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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 09/30/1968 - SpecialMINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING September 30, 1968 2:00 P. M. PRESENT: Mayor Jack R. Blackmon Mayor Pro Tem Ronnie Sizemore Commissioners: Dick Bradley, Jr. *Dr. P. Jimenez, Jr. Gabe Lozano, Sr. Ken McDaniel W. J. Roberts MICROFILMED JAN 23 1969 City Manager R. Marvin Townsend City Attorney I. M. Singer City Secretary T. Ray Kring Mayor Jack R. Blackmon called the meeting to order and stated the purpose of the meeting was to hold public hearings on six zoning applications, and explained the procedure to be fol lowed. Mayor Blackmon stated that all members of the Council were present. Mayor Blackmon announced the public hearing on Application #968-1, Ray E. Peterson, for change of zoning from "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District to "B-4" General Business District, on Lot 1, Block 1, Unit 1, and Lot 1, Block 8, Unit 2, Meadowlane, Units 1 and 2. Senior City Planner Larry Wanger presented the application; pointed out the location on the zoning and land use map, and described the zoning classifications in the surrounding area. He explained that most of the immediate area behind the property is in single-family use with a few exceptions on South Padre Island Drive. He stated that at the Commission hearing held September 3, 1968, Mr. Ray Peterson, President of Peterson Development Company, presented a proposed development plan of the retail shopping center at this location. There will be a strip -type center including drug store, laundry, service station, and drive-in grocery. Mr. Wenger stated that the Staff had mailed 28 notices prior to the Commission hearing; two were received in favor, four in opposition, and two were received at the hearing in opposition. The recommendation of the Planning Commission is that the application be approved as requested; the Staff recommends that this application be denied, but in lieu thereof "B-1" be granted. Minutes Special Council Meeting September 30, 1968 Page 2 Mr. Ray Peterson appeared before the Council with aerial pictures of the area. He stated that this shopping center is meant to be a buffer zone between the residential area and South Padre Island Drive. He also stated that there would be a 1270' fence along the back of the property; that they are selective as to tenants in this center; that some of the businesses are already located in other shopping centers and would have a chance of expanding to a second or third store; would encourage other developers to develop in the area; and he feels it is the best use of the land. Mr. Peterson stated that this shopping center would be an asset to the City and also one of which his company could be proud. In order to be successful in this shopping center, he said that proper signing would be needed as it is on a busy thoroughfare. He presented a letter from Texaco for a service station on the comer, and also a letter from the Dairy Queen Corporation. He showed a layout of the site with businesses and parking area. Mr. Odell Ingle, Realtor for the center, stated that he was working with the prospective tenants and did need the higher zoning. He stated that an inquiry about a bowling alley had also been made, which would require B-4 zoning. No, one appeared for or against the application. Motion by Bradley, seconded and passed, that the hearing be closed. Motion by McDaniel that the application be tabled. Motion died for lack of a second. Motion by Bradley, seconded by Roberts and passed, with Sizemore abstaining, that the recommendation of the Planning Commission be concurred in and that Application #968-1, Ray E. Peterson, for change of zoning from "R-16" One -family Dwelling District to "B-4" General Business District, on Lot 1, Block 1, Unit 1, and Lot 1, Block 8, Unit 2, Meadowlane, Units 1 and 2, be approved as requested and that an ordinance be brought forward effectuating the change. Mayor Blackmon announced the public hearing on Application #968-2, Modern Home Supply Co., Inc., for change of zoning from "A-2" Apartment House District to "1-2" Light Industrial District, on that portion of Lot A, which is zoned "A-2", Bryon Willis Subdivision. u Minutes Special Council Meeting September 30, 1968 Page 3 Senior City Planner Larry Wenger located the property on the zoning and land use map and pointed out the zoning classifications of the general area; which is mostly residential, one -family, with little business zoning, except on South Padre Island Drive; stated that at the Commission hearing held on September 3, 1968, Mr. Jack Moran, Manager of Modem Home Supply Co., Inc., introduced Mr. Jack K. Pedigo, Attorney for Modem Home Supply Company. Mr. Pedigo presented an aerial photograph of the area and stated that they propose to construct three covered and enclosed lumber storage facilities. Prior to the Commission hearing the Staff mailed 37 notices, none received in favor, 12 in opposition and four people were in opposition at the hearing. Four letters were received in favor prior to the Council hearing. The recommendation of the Planning Commission was that the application be denied, but in lieu thereof, a Special Permit be granted for covered storage facilities for lumber and building supplies according to a site plan approved by the Planning Staff; the Staff concurred in this recommendation. Jack Pedigo, Attorney representing the applicant, appeared before the Council and gave some of the back ground of this property, stating