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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1969-12-16 Minutes tir Regular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission December 16, 1969 CALL TO ORDER The regular meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission was called to order at 8:15 P. M. in the Council Chambers of Euless City Hall , with Vice Chairman Jack Browne presiding. Other Members present are listed, as follows: Messers. Richard Leggett and Bill Tench. (Absent: Chairman Leonard Weber, Messers. Harry Arth, Jack Cline and E. E. Kepiinger.) Also present were City Inspector Jack Bullard and Recording Secretary Florence Murr. VISITORS Visitors in attendance are listed, as follows: Messers. Kenneth M. Good, Mike Allen, Guy Wigington, Ivan Gregory, Hugh M. Waite, Robert Power and Ralph Kelman. I . APPROVAL OF MINUTES Mr. Leggett moved to approve minutes of the Regular Meeting dated November 18, 1969, as written. Mr. Tench seconded the motion, and the vote is as follows: Ayes: Messers. Leggett, Tench and Browne Nays: None Vice Chairman Browne declared the motion carried. II . CLARIFICATION OF NUMBER CONSTITUTING A QUORUM Vice Chairman Browne stated that he would like to have someone clarify the requirements for a quorum, to be certain that business transacted in this meeting is official . Mrs. Murr read, from the Euless City Charter as amended on February 18, 1969, that three members constitutes a quorum. kwIII . APPROVAL OF LAYOUT FOR INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE ADDITION, PLANNED DEVELOPMENT, KENNETH M . GOOD AND ASSOCIATES. DEVELOPERS Vice Chairman Browne recognized Mr. (Fly° 7:wo Minutes of Re ular Meson Plan;nin and Zonir3 ComsT:ision, December 16, 1969. — tow Robert H. Power, 201 Southwest Bank Building, d ry i rnq, Texas, who stated that he is an attorney, representing a client, Ken riood and Associates, who are owners and proposed Developers of international Village Addition. Mr. Power reminded Members of the Commission that the Planning and Zoning Commission previously recommended denial of a request for rezoning the subject property because of a conflict with the Master Plan -- that Members of the Commissions were of the opinion they should not approve soe-eth i ng that would be in conflict, and if it were done, it should be done by the Council . Mr. Power stated further that this Zoning Case was presented to the Euless City Counc i l , which took it under advisement -- that since that time his clients have met with representetives of the City and the City's Land Planner, and the eu_gestion was made that tHs matter might best be resolved by developing the property into a Planned Develop- ment area. Mr. Power advised that his clients have proceeded with this pi,?n, and it was suggested that their proposal should be re-scheduled before the Planning and Zoning Commission prior to presentation to the Euless City Council . Mr. Power presented an aerial photo of the area indicating a portion of Dallas-Fort Worth Regional Airport Site, an industrial area to the East, the subject Planned Development, for which apartments is proposed, and surrounding area. Mr. Power commented that the Airport will bring a great need for residential development, and the Cities of Euless, Irving and other surrounding cities need to try to provide residential development of a dense nature, keeping the residents from traveling over our Cities, crowding the thoroughfares -- that, in his opinion, placing them in the proposed area would be compatible with the future growth of Euless. Mr. Power presented a Land Use Plan, stating that the school site indicated is a proposal from the Developer rather than the School District -- that the Developers are of the opinion it would be a good school site, and there have been conversations with the School Officials; however, nothing is planned at this time. Mr. Power advised that he suggested to the Developers that this tract would be an ideal park site; however, if the school site does not develop that area has not been included as a part of this zoning case. Mr. Power stated that the developers visualize Midway as a four lane thoroughfare for which adequate right-of-way is being provided. Mr. Power pointed out that low density apartments (twelve units per acre) are proposed for the southern portion of the tract, which con- sists of approximately twenty-five (25) acres, with density increasing slightly in the area to the East. Mr. Power commented that the proposed development plan actually is for four-plex structures, each with its own greenbelt area -- that he and the Developers consider the plan to be compatible and the proper use for this property -- that there is a need for it, and the proposed develop- ment will be an asset to the City. Mr. Power introduced Mr. Ralph Kelman, representing the firm Ralph Kelman and Associates, Architects and Planners, 3606 Hall , Dallas, Texas. (Page Three Minute of Regular Meetings Planning and Zoning Commission, December i6, 1969. ) thir Mr. Kelman commented that the drainage area running East and West (Blessing Branch) , which divides the tract, will be developed into a natural greenbelt, recreational area, with pedestrianways connecting the development. Mr. Kelman pointed out that many of the units are designed primarily as four-plex units, stating that they are primarily single story structures, but two story structures are proposed for the area to the extreme East, near the industrial area. Mr. Kelman commented that the only traffic feeding from the complex itself would be from the center section. Vice Chairman Browne stated that a letter was received from the City's Consulting Engineers, in which they commented that no North-South traffic was provided for a distance of one-half (2) mile. Mr. Browne interpreted this to mean that there was no outlet from Midway Drive to Harwood Road, (Copy of Engineers' letter on file with Official Copy of Minutes. ) Mr. Kelman stated that their intention was to keep traffic at a minimum. Mr. Power stated that he is associated with development of the proposed industrial area located East of Mr. Good's property -- that a street extending North to Harwood Road is proposed for that development. Mr. Good stated that the proposed street in the eastern portion of his tract extends into Hugh Waite's development on the South, and they are of the opinion it would be better to route the traffic East on Midway to the proposed street in the industrial area and North to Harwood Road. Mr Waite inquired concerning the distance of the proposed street which will extend into his subdivision from Mr. Good's East property line. Mr. Good advised that it is approximately two hundred fifty (250) feet from his Eastern property line. Mr. Tench stated that apparently there is a triangle within this complex -- Ken Good and Associates, Hugh Waite and the developers of the industrial area. Mr. Tench asked if documentary evidence can be provided to assure compliance with the Engineers' recommendations. Mr. Power stated that it is their assumption that the street to the East is required by the City -- that it is shown on the plan for development which was approved by the City Council , and it never occurred to him that development of the property would be approved without it. Mr. Power advised that the tract located adjacent to the industrial area on the West which is presently zoned for apart- ments was recently purchased by Mr. Good, and the streets in Mr. Good's develop- ment will be extended to the proposed thoroughfare in the industrial area. (Page Fours Minutes of Regular Meeting, Plannin% and Zoning Commission, December 16, 196 . ) 4110. Vice Chairman Browne asked if the Developer would be totally opposed to stubbing one of the streets to the North. Mr. Power advised that the Developers were trying to control all of the area to the North, providing adequate circulation with streets which meet City requirements but are not dedicated. In reply to a question concerning the lack of plans for the North portion of tract, Mr. Power stated that the Developers were instructed to show plans for what is proposed along the residential area on the South, which is what they have done, with the total complex not exceed- ing a density of nineteen (19) units per acre and the area to the South not exceeding twelve (12) units per acre. Vice Chairman Browne asked what is proposed for the triangular tract, should it not materialize as a school site. Mr. Good stated that he proposes duplexes along Midway Drive, and the remainder of the tract will be single family residences. Vice Chairman Browne stated that a Planned Development is a comprehensive plan which is binding; however, what he has heard tonight is for "R-3" zoning instead of a Planned Development. Mr. Power stated that is is hard for the Developer to say a school will be located on the site when School Officials have not indicated their intentions. Mr. Kelman reminded Members of the Commission that the proposed school site is not included in the request which is being considered at this time. The City Inspector advised that the Developer would not be restricted to this plan for development under "R-3" zoning. Mr. Good stated that it would be impossible, at this time, to state exactly how the buildings will be laid out on the entire tract. Mr. Good reminded Members of the Commission that this is an eight or nine year project. Vice Chairman Browne stated that plans cannot be revised to include a service station or shopping center under this Planned Development. Mr. Power advised that he and the Developer are aware of that and recognize that in the zoning case there is a commitment and that is it. two (Page Five, Minutes of Regular Meeting, Planning and Zoning Commission, December 16, 1969.) In reply to a question from Mr. Hugh Waite, Mr. Good advised that construction will be started on the project as soon as the new sewer line is installed which, possibly, will be next summer but may be later. Mr. Good stated that the sewer line will be extended up the creek on the North side of his Planned Development. Mr. Waite asked if the City will require the Developer to extend the sewer system to Newport Way to tie it in. Mr. Bullard replied that this would be required although that tract is not a part of the Planned Development. Mr. Waite asked if the same applies to the underground storm sewer system which is stubbed out. Mr. Bullard stated that facilities will have to be extended across this property to take care of the drainage -- that he can't say whether or not it will go into the ditch -- that this will depend on the engineering. Mr. Waite inquired concerning the atti- tude of the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council toward changes in the layout of a Planned Development. Vice Chairman Browne replied that the Planned Development which has been presented this evening is the first to be considered under the new Zoning Ordinance, and in his opinion, it will be used as a guideline for subsequent Planned Developments. Mr. Browne advised that he would expect the City to adhere with it closely. Mr. Ivan Gregory, Member of the Parks and Recreation Committee, stated that, in his opinion, the proposed school and/or park site offer is a generous one, particularly if the Developers decide to make this a donation to the City for a park area. Mr. Gregory stated that he, personally, would like to see this -- that it would be a good site for a school also. Mr. Gregory commented further that the area North of the creek would also be a good park site -- that the area along the creek through Midway Park has made a nice park area. Vice Chairman Browne asked if the De- velopers are prepared to make a statement concerning the Park or School Site, or to enter into agreement. Mr. Power replied that the proposed school site has been discussed with School Officials -- that the comment about the tract's use as a park site was his own -- that he does not think the Developers could give the site to the City, considering the premium price of the land -- that he is of the opinion Mr. Good's comments, concern- ing use of the land if the school does not materialize, are more feasible. (Page Six. Minutes of Regular Meeting, Planning and Zoning Commission, December 16, 1969.) A lengthy discussion concerning density followed, and it was determined that approximately twelve (12) units per acre are proposed for the South