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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992-05-05 PZC MINUTESCITY OF ENGLEWOOD PLANNING AND ZONJNG COMMISSION MA:Y 5, 1992 I. CALL TO ORDER. The regular meeting of the City Planning and Zoning Commission was called to order by Chairman Schultz at 7:00 P. M. in the City Council Chambers of Englewood City Hall. Members Present: Glynn, Shoop, Tobin, Covens, Draper, Dummer, Schultz Martin, Acting Ex-officio Members Absent: Gerlick (with previous notice) Leonard (entered the meeting at 7:05 P.M.) Also Present: Harold J. Stitt, Planner II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES. April 21, 1992 Chairman Schultz stated the Minutes of April 21, 1992 were to be considered for approval. Tobin moved: Glyrin seconded: The Minutes of April 21, 1992 be approved as written. AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: Glynn, Shoop, Tobin, Covens, Draper, Dummer, Schultz None Gerlick, Leonard None The motion carried. III. WEST EV ANS A VENUE Zone Designation CASE #4-9 2 Mr. Stitt displayed a map of the northwest Englewood area, and indicated property on West Evans Avenue which was formerly owned by "Krazy Kurtz", and has now been purchased by Bill Farring- ton. Mr. Stitt presented a brief summary of activities related to the subject property , citing Board of Adjustment actions, the fact that Omni Bank assumed control of the property but chose not to pursue a rezoning of the area, and the fact that Mr. Farrington has now purchased the site and cleaned it up. Mr. Stitt outlined the zone districts in the immediate area: West Evans Avenue is zoned B-2 , Busi- ness, for an approximate depth of 125 feet; between South Raritan and South Tejon Street the zoning is I-1, Light Industrial, and west of South Tejon Street to South Zuni Street is zoned R-2-C , Medium Density Residence. There is no alley through this block, and the business structure on Mr. Forring- ton's property encroaches into the R-2-C District very slightly. Mr. Forrington has had several in- quiries from persons interested in leasing or buying the property, but the uses they have proposed are not permitted in the B-2 Zone District. Mr. Farrington appeared before the Commission in April at which time he requested the Commission consider modification of the uses permitted in the B-2 Dis- trict, or a new classification which would more nearly fit the character of the area. Ms . Leonard entered the meeting and took her chair with the members of the Commission. Mr. Stitt stated that he has reviewed the Denver B-4 Zone District (the zoning applied to the north side of Evans Avenue in this area), and it appears that some light manufacturing uses and auto body repair shops are allowed in addition to the typical retail uses of business districts. Mr. Stitt pointed out that this particular strip of B-2 Zoning in Englewood is quite unlike other B-2 areas in town , and in viewing the development of this area and the surrounding development in Denver , it seems to be a 1 logical approach to develop a new zone classification which would encompass the typical uses in the B-2 District and also some of the light industrial uses. The new district would then be applied to the entire West Evans strip, as well as extending south to West Adriatic Place extended between South 9 Vallejo Street and South Zuni Street. Mr. Stitt stated that a mandatory buffer approximately 25 feet in depth would be required where this proposed new zone designation would abut or be adjacent to the residential district. Mr. Stitt stated that he has discussed this idea only with other staff members, and now with the Commission. If the Commission feels this concept has merit, they should direct staff to proceed with drafting the new zone designation for their consideration. Mr. Stitt pointed out that the new district will have to be considered by the Commission and the City Council at public hearings prior to enactment, and the properties will then have to be "rezoned" to the new designation. Ms. Tobin inquired whether traffic studies had been done to consider whether the proposal would in- crease traffic in the area and impact children walking to school. Mr. Stitt acknowledged that this is a legitimate concern, and indicated he would check with the Traffic Division regarding this issue. Mr. Draper pointed out that there is a traffic light at Evans and Zuni, and that probably most of the traffic will want to use the controlled intersection. Mr. Schultz asked what procedure would be followed if West Adriatic were to be improved through the block