HomeMy WebLinkAboutZ-8458 Staff AnalysisJune 11, 2009
ITEM NO.: 10.1
NAME: Christian Brother's Automotive Short -form PD-C
LOCATION: Located in the 15500 Block of Chenal Parkway
DEVELOPER:
Main & Main Development Group
1212 Corporate Drive, Suite 500
Irving, TX 75038
ENGINEERSURVEYOR:
Crafton Tull Sparks
10825 Financial Center Parkway, Suite 500
Little Rock, AR 72211
AREA: 1.74 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1
CURRENT ZONING: 0-3, General Office District
ALLOWED USES
PROPOSED ZONING:
PROPOSED USE
Office
PD-C
Automotive Repair
VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
FILE NO.: Z-8458
FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
The applicant is proposing a rezoning of the site from 0-3, General Office District
to PD-C to allow Christian Brothers Automotive Center to construct a new
5,015 square foot building on the site. Christian Brothers Automotive is classified
as a "Light Automotive Repair' center. They do not provide engine, transmission
or rear end rebuilding. Christian Brothers Automotive is not a tire store and does
not typically store or install tires. Christian Brothers does not provide bodywork
or painting. The business provides automotive repair such as air conditioning,
brakes, coolant, computer, electrical, steering, etc. The business replaces
hoses, belts, and lights and services most makes and models of automobiles.
June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-8458
Christian Brothers Automotive does not store or repair vehicles in the parking lot.
The building is proposed with a 100 percent masonry facade. The overhead
doors are proposed facing the east and not fronting onto Chenal Parkway. The
building height proposed will not exceed 25-feet. The hours of operation are
from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 7:00 am to noon on
Saturday. The Saturday hours are on a temporary basis.
The request includes only a portion of the existing tract. The northern portion of
the tract will be included with an existing parcel either owned by the Church
(property to the west) or by an adjacent property owner to the east.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is heavily wooded, as is the property to the east. To the west is a large
church campus and north is undeveloped property. Further to the east a new
Wal-greens Drug Store has been constructed on the northwest corner of Chenal
Parkway and Wellington Hills Road. Located on the northeast corner of Chenal
Parkway and Wellington Hills Road is an automobile dealership. South of the
site is a newly constructed branch bank on property zoned C-3, General
Commercial District and a PCD for a home improvement center/lumber yard.
Other uses in the area include an additional automobile dealership, a grocery
store and an area currently used by Bale for storage of excess inventory.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All property owners located within 200 feet of the site, all residents,
who could be identified, located within 300 feet of the site, the Coalition of West
Little Rock Neighborhoods, the Parkway Place Property Owners Association and
the Villages of Wellington Property Owners Association were notified of the
public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. With site development, provide the design of street conforming to the Master
Street Plan. Construct one-half street improvement to Chenal Parkway
including 5-foot sidewalks with the planned development. Continue the
3rd lane from Wal-greens located to the east to the Church's property located
to the west. Extend the sidewalk to the western existing sidewalk located on
the Church's property.
2. The sidewalk should be placed in the public right-of-way or in a sidewalk
easement.
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June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
NO.: 10.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-845
3. Remove crosswalk striping across driveway.
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) 379-1805 (Travis Herbner).
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. Other than
residential subdivisions, site grading and drainage plans must be submitted
and approved prior to the start of construction.
6. Measures to control an increase in stormwater drainage should be
implemented to not cause damage onto adjacent property from the increased
impervious area.
7. Stormwater detention is proposed for the development.
8. Street Improvement plans shall include signage and striping. Traffic
Engineering must approve completed plans prior to construction.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required, with easements, for this project.
Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility for additional information.
Enter : A fifteen foot overhead utility easement is required along Chenal
Parkway.
Center -Point Energy: No comment received.
AT & T: 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 meter 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 short water main extension may be
needed to provide water service to this property. Due to the nature of this facility,
installation of an approved reduced pressure zone backflow preventer assembly
(RPZ) is required on the domestic water service. This assembly must be installed
prior to the first point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon
installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be completed by
a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of Arkansas and approved by
CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW's Cross Connection Section within
ten days of installation and annually thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection
Section at 377-1226 if you would like to discuss backflow prevention
requirements for this project. The Little Rock Fire Department needs to evaluate
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June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-84
this site to determine whether additional public and/or private fire hydrant(s) will
be required. If additional fire hydrant(s) are required, they will be installed at the
Developer's expense.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire
Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route,
F. ISSUESITECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Chenal Planning District. The
Land Use Plan shows Neighborhood Commercial and Office for this property.
The applicant has applied for a Planned Development Commercial to construct
an automotive repair business.
A Land Use Plan amendment to change the property from Neighborhood
Commercial and Office to Commercial is a separate item on this agenda
(LU09-19-01).
Master Street Plan: Chenal Parkway is a Principal Arterial. The primary function
of a Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect major traffic
generators or activity centers within urbanized areas. Entrances and exits should
be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on Chenal
Parkway since it is a Principal Arterial. The street may require dedication of
right-of-way and may require street improvements for entrances and exits to the
site.
Bicycle Plan: A Class I bikeway is shown along Chenal Parkway. A Class I
bikeway is built separate from or alongside a road. Additional paving and right of
way may be required.
Nei hborhood Action Pian: This area is covered by the Rock Creek
Neighborhood Action Plan. The Office and Commercial goal states: "Adopt a
policy of adhering to the Land Use Plan. Amendments should be made very
rarely, only with neighborhood input, and only when it can be clearly
demonstrated that the amendment will enhance the quality of life in the Rock
Creek Neighborhood."
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June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-8458
Landscape.,
1. The site plan must comply with the City's landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a nine -foot (9') land use buffer along the
western property line. Seventy percent (70%) of this area is to remain
undisturbed.
3. 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
western perimeter of the site. Credit towards fulfilling this requirement can be
given for existing trees and undergrowth that satisfies this year -around
requirement.
4. A small amount of building landscaping is required in conjunction with this
application.
5. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
6. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, it will be necessary to provide an
approved landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape
Architect.
7. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing
trees as feasible on this site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance
requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or
larger.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (May 21, 2009)
Mr. Jerry Kelso of Crafton Tull Sparks was present representing the request.
