Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout08 20 1991 PC MinutesAugust 20, 1991 The Albemarle County Planning Commission held a public hearing on Tuesday, August 20, 1991, Meeting Room 7, County Office Building, Charlottesville, Virginia. Those members present were: Mr. Keith Rittenhouse, Chairman; Mr. Harry Wilkerson, Vice Chairman; Mr. Tom Jenkins; Mr. Phil Grimm; Ms. Ellen Andersen; Mr. Walter Johnson; and Ms. Babs Huckle. Other officials present were: Mr. Bill Fritz, Senior Planner; Mr. Ronald Keeler, Chief of Planning; and Mr. Richard Tarbell, Planner. Absent: 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 30, 1991 were conditionally approved. SDP-91-056 Village Homes at Mill Creek II Preliminary Site Plan - Proposal to construct 36 lots averaging 7,696 square feet on a 7.17 acre site. The housing type proposed is duplexes to be served by private roads. Property, described as Tax Map 90C, Parcels D and E, is located on the south side of the Southern Parkway approximately 1,000 feet west of Rt. 742 and it is bounded by Mill creek Drive and Copperstone Drive to the south. Zoned PUD, Planned Unit Development in the Scottsville Magisterial District. This site is located within a designated growth area, and is within the EC, Entrance Corridor Overlay District. Mr. Tarbell presented the staff report. Staff recommended approval subject to conditions. In response to Commission questions, Mr. Tarbell: --Confirmed that all access to double frontage lots would be to the internal road only; --Pointed out the location of the Mill Creek detention pond; --Confirmed that all drainage from these new lots would drain into the detention pond; --Confirmed that the detention pond had been sized for the entire PUD. Ms. Huckle felt it would be desirable for the detention pond to be inspected by the Erosion and Sediment Control Officer before further development. Mr. Tarbell stated that all county -approved facilities are inspected once a year; however, he was uncertain as to whether or not the pond would be inspected prior to erosion control plan approval in each case. Ms. Huckle was in favor of such an inspection being conducted. Mr. Johnson asked staff to comment on the applicant's statement that on the basis of 10-ft contour intervals (as referred to in the Zoning Ordinance) there were no critical slopes (Muncaster letter to Mr. Tarbell dated 7-15-91). Mr. /$ 4 8-20-91 2 Mr. Tarbell responded that the critical slope areas, in this case, are not a critical concern, but staff advised the applicant to request a waiver request "to be more thorough." Mr. Johnson mentioned the possibility of precedent and felt this issue should be clarified. Mr. Johnson asked why there was no mention of sidewalks, bikepaths, recreational facilities, open space, etc. Mr. Tarbell explained that no recreational facilities are required for this section of Mill Creek because they were not part of the proffered plan. He stated further that the remainder of the PUD has the required amount of open space, i.e. the requirement is met elsewhere in the plan. Mr. Tarbell stated that bikepaths and sidewalks could not be required. Mr. Rittenhouse asked staff to comment on the Engineering Department's suggestion that the architecture of the structures be revised to include the option of a basement. He asked if this comment was based on a serious concern about the amount of grading which would take place around the foundations of these units. Mr. Tarbell explained that staff had considered how the grading for the road would effect the siting of the dwellings on the lot. He confirmed, however, that the concern was not great enough to influence the recommendation of the Engineering Department on critical slopes. The applicant was represented by Mr. Hunter Craig. His comments included the following: --He supported the recommendation that the existing detention pond be inspected; --This plan for duplex units is far superior to the original plan for multi -family units; The Chairman invited public comment. Mr. Gary Hollins, President of the Mill Creek Homeowners' Association, addressed the Commission. He expressed concern about the density and the impact on the sediment control pond. His comments are made a part of this record as Attachment A. It was determined that the existing Homeowners' Association is responsible for the maintenance of the pond. Mr. Tarbell stated this issue had been discussed with the County Attorney who advised that County Ordinances cannot require (at this point of the development) that this section of development be a part of the maintenance agreement for /167' 8-20-91 g the pond. Mr. Keeler pointed out that the current homeowenrs in Mill Creek were aware of the maintenance requirement at the time they purchased their homes. Mr. Craig made the following statement: "We are fully aware of the situation. Obviously, we wouldn't expect existing single-family homeowners to pay for the maintenanceā€¢of a stormwater detention facility entirely. We expect the Village Homes --if existing single-family homeowners agree --to allow each Village Homes, I, II and III, to be totally separate entities and not be associated with the existing homeowners' association. We will ensure that each Village Homes pay its pro rata share of the maintenance of that stormwater detention facility and the easiest way to do that is on a per/lot basis." He confirmed this would be placed in the deed covenants "so long.as the homeowners' association wants separate associations for separate Village Homes." Mr. Johnson asked if this was being offered as a proffer. It was pointed out that proffers are attached only to rezonings. Though it was pointed out that the Commission did not have the latitude to impose this as a condition, Mr. Keeler noted that the representation made by the applicant could be accepted and would be clear in the record. Mr. Johnson commented: "It sounds like that would be very satisfactory, but I certainly don't think we're obligated in any way to consider approving any project which has an adverse effect on somebody else without having that covered in some manner, notwithstanding however it was placed with the County Attorney. It is completely beyond the scope of the Zoning Ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan for us to approve something for somebody that adversely effects somebody else without making appropriate provisions." Mr. Rittenhouse agreed this was true, but added: "But you have to establish that it does indeed adversely effect someone." Ms. Huckle, referring to a comment made by Mr. Hollins that there had been some runoff problems after a recent storm, asked if it were possible that the detention pond is not sized adequately. Mr. Keeler responded that this pond could not have caused those problems because the lots which experienced the problems are upstream from the detention facility. He added that "internal soil erosion protection falls under the Soil Erosion Ordinance." He also explained that even the best soil erosion control measures are only 80-85% effective. 159 8-20--91 4 Mr. John Hermsmier, representing Citizens for Albemarle, addressed the Commission. He read a statement expressing concerns about both Village Homes plans (See Attