HomeMy WebLinkAbout08 31 1993 PC Minutes8-31-93
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AUGUST 31, 1993
The Albemarle County Planning Commission held a public
hearing on Tuesday, August 31, 1993, Meeting Room 7, County
Office Building, Charlottesville, Virginia. Those members
present were: Mr. Phil Grimm, Chairman; Mr. Walter Johnson,
Vice Chairman; Mr. William Nitchmann; Mr. Tom Jenkins; Mr.
Tom Blue; Ms. Ellen Andersen; and Ms. Babs Huckle. Other
officials present were: Mr. Wayne Cilimberg, Director of
Planning and Community Development; Mr. Bill Fritz, Senior
Planner; and Mr. George St. John, County Attorney.
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and
established that a quorum was present. The minutes of July
20 were approved as amended.
T -93-03 Worrell Land and Cattle Com an - Proposal to
amend the CO, Commercial Office, C-1, Commercial and HC,
Highway Commercial districts to permit helistops/heliports
by special use permit.
Mr. Fritz presented the staff report. Staff recommended
approval of the amendment. Mr. Fritz noted the following
change in the staff report: On page 3, change the final
paragraph to read: "Add to supplemental regulations Section
5.1.1: 7. Helistops/heliports in commercial and industrial
districts should be supportive of a large development as
opposed to a smaller stand-alone facility."
Mr. Blue questioned the use of the reference to
"longitudinal" distance in Attachment B. Mr. Fritz
explained that was meant to mean "each end of the runway
must be 1000 feet from the approach zones." Mr. Blue felt
it should be stated more clearly.
Mr. Blue also asked for a clarification of the term "airport
imaginary surfaces" (Attachment B). Mr. Fritz explained the
term was defined (in other portions of the Airport Overlay
District) as such areas as the noise impact overlay
district, approach zones, etc. Mr. St. John added that the
term is also defined within the FAA regulations.
Mr. Blue questioned the phrase (Attachment B - C4) "All
facilities shall be located and designed so that the
operation thereof will not seriously effect adjacent
residential areas." He felt "seriously effect" was a
subjective term and "didn't mean a thing."
The applicant was represented by Mr. Andrew Dracopoli. He
explained that the helistop would be used by Peter Jefferson
Place.
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In response to Ms. Huckle's question about the size of the
helicopters, Mr. Dracopoli explained that they would be
single-roter, 3-4 passenger, as used by corporate
enterprises as opposed to military -type helicopters.
There being no public comment, the matter was placed before
the Commission.
MOTION: Mr. Blue moved, seconded by Ms. Huckle, that
ZTA-93-03 for Worrell Land and Cattle Company be recommended
to the Board of Supervisors for approval as presented by
staff.
Discussion:
There was a brief discussion about a size limitation being a
part of the amendment. Mr. St. John pointed out that the
County will have control on size on a case -by -case basis.
Mr. Nitchmann asked if the County would have the authority
to deny a helistop which might be in very close proximity to
a previously approved helistop, and, if so, on what grounds.
(He could foresee this as a potential problem in the
future.) Mr. Cilimberg stated the Commission would need to
apply the criteria set forth to determine how the use would
impact adjacent areas. Mr. St. John explained that allowing
a use by special permit means that it is recognized that
there are places for the use, but not every place is
appropriate.
Mr. Blue understood Mr. Nitchmann's concern, but pointed out
that the approval of this amendment will only result in
allowing heliports (by special permit) in commercial areas
as they are already allowed in the RA, LI and HI. He didn't
think this change would make much difference.
Mr. St. John stated that if heliports should become too
prolific, the zoning text amendment could be repealed.
Mr. Blue pointed out that the Supplementary Regulations
require that a finding be made that a heliport will not
interfere or compete with the Charlottesville -Albemarle
Airport. Mr. St. John felt this related more to economic
competition and he felt "this business of economically
protecting the airport from competition is highly
questionable."
The previously stated motion for approval passed
unanimously.
-93-18 Worrell Land & Cattle Compan - Petition to allow a
helistop on 46.5 acres zoned PD-MC, Planned Development
Mixed Commercial. Property, described as Tax Map 78, Parcel
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20C is located on the south side of Route 250 between State
Farm Blvd and I-64 in the Rivanna Magisterial District.
This site is located in a designated growth area (Urban
Neighborhood 3) recommended for Office Service. (This use
is proposed by ZTA-93-03.)
