HomeMy WebLinkAbout11 28 2006 PC MinutesAlbemarle County Planning Commission
November 28, 2006
The Albemarle County Planning Commission held a meeting and a public hearing on
Tuesday, November 28, 2006, at 6:00 p.m., at the County Office Building, Second
Floor, Auditorium, Second Floor, 401 McIntire Road, Charlottesville, Virginia. Members
attending were Eric Strucko, Jon Cannon, Duane Zobrist, Pete Craddock, Marcia
Joseph, Chairman and Bill Edgerton. Absent was Calvin Morris, Vice -Chairman. Julia
Monteith, Senior Land Use Planner for the University of Virginia, representative for
David J. Neuman, FAIA, Architect for University of Virginia was present.
Other officials present were Wayne Cilimberg, Planning Director; David Benish, Chief of
Planning; Bill Fritz, Chief of Current Development; Scott Clark, Senior Planner; Rebecca
Ragsdale, Senior Planner; David E. Pennock, Principal Planner and Greg Kamptner,
Deputy County Attorney.
Call to Order and Establish Quorum:
Ms. Joseph called the regular meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. and established a quorum.
Other Matters Not Listed on the Agenda from the Public:
Ms. Joseph invited comment from the public on other matters not listed on the agenda.
There being none, the meeting moved on to the next item.
Mr. Cannon arrived at 6:05 p.m.
Regular Items:
SDP 2006-087 Town Center Two at UVA Research Park — Site Plan Waiver:
Request for a lighting waiver in association with the construction of previously approved
83,000 gross square foot office building on 33.260 acres zoned PD-IP (Planned
Development Industrial Park) and AIA (Airport Impact Area). This waiver would allow
the use of a light fixture that does not meet the definition of "full cut-off'. The property,
described as Tax Map 32 - Parcel 6A is located in the Rio Magisterial District on the
south side of Lewis and Clark Drive approximately 1/2 miles west of the intersection
with U.S. Route 29. The Comprehensive Plan designates this property as Industrial
Service in the Hollymead Community. (David Pennock)
Mr. Pennock presented a power point presentation and summarized the staff report.
Request for waiver of Sec. 4.17, Outdoor Lighting in order to allow a light that is
not a "full cut-off luminaire" Staff has reviewed this request with consideration for
the required criteria. The review has resulted in mixed findings for and against
approval of the waiver:
``iftw Factors favorable to approval:
1. This waiver will allow a more uniform "theme" for the lighting for the overall
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006
area of this project.
,; Factors unfavorable to approval:
1. The light fixture does not meet the definition of "full cutoff luminaire".
• The approval of the request would allow the applicant to continue a theme that
they have established so far with the buildings out there. The other option would
be for the applicant to go back and retrofit the existing lights. It would probably
actually not result in those lights being conforming either. So there is really no
way to adjust what is out there.
• Generally staff finds that this request is inconsistent with the criteria of Section
4.17.5 for granting a modification. Therefore, staff is not able to recommend
approval to the Commission of a modification of Section 4.17.4.
Ms. Joseph asked if there were any questions for staff.
Mr. Edgerton asked if these lights were committed to under the site plan approval and
now they want to change their mind on that.
Mr. Pennock replied that was correct.
Mr. Craddock asked if the proposal was limited to this section only or was it applicable
to future sections of the development.
Mr. Pennock replied that if this light is approved there is a chance that it will be used in
future sections as well. But, this request is for section 2 only.
Mr. Cannon asked if there was a natural difference not only in design but in effect in
terms of the amount of reflective light that comes off or enters into the ambient.
Mr. Pennock said that if he understands his question correctly was he asking what
percentage of light is actually affected upwards.
Mr. Cannon explained that he was really trying to get at the affect of difference in the
impact on the light environment.
Mr. Pennock replied that it depends on a number of factors including how high the light
is and what other possible screening, landscaping and things like that could be around.
Margaret Maliszewski has spoken with lighting manufacturers about similar lights. He
was able to download some information form this manufacturer. The actual percentage
of light reflected up could be anywhere from fractions of a percent to somewhere in the
neighborhood of 2 to 3 percent of the actual light. As far as what that translates to in
luminaire and that sort of thing he did not have definitive answer, but there will be some
greater than 0 percentage basically. Full cut off means that there is not light above the
horizontal plane.
