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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.