Staff presented an overview of the development stating there were a few
outstanding technical issues associated with the request in need of addressing
prior to the Commission acting on the request. Staff stated the property was
located within the Chenal Parkway Design Overlay District. Staff requested
Mr. Kelso provide details of the proposed signage plan including building and
ground mounted signs. Staff stated the proposal was to allow development of
only a portion of the tract. Staff noted the northern portion of the tract would be
developed as a tract without public street frontage and the plan as indicated did
not allow access to the tract. Staff requested Mr. Kelso provide details of how
the area not proposed for development would be provided access.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff requested the third lane from
Wal-greens be extended to the east to the Church's property. Staff also
requested the sidewalk located to the east of the site be extended to the west to
connect to an existing sidewalk located on the Church's property. Staff stated
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June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10.1 Cont. FILE NO.: Z-8458
the sidewalk was to be placed in the public right of way or in a sidewalk
easement. Staff stated the Stormwater Detention Ordinance would apply to
future development of the site.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated a nine -foot land use buffer
was also required along the western property line. Staff stated a six-foot opaque
screen was required along the western perimeter. Staff stated an automatic
irrigation system was required to water landscaped areas. Staff also stated at
the time of development it would be necessary to submit a landscape plan
stamped with the seal of a registered landscape architect.
Staff noted comments from the other reporting departments and agencies
suggesting the applicant contact them individually for additional clarification.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the
item to the full Commission for final action.
K ANALYSIS:
The applicant submitted a revised site plan to staff addressing a number of the
issues raised at the May 21, 2009, Subdivision Committee meeting. The
applicant has indicated the northern tract will not be left as a freestanding tract
but will be sold and incorporates into either the property to the east or west of the
area. The revised site plan indicates screening will be placed along the northern
and western perimeters of the site where adjacent to less intensive zoning and
uses.
The development is proposed with a new building containing 5,015 square feet
and 25 parking spaces. The use proposed is an automotive service, which
typically requires the placement of five (5) spaces plus one (1) space per each
two hundred fifty (250) gross square feet of building area. The ordinance would
typically require the placement of twenty-five (25) parking spaces.
The building is proposed as a single story building constructed with a brick
fagade. The maximum building height proposed is twenty-five (25) feet. The site
plan indicates the placement of a nine (9) foot land use buffer along the western
perimeter and a screening fence in this area. The northern perimeter also
indicates the placement of a nine (9) foot land use buffer and a screening fence.
The eastern perimeter is indicated with a nine (9) foot landscape strip adjacent to
the parking area as required by the Landscape Ordinance.
The property is located in the Chenal/Financial Center Parkway Design Overlay
District. The Overlay has criteria in place regulating Signage and Lighting. The
Overlay states signage will comply with the Little Rock Sign Ordinance except for
ground -mounted signs. The maximum size of principal site signs along
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June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10.1 (Cont.
FILE NO.: Z-8458
Chenal/Financial Center Parkway is one hundred square feet of sign area and a
maximum height of eight feet. Each landowner is permitted to have one sign per
parcel except for parcels fronting on two different streets upon which one per
street frontage may be erected. The signs are to be monument type signs.
The development is proposed with a single ground mounted sign monument sign
complying with the Chenal/Financial Center Parkway Design Overlay District.
The sign is proposed with a maximum height of eight (8) feet and a maximum
sign area of one hundred (100) square feet. Building signage is proposed as
channel letters located on the face of the building fronting Chenal Parkway. The
sign is proposed with a maximum length of twenty (20) feet six (6) inches and a
maximum height of three (3) feet three and one-half (3-'/2) inches.
The DOD also regulates lighting and utilities. Parking lot lighting must be
designed and located in such a manner so as to not disturb the scenic
appearance of the corridor. Lighting will be directed to the parking areas and not
reflect to adjacent parcels. All lighting and other utilities on lots adjacent to
Chenal/Financial Center Parkway must be underground. Notwithstanding the
foregoing limitation, no overhead utilities may be constructed within 100 feet of
the Chenal/Financial Center Parkway right of way. The development as
proposed will comply with the lighting and overhead utility requirements of the
Chenal/Financial Center Parkway Design Overlay District.
Staff is not supportive of the request. The proposed use, an auto repair garage,
is typically allowed in the C-4, Open Display Zoning District. This area of Chenal
Parkway is indicated as Neighborhood Commercial, which does not allow for this
type of use. Although there are other C-4, Open Display Uses located in the
area, an automobile dealership located to the east, this development was
approved as a Conditional Use Permit under the C-2, Shopping Center Zoning
District. In previous commitments from the original property owners, an
agreement was reached to move the intensive commercial activities from the
west side of Wellington Hills Road to the properties on the east side of Wellington
Hills Road. Staff feels this commitment should be honored even though there
are new property owners. Staff also feels the construction of the new
Wal-greens has established a break in the development pattern along the
Parkway allowing for commercial zoning on the west side of Wellington
Hills Road but with a lesser intensity than proposed by the applicant.
Staff does not feel this is an appropriate location for the placement of an auto
repair garage.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIO
Staff recommends denial of the request.
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June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10.1 Cont.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:
FILE NO.: Z-845
(JUNE 11, 2009)
The applicant was present. There were registered objectors present. Staff presented
the item with a recommendation of denial. Staff stated they felt the location was not
appropriate for the placement of an auto repair garage.
Mr. Jerry Kelso of Crafton Tull Sparks and Associates addressed the Commission on
the merits of the request as did Mr. Andy Hovis. Mr. Hovis stated the store was the
second location for the Greater Little Rock area. He stated construction of a new store
on Maumelle Boulevard in North Little Rock had recently been completed. He stated
Christian Brother's was a family owned business. He stated the facilities were operated
through a franchise agreement. He stated the company currently had 58 locations. He
stated the business was a family owned and operated faith based business. He stated
the stores were designed to fit into the neighborhood. He stated the building was a
brick building and the hours were conducive to the neighborhood fit. He stated after
approximately three months the business did not open on Saturdays and was only open
Monday through Friday and the store closed by 6:00 pm. He stated there were no cars
stored outside. He stated the building was set up to hold eighteen cars. He stated the
desire was to get the customers car in and out in one day.
Mr. Hovis stated 83 percent of the customers came from a three and one half mile
radius of the business. He stated the business would see 45 to 50 cars per week. He
stated the business was less imposing than a fast food restaurant.
Mr. Kelso addressed the Commission on the merits of the request. He stated he
disagreed with staff and that the business was a neighborhood business. He stated he
felt the use less intense than the nearby Wai-greens. He stated the site was shown as
commercial both east and west of the site with the exception of the church. He stated
east of the site was an automobile dealership which provided saies and service of
vehicles. He stated west of the site was also an automobile dealership which provided
sales and service of vehicles.
Mr. Clark McCarley addressed the Commission. He stated he was on the Board of
Directors of the adjacent Highland Valley United Methodist Church. He stated the
church was in support of the request. He stated a number of the Board Members had
met with the applicant and had determined there were a number of uses which could
locate on the property which would create a negative impact on the church. He stated
the business being a faith based business was in keeping with the church's goals. He
requested a fence not be installed along the western perimeter to provided the required
screening but the screening be placed as evergreen plantings. He also requested any
trees placed within the buffer be hardwoods and not pine trees.
0
June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10.1
FILE NO.: Z-8458
Mr. Lance Hines stated he was on the Board of Directors of the Villages of Wellington
Property Owners Association. He stated based on the proposal the Villages of
Wellington was satisfied with the request and felt the development would be an asset to
the area. He did question lighting on the site. He stated the neighborhood did have a
problem with the Ford Dealership and light pollution. He requested the business not
create any additional light pollution.
Mr. Hovis stated the building would be lite with building lighting only. He stated there
were no poles or parking lot lighting. He stated the sign located only the parkway would
be lite. He stated if the neighborhood had concerns with the sign light the light could be
turned off at midnight. He stated all building lighting would be shielded and turned
downward into the site.
Ms. Ruth Bell addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. She stated the
League of Women Voters were not supportive of expanding the commercial activities as
proposed by the applicant. She stated if the business was a neighborhood oriented
business then why was a change in zoning request being made. She stated she felt
this was the nibble, nibble, nibble approach. She stated the area to the west of the
Villages of Wellington Drive should remain as neighborhood commercial uses and the
more intense uses located as were currently zoned and indicated on the plan. She
stated based on the number of parking spaces proposed it appeared the business was
an intense business. She stated the rotation of eight to twelve vehicles at a time was an
intense use. She stated she felt this was to intense use of a use for the site.
There was a general discussion of the Commission and the applicant concerning the
proposed development. The Commission questioned the applicant if the application
request was solely for their use and franchise or if the use would be a transferable use.
Mr. Hovis stated he did not want to lock the business into Christian Brother's ownership.
He stated occasionally stores were sold. He stated it was also possible the store could
change franchises and he did not want to hinder a future sale or owner. He stated
placing a condition on the approval that future users of the site were required to operate
under the same conditions as Christian Brother's was agreeable.
The Commission also questioned how long the business would operate on Saturday.
Mr. Hovis stated for the first 120 days after receiving their CO the business would
operate with Saturday hours. He stated after the 120 days the business would only
operate Monday through Friday and the closing hour would be 6:00 pm.
The Commission questioned the proposed lighting, signage and sign lighting. Mr. Hovis
stated the sign lighting would be turned off at midnight daily. He stated there would be
no poles within the parking lot. He stated the building lighting would be low level and
directed into the parking lot. Mr. Hovis stated the sign would comply with the Chenal
Parkway DOD standards. He stated electronic signage would not be incorporated into
the ground mounted sign.
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June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10.1 (Cont.
FILE NO.: Z-8458
The Commission questioned outdoor activities that would take place on the site.
Mr. Hovis stated there would be no parking of vehicles outdoors overnight and no
service of vehicles in the parking lot during the daylight hours.
The Commission questioned the landscape treatment along the western perimeter.
Mr. Hovis stated he was willing to install plantings in this area and work with staff and
the adjacent church concerning the tree placement and the tree species to be located
within the buffer area.
The Commission questioned the statement "do not typically install tire". Mr. Hovis
stated if a customer was in for service and the technician noticed the tires were in need
of replacing they would suggest the customer go to a tire store for replacement tires.
He stated if the customer was instant on Christian Brother's performing the work the
business would go to the tire store, purchase the tires and bring them back and place
on the customers automobile. The Commission questioned if a special customer
requested body work would the business then perform this activity. Mr. Hovis stated the
business was not equipped to perform body repairs.
The Commission questioned staff if their recommendation had changed based on the
amendments made by the applicant. Staff stated they were still opposed to the request.
Staff stated the use was a C-4, Open Display District uses. Staff stated they felt based
on the intensity of the use this was not an appropriate location for the use. Staff stated
they were concerned with the overall area and the potential this change would have on
adjacent properties.
Commissioner Yates questioned the drive indicated on the plan and the note stating
future access easement. Staff stated the drive was to share with two lots located to the
east to allow access to Wellington Hills Drive. Commissioner Yates questioned if staff
was not concerned with the backing of vehicles into the access easement. Staff stated
based on the number of cars anticipated to use the easement the backing into the
easement was not a concern.
Commissioner Yates questioned if the detention basin would be maintained. Staff
stated the basin would be maintained as a landscape feature. Staff stated some basins
were constructed as wetlands which were not to be moved and cut. Staff stated others
were landscape features which were maintained.
There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for approval
of the item including all amendments as presented by the applicant including, the
placement of evergreen plantings as the screening mechanism along the western
perimeter, the turning off of the sign lighting at midnight daily, no Saturday hours after
10
June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10.1 (Cont.
FILE NO.: Z-8458
120 days from receiving the businesses CO, no electronic signage, no parking lot pole
lighting, all lighting shielded downward and into the site, no outdoor vehicle storage or
working of vehicles outdoors, all future users of the site are to abide by the same
conditions as the Christian Brother's Automotive.
The motion carried by a vote of 6 ayes, 3 noes and 2 absent.
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June 11, 2009
ITEM NO.: 10 FILE NO.: LU09-19-01
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment — Chenal Planning District
Location: northwest corner of Chenal Parkway and Wellington Hills Road
Request: Neighborhood Commercial and Office to Commercial
Source: Springfield Holdings, Owner, Crafton Tull
PROPOSAL / REQUEST:
A Land Use Plan amendment in the Chenal Planning District from Neighborhood
Commercial and Office to Commercial. Commercial represents a broad range of
retail and wholesale sales of products, services and general business activities.
The applicant is currently proposing a rezoning at this site for an automotive
center. Prompted by this Land Use Amendment request, the Planning Staff
expanded the area of review to include the parcel east and adjacent to the
applicant's property. With these changes, the entirety of the Neighborhood
Commercial would be amended to Commercial. It is thought that the additional
area would make the boundaries more logical.
