A single pylon sign is proposed in the front yard area not to exceed 36 -feet in
height and 110 square feet in area. Building signage is proposed along the front
of the building not to exceed 18 -square feet in area. The indicated signage is
consistent with signage typically allowed in commercial zones.
The site plan indicates an automatic irrigation system will be installed to water
landscaped areas and plant materials will be installed per minimum ordinance
requirements. The applicant is requesting to grade the entire southern perimeter
of the site removing the required 70 percent undisturbed buffer. A retaining wall
is required in this location and the removal of the buffer is necessary to allow
reasonable grading and to allow proper drainage for the site. The site plan
indicates a 12.5 foot setback from the paving to the property line in this area.
According to the applicant shifting the building to the north to allow the required
buffer is not an option due to increased grades along the northern perimeter.
Staff is supportive of this request.
The revised plan extends the drive from John Barrow Road to allow the
crossover point at 75 -feet. According to the applicant this will facilitate traffic
movements within the site and allow for reduced conflicts when the site to the
north is developed.
The proposal includes the subdivision of this existing lot to allow a four acre
parcel and a one acre parcel. The four acre parcel will be maintained by the
current owners with the one acre parcel being sold to the potential restaurant
developers. Staff is supportive of this request. The indicated lots sizes are
more than adequate to meet the typical minimum standards for office and
commercial zoned property. Staff recommends the applicant provide the
required platting documentation to staff within 60 days of approval by the Board
of Directors.
Staff is supportive of the applicant's request. Staff feels the applicant has done a
good job in minimizing the impacts of the proposed development on adjoining
properties. Although the site plan indicates the removal of the required buffer
along the southern perimeter the applicant has indicated the buffer will be
replanted with shrubs and trees to protect the adjoining church property. The
applicant has also indicated the new restaurant will be sensitive to the adjoining
church and their activities by reducing the volume of their music during church
services and activities. To staff's knowledge there are no outstanding issues
associated with the request. Staff feels the proposed development will be an
asset to the community and should have minimal impact on the adjoining
properties.
[:
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-8056
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the requested preliminary plat and proposed PCD
for Sonic Restaurant subject to compliance with the following conditions:
1. Comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E, F and H of the
above agenda staff report.
2. All parking including the Phase II parking must be constructed in Phase I.
3. The applicant lower the volume of outdoor music played through the
speaker system during church service and church events.
4. Staff recommends the applicant provide the required platting
documentation to staff within 60 days of approval by the Board of
Directors.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 22, 2006)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were registered objectors
present. Staff presented the item indicating the applicant was requesting a deferral of
the item to the July 6, 2006, public hearing. Staff stated the deferral request would
require a waiver of the Commission's By-laws with regard to the late deferral request.
Staff stated they were supportive of the deferral request.
There was no further discussion of the item. A motion was made to approve the By-law
waiver. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes, 1 absent and 1 recusal
(Jeff Yates). A motion was made to approve the deferral request. The motion carried
by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes, 1 absent and 1 recusal (Jeff Yates).
STAFF UPDATE:
The applicant submitted a revised site plan relocating the building from the southern
portion of the property to the northern portion. The revised site plan was reviewed by
Public Works and for compliance with the City's minimum buffer and landscape
ordinances. The following comments are associated with these two reviews:
ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
Public Works:
1. John Barrow is classified on the Master Street Plan as a minor arterial. A
dedication of right-of-way 45 feet from centerline will be required.
2. All driveways shall be concrete aprons per City Ordinance.
3. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the
public right-of-way prior to occupancy.
4. Plans of all work in right-of-way shall be submitted for approval prior to start of
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August 3, 2006
FILE NO.: Z-8056
work. Obtain barricade permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-way from
Traffic Engineering at (501) 379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield).
5. 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.
6. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the proposed
location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
7. If disturbed area is one (1) or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water
permit from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the
start of construction.
8. Per City code, crossover lane must be relocated at least 75 feet from right-of-
way line.
9. Obtain permits prior to doing any street cuts or curb cuts. Obtain barricade
permit prior to doing any work in the right-of-way. Contact Traffic Engineering
at (501) 379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield) for more information.
10. Driveway locations and widths do not meet the traffic access and circulation
requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. The width of driveway must not
exceed 36 feet.
11. Provide a notation indicating the total wall height on the proposed site plan.
Landscape:
1. Compliance with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinances is required.
2. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
3. A nine foot land use buffer is required along the northern property line next to the
residentially zoned property. Seventy percent (70%) of this buffer is to remain
undisturbed. The plan appears to meet this minimum requirement.
4. A nine foot (9) wide perimeter landscaping strip is required along the southern
property line per the landscape ordinance. A variance from this requirement will
require approval from the City Beautiful Commission.
5. A six foot high opaque screen, either a wooden fence with its face side directed
outward, a wall or dense evergreen plantings, is required along the northern
perimeter next to the residentially zoned property.
6. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many trees as
feasible on tree covered sites. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance
requirements may be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or larger.
The Subdivision Committee at their July 13, 2006, committee meeting, reviewed the
revised site plan. The applicant was not present. Staff noted the deficiencies with the
proposed site plan indicating they had contacted the applicant concerning the
deficiencies and the applicant was addressing staff's concerns.
The revised site plan indicates the placement of buffers and landscaping as required by
the City's Landscape Ordinance and the Buffer Ordinance. The applicant has indicated
a nine foot land use buffer along the northern property line, and nine foot perimeter
landscaping strip along the southern property line and note concerning the retaining wall
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E.1 (Coat.
FILE NO.: Z-8056
height. The site plan also indicates the dedication of right-of-way to meet the current
Master Street Plan requirement along John Barrow Road. The driveway width does not
exceed 36 -feet in width and the crossover lane has been relocated to 75 -feet from the
right-of-way line.
Staff is supportive of the proposed request. The proposed development is located just
south of a commercial node with the property located to the north of this site zoned C-3,
General Commercial District. The relocation of the restaurant to the northern portion of
this property allows separation between the proposed use and the church located to the
south. The remainder of the site will remain zoned 0-3, General Office District which
will allow a transition between the commercial uses to the north and the church facility
located to the south.
The proposed site plan occupies only a portion of the tract and the applicant is
proposing the subdivision of the parcel to allow the development to occur. As noted in
the above agenda staff report, the applicant will be required to provide staff with
preliminary plat documentation within 60 days of approval by the Board of Directors to
allow the subdivision activity to take place.
To staff's knowledge there are no outstanding issues associated with the request. Staff
feels the placement of the restaurant on the site as proposed will have minimal impact
on the adjoining properties. As noted in the Analysis Section staff was supportive of the
proposed development when the site plan indicated the development along the
southern portion of the site. Staff continues to recommend approval of the request.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the requested preliminary plat and proposed PCD
for Sonic Restaurant subject to compliance with the following conditions:
5. Compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs
D, E, F and H of the above agenda staff report.
6. All parking including the Phase II parking must be constructed in Phase I.
7. The applicant must lower the volume of outdoor music played through the
speaker system during church service and church events.
8. Staff recommends the applicant provide the required platting
documentation to staff within 60 days of approval by the Board of
Directors.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:
(August 3, 2006)
The applicant was present representing the request. There were registered objectors
present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval. Staff stated the
applicant had indicated the hours of operation for the site would be from 6 am to 12
midnight and not 2 am as indicated in the written agenda.
Mr. Ross Merkling addressed the Commission on behalf of the applicant. He stated the
E
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E.1 (Cont.
FILE NO.: Z-8056
building proposed was 1500 square feet with dine -in and drive-through service. He
stated the building would be constructed of split face block, drivit or hard board siding.
He stated the landscaping would be increased from the minimum ordinance standard to
allow a more attractive site and offer buffering for the church located to the south.
Ms. Betty Snyder addressed the Commission in support of a Sonic Restaurant in the
John Barrow Neighborhood. She stated she had worked with Sonic for five years to
locate in their neighborhood. She stated the location was a concern not the restaurant.
She stated she felt there would be a better suited location for the facility in the
neighborhood. She stated the John Barrow Neighborhood Association did not take an
official vote on the proposed location but most felt the church and Sonic should resolve
the issue of location. Chairman Stebbins stated it appeared she was presenting
comments of opposition. Ms. Snyder stated she was not opposed to a Sonic only the
location of the Sonic since the church had been such a good neighbor and an asset to
the neighborhood.
Mr. Rodney Chandler addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He
stated he was the spokes person for Second Baptist Church which was located to the
south of the proposed restaurant. He stated he did not feel this was an appropriate
location for a restaurant. He stated his research had found that there was not a single
Sonic restaurant located adjacent to a church. He stated the church had been an active
member of the neighborhood for more than 40 years. He stated the church provided
outreach to the neighborhood and made a substantial investment in the neighborhood
when others were not willing to locate in the John. Barrow community. He stated the
church was concerned with the location for a number of reasons one of which the
apartment complex located across the street. He stated a number of children in the
apartment complex were latch -key children. He stated the children would be crossing
John Barrow Road to access the Sonic which would cause safety concerns. He
requested the Commissioners consider how they would feel if the Sonic was located
adjacent to their church home.
Reverend Paul Kelly addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He stated
he was the pastor of Second Baptist Church which currently had approximately 4,000
members in two locations. He stated the membership was opposed to locating a Sonic
next door to their church. He provided the Commissioner with petitions signed by over
1,000 members of the church. He stated the Brownwood Terrace Neighborhood was
also opposed to the request. He stated the neighborhood also had signed a petition
with 35 signatures in opposition of the location of a Sonic next door to their
neighborhood. He stated the church had made a sizable investment in the
neighborhood. He stated he felt the use inappropriate and he was offended that the
Commission was discussing the matter of locating a malt stand next door to a church.
Ms. Doris Wright addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. She stated
she was President of the John Barrow Neighborhood Association and a member of the
Second Baptist Church. She stated the location was a concern. She stated the
neighborhood had worked a number of years to attract a Sonic to their area and was in
full support of the restaurant locating in the area just not in this location. She stated she
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August 3, 2006
TEM NO.: E.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8056
was aware of the reasoning for choosing this site by Sonic because all commercial uses
would like to locate along the Kanis corridor. She stated the church was not originally
opposed to the location because the church was unaware of the restaurant was
considering locating adjacent to their facility. She stated once she found the item was
placed on the Consent Agenda for Approval at the June 22, 2006, public hearing she
approached the pastor and suggested he review the proposed request. She stated
once the church members review the request for the placement of the unattractive
drive-through facility on the site they were not in support of the request. She stated the
apartments were a concern. She stated the children would be crossing the street to
access the Sonic and would cause a safety concern. She also stated the children would
be hanging around the restaurant. She stated the facility located on Cantrell Road in
the Riverdale area was more the style restaurant the neighborhood was looking for.
She requested the Commission consider the petitions, the neighbors present in
opposition and the apartments located across the street when making their decision.
Mr. Larry Gilreath addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He stated he
was the representative of Brownwood Terrace. He stated the subdivision was opposed
to the placement of a malt stand adjacent to their neighborhood and the church facility.
Mr. Bill Walker addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He stated the
neighborhood had enough bad elements including a liquor store and a check cashing
service. He sated the neighborhood did not need another bad element. He stated a
malt stand called a restaurant was not a desirable use for this location.
Mr. Mike Loggins addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. He stated
most of his comments had been made but he felt the Commission should consider the
children before placing the restaurant across from a large apartment complex.
Mr. Marvin Thaxton addressed the Commission in support of the request. He stated his
family owned the 4.7 acres of property currently under consideration and had for over
30 years and long before the church expanded their facility to the present state. He
stated the church had shown no interest in purchasing the property until a contract with
Sonic had been signed. He stated the church was offered the property on a number of
occasions in the past and prior to placing the property under contact with Sonic. He
stated the property was 300 -feet fronting John Barrow Road with the Sonic locating
along the northern portion of the property. He stated the restaurant would occupy 1.7
acres of the 4.7 acre site. He stated the remaining property would be zoned 0-3 as was
currently zoned. He stated the restaurant had committed to being a good neighbor and
the restaurant had a local and national reputation to uphold. He stated the development
was proposed in the mist of a commercial node at Kanis and John Barrow Roads. He
stated John Barrow Road currently had 18,200 vehicles per day traveling along the road
with a number of teens playing loud music riding on the roadway. He stated the church
had expanded their facility not away from John Barrow Road but closer to John Barrow
Road and the traffic noise. He stated with the placement of a restaurant on the site the
traffic would not be greatly increased. He stated the church currently had 4,000
members which would generate a minimum of 1,000 vehicles. He stated the restaurant
traffic would be a drop in the bucket compared to the church. He stated there would be
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August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E_1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8056
no loitering on the site. He stated there were a number of locations that Sonic had
located adjacent to a church. He stated his hometown of Newport, AR was one
example. He asked the Commission meet the request of the community and the John
Barrow Neighborhood Action Plan by approving the request.
Mr. Mike Bailey of Sonic Corporation addressed the Commission. He stated the use
was not the most offensive use that could locate next to a church. He stated there were
a number of uses and restaurants which were much more offensive than a Sonic which
could locate on the site. He stated the developers had worked with the church to
address their concerns and he felt when they left the meeting with the church and
neighborhood association all the issues had been resolved. He stated the location had
been moved and the landscaping enhanced. He stated the restaurant was willing to
reduce the volume of music on the site upon request by the church and providing
substantial buffers along the south. He stated the church and been offered the
remainder of the site at the price paid by Sonic. He stated zoning was put in place to
protect the public health, safety and welfare of the citizens. He stated it was not a tool
for individuals to use for their own gain. He stated the purpose was to give citizens a
voice but not control the use of property.
Commissioner Rahman questioned Mr. Bailey of the type of building construction. He
stated the Sonic Corporation had made a decision to no longer construct the cafe style
restaurants like the one on Cantrell Road. He stated the store would be the current
conventional model of store being constructed nationally. Commissioner Rahman
questioned the future plans for the remaining property. Mr. Bailey stated the property
would be available for sale.
Commissioner Williams questioned staff as to the current Future Land Use classification
and the allowable uses as well as the proposed amendment and the allowable uses.
Staff stated the site was currently shown as MOC or Mixed Office Commercial which
allowed a mixture of office and commercial uses. Staff stated the amendment would
allow residential, office or commercial with a planned development required if the
development were office or commercial.
There was a general discussion concerning the location of the restaurant and the
potential for sound to be heard at the church. Mr. Ross Merkling stated the decibel level
of sound would be very low. He stated the sound of the street was typically at 80db and
the sound 75 to 80 feet into the site was be less than 40db. Mr. Merkling stated the
restaurant use would be less than the street noise. With the discussion it was added
that a typical customer was on the site five to ten minutes. A Sonic representative
stated the goal was for food orders to be served in four minutes or less and drink orders
in two minutes or less. He stated there was no loitering allowed on the site. He stated
the restaurant was focused on moving customers in and out.
There was a general discussion concerning the choice of the proposed location. Mr.
Bailey stated the location was chosen because of the location of the health centers as
well as the proximity to Kanis Road. He stated the health care employee traffic was key
in the choice of locations and he did not feel the medical traffic would travel very far
12
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E.1 [Cont.
down John Barrow for service.
FILE NO.: Z-8056
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
approval of the request. The motion failed by a vote of 3 ayes, 5 noes, 2 absent and 1
recusal (Commissioner Jeff Yates).
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August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E FILE NO.: LU06-10-02
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment - Boyle Park Planning District
Location: West of John Barrow, south of Kanis Road
Request: Mixed Office Commercial to Commercial
Source: Ross Merkling, CEI Engineering
PROPOSAL / REQUEST:
Land Use Plan amendment in the Boyle Park Planning District from Mixed Office
Commercial to Commercial. Commercial represents a broad range of retail and
wholesale sales of products, personal and professional services, and general
business activities. An accompanying request to reclassify the property Planned
District Commercial for a Sonic Drive-in Restaurant has been filed.
