HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 10/23/1967 - SpecialMINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
(Joint Meeting with Zoning & Planning Commission)
October 23, 1967
2:00 p. m.
PRESENT:
Mayor Jack R. Blackmon
Commissioners:
Dick Bradley, Jr.
Dr. P. Jimenez, Jr.
Gabe Lozano, Sr.
Ken McDaniel
City Manager Herbert W, Whitney
City Attorney I. M. Singer
City Secretary T. Ray Kritig
Mayor Jack R. Blackmon called the Special Meeting to order, and directed that it be noted
that a quorum was present, and stated that the purpose of the Special Joint Meeting with the Zoning
and Planning Commission was for the consideration of amendments to the Zoning Ordinance of the
City to include all the area within the City limits commonly known as Corpus Christi Beach, and
was set jointly in an effort to speed up the action of the Council for the solution of major zoning
problems in the upgrading in the rebuilding of Cdtpus Christi Beach. Mayor Blackmon relinquished
the Chair to Mr. Charles Jackson, Chairman of the Zoning and Planning Commission.
Mr. Jackson, directed that it be noted that a quorum of the Zoning and Planning Commission
was present, and asked Mr. Earl Goetsch, Senior City Planner of the Zoning and Planning Staff to
present the proposed amendments.
Mr. Goetsch located the areas in question on the map as being all of that area within the
City limits lying northward of the Ship Channel and eastward of a line extending from a point on
the Ship Channel down the centerline of the area formerly occupied by the Southern Pacific Rail-
road right of way to Breakwater Street, thence westward along Breakwater Street to the City limits
line and northward along the City limits line to Nueces Bay, and stated that the proposal is to change
the zoning districts now existing from "B -1A, "B-1", '°B-4", "B-5", and "1-3", so as to rezone
said area into "A-2", "AT", "B-1'°, "B-2", "B-4" and "1-2" districts as shown on a map of the
proposed zoning on file in the Office of the Planning Department. Mr. Goetsch described the
types of zoning and the uses allowed in the specific type of zoning, and stated that the plan is
essentially the plan developed by the Area Development Committee and submitted as the Harland
Bartholomew Plan, and is orientated for tourists and recreational areas, and is a guide for what
is felt could be accomplished for Corpus Christi Beach. Mr. Goetsch further explained that if the
City adopts the new zoning districts, existing buildings not permitted in the new districts would
Minutes
Special Council Meeting
October 23, 1967
Page 2
become non -conforming uses but could remain; that the main effect would be on new construction;
explained that the large area of the beach north of Sandy Shores Motel and east of Highway 181
would be zoned an apartment -tourist (AT) which would permit hotels, motels, motor courts, etc., but
requires larger lots and setbacks than the existing tourist court district; stated that the area south of
the Sandy Shores Motel would be zoned as a bayfront business district, and that the area west of
Highway 181 would be zoned for general business uses except for the southern end, which would be
zoned for industrial uses.
Mr. Bob Sorrell, attorney representing Mr. Lloyd Adams, owner of three lots located between
Golf Street and Kleberg Street, and his tenant, David Janecek, appeared and stated that this
property is located on the line of the proposed "13-2" and "AT" zoning; stated that his client is
interested in the aesthetic development of the Beach, but will need proper zoning in order to
accorr fish this and asked if the "B-2" zoning could be extended northward for one block which
would form a natural boundary line. Mr. Sorrell stated that Golf Street is a street in name only and
backs up to the Sandy Shores Motel; stated that this land has been used as a grocery store since 1912,
and that he does not feel that it is inconsistent with the motel uses; and further stated that he had
approximately 60 signatures of residents in this area who favor this extension of the "B-2" zoning.
Mr. Walter Chastain, attorney, appeared and stated he was speaking as a private citizen
and as co-owner with his mother of property at the corner of Timon and St. Charles, Lots 1 through
9, and Lot 11, and stated he was opposed to any change from the "8-1" classification for the
reason that the requirement for "AT" zoning specifies a minimum building area of 10,000 square
feet; that with front and side yard requirements as proposed, would reduce the lots; useless except
for single family dwelling units; stated that they would be non -conforming and could not rebuild
if the property were destroyed by hurricane or fire, and stated that this zoning and the building
requirements woyld make it impossible for the small individual land owner to rebuild, Mr. Chastain
stated he did not feel the Zoning and Planning Staff were giving a true picture of the requirements;
that he favored the requirement for more solid construction, but urged the Council not to change
the zoning.