that it was formerly the old Terrace Lumber Company. He stated that there is litigation pending on this property in Judge Smith's Court, but it had been suggested that the applicant and the City try to work out some zoning for the property. He showed a site plan which Larry Wenger stated needed some alterations; and stated that it would not be practical to use this property for apartment housing as it is now zoned. Mr. Moran stated that he had talked with some of the neighbors on French who were for the change, but some on Kathy Street were not. Most of the people would rather have lumber storage than apartment housing. He stated that the customers would be limited to the front part of the property and the rear used only for storage. Also he said that proper fencing would be erected, that some of the residents have back fences, but would make sure that fencing was there. *Dr. Jimenez departed the meeting at this time. j Minutes Special Council Meeting September 30, 1968 Page 4 Mr. W. H. Bush, 4938 French, opposing stated that the lumber storage would be a fire hazard in this residential district, and would also probably raise taxes. Mayor Blackmon stated that if improvements were made to the lumber supply, the business taxes would rise, but not the residential area. He also stated that the tract legally faces South Padre Island Drive as it is part of the fronting tract. Motion by Bradley, seconded by Sizemore and passed, that the hearing be closed. Motion by McDaniel, seconded by Bradley and passed that the recommendation of the Planning Commission be concurred in and that Application #968-2, Modem Home Supply Co., Inc., for change of zoning from "A-2" Apartment House District to "1-2" Light Industrial District, on that portion of Lot A, which is zoned "A-2", Bryon Willis Subdivision, be denied, but in lieu thereof a Special Permit be granted for covered storage facilities for lumber and building supplies according to a site plan approved by the Planning Staff, and that an ordinance be brought forward effectuating the change. Mayor Blackmon announced the public hearing on Application 0.968-3, Mr. John W. Crutchfield, for change of zoning from "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District to "R-2" Two-family Dwelling District, on 11 acres, more or less, out of the Southeast comer of Lot 5, Oso Farm Tracts, located North of Holly Rood in Stonegate South 01. Senior City Planner Larry Wenger located the property on the zoning and land use map and pointed out the zoning classifications of the general area, which is principally residential with some business zoning. He stated that at the Commission hearing held on September 3, 1968, Mr. Phillip Albright,Realtor representing the Applicant, stated that the construction of a 93 -unit townhouse project was proposed under FHA and VA approval; explaining that these were not rental units, but actual homes similar to single-family residences which would be sold to the occupants. Mr. Wenger reported that the Staff mailed 29 notices prior to the Commission hearing, none received in favor and three in opposition. The recommendation of the Planning Commission is that the application be denied, but in lieu thereof a Special Permit be granted for townhouses according to a site plan approved by the Planning Staff; the Staff concurred. Minutes Special Council Meeting September 30, 1968 Page 5 City Manager Townsend read a letter from Mr. A. A. Lichtenstein favoring the zoning. Mr. Phillip Albright, Realtor, appeared before the Council, representing the applicant and exhibited a proposed plan of development. He restated what had been said at the Commission hearing and also stated that these townhouses would be in the price range of the neighboring subdivision; that they will be similar to the Carriage Park Townhouses in Pharaoh Valley. Garages will be at the very rear of the area as these will be solid row houses. There will be a 20' service drive and paving of Wedgewood Drive would also be included. Mr. Albright gave the Council a pamphlet describing a similar project in Houston. He stated that there would be a solid wall between Holly Road and the garages; a Common Maintenance Fund would cover each townhouse and the entire project area for upkeep and maintenance. The site plan for the project has not been approved. Motion by Sizemore, seconded by Roberts and passed, that the hearing be closed. Motion by Bradley, seconded by McDaniel and passed that the foregoing appli- cation be tabled for further consideration. Mayor Blackmon announced the public hearing on Application #968-4, Prescott Christian Church, for change of zoning from "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District to "AB" Professional Office District, on Lots 13 through 19, Block 5, Tracy Addition. Senior City Planner Larry Wenger located the property on the zoning and land use map and pointed out the zoning classifications of the general area; which is primarily residential, with some business zoning on Baldwin. He stated that at the Commission hearing held on September 3, 1968, Mr. Forrest Allen, Realtor representing Prescott Christian Church, stated that the existing buildings would be converted into a funeral home operation by the prospective clients. Prior to the Commission hearing, the Staff mailed 26 notices, none received in favor, five in opposition, and three were received at the hearing in opposition. Seven appeared at the hearing in opposition. The recommendation of the Planning Commission and the Staff is that the application be approved as