There being no further questions, Ms. Joseph opened the public hearing invited the
applicant to address the Commission.
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006
*,,. Fred Missel, Director of Design and Development for UVA Foundation, said that the
parking areas are actually currently covered by the typical shoebox fixtures. That is all
of the areas behind the central axis of the town center. The central axis of the town
center and several or two or three at each building have ornamental fixtures, which is
what they are calling these. They basically run down the central access of the town
center and the side of the buildings, but do not cover the parking areas. Our request
today is just a matter of consistency. As you walk through this town center eventually
there will be seven buildings total and they want the lights and fixtures to look the same
so that the town center reads more consistently. His first preference would for the
Commission to allow these fixtures to be used uniformly throughout the town center.
Ms. Joseph invited public comment. There being none, the public hearing was closed
and the matter placed before the Commission.
Mr. Edgerton agreed with staff's judgment on this. He did not think that the Commission
would grant this exception to anybody else. As far as setting a standard he felt that they
should stick to it. It would be sending a very wrong signal to the rest of the community if
they said if they had an aesthetic issue that they would work with them on it because
that is not going to solve the lighting problem. Light pollution is a real issue. It is one
that our ordinance tries to address. He felt that they should stick to the ordinance
requirements on this.
Motion: Mr. Zobrist moved, Mr. Cannon seconded, to deny the applicant's request for
SDP-2006-087, Town Center Two at UVA Research Park — Site Plan Waiver.
The motion passed by a vote of 6:0. (Commissioner Morris was absent.)
Ms. Joseph stated that SDP-2006-087, Town Center Two at UVA Research Park — Site
Plan Waiver was denied.
Public Hearing:
SP 2006-020 First Christian Church (Signs #74, 77)
PROPOSED: New church on 15-acre parcel with seating for 306 persons, rooms for
youth/community events, church office, and outdoor pavilions for church activities.
ZONING CATEGORY/GENERAL USAGE: RA -- Rural Areas: agricultural, forestal, and
fishery uses; residential density (0.5 unit/acre); EC Entrance Corridor - Overlay to
protect properties of historic, architectural or cultural significance from visual impacts of
development along routes of tourist access
SECTION: 10.2.2.35 Church building and adjunct cemetery.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE/DENSITY: Rural Areas - preserve and protect
agricultural, forestal, open space, and natural, historic and scenic resources/ density (.5
unit/ acre)
ENTRANCE CORRIDOR: Yes
LOCATION: Northeast corner of Richmond Road (US 250) and Keswick Road (Route
731).
TAX MAP/PARCEL: 79-24A
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 3
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT: Scottsville
STAFF: Scott Clark
Mr. Clark summarized the staff report.
Scott Clark presented a power point presentation and summarized the staff report.
o Staff has identified the following factors favorable to this application:
• VDOT and the County Engineer are satisfied that the entrance
design is adequate to accommodate the traffic generated by the
proposal.
• A church on this parcel would provide a community meeting place
and opportunities for residents to take part in local community life.
o Staff has identified the following factors unfavorable to this application:
• Construction of the church would require clearing of parts of this
wooded site. Recommended conditions are intended to reduce the
visual and environmental impacts of this clearing by controlling its
extent and location.
o One small detail mentioned in the staff report is that in September this
project went before the Architectural Review Board because it is in the
Entrance Corridor. The ARB basically approved the layout as proposed
with a couple of small changes. One was to clarify the location of the non -
disturbance area and that has been done. There was an area shown on
the plan for the septic fields for the use. That was shown on the earlier
plan when the building was in a different location. Staff realized that the
septic fields could not be located in the non -disturbance area. So in order
to resolve the conflict the applicant has revised the boundary of the non -
disturbance area to the west in order to have options for the septic field in
order to be an acceptable distance from the existing well. He discussed
this with the Design Planner and the visibility of the building will not change
greatly. But, because the line has moved there may be some additional
consideration on the actual design of the building. When this comes back
for a site plan there will be a more detailed review by the ARB at that point.
o Staff recommends approval of the request subject to the nine conditions
recommended in the staff report.
Ms. Joseph asked if there were any questions for staff.
Mr. Edgerton asked if there was public water and sewer available in this area.
Mr. Clark replied that public sewer was not available in this area.
Mr. Craddock noted that only public water was available.