EXISTING LAND USE AND ZONING:
The property is currently zoned 0-3 General Office and Planned Commercial
Development. The western portion is vacant and wooded. The eastern portion
is approximately eight acres in size and is half vacant and half developed with a
Walgreens store. A mini -storage warehouse sits in a Planned Office
Development northwest of the amendment area. A vacant tract of land is located
in a C-1 Neighborhood Commercial zone north of the amendment area. A radio
station is located north of the amendment area and is zoned 0-1 Quiet Office.
The property to the east is zoned C-2 for a car dealership. To the west of the
amendment area is zoned R-2 and is the Highland Valley United Methodist
Church. South of the amendment area is a Planned Commercial Development
for National Home Center. There is also a bank zoned C-3 General Commercial
located southwest of this area at the intersection of Kanis Road and Chenal
Parkway.
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN AND RECENT AMENDMENTS
The amendment area is currently shown as Neighborhood Commercial and
Office on the Future Land Use Plan. Public Institutional is shown to the west and
Commercial is shown to the south and the east. North is planned for Office.
Ordinance 19798 on August 6, 2007 amended this amendment site at the
northwest corner of Chenal Parkway and Wellington Hllls from Mixed Office
June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU09-19-0
Commercial to Office and Neighborhood Commercial for a Walgreens
development.
Ordinance 19577 on August 15, 2006 amended the area at the southeast corner
of Chenal Parkway and Arkansas Systems Drive from Office to Mixed Office
Commercial. This was to allow for the development of a bank and a three-story
building with 31 percent commercial.
Ordinance 19581 on August 15, 2006 amended the area at the northwest corner
of Rahling Road and Chenal Valley Drive from Office to Mixed Use for a
shopping center at this location.
Ordinance 19559 on June 27, 2006 amended the area on either side of
Wellington Hills Boulevard, east of Kirk Road from Office, Neighborhood
Commercial and Low Density Residential to Mixed Office Commercial to allow for
future development of the area using the PZD process.
Ordinance 19292 on April 5, 2005 changed multiple areas. An area on
Chenonceau was changed from Mixed Office Commercial to Commercial. On
Ranch Boulevard, one area was changed from Single Family to Public
Institutional and another area was changed from Mixed Office Commercial to
Commercial. The property at 5800 Ranch Drive was changed from Mixed Office
Commercial to Office. At the northeast corner of Katillus and Cantrell an area
was changed from Transition to Suburban Office. Further south on Katillus was
changed from Transition to Single Family. All four corners at the intersection of
Chenal and Cantrell were changed from Park/Open Space to Commercial.
South of Cantrell on Chenal was changed from Park/Open Space to Single
Family. At Cantrell Road and Highway 300 was changed from Public
Institutional, Neighborhood Commercial, and Single Family to Suburban Office.
On the south side of Cantrell Road at Highway 300 was changed from Public
Institutional to Single Family and Low Density Residential. At the northeast
corner of the intersection of Highway 300 and Cantrell a change was made from
Single Family to Office. These amendments were part of a review of the
Highway 10/Cantrell Corridor as requested by the Little Rock Board of Directors.
Ordinance 19039 on January 20, 2004 amended the Office at the southwest
corner of Rahling Road and Champlin and on the south side of Rahling Road
approximately three hundred feet east of Champlin to Mixed Use for future
development.
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June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.. 10 (Cont.
MASTER STREET PLAN.
FILE NO.: LU09-19-01
Chenal Parkway is shown as a Principal Arterial with Reduced Design
Standards. The primary function of a Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic
and to connect major traffic generators or activity centers within urbanized areas.
Entrances and exits should be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and
pedestrians on Chenal since it is a Principal Arterial. Wellington Hills is shown as
a Minor Arterial. A Minor Arterial provides connections to and through an urban
area. Their primary function is to provide short distance travel within the
urbanized area. These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may
require street improvements.
BICYCLE PLAN:
A Class I bike route is shown on Chenal Parkway. A Class I bikeway is built
separate from or alongside a road. Additional paving and right of way may be
required.
PARKS:
According to the Master Parks Plan, this site is located within eight blocks of a
park or open space. South of this property is the Rock Creek greenbelt.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS:
There are no city recognized historic districts that would be affected by this
amendment.
CITY RECOGNIZED NEIGHBORHOOD ACTION PLAN:
The applicant's property lies in the area covered by the Rock Creek
Neighborhood Action Plan. The Office and Commercial goal states "aggressively
use Planned Zoning Districts (PZDs) to influence more neighborhood -friendly
and better quality developments."
ANALYSIS:
This site has been the subject of three land use plan amendments in the past. In
1989, Commercial was shown on both sides of what was then called. Wellington
Village Drive with frontage along Chenal Parkway. The applicant wanted a larger
amount of Commercial shown on the east side of the intersection to allow for a
large commercial development. After a lengthy discussion at that planning
commission meeting, the Land Use Plan was amended to Office on the west side
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June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.: 10(Cont.) FILE NO.: LU09-19-01
of the intersection and a larger section of Commercial on the east side to reflect
the zoning changes.
Then in December of 1999, a land use plan amendment was filed for the current
amendment site to change it from Office to Commercial for a Saturn dealership.
After much discussion and many deferrals, a compromise was reached. The
future land use plan was amended to Mixed Office Commercial on the west side
of the intersection at Wellington Hills Drive and Chenal Parkway to allow for the
car dealership. The dealership was never developed.
Most recently, this site was amended in 2007 from Mixed Office Commercial to
split the northern portion as Office and the southern portion as Neighborhood
Commercial to accommodate a Walgreen's store. Staff expanded that
application to include the entirety of the Mixed Office Commercial planned for this
intersection, so that part of it is Neighborhood Commercial and the northern part
would be amended to Office. Staff thought this amendment was reasonable
because it would allow for the same mixture of office and commercial uses, but
the future land use plan would represent it differently. Wellington Hills Drive is a
major entryway for a large single-family home neighborhood located north and
east of this amendment area. Neighborhood Commercial at this site is
appropriate since Neighborhood Commercial is designed for "limited, small scale
commercial development in close proximity to a neighborhood, providing goods
and services to that neighborhood market area. Based on this history of the
site, staff feels that a change to Commercial would not be appropriate. This
area's land use has already been compromised by the change from Mixed Office
Commercial to Neighborhood Commercial and it needs to be protected from
further Commercial expansion.
