HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Planning Commission - 10/30/20191201 Leopard Street
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
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City of Corpus Christi
Meeting Minutes
Planning Commission
5:30 PM Council ChambersWednesday, October 30, 2019
Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need
auxiliary aids or services are requested to contact Gilbert Garza, at 361-826-8454
or GilbertGa@cctexas.com, no later than 48 hours prior to this meeting so that
appropriate arrangements can be made.
Call to Order, Roll CallI.
Chairman Crull called the meeting to order and a quorum was established with
no absences.
Opening StatementII.
Staff read the opening statement.
Approval of Absences: Commissioner DibbleIII.
A motion to approve the absence listed above was made by Vice Chairman
Baugh and seconded by Commissioner Hovda. The motion passed.
Approval of MinutesIV.
1.19-1498 Regular Meeting of October 16, 2019
A motion to approve item “1” was made by Vice Chairman Baugh and
seconded by Commissioner Hovda. The motion passed.
Consent Public Hearing: (Items A & B) - Discussion and Possible ActionV.
Chairman Crull asked Staff to present the Consent Agenda, items V.A and V.B.
Andrew Dimas, Development Services, read Consent Agenda, items V.A and
V.B into the record. Staff recommends approval for Variance item “2”, as
stated in Staff’s report, along with accompanying new plat item “3” which
satisfies all requirements of the UDC; the Technical Review Committee
recommends approval. For New Plat items “4 & 5”, he stated that upon
satisfaction of the remaining conditions/comments in the Plat Review
Comments document, the plats will satisfy all requirements of the UDC and
State Law; the Technical Review Committee recommends conditional
approval. New plat item “6” satisfies all requirements of the UDC and State
Law; the Technical Review Committee recommends approval. Mr. Dimas
informed the Commission that Time Extension item “7” is withdrawn as public
improvement construction has begun. Time Extension items “8 & 9” satisfy all
requirements of the UDC and Staff recommends approval.
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Chairman Crull stated that New Zoning item “10” will be pulled from the
Consent Agenda and presented separately. After Staff’s presentation,
Chairman Crull opened the public hearing for the Consent items. With no one
coming forward, the public hearing was closed. A motion was made by Vice
Chairman Baugh to approve items “2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 & 9 ” as presented. The
motion was seconded by Commissioner Dibble and the motion passed.
PlatsA.
New Plat with Variance (Waiver)
2.19-1508 19PL1091 - WASTEWATER WAIVER
MORTON MEADOWS (FINAL - 6.024 ACRES)
Located west of Flour Bluff Dr and south of Graham Road.
Request for a Waiver of the Wastewater Infrastructure Construction
Requirement in Section 8.2.7.A of the Unified Development Code (UDC),
and an Exemption from Wastewater Lot/Acreage Fees in Accordance
with Section 8.5.2.G of the UDC.
3.19-1505 19PL1091
MORTON MEADOWS (FINAL - 6.024 ACRES)
Located west of Flour Bluff Drive and south of Graham Road.
New Plats
4.19-1507 19PL1102 - CONDITIONAL
FISHPOND AT BAY TERRACE, Block 5, Lot 23, PUD (FINAL - 1.48 ACRES)
Located north of Morgan Avenue between Santa Fe Street and Staples Street.
5.19-1506 19PL1079 - CONDITIONAL
PADRE ISLAND - CORPUS CHRISTI, SECTION 4, BLK 215, LOTS 4A
& 4B (REPLAT - 0.22 ACRES)
Located south of Whitecap Blvd and west of South Padre Island Drive
(Park Road 22).
6.19-1504 19PL1040
EMPIRE SUBDIVISION (FINAL - 16.39 ACRES)
Located north of Slough Road and east of Ametrine Drive.
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Time Extensions
7.19-1499 18PL1060
BEHMANN ADDITION, BLOCK 2, LOTS 5 & 6 (FINAL - 8.48 ACRES)
Located north of South Padre Island Dr. between Crosstown Expressway
& Ayers St.