Prompted by this Land Use Amendment request, the Planning Staff expanded
the area of review to include area to the north. With these changes, the entirety
of the Mixed Office Commercial area north of the church to the node at Kanis-
John Barrow Road would be eliminated. It is thought that the additional area
would make the boundaries more logical.
EXISTING LAND USE AND ZONING:
The property is vacant and wooded currently zoned 0-3 General Office and is
4.6 acres ± in size. The expanded area is vacant wooded and zoned 0-3. North
of the amendment area is zoned C-3 General Commercial and consists of small
retail uses and centers. This commercial area includes area around the John
Barrow-Kanis Road intersection and is mostly developed. Some land in the
southeast section of the intersection remains wooded and undeveloped. East of
the application area is R-5 Urban Residential and is an apartment complex.
Beyond this to the east is R-2 Single Family land currently vacant and wooded
that is currently under development. South of the amendment area is a Church
zoned R-2 Single Family, 0-1 Quiet Office and 0-3 General Office land that is
vacant. Some is wooded and some of the land is partial cleared. A small area
of R-2 is to the southeast with homes. To the west is R-5 zoning with an
apartment complex; southwest is 0-3 and Planned Office Districts with medical
related uses and a public library. This is a partial developed section of the City.
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU06-10-02
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN AND RECENT AMENDMENTS:
January 10, 2006, a change from Single Family to Transition to allow for future
development. The site was along the south side of Kanis Road, east of Michael.
This is a half -mile to the east of the application area.
October 4, 2005, a change from Mixed Office Commercial to Commercial to allow
for future development. The site was just east of John Barrow Road on the south
side of Kanis Road. This is northeast of the application area.
July 13, 2004, a change from Office and Single Family to Mixed Use to more
accurately reflect the existing zoning and land use pattern. The site was along
the north side of Colonel Glenn Road between Whitfield and Stanus. This is over
a mile to the southeast of the application area.
January 20, 2004, a change from Mixed Use to Commercial to more accurately
reflects the existing zoning and land use pattern. The site was along the south
side of Colonel Glenn Road between Cobb and Walker. This is over a mile to the
southeast of the application area.
November 4, 2002, a change from Commercial, Single Family, Multifamily and
Office to Mixed Office Commercial, Office, Multifamily, Commercial and Low
Density Residential to more accurately reflect the existing land use and zoning
pattern. The site is between 1-630 and Kanis Road, east of John Barrow Road.
This is to the northeast of the application area.
The Land Use Plan shows this area of Mixed Office Commercial. Commercial is
shown to the north around the John Barrow-Kanis Road intersection. To the
northeast is an area of Mixed Office Commercial. To the east is a Multifamily
area followed by a large area of Single Family. West of the amendment area is
shown for Multifamily with Mixed Office Commercial surrounding this to the
northwest and south. South of the application area is a Public Institutional area
followed by Single Family and Office areas.
MASTER STREET PLAN:
John Barrow Road is shown as an Arterial on the plan. An Arterial functions to
move traffic through and around the urban area or from activity centers to the
Arterial system. They are not intended to provide access to adjacent land. Right-
of-way and street improvements may need to be made at the time of
development.
2
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.
BICYCLE PLAN:
FILE NO.: LU06-10-02
The Little Rock Bike Plan does not show any Dike routes adjacent to the site.
The closest Bike Route is a Class II Route along 28th Street to the south.
The Little Rock Parks and Recreation Master Plan indicates the site is within 8 -
blocks of a public or private open space or recreation area.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS:
There are no city recognized historic districts that would be affected by this
amendment.
CITY RECOGNIZED NEIGHBORHOOD ACTION PLAN:
The site is in the John Barrow Neighborhoods Plan Area. The Plan calls for
creation of a development climate in the John Barrow Neighborhood Area that
would attract job -generating businesses. The Plan also calls for development
design standards, but does not specifically recommend any other than to state
that traffic and pedestrian flows should be improved and efficient.
ANALYSIS,
The site is wooded and vacant with a zone of 0-3 General Office. There is a
small commercial center to the north with shops; beyond this is commercial
zoning and land use surrounding the Kanis Road -John Barrow Road intersection.
Both to the east and west (across John Barrow Road) are apartment complexes.
The land further to the west is wooded and zoned R-2 single Family. This land is
currently underdevelopment for a large single-family subdivision. To the south is
a church and small subdivision. Beyond this is vacant mostly wooded 0-3 land.
John Barrow Road is an Arterial. Arterials are functionally to move vehicles and
goods in and through the city not to provide access to adjacent properties.
Traffic counts indicate volumes of 18200 vehicles per day from 2004 for John
Barrow Road. Any use along John Barrow Road should be designed to limit or
prevent direct access to John Barrow Road to facilitate its function.
The most recent construction is to the north. At the intersection a former
commercial structure was removed and a new commercial building was built for a
`tobacco store' and across John Barrow a liquor store was constructed. To the
3
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU06-10-02
south along the west side of John Barrow a new public Library has been added
on a 10 -acre tract. The other existing commercial structures have a good
occupancy rate.
Most of the office construction has been along Kanis Road to the west of this
site. This construction has tended to be medical in nature and near the Baptist
Hospital campus on Kanis Road. As noted early the infrastructure is being
constructed for a new single-family subdivision to the east of this site. While
these additions have been steady they have occurred at a gradual rate.
As mentioned, there is an existing multifamily apartment complex adjacent to the
east. A commercial use (hours of operation, outside activities, traffic areas,
waste disposal issues and signage, etc.) could be detrimental. A change from
Mixed Office Commercial to Commercial could allow future uses which could
result in negative impacts on the existing residential development. The existing
Land Use classification would allow some commercial development using the
Planned Zoning District with Office uses. Through this review the City could
attempt to eliminate any negative impacts on the existing development.
There are existing commercial uses to the north of this site. With the current
Land Use designation staff has indicated that some commercial use of this site
could be appropriate. With a church to the south and apartments to the east and
west, design and the type of commercial uses could be significant. Careful
design and consideration of the appropriate types of commercial is important.
With a change to Commercial the City would not be in a position to attempt to
address these issues. Mixed Office Commercial does not allow a completely
commercial development. Staff is not necessarily apposed to a one hundred
percent commercial development along this portion of John Barrow Road, if
access, signage and other issues can be worked out. Therefore staff cannot
support a change to Commercial, however a change of the front (western) half to
Mixed Use could be supported by Staff. This would continue the possibility of
some office and also allows for closer review of the proposed future development
of the site.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
Notices were sent to the following associations: Twin Lakes B Prop. Owners
Association, as well as Brownwood Terrace, John Barrow and Twin Lakes "A"
Neighborhood Associations. Staff has received no comments from area
residents.
2
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU06-10-02
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff believes the change is not appropriate. A change to Mixed Use for the front
(western) half of the site can be supported. This alternate change would better
protect the existing adjacent uses.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 22, 2006)
The application was placed on consent agenda to July 6, 2006. With a vote of
10 for, 0 against and 1 absent, the consent agenda was approved.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 6, 2006)
The applicant requested this item be deferred to work out issues. The item was
placed on the consent agenda for deferral. By a vote of 9 for and 0 against the
consent agenda was approved.
TAFF UPDATE:
(July 6, 2006)
The applicant has proposed a change to the Planned Commercial District
accompanying this item, however no change to the Land Use Plan is proposed.
Staff remains in support of the requested change to Mixed Use along John
Barrow Road.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (August 3, 2006)
Walter Malone, Planning Staff reviewed the request. Mr. Malone indicated to the
north was commercial, east and west was Multifamily and the south a Church.
There have been a couple of small commercial businesses constructed to the
north and a new Library to the south. Most of the Office development is along
Kanis Road to the west closer to Baptist Hospital. The Land Use Plan shows
Mixed Office Commercial, thus the City has already said some commercial in this
location would be appropriate. Staff does not believe a total commercial
development would necessarily be inappropriate. However with the surrounding
uses (apartments and church) design is significant. Staff therefore is supportive
of a change to Mixed Use, which allows a review of the development for
appropriateness whether commercial or office.
Donna James, Planning Staff, presented the case for a Planned Commercial
District on a portion of this site. See the minute record for item E.1: Z-8056 for a
5
August 3, 2006
ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU06-10-02
complete minute record. Commissioner Williams asked about the Mixed Use
proposal. Mr. Bozynski, Planning Director, replied that the development could
be commercial, office or residential, using the Planned Zoning District process.
Currently the Plan shows Mixed Office Commercial. Staff does not support the
original request to Commercial, however the application has been amended
to Mixed Use for the western half of the tract. After discussion and
presentations for and against (mostly the Planned District request), a motion was
made to approve the requested Plan change. By a vote of 4 for, 4 against, 2
absent, and 1 recusal the item failed.
D
ITEM NO.: 26.1.
NAME: Sonic Restaurant —John Barrow Road Short -form PCD
LOCATION: located at 1618 John Barrow Road
Planning Staff Comments:
Z-8056
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. The notice must be mailed no later than June 7, 2006. The Office of
Planning and Development must receive the proof of notice no later than June 16,
2006.
2. Provide the days and hours of operation for the proposed facility.
3. Provide a note concerning the required dumpster screening.
4. Will the hours of service for the dumpster be limited? If so indicated on the site plan
the hours of dumpster service.
5. Any site lighting must be low level and directional, directed downward and into the
site not spilling over to the adjacent properties.
6. Could the site be relocated to the north adjacent to the existing commercial uses?
7. Design the site plan to allow for access and circulation thru the site and not have
conflicting movements exiting the drive thru and the drive lane.
8. Provide the percentage of building coverage, landscaped area and paving for the
site.
9. Provide details of how protection will be provided to the adjacent multi -family and the
church related to noise and music from the site.
10. Provide details of any proposed signage including ground mounted and building
signage. For ground -mounted signage provide the location of the proposed signage
along with a note concerning the total height and area. Provide the total building
fagade to be dedicated to signage and the locations of the proposed signs.
11. Is there any fencing being proposed as a part of the development? If so indicated
on the site plan the location of the proposed fencing and a note concerning the total
height and construction material.
12. Provide the total square footage of the outdoor dining area.
VarianceNVaivers,
Public Works Conditions:
1. John Barrow is classified on the Master Street Plan as a minor arterial. A
dedication of right-of-way 45 feet from centerline will be required.
2. All driveways shall be concrete aprons per City Ordinance.
3. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the public
right-of-way prior to occupancy.
Item # 26.1
4. Plans of all work in 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).
5. 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.
6. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the proposed
location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
7. If disturbed area is one (1) or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit
from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
8. Per City code, crossover lane must be relocated at least 75 feet from right-of-way
line.
9. Obtain permits prior to doing any street cuts or curb cuts. Obtain barricade permit
prior to doing any work in the right-of-way. Contact Traffic Engineering at (501)
379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield) for more information.
10. Driveway locations and widths do not meet the traffic access and circulation
requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. The width of driveway must not
exceed 36 feet.
Utilities and Fire DepartmentlCounty Planning:
Wastewater: Sewer available on west side of John Barrow Road. Contact Little
Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center -Point Energy_: No comment received.
SBC: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: SHOULD BE ODD NUMBER ADDRESS. All Central
Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for water service must be
met. Additional fire hydrant(s) will be required. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department
to obtain information regarding the required placement of the hydrant(s) and contact
Central Arkansas Water regarding procedures for installation of the hydrant(s). A water
main extension may 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: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No comment.
CATH: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
Planning Division:
Item # 26.1
Landscape:
1. Compliance with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinances is required.
2. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
3. An average of eighteen -foot (18) wide land use buffer is required to separate this
proposed development from the residentially zoned property on the eastern
perimeter of the site. Seventy percent (70%) of these buffers are to remain
undisturbed. Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this requirement.