There have been many new developments along Chenal Parkway in recent
years. The City of Little Rock has tried to guide Chenal Parkway's development
so as not to line the Parkway with intense commercial uses. Commercial uses
that are acceptable are those that are designed to serve the surrounding
neighborhood. There is still some undeveloped office and commercial use areas
along Chenal Parkway. This area of Little Rock still has nearly 100 acres of
undeveloped Office within a mile of this application and approximately 40 acres
of undeveloped Commercial and Neighborhood Commercial along Rahling Road.
The existing commercial and office is part of a large 'node' around the Chenal
Parkway-Rahling Road intersection and includes intersections of these roads
with Kanis Road, Kirk Road and Wellington Boulevard (all Arterials).
12
June 11, 2009
SUBDIVISION
ITEM NO.. 10 (Cont.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
FILE NO.: LU09-19-01
Notices were sent to the following neighborhood associations: St. Charles
Community Association, Parkway Place Property Owners Association and The
Villages of Wellington. Staff has received no comments from area residents.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff believes the change is not appropriate.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 11, 2009)
Walter Malone, Planning Staff, reviewed the history of this site back to the
mid-1980s. The area had shown Commercial and the City after much discussion
agreed to move the entire Commercial to the east side after intersection. Then
about eight to ten years later the City agreed to change from Office to Mixed
Office Commercial on the site. Then after the Walgreen's development a change
to Neighborhood Commercial for the frontage along Chenal Parkway and Office
behind was approved. Staff does not believe since the area of the original
agreement is not fully developed that the Plan should be changed back to
Commercial now.
Commissioner Yates asked about the differences between Neighborhood
Commercial and Commercial. Generally Neighborhood Commercial is smaller
in scale and oriented more to the immediate area — a smaller service area.
Donna James of Planning Staff reviewed the related Planned Commercial
Development request (Z-8458 — Item 10.1) — see that minute record for a
complete review of the items.
The applicant did indicate that they believe this is a neighborhood commercial
use and thus appropriate without the change. The limited hours of operation,
high quality of the development, local 'ownership', and limited customers and
services provided make it neighborhood friendly. Ms. Ruth Bell, League of
Women Voters, spoke against the change and called it an example of 'nibbling
away' on the Plan.
Commissioner Laha, indicated that a lot of time had been spent on the Plan
in the area when he was on the Plans Committee and he could not support
the charge based on all the efforts made in that process. A motion was made
to approve the Land Use Plan Amendment, by a vote of 2 for 7 against the
amendment was denied.
5
ITEM NO.: 10.
NAME: Christian Brother's Automotive Short -form PD-C
LOCATION: located in the 15500 Block of Chenal Parkway
Planning Staff Comments:
Z-8458
1. Provide notification of all 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 May 27, 2009. The Office of
Planning and Development must receive the proof of notice no later than June 5,
2009.
2. The property is located within the Chenal Parkway Design Overlay District. The
Overlay regulates signage, lighting and utilities.
3. Provide details of the proposed signage for the site including ground mounted and
building signage. The ordinance does not allow signage without public street
frontage.
4. The ordinance requires the placement of five spaces plus one space for every 250
square feet of gross building area for automotive services. The ordinance would
typically require the placement of 25 parking spaces. The site plan indicates the
placement of 27 spaces.
5. The property to the east is zoned residentially. Provide details of the proposed
screening mechanism for this perimeter. The property to the north will remain zoned
0-3. Provide details of the proposed screening for this area.
6. The parcel is a single property and the development is proposed on only a portion of
the site. The area to the north is being created as a lot without public street frontage
or access. How will access be maintained to the property to the north?
Variance/Waivers: A variance from the Subdivision Ordinance to allow the creation of a
lot without public street frontage (Section 31-231).
Public Works Conditions:
1. With site development, the provide design of street conforming to the Master Street
Plan. Construct one-half street improvement to Chenal Parkway including 5-foot
sidewalks with the planned development. Continue the 3rd lane from Wal-greens
located to the east to the Church's property located to the west. Extend the sidewalk
to the western existing sidewalk located on the Church's property.
2. The sidewalk should be placed in the public right-of-way or in a sidewalk easement.
3. Remove crosswalk striping across driveway.
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) 379-1805 (Travis Herbner).
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. Other than residential
Item # 10.
subdivisions, site grading and drainage plans must be submitted and approved prior
to the start of construction.
6. Measures to control an increase in stormwater drainage should be implemented to
not cause damage onto adjacent property from the increased impervious area.
7. Stormwater detention is proposed for the development.
8. Street Improvement plans shall include signage and striping. Traffic Engineering
must approve completed plans prior to construction.
Utilities and Fire Department/County Planning:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required, with easements, for this project.
Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility for additional information.
Entergy: No comment received.
Center -Point Energy: No comment received.
AT & T: 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 meter 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 short water main extension may be needed to provide water service to this
property. Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced pressure
zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the domestic water service.
This assembly must be installed prior to the first point of use. Central Arkansas Water
(CAW) requires that upon installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly
must be completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of Arkansas
and approved by CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW's Cross Connection
Section within ten days of installation and annually thereafter. Contact the Cross
Connection Section at 377-1226 if you would like to discuss backflow prevention
requirements for this project. The Little Rock Fire Department needs to evaluate this site
to determine whether additional public and/or private fire hydrant(s) will be required. If
additional fire hydrant(s) are required, they will be installed at the Developer's expense.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department
for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
Planning Division: This request is located in the Chenal Planning District. The Land
Use Plan shows Neighborhood Commercial and Office for this property. The applicant
has applied for a Planned Development Commercial to construct an automotive repair
business.
Item # 10.
A Land Use Plan amendment to change the property from Neighborhood Commercial
and Office to Commercial is a separate item on this agenda (LU09-19-01).
Master Street Plan: Chenal Parkway is a Principal Arterial. The primary function of a
Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect major traffic generators or
activity centers within urbanized areas. Entrances and exits should be limited to
minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on Chenal Parkway since it is a
Principal Arterial. The street may require dedication of right-of-way and may require
street improvements for entrances and exits to the site.
Bicycle Plan: A Class I bikeway is shown along Chenal Parkway. A Class I bikeway is
built separate from or alongside a road. Additional paving and right of way may be
required.
Neighborhood Action Plan: This area is covered by the Rock Creek Neighborhood
Action Plan. The Office and Commercial goal states: "Adopt a policy of adhering to the
Land Use Plan. Amendments should be made very rarely, only with neighborhood
input, and only when it can be clearly demonstrated that the amendment will enhance
the quality of life in the Rock Creek Neighborhood."