portion of the tract (South of Blessing Branch) . Mr. Good commented that with rights of way, easements and proposed areas for driveways deleted from over-all acre- age North of Blessing Branch, he and his associates are of the opinion twenty-two (22) units per acre is not excessive density -- that lots of liv- ing space will be left for the occupants. Mr. Leggett inquired concerning provi- sions for recreational facilities. Mr. Kelman again called attention to the park area which is proposed along the natural drainage area in the center of the tract and advised that swimming pools will be scattered throughout the complex area, and specific areas away from traffic will be designated as children's play areas. Mr. Kelman stated that creation of a residential environment is their goal . Mr. Power stated that, from experience with the City of Irving, he knows that they have never had a development as good as the one proposed by Mr. Good -- that they expect to have one soon with a density of approximately nineteen (19) units per acre, and he personal- ly is impressed with Mr. Good's plans. Vice Chairman Browne asked if topo or drainage surveys have been made. Mr. Power advised that this has been included in the plans. Mr. Tench moved to recommend approval of that portion of the layout presented for International Village Addition, a Planned Development located East of North Main Street at Midway Drive, with the following provisions: 1 . The portion South of Blessing Branch shall not exceed a density of 12.3 units per acre. 2. Provisions of the letter dated December 1 , 1969, from the City's Consult- ing Engineers shall be complied with. 3. The letter dated December 15, 1969, from Ken Good and Associates shall be included in this recommendation, with exception of density requirements for that portion of the tract located North of Blessing Branch, which shall be restricted to a maximum of twenty-two (22) units per acre. 4. Drainage and sewer connections shall be extended South -- the storm drainage to the existing storm sewer, and the sewer line to the exist- ing lift station located in Somerset Place No. 2 -- to the City's specifications. (Pa a Sevvenn3 Minutes of Re.ular Meetin• Plannin• and Zonin• Commission, Decem er Ib 1969. Mr. Leggett seconded the motion, and the vote is as follows: Ayes: Messers. Tench, Leggett and Browne Nays: None Vice Chairman Browne declared the motion carried. (Copy of letters from the City's Consulting Engineers and Mr. Ken Good are on file with Official Copy of these Minutes.) II . CONSIDERATION OF DENSITY REQUIREMENTS PER ACRE FOR MULTI-FAMILY DWELLING DISTRICTS At the suggestion of Vice Chairman Browne, and by general consent of Commission Members, the Planning and Zoning Commis- sion recommended that ordinances concerning apartments, mobile homes and all specific units be obtained from adjacent cities -- that the information con- tained therein be summarized and made available for consideration and study by Planning and Zoning Commission Members. It was recommended, further, that all Members of the Planning and Zoning Commission be present before any action on this matter is taken. III . DISCUSSION OF LAND PLANNING Mr. Leggett stated that, in his opinion, this Commission should make some type of study -- that he considers it has done lots of zoning, but not too much planning. He commented that he thinks the Commission should work with the Parks and Recreation Committee on park planning and also to formulate some type of plan for development of land near the airport. Mr. Gregory stated that the Parks and Recreation Committee would like to receive a copy of Planning and Zoning Minutes -- that they want to work closely with the Planning and Zoning Commis- sion, feeling that the Commission should be aware of what they propose. Vice Chairman Browne stated that the City has never approved the Master Plan -- that it is still doing spot zoning. Mr. Bullard advised that Mr. Robert Caldwell , the City's Land Planner, did not plan any zoning. Vice Chairman Browne stated that the City needs to get busy -- that, with the airport coming in, plans should be started now. Pa.e Ei •ht Minutes of Re•ular Meetin. Plannin. and Zonin. Commission, December 1 •, 1969. Mr. Gregory advised that the Parks and Recreation Committee is of the opinion it would be advisable for the Planning and Zoning Commission to make recommendations to them concerning the loca- tion of park sites --that the Planning and Zoning Commission has been function- ing longer and has had considerably more experience. Mr. Gregory stated that, in his opinion, provisions should be made for a park to accommodate tenants of the Planned Development which was discussed earlier this evening, otherwise, Midway Park is going to become congested. Mr. Gregory commented further that any donation of land for a park site is worthy of consideration. Mr. Leggett stated that he recommends the Planning and Zoning Commission work with the Parks and Recreation Committee -- also that it does some planning, especially in the area of the airport. Mr. Tench recommended that copies of the Planning and Zoning Commission minutes be forwarded to Members of the Parks and Recreation Committee, to keep them informed on actions and feelings of the Commission. Vice Chairman Browne stated that, in his opinion, before the Commission considers parks, it should concentrate on zon- ing -- that he thinks the Commission should hear comments from the City Manager. A brief discussion followed concerning availability of funds for purchase of park sites. Vice Chairman Browne recommended that the City Manager be invited to meet with the Planning and Zoning Commission at the meeting scheduled for the third Tuesday in January (January 20, 1970) to report on the current thinking concerning the area near the airport and to advise whether or not a comprehensive zoning plan can be considered for future planning for development of properties and park sites. Members of the Com- mission were in agreement and suggested that the City Manager may designate another date, if the suggested date conflicts with his plans. IV. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 9:45 P. M. APPROVED: ATTEST: Chairman Secretary fsm