HomeMy WebLinkAbout02 06 79 PC MinutesFebruary 6, 1979
The Albemarle County Planning Commission held a regular meeting, February 6, 1979,
7:30 p.m., Third Floor, County Office Building, Charlottesville, Virginia. Those members
present were Mr. Charles Vest; Mr. Layton McCann; Dr. James Moore; Col. William Washington,
Chairman; Mr. Jim Skove; Mrs. Joan Graves; Mrs. Norma Diehl, Vice -Chairman; Mr. James
Huffman; and Mr. Tim Lindstrom, Ex-Officio. Mr. Kurt Gloeckner was absent. Other Officals
present were Mr. Ronald Keeler, Assistant Director of Planning; Miss Mason Caperton,
Planner; Mr. Robert Tucker, Director of Planning; Mr. George St. John, County Attorney; and
Mr. Fred Payne, Deputy County Attorney.
Col. Washington established that a quorum was present and called the meeting to order
at 7:30 p.m.
The minutes of December 19, 1978 and January 22, 1979 were deferred. The minutes
of January 29, 1979 and January 31, 1979 were approved as written.
WOOD PROPERTY PRELIMINARY PLAT - proposed division of 4.9 acres into 2 lots at
2.0 and 2.9 acres; located east off Route 663 approximately one-half mile north of
Earlysville.
Mr. Tucker noted that the applicant was requesting deferral for an indefinite
period of time.
Mr. Vest moved for deferral.
Mrs. Diehl seconded the motion, which carried unanimously, with no further discussion.
PINERIDGE PRELIMINARY PLAT - proposed division of 99+ acres into 21 lots with an
average lot size of 4.7 acres; located west off Route 785 and north of Route 649.
RIVERSIDE PRELIMINARY PLAT - proposed division of 73.8+ acres into 23 lots with an
average lot size of 3.3+ acres; located east off Route 785 north of Route 649 and south
of the Rivanna River, north fork.
Mr. Tucker noted that the applicants requested deferral of both of the above items
until February 20, 1979.
Mrs. Graves moved for deferral.
Mrs. Diehl seconded the motion, which carried unanimously, with no further discussion.
TOM CLAUSEN FINAL PLAT (formerly Donald Waldron Final Plat) - 2.5 acre subdivision
on Ridge Road off State Route 799; located west of State Route 799 near the Fluvanna
County line.
Miss Caperton presented the applicant's request. Mr. Peatross, the applicant's
representative, and Mr. Clausen, the applicant, were present.
Mr. Peatross, the applicant's representative, stated that this 2.5 acre tract
was once part of a 33 acre tract. He noted that in May 1973, Mr. Weekly, the original
owner of the tract sold this property to Mr. Ancona, who in turn sold the parcel to
Mr. Waldron in June 1974. Mr. Peatross noted that the plat was originally recorded in
Fluvanna County and was later recorded in Albemarle County. Mr. Peatross noted that
there were indications that the subdivision was not legal because it did not comply
with the Subdivision Ordinance. Mr. Peatross noted that on December 13, 1978, Mr.
Clausen was issued a building permit and was later informed on January 3, 1979, by
Mr. Dick, Zoning Administrator, that the subdivision had never been approved and the
building permit was issued by mistake. Mr. Peatross noted that Mr. Clausen already
has acquired a construction loan, for his house, and would like to see this subdivision
approved, in order that he can begin construction of his house. Mr. Peatross noted
that regarding condition #2 (proof of right-of-way), the applicant has a right-of-way
and has title insurance also. Mr. Peatross stated that Mr. Clausen would be willing
to enter into a maintenance agreement (condition #3), but the adjacent owners would
not agree to this. He also stated that Mr. Clausen has a $30,000.00 construction loan
and since he is doing all of the work, his home will probably be assessted at $50,000
to $60,000.
Mr. Buck, the representative of the adjacent owners, stated that his clients are
opposed to this subdivision mainly because it does not comply with the Subdivision
Ordinance. He noted that the adjacent owners are not willing to join in a maintenance
agreement and therefore the subdivision would not comply with the Subdivision Ordinance.
Mr. Buck noted that this subdivision is not in keeping with the other parcels in the
area, most of whip;'- a -re 15 acres or more. He noted that 5 parcels are currently being
served by this road and if this subdivision is approved the total would rise to six.
Mr. Buck noted that the road would have to b2 widened from 10 to 14 feet to comply
with the private road requirements. Mr. Buck stated that the subdivision should be
denied by the Commission because the conditions of approval could not be met. Mr. Buck
stated that in 1974 when the Anconas sold the property to the Waldrons, he was advised
by the County Attorney that this was an unlawful subdivision until approved. He also noted
that he had corresponded with the Planning Department and was assured that a building
permit would not be issued. He noted that a building permit was issued and construction
started. Mr. Buck read a letter into the record for Mr. Cary Jackson, an adjacent
owner, who is in opposition to this subdivision. Mr. Jackson stated in his letter, that
this subdivision is not in keeping with the development in this area.
Mr. Peatross stated that it was his understanding that there isn't a legal require-
ment for a maintenance agreement, but rather that it is the Commission's policy. He
noted that his client doesn't have any problems with the conditions except for condition
#3, which the Commission can not legally require.
Mr. Payne stated that Section 18-7 of the Subdivision Ordinance states that the
Planning Commission can legally require a maintenance agreement.
Dr. Moore asked if the subdivision is on the County line or in Fluvanna County.
Mr. Payne stated that he believed the subdivision was not on the County line, but
down the center of the road, with the larger part of the subdivision in Fluvanna County.
Mr. Clausen had a deed for 1885, which he .noted showed the road running through the
property. CHe showed the document to the Commission.)
Col. Washington asked how many families are using the road at this time.
C;,
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Mr. Buck stated that the Howells, Roebucks, and Theodose are the only families
using the road as access to their homes. Fie also noted that the Bells and Dabneys own
undeveloped property along this road, but do not actually use the road for access.
Mr. Huffman asked if the people buying their property from Mr. Anocona 'Were aware that
the property was being subdivided into 3 parcels.
Mr. Roebuck, an adjacent owner, stated that they were only aware of the two parcels,
their's and the Howells.
Dr. Moore asked if the part of the subdivision located in Fluvanna County is
unlawful.
Mr. Payne stated that the complete subdivision is unlawful.
Mr. Tucker asked if the other lots in Fluvanna County are unlawful.
Mr. Payne noted that it is.
Col. Washington stated that if the Commission approves the subdivision with the
Staff's recommendations it would be to the benefit of the adjacent owners to include
condition #3.
Mr. McCann suggested that the words "if possible" be added to the end of condition
#3.
Mr. Buck stated that if the Commission approves this subdivision they will be
placing a burden on the adjacent landowners. He noted that they would either have to
maintain the road or deal with the burden of additional use on the road.
Col. Washington stated that if the adjacent owners, using the road now, are content
with the road in its present condition then they should also be content to allow Mr.
Clausen to use the road, in its present condition.
Mrs. Graves asked if this subdivision actually took place in 1974 won't the Subdivision
Ordinance in effect then apply to this subdivision.
Mr. Payne stated that if an applicant has an unlawful subdivision and would like to
come before the Planning Commission to correct this situation then the present ordinance
would apply.
Mr. McCann moved for approval with the following conditions:
1. Written Health Department approval;
2. Legal proof of the existence of an easement to this property to the satisfaction of the
County Attorney;
3. County Engineer approval of access road from Route 799;
4. Virginia Department of Highways and Transportation approval of entrance location on
Route 799;
6. Adjacent owners must include the owner of Parcel 18 on Tax Map 81;
7. Owner's notarized signature.
Mr. Huffman seconded the motion, which carried unanimously, with no further discussion.
IN
FEBRUARY 6, 1979
ARTICLE 21 - HISTORIC DISTRICT - proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance
Mr. Huffman moved to reopen the public hearing.
Mrs. Graves seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.
Mr. Payne noted that the numbering of the Historic Ordinance had been changed.
He noted that an additional sentence was added to the end of Section 21-5(a) and Section
21-5(e) had been divided into 2 parts (standards of review). Mr. Payne also noted that
this wording was taken from the Fauquier County Ordinance and with some minor changes
the wording is verbatim.
Mr. Dorrier read the following items into the record, regarding the idea of
mandatory vs. voluntary compliance:
Section 21-2(a) "The Board of Supervisors may,from time to time, establish and delineate
one or more historic districts adjacent to landmarks established by the
Virginia Historic Landmarks Commission and any other buildings or
structures within the County having an important historical, architectual
or cultural interest, and encompassing any historic areas within the
County as defined by Section 15.1-430(b) of the Code of Virginia."
Section 21-2(b) "the architectural review board hereinafter created may, from time to time,
propose to the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors such
amendments as it may deem appropriate...."
Mr. Dorrier also noted that the tax benefits of a Historic Ordinance has been stressed
many times. He noted that State benefits are for renovations of dwellings 30 years or
older or commercial buildings that are 45 years or older. Mr. Dorrier stated 4�hat
separate tax rates can be establi,s�hed at a local level by the Board of Supervisors for
these dwellings. Mr. Dorrier commented that the ordinance needs additional guidelines
setting criteria for landmarks to be designated. He noted that the Historic committee
would be willing to take the ordinance back and work on it.
Mr. Huffman stated that he believed that the owners of the properties involved
should have a better explanation of the tax incentives.
Mr. Dorrier stated that the tax incentives would depend upon the amount of
renovations, which would be amortized over a period of 5 years and would be applied to any
revenue. He noted that at a Federal leval he does not have any set figures for the tax
benefits and at the local level the Board of Supervisors will set the tax rates.
Mrs. Diehl asked if anyone knows of any locality that has enacted a separate t.a.,
rate of this nature.
Mr. Payne stated that the State statutes regarding these tax incentives were not
enacted until September 1976 and there have not been any taxes collected under these
rates.
Col. Washington asked what the size of a district will be; will it con,§ists of the
landmarks or the proge:=ty surrounding it.
Mr. Dorrier stated that this would involve the question of whether you wanted to
encourange compatible developement around the property or just designate the landmark;
itself. He noted that the propose of the ordinance to to perserve the landmark.
Col. Washington asked how this would affect the landowner across the road, who
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is .incompatible with the landmark.
Mr. Dorrier stated that he does not think the ordinance is telling the owner across
the road what he can do with his house. He noted that the Architectual Review Board is
concerned with major external repairs or alterations.
Col. Washington asked what will be done with the home that is not compatible.
Mr. Dorrier stated that if that person choses not to renovate his home, in order to
be compatible with the landmarks, he will not be eligible for any tax relief.
Mr. Vest asked how this ordinance will affect the property owner across the street
who would like to add an addition on to his house.
Mr. Dorrier noted that he would apply for a building permit, which will have to be
approved by the Architectual Review Board.
Col. Washington stated that some of the members of the Commission felt that each
landmark to be designated should be processed similar to a rezoning request. He asked
if this is possible.
Mr. St. John stated that Mr. Payne's comments from the previous Planning Commission
meeting were correct. He noted that the State Code allows the Board of Supervisors, by
ordinance, to set forth historic landmark districts. Mr. St. John also noted that
the Code allows the Board of Supervisors to enlarge the district or change the district.
Col. Washington asked if this can be voluntary like a rezoning request is now.
Mr. St. John stated that the Zoning ordinance and the Code states that a rezoning
can be enacted by the owner, Planning Commission, or the Board of Supervisors. He noted
that the ordinance, does not say land can only be rezoned at the owners request, it says
that the land can be rezoned without the owners permission. Mr. St. John said that if
this ordinance is enacted it will have to be like the present Zoning ordinance.. He noted that
the State Statute does not envision an ordinance that is voluntary. He also stated that
if this ordinance is enacted every landmark included on the Virginia Historic Landmarks
Commission list would have to be designated. Mr. St. John noted that the regulations
regarding each district are determined by the.Planning Commission and the Board of Super-
visors. He stated that a ordinance can prescribe the size of the district, which could
be just the landmark or can include the immediate area around the landmark. Mr. St. John
also noted that the purpose of the ordinance is to protect the landmark and its environment.
Mr. Huffman asked Mr. St. John if this ordinance is adopted will the landmarks listed
with the Virginia Landmarks Commission have to be automatically included.
Mr. St. John noted that the State Code states that they must be included. He
stated that if they are not included it would be difficult to enforce the ordinance.
Mr. Huffman asked if the Virginia Landmarks are included could the remaining
landmarks be considered for designation upon individual request.
Mr. St. John noted that the property owner is not the only individual that can
request that a landmark be designated. Mr. St. John noted that the ordinance could
include those landmarks listed with the Virginia Landmarks Commission and leave the
ordinance open to amendment.
Dr. Moore asked if an application for designation of a landmark would come before
the Commission.
Mr. St. John stated that the Code does not say it would, but the Board of Supervisors
would probably want a request for designation to come before the Planning Commission first.
Dr. Moore asked if a landmark is designated the land would not necessarily be
included in this designation unless the Planning Commission should request it and
additional portions of land can be added to the district upon request.
Mr. Payne stated that this is correct.
Mr. George McCallum stated that he is concerned about the lack of understanding
among the members of the Planning Commission concerning tax benefits. He noted that there
are three areas which need to be considered they are:
#1 - Albemarle County can adjust the tax rate, but this tax rate is available to any
structure renovated subject to Board of Supervisors approval;
#2 - Land use taxation, which includes four categories:
1. Agriculture
2• Horticulture
3. Forestry
4. Open Space (land used for historic purposes)
This rate of taxation applies only to the land and not any structure located
upon it. This tax rate allows for a minimum of 5 acres and any structure would
be taxed at the normal tax rates.
#3 - Federal tax rate and laws, which concerns property that is listed on the
National Register. The tax rates applies only to the structure and not any
properties that might be included in a local historic district. He also noted
that this tax rate is not available if the property is being used as a residence,
but would apply to commerical or rental property.
Mr. McCallum noted that his major objections is that a district is not defined in the
ordinance. He noted that at a later date, the Board of Supervisors could delineate the
district. Mr. McCallum also noted that the ordinance needs to define criteria for the
district. He noted that if the landmark, alone, is designed then the ordinance is
protecting the landmark from its owner.
Mr. Overton asked if defining the limits of a district will be whatever the Planning
Commission and Board of Supervisors decide.
Col. Washington stated that he believed that is correct.
Mr. Collins stated that the liklihood of a landmark being designated without the
owner's approval should be discussed rather than the issued of a voluntary or mandatory
ordinance. He also noted that a board should be created to correspond with the Virginia
Historic Landmarks Commission concerning cost, etc. He noted that this board should
work with the landowners. He noted that the ordinance now is very reasonably concerning
landmarks in the countryside and the urban area.
Mr. Clover stated that the problems with this ordinance are not small, but with
proper thought and guidance these landmarks can be preserved. 'le noted that he felt
individuals buying this property would be glad to have the chance to meet with an
Architectual Review Board to advise them on renovations and improvements to the property.
Ms. Sue Rainey, League or Women Voters, read a letter into the record concerning
the Historic Ordinance. (attached)
Mr. Jim Scott, stated that his home is on the Virginia Landmarks Commission list
but he noted that he would be hesitant to submit plans, for renovations, to a Board for
approval. He stated that he would like to see the historic ordinance be voluntary.
M
1'os Ache rle :;minty Plannini: Cnmrisael,sn
»roans LOA•!,us of ,'r nen 'scoters of Wharlotteeville and Albemarle cy.
Dates February 50 1978
The Lea vue of nri►nn voters favors County action to protect its
old" structitreas and eito.,v wit'i architoctura3 ane. historic
significance. R>t V_o € 'In time, we recn%-nine t .at 4!rotectin-
tha► County's Inn; -. ,ar*zs is 4 aijore complicated than �xseeest.�►�«�
e�stse'�11 '?i r� a diNtr .tt in a city. in a rural context,'
not only to it necosvary to :reserves a buildin -9 but the Vita
of txiat �� - n - as wall, ui.te rafters �anszs tiie natural 4settin, —..
the 0'—'on t lelc: v s Vie P°-feenirr vista ��*r-•trr�sa- to �r �ta�t=se
ucn w wg Ct -tal, :;:.era ►-9s preserved alort., with the hours
much of what we value in Albemarle's historic landscape is
lost.
The question of how to protect at least the most sionifieant
of these sites and their vottinga is a difficult one. in
attempting to understand the opposition to the proposal under
considerations we have come to the opinion that much of it is
based on fear of the unknowns that size districts are contemplated?
Will restrictions hinder farming operations? dhich of the many
possible structures should we really attempt to preserve?
We think it might be better to clarify those questions and
approach the matter in this ways as Prof. Collins has ougnosteds
Establish a Historic Landmarks Commission or Architectural
Review Board and charge them with the task of recommending;
the historic districts for the county and the procedures for
their protection. Lacb case would have to be considered
individually --protecting; a church in use today might involve
different procedures foam protecting a home.
We recommend that in any historic district the erection or
alteration of faun buildings on oneratinry farms be exempted from
regulation. An active agricultural operation should not be
encumbered by requirements which might adversely affect it,
lie cannot make our fauns into farm museums or expect 20th
century farmers to operate 18th century farms*
Turthermores we DW gest- that in the current "vivion of the
zoning ordinance an attempt A6 be made to Incorporate..
wherever possible-- techniques of protectinr+. the landscape
surroundimT historic landmarks --for example in considering special
permits: s in scenic hi!Iiway rep*,ulations s and perhaps in any
bonus syste . she laws concerning historic districts Oho must
be conr:.+inatod with th" ovorall zaninr; re;tuiationa.
Perhaps in tZ a leant- run thin approach would be more fruithl
than the one pr000sed,
:sue ca i nay
Land i se Go:,;m pistee
League of Voters
M-
Mr. Bill Stevens stated that Albemarle County has many historic landmarks, which
have been preserved by the owners. He noted that these homes and their owners don't
` need to be protected by the County.
Mr. Swofford noted that he was impressed with the revised ordinance and feels that
Commission should move ahead with the ordinance. He noted that an agency is needed to
keep a check on the landmarks. Mr. Swofford also stated that once this ordinance is adopted,
it will increase property values considerably.
Mr. Vermillion stated that he is still opposed to the Historic Ordinance.
Mr. Hughes stated that he felt individuals should not forget that a voluntary
ordinance can work two ways.
Mr. Dorrier noted to the Commission that he had a list of questionaire from citizens
in favor of the Historic Ordinance.
Mr. McCann stated that the average citizen that would be affected by this ordinance
is not even aware of what is happening with the ordinance.
Col. Washington stated that it has been suggested by members of the Planning Commission
that this ordinance be sent back to the Historic Preservation Committee for some additional
work. He noted that if Mr. Dorrier would accept this, the Commission could withdraw their
resolution of intent and send the ordinance back. Col. Washington noted that one of the
speakers at the last hearing on this matter stated that they felt it would be better to have
a very restrictive ordinance, which could be amended to ease some of the restrictions. He
stated that he felt the ordinance should be less restrictive to start with, in order to
find the ordinance's strong and weak points. Col. Washington stated that he could not
support the ordinance as written, because he feels the ordinance has the right idea, but
could be handled differently. He asked Mr. Dorrier if he agreed that the ordinance needs
more work.
Mr. Dorrier stated that the ordinance can be taken back for more work. He noted
that criteria needs to be established for a district and some properties could be exempt
from this ordinance, but he noted the ordinance is as mild now, as it could possibly be.
He noted that if the ordinance goes back to the Historic Preservation Committe the
Commission will not see any major changes.
Col. Washington stated that the outer limits of a historic district needs to be
defined.
Mr. Dorrier stated that a definite size of the district could be defined.
Mrs. Diehl stated that she basically agrees with the purpose of the ordinance, but
there are some changes she would like to see. She noted that she would like to the
size of a district defined, more information on tax incentives, composition of the
Archtectual Review Board, and information on how non -conforming use are treated in a
historic district.
Mrs. Graves stated that she agrees with the concept of historic preservation, but
would like to see a list of homes that would be included under this ordinance. She also
stated that she feels an ordinance of this nature is necessary, because of a situation
which involved Ash Lawn and a subdivision which was adjacent to this property.
Mrs. Graves moved for deferral for 60 days.
Dr. Moore seconded the motion.
N
Mr. McCann made a subsitute motion to withdraw the resolution of intent.
Mr. Vest seconded the motion.
Mr. Huffman stated that he is in favor of the concept of the ordinance, but
would like to see this ordinance worked out to everyone's benefit. He noted that
he would not want to see an ordinance that would set up a district that would restrict
developement, as far from the landmark as the subdivision was from Ash Lawn., which Mrs.
I�raves was referring to.
Col. Washington stated that he does not feel the Commission can give this ordinance
the consideration that it needs because of the time involved with the proposed Zoning
Ordinance.
Mr. McCann amended his motion to withdraw the resolution of intent until the
Commission has completed its work on the proposed Zoning Ordinance.
Mr. Vest seconded the motion, which carried with a vote of 5-3. Mrs. Diehl,
Mrs. Graves and Dr. Moore dissented. There was no further discussion.
Be it resolved that the Board of Supervisors of Albemarle County, Virginia, does
hereby state its intent to amend the Residential Planned Neighborhood District to
accomodate agricultural uses within RPN and to give density credit for that common open
space that could be in a farm use provided that the farm, although it might be privately
owned, be maintained within the RPII and subject to all uses under the RPN District.
Mr. Keeler presented this item. He noted that the changes made to the plan
include, deletion of the community center, 2 acre lot around the -rental unit, and the
150 acre open space would be used for farm operation by Christian Retreats.
'ors. Graves noted that in the past open space had been used as a buffer between
operational uses and residential uses.
Mr. Payne stated that this would not cause an initial change in the lot lines.
He noted that the Farm operation would be considered just another lot.
Mr. Keeler read a letter from Mr. Stuart, an adjacent owner into the record.
(attached)
Col. Washington asked how this request went before the Board without coming
to the Commission first.
Mr. Keeler stated that Mr. Manzano went before the Board with his request because
the Board gave the final approval. He noted that Mr. Manzano had some questions as to
what was the actual approval.
Mr. Lindstrom asked why 100 acres was used in Section 19-5-2.
Mr. Payne stated that he chose this figure for several reasons. He noted that
you can't have a farm under 100 acres, a relatively large area should be substituted for the
open space and it would only be appropriate to have agriculture to subsitute for open space in
an RPN which itself has a significant size.
Mr. Lindstrom stated that the Board's reasons for this resolution of.intent to
amend the RPN District was because the Ordinance would not permit agricultural uses in an RPN
and permanently dedicated could be part of a Planned Development.
BATESVILLE, VIRGINIA 22924
TELEPHONE ( 703 ) 456-6197
1 February 1979
Planning Department
414 east Market street
Charlottesville
VA 22901
Attention: Mr. Ronald S. Keeler
Assistant Director of Planning
Dear Mr. Keeler:
Re: Christian Retreats Inc.
Requests ZMA-79- land ZMA-79-2
Please refer to the Planning Departments letters of
January 22, 23, and 26 on the above subject.
The Herbert W. and Patricia B. Stuart property is
shown as parcels #23C and #23A at the intersection of #692 and
- - #637 east on the attached maps. We adjoin the Christian Retreats
property for a distance of 1410 feet along #637 east of #692.
We have studied the application (ZMA-79-1) and the
existing approved plan and as is well known have taken no
opposition to it. We consider seriously the need for the original
excellent plan and the contributions that were given by the
Planning Department and the other County agencies concerned.
The three amendments now requested as shown in your
letter of January 26 have been thoroughly considered with you
and our neighbors. The Stuarts recommend approval of the three
amendments and particularly endorse the necessity for Christian
Retreats Inc. to retain complete control of the farm operation
and farm land. The need for this control is so obvious to an
adjoining farmer that it makes us wonder why such an unrealistic
scheme was ever proposed.
As we understand the present situation, prompt action
is necessary to the development that has already taken place and
that the second application (ZMA-79-2) is an alternative to allow
Christian Retreats Inc. to take control within the very limited
requirements of A-1 zoning.
Please advise the Planning Commission and the Board of
Supervisors to approve the amendments to ZMA-79-1 as promptly as
possible to preserve the good planning and work that has been
done by all concerned.
Sincerely yours,
rber�Wu�art�
(Patricia Bonsall Stua:-
/D
m
Mr. Payne noted that this amendment is not being made to accomodate Christian
Retreats.
Mr. Keeler noted that the concept of open space does not necessarily mean this is an
area where,open:space may have pyschological.utility.. He noted.that the public will have
access to this area also.
Col. Washington stated that he does not feel Christian Retreats should enter
the discussion on this amendment. He noted that the Commission should discuss
whether in Section 19-5-2 the wording should be 100 acres or 10% of the site.
Mr. Payne stated that if 10% of a 10 acre RPN was agricultural you would have
a 1 acre farm, which would be ridiculous. One acre of open space would not be bad,
but when you are speaking in terms of a farming operation it makes quite a difference.
Mr. McCann stated that if a farming operation is being considered the Commission
should discuss an amount of acreage that is reasonable. He also noted that there are
problems with-intergratng a farm, and a residential area.
Col. Washington stated that the problem is not with farms that raise corps, but
with farms that raise livestock.
Mr. Stuart, an adjacent owner, stated that he felt the open space should be
equal to the space allowed for residential use.
Col. Washington said 50% open space.
Mr. Tucker stated that the open space could be limited to 25%.
Col. Washington asked if this could only apply to RPNs of 100 acres or more.
Mr. Tucker stated that this could be done.
Mr. Lindstrom stated that frequently a situation arises when an individual owns
75 acres, of which he would like to subdivide a portion and keep 50 acres for himself.
He noted that this person is not a serious farmer, but this would be enough to protect
him.
Mr. Payne noted that Christian Retreats sought an RPN because of the multi-
family dwelling.
Mrs. Graves asked if these dwellings are existing.
Mr. Payne noted that the building is existing but not asa multi -family dwelling.
Col. Washington stated that he would agree with a 100 acre RPN having a 25%
agricultural operation.
Mr. Keeler suggested that this be decreased to 20%, because of the area that would
be used for roads and this would allow for lots 60,000 square feet.
Col. Washington stated that he agreed with Mr. Lindstrom's example and believes 25%
percent of the site should be used for agriculture., because the owner can subdivide and
there wouldn't be any control over the number of dwellings.
Mr. Payne suggested the following wording be added to the end of Section 19-5-2:
and together or developed with such additional dwelling units, if any, as the Commission
may approved on the preliminary plan,..." He noted that this would allow more than one
dwelling unit, but if the applicant would want any additional dwelling units, other
than those shown on the plan, the item would have to come back before the Planning
Commission to amend the preliminary plan.
Mrs. Graves stated that the Commission would then have less chance of getting any
open space.
Mr. Payne stated that if a 100 acre RPN is submitted with 75 lots, which are not
restricted to agricultural use, one lot would be at least 25 acres with one dwelling unit
and be used for individual farm operation.
Mr. McCann stated that if a 200 acre farm with 25% agricultural use is the minimum
this would allow 50 acres of open space for agricultural uses, which would be easier to
work with.
Col. Washington stated that he feels 25 acres is just as easy to work with as 50.
Mr. McCann stated that he doesn't feel 25 acres would be as compatible with a
residential area as 50 acres.
Col. Washington asked how open space can be justified when 2, 3, and 5 acre lots
are involved.
Mr. Keeler noted that there are many different kinds of open space. He noted
that in some situations open space is used to protect streams.
Mr. McCann stated that he could go along with 100 acres instead of 200.
Mr. McCann moved that this amendment be recommended for approval to the Board of
Supervisors.
Mr. Skove seconded the motion, which carried unanimously, with no further discussion.
ZMA-79-01. CHRISTIAN RETREATS is petitioning the Board of Supervisors to amend
their RPN/A-1 Plan of 236.54 acres. Property is located on the north side of Route 637
west of interesection of Route 692 and 637. County Tax Map 70, Parcel 39; and County
Tax Map 71, Parcel 22A.
Mr. Keeler presented the applicant's request. Mr. Tatum, the applicant's represent-
ative, was present.
Col. Washington noted that he had originally voted against the RPN because he did
not feel a number of bosses can run a farm.
Mr. McCann moved that this amendment be recommended for approval to the Board of
Supervisors.
Mr. Payne asked Mr. Tatum if the main house has 7 or 8 units.
Mr. Tatum noted that there is a total of 8 units in the dwelling.
Mr. Skove seconded the motion, which carried unanimously, with the following conditions:
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1. Compliance with the conditions of ZMA-78-09 (Note: In condition #8, delete the
wording "or the community center");
2. Applicant may record pedestrian easements linking residential areas in lieu of
construction of pedestrian trails. This shall be accomplished prior to issuance
of any certificate of occupancy.
There was no further discussion on this item.
ZMA-79-02. CHRISTIAN RETREATS is petitioning the Board of Supervisors to rezone
236.54 acres from RPN/A-1 to A-1 Agriculture. Property is located on the north side
of Route 637 west of the intersection of Route 692 and 637. County Tax Map 70, Parcel
29; and County Tax Map 71, Parcel 22A.
Mr. Keeler presented the applicant's request. Mr. Tatum, the applicant's
representative, was present.
Mr. Payne informed the Commission that they could recommend ZMA-79-02 for approval,
in case the Board of Supervisors should deny ZMA-79-01.
Mr. McCann moved that ZMA-79-02 be recommended for approval to the Board of
Supervisors, but recommend that the Board except the RPN amendments.
Dr. Moore stated that he would like to restudy the A-1 proposal, because he feels
that this area has a problem with the roads.
Mr. Tatum stated that the applicant would like to see the amendments to the RPN
approved and that ZMA-79-02 was an alternative method.
Mr. Vest moved that the Board of Supervisors deny ZMA-79-02.
Mr. McCann seconded the motion, which carried unanimously, with no further discussion.
There was no further discussion and the meeting adjourned at 11:30 p.m.
I
Ro ert W.L Tucker, Jr. Se r % ary
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