Landscape:
1. The site plan must comply with the City's landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a nine foot (9') land use buffer along the
western property line. Seventy percent (70%) of this area is to remain undisturbed.
3. 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 western
perimeter of the site. Credit towards fulfilling this requirement can be given for
existing trees and undergrowth that satisfies this year -around requirement.
4. A small amount of building landscaping is required in conjunction with this
application.
5. Otherwise, the areas set aside appear to meet with the minimal City requirements.
6. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
7. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, it will be necessary to provide an approved
landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape Architect.
8. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing trees as
feasible on this site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance requirements can
be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or larger.
Revised plat/plan: Submit four (4) copies of a revised preliminary plat/plan (to include
the additional information as noted above) to staff on Wednesday, May 27, 2009.
Item # 10.
FILE NO.- Z-8458
NAME: Christian Brother's Automotive Short -form PD-C
LOCATION: Located in the 15500 Block of Chenal Parkway
DEVELOPER:
Main & Main Development Group
1212 Corporate Drive, Suite 500
Irving, TX 75038
ENGINEER/SURVEYOR:
Crafton Tull Sparks
10825 Financial Center Parkway, Suite 500
Little Rock, AR 72211
AREA: 1.74 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1
CURRENT ZONING: 0-3, General Office District
ALLOWED USES: Office
PROPOSED ZONING: PD-C
PROPOSED USE:
Automotive Repair
VARIANCESM/AIVERS REQUESTED: None requested.
A. PROPOSAL/.REQUEST-
FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
The applicant is proposing a rezoning of the site from 0-3, General Office District
to PD-C to allow Christian Brothers Automotive Center to construct a new
5,015 square foot building on the site. Christian Brothers Automotive is classified
as a "Light Automotive Repair" center. They do not provide engine, transmission
or rear end rebuilding. Christian Brothers Automotive is not a tire store and does
not typically store or install tires. Christian Brothers does not provide bodywork
or painting. The business provides automotive repair such as air conditioning,
brakes, coolant, computer, electrical, steering, etc. The business replaces
hoses, belts, and lights and services most makes and models of automobiles.
FILE NO.: Z-8458 Cont.
Christian Brothers Automotive does not store or repair vehicles in the parking lot.
The building is proposed with a 100 percent masonry facade. The overhead
doors are proposed facing the east and not fronting onto Chenal Parkway. The
building height proposed will not exceed 25-feet. The hours of operation are
from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 7:00 am to noon on
Saturday. The Saturday hours are on a temporary basis.
The request includes only a portion of the existing tract. The northern portion of
the tract will be included with an existing parcel either owned by the Church
(property to the west) or by an adjacent property owner to the east.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The site is heavily wooded, as is the property to the east. To the west is a large
church campus and north is undeveloped property. Further to the east a new
Wal-greens Drug Store has been constructed on the northwest corner of Chenal
Parkway and Wellington Hills Road. Located on the northeast corner of Chenal
Parkway and Wellington Hills Road is an automobile dealership. South of the
site is a newly constructed branch bank on property zoned C-3, General
Commercial District and a PCD for a home improvement center/lumber yard.
Other uses in the area include an additional automobile dealership, a grocery
store and an area currently used by Bale for storage of excess inventory.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All property owners located within 200 feet of the site, all residents,
who could be identified, located within 300 feet of the site, the Coalition of West
Little Rock Neighborhoods, the Parkway Place Property Owners Association and
the Villages of Wellington Property Owners Association were notified of the
public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. With site development, provide the design of street conforming to the Master
Street Plan. Construct one-half street improvement to Chenal Parkway
including 5-foot sidewalks with the planned development. Continue the
3`d lane from Wal-greens located to the east to the Church's property located
to the west. Extend the sidewalk to the western existing sidewalk located on
the Church's property.
2. The sidewalk should be placed in the public right-of-way or in a sidewalk
easement.
3. Remove crosswalk striping across driveway.
2
FILE NO.: Z-8458 (Cont.
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) 379-1805 (Travis Herbner).
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. Other than
residential subdivisions, site grading and drainage plans must be submitted
and approved prior to the start of construction.
6. Measures to control an increase in stormwater drainage should be
implemented to not cause damage onto adjacent property from the increased
impervious area.
7. Stormwater detention is proposed for the development.
8. Street Improvement plans shall include signage and striping. Traffic
Engineering must approve completed plans prior to construction.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer main extension required, with easements, for this project.
Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility for additional information.
Enter : A fifteen foot overhead utility easement is required along Chenal
Parkway.
Center -Point Energy: No comment received.
AT & T: 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 meter 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 short water main extension may be
needed to provide water service to this property. Due to the nature of this facility,
installation of an approved reduced pressure zone backflow preventer assembly
(RPZ) is required on the domestic water service. This assembly must be installed
prior to the first point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon
installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be completed by
a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of Arkansas and approved by
CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW's Cross Connection Section within
ten days of installation and annually thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection
Section at 377-1226 if you would like to discuss backflow prevention
requirements for this project. The Little Rock Fire Department needs to evaluate
this site to determine whether additional public and/or private fire hydrant(s) will
be required. If additional fire hydrant(s) are required, they will be installed at the
Developer's expense.
Kj
FILE NO.: Z-8458 (Cont.
Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code
Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
Contact the Little Rock Fire
CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route.
F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN:
Planning Division: This request is located in the Chenal Planning District. The
Land Use Plan shows Neighborhood Commercial and Office for this property.
The applicant has applied for a Planned Development Commercial to construct
an automotive repair business.
A Land Use Plan amendment to change the property from Neighborhood
Commercial and Office to Commercial is a separate item on this agenda
(LU09-19-01).
Master Street Plan: Chenal Parkway is a Principal Arterial. The primary function
of a Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect major traffic
generators or activity centers within urbanized areas. Entrances and exits should
be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on Chenal
Parkway since it is a Principal Arterial. The street may require dedication of
right-of-way and may require street improvements for entrances and exits to the
site.
Bicycle Plan: A Class I bikeway is shown along Chenal Parkway. A Class I
bikeway is built separate from or alongside a road. Additional paving and right of
way may be required.
Neighborhood Action Plan: This area is covered by the Rock Creek
Neighborhood Action Plan. The Office and Commercial goal states: "Adopt a
policy of adhering to the Land Use Plan. Amendments should be made very
rarely, only with neighborhood input, and only when it can be clearly
demonstrated that the amendment will enhance the quality of life in the Rock
Creek Neighborhood."
Landscape:
1. The site plan must comply with the City's landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. The zoning buffer ordinance requires a nine -foot (9') land use buffer along the
western property line. Seventy percent (70%) of this area is to remain
undisturbed.
3. 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
M
FILE NO.: Z-8458 (Cont.)
western perimeter of the site. Credit towards fulfilling this requirement can be
given for existing trees and undergrowth that satisfies this year -around
requirement.
4. A small amount of building landscaping is required in conjunction with this
application.
5. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required.
6. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, it will be necessary to provide an
approved landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape
Architect.
7. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing
trees as feasible on this site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance
requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or
larger.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT:
(May 21, 2009)
Mr. Jerry Kelso of Crafton Tull Sparks was present representing the request.
Staff presented an overview of the development stating there were a few
outstanding technical issues associated with the request in need of addressing
prior to the Commission acting on the request. Staff stated the property was
located within the Chenal Parkway Design Overlay District. Staff requested
Mr. Kelso provide details of the proposed signage plan including building and
ground mounted signs. Staff stated the proposal was to allow development of
only a portion of the tract. Staff noted the northern portion of the tract would be
developed as a tract without public street frontage and the plan as indicated did
not allow access to the tract. Staff requested Mr. Kelso provide details of how
the area not proposed for development would be provided access.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff requested the third lane from
Wal-greens be extended to the east to the Church's property. Staff also
requested the sidewalk located to the east of the site be extended to the west to
connect to an existing sidewalk located on the Church's property. Staff stated
the sidewalk was to be placed in the public right of way or in a sidewalk
easement. Staff stated the Stormwater Detention Ordinance would apply to
future development of the site.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated a nine -foot land use buffer
was also required along the western property line. Staff stated a six-foot opaque
screen was required along the western perimeter. Staff stated an automatic
irrigation system was required to water landscaped areas. Staff also stated at
the time of development it would be necessary to submit a landscape plan
stamped with the seal of a registered landscape architect.
Staff noted comments from the other reporting departments and agencies
suggesting the applicant contact them individually for additional clarification.
5
FILE NO.: Z-8458 (Cont.
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 submitted a revised site plan to staff addressing a number of the
issues raised at the May 21, 2009, Subdivision Committee meeting. The
applicant has indicated the northern tract will not be left as a freestanding tract
but will be sold and incorporates into either the property to the east or west of the
area. The revised site plan indicates screening will be placed along the northern
and western perimeters of the site where adjacent to less intensive zoning and
uses.
The development is proposed with a new building containing 5,015 square feet
and 25 parking spaces. The use proposed is an automotive service, which
typically requires the placement of five (5) spaces plus one (1) space per each
two hundred fifty (250) gross square feet of building area. The ordinance would
typically require the placement of twenty-five (25) parking spaces.
The building is proposed as a single story building constructed with a brick
facade. The maximum building height proposed is twenty-five (25) feet. The site
plan indicates the placement of a nine (9) foot land use buffer along the western
perimeter and a screening fence in this area. The northern perimeter also
indicates the placement of a nine (9) foot land use buffer and a screening fence.
The eastern perimeter is indicated with a nine (9) foot landscape strip adjacent to
the parking area as required by the Landscape Ordinance.
The property is located in the Chenal/Financial Center Parkway Design Overlay
District. The Overlay has criteria in place regulating Signage and Lighting. The
Overlay states signage will comply with the Little Rock Sign Ordinance except for
ground -mounted signs. The maximum size of principal site signs along
Chenal/Financial Center Parkway is one hundred square feet of sign area and a
maximum height of eight feet. Each landowner is permitted to have one sign per
parcel except for parcels fronting on two different streets upon which one per
street frontage may be erected. The signs are to be monument type signs.
The development is proposed with a single ground mounted sign monument sign
complying with the Chenal/Financial Center Parkway Design Overlay District.
The sign is proposed with a maximum height of eight (8) feet and a maximum
sign area of one hundred (100) square feet. Building signage is proposed as
channel letters located on the face of the building fronting Chenal Parkway. The
sign is proposed with a maximum length of twenty (20) feet six (6) inches and a
maximum height of three (3) feet three and one-half (3 '/2) inches.
The DOD also regulates lighting and utilities. Parking lot lighting must be
designed and located in such a manner so as to not disturb the scenic
appearance of the corridor. Lighting will be directed to the parking areas and not
reflect to adjacent parcels. All lighting and other utilities on lots adjacent to
XG
FILE NO.: Z-8458 (Cont.
Chenal/Financial Center Parkway must be underground. Notwithstanding the
foregoing limitation, no overhead utilities may be constructed within 100 feet of
the Chenal/Financial Center Parkway right of way. The development as
proposed will comply with the lighting and overhead utility requirements of the
Chenal/Financial Center Parkway Design Overlay District.
Staff is not supportive of the request. The proposed use, an auto repair garage,
is typically allowed in the C-4, Open Display Zoning District. This area of Chenal
Parkway is indicated as Neighborhood Commercial, which does not allow for this
type of use. Although there are other C-4, Open Display Uses located in the
area, an automobile dealership located to the east, this development was
approved as a Conditional Use Permit under the C-2, Shopping Center Zoning
District. In previous commitments from the original property owners, an
agreement was reached to move the intensive commercial activities from the
west side of Wellington Hills Road to the properties on the east side of Wellington
Hills Road. Staff feels this commitment should be honored even though there
are new property owners. Staff also feels the construction of the new
Wal-greens has established a break in the development pattern along the
Parkway allowing for commercial zoning on the west side of Wellington
Hills Road but with a lesser intensity than proposed by the applicant.
Staff does not feel this is an appropriate location for the placement of an auto
repair garage.
I. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends denial of the request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:
(JUNE 11, 2009)
The applicant was present. There were registered objectors present. Staff presented
the item with a recommendation of denial. Staff stated they felt the location was not
appropriate for the placement of an auto repair garage.