8.19-1502 18PL1090
WOOD ESTATES UNIT 4, BLOCK 50, LOT 10R (REPLAT - 0.58
ACRES)
Located north of Northwest Boulevard (FM 624) and west of Wood River
Drive.
9.19-1503 19PL1011
VIOLET ROAD RV RESORT (FINAL - 6.46 ACRES)
Located south of IH 37 and west of Violet Road.
New ZoningB.
10.19-1509 Public Hearing - Rezoning Property at or near 1442 Farm-to-Market
(FM) 43
Case No. 1019-08 - The William Earl Hensch Trust, Anna Belle
Hensch, Retta Maurine Kasper, Corpus Christi Community
Church, and South Texas Children’s Home Land Management:
Ordinance rezoning property currently being annexed at or near 1442
Farm-to-Market (FM) 43 (located along the north side of Farm-to-Market
Road 43, east of Digger Lane, and west of County Road 33) from the
“FR” Farm Rural District to the “RS-4.5” Single-Family 4.5 District (Tract
1) and “CN-1” Neighborhood Commercial District (Tract 2).
Mr. Dimas read item “10” into the record as shown above. The subject property
is 446.41 acres in size. The owner is proposing approximately 1,445
single-family residences and small commercial development along FM 43
(church). For location purposes, he presented several aerial views of the
subject property along with the Existing and Future Land Use maps. He
informed the Commission that of the 41 public notices that were mailed, one
notice was returned in opposition of the change of zoning request and zero
notices were returned in favor. Mr. Dimas went over the history of zoning
patterns, UDC requirements for the rezoning as well as available municipal
facilities. He mentioned that wastewater utilities are not yet available as a lift
station is being finalized. Based on Staff analysis, Staff recommends approval
of the change of zoning request.
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After Staff’s presentation, Chairman Crull opened the floor for Commissioner
comments/questions. Discussion took place regarding the areas to be served
(acreage) with the new wastewater infrastructure the London Area
Development Plan and street alignments/designations in the Urban
Transportation Plan (UTP). After discussion concluded, Chairman Crull opened
the public hearing.
Developer of the subject property, Moses Mostaghasi at 6725 Brockhampton,
addressed the Commission. He mentioned that he has communicated with the
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDot). He stated the amount of traffic
generated on FM 43 is 14,000 daily trips. He plans to do a Texas Department of
Insurance (TDI) report as there is no plan to install a traffic light near London
Independent School District. He addressed Commissioner questions regarding
the adopted UTP amendment for a portion of the area which includes the
addition of two collector streets to alleviate traffic. He stated that the lift station
that is being finalized will serve over 3,000 acres. He said there are
undeveloped properties nearby that are commercially zoned but the only
commercial development on the subject property will be a church. He also
expressed that he has no plans to develop an apartment complex and his
primary focus is building homes. He also discussed proposed lot sizes. He said
the smallest lot is 50 x 115 which exceeds the minimum lot size for the RS-4.5
District. Commissioner Schroeder asked how his development plans would
change if he considered the RS-6 District. Discussion also took place regarding
the King’s Landing Preliminary plat (19PL1098) that was approved at the
October 16, 2019 Planning Commission meeting. He also mentioned that the
Planning Commission recommended approval of a RS-4.5 District along CR 33
which abuts his property.