requested. Minutes Special Council Meeting September 30, 1968 Page 6 City Manager Townsend questioned the one-way traffic pattern on the access road from the Expressway. Mr. Allen, appearing before the Council, representing the applicant, presented a map suggesting a traffic pattem that could be used to the cemeteries of the City. These routes do not use any of the neighborhood streets, but use the expressway. He stated that the applicants are not from a local funeral home changing location, but people from out of town wanting to start a new business. Mr. Allen also stated that about 42 people in the neighborhood have been contacted and have signed petitions for the zoning change. Six of these families are directly behind or adjacent to the property. He hopes that this new venture will take care of the unsightly area which is presently an eyesore in the community. 20,000 squarefeet of off-street parking area will be provided which will take care of approximately 150 cars. No new buildings will be built, but existing ones will be remodeled. The site will be improved by landscaping, which will be an attractive addition to the neighborhood. Reverend Roy Brewton, Minister of the Central Christian Church, spoke in behalf of the applicant. He stated that his church formerly occupied this site, but had moved to another location and were endeavoring to dispose of the property, and at the same time, improve the property. He stated that the property had become undesirable and inadequate for a church site because of the Expressway route resulting in most of his congregation having to move. Mr. Phillip Gray, a member of, the church, stated that he had called on some of the people in the neighborhood and that many were concerned about emergency vehicles in the vicinity at all hours of the day and night. He stated they had tried to encourage another church to take over the building, but without success. Mr. Jacob Homer, 2422 Riggan; C. C. Barnard, 2625 Elizabeth; John Harmon, who helped build this church; and Bob Courier, speaking for his parents on Riggan Street; all spoke in favor of the request. Minutes Special Council Meeting September 30, 1968 Page 7 Mr. Leo G. Guszak, 2430 Prescott, stated that the traffic congestion would be a problem as funeral processions must come by his home on the Expressway; also that cars will not stay in the parking area provided. Mr. Edgar T. Mulhollan, who owns the property at 2446 Prescott, stated that when he lived on his property, the people of the church were always using his driveway for parking their care. Mr. Antonio Espinosa and his mother, of 2617 Riggan, do not want any spot zoning in this area. They have worked too hard to build up their neighborhood and do not want to change it. Mr. C. C. Cosgrove, who formerly owned the property now owned by the Espinosas, stated he had lived in this area for many years. He presented the petitions signed by the neighbors opposing the zoning change. He believes the noise of the funeral home could not be kept quiet enough; no privacy even with a fence; and that it would be difficult to get people to live in the area; use the church as a church. Mr. William Manning, 2434 Prescott; Mrs. Bernice Schiller, 2442 Prescott; and Mrs. Mulhollan, opposed the change. Mr. Allen stated that the renter on Mr. Mulhollan's property did not seem concerned about the zoning change; that the biggest problem is the parking for the church, which will not be provided by off the street space. He also stated that the long classroom -type building along the back of the property will possibly be used for casket display and would serve as a buffer to the residences. Mrs. Schiller questioned as to whether or not emergency ambulances would operate from this funeral home. She was advised by Mayor Blackmon that they would not. Motion by Roberts, seconded by Bradley and passed, that the hearing be closed. Motion by Sizemore, seconded by Lozano and passed, that the foregoing application be tabled for further consideration. Mayor Blackmon announced the public hearing on Application #968-5, Jim Brace Company, for change of zoning from "B-1" Neighborhood Business District to "B-4" General Business District, on the South half of Lot D-1, Habluetzel Addition. Minutes Special Council Meeting September 30, 1968 Page 8 Senior City Planner Larry Wenger located the property on the zoning and land use map and pointed out the zoning classifications of the general area as being residential, 3-1, and B-5; stated that at the Commission hearing held on September 3, 1968, Mr. Jim Brace, applicant, stated that "B-4" zoning was requested in order to erect a 100 -square foot sign advertising his existing tire distributor operation. The Staff mailed 16 notices, two received in favor, none in opposition, and four appeared in opposition at the hearing. The recommendation of the Staff is to deny the application; and the Planning Commission recommendation is that it be approved as requested. Mr. Jim Brace appeared before the Council and stated that his request is very simple. He needs the "3-4" zoning because of the larger sign, which is very important in his very competitive business. He stated the sign is made by U. S. Royal, is nothing elaborate, but that the present signing is inadequate. No one appeared for or against the application. Motion by Bradley, seconded by Roberts and passed, that the hearing be closed. Motion by Bradley, seconded by Roberts and passed, McDaniel voting "Nay", that the recommendation of the Planning Commission be concurred in and that Application #968-5, Jim