Mr. Fritz presented the staff report. Staff recommended
approval subject to conditions.
Mr. Blue questioned the applicant's plan for a concrete
landing surface (as opposed to a grass surface as noted as
being most likely in the staff report).
Mr. Fritz explained that the applicant has changed plans
since the staff report and will "most likely go with grass."
In answer to Ms. Huckle's question about fencing, Mr. Fritz
explained that the applicant plans to fence the landing
surface "for their own purposes."
In answer to Mr. Blue's question about a site development
plan, Mr.`Fritz explained that the entire development (Peter
Jefferson Place) will have to be submitted and approved. He
stated staff will ensure that the surface is dust free and
that there are no structures located so as to interfere with
the operation of the helicopter. He also stated that the
applicant has filed an application with the FAA which shows
"this" as being their approach zone. Staff noted
alternatives in the event of changes in wind conditions or
emergencies.
In answer to Ms. Huckle's question about landing in places
other than on a landing pad, Mr. Fritz confirmed that
helicopters can land on a variety of solid surfaces.
The applicant was represented by Mr. Andrew Dracopoli. He
explained the applicant views this as a "marketing plus" in
attracting desirable tenants for Peter Jefferson Place. He
explained how and why this particular site had been chosen.
The site is ideal from a technical standpoint. Adjoining
property owners were contacted and expressed no opposition.
Night-time lights are not being requested. This will be a
private -use helistop; however, if proliferation of helistops
should become a problem in the future, the applicant is
willing to make the helistop available for the area.
Addressing Ms. Huckle's earlier question about the size of
helicopters, Mr. Johnson explained that large helicopters,
such as multi -passenger or cargo units, are not visualized
in this use. He felt the economics of this type of
transportation is, in itself, a limiting factor.
There being no public comment, the matter was placed before
the Commission.
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MOTION: Mr. Johnson moved, seconded by Ms. Huckle, that
SP-93-18 for Worrell Land & Cattle Company be recommended to
the Board of Supervisors for approval subject to the
following conditions:
1. No fuel storage or overnight helicopter storage shall be
permitted.
2. No maintenance, except emergency maintenance, shall be
permitted.
3. No lighting shall be permitted. Takeoff and landing
shall be permitted during daylight hours only.
4. Approval and registration with both the FAA and Virginia
Department of Aviation.
5. Landing surface shall be dust free.
The motion passed unanimously.
ZMA-93-09 C. Todd Shields - Proposal to rezone approximately
five acres from R-6, Residential to HC, Highway Commercial
on property described as Tax Map 45, Parcel 112 (part of)
located on the west side of Rt. 29N, west of the Kegler
Bowling Alley/Miniature Golf Course and approximately 0.7
miles north of the Rio Road/Rt. 29N intersection. The site
is located in a designated growth area (Urban Neighborhood
1) recommended for Regional Service.
AND
SP-93-20 C.-Todd Shields - Proposal to locate a commercial
recreation establishment (24.2.2(1)] on approximately five
acres currently zoned R-6, Residential. (ZMA-93-09 C. Todd
Shields is pending on this site). Property described as Tax
Map 45, parcel 112 (part of) is located on the west side of
Rt. 29N, west of the Kegler Bowling Alley/Miniature Golf
Course and approximately 0.7 miles north of the Rio Road/Rt.
29N intersection. The site is in the Charlottesville
Magisterial District and is located in a designated growth
area (Urban Neighborhood 1) recommended for Regional
Service.
AND
S -047 - Todd Shields Preliminary Site Plan - Approval
of use of private septic system in accord with Section
32.7.5.1.
Mr. Fritz presented the staff report. Staff was
recommending approval of all three proposals.
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Mr. Blue pointed out that this is an opportunity to get a
proffer for gravity sewer to this property, though none has
been offered. He was concerned that not taking advantage of
this opportunity was depriving the County of a possible
source of funding. He asked staff to comment. Mr. Fritz
explained that staff had reviewed the rezoning request
"blind to any other use" because the applicant's financing
could fall through and then there could be a much more
intensive use on the property. He added, however: "Any
site plan that is reviewed on any property within the
Albemarle County Service Authority jurisdictional area must
connect to public water and sewer if you deem it reasonably
available and, if you do, he would have to extend those
lines for that use. In this case, (that could mean)
improving the pump station, providing a contribution to the
gravity sewer, construction of the gravity sewer, or some
alternative system. So you do have that control on any site
plan regardless of the nature of the use."
