Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Planning Commission - 04/23/1992 MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL APRIL 23, 1992 - 6 :30 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: * Shirley Mims, Chairman Mike Karm, Vice Chairman Robert Canales Ralph Hall Alma Meinrath William Sanderson * Lamont Taylor Ro Wickham MEMBERS ABSENT: Jake Sanchez STAFF PRESENT: Brandol M. Harvey, AIA, AICP Director of Planning & Development Marcia Cooper, Recording Secretary Robert Payne, AICP, Senior City Planner Harry Power, City Planner Ruben Perez, Assistant City Attorney CALL TO ORDER Chairman Mims called the meeting to order, and described the procedure to be followed. NEW PLATS Consideration of plats as described on attached addendum. PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE PLATTING ORDINANCE NO. 4168 AS AMENDED ESTABLISHES MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR STREET PAVEMENT DESIGN. THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT DELETES SECTION V-B-1 (a) , (b) , AND (e) , ADOPTS AN AMENDED SECTION V-B-1 (a) , (b) , AND (c) AND RENUMBERS THE REMAINING SUBSECTIONS SECTION V-B-1 (c) , (d) , AND (f) AS (f) , (g) , AND (h) RESPECTIVELY. Mr. Carl Crull, Director of Engineering, stated that the Platting Ordinance has a specified paving section used throughout the City. Over the years, streets that were built with those sections are experiencing advanced deterioration due to traffic, and other elements . Staff is proposing that the Platting Ordinance be amended to require performance base criteria based on site conditions such as traffic, drainage, etc. He explained the * Chairman Mims and Commissioner Taylor left the meeting at 7 :40 p.m. SCANNED Planning Commission Meeting April 22, 1992 Page 2 procedure that would be used as described in the proposal. Mr. Crull added that Staff has received questions and comments about the proposal, and would recommend that the public hearing be held for public input, that the Staff meet with those who are concerned, and come back to the Commission with a recommendation for approval. Mr. Gene Urban, Urban Engineering, appeared and agreed that public input is needed. He felt that a better understanding of the total consequences of the proposal should be understood, before a change is made to the Platting Ordinance. In answer to questions from Mr. Urban, Mr. Crull stated that utility main lines would not be placed under the rigid pavement, and Staff would like to have storm sewers outside the pavement area also. He added that he did cost figures on a City project, and found that it would cost approximately $550 per lot to establish streets as required in the proposal. Mr. Crull felt that if a little more is put into streets when they are built, it may prolong the life of the street which may not need maintenance for a while. Maintaining streets are less expensive than reworking the streets about five years after it is built. Vice Chairman Karm felt that more answers are needed such as if the proposal will really work, how soon will paving be required, and how much will it cost the second time around. Mr. Charles Seiver, 861 Swift appeared and stated that he works for Al Hogan Builders . He stressed that the proposal needs more study by those people who plan the subdivision and order construction of the streets . He felt that the' more rigid streets being proposed would be more likely to snap quicker, given the soil condition in the City. Mr. Dennis Lang, Maverick Engineering, appeared and pointed out that engineers should represent the public and keep their health and welfare in mind. He felt that the analytical procedure to get a good street is in the proposal, and he supports the proposal. He was concerned about the economic impact the proposed amendment could cause. The public hearing was declared closed. Commissioner Taylor commented that if he purchased a new house, he would expect the streets to hold up as long as the house. He stated that he would like Staff to work with the public, and then make a recommendation to the Planning Commission that everyone can live with. Planning Commission Meeting April 22, 1992 Page 3 Motion by Taylor, seconded by Meinrath that Staff work with interested people on the proposed amendment to the Platting Ordinance, and come back to the Commission with a recommendation. Discussion followed on the economic impact, and making sure that the proposal would produce good streets . Commissioner •Sanderson felt that quality construction would be the answer to good streets . Commission felt that the best solution would be one . that leaves less interpretation by the governing body. Motion passed with Sanchez being absent. Chairman Mims stated that the Planning Commission will be represented on the Committee studying the proposal. The meeting recessed at 7 :40 p.m. , and reconvened at 7 :45 p.m. Vice Chairman Mims and Commissioner Taylor left the meeting at this time. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE STAFF- RECOMMENDED PORT/AIRPORT/VIOLET AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN. Vice Chairman Karm stated the purpose of the public hearing, and explained the Comprehensive Plan, the process that is followed to adopt a plan, and the City Charter requirements . He opened the public hearing. Mr. Robert Payne, Sr. City Planner, explained the purpose of the Port/Airport/Violet Area Development Plan, and oriented the Commission on the boundaries of the area being considered. He also pointed out landmarks and existing land uses, noting that most of the area is vacant. He felt that it is important to recognize the impact the airport has in the area, and the plan for airport expansion. The objectives of the plan are to develop a compatible land use and transportation network to serve the area, protect the airport and Oso Creek. Mr. Payne reviewed maps showing the airport development concept, areas proposed for annexation, proposed loop system concept, future transportation plan and proposed land use. Mr. Payne addressed pipelines, stating that the City is given little authority by the State in regard to pipelines . The plan proposes to route pipelines away from residential areas, and where feasible route pipelines in street rights-of-way. The plan also suggests that the Railroad Commission should hold local public hearings when they are considering converting pipelines to carry more hazardous substances, and that the City, State and Port should create pipeline corridors . Planning Commission Meeting April 22, 1992 Page 4 A lady from the audienceappeared and asked questions about the proposed land use, specifically about proposed industrial zoning. She stated that she was interested in what will happen to the area behind their residence, and that she was concerned about the safety of the people. Ms . Jean Foster, 1118 Vernon, appeared and asked if the .future zoning of their neighborhood will be industrial, what will happen to them. Vice Chairman Karm responded that Staff has made a recommendation, but this is a public hearing to receive input, before the Commission makes a recommendation to the City Council. Ms . Foster commented that the Railroad Commission does not tell the pipeline company where they can go, but they were informed that the City can stop that. Mr. Payne stated that if the neighborhood wants to preserve itself, then this is the time to discuss it with the Planning Commission. The plan is designed to be a reasonable guideline when rezoning is requested. The purpose is not to get rid of businesses, homes, etc. Mrs. Leo Champion, 1117 Donna, appeared and stated that they are almost industrial without being zoned industrial. She noted that there is a pipeline in the frontage road and through the neighborhood. She addressed the brine line which is not located within this area development plan. She felt that the neighborhood and industry needs to mesh together to see what could be done, such as relocating the neighborhood. Mrs . Truman Brooks, 1038 Golla, appeared and stated that she has lived in the neighborhood for 40 years, and they are being squeezed out. She asked what is the alternative for them,, and noted that there is a lot of pollution, and most of the residents are old, and not able to move. Ms . Joy Placker, 1006 Vernon, appeared and commented on the flare from the Javelina plan, which is turned on late at night. She informed the Commission that property was purchased by industry on Dunn Lane for $25,000, and she was afraid that the same situation would occur in their neighborhood. Mr. Harvey commented that Dunn Lane was considered in the Westside Area Development Plan, and that property was zoned industrial for years . The land use plan was anticipating industrial for that area which was developed residential. Prior to 1974, residential use was allowed in industrial zoning districts. Planning Commission Meeting April 22, 1992 Page 5 The Westside Area Development Plan recommended that the Dunn Lane area develop industrial, and have residences transition. It is not the City's responsibility to relocate residences . Mr. Fred Uhlenhaker, 1125 Vernon, appeared and stated that light industrial might be alright; that the neighborhood needs. help; and there is no way to get out of there if there is an explosion. A gentleman from the audience asked if the rezoning is approved, will his property be zoned light or heavy industry? Commissioner Sanderson stated that they have been given a lot of history of what industry has done to neighborhoods . He explained that the Commission is not rezoning anything at this meeting, and cannot undo what has already been done, and they are looking for information on what the residents of the neighborhood would like to see happen to their neighborhood in the future. Mr. Harvey noted that McBride Road and Dunn Lane are located in the Westside Area Development . Plan which was adopted in 1989 . Changes to that plan cannot be made at this meeting. If the Planning Commission chooses to amend that plan, then the public hearing process on that plan would need to be initiated. Ms . Ann Cosner appeared and stated that she was not in favor of having industrial zoning next to her property. Mr. Harvey stated that the area of concern is located within the Westside Area Development Plan. A gentleman from the audience appeared and addressed the Brine line which carries high pressure natural gas . He felt that this is an area where industry is trying to push them out and give them very little compensation. He requested that they be left alone, and not be rezoned to industrial, unless the City will pay the value of their houses . Several persons from the audience spoke at once, generally indicating opposition to industrial. One gentleman suggested that the area from McBride to Corn Products Road be left residential. In answer to questions about how to change the Westside Area Development Plan, Commissioner Hall stated that the Planning Commission is appointed by the City Council, and they have no authority over problems elaborated on at this meeting. He informed the audience that they can petition the Planning Commission and ask for rehearing on the Westside Area Development Plan, Planning Commission Meeting April 22, 1992 Page 6 The public hearing was declared closed. Mr. Harvey noted that Policy Statement D. 3 on Page 20 of the draft plan designates several roads as the preferred truck routes between the Port and Airport. He stated that Staff has come to the conclusion that Corn Products Road connecting to Talbert Road will serve that purpose