Brace Company, for change of zoning from "B-1" Neighborhood Business District to "8-4" General Business District, on the South half of Lot D-1, Habluetzel Addition, be approved as requested and that an ordinance be brought forward effectuating the change. Mayor Blackmon announced the public hearing on Application #968-6, Corpus Christi Area Teachers' Credit Union for change of zoning from "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District to "AB" Professional Office District, on Lot 2, Dellwood Addition, Unit 3. Senior City Planner Larry Wenger located the property on the zoning and land use map and described the zoning of the surrounding area, which is residential except for the existing "AB" on the other half of the property. He stated that at the Commission hearing held on September 3, 1968, Mr. 0, G. Roots, Architect representing the Corpus Christi Area Teachers' Credit Union, stated that the Union proposed to expand the present Minutes Special Council Meeting September 30, 1968 Page 9 building by adding 4,000 square feet of space, with additional parking, and presented a site plan of the proposed development. The Staff mailed 25 notices, two received in favor, five in opposition, five appeared in opposition at the Commission hearing. It is the recommendation of the Staff and the Planning Commission that the application be approved as requested. Mr. Roots, representing the applicant, appeared before the Council, with pictures, both aerial and snapshot. He stated that the present building contains 2,000 square feet of floor space and the new one will be adding 4,000 square feet, and will appear as one building when finished. A site plan was exhibited and it was stated that they hope to keep most of the trees on the property. Mr. Ted Boaz, Chairman of the Building Committee of Teachers' Credit Union, stated he has talked with Mr. Charles McLeroy, City Traffic Engineer, concerning the parking lot entrances, and proposing a sidewalk for Carta Street. Mr. Roots stated that he has not been invited by the Casa Linda Elementary School to discuss this plan. Mr. Boaz stated that a study had been made about five years ago for locating the Teachers' Credit Union, not realizing how fast they would outgrow the building. He stated that they have worked with the City Staff in reference to traffic conditions. They are trying to improve rather than create traffic problems. Mr. B. L. Ditto, stated that the Teachers' Credit Union has helped many newcomers in the teaching profession by loans to help them move to the City. He also asked "Is the Request in the Public Interest?" and stated "It is". Mrs. Richard Glenn, 1554 Casa de Oro, spoke against the zoning change because of the school. She has a small son in the Safety Patrol, and has difficulty enough in helping the children crossing the streets without adding more traffic congestion. The school has been trying to get sidewalks for two years without success. She feels that the Credit Union is interested in bringing in income only. Minutes Special Council Meeting September 30, 1968 Page 10 Mr. Boaz stated that they want to plan for future expansion; but as they may not need all this space at one time, they may lease part of the building for one or two years. Mr. Lewis Lovelace, 1549 Casa Grande, questioned if a Special Permit would serve the Credit Union purpose. He was advised by Mayor Blackmon that as the present zoning for the building is already "AB" there was no reason to change the application. Mrs. Douglas Middleton, 1553 Casa Grande, presented a map indicating the residences of the school children in the Casa Linda School area, and a traffic pattern around the school. She stated that the parking space now available for the Union office is not used, doubts that the land is as valuable as the Union states. As for beautification, she stated that the lot has only been cleaned when the application hearings were coming up. She presented a letter from the Casa Linda PTA, and petitions against the application. Mrs. Middleton stated that the Weeks family, 1645 Casa de Oro, had not received a notice of the hearing, and that this time of day was difficult for some to attend. Mrs. D. S. Cobbs, 3214 Olsen, opposed the sidewalk as it would be on the back of her property, and does not want parking in front of her house. Mr. Lovelace stated that he was in opposition at the original hearing five years ago but that the Credit Union had promised to be good neighbors and keep the lot cleaned; yet this has not been done. He stated that he opposed the opening on Corta Street, but possibly a fence could be put up to keep the children from cutting across the lot too. He asked why Kostoryz Street could not be used for an entrance.. Mr. Boaz stated that he had no opposition to Kostoryz Street being used, but had taken the advice of the City Staff. A letter was read from the Casa Linda PTA and a petition signed by nine residents of the area objecting to the application. Motion by Bradley, seconded by Sizemore and passed, that the hearing be closed. Motion by Bradley, seconded by Roberts and passed, that the foregoing application be tabled for further consideration. There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned. I, JACK R. BLACKMON, Mayor of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas, certify that the foregoing minutes, same being for the peria4of September 1, 1968, through September 30, 19 , inclusive, arX1 having been previou,yly approved by Council action, are by me hereby approved. K R. BLACKMON, Mayor ity of Corpus Christi, Texas