Mr. Blue stated that he had contacted ACSA and one of its
engineers had been of the opinion that this particular use
would generate such a little demand that it really is
incidental to the whole developed area. He pointed out the
same argument had been used on the miniature golf course in
front of Keglers, but that had not been a rezoning.
It was determined that the site has access across Keglers
and is not dependent on access from Berkmar Drive. It was
determined the Western Bypass would not effect this
property.
In answer to Mr. Johnson's question about noise regulations
in the event the property is rezoned, Mr. Fritz explained
that the property would be subject to all applicable
regulations for HC property. However, he stated that
Section 4.14 of the Zoning Ordinance does not apply to a
commercial establishment. Mr. Cilimberg explained that
noise concerns would have to be addressed through the
special permit conditions. Mr. Johnson wondered if the
Ordinance should be reviewed so as to make Section 4.14
applicable "across the board."
Regarding the issue of adequate water and sewer, Mr.
Cilimberg stressed that even if another use were to be
proposed after the property is rezoned, that issue would
have to be addressed as required by the Ordinance and does
not have to be proffered or made a condition of a special
permit. (He repeated this again later in the meeting,
stating: "This parcel has to use public utilities unless
you grant them the use of private septic or well.") Mr.
Fritz added that the Commission may deny the use of private
septic systems until such time as the pump station is
upgraded or a gravity line is in place, etc. He confirmed
this would also apply to a by -right use.
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Mr. Grimm felt this offered good control of the use of the
property. Mr. Blue pointed out, however, that only a
rezoning offers the opportunity to improve the utility. Mr.
Fritz interjected that the applicant could be required to
contribute, at the time of site plan, an amount that would
be needed to serve his own needs. Mr. Blue felt it was not
aquestion of the protection of health, safety and welfare
since that can be accomplished through the site plan, rather
it is a financial question.
Referring to a statement in the staff report that "lack of
sewer capacity at this time is not sufficient justification
for denial as several alternatives are available," Ms.
Huckle asked staff to comment on those alternatives. Mr.
Fritz replied: "Delay development until such time as the
Service Authority installs gravity sewer; install gravity
sewer at the cost of the developer; wait until the Service
Authority upgrades the pump station; upgrade the pump
station at the cost of the developer; or installation of a
private septic field, to be approved by the Health
Department and the Commission."
In response to Mr. Johnson's question about ARB review, Mr.
Cilimberg explained that neither of the criteria for EC
overlay application apply in this case.
In response to Ms. Huckle's question about tree removal, Mr.
Fritz explained that the applicant would have to meet the
tree canopy and landscaping provisions of the Ordinance and
the plantings would have to be either installed or bonded.
Mr. Fritz confirmed that the proposed rezoning would make
the property more in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan
than it is currently.
The applicant, Mr. Todd Shields, addressed the Commission.
He was accompanied by Mr. Tom Muncaster, engineer for the
project. Answers to Commission questions included the
following:
--Connection to public sewer has been investigated and
found to be cost -prohibitive for the applicant.
--The applicant has offered a contribution (i.e. "has
agreed in principle") at such time as the pumping station is
upgraded. He explained that the pump station is controlled
by several landowners and this applicant has no control. He
confirmed this offer would be valid even though a private
septic system will already be in place.
--The applicant has agreed to contribute approximately
1 acre for improvements to Berkmar Drive.
--Noise studies which have been performed indicated
that noise will not be a factor at the nearest residential
property line and the levels will be in conformance with the
Ordinance.
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--The site will be graded significantly, but the
applicant will preserve as many of the existing trees as
possible.
--The bumper -boat area will be approximately 3,500 to
4,000 square feet, with an average water depth of 18-24
inches. The water will be treated with a sand filter,
backwash system.
The Chairman invited public comment.
Ms. Karen Strickland addressed the Commission. She
questioned the proposal's consistency with the Comprehensive
Plan. She felt changing land that could potentially be for
affordable housing to commercial was "short sighted." She
felt this five -acre site did not fit into the 30-acre scheme
for the property.
In response to Mr. Blue's question, Mr. Fritz confirmed that
staff feels the proposed rezoning is not in conflict with
either the Comprehensive Plan or the HC district.
There being no further public comment the matter was placed
before the Commission.
MOTION: Mr. Blue moved that ZMA-93-09 for C. Todd Shields
be recommended to the Board of Supervisors for approval.
Mr. Johnson seconded the motion.
Discussion:
Ms. Huckle felt the rezoning was premature. She noted that
the Comp Plan recommends the use of public utilities in
urban neighborhoods. She felt this could lead to further
requests from commercial uses for private septic systems.
She stated she would not support the motion.
In response to Mr. Johnson's question, staff confirmed that
the parcel does have access.
Mr. Blue stated that though his question regarding the
public sewer had been answered to his satisfaction, he felt
there were a lot of other questions which would come up with
the review of the special permit and site plan. He did not
think there was any question about the rezoning because it
was making the property more in conformance with the Comp
Plan.
Mr. St. John pointed out that the applicant's agreement to
dedicate property for Berkmar Drive is unenforceable unless
it is proffered. Staff felt the applicant had made a
committment to the County Engineer. Mr. St. John asked what
would happen if the ownership changed. Mr. Fritz
interjected that the applicant had just offered to proffer
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to dedicate the necessary right-of-way for Berkmar Drive
upon completion of the final road plans. He noted that the
exact location could not be pinned down because the final
road plans have not been done. Mr. St. John agreed that
would take care of his concern. Mr. Cilimberg asked that
the applicant submit the written proffer prior to the Board
hearing.
AMENDED MOTION: Mr. Blue moved that ZMA-93-09 for C. Todd
Shields be recommended to the Board of Supervisors for
approval subject to acceptance of the applicant's proffer as
previously described.
Mr. Johnson seconded the motion which passed , 6:1 with
Commissioner Huckle casting the dissenting vote.
SP-93-20 C. Todd Shields - (See previous description)
Mr. Fritz presented the staff report. Staff recommended
approval.
Mr. Johnson asked if the fact that this miniature golf
course will be less than 200 feet from an existing one had
been given any consideration. Mr. Fritz explained that
staff felt that was not an appropriate issue for staff to
consider. Staff had consulted with the Police Department to
see if there were any concerns about having this
concentration of recreational uses. The Police Department
had expressed no concerns.
Mr. Johnson expressed concern about the noise generated by a
go-kart track and the fact that apparently the Ordinance
does not address noise concerns on highway commercial
property. Mr. Fritz explained that staff had compared the
use, in terms of noise, to swimming pools, golf, and tennis
facilities. (The applicant had objected to this
comparison.) It was staff's determination, that the noise
would not exceed the regulations for swim, golf and tennis
uses. Ms. Huckle questioned how the go-kart use could be
compared to those noted by Mr. Fritz. Mr. Blue indicated
that he felt the noise probably would be "drowned out" by
the traffic on Berkmar Drive and Rt. 29 which are on either
side of the property. That being the case, Mr. Johnson did
not see why there would be a problem with making the
restrictions of Section 4.14.1 of the Zoning Ordinance
applicable. Mr. Fritz confirmed the Commission and the
Board had the right to make such a condition, but the Zoning
Administrator feels that it is difficult to enforce. Mr.
Fritz also confirmed that staff feels the noise levels will
not be excessive for this type of setting and zoning.
Mr. St. John questioned the source of the designation
"commercial recreation center." Mr. Fritz explained that
the definition was contained within the text of the use
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itself and is found within the HC district. In the
Commercial District, it states, as a special use,
"commercial recreation establishment, including, but not
limited to, amusement centers, bowling alleys, pool halls
and dance halls." He explained that amusement center is a
defined use. Mr. Fritz then read the definition of
amusement center.
Mr. St. John asked if approval of a commercial recreation
establishment automatically makes some of the recreation
uses by -right, i.e. will a go-kart track then be by -right?
Mr. Fritz responded that it was his feeling that the
Commission could approve part of the application, and not
approve other parts. He explained: "If you believe that
miniature golf course and batting cages are O.K., ... but
go-karts are not, I do believe (those could be denied)."
Mr. St. John wanted the Commission's discretion to be clear.
Ms. Huckle asked if this approval could allow dancehalls (as
mentioned previously). Mr. Fritz replied negatively. He
explained that that type of use had existed prior to the
current ordinance. Ms. Huckle stated she would be opposed
to approval of any request which could allow a dancehall.