The following individuals addressed the Commission and stated their
concerns/oppositions:
Brittany Hernandez at 6602 Wesley Way
Xavier Huerta at 615 N. Upper Broadway Street
Sandra Bramsford at 2474 Loxley Drive
Arlene Martinez at 745 Buffalo Creek Drive
Lindsey G. at 2409 Shaftsbury Drive
Shane Torno at 982 Santa Cruz Lane
Jimmy Dodson at 4222 FM 665
Matt Helm at 1357 Maid Marian
Sandra Escamilla at 2410 Shaftbury Drive
Thomas Castillanos at 2489 Loxley Drive
Valerie Benavides at 2486 Loxley Drive
Fred Mary at 2626 Balchuck Drive
Veronica Hernandez at 6634 Wesley Way
Richard Harvey in London Village Subdivision
Sandra Guzman at 2504 Balchuck Drive
Jesse Fernandez at 2450 Loxley Drive
Jeff at 2534 Digger Lane
Noah at 2659 at Digger Lane
Adrian Hernandez at 6634 Wesley Way
The majority of comments consisted of concerns that the proposed
development does not fit the character of the surrounding area which includes
lots sizes of 1-acre or more. They felt that it is premature to initiate
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development without an adopted area development plan. They are wary of the
development plan and fear that an apartment complex will eventually be built
and are in opposition to commercial development in the area. They cited
safety concerns; felt that traffic issues are a problem and will be exacerbated
with the proposed development. Traffic is also an issue at London ISD at
arrival/dismissal of students. London ISD continues to grow and is currently
overcrowded. The school is not prepared for an influx of students; student
teacher ratios are not favorable. They also stated the roads in the area need
improvement are in not in good condition to withstand an increase in traffic.
They felt that the proposed use will have a negative impact on the
neighborhood and decrease property values. They also took issue with the
public notification process.
Once again, Mr. Mostaghasi addressed the Commission to speak to the public’s
comments/concerns. He stated that he has been in contact with London ISD
and the President of the School Board and they expressed their support of the
proposed project. He stated the school and the board are in discussion
regarding plans to address growth. He described his drainage plans for the
project and stated that the proposed development will drain into the Oso
Creek. He also gave more information on street connectivity. He said that
growth is inevitable and eventually the London area will have apartment
development. He invited the public to contact him for any other concerns. With
no one else coming forward, the public hearing was closed, and discussion
continued amongst Commissioners.
Commissioner Miller stated that this area needs some further planning and
thought before moving forward with development. Commissioner Hovda stated
that the London area is a blank slate for smart development and is
uncomfortable with the request for the CN-1 Distract for Tract 2. Commissioner
Schroeder encouraged the public to be more involved in planning meetings as
attendance has been low in the past. Commissioner Zarghouni asked Mr.
Mostaghasi if he is open to considering the RS-6 District instead of the RS-4.5
District. Mr. Mostaghasi stated that there will be less density if it remains at
RS.4.5. Discussion took place regarding other options such as a Special Permit
or a Planned Unit Development. Discussion also consisted of possibly tabling
this item. Mr. Mostaghasi preferred that it not be tabled.
A motion was made by Commissioner Dibble to approve item “10”. The motion
was seconded by Commission York. A roll call vote took place with
Commissioners Hovda, Zarghouni, Miller, Williams and Vice Chairman Baugh
voting “no”. The motion did not pass.
A motion was made by Commissioner Miller to deny item “10” and it was
seconded by Vice Chairman Baugh. A roll call vote took place with
Commissioners Dibble, York, Schroeder and Chairman Crull voting “no”. The
motion passed.
Public Hearing: (Item C) - Discussion and Possible ActionVI.
New ZoningC.
11.19-1510 Public Hearing - Rezoning Property at or near 3001 Morgan
Avenue
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Case No. 1019-07 - AGCE Corp: Ordinance rezoning property at or
near 3001 Morgan Avenue (located along the south side of Morgan
Avenue, east of Elgin Street, and west of South Port Avenue) from the
“IL/H” Light Industrial District with the Historic Overlay to the “IL” Light
Industrial District.
Mr. Dimas read item “10” into the record as shown above. The applicant is
requesting a rezoning from the “IL/H” Light Industrial District with the Historic
Overlay to the “IL” Light Industrial District to allow for the renovation of the
former Dr. Hector P. Garcia physician’s office building. For location purposes,
he presented several aerial views of the subject property along with the
Existing and Future Land Use maps. Mr. Dimas also presented some
exterior/interior pictures of the subject building detailing the amount of
damage that has occurred over time. Development Services staff visited the
building on Friday, October 18th. The most notable structural danger is the
partial collapse of the roof over the front portion of the building (former
pharmacy). The exterior walls are in good condition, as well as the concrete
roof that covers the rear half of the building. The storefront windows are in a
deteriorated condition.