between Vallejo and Zuni; would the City pay for the paving, curb, gutter and sidewalk, or would the property owners be assessed for those improvements. Mr. Stitt suggested that this is an is- sue that would have to be worked out with the property owners, Public Works Department, and the City Council. He pointed out that there appear to be six parcels that have not dedicated right-of-way for West Adriatic. One of these parcels is that presently owned by Mr. Farrington, and while this has not been discussed with him, it is staff's impression that he might be amenable to dedicating the right- of-way. Mr. Stitt also discussed the need for a utilities easement mid-block to serve the block. Dis- cussion followed. Mr. Schultz inquired what uses are permitted in the Denver B-4 District. Mr. Stitt cited "fabrication"' "special trade contractors"' "gas stations"' "auto wash"' "auto repair garage"' "boat re-e pair", just to name a few uses. Uses included in the fabrication and special trade contractors encom- pass a number of the light industrial uses that are permitted in the Englewood I-1 Zone District. Mr. Stitt stated that the new district could combine the existing B-2 Zone permitted uses with selected light industrial uses, include landscaping provisions, parking provisions, etc. Mr. Stitt stated that he has not contacted any of the other property owners in the northwest Englewood area, and this should be one of the first steps to take to determine whether such a proposal is worth- while. Mr. Schultz suggested the possibility of scheduling a meeting with the property owners at the Alternative High School in that neighborhood. Mr. Schultz inquired whether Mr. Forrington's request could be handled by the Board of Adjustment & Appeals. Mr. Stitt addressed the issues the Board may consider, and stated that in his opinion this is not a matter that should go before the Board. Draper moved: Covens seconded: The staff be directed to continue investigation and development of a new B-3 Zone District. Mr. Shoop asked for a clarification of the B-1 vs B-2 zone districts. Mr. Stitt stated that the B-1 Zone District is the downtown business district, and the B-2 is more highway or traffic oriented . Mr. Shoop then asked how much of the I-1 District will be duplicated in the proposed B-3. Mr. Stitt sug- gested that only a select few of the industrial uses would be included in the proposed new district. Mr. Shoop inquired whether there are other areas of Englewood where the B-3 District, once devel- oped, might be applied. Mr. Stitt stated there are not. Further discussion ensued. Mr. Covens expressed concern that industrial uses that make use of chemicals should not be allowed. Mr. Stitt stated that such uses can be excluded. He further pointed out that businesses making use of chemicals are covered by the Fire Code. 2 e Mr. Schultz called for the vote on the motion. AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: Leonard, Shoop, Tobin, Covens, Draper, Dummer, Glynn, Schultz None Ger lick None The motion carried. IV. COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE Proposed B-1 and B-2 Amendment Mr. Stitt discussed a request from Mayor Wiggins to the Commission asking for consideration of a proposed amendment to the B-1 and B-2 Zone Districts to prohibit "outdoor theaters, outdoor band shells, or outdoor concert facilities." Mr. Stitt displayed a schematic plan for development of the former Arapahoe County Fair- grounds/South Drive-in Theater site proposed by the South Suburban Metropolitan Parks & Recre- ation District, present owners of this property. The proposed development plan does indicate a small amphitheater on the southeast corner of the former County Fairgrounds site. Mr. Stitt stated that he understands that one of Mayor Wiggins' concerns is that of noise. The Mayor directed City Attorney DeWitt to draft an amendment to the B-1 and B-2 zone districts to prohibit this use, and it is now pre- sented to the Commission with a request for their consideration. Mr. Stitt stated that he has been un- successful in his attempts to contact Mayor Wiggins to more fully discuss his concerns. If, indeed, Mayor Wiggins' concern is that of noise, Title 6 of the Englewood Municipal Code does have provi- sions whereby noise emanating from such a use can be controlled. Permits have to be issued by the City to hold outdoor concerts. Mr. Stitt pointed out that there has been widespread concern regarding the patrons attracted by the concerts held at the Gothic Theater, and it may be that this same concern is being applied to the South Suburban