HomeMy WebLinkAbout02 04 86 PC MinutesFebruary 4, 1986
The Albemarle County Planning Commission held a public hearing
on Tuesday, February 4, 1986, Meeting Room 7, County Office
Building. Those members present were: Mr. David Bowerman,
Chairman; Mr. Richard Cogan, Vice Chairman; Mr. Harry
Wilkerson; Ms. Norma Diehl; Mr. Richard Gould; Mr. Tim
Michel; and Mr. Peter Stark. Other officials present
were: Mr. John Horne, Director of Planning and Community
Development; Mr. Ronald Keeler, Chief of Planning; Ms.
Katherine Imhoff, Chief of Community Development; and Mr.
Frederick Payne, Deputy County Attorney (entered the meeting
at 7:30 p.m.).
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and
established that a quorum was present.
The minutes of the January 21, 1986 meeting were approved as
written.
CPA-86-1 Urban District Park - Request to amend Albemarle County
Comprehensive Plan, Map 9, with respect to a park consisting of
approximately 100 acres. This proposed park is located west
of Route 20 North and north of Rt. 1421 (Elk Drive) and bordered
on the west by the Rivanna River. The Comprehensive Plan
currently recommends low density residential development, a
change to public use -recreational is requested. Tax Map 78,
parcel 1, Tax Map 62, parcel 23. Rivanna Magisterial District.
Ms. Imhoff gave the staff report. She added that the following
should be added under the "Staff Recommendations" section of
the report: To amend Map 9: Urban Land Use Plan, to show a
change in usage from low density/residential to public use/
recreation.
Mr. Gould asked what advantage this site has,in terms of allowing
phase development, that the other sites do not have. Ms.
Imhoff responded that the primary problem with the other three
sites is the lack of public utility availability.
asked
Mr. Stark/if there were any future plans for the development of
the other sites. Ms. Imhoff indicated that Biscuit Run
might possibly be a mini -park in the future. She added that
a problem has been that the park element of the Comprehensive
Plan is outdated and thus provided very little information.
She explained this was the reason a parks element had been
included in the Athletic Needs Study Review.
Mr. Cogan asked how crucial public utilities are to a facility
of this nature. Ms. Imhoff responded that it would depend
on the intensity of the types of recreation, e.g, a sports
complex would be more intensive than more passive types of
recreation, and the anticipated volume of use.
.1/,Y,?
February 4, 1986
Page 2
Ms. Imhoff pointed out that, at this time, there are no
specific uses decided upon for the site.
Ms. Diehl stated that the only issue under consideration at
this time is the feasibility of changing this region to
a park area, excluding any other specifics. Ms. Imhoff
confirmed this was correct.
Mr. Gould asked if it was the site, or the size (100 acres)
which limits the possibility of long-term softball. Ms.
Imhoff stated she thought the 100 acres would be too small
for anything other than tournament softball. Mr. Gould
asked if that was the case with the other sites. Ms. Imhoff
responded that the Biscuit Run site was almost 400 acres.
Ms. Imhoff further explained that currently the County has
only "league" softball, whereas "tournament" softball will
draw teams from other regions. She stated this site could
accommodate four softball fields, which would take care of
local needs.
In response to Mr. Wilkerson's question as to when construction
would begin if the petition were approved "tonight," Ms.
Imhoff responded that the establishment of a committee would
probably be the next step and the matter would also have to
go through the CIP (Capital Improvements Program) process.
Mr. Wilkerson asked if the needed improvements to schools
would be completed before any work on the park was begun.
Ms. Imhoff responded that decision would be made by the
Board of Supervisors and the Planning Commission through the
Capital Improvements Program.
Mr. Stark asked if the Commission should be considering the
purchase price of the property, or the zoning, at this time.
Ms. Imhoff responded the only issue at this time is the
Comp Plan recommended land use and the zoning. She confirmed,
however, that the County must act within a certain period of
time or the option to purchase the land will be lost, i.e.
February 17, 1986. It was determined the total price of the
land is $725,000, the County's share being one-half of that
amount.
Mr. Horne explained that many of the figures included in the
consultant's report were purely to give the Board and City
Council a relative idea of the cost of developing the site.
He emphasized that the cost estimates are not final. He
also pointed out that the decision to purchase the property
is separate from the decision to develop the property.
He stated that though the property can be purchased without
changing the Comp Plan, it would not be possible to develop
it as a park without changing the Plan.
Mr. Wilkerson indicated he was concerned about making such
a decision without knowing what the actual cost of the land
will be.
13
February 4, 1986
Page 3
Mr. Horne again stressed that all that was before the
Commission was a change in the Comprehensive Plan.
Mr. Cogan indicated the Commission understood this was only
the first step of several, but they also understood why
the Plan is being changed and the long-range implications
of such a change. He stated it was very difficult to
separate the two issues.
Mr. Wilkerson asked for a explanation of the term "long-term"
in relation to the future needs of softball play. Ms.
Imhoff asked Mr. Pat Mullaney (Parks and Recreation) to address
that question.
Mr. Mullaney stated there was a way the site could meet
the long-term future needs for softball, but that would
involve lighting of the site which is not being proposed
at this time. He stated if you attempted to meet all
the softball needs, that one activity would totally monopolize
the site. He stated "we" are trying to develop a park that will
serve several different activities, a family -use park.
He emphasized that the joint committee has decided that there
will be no lighting on the park at all, except what is needed
for security purposes. He stated there was no lighting
purposed for the park through 1994.
Ms. Diehl stated she did not fee this was relavent to the
current issue. Mr. Bowerman agreed although he added that
the two issues are very closely intertwined. He stressed
that the Commission should be mindful of the role they
would like to play in the planning process for the park,
in the event the Plan is amended. He suggested that the
Commission might wish to make some recommendations to the
Board which would accompany the Commission's action on the
proposed amendment.
Mr. Michel again asked Mr. Mullaney his definition of "long-term."
Mr. Mullaney replied this means through the year 2000 and beyond.
The Chairman invited public comment and emphasized that the
issue before the Commission was a change in the Comprehensive
Plan and not the specifics of the total use of the site.
Ms. Marie Reel, President of the Key West -Cedar Hills Community
Association, addressed the Commission. She presented a
packet of 104 letters (containing 179 signatures) which
indicated support of a "daytime" park. She also read the
following statement:
Key West -Cedar Hills Community Association urges that
you consider converting certain areas of McIntire Park
into additional lighted softball fields. We further
urge that if the Mahanes site is acquired that it be
used for multi -purpose, daytime activities with a
permanent injunction against night lighting for any
sport or other activities.
A0,11
February 4, 1986 Page 4
Mr. David Snyder, a resident of Key West, addressed the
Commission. He stated he had not signed the letter which
most of the Key West residents had signed. He was in
favor of lighted tennis courts being included in the
facility and he also stated he felt it was "silly" to destroy
part of McIntire Park and duplicate it elsewhere.
Though Mr. Snyder had some reservations about increased
traffic, he indicated he was in favor of the proposed park
usage.
Mr. Roger Flint, President of the Charlottesville Tennis Players
Association, addressed the Commission and supported the
proposal. He also suggested that the tennis courts be included
in phase No. 1 of the park development, for daytime use.
Ms. Judy Vermillion, a resident of Franklin, addressed the
Commission and expressed her support for the proposal. She
also commended staff for their cooperation in working with
the public on this issue.
Mr. Blake Hurt, an adjacent property owner and builder, addressed
the Commission. He indicated he was in favor of the proposal
but he had the following questions: (1) If the master plan
is altered, is the County committed to buying the property? He
stated he was concerned to see the County ammending the
Comp Plan without a committment to follow through. (2) If
the County does not purchase this property, does this change in
the master plan make this property more difficult to develop
for housing? (3) What consideration has the County given
to additional areas in the County land that would be made
available for community housing if this piece of property
is "taken out?"
Mr. Glenn Brown, adjacent property owner, addressed the
Commission. He indicated he was opposed to the proposed park
because of the increase in traffic and because he felt it
would devalue surrounding property values.
There being no further public comment, the matter was placed
before the Commission.
Mr. Bowerman addressed Mr. Hurt's questions to Mr. Payne
for response. (1) Mr. Payne confirmed that the County
is not committed to purchasing the property if the
Comp Plan is amended. (2) Mr. Payne confirmed that the
property would be more difficult to later develop for housing
if the master plan is changed, and the property is not
subsequently purchased by the County. (3) No consideration
has been given to adding additional areas if this low -density
piece of property is taken out of the master plan.
(4) Mr. Bowerman indicated it is not possible to answer
where housing could go that might have been located on this
property.
February 4, 1986
Page 5
1�mw Mr. Stark asked if it were possible for the Commission, if it
recommends approval of the amendment, to also recommend
purchase of the property.
Mr. Payne responded, "There's a statute that requires before
any property is acquired for a public purpose or before any
public activity is commenced on a property, that the determination
be made either that the use contemplated is shown as a designated
feature on the Plan or it's determined by the Planning
Commission to be in substantial accordance with the Plan. The
idea here is you can't really establish a park until you
establish that the Plan contemplates it, either specifically,
or at least generally. The idea here is that if this is
an appropriate place to have a park, and the Board of
Supervisors so determines, then I think it naturally follows
that it probably will be a park. (Therefore) I think that
those two actions that you suggest are consistent, but I
think the second one is almost contemplated in the first
one."
Mr. Stark stated he had visited the site and felt it was a
beautiful park site. He indicated he was in favor of
recommending approval of the amendment.
Ms. Diehl indicated she agreed with Mr. Stark. However, she
added there are still a lot of questions to be answered and
stated she was not interested in a softball complex, but
rather a park that will meet the needs of many people.
Mr. Cogan indicated he was in favor of the
expressed the following reservations: (1)
is served by public utilities may lead to
more commercial than is desired; and (2)
venture of the City and County means that
as to final development.
amendment but
The fact that the site
it becoming
This being a joint
views may differ
Mr. Bowerman indicated he agreed with those views already
expressed and added the following concerns: (1) It should
be a multi -use facility; (2) There should be no access
to Elk Drive from Rt. 250 (as an entrance to the site) until
Free Bridge has been improved. Mr. Bowerman stated he would
like to see this included in the recommendation to the Board,
i.e. that access to the site be from Rt. 20 onto Elk Drive.
Ms. Diehl indicated she shared Mr. Bowerman's concerns about
the use of Free Bridge. However, she stated she did not
understand how the conditions that had been suggested could
accompany approval of the CPA. Mr. Bowerman stated this would
not be a condition, but rather a concern, and would be an
accompanying document to the approval.
Mr. Michel stated he would like to see the recommendation that
it be a multi -use park included in such a document.
IY41-
February 4, 1986 Page 6
Mr. Bowerman suggested that it also be included in the
document that the Commission would like to be included
"at the basement level" in the planning process for the park.
Mr. Gould stated he was leery of conditions that might hinder
the joint effort of the City and the County.
Mr. Bowerman stated he felt it was the Commission's function
to be involved in this type of planning. Mr. Gould agreed.
Mr. Stark suggested "keeping it clean" at this stage and then
making recommendations later on in the process.
Mr. Bowerman indicated he did not feel he could support the
amendment under those circumstances.
Ms. Diehl stated she felt this would stand by itself and any
separate recommendations could be in the form of a separate
motion.
Ms. Diehl moved that CPA-86-1 relating to an Urban District
Park be recommended to the Board of Supervisors for approval
as follows:
• Amend Map 6: Community Facilities, to show the new
park location (page 93);
• Amend the text of page 96 to describe the new park
and its future utilization plans;
• Amend the text of page 247 to describe the new park in
Chapter 14: Community Facilities and Utilities Plan;
• Amend Map 9: To show a change of usage from low density/
residential to public use/recreation.
Mr. Stark seconded the motion.
Discussion:
Mr. Wilkerson stated he was not opposed to changing the land
use at this time; however he would be opposed to any park
construction until such a time as all County schools have been
brought up to standard.
of
Mr. Cogan stated he was in favor/the Commission having a periodic
review of the plans as they proceed, rather than being presented
with one elaborate plan at the end.
In order to address the concerns of the Commission, Mr. Horne
suggested that he draft a memo which would accompany the
Commission's action to the Board which would list those concerns
as follows:
If 7
February 4, 1986
Page 7
• No access onto Rt. 250 from the southern end of Elk
Drive;
• Commission desires to be involved in the early planning
process for the park;
• Commission prefers that it be a multi -use park.
Mr. Payne agreed this was an advisable way to handle the
issue. The Commission indicated this was acceptable.
The previously -stated motion for approval of CPA-86-1 passed
unanimously.
Regarding the Commission's desire to be involved in the planning
process for the park, Mr. Keeler stated that historically
such issues have been treated as site plans and the Commission
wishes to to be involved in those issues which effect the
public. Mr. Bowerman confirmed this.
Mr. Gould stated this also focuses on the need for a very
highly coordinated effort to lobby for Free Bridge in order
to get it elevated in the priorities.
SP-85-95 John B. Moon, Estate - Request in accordance with Section
30.3.5.2.2(3) of the Albemarle County Zoning Ordinance to allow
for a landfill in the floodplain for purposes of road construction
on part of 462.20 acres. Zoned RA, Rural Areas, with NR,
Natural Resource overlay on parts. Parcel 16A is used for
residential and parcel 16 is vacant. Property, described as
Tax Map 62, parcel 16, 16A, is located on the east side of
Rt. 631 (Rio Road) adjacent to the Rivanna River and is part
of the Dunlora Estate. Rivanna Magisterial District.
Mr. Keeler gave the staff report.
The Chairman invited applicant comment. Mr. Morris Foster
was present to represent the applicant but offered no
additional comment.
There being no public comment, the matter was placed before the
Commission.
Ms. Diehl asked if there are any restrictions on the content
of the fill material. Mr. Payne responded, "The Ordinance
speaks to that specifically; the Ordinance speaks to
what you can put in a landfill in the floodplain." Mr.
Keeler added that the County Engineer is very sensitive to
the question of character of the fill material.
Mr. Cogan moved that SP-85-95 for John B. Moon, Estate be
recommended to the Board of Supervisors for approval.
February 4, 1986
E
Mr. Wilkerson seconded the motion which was unanimously
approved.
(No Board date was noted.)
SP-85-91 Cardinal Industries - Request in accordance with Section
22.2.2 of the Albemarle County Zoning Ordinance to allow for a
motel on 3.749 acres currently used as residential. Property,
described as Tax Map 61M-01, parcel 6 and 7, is located on the
west side of Rt. 29 north of Westfield Road. Zoned C-1, Commercial.
Charlottesville Magisterial District.
Mr. Keeler gave the staff report. He also called the Commission's
attention to the problem with screening which had surfaced at
the time of a previous approval for a motel on this property.
Those lots involved with the screening issue are Lots 17 and 18,
owners West and Gorman. Mr. Keeler stated that issue was to
have been worked out between the applicant and the property
owners. In addition, Mr. Keeler presented a letter from Mr.
Ragland, a neighboring property owner, and attempted to
address some of Mr. Ragland's concerns as follows:
(1) Ragland property is being flooded - Mr. Keeler
stated part of this problem is caused by a pipe
which pre -dates the subdivision of this property,
though the pipe comes "off of Ms. Brown's property."
Mr. Keeler stated he felt this was not relevant
to the current motel application. The additional
drainage problem mentioned in the Ragland's letter
also seems to have existed before the subdivision
and deals with drainage which comes off of the
mobile home park. Mr. Keeler stated the County
Engineer has indicated he will have that problem
corrected at the time of approval of the site
plan.
(2) Replacement of trees that were removed on the Ragland
property line - (Removal of the trees allows both
automobile headlights and the motel sign light to
shine into the Ragland 'home.) - Mr. Keeler
stated that staff has recommended in the text of
the staff report (though it is not reflected in
the conditions) that the double row of white pines
be continued on down to commercial lot No. 1.
Mr. Keeler clarified that the double row of white pines
was recommended in the text, but was not specifically
outlined in the conditions. He added, however, "But if we
approve the plan administratively, that is what we'll be
looking for." He stated that the Commission could stipulate
that in the conditions if deemed necessary.
Regarding the problem of the light from the existing motel
sign, Mr. Keeler explained there is a condition on site plans
which stipulates that exterior lighting be directed away from
adjoining properties and the public road. He recommended that
the Raglands contact the Zoning Administrator on this issue.
�f
February 4, 1986
Page 9
Mr. Keeler also stated that the Ragland's have had some problems
with "foreign soil" on the property and the County Engineer
has indicated he is going to require correction of that
matter in one fashion or another.
Mr. Keeler also presented a letter from Mr. McClure, attorney
for Ms. Brown (owner of the property). Mr. McClure's letter
indicated he is working on the screening issue. Mr. Keeler
explained the problems with screening were a result of the
following: "The road plans that were approved for the
internal road showed initial construction of a rural
cross section, 24-foot width, to be increased to 36 feet
width and curb and gutter, at final development. Apparently,
with that width of road, there would not be room for two
rows of trees." Mr. Keeler questioned whether there was room
for two rows even if the road width is not increased.
He stated Mr. McClure wants to discuss with the staff the
possibility of reducing the pavement width so that there
will be room for the double row of trees.
In response to Mr. Cogan's question as to why the road was
being increased from 24 feet to 36 feet, Mr. Keeler responded,
"I am baffled by that. It was the way the plan was approved
originally, i.e. that the initial road construction would
be a 24-foot rural section, and as development occurred it would
be enlarged to a 36-foot width pavement with curb and gutter.
I think a 24-foot width would be better for the Berkeley
community because a 36-foot width would probably permit
on -street parking." Mr. Cogan questioned the necessity of
the wider road since it is serving only a few businesses.
Mr. Keeler agreed.
Regarding the possibility of planting the two rows of trees,
Mr. Keeler stated he was unsure as to whether the two rows
could be planted at the grade level of the road or if one
row would have to be down slope somewhat. He emphasized
that he was not making an endorsement of a solution at
this time, but was merely informing the Commission of the
status of the screening issue. He added that he was
recommending that if the screening issue was not resolved,
the site plan would be brought back to the Commission for
review. He pointed out that it was his intent that the
issue be resolved "all the way down to commercial lot No. l."
He stated that Mr. McClure has indicated this screening
plan is acceptable, provided there is room for it.
Mr. Bowerman asked if the property (the entire subdivision)
was still owned by one owner. Mr. Keeler explained that
Lot No. 1 has been sold though no site plan has been approved.
Plans have been approved on lots 3, 4 and 5. The current
application is for lots 6 and 7, though the applicant (Cardinal)
has not yet purchased the property. He was unsure as to the
status of Lot 2.
February 4, 1986 Page 10
Mr. Bowerman recalled that the buffering between this
property and the Berkeley lots had been an important issue
at the time of the original subdivision. He indicated he
was concerned that the screening problems still have not
been resolved even though several applications have already
been reviewed. He stated he was concerned because the
safeguards which the Commission felt were adequate in
relation to allowing commercial next to residential
development apparently have not worked. He stated the
Commission keeps hearing about "what's going to be done
instead of what has been done." He emphasized that the
original intent, with the original approval, was to
protect the Berkeley property owners. He stated that
"clearly has not happened."
Ms. Diehl asked the following question of Mr. Payne: "Have
we not, on at least one occasion, conditioned a permit before
us on the completion of conditions on a previous permit by
the same owner, making sure those previous conditions were
accomplished before the other one is valid?"
Mr. Payne responded, "I think I recall the instance you
are talking about; I don't remember whether that was
exactly the same context as this." He asked Ms. Diehl
what was her intent.
Ms. Diehl indicated she was in agreement with Mr. Bowerman,
i.e. she would like to see the screening issue resolved.
Mr. Horne stated he felt it was within the Commission's
power to put a direct condition on this special use approval,
i.e. that the screening be'bxtended down to commercial
lot No. 1 prior to issue of a certificate of occupancy, or
whatever."
Mr. Payne pointed out that this is a little different
problem in that "you are wanting to deal with a problem
that really relates much more directly to this development."
Mr. Bowerman stated he felt it was all "part and parcel" of the
same thing and though some of the property has been sold off,
it goes back to the original approval.
Mr. Payne responded, "It's really a little more intimately
related to this than that, because the road that serves this
property is one of the things that you want to screen. If
there's no traffic generated on that road, then it doesn't
matter if you screen it or not. This development will generate
traffic, which causes the problem. That being the case, I
think you have a direct relationship between this problem
that you're seeking to address in this permit."
Mr. Gould indicated he agreed with Mr. Bowerman and Ms. Diehl. *40
February 4, 1986 Page 11
The Chairman invited applicant comment.
Mr. J.R. Copper, land surveyor representing Cardinal Industries,
addressed the Commission. His comments included the following:
--The applicant has already taken into consideration
the items that have been discussed along lots 6 and 7,
as shown on the applicant's proposal.
--The "rendering" of the proposal shows the screening
along the lot line.
--Landscaping is very important to the applicant and is
a critical part of their development scheme.
--It was his understanding that the screening problems
are being addressed by the present owners of the property.
Mr. McClure, attorney for Ms. Mary Brown (owner of the property),
addressed the Commission. He stated he had met with two of
the property owners at the time of the original subdivision
approval and it was agreed that the applicant would provide
screening. Regarding the "foreign soil" on the Ragland
property, he stated that had occurred with the construction
of the road and the applicant has posted a $5,000 bond for
correction of that problem. He added that $97,500 (of an
original $197,000 bond) is still posted with the county to
"cover these problems." Mr. McClure stated he had not
been present at the time the Premier site plan was before
the Commission and he had not been aware of the pressing
concern about screening. He stated that as soon as he had
become aware of the concern, he had met with landowners and
assured them that the planning would be done as soon as it
is determined if there is need for a slope easement or a
retaining wall. He emphasized that his client (Ms. Brown)
has every intention of providing the necessary screening.
Mr. McClure added that the current applicant had indicated
he would be agreeable to that being made a condition of his
site plan.
Mr. Ron Davis, representing Cardinal Industries, confirmed
that the applicant was willing to have the screening condition
on their site plan.
The Chairman invited public comment.
Mr. William West, owner of neighboring property Lot 17, addressed.
the Commission. His comments included the following:
--There exists a 25 foot ravine at the boundary of the
property; consequently the neighboring property lines
are approximately 4 feet down from the top of the bank.
--"The planning board's elevation, as agreed to by the
contractor who put the road in, do not properly specify
the grades, etc. that are actually out there."
The conditions that exist are hard to evaluate because
they are not of record.
--Several of the trees screening Lots 17, 18 and 19 are now
dying because they have been surrounded by fill dirt.
February 4, 1986
Page 12
--The road, as it currently exists, is poorly defined
and is within 20 feet of the line.
--The property owners involved have not had a forum to
exercise their frustrations in the last 3-5 years;
nothing has gotten done.
--He did not have time to prepare a presentation for
tonight's meeting because he has not been notified
of the last two meetings. (Mr. West is a surrounding,
but not adjoining, property owner.) He suggested
that at least until this issue is resolved, all
property owners involved should receive notification
of meetings and not just adjacent owners.
--The property owners want a screen that will be
effective now, not 10 years from now.
--An "integrated" plan is needed for the screening
since it was never intended that small trees
planted now would be sufficient since they will
not provide an effective screen for many years
to come.
Ms. Ragland addressed the Commission and indicated support
for Mr. West's comments. She added that she and her husband
are extremely concerned about the drainage problem since
it is causing excessive erosion.
In response to the drainage concerns, Mr. Copper stated, "We
aren't prepared tonight to submit or make recommendations
of specifics, but we do have to submit our final site plan
to the Engineering Department staff. Erosion control measures
will be taken; on -site detention, if required, will be provided."
He also indicated that the existing road which comes out of
the mobile home park, which may be causing a large part of the
drainage, will be eliminated and landscaping will be installed
and, if necessary, a berm may be put in to divert the drainage
back into this road. He stated he felt 90% of the water
from the property could be diverted across Rt. 29, via the
storm sewer. He stated he felt a lot of the conditions which
exist are "pre-existing" conditions.
Mr. Bill Leech, a representative of Cardinal, addressed the
Commission. He stated he had worked with adjoining property
owners and feels they are very supportive of the overall
proposal.
Mr. Leon Gorman, owner of Lot 18, addressed the Commission.
He stated he felt the road should not be widened since
any further widening of the road would not only reduce
the space available for planting necessary screening, but
would also kill existing trees.
There being no further public comment, the matter was placed
before the Commission.
February 4, 1986 Page 13
In response to Mr. Bowerman's question, Mr. Keeler confirmed
that staff supports a 24-foot pavement width rather than a
36-foot width.
Mr. Keeler asked Mr. Gorman and Mr. West, "In your opinion,
is there adequate area adjacent to the road now for two
staggered rows of trees?" Mr. West responded that, depending
on the curb and drain location, there was probably room on
lots 17 and 18 but not on lot 19. Ms. Ragland (owner of lot 19)
stated there was not enough room on her lot. Mr. Keeler
concluded that even if the roadway were reduced there still
might not be enough room.
Mr. McClure stated that the plan that was submitted to the
County Engineer shows enough space on lot 19.
Mr. Bowerman stated he felt the screening issue should be
resolved before anything further is done. Both Mr. Gould
and Mr. Stark indicated agreement. Mr. Bowerman indicated
he was in favor of deferral.
Mr. Bowerman explained that if the item is deferred, it
goes no further until it has been re -heard by the Commission.
It was determined there is no 60-day time requirement on
special use permits.
Mr. Bowerman stated that "within the limitations that staff
would put on it, any resolution that the property owner,
the applicant and the adjacent property owners can agree to
is acceptable to me."
Ms. Diehl asked if this would give the Commission more
leverage than postponing approval at the site plan stage.
Mr. Bowerman indicated he was in favor of whichever way
would insure the best control over getting the issue
settled.
Mr. Cogan asked Mr. Payne if it were possible to approve
the special use permit with a condition that would say
that the site plan will not be considered until this
issue has been resolved.
Mr. Payne responded, "You can't say that literally; no."
Mr. Cogan agreed that the screening issue was a problem
that should be taken care of; however, he stated he felt
the applicant's proposed use was much preferred over
possible more intense uses. He felt the Commission's
desires relating to the screening and drainage issue were
clear," i.e. that the matter better be resolved before
the site plan comes in.
"loud and
February 4, 1986
Page 14
Ms. Diehl indicated she was not comfortable with deferral
because it was penalizing the current applicant for a
problem that they did not originate.
Mr. Cogan agreed.
Mr. Michel agreed also and stated this was really Ms. Brown's
problem.
Mr. Cogan pointed out that the applicant even offered to
condition his approval on the screening being done on
the properties that are not even connected with his
application.
Mr. Gould stated he felt the motivation was there and thus
he was in favor of deferral.
Mr. Horne assured the Commission that if staff were given
approval of the site plan, they would not sign a site plan
until the issue was completely resolved. Likewise, if the
Commission wishes to see the site plan, staff will not
schedule it for Commission review until the issue has
been resolved.
Mr. Cogan indicated he was concerned that deferral might
invite the applicant to withdraw his application and thus
some other much more intensive use might be proposed for
the property.
Mr. Michel indicated he was in agreement with Mr. Cogan
and, based on Mr. Horne's statement, he felt this could
be dealt with at the site plan stage.
Based on the applicant's willingness to have the approval
conditioned on the issue being resolved, the following
change in staff's condition No. 1 was suggested by Mr.
Keeler:
Staff approval of site plan to include a
staggered double row of 5'-6' white pines planted
10 feet on centers along the Berkeley boundary
from the western corner of Berkeley Lot 24 to the
eastern corner of Berkeley Lot 17. In his review
of the site plan, the County Engineer shall be
particularly mindful of drainage from the motel
site to Berkeley subdivision.
It was determined the Commission wished to see the site plan,
thus the first part of Mr. Keeler's suggested condition
was changed to read "Site plan approval to include a ...."
February 4, 1986 Page 15
Mr. Cogan moved that SP-85-91 for Cardinal Industries be
recommended to the Board of Supervisors for approval subject
to the following conditions:
1. Site plan approval to include staggered double row
of 5'-6' white pines planted 10 feet on center
along the Berkeley boundary from the western corner
of Berkeley Lot 24 to the eastern corner of Berkeley
Lot 17. In his review of the site plan, the County
Engineer shall be particularly mindful of drainage
from the motel site to Berkeley subdivision.
2. Compliance with Section 5.1.16 of the Zoning Ordinance
for the swimming pool.
Ms. Diehl seconded the motion.
Mr. Horne confirmed that the site plan was to be reviewed by
the Commission and that it would not be scheduled for the
agenda until screening and drainage issues have been resolved.
The motion for approval passed unanimously.
The matter was to be heard by the Board on February 19, 1986.
The meeting recessed at 8:55; reconvened at 9:10
SP-85-93 Brass, Inc. - Request in accordance with Section
10.2.2(22) of the Albemarle County Zoning Ordinance to allow for
the continued operation of a non -conforming commercial use for
a general store at the Keene Market building. Zoned RA, Rural
Areas. Property, described as Tax Map 121, parcel 91, is located
at the northwest quadrant of the intersections of State Route
20, 712, and 715 at Keene. Scottsville Magisterial District.
Mr. Keeler gave the staff report.
The Chairman invited applicant comment.
Mr. James Murray, Jr. addressed the Commission. He explained
that issuance of the special use permit would allow him to
exercise more control over the activities for the property
since he would not be forced into allowing odd uses
just to maintain the non -conforming use to keep the value
of the property.
There being no public comment, the matter was placed before
the Commission.
Ms. Diehl asked for an explanation of the Health Department
approval of the septic system. She was concerned because
she was under the impression the septic system had not been
in use for some time.
February 4, 1986
Page 16
Mr. Murray explained the septic system has been in constant
use and has never had any problems. He further indicated
if an intensive use were ever contemplated for the property
the septic system would probably be discontinued and the
issue could be dealt with at that time, with the approval
of a site plan.
Mr. Michel moved that SP-85-93 for Brass, Inc. be recommended
to the Board of Supervisors for approval subject to the
following conditions:
1. Country store approval is for the ground floor of
the existing Keene market building. The second
floor may be used for accessory uses to the country
store including storage but shall not be open to
the general public. The second floor may be used
for a dwelling in accordance with Section 5.1.21
of the Zoning Ordinance:
2. Virginia Department of Highways and Transportation
approval of access and staff approval of parking
in accordance with Virginia Department of Highways
and Transportation comments of January 17, 1986;
3. Should gasoline pumps be installed the same will require
staff approval of circulation/access and Fire Official
approval.
Mr. Stark seconded the motion which passed unanimously.
The matter was scheduled to be heard by the Board of Supervisors
on February 19, 1986.
Note: Since the applicant for SP-85-92 (Tapscott) was not present,
the Commission moved on to the next agenda item.
ZMA-85-34 Crutchfield and SP-85-97 Crutchfield - Request to
rezone a vacant 13.25 acre parcel from RA, Rural Areas to LI,
Light Industry. SP-85-97 - Request in accordance with Section
27.2.2.5 of the Albemarle County Zoning Ordinance to allow for
a warehouse on a vacant 7.61 acre parcel. Property, described
as Tax Map 32, parts of parcels 9C and 10, is located on the
east side of Rt. 606 near the northern end of the Charlottesville/
Albemarle Airport runway. Rivanna Magisterial District.
Mr. Keeler gave the staff report. Staff's report included
the following statement: "During review, staff advised
the applicant that a conventional rezoning would not meet all
criteria set forth in the statement of the intent of the LI
district and the Industrial Land Use Standards of the Comprehen-
sive plan. To overcome these issues the applicant has proffered
limitation of uses as follows: 1. Warehousing; 2. Mail order
operations." The report stated further: "Staff opinion is
that the applicant's proffers overcome negative aspects of the
rezoning. Staff recommends approval of ZMA-85-34 with acceptance
February 4, 1986
Page 17
of the applicant's proffer. Staff recommends approval of
SP-85-97 with no conditions."
Mr. Keeler's report stated that under the applicant's proffer,
sewer demand would involve only domestic waste as opposed
to industrial waste. He also stated that the Highway
Department had commented that they had no problem with
the request since the use would involve low range traffic
generation.
Ms. Diehl pointed out that the limitation of domestic waste
only was not specifically stated in the applicant's proffer.
Mr. Keeler explained that he had viewed this as basically
an electronics warehouse which doesn't have any industrial
waste generation.
Ms. Diehl stated she was in favor of this being spelled out
in the proffer.
The Chairman invited applicant comment.
Mr. Crutchfield addressed the Commission. He indicated he
would have no problem with addressing Ms. Diehl's concerns
in his proffer.
The Chairman explained that, if the applicant so chooses,
he can make this change before the matter goes before the
Board.
It was determined this is a mail order operation and the
primary traffic generated is delivery trucks. Mr. Crutchfield
explained there is no plan to expand the retail operation.
He added that the long-range plan for the company is to
move it closer to town. He explained that the the new
building will involve a "relocation of present resources."
Mr. Bowerman indicated he was unsure how to address the
concern about the restriction on waste materials. Mr.
Keeler suggested that a condition could be placed on
the special use permit as follows: No industrial
waste generation from the site.
Mr. Michel moved that ZMA-85-34 for Crutchfield be recommended
to the Board of Supervisors for approval subject to the
applicant's proffer.
Mr. Stark seconded the motion which passed unanimously.
Regarding SP-85-97, Mr. Horne suggested that Mr. Keeler's
suggested condition be changed to read: Domestic strength sewage
waste only shall be generated from the site.
/?y
February 4, 1986 Page 18
He explained that sometimes it is difficult to define industrial
waste.
It was determined this would be attached to the special permit.
Mr. Cogan moved that SP-85-97 be recommended to the Board of
Supervisors for approval subject to the following condition:
1. Domestic strength sewage waste only shall be
generated from the site.
Mr. Michel seconded the motion which passed unanimously.
Both these items were scheduled to be heard by the Board on
February 19, 1986.
SP-85-92 Harvey Hill & Barbara Tapscott - Request in accordance
with Section 10.2.2(22) of the Albemarle County Zoning Ordinance
to allow for a country store on 6+ acres, existing use as a
single family residence. Zoned RA, Rural Areas. Property,
described as Tax Map 135, parcel 15B, is located on the
south side of St. Rt. 726 approximately 1/2 mile east of the
intersection with Rt. 627 near Warren. Scottsville
Magisterial District.
It was determined the applicant was not present at the meeting.
Ms. Diehl moved that the item be deferred until February 11, 1986.
Mr. Michel seconded the motion. (Note: No vote was called for
on this motion.)
Mr. Cogan moved that SP-85-92 for Harvey and Barbara Tapscott
be deferred until February 11, 1986.
Mr. Michel seconded the motion which passed unanimously.
Meeting with Board - Mr. Bowerman presented an agenda for this
meeting, scheduled for February 5, 4:00 p.m. Items to be
discussed included: Commission's Role in the Six -Year Road Plan;
Criteria for Southern Regional Park; Special Use Permit Activity
in Rural Areas; and Commission's Annual Report.
Annual Report - The following changes were noted:
--Mr. Bowerman is to be referred to as "Chairman" rather
than "Chairperson."
--A sentence was missing at the bottom of page 1.
--The word "committee" in the last sentence of the
report should be changed to "Commission."
--The word "implemenation" in the next to last paragraph
of the report was misspelled.
--Add a "general" statement about Commission's involvement in
various other committees.
MPO- Staff was asked to look into the possibility of the Commission
being represented on the MPO.
February 4, 1986
Page 19
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:35
p.m.
ohn Horne, S cretary
DS