best. Motion by Sanderson, seconded by Canales, that Policy Statement D. 3 .a designate Corn Products/Talbert Roads as the preferred truck route between the Port and Airport. Motion passed with Canales, Hall, Meinrath, Sanderson, Wickham and Karm voting aye, and Mims Sanchez and Taylor being absent. Mr. Harvey indicated that there are Policy Statements under Public Utilities and Services that call for the City and State to work closely and have public hearings more open to make the public aware of changes being made. Motion by Hall, seconded by Meinrath that the Port/Airport Violet Area Development Plan be forwarded to the City Council as recommended by Staff, with one amendment. Motion passed with Canales, Meinrath, Sanderson, Wickham and Karm voting aye, Mims, Sanchez and Taylor being absent. OTHER MATTERS None MATTERS NOT SCHEDULED Mr. Harvey noted that the committee to establish minimum requirements for street pavement design will meet approximately once per week for approximately 2 hours . Members of the industry are already represented, so he suggested that a member of the Commission be appointed to represent the Planning Commission and the public. Commissioner Canales volunteered to serve on that committee. Excused Absence It was moved, seconded and passed with Mims, Sanchez and Taylor being absent that Commissioner Wickham be excused from the meeting of April 8, 1992, due to a death in the family. Planning Commission Meeting April 22, 1992 Page 7 APPROVAL OF MINUTES It was moved, seconded and passed with Mims, Sanchez and Taylor being absent, and Sanderson and Wickham abstaining, that the minutes of the special meeting of April 1, 1992, and regular meeting of April 8, 1992, be approved. * * * * * * * * * * * * Vice Chairman Karm reminded Commissioners that their Financial Statements are due in the City Secretary's Office by 4:45 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 1992 . Mr. Harvey added that if the statements . are not turned in on time, that is automatic termination from the Commission. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 9 :33 p.m. At011(/)10111:6L &.219--22 /— Bran•ol ' ar ey Marcia Cooper Director of Planning Recording Secretary Executive Secretary to Planning Commission Planning Commission Meeting April 22, 1992 Page 8 NEW PLATS Addendum to minutes of consideration_ of plats . 1. 039220-P10 Cabaniss Acres, No. 2, Lot 3 (Final Plat - 2 . 0 acres) Located west of Ayers Street (State Highway 286 ) between Bevecrest and Allencrest Owner - Central Power and Light Company Engineer - Civil Design Services Mr. Power stated that there are no conditions remaining on this plat, and Staff recommends approval as submitted. Three notices were mailed, two were returned in opposition, which invokes the 20% rule. The 20% rule requires that 3/4 of the Commission (7 members) vote in the affirmative to approve the plat. Mr. Robert Arrendo, appeared in opposition, stating that he owns property adjacent to the proposed site, which houses a business and residence. He was in opposition because he. felt that transformers to his business and residence would be dangerous; the property value would be lowered, therefore making the property difficult to sell; and felt that having too much electricity around is damaging to one's health. He added that he spoke to Mr. Kosara who also returned his letter in opposition, and Mr. Kosara concurs with his opinions . Mr. Arrendo was of the opinion that CP.&L could build the sub-station away from everyone, where it would not be a problem. Chairman Mims asked. a question about a future expressway to constructed in this area, and Mr. Crull responded that the expressway will be constructed approximately 1/4 mile to the west of Ayers Street. Mr. Harvey reminded that they are considering the approval of plat which meets all the requirements of the Platting and Zoning Ordinances, and also the Comprehensive Plan. The land use of the property conforms to regulations and is not under consideration. Mr. Michael Glueck, appeared representing CP&L. He stated that CP&L purchased the property in approximately 1974, and it is easier to build on property they already own. He noted that there is an exiting transmission line that runs along the south part of the subject property, and it is Planning Commission Meeting April 22, 1992 Page 9 proposed to move 350' of the transmission line further north. which will lessen the likelihood of ill effects. Mr. .Gluek continued . stating that all structures are designed to withstand 150 mph winds, and the sub-station will go -through a hurricane with minimal damage. He added that there is a need for a substation because of the growth in the area. Mr. Larry Jones, Manager for Public Information, CP&L appeared and addressed comments relating to electricity damaging health, adding that it has not been proven, in accordance to a release from the Public Utilities Commission, that electricity is damaging to health. The public hearing was declared closed. Mr. Harvey reiterated that all conditions have been met on this plat, and Staff recommends approval as submitted. Motion by Karm, seconded by Hall, that this plat be approved as submitted. Motion passed with Sanchez being absent. 2. 049222-NP12 Goldston .Addition, Block 1, Lot 2-O.C.L. (Final - 0 . 957 acre) Located east of Goldston Road (Country Road 51A-1) between Up River Road and Interstate Highway 37 Owner - Goldston Corporation Engineer - James M. Goldston Mr. Power stated that there are no conditions remaining on this plat, and Staff recommends approval as submitted. No one appeared in favor or in opposition, and the public hearing was declared closed. . Motion by Sanderson, seconded by Taylor that this plat be approved as submitted. Motion passed with Sanchez being absent. (E227MC)