Mr. Edgerton said that he had questions on two of the conditions. It says all parking
setbacks, undisturbed buffers required by the zoning ordinance section 21.7,
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 4
minimum yard requirements, shall apply if this use is developed. He asked staff to
explain what that says.
Mr. Clark replied that the setbacks to the eastern edge of the property shall be 20'
and along the edge of Keswick Road and Route 250 technically will be 10. Actually
what is shown on the plan is more restricted and the locations are farther in than
those setbacks. This is just to ensure that it is clear during the development of the
site plan that the scope or general accord of the plan is not to include variations
beyond that point.
Mr. Edgerton said that condition #7 says that the prescriptive right-of-way along this
parcel on Keswick Road shall be replaced with a public right-of-way at least 25' wide.
He asked staff to show him that area.
Mr. Clark pointed out the area in the entire frontage along Keswick Road, which is the
northern boundary of the property.
Mr. Edgerton asked if that was just to widen the right-of-way there.
Mr. Scott replied that was correct in order to address the concerns in the vehicular plan
to widen that road.
There being no further questions for staff, Ms. Joseph opened the public hearing and
invited the applicant to address the Commission.
Barry Creasy, a member of First Christian Church, said that he was a member of the
team working on the church relocation. He noted that Mr. Clark has more than
adequately covered the actual site. Under #2 of the favorable factors is the
community's advantage of a church in this particular location. .The area around it has
many houses and a lot of subdivisions. Churches do add a community value as far a
being there. This request has been labeled as a new church, but the church is definitely
not a new church. Currently they are located in Charlottesville, Virginia at 112 West
Market Street. The church has been in existence for 170 years. They are seeking to
move the church because they are out of parking. All of the development downtown
has cut them off from being able to park cars on Sunday mornings. Therefore, they are
looking to move this church. They have a track record of being a very community
friendly church. They have done many things in Charlottesville from running soup
kitchens to doing plays for the community. Their activities may change on Route 250,
but they still plan to be active in that community also by opening up the church to be
used for various community activities.
Ms. Joseph asked if there were any questions for Mr. Creasy.
Mr. Craddock asked if they had sold the old church, and Mr. Creasy replied that they
have a contract pending.
Ms. Joseph invited public comment. There being none, the public hearing was closed
and the matter before the Commission.
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 5
Motion: Mr. Zobrist moved, Mr. Edgerton seconded, to approve SP-2006-020, First
Christian Church, subject to staff's recommended conditions:
1) The church's improvements and the scale and location of the improvements
shall be developed in general accord with the conceptual plan entitled "First
Christian Church," prepared by McKee Carson, and dated 11-14-2006.
2) The area of assembly shall be limited to a maximum 306-seat sanctuary.
3) No grading or tree removal shall take place within the area marked "area not
to be disturbed" on the conceptual plan or within the 75-foot setback
adjacent to Route 250 East.
4) No erosion and sedimentation control plan nor building permit shall be
approved for the area marked "area not to be disturbed" without prior
approval of a tree conservation plan complying with section 32.7.9.4 of the
Zoning Ordinance.
5) All parking setbacks and undisturbed buffers required by Zoning Ordinance
section 21.7, Minimum Yard Requirements, shall apply if this use is
developed.
6) All outdoor lighting shall be arranged or shielded to reflect light away from
the abutting properties.
7) The existing prescriptive right-of-way along this parcel's Keswick Road (Rte.
731) frontage shall be replaced with a public right-of-way at least 25 ft wide
and dedicated to public use.
8) There shall be no day care center or private school on site without approval
of a separate special use permit;
9) If the use, structure, or activity for which this special use permit is issued is
not commenced within sixty (60) months after the permit is issued, the permit
shall be deemed abandoned and the authority granted thereunder shall
thereupon terminate.
The motion passed by a vote of 6:0. (Commissioner Morris was absent.)
Ms. Joseph stated that SP-2006-020, First Christian Church will go to the Board of
Supervisors on January 10, 2007 with a recommendation for approval.
Work Sessions:
CPA 2004-02 Pantops Master Plan: This is the third of three work sessions scheduled
to review the draft Pantops Master Plan and will focus on Design Principles, Community
Facilities & Service, and Implementation sections of the draft Master Plan. (Rebecca
Ragsdale)
In summary, the Planning Commission held the third work session on CPA-2004-002,
Pantops Master Plan. Ms. Ragsdale and Mr. Benish presented power point presentation
and summarized the staff report.