4. An average of nine -foot (9) wide land use buffer is required to separate this
proposed development from the residentially zoned property on the southern
perimeter of the site. Seventy percent (70%) of these buffers are to remain
undisturbed. Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this requirement.
5. The property to the south and the east is zoned residential, therefore, a six (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
eastern perimeters of the site.
Revised plat/plan: Submit four (4) copies of a revised preliminary plat (to include the
additional information as noted above) to staff on Wednesday, June 7, 2006.
Item # 26.1
ITEM NO.: 26.1,
NAME: Sonic Restaurant — John Barrow Road Short -form PCD
LOCATION: located at ohn Barrow Road!�oAY
_(X ,fib
Planning Staff Comments:
Z-8056
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. The notice must be mailed no later than June 7, 2006. The Office of
Planning and Development must receive the proof of notice no later than June 16,
2006.
2. Provide the days and hours of operation for the proposed facility.
3. Provide a note concerning the required dumpster screening.
4. Will the hours of service for the dumpster be limited? If so indicated on the site plan
the hours of dumpster service.
5. Any site lighting must be low level and directional, directed downward and into the
site not spilling over to the adjacent properties.
6. Could the site be relocated to the north adjacent to the existing commercial uses?
7. Design the site plan to allow for access and circulation thru the site and not have
conflicting movements exiting the drive thru and the drive lane.
8. Provide the percentage of building coverage, landscaped area and paving for the
site.
9. Provide details of how protection will be provided to the adjacent multi -family and the
church related to noise and music from the site.
10. Provide details of any proposed signage including ground mounted and building
signage. For ground -mounted signage provide the location of the proposed signage
along with a note concerning the total height and area. Provide the total building
fagade to be dedicated to signage and the locations of the proposed signs.
11. Is there any fencing being proposed as a part of the development? If so indicated
on the site plan the location of the proposed fencing and a note concerning the total
height and construction material.
12. Provide the total square footage of the outdoor dining area.
Variance/Waivers:
Public Works Conditions: ° °)4 fld
1. John Barrow is classified on the Master Street Plan as a minor arterial. A
dedication of right-of-way 45 feet from centerline will be required.
2. All driveways shall be concrete aprons per City Ordinance.
3. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the public
right-of-way prior to occupancy.
Item # 26.1
4. Plans of all work in 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).
5. 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.
6. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the proposed
location for storm water detention facilities on the plan.
7. If disturbed area is one (1) or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit
from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
8. Per City code, crossover lane must be relocated at least 75 feet from right-of-way
line.
9. Obtain permits prior to doing any street cuts or curb cuts. Obtain barricade permit
prior to doing any work in the right-of-way. Contact Traffic Engineering at (501)
379-1817 (Derrick Bergfield) for more information.
10. Driveway locations and widths do not meet the traffic access and circulation
requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. The width of driveway must not
exceed 36 feet.
Utilities and Fire Department/County Planning:
Wastewater: Sewer available on west side of John Barrow Road. Contact Little
Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center -Point Energy_: No comment received.
SBC: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: SHOULD BE ODD NUMBER ADDRESS. All Central
Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for water service must be
met. Additional fire hydrant(s) will be required. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department
to obtain information regarding the required placement of the hydrant(s) and contact
Central Arkansas Water regarding procedures for installation of the hydrant(s). A water
main extension may 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: Approved as submitted.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
Plannina Division:
Item # 26.1
Landscape:
1. Compliance with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinances is required.
2. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
3. An average of eighteen -foot (18) wide land use buffer is required to separate this
proposed development from the residentially zoned property on the eastern
perimeter of the site. Seventy percent (70%) of these buffers are to remain
undisturbed. Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this requirement.
4. An average of nine -foot (9) wide land use buffer is required to separate this
proposed development from the residentially zoned property on the southern
perimeter of the site. Seventy percent (70%) of these buffers are to remain
undisturbed. Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this requirement.
5. The property to the south and the east is zoned residential, therefore, a six (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
eastern perimeters of the site.
Revised plat/plan: Submit four (4) copies of a revised preliminary plat (to include the
additional information as noted above) to staff on Wednesday, June 7, 2006.
Item # 26.1