Ms. Andersen asked if it ws common practice to accept
studies which are done by applicants. Mr. Cilimberg
explained that because there is insufficient staff to
perform a variety of studies, applicants' studies are
accepted and then are submitted to the County Engineering
Department for review.
Mr. Cilimberg suggested that the Commission might wish to
specify which uses are covered in the special permit
approval. Mr. Johnson felt the only basis for a limitation
would be concerns about noise.
The Chairman invited public comment.
Mr. Todd Shields addressed the Commission. Answers to
Commission questions included the following:
--Security should not be a problem because the site
will be totally enclosed in 4-6 foot fences of a
wrought -iron style. The go-kart area will be shielded by a
4-6 foot privacy fence.
--The applicant feels the use is compatible with the
area and there is a need for this type facility.
--No alcohol will be served and the facility is
intended to promote family activities.
--A market study indicated there is sufficient market
for at least one other miniature golf course. The proposed
facility is significantly different from the golf course at
the front of the property and the owners of both properties
have a good relationship and are mutually interested in
promoting a symbiotic relationship.
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--Noise studies from other localities show that noise
levels will not exceed those stated in the Ordinance. The
uses have been sited so as to minimize their impact.
--Bumper-boats and go-karts have been improved so as to
reduce their noise levels. 12-16 go-karts will be used.
The machines will have governors to control their speed.
--Go-karts have height -requirements (thus small
children cannot operate them). The attendant at the track
will also be able to control each kart individually by a
radio -controlled device.
--Removal of the go-kart use would have a drastic
economic impact on the facility.
--There may be a need for some flexibility in the
recreational uses within the park so that a use that proves
to be unprofitable can be changed for another use (which
meets the standards of the Zoning Ordinance).
--Hours anticipated are Sunday through Thursday - 10
a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday - 10 a.m. to midnight.
The use is a year-round operation.
The Chairman invited public comment.
Ms. Karen Strickland addressed the Commission. She
expressed reservations and concerns about passive -type
recreation, air pollution from go-karts, and noise. (Mr.
Shields later explained that pollution on these vehicles is
negligible.) She questioned the need for another miniature
golf course on Rt. 29. She compared it to a beach community
atmosphere. (Mr. Shields later assured Ms. Strickland that
this would be an "upscale" project.) She expressed concern
about the early hours of operation (during the school day)
and the possibility that the facility may eventually be
connected to Agnor-Hurt Elementary School by sidewalks.
There being no further comment, the matter was placed before
the Commission.
Mr. Johnson indicated he could support the request with the
addition of a fourth condition making the noise restrictions
of Section 4.14.1 of the Performance Standards of the Zoning
Ordinance applicable. (The applicant expressed no objection
to this suggestion.) Mr. Fritz read the pertinent section
of the Ordinance. Mr. Fritz felt the go-karts would be able
to meet these requirements (based on a study done at the
time of a previous proposal for this type of use by this
same applicant.)
Ms. Huckle recalled that there had been significant
opposition to this use when it had been proposed for a site
on Rio Road.
Ms. Huckle was in favor of a fifth condition limiting the
uses to those shown on the site plan and any proposed change
would require County approval.
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Mr. Nitchmann asked how other Commissioners felt about the
facility's close proximity to the elementary school. Mr.
Fritz stated that at the time of the previous request, he
had spoken with a school principal on the subject of
truancy. The principal felt that, based on the young age of
the children, truancy would not be a problem. Ms. Huckle
expressed concern about children who might go to the
facility after school and spend their lunch money. Mr.
Nitchmann felt that was a responsibility of the parents.
Mr. Nitchmann felt there was a need for this type of
facility.
MOTION: Mr. Nitchmann moved, seconded by Mr. Johnson, that
SP-93-20 be recommended to the Board of Supervisors for
approval subject to the following conditions.
1. No alcohol sales.
2. The bumper boat pool shall not be constructed until a
method of handling the waste water has been approved by the
Department of Environmental Quality.
3. Fencing shown on the site plan shall not be bonded and
shall be installed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy.
4. Compliance with Section 4.14.1 of the Zoning Ordinance.
5. Uses shall be limited to those uses shown on the site
plan (go kart races, batting cage, childrens play area,
bumper boats, miniature golf course and fun center).
(Mr. Shields, in response to Mr. Jenkins' question,
described the childrens play area as being for kiddie rides
and a soft play area. Entrance into the park will be free,
with an individual charge for each activity.)
The motion for approval passed unanimously.
SDP-93-047 - Todd Shields Preliminary Site Plan -
Mr. Fritz presented the staff report. He noted that staff's
review "assumed the approval of ZMA-93-09 and SP-93-20." He
explained that staff would approve the plan administratively
if the Commission approves the use of a private septic
system in accord with Section 32.7.5.1.
Mr. Johnson asked if approval of a private septic system at
this time means that it is approved forever, i.e. will the
property be obligated to connect to public sewer if it
becomes reasonably available? Mr. Fritz explained that the
Commission could place a condition on the approval which
would require that the site be connected to public sewer
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when it becomes reasonably available. Mr. St. John added
that the County does not have a "mandatory hook-up"
requirement but a condition such as described by Mr. Fritz
was acceptable. Mr. Fritz added that the Commission would
have to define precisely the term "reasonably available" so
as to make it enforceable by the Zoning Administrator.
There was a brief discussion of a similar request (for Blue
Ridge Garden Center (on Proffit Road). Staff explained that
their recommendation was different on the current request
because: (1) It is felt that "it is much less likely" that
public sewer will become available to this site; and (2)
Because of the action the Commission took on the Blue Ridge
request, i.e. allowing a private system.
Mr. St. John pointed out that if there are enough approvals
of private systems, with no condition requiring hook-up at
some future point, then there will be no incentive for
public sewer to ever be extended.
Mr. St. John pointed out that the term "reasonably
available" takes into consideration not only distance, but
also availability of easements, capacity, etc.
Mr. Cilimberg pointed out that Kegler's is on public sewer
but has used most of the available pump capacity.
Therefore, essentially, there is sewer within 500 feet, but
there is no more pump capacity available.
Mr. Nitchmann questioned the public benefit of requiring
this, or any other property, to connect to public sewer if
their private system is functioning efficiently. Mr. St.
John responded: "I think the courts would uphold you if you
find that it is in the public interest not to allow a
proliferation of septic fields and private wells in the
jurisdictional area of the Service Authority, which overlaps
the growth area of the County."
Mr. Johnson felt the limit of a septic field is a
controversial issue.
Ms. Huckle expressed concern about septic fields being
located under paved areas. Mr. Fritz pointed out that when
both drainfields are located under paved areas it is
required that both the primary and back-up fields be
installed before the area is paved so that their usage can
be switched back and forth if necessary. Mr. Fritz did not
know if both fields were under the parking area in this case
since only the location of the primary field is shown (which
is under the parking area).
Mr. Grimm was in favor of requiring that the site connect to
public sewer when it is reasonably available. Commissioners
Andersen, Huckle and Johnson agreed.
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Mr. Nitchmann questioned how the Commission could determine
what distance is appropriate.
Mr. Muncaster, engineer for the project, expressed his
opinion as to when public sewer may be extended and its
probable location. He felt it would be within 200 feet of
the building.
Mr. Grimm felt 200 feet was a reasonable distance in this
case. (Ms. Huckle was in favor of 500 feet.)
Ms. Andersen asked if 200 feet would become a "standard" for
other requests. Mr. St. John replied: "No. This is a
case -by -case issue."
It was determined the current sewer line at Kegler's is 560
feet from this property line (not from the building).
Based on the Commission's discussion, Mr. Fritz recommended
the following condition: "At such time as a sewer line with
adequate capacity is in place within 200 feet of the
building, the applicant shall connect to public sewer."
Mr. Blue recalled that the applicant had previously stated
his willingness to contribute his pro -rated share to extend
sewer if an agreement can be reached among the adjacent
property owners. (Mr. Shields later confirmed this was
accurate. He noted that connection to public sewer would
increase the value of the property.) It was Mr. Blue's
feeling that the Service Authority will not extend public
sewer to this area "on its own" without developer
contributions to upgrade the pump station.
The applicant, Mr. Shields, suggested that the time to
require the upgrading of the public sewer is when the
intensity of the site is increased. He did not see any
public benefit to be gained by requiring connection to
public sewer at this point.
Ms. Huckle felt that allowing a private system would
eliminate any incentive for the public sewer to be extended.
Mr. Blue understood Ms. Huckle's position, but felt "it's
unfair to penalize this applicant for not being able to get
all the others together to come up with something."
Ms. Andersen indicated she could support the request with a
condition as read earlier by Mr. Fritz.
MOTION: Mr. Nitchmann moved, seconded by Ms. Andersen, that
the Todd Shields' request for use of a private septic system
to serve a commercial recreation establishment on Tax Map
45, Parcel 112 / (Special Permit 93-20) be approved, with
the requirement that at such time as a sewer line with
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adequate capacity is in place within 200 feet of the
building, the applicant shall connect to public sewer."
Mr. Nitchmann noted that the applicant has already
contributed a considerable amount to the County in the
dedication of property for Berkmar Road. He felt he had
"done his fair share" and the County could "meet him halfway
on this distance." He concluded that he felt the condition
was not actually necessary but he recognized that the
request would not pass without the condition.
The motion passed (6:1) with Commissioner Huckle casting the
dissenting vote.
WORK SESSION
CIP Funding Overview - Mr. Baker introduced Ms. Roxanne
White (County Executive's Office) and Mr. Melvin Breeden
(Finance Department). They were present in response to the
Commission's request for a presentation on the funding
process.
Ms. White presented a written explanation of the review
process to the Commission and then went over that
explanation in her presentation. Ms. White and staff
answered questions about project review, revenue
calculations, the bond process, revenue sharing, Board
policy, the General Fund, Meadowcreek Parkway funding,
school projects, and debt service.
There was an extended discussion on the inclusion of
projects in the CIP for which there is no known funding.
(Some Commissioners expressed their opposition to this
procedure.) Specifically discussed was the Meadowcreek
Parkway. Staff explained that the County Attorney has
interpreted State Code to require that a project must be
included in the CIP in order for the county to get proffered
developer contributions. Mr. Johnson disagreed with this
interpretation and offered to meet with the County Attorney.
Mr. Johnson interpreted the Code as meaning that a project
must be in the CIP before the County can actually accept the
contribution, but NOT before it can accept a proffer for the
contribution. Ms. Huckle suggested that, at the very least,
there should be some distinction made for these monies which
show that they are "not real money."
In relation to school projects, Mr. Johnson stated he could
see no evidence of competitive evaluation of projects in
terms of cost-effectiveness and necessity. Ms. White
explained that figures are projected before projects go out
to bid, but a competitive bidding process is always followed
before contracts are awarded. Mr. Johnson concluded: "I
��a
8-31-93 15
just think we could get more done if we worked together as a
team."
Also referring to school projects, Ms. Huckle felt there
must be "stock" school plans available without "reinventing
the wheel" each time a new school is needed.
Ms. Huckle felt that written minutes of CIP work sessions
should be made available to the Board "rather than just
handing them our list." Mr. Cilimberg confirmed that work
sessions are recorded. Mr. Nitchmann suggested that any
specific Commission recommendations and issues should be
attached to the "list" so that the Board will be sure not to
miss them. Mr. Cilimberg agreed that Mr. Nitchmann's
suggestion was the best way to keep the Board informed of
the Commission's desires in relation to CIP projects. Ms.
Andersen agreed. It was noted that this has been done in
the past. Ms. Huckle felt written minutes on CIP work
sessions were important. (No other Commissioners expressed
agreement with Ms. Huckle's suggestion.) Mr. Cilimberg
assured Ms. Huckle that the Board receives copies of
Commission minutes.
(RECORDING SECRETARY'S NOTE: Any work session which is held
during the time of the regularly scheduled public
hearing--7:00 p.m. Tuesday nights --is transcribed. The
Board receives copies of all minutes that are transcribed.
Work sessions which are held at other times during the week
are transcribed on a time -permitting basis. Recorded tapes
of all work sessions are kept on file and are available to
the public or the Board of Supervisors at any time.]
Mr. Nitchmann expressed the feeling that the School Board
runs the County government. He felt that parents must be
willing to pay higher taxes if.they want all the programs
and facilities which the Education Department seeks to
provide.
MISCELLANEOUS
Discussing the next CIP work session, Mr. Nitchmann asked
for an appropriate representative to be present to answer
questions about the Assessment Package and the School
Technology funding request.
Mr. Nitchmann questioned the project to change 4,000 feet of
counter space to comply with ADA requirements.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at
11:35 p.m.
Rem ded by: Janice Wills
Transcribed by: Deloris Bradshe