As previously presented to the Landmark and Planning Commission, City staff
initiated a text amendment to the Unified Development Code (UDC) to allow
interior renovations to occur on a property with a historic designation without
the need of a Certificate of Appropriateness (C of A). The text amendment was
approved by the City Council in early October of this year. An alternative to
removing the (-H) Historic Overlay, would be a granting of a (C of A) to allow
for the restoration and renovation of the building. In this case, the structure
was not designated as historic due to architectural significance, but rather due
to cultural significance. Therefore, staff contends that the Landmark
Commission has the ability to grant a C of A to allow for the necessary repairs
and potential improvements without jeopardizing the historic significance of
the building. The Landmark Commission would need the application and
review construction plans to consider the C of A. Nina Nixon-Mendez, Historic
Preservation Office, gave more information on C of A process. If for any reason
the Landmark Commission denied the issuance of a C of A there is a process of
negotiation (90 days) between the applicant, Landmark Commission and the
department’s Assistant City Manager. At the end of the 90-day period the C of A
must be issued. The Landmark Commission has expressed that they are willing
to work with the applicant even though plans have not been submitted.
Mr. Dimas informed the Commission that of the 34 public notices that were
mailed, zero notices was returned in opposition of the change of zoning
request and zero notices were returned in favor. Mr. Dimas went over the
history of zoning patterns and UDC requirements for the rezoning. An
additional alternative that should be considered includes the underlying base
zoning district. The “IL” Light Industrial District is inconsistent with the
adjacent uses. The underlying base zoning district should be changed to the
“CN-1” Neighborhood Commercial District which allows offices uses by-right
and would serve as a better transitional district between the residential uses
and the remaining light industrial properties. He also informed the Commission
that a letter was submitted (attached to the Staff report) by the national office
of the G.I. Forum supporting the removal of the historic overlay. In support of
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Staff’s recommendation, letters were submitted by Dr. Garcia’s family and the
manager of the archives at Texas A&M University. Based on Staff analysis,
Staff and the Landmark Commission recommends denial of the change of
zoning request.
After Staff’s presentation, Chairman Crull opened the floor for Commissioner
comments/questions. Commissioner Hovda asked questions about the
background history of how the historic overlay process was accomplished for
the subject property. Staff confirmed that there was no record of protest by the
American G.I. Forum at the time of designation. She contended that when the
subject property was sold, the realtor did not disclose the historic overlay to
the buyer, and that the applicant is asking the City to rectify a problem that
originated with the realtor not doing their job.
After Commissioner comment/questions concluded, Chairman Crull opened the
public hearing. Representing the owner, Anthony Gutierrez from Austin, Texas,
addressed the Commission. He reiterated that at the time the property was
purchased, they were unaware of the historic overlay. He presented more
photographs showing the deteriorated condition of the building and expressed
how the previous owner made no efforts to minimally preserve the building.
He also showed a rendering of the exterior of the building and explained how
they plan to include a courtyard with a memorial to Dr. Garcia. The interior of
the building will be used for office space conducting minor medical care or to
be leased as construction offices. He added that they are willing to work to get
a C of A issued in order to move the project forward. With no one else coming
forward, the closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Miller asked what obstacles the applicant was experiencing due
to the overlay. Mr. Gutierrez responded none currently, but he may want to
change the color to earth tones. He stated they do not want to move forward
until the overlay is removed and has not submitted construction plans.
Commissioner Schroeder encouraged the applicant to work within the historic
framework. A motion was made by Commissioner Miller to deny the change of
zoning request for item “11”. Commissioner Hovda seconded and the motion
passed.
Director's ReportVII.
None.
Items to be ScheduledVIII.
None.
AdjournmentIX.
There being no further business to discuss, Chairman Crull adjourned the
meeting at 9:00 p.m.
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