• The first was held on November 7 and the second on November 21 to discuss
the draft chapters of the Pantops Master Plan. On November 7 they moved
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006
through the introduction and background, vision and guiding principles and a
portion of the place types and land use chapter of the document.
• Last week they wrapped up the land use and place types discussion with the
Commission noting that they needed to clarify the Rivanna River Corridor
Overlay designation a little bit. They also moved through the green infrastructure
and transportation chapters of the document.
• This evening staff wants to review a section that they have added to the green
infrastructure chapter of the document, design principles, community facilities
and services and talk about a bit about where they are with implementation and
the implementation the priority areas map that staff has provided.
• As they have done previously, staff would like to move through after giving a brief
overview of the chapters page by page so that they could get the Commission's
comments and feedback on what they have provided.
• Staff added to the green infrastructure section, which begins on page 29. They
added water resources and storm water management. That was something that
they had in the design principles chapter, but felt that it should be moved up to
the green infrastructure chapter. Basically, that refers to the 2004 Stream
Assessment Data, which has perennial and intermittent streams mapped. This is
recommending additional protection for the intermittent streams.
• The other recommendation that was added is that when properties that are
already covered in impervious surfaces redevelop in Pantops, such as the
Pantops Shopping Center, that they improve and meet current regulations for
storm water management if they were developed under old ordinances or
predate storm water management ordinance they may not have to make an
improvement, but they could not make storm water conditions worse. So this is
recommending that those areas be improved when they redevelop. It refers to a
certain section in the Water Protection Ordinance. It is not saying that existing
language will be used, but that section could be modified and there is a category
called areas of infill and redevelopment. That section of the ordinance could be
added to so that these recommendations could also apply to by right
development. Those are recommendations for legislation actions, waivers and
things you have discretion over in advance of the Water Protection Ordinance
being amended. She hoped that clarified that section.
• The green infrastructure map shows some of those streams, both intermittent
and perennial, and has recommendations as well for trails and enhancements.
This is just adding to that. Staff asked if there were any additional comments on
that chapter or the new section.
• Ms. Joseph felt the additions were clear, but suggested some tweaking of
the words to say that it is understood that the expectations are that the
ordinance language may change as a result of this.
• Mr. Cannon asked if this contemplates a capital program for acquisition of
open space that is not now public.
Ms. Ragsdale replied that staff has on the green infrastructure map identified the areas
they talked about last week for future parks. So when staff brings them the
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 7
implementation section that is when they would talk about what they would recommend
for the capital improvements program funding.
Mr. Cannon replied that staffs general contemplation at this point is that
there will be a capital program that would be designed to implement and
facilitate achieving the plan.
Mr. Benish replied that one of the tools for that in the implementation plan would be
funding for capital improvements. The focus of those right now will be the Rivanna
Greenway and hopefully the park that is on State Farm Boulevard, which is one that is
subject to some concern with the Parks and Recreation Department on whether that
should be public or privately developed and available to that area as open space. The
trail systems connecting neighborhoods would probably be private initiative, but may be
with some local monies.
Mr. Cannon said there is an initiative being a foundation or some other
interested group or neighborhood association.
Mr. Benish added that it could be through neighborhood associations or through
development proposals or redevelopment proposals.
• Mr. Edgerton noted that on page 2, the second to last paragraph says that it
is not necessary that the entire greenway system be dedicated to the
County and maintained for public access. It goes on and gives some
possible variations. He asked if this paragraph is necessary and secondly,
are we kind of working against ourselves here. The idea of having the
green infrastructure would be to serve the community and the public. If
they start giving exceptions in the language of the Master Plan it is going to
set up a confusing dynamic. He realized that there was a budgetary
concern about taking this on, but at the very least he would hope that
anything that would be included in the green infrastructure, regardless of
who maintained it or whether it was proffered as part of a rezoning, he
would like to hope that it would be available for the public's benefit and use
even if it was privately maintained or maintained by a homeowner's
association. He felt that it seemed criminal to have gaps in the
infrastructure plan that would be considered private property and regulated
as such and to destroy the linkages, which he was hopeful that this Master
Plan would develop over time.
Mr. Benish replied that staff is sensitive to his concern. There is a perception of what is
public and what is publicly owned to develop. Some of their language is being
cautionary as to the expectation of what public investment and county investment can
do as opposed to as a result of various tools can be in the public realm for use, such as
the Peter Jefferson Place sort of circle is going to be privately owned, but it is going to
be accessible to the general public. Staff will work on that language to make sure that
they are not sending an inconsistent message.
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 8
o Mr. Edgerton said that the green infrastructure is to support the whole
,,: Master Plan and the community that is going to live and work in this area.
He would like to make sure that they don't put language in that is going to
give an out for that.
Mr. Zobrist noted that it does not necessarily mean public access. He
asked if that was what he was trying to say. Obviously, they don't want to
get a principle in the document that somehow requires the County to
address how to acquire rights. He agreed with Mr. Edgerton that the
County trails were very important, but he also felt that lots of open space
was important also even if it was privately owned.
• Mr. Cannon suggested as they go through this that they can make choices
about what is fee ownership, which he felt was appropriate for trails and so
forth, and then maybe there were bordering areas that they want kept in the
natural state, but it is not necessary for the purposes of the infrastructure
program to have the public actually have access to those. Those could be
protected by easement, which itself is a property interest, but not that a
property interest that allows the public to go on the land. They could get
what they want minimizing cost and assuring that what is necessary to be
in fee ownership in the name of the public is there and what is where lesser
interest may be appropriate and adequate to get those so that they stretch
their money further and get more for their public expenditures.
Mr. Benish said that he realized that from last week with the implementation plan. The
plan is focused on certain areas, but leaves some of the green areas gray.
Mr. Edgerton suggested that possibly they might need two different colors.
Mr. Benish noted that for example there were floodplain and critical slope areas along
1-64 in the Peter Jefferson Place that are recognized because that plan shows it as
open space areas. The way that development works it is generally available to the
residents and tenants of that area and he did not think there was any intent to have
passes or gates. So it is generally available to the public. But, there is not expectation
that the County is willing to other than enforce those regulations through that rezoning
requirement do anything else there. There is no distinction on this color from the other
public spaces that they do expect to have developed as public land. That is part of the
dialogue that staff is having with the Parks and Recreation Department. Staff will work
on that some more.
The discussion moved to the next chapter on design principles.
• This is what staff had under the heading last time when they brought the public
input tables and recommendations of character and aesthetics. It was under that
heading previously. But, now it is under design principles.
This chapter is where staff addresses view shed protection both from Monticello
and important views from other vantage points, such as the City of Charlottesville
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 9
and also has the recommendations for the Entrance Corridors, Routes 20 and
250 in terms of urban versus rural character and transitioning into the
development areas. On the framework map there are some buffer areas shown
along the roadways.
• This chapter also discusses the concept of what green buildings and principles
are. In Pantops it emphasizes certain Neighborhood Model principles, such as
site planning that respects terrain. That is so important in Pantops given the
topography. Also, to make sure that they don't leave anything gray, they include
language in there that address what sort of edge treatments on the edge of the
Pantops development area are expected on the fringes.
• Staff presented an illustration to show what staff is talking about with the
Neighborhood Model Principle redevelopment infill with buildings closer to the
road, a central green and establishing a block pattern. This is from the
Neighborhood Model adding mixed use with apartments above. It is just
emphasizing that principle, which may be applicable to Route 250. This is from
last time of an example of a very current redevelopment project on the Old
Moore's site, which was rezoned to the Neighborhood Model District that
illustrates some of those principles.
• Staff is gong to be sharing these draft recommendations for the Master Plan with
the Architectural Review Board. They would like to be informed of the Master
Plan as they move forward to review the recommendations. The ARB will
receive that information on December 4.
Staff asked for comments from the Commission on the design principles.
• Ms. Joseph said that on page 6 in the discussion of view shed protection, it
was suggested that the language talk more about Monticello and the fact
that it is important for local economics because of tourism. That is also
covered in the beginning of the chapter.
Staff indicated that they would add the why and the justification.
• Ms. Joseph said that on page 7 in the discussion of Entrance Corridors on
Route 250 east it says that they want street trees location within the right-
of-way. Is this something that will be difficult with VDOT or is it something
that they have come around? Also, where the 8' sidewalk came from.
Mr. Benish replied that it was difficult, but they have had better opportunities to do that.
He felt that it was something that staff would like to strive for in the plan. He replied that
8' was a minimum width for multi -modes bike and pedestrian. That is the minimum that
VDOT will accept for a facility that can accommodate bicycles and pedestrians.
• Ms. Joseph said that on page 8, there is gateway, underground utilities and
signs. She questioned if staff wanted to do anything with lighting. She
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 10
asked if there would be street lights out there at some point in time or
whether that is just incidental.
Ms. Ragsdale replied that staff does mention lighting as far as County regulations with
regard to the view shed and then in the transportation section they have mentioned the
need to take a look at street lighting and see if there was a need for it. So it is
something that is considered. Staff could add that as far as uniform design guidelines
for the corridor section.
• Ms. Joseph said that on page 9, it talks about site planning that respects
the terrain and are limiting the size of retaining walls. The question was
raised on how they were justifying that. Is it because of the visual impact?
It was noted that 12' retaining walls had come in on Luxor. Was it a
reaction to that sort of thing?
Mr. Benish replied that it was in part and may be to take the opportunity to do more
terracing that would create shorter spans that could be terraced and landscaped within
the terrace to treat the same or similar grading. Obviously, there is more impact when
someone has to terrace multiple small walls. In part it is that was one of the big
concerns that staff heard from the community about the radical change and lack of
respect of the terrain. While it is an urban area they want to consider density, but they
want to try limiting it the best that they can.
• Ms. Monteith felt that one of the concerns would be what is already there.
That is retroactive planning, which is always a challenge. It seems that
there could be planting that could be included in that, which would mitigate
that. Staff has spoken about green roofs, but it is unlikely that green roofs
will go up on existing buildings. Although, the County has provided a great
example that can happen. If there could be more thought both in terms of
long term view shed and immediate kind of Entrance Corridor perception or
taking up grade on buildings where there are retaining walls with some
additional language about screening without getting into real specifics of
species or deciduous versus non -deciduous or height might be helpful.
• Regarding green development, Mr. Edgerton felt that it was a great start,
but he would like to get more specific suggestions in there if possible.
Particularly suggestions about opportunities to deal with storm water run
off, such as rain gardens and paving that could be integrated with the
grading section. If they are going to try to encourage folks to terrace, as
described on page 9, retaining walls used should be 4' to 5' tall and
terraced, that as previously suggested some of the planting could be
included in that and some rain gardens could be included in that, which
would contribute significantly to opportunities to protect the ground water.
He suggested that they include a stronger statement about more specifics
in the Comp Plan. This should make a reference to it to get people to start
thinking about it. They should not miss the opportunity to educate as
much as possible on this in the Master Plan.
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 11
• Ms. Joseph suggested that language could be included when they are day
lighting or keeping streams channels above ground they could actually use
those as examples to have interpretative signage. That is very specific.
But, in the case of this they could make mention of the fact that these
sustainability features could be used as educational opportunities for the
community, also.
Ms. Ragsdale noted that she had mentioned the boundaries with the rural area, but did
not explain exactly what they meant by that. Staff wanted to make sure that if
properties came in for development on the edges that there was not an expectation in
the yellow areas that there will be an additional buffer on the edges. Most of it is either
designated as green or neighborhood density residential on the fringes. In terms of its
location with the transect, they will expect the lower end of the density ranges
recommended. So they are not having any additional buffer or any sort of
recommendation. Staff wanted to make sure that they covered those areas as well in
the plan. So that is what they meant with that section. The proposed density for the
yellow is 3 to 6 dwelling units per acre.
Ms. Ragsdale said that the Commission would move on to review the Community
Facilities and Services section.
• Based on where Pantops is located, its size and its vicinity to other service
providers, the need for services is based on the long range service standards for
the different entities. The public has expressed the need of a library and postal
services. Staff has recommended continued monitoring and discussion with
those service providers, such the Post Office and the Jefferson Madison
Regional Library, so that they could get those facilities in Pantops as soon as
they are warranted or needed. The one public facility that is planned is the fire
station. As far as the other public facilities, the parks they talked about are in
green infrastructure. This is really responding for those needs for services and
then addressing business development facilitator expectations.
• The residents in Pantops also noted the need for certain kinds of businesses. As
they go through the Master Plan they are taking a look at the jobs, housing
balance to see what the needs are in each development area. So that is what
that is referring to. Staff has established an implementation map with priority
areas. In the text staff recommends that any new facilities or services be
concentrated or relocated in those service areas identified geographically with
the colors. The colors do not denote priority at this point. This is also going to
act as the transportation map. Then when staff brings the implementation plan
they will be referring to this map. For instance, in the text they would recommend
the fire station in the State Farm Boulevard area. Then they have identified
Route 250, this concentration of residential development, Route 20 to Riverbend
as the four priority areas for implementation going forward.
Mr. Benish added that the linear ones are reflective of corridor transportation
improvements. The areas of bubbles are where most of the improvements. State Farm
and the area to the north is where staff sees most of the development that has been
approved taking place. Martha Jefferson Hospital relocation will be a major reason to
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 12
cm
focus in on the State Farm Boulevard area. The implementation plan also refers to the
stream corridor, the Rivanna River crossing, which is a unique improvement that is a
high priority in terms of scheduling to try to get constructed. This map guides them to
the table. Hopefully, they will do the table in a way that is reflective of the priority areas.
Mr. Craddock asked about the road at Aunt Sarah's being aligned with State Farm
Boulevard. He believed that there was an empty lot between Aunt Sarah's and social
security. He felt that there was enough land there for a fire house, which would be a
great central location.
Ms. Ragsdale noted that a Pantops Community Advisory Council would be created
simultaneously with the adoption of the Master Plan. Staff is hoping to get Board
approval when it is time to start advertising for public hearing to start recruitment of a
diverse group of members consisting of property owners, residents and business
owners in Pantops. That will be part of the implementation as well as those in Crozet.
Staff hopes to have the implementation plan to the Commission on the second week in
December.
Mr. Benish noted that staff plans to distribute the implementation plan to the
Commission next week. At the end of the meeting he would like to talk about
scheduling that in the December timeframe and what works for the Commission.
Ms. Joseph asked if anyone was present who would like to speak to the Pantops Master
Plan.
Brian Wheeler, member of the Albemarle County School Board, said that he had not
anticipated speaking tonight. But, in looking through the staff report he would like to
speak as one school board member and not for the board, he noticed that there was
information about future thoughts about school needs in this part of the community. As
they look at the Crozet Master Plan and how that is playing out, they know that a school
site was identified in the Crozet Master Plan and that may not work out as far as
whether that development comes in for a rezoning or by right. But, he would encourage
the Commission and staff to think about it and make sure that they working with the
school division and if there is enough housing that is projected to come in to the
Pantops Master Plan area that they go ahead and put on the map an idea about where
a future school site might need to be. If they look at the total number of housing units
that they are anticipating the potential in Places 29, they also need to think about middle
school and high school sites being designated on the map and the County working
towards securing that property. But, certainly they need to start thinking about
elementary schools.
Mr. Benish noted that the CIP does not project the need for an additional school in this
area at this time. Staff will be looking at the monitoring and looking at the need on a
regular basis with the schools. They will be taking a look at some of the general
recommendations for land for various public spaces that could be used as the County
may see fit in the future for recycling centers and schools.
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 13
cm
Ms. Joseph noted that they had talked about community centers at one point that may
be a need, but it may not be a school. But, it might be some public space that might be
needed.
Mr. Benish pointed out that staff would take a look at that need again.
Ms. Joseph noted that the work session had been completed since there were no
further comments.
Mr. Zobrist commended staff for doing such a good job.
Mr. Benish pointed out that staff would take the comments and suggestions and go
back and clean up the language of the document to bring it back and to work towards a
public hearing.
The Commission took a ten minute break at 7:20 p.m.
The meeting reconvened at 7:30 p.m.
CPA 2006-02 Eaglehurst Farm - Deletion of Proposed Road across Eaglehurst
Farm:
PROPOSAL: Amend Comprehensive Plan to delete a proposed road across
Eaglehurst Farm to Crozet Avenue from the Crozet Master Plan.
EXISTING COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE/DENSITY: Corridor General (CT4) -
mixed residential and commercial uses (net 4.5 units per acre for SFD, sfa & duplexes)
(net 12 units per acre for townhouses and apartments) (net 18 units per acre for mixed
use). Urban Edge (CT3) - supports center with predominately residential uses,
especially single-family detached (net 3.5-4.5 units per acre) (net 6.5 units per acre if
accessory apartments are added for 50% of the residential stock). Development Area
Reserve (CT2) and Preserve (CT1) - development area open space preserve or reserve
with very low residential density (net 1 unit per 20 acres).
ENTRANCE CORRIDOR: Yes
LOCATION: 854 Crozet Avenue (Route 240), approximately 500 feet south of its
intersection with Oak Drive
TAX MAP: 56 PARCELS: 14D1
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT: White Hall
STAFF: Rebecca Ragsdale
Ms. Joseph pointed out that CPA-2006-02 Eaglehurst Farm has been removed from the
agenda at the request of the applicant. It has been rescheduled for January 30, 2007.
The Commission does not have to take any action on that. She asked if there was
anyone present that came to speak to this item. There being none, the Commission will
expect to hear this item on the January 30 meeting.
CPA 2005-05 Southern Area B and Granger Property (David Benish)
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 14
CPA 2005-05 Southern Area B Study - Review amendment to the Comprehensive
Plan to include the recommendations of the Planning and Coordination Council's
(PACC) Southern Urban Area B Study.
Granger Property - Proposal to amend the Comprehensive Plan's Land Use
designation from Neighborhood Density Residential (3-6 dwellings per acre) to Office
Service use for a 69.5 acre property located south of the Norfolk Southern railroad track
and is bounded by 1-64 to the west, Sunset Avenue to the South, and Stribling Avenue
and Moore's Creek to the east. The property is located within the boundary of the
Southern Urban Area B Study area.
In summary, the Planning Commission held a work session on two proposed
comprehensive plan amendments that staff has been working on. One is staff initiated,
which is the process of adopting the recommendations of the Southern Urban Area B
Study, a Planning and Coordination Council's (PACC) study into the County's
Comprehensive Plan. The second is an applicant request for an amendment to the
Comprehensive Plan to change the land use designation, which is referred to as the
Granger property. That tract of land is approximately 69 acres of land, which is located
off of Stribling Avenue. It is designated for Neighborhood Density Residential in the
current County Comprehensive Plan. In the proposed PACC Area B Study is
recommended for high density residential and mixed use development. The applicant is
proposing an office/service designation in order to allow for a mixed use development
consisting of primarily basic employment related office development with mixed
commercial and possibly residential development.
Because the Granger property lies in the PACC Study, staff has been working on these
two projects together and really has taken the approach as you look at the amendments
to include the Southern Urban Area B Study take into consideration the request the
applicant has made to modify the land use designation on that Granger tract so that
really they could think of this as one comprehensive plan amendment. But, there is a
private request, which is a unique request that is part of it.
Staff reviewed the recommendations of the study in the staff report and answered the
Commission questions. Frank Cox, applicant, made a power point presentation and
explained the Granger request. The Commission took public comment. The
Commission provided comments and changes reflecting an office mixed use land use
on the Granger site and the changes identified in the staff report.
Staff will bring back revised language and maps to incorporate in to the Comprehensive
Plan to the Commission for future work sessions. Staff will also work on having a
dialogue with Jim Tolbert on how to get City comment.
Old Business:
Ms. Joseph asked if there was any old business,
There being no further old business, the meeting moved on to the next item.
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 15
on
New Business:
Ms. Joseph asked if there was any new business.
• On December 19 the meeting will begin at 5:15 p.m. to allow Mark Graham to
review the proposed work plan that will go to the Board in January.
• Mr. Edgerton suggested that the Commission do a resolution of intent to start the
process of incorporating green building initiative into the Comp Plan. He
requested staff to provide the appropriate language for the resolution. After
discussion, it was decided that the Commission would consider the resolution on
December 19 after hearing Mark Graham's presentation on the work program.
• On December 13 at 2:00 p.m. the Board of Supervisors will hold a joint Planning
Commission work session on the Mountain Overlay District Provisions and the
potential of extending any or all of those over the entire Rural Area. Staff will
forward the staff report to the Commission prior to the meeting.
There being no further new business, the meeting proceeded.
Adjournment:
With no further items, the meeting adjourned at 10:11 p.m. to the Tuesday, December
5, 2006 meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the auditorium at 401 McIntire Road, County Office
Building.
i%
V. Wayne rilimberg, Secr
(Recorded and transcribed by Sharon Claytor Taylor, Rec )rding Secre ry.
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - NOVEMBER 28, 2006 16