proposal. Mr. Glynn stated that in his opinion, these are legitimate concerns, and that City Council should have to give approval prior to any outdoor concerts. Ms. Tobin agreed there are legitimate concerns, but felt the Commission also needed more information. Mr. Stitt agreed that there does need to be more information, and that he will continue trying to contact Mayor Wiggins to determine the reasoning for the proposal. Mr. Schultz stated that he sits on the committee that is overseeing the proposed development plans of South Suburban. He pointed out that they are looking for revenue enhancing projects for the devel- opment. He stated that a band shell and amphitheater is proposed for the southeast sector of the for- mer Fairgrounds site, but he was not aware that any concerns had been voiced until he received the packet for the meeting this evening. Mr. Schultz stated that the committee he sits on has members representing South Suburban and the City of Littleton, as well as Englewood residents. Great sensi- tivity to the needs of the neighborhood has been shown in planning the proposed development of the site. Mr. Schultz stated that he is aware that care has been exercised in the planning for the am- phitheater, in that lighting is to be directed away from the Littleton residential area, parking in resi- dential areas will be kept to a minimum, and there will be berms to absorb sound. The entire devel- opment is proposed to be "people-oriented", and there will no street access for law enforcement offi- cials. The southeast corner of the Fairgrounds site was chosen because of the problem with street noise from Belleview Avenue. Mr. Schultz stated that he understood the intent is not to have big rock or heavy metal concerts, but rather small string ensembles and family shows. Mr. Stitt suggested that prior to the Commission taking action, there is a need for more information: is this a final proposal from South Suburban, the actual design of the amphitheater, and what are the concerns of Mayor Wiggins. 3 Discussion ensued. Ms. Tobin stated that she would like more information on the parking situation, and whether concerns have been expressed in this regard. Mr. Stitt stated that he had spoken with one of the planners for South Suburban, and she was more concerned about the parking facilities for the 9 softball fields. Brief discussion ensued. Mr. Stitt stated that staff would gather more information regarding the issue, and report back to the Commission at the next meeting. V. PUBLIC FORUM. No one was present to address the Commission. VI. DIRECTOR'S CHOICE. Ms. Martin reported that City Council approved the concrete district on second reading, with the amendments that administrative costs will not be assessed to the homeowners, and the elimination of sidewalk construction on Belleview Avenue and Lowell Boulevard. The Concrete Task Force is con- tinuing study of financing sidewalk repairs and replacements, and are considering a potential ballot is- sue for the November, 1993 election. Mr. Schultz asked if this was the last year that a concrete curb, gutter and sidewalk district would be formed. Ms. Martin stated that Public Works personnel have identified a sufficient number of proper- ties to warrant at least one more year's work to repair all the curb, gutter and sidewalk. Ms. Martin stated that advertisement for the Community Development Director's position has been placed in national publications, and will be in local publications very shortly. Applications are re- quested by mid-June, with interviews to be conducted in July. Hopefully, a new Director can be hired before the end of summer. Ms. Martin discussed the PIF budget process. The City Charter requires that the Planning Commis- sion consider all Capital Improvement Projects proposed by the various departments, prioritize those projects and submit a recommendation to the City Manager. Ms. Martin emphasized the need for the Commission to consider all projects, no matter which fund (General, Water, Sewer, etc.) the projects would be funded under. Ms. Martin stated that the Commission will be required to consider not only projects for funding in 1993, but for 1994 and beyond. The Public Works Department is presently compiling a list of the requests from the various departments, boards and commissions, and represen- tatives of all departments, boards and commissions will be present at the Planning Commission meet- ing of June 2 to discuss the projects. Ms. Martin stated that the Commission will need to view the re- quested projects from a "community perspective", not from the financial aspect, and the prioritized list must be developed for transmitting to the City Manager at the June 16 meeting. Mr. Schultz asked if this information could be gotten to the Commission earlier than the Friday pre- ceding the Tuesday meeting. Ms. Martin assured members that every effort will be made to get the information to them as early as possible. Discussion ensued. Ms. Tobin inquired about scheduling a study session on June 9. Ms. Martin suggested that this not be scheduled at this point in time; if, at the June 2 meeting, there appear to be issues that require additional consideration the study session could be scheduled at that time. Also considered was starting the meeting earlier than the usual time; 6:00 P.M. was suggested. Several members indicated that 6:00 P.M. was too early. Mr. Draper suggested meeting at 6:30 on June 2 rather than the usual 7:00. This was acceptable to members, and the meeting will be scheduled at 6:30 P.M. Mr. Dummer inquired about the possibility of scheduling the presentations over two evenings. Ms. Martin stated that this could well depend on the number of projects that are requested. Mr. Covens asked if there is a cap on the funding allocated for CIP projects. Ms. Martin stated that each fund has an amount allocated each year, and some projects are phased over a multiple year pe- riod of time. 4 Ms. Martin stated that the Town Meeting has been scheduled for May 13 in the Perrin Room of the Englewood Public Library. This meeting will begin at 7:30 P.M.; new police vehicles, the new fire truck, and new bookmobile will be on display in the north parking lot. Ms. Martin again asked that any members interested in attending the CML conference in Ft. Collins please notify staff so that reservations can be made. Mr. Schultz stated that he will be attending on Wednesday, June 17. SECRETARY'S NOTE: After the meeting adjourned, C. J. Glynn indicated he will also attend the conference on June 17. Ms. Martin stated that there are a very limited number of the revised Housing Section of the Compre- hensive Plan available. If members need an additional copy, they may pick one up at the close of the meeting. VII. COMMISSIONER'S CHOICE. Mr. Covens reported that the Tri-Cities Planning Group has met twice in the last three weeks; an RFP for architectural services for a concept design should go out this week. This RFP should cover mat- ters such as sound barriers, lighting, and other enhancements along Santa Fe to present to the De- partment of Transportation. There is limited funding for this scope of work, and the goal is to im- prove the aesthetics and reduce the negative impact of the Santa Fe corridor. The next meeting is May 7th, and funding issues will be discussed. Ms. Martin stated that the City of Sheridan, Pace Warehouse, and some other businesses ha ve "intervened" in the project; it is their position that frontage roads to provide access to businesses on the west side of Santa Fe were promised to them, and it appears that the construction and improve- ments will be concentrated on the east side and they feel they will not have proper access to their businesses. This intervention could delay the project until at least October. Brief discussion fo l - lowed. Mr. Covens asked what progress has been made on the Planned Development for Treecycle. Mr. Stitt stated that he spoke with Mr. Frizzell very recently, and they are still having a problem getting an acceptable survey of the property. He estimated that the Planned Development would be ready for consideration sometime in June. Mr. Stitt stated that he has also spoken to Mr. Villareal about the task force that was discussed at the time of the Public Meeting on April 7; he is interested in serving on this task force. Mr. Stitt stated that he has also called Mr. Mike Magee of Waste Management Denver-South, because this company accepts shingles to transport to a recycling site. Mr. Stitt stated that he could not say at this time whether there will be something concrete to report to the Commission at the next meeting. Mr. Schultz asked what concerns had been expressed by City Council regarding the latest Planned Development for Swedish Medical Center. Mr. Stitt stated that no "concerns" were voiced, but Council does want to give every opportunity to residents to voice any concerns they may have ; there- fore , they determined to hold a Public Hearing on the latest amendment to the PD; this is scheduled for May 18. There being nothing further to come before the Commission, the meeting adjourned at 8:40 P .M. Gertrude G. Welty Recording Secretary 5