Mr. Jerry Kelso of Crafton Tull Sparks and Associates addressed the Commission on
the merits of the request as did Mr. Andy Hovis. Mr. Hovis stated the store was the
second location for the Greater Little Rock area. He stated construction of a new store
on Maumelle Boulevard in North Little Rock had recently been completed. He stated
Christian Brother's was a family owned business. He stated the facilities were operated
through a franchise agreement. He stated the company currently had 58 locations. He
stated the business was a family owned and operated faith based business. He stated
the stores were designed to fit into the neighborhood. He stated the building was a
brick building and the hours were conducive to the neighborhood fit. He stated after
approximately three months the business did not open on Saturdays and was only open
Monday through Friday and the store closed by 6:00 pm. He stated there were no cars
7
FILE NO.: Z-8458 Cont.
stored outside. He stated the building was set up to hold eighteen cars. He stated the
desire was to get the customers car in and out in one day.
Mr. Hovis stated 83 percent of the customers came from a three and one half mile
radius of the business. He stated the business would see 45 to 50 cars per week. He
stated the business was less imposing than a fast food restaurant.
Mr. Kelso addressed the Commission on the merits of the request. He stated he
disagreed with staff and that the business was a neighborhood business. He stated he
felt the use less intense than the nearby Wal-greens. He stated the site was shown as
commercial both east and west of the site with the exception of the church. He stated
east of the site was an automobile dealership which provided sales and service of
vehicles. He stated west of the site was also an automobile dealership which provided
sales and service of vehicles.
Mr. Clark McCarley addressed the Commission. He stated he was on the Board of
Directors of the adjacent Highland Valley United Methodist Church. He stated the
church was in support of the request. He stated a number of the Board Members had
met with the applicant and had determined there were a number of uses which could
locate on the property which would create a negative impact on the church. He stated
the business being a faith based business was in keeping with the church's goals. He
requested a fence not be installed along the western perimeter to provided the required
screening but the screening be placed as evergreen plantings. He also requested any
trees placed within the buffer be hardwoods and not pine trees.
Mr. Lance Hines stated he was on the Board of Directors of the Villages of Wellington
Property Owners Association. He stated based on the proposal the Villages of
Wellington was satisfied with the request and felt the development would be an asset to
the area. He did question lighting on the site. He stated the neighborhood did have a
problem with the Ford Dealership and light pollution. He requested the business not
create any additional light pollution.
Mr. Hovis stated the building would be lite with building lighting only. He stated there
were no poles or parking lot lighting. He stated the sign located only the parkway would
be lite. He stated if the neighborhood had concerns with the sign light the light could be
turned off at midnight. He stated all building lighting would be shielded and turned
downward into the site.
Ms. Ruth Bell addressed the Commission in opposition of the request. She stated the
League of Women Voters were not supportive of expanding the commercial activities as
proposed by the applicant. She stated if the business was a neighborhood oriented
business then why was a change in zoning request being made. She stated she felt
this was the nibble, nibble, nibble approach. She stated the area to the west of the
Villages of Wellington Drive should remain as neighborhood commercial uses and the
more intense uses located as were currently zoned and indicated on the plan. She
0
ILE NO.: Z-8458 (Cont.
stated based on the number of parking spaces proposed it appeared the business was
an intense business. She stated the rotation of eight to twelve vehicles at a time was an
intense use. She stated she felt this was to intense use of a use for the site.
There was a general discussion of the Commission and the applicant concerning the
proposed development. The Commission questioned the applicant if the application
request was solely for their use and franchise or if the use would be a transferable use.
Mr. Hovis stated he did not want to lock the business into Christian Brother's ownership.
He stated occasionally stores were sold. He stated it was also possible the store could
change franchises and he did not want to hinder a future sale or owner. He stated
placing a condition on the approval that future users of the site were required to operate
under the same conditions as Christian Brother's was agreeable.
The Commission also questioned how long the business would operate on Saturday.
Mr. Hovis stated for the first 120 days after receiving their CO the business would
operate with Saturday hours. He stated after the 120 days the business would only
operate Monday through Friday and the closing hour would be 6:00 pm.
The Commission questioned the proposed lighting, signage and sign lighting. Mr. Hovis
stated the sign lighting would be turned off at midnight daily. He stated there would be
no poles within the parking lot. He stated the building lighting would be low level and
directed into the parking lot. Mr. Hovis stated the sign would comply with the Chenal
Parkway DOD standards. He stated electronic signage would not be incorporated into
the ground mounted sign.
The Commission questioned outdoor activities that would take place on the site.
Mr. Hovis stated there would be no parking of vehicles outdoors overnight and no
service of vehicles in the parking lot during the daylight hours.
The Commission questioned the landscape treatment along the western perimeter.
Mr. Hovis stated he was willing to install plantings in this area and work with staff and
the adjacent church concerning the tree placement and the tree species to be located
within the buffer area.
The Commission questioned the statement "do not typically install tire". Mr. Hovis
stated if a customer was in for service and the technician noticed the tires were in need
of replacing they would suggest the customer go to a tire store for replacement tires.
He stated if the customer was instant on Christian Brother's performing the work the
business would go to the tire store, purchase the tires and bring them back and place
on the customers automobile. The Commission questioned if a special customer
requested body work would the business then perform this activity. Mr. Hovis stated the
business was not equipped to perform body repairs.
The Commission questioned staff if their recommendation had changed based on the
amendments made by the applicant. Staff stated they were still opposed to the request.
Staff stated the use was a C-4, Open Display District uses. Staff stated they felt based
on the intensity of the use this was not an appropriate location for the use. Staff stated
9
FILE NO.: Z-8458
they were concerned with the overall area and the potential this change would have on
adjacent properties.
Commissioner Yates questioned the drive indicated on the plan and the note stating
future access easement. Staff stated the drive was to share with two lots located to the
east to allow access to Wellington Hills Drive. Commissioner Yates questioned if staff
was not concerned with the backing of vehicles into the access easement. Staff stated
based on the number of cars anticipated to use the easement the backing into the
easement was not a concern.
Commissioner Yates questioned if the detention basin would be maintained. Staff
stated the basin would be maintained as a landscape feature. Staff stated some basins
were constructed as wetlands which were not to be moved and cut. Staff stated others
were landscape features which were maintained.
There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for approval
of the item including all amendments as presented by the applicant including, the
placement of evergreen plantings as the screening mechanism along the western
perimeter, the turning off of the sign lighting at midnight daily, no Saturday hours after
120 days from receiving the businesses CO, no electronic signage, no parking lot pole
lighting, all lighting shielded downward and into the site, no outdoor vehicle storage or
working of vehicles outdoors, all future users of the site are to abide by the same
conditions as the Christian Brother's Automotive.
The motion carried by a vote of 6 ayes, 3 noes and 2 absent.
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