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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1994-05-03 PZC MINUTESCITY OF ENGLEWOOD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MAY 3, 1994 I. CALL TO ORDER. Chairman Covens called the regular meeting of the City Planning and Zoning Commission to order at 7:00 P.M. in the City Council Chambers of Englewood City Hall. Members present: Mason , Shoop , Tobin, Becker, Clemens , Dummer, Garrett , Covens Merkel , Ex-officio Members absent: None Also present: Planning Administrator Harold J. Stitt Assistant City Attorney Dan Brotzman II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES. April 5 , 1994 Chairman Covens stated that the Minutes of April 5, 1994 were to be considered for approval. (::lemens moved: Dummer seconded: The Minutes of April 5, 1994 be approved as written. AYES: NAYS : ABSTAIN: ABSENT: Shoop, Becker, Clemens, Dummer, Garrett None Mason , Tobin, Covens None The motion carried. ill. COLORADO HOMES REZONING I-1, Light Industry to R-2, Medium Density Residence CASE #6-94 Chairman Covens stated that the case before the Commission is a request for rezoning. Mr. Covens gave the parameters for conduct of the Hearing , and asked for a motion to open the Hearing. Becker moved: Tobin seconded : The Public Hearing on Case #6-94 be opened. AYES: NAYS: Shoop , Tobin, Becker, Clemens, Dummer, Garrett, Mason, Covens None 1 ABSENT: ABSTAIN: None None The motion carried. Mr. Covens asked that Planning Administrator Stitt present the case. Harold J. Stitt, Planning Administrator, was sworn in. A copy of the published notice of the Hearing was presented to the Chair. Mr. Stitt stated he understood that the applicant does not have the "certification of posting" with him at this time, and suggested the Chair ask the appli- cant to affirm the posting of the property when he addresses the Commission. Mr. Stitt stated that the rezoning request encompasses the block bounded by West Jefferson Avenue on the north, South Galapago Street on the east, West Kenyon Avenue on the south, and South Huron Street on the west. The present zoning of this block is I-1, Light Industry; the applicant re- quests R-2, Medium Density Residence. There is industrial zoning to the west and north of this block; to the east the zoning is R-4, Residential/Professional, and R-1-C Single-family Residence to the south. Mr. Stitt gave the zoning history of this site, noting that industrial zoning has been imposed since at least 1955; prior to that time, the site was zoned for agricultural purposes. The site was developed with greenhouses for a number of years, and was part of the "carnation indus- try" in the City. The Comprehensive Plan generalized land use section indicates high density residence development in this block. Mr. Stitt clarified that a Comprehensive Plan shows how land should be developed in the long term. The applicant, Mr. Shipley, has made an offer to purchase the property conditioned on the re- zoning of the property to allow residential development. The proposed development is a mixed single family/townhome development. The townhomes are proposed on the north end of the block and will provide a buffer between the single-family homes and the industrial uses to the north. Mr. Stitt cited the development of the industrial uses to the west of the subject block, noting that it is comprised of offices and warehousing. Mr. Stitt also discussed the R-4 Residential/Professional District to the east of the subject block; this zoning will allow single- family and two-family residential development, as well as professional offices. Mr. Stitt stated that the R-2 designation requested by Mr. Shipley is appropriate, and empha- sized that the issue before the Commission is that of "zoning", and not of proposed develop- ment. Mr. Stitt asked if the Commission members had questions of him. Mrs. Becker inquired about the maximum density allowable in the R-2 District. Mr. Stitt confirmed that the maximum density in the R-2 District is 14.5 units per acre. Mrs. Becker inquired whether this development would require Planned Development approval. Mr. Stitt stated it will not; Planned Development approval is required for multi-family developments with more than four units. 2 Mr. Garrett asked what the projected density could be were this block to be zoned and devel- oped for high density residence. Mr. Stitt discussed the R-3 provisions, noting the 2.4 acre site could accommodate approximately 120 units, in five-story buildings; parking areas and landscaped areas would have to be factored in. Mr. Garrett then inquired about the density allowed if the block were to be zoned to single-family residence. Mr. Stitt stated that the only difference between the R-1-C and R-2 district as applied to the proposal would be the elimina- tion of the two three-unit townhomes on the north end of the block, replacing these with sin- gle-family homes. Ms. Tobin asked whether an alley is planned in this block. Mr. Stitt responded that he was not aware that an alley is planned, and that an alley is not required. Mrs . Becker commented that this block has been zoned for industrial purposes for a number of years, and has been vacant for quite some period of time. She inquired what has been done by the City's economic development efforts to get this site developed for industrial purposes. Mr. Stitt stated this block has been considered on several occasions, and cited a suggestion several years ago to change the zone classification from industrial to B-2. The property owners of the general industrial area were opposed to this "down zoning". Mr. Stitt stated he has had several discussions with Mr. John Hollberg regarding development of the site, and that most of these discussions have pertained to residential development. Mr. Covens noted that the application is signed by Mr. John Hollberg, and a list of own- ers/sellers for whom he is acting as the "attorney in fact"; are these -property owners joining in the application. Mr. Stitt stated that they may do so. Mr. Tim Shipley, 8534 Doubleheader Ranch Road, Morrison, was sworn in. Mr. Shipley testified that the subject block was posted for 20 consecutive days by the placement of four signs, one on each corner of the site, giving notice of the date and time of the Public Hearing. Mr. Shipley responded to questions that had been posed to Mr. Stitt, stating that no alley is planned for this block; the lots will be 50' x 133' to give added back yard depth and privacy for the purchasers. Mr. Shipley referenced a packet of information which had been placed at each Commissioner's chair, noting a schematic layout of the block contained therein, and the notation that four of the sites have already been "reserved" by potential buyers. Also contained within the packet are floor plans for prospective purchasers to choose from. Mr. Shipley stated that he began working in Englewood with Project BUILD, and the results were so suc- cessful he decided to buy vacant lots in Englewood and build homes. He has been working in Englewood for a little over one year. There is a backlog of people interested in the homes constructed by his company, and a great many of them are current Englewood residents who want to remain, but want a larger or newer residence. Mr. Shipley stated that the homes will be frame construction, but one of the purchasers has asked for a 100% brick exterior. He suggested that a diversity of materials and finishes lends to the attractiveness of any develop- ment. The proposed town homes were discussed. Mr. Shipley proposes two three-unit townhomes on the north end of the block. Mr. Shipley commented on his experience in construction of 3 multi-family units, and the townhomes will be attached, smaller homes. Mr. Shipley stated he hoped to begin construction in mid-June, but may have to delay the commencement date to allow for the City Council public hearing date. Mr. Shipley stated he proposes construction of the single-family homes first , with construction starts spanning a 12 week period; he estimated a construction time of six months for the single-family units, and will then begin construction on the townhomes. Mrs. Becker asked how much of the area is devoted to the townhomes. Mr. Shipley stated that the two sites are approximately 90' x 133', and estimated approximately one-half acre. John Hollberg, 3800 South Inca Street, was sworn in. Mr. Hollberg testified he is one of the owners of the site, the others being his brothers, his mother, and two of his aunts. He has the power of attorney for all of the signers. The Hollberg family has tried to sell this block for at least 10 years, and have, in fact, had several offers for industrial businesses such as auto repair shops, and these offers have been for a higher price than the family will receive from Mr. Shipley. However, the Hollberg family did not want that type of development on this block, and had hoped to attract developers interested in constructing a good nursing home, assisted living units, etc. Mr. Hollberg stated that if the family wanted to "split up" the property, they could sell it tomorrow for auto repair shops, etc. Mr. Hollberg testified he is of the opinion the residential development proposed by Mr. Shipley will be an asset to the specific area, and to the City. Mr. Hollberg stated he supports the requested rezoning from I-1, Light Industry, to R-2, Medium Density Residence. Mr. Covens inquired if anyone wished to address the Commission. No other members of the audience indicated a desire to speak. Mr. Stitt stated the City's position is that the proposal is in compliance with the Comprehen- sive Plan, the proposed zoning and development will be compatible with the adjacent devel- opment, and the proposed development will be of benefit to the City in the long run. Garrett moved: Mason seconded: The Public Hearing on Case #6-94 be closed. AYES: NAYS: Tobin, Becker, Clemens, Dummer, Garrett, Mason, Shoop, Covens None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None The motion carried. Chairman Covens asked the pleasure of the Commission. Clemens moved: Tobin seconded: The Planning Commission recommend to City Council that the rezoning request filed by Mr. Tim Shipley, d/b/a Colorado Homes for a change 4 of zone classification from I-1, Light Industry, to R-2, Medium Density Residence, be approved. Mrs. Becker reminded members of the Commission the rezoning, if approved, will allow a density of 14.5 units per acre. The applicant may or may not follow through with the proposal of single-family units with two three-unit townhouses. Mr. Mason suggested that even if the site were to be developed at the density of 14.5 units per acre, would it not be an improvement to the City and to the neighborhood over a vacant lot, or the prospective industrial develop- ment cited by Mr. Hollberg. Mr. Covens commented that were the block to be zoned for sin- gle-family development, the "buffering" provided by the two townhouse sites would be lost. Mrs. Becker stated that she will vote in favor of the motion, but did not want the Commission to forget they were voting for anything but "zoning". Brief discussion ensued. The vote was called: AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: Becker, Clemens, Dummer, Garrett, Mason, Shoop, Tobin, Covens None None None The motion carried . Mr. Shipley was advised his request will be referred to City Council at their next meeting. IV. ENGLEWOOD. SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT Mr. Merkel discussed the Englewood, Something To Talk About (ESTTA) program, which is a community outreach effort begun last year. There were an estimated 40 meetings throughout the summer months, with an average attendance of six to eight individuals, but occasionally higher. The meetings were hosted by Neighborhood Watch block captains, or volunteers, and the City is hoping to expand the number of people willing to host such a meeting, and is ask- ing board and commission members if they would be willing to be a host. Mr. Merkel dis- cussed the procedure that was followed in 1993, and suggested that the 1994 procedure will probably be very similar; the meetings were two hours in length, on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, or Saturday mornings. The City provides a short video, staff members attendance to answer questions, and some refreshments for those in attendance. Mrs. Becker stated she would host a meeting, provided it could be scheduled after July 4th. Mr. Covens stated he would host a business meeting. Mr. Garrett volunteered to host an ESTTA meeting, as did Ms. Tobin. Ms. Tobin asked whether the meetings could be hosted at a meeting room or other neutral location, such as Miller Field, rather than inviting strangers into one's home. Mr. Merkel stated that he would check into this for Ms. Tobin. 5 v. PUBLIC FORUM. No one was present to address the Commission. VI. DIRECTOR'S CHOICE. Mr. Merkel discussed a workshop hosted by the Denver Regional Council of Governments scheduled for May 14. Deadline for registration is May 6. Any members interested in attend- ing were asked to call staff so that registrations can be made. The next meeting of the Commission, May 17, will be devoted to discussion of the Capital Improvement Program. Mr. Merkel reviewed a meeting he and Mr. Stitt had attended earlier in the day with Director of Finance Hayes, and Engineering Manager Kahm on the CIP. Mr. Merkel stated that the packets for the next meeting will include the process information, and the final list recommended in 1993. He commented that several of the projects recommended by the Commission are underway, or on the drawing board. Mr. Stitt expanded on the role of the Commission in considering the Capital Improvement Program, and suggested that the Commission's consideration should be in very broad terms, rather than project specific. Mr. Merkel stated that the Englewood By Design group has proposed contracting with Mr. Jo- seph Racine to facilitate the public meetings they will be scheduling. Assisting Mr. Racine will be Ms. Gail Hermsen. The Englewood By Design group has requested an official repre- sentative of the Planning Commission to be on the standing committee. The next meeting is scheduled for May 18; the meetings begin at 6:00 P.M. and end at 8:00 P.M. Discussion en- sued. Ms. Tobin volunteered to attend , and Mrs. Becker and Mr. Mason volunteered to serve as alternate members if Ms. Tobin cannot attend the meetings. Mr. Merkel reminded members of the Commission of the study session with City Council on May 16, 6:00 P.M. Mr. Mason asked if the Englewood By Design members were also to be in attendance. Discussion ensued. Mr. Clemens stated his understanding of the request was to have City Council clarify the role of the Planning Commission versus the role of Englewood By Design. It was the consensus of the Commission that the study session should be with City Council, and not ask that Englewood By Design be included . VII. COMMISSIONER'S CHOICE. Mr. Clemens stated that he and his wife have purchased a home in Castle Rock, and will be moving out of Englewood the end of May. He submitted a letter of resignation from the Commission, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve, and thanked members and staff for the opportunity to work with them. Members of the Commission expressed deep regret on Mr. Clemens' resignation, and wished him good health and happiness in his new home. 6 Mr. Shoop inquired on progress to relocate the Englewood Depot. Mr. Merkel stated it is in progress, and should be accomplished mid-summer, at latest. The move will be actually be done over-night to avoid as much traffic congestion as possible. Mr. Mason updated the Commission on the Belleview Park airplane. Councilman Vormittag and his father have patched the holes in the plane, and has suggested the need for the volun- teers to paint the plane. Mr. Mason stated he has been told by the Parks personnel that the airplane is not an approved playground apparatus, which is the reason it is fenced off. The liability of child injury on an unapproved playground apparatus is of great concern to City administrators, and the suggestion has been made to place the plane on 12 foot pylons to pre- vent children from climbing on the plane. Discussion ensued. The scheduling of meetings for the Commission, the cancellation of meetings, and timely no- tice of cancellation or new schedules, was raised by Mr. Mason. Discussion ensued. Mr. Stitt discussed the efforts of the staff to work with applicants to schedule issues before the Com- mission in a timely manner. Every effort is made to get public hearings scheduled before the Commission within 30 days of receipt of a complete application. Further discussion ensued. Mrs. Becker suggested the possiblity of a meeting to "learn something new", or have a histori- cal review of existing codes and ordinances if there is no case item for an agenda. The impor- tance of direction for the Planning Commission was stressed by Mrs. Becker. Mrs. Becker stated that she also understood that we have limited staff resources, and that members of the staff have numerous evening meetings to attend. Mr. Stitt suggested the staff and Commission put together a schedule of topics for discussion. This could be of assistance in scheduling matters for the Commission. General discussion en- sued. Ms. Tobin stated that people are concerned that Englewood has lost control of our water sup- ply, noting that Englewood used to have water for sale to outlying districts, and this does not appear to be true now. Mr. Shoop suggested that members of the Commission consider whom to nominate for Vice- Chair, which will be vacated upon Mr. Clemens' resignation. There was nothing further to come before the Commission, and the meeting adjourned at 8:35 P.M. Gertrude G. Welty,.'Recording S ~tary 7