Minutes
Special, Council Meeting
October 23, 1967
Page 3
Mr. Richard Hatch, attorney representing Mr. and Mrs. Jim Seltzer, owners of Paradise
Fishing Pier extending out into the Bay and which was destroyed by the hurricane, appeared and
stated that his clients were concerned as to whether or not the zoning change would preclude the
reconstruction of the pier; stated that he had been advised by the City Staff that permits are to be
issued on special request.
Mr. Goetsch stated that under this proposed "AT" District the only possible way to rebuild
would be to apply for a special permit which is provided for in the ordinance, and explained the
difference of building an accessory to a building or as a separate improvement.
Dr. M. L. Norvell, real estate operator, appeared and inquired as to what effect the "AT"
zoning would have on the sale of property if the useable space is reduced by setback lines and side
yard requirements; expressed belief that it would lower the demand for these lots; stated that the
person with a small place and a big mortgage would be damaged; and asked if a compromise could
not be worked out as to these requirements so as not to destroy the small operator.
Mr. Jackson stated that this proposed zoning change is only a first step for rehabilitation
of Corpus Christi Beach; that it is planned to fit into the Master Plan; stated that possibly some
streets will be closed which will give some relief; that if developed as planned it will be a real
tourist attraction which will be an asset to the City and increase the value of real estate.
Mr. Frisco Roberts, 807 South Carancahua, representative of Humble Oil & Refining Company,
commended the Staff and Council for time and effort expended in the proposed plan, but stated he
was interested in the property along Highway 0181 where the "B-1" zoning stops at St. Charles,
making the Humble Service Station a non -conforming use; that the improvements will deteriorate
and will eventually have to be rebuilt; stated that because of the design of the Expressway, there
is a definite need for a service station on this side of the Highway, and that they feel this property
should remain as presently zoned.
Mr. Henry Black, owner of the Plantation Pier, appeared and stated that he has a franchise
for the operation of a retail sales business on Shoreline and Sandbar; that he has preliminary plans
drawn to rebuild, and inquired as to how long he will be required to wait before he will be issued
a permit in order to proceed with making a loan for the building.
Minutes
Special Council Meeting
October 23, 1967
Page 4
Mr. Black was advised to consult with the Zoning and Planning Staff for advice and to make
application for a Special Council Permit just as soon as possible.
Mr. Ed Williams, attorney representing Ruby Rowden, a property owner stated that his client
does not oppose "AT" zoning of her property, but approved the overall plan for the improvement of
Corpus Christi Beach; stated that his client proposed to rebuild 10 units and comply fully with the
"AT" requirements. Mr. Williams suggested that the setback and side yard requirements in the "AT"
District be amended to make them more applicable to beach uses such as permitting detached accessory
buildings, restaurants, meeting rooms and ball rooms, and suggested that the plan should be modified
and made more liberal for incidental uses of a motel so as to be more accessible for public uses. Mr.
Williams further suggested that Section 10-2, Subsection 6, re signs, be changed to read exactly like
requirements for signs in the Bayfront Business District, eliminating from Section 10-2, the words
"providing such restaurants does not contain a combined total floor space of more than 50 square
feet per unit."
Mrs. Fred A. Miller, Route 1, Robstown, appeared and stated that she is the owner of two
small cottages in the "AT" zone, and stated that she felt the other owners had purchased their
property for business uses, and that restrictions should not be imposed on property owners of Corpus
Christi Beach; and further stated that the Zoning and Planning Commission is in a position to do far
more damage to the area than a dozen hurricanes and urged the Council to "let freedom reign".
Mr. Bill Wendell, owner of the Coronado Motel, commended the Council for the very
effective cleanup of Corpus Christi Beach following Hurricane Beulah; stated that he was not
opposed to anything the Council could do to improve Corpus Christi Beach; and that he felt it
could be the most beautiful beach and tourist attraction on the Coast. He stated that he has tried
for 12 years to sell his business but has not been able to do so, because the value is not there as
the beach now exists, and that in his opinion the value of property will not increase but will
deteriorate unless some regulations and requirements are established.
Mr. C. H. Cunningham, owner of property at 3612 Surfside appeared and stated that he
was opposed to the setback line restrictions of the "AT" zoning, stating that the big business man
could afford to have a 25 -foot setback line, but that the -small business man would be put out of
business.
Minutes
Special Council Meeting
October 23, 1967
Page 5
Mr. Cecil Proctor, 3815 North Shoreline, appeared and stated that he owned a brick duplex
in Block 9, located at the Spur of the railroad tract close to the water's edge, and asked if he would
be required to comply with the setback regulation as it would cut his building in half.
Mr. Jackson stated that no setback restrictions are involved at the present time, but explained
that if the zoning amendments are adopted any new building would have to conform to the zoning as
adopted, but stated special consideration will be given individual cases.
Mr. B. B. Royal, 2722 North Shoreline; Mrs. James Love, 201 South Surfside; Mr, W. H.
Stahl, 4901 Kostoryz; Mr. C. A. Mansheim, 330 Williamson; Captain Nathan Clark, 334 Bartlett;
a representative of Grande Courts, 3101 West Surfside; and Mr. Niel Perry, 209 South Surfside,
appeared seeking information relative to the projected plans for drainage; if the construction of a
seawall is contemplated; the length of time permits will be frozen; as to the precent of damage from
the hurricane required for rebuilding; if the City proposes to build a park; if property will be con-
demned; and if the beach will be elevated,
Captain Clark, owner of property along the Channel, inquired if the proposed "B-2" zoning
would permit boat (cargo) docks, and stated he is building a motel in this area and felt this would
lower the value of his property and would not be consistent with this use. Mr. Clark was advised
that the construction of boat docks would require "1-3" Heavy Industrial Zoning, but that a private
pier would be permitted.
No one else appeared in connection with the foregoing proposed amendments to the Zoning
Ordinance.
Mayor Blackmon explained that the proposed amendments as presented, are a step forward
for the projected plan for the improvements of Corpus Christi Beach, but can and probably will be
modified; stated that the purpose of this joint meeting with the Zoning and Planning Commission is
to expedite this plan; stated that this meeting will be recessed until 5:00 p.m. during which time
the Zoning and Planning Commission will remain in session for the purpose of making a recommenda-
tion to submit to the Council to form a basis on which to base their decision.
Mayor Blackmon reconvened the meeting at 5:00 p.m., stated it was the recommendation
of the Zoning and Planning Commission:
Minutes
Special Council Meeting
October 23, 1967
Page 6
(1) That the 93-2" Bayfront Business District zoning as proposed be recommended for approval
except that strong consideration be given to extend the "B-2" area one block North (which would
necessitate one or more public hearings on the subject area) to make Kleberg the boundary street, being
Block I, Lots 85, through 102, Corpus Christi Beach Hotel Addition on the basis that it would conform
with the off -ramp street from the Harbor Bridge;
(2) That the "A-2" Apartment House District and" I-2" Light Industrial District zoning as
proposed on the map be recommended for approval;
(3) That the "13-1" Neighborhood Business District and "B-4" General Business District zoning
as proposed on the map, be recommended for approval;
(4) That the "AT" Apartment -Tourist District zoning as proposed on the map be recommended
for approval except that it is recommended that strong consideration be given to extend "B-1"
Neighborhood Business District along the entire area fronting on the East side of Interstate #181 for
the depth of one lot from St, Charles Street North to the Causeway (which would necessitate one or
more public hearings on the subject area) on the basis that this would be a logical extension of
business zoning since Blocks 74, 75, 78 and 79, Brooklyn Addition are already zoned "B-1". It
was the Commission's opinion that this area along the Frontage Road should be business;.
Motion by Bradley, seconded by Lozano and passed that the hearing be closed.
Motion by McDaniel, seconded by Bradley and passed that the decision of the Council for
the adoption of amendments to the Zoning Ordinance as proposed by the Zoning and Planning
Staff and as recommended by the Zoning and Planning Commission, be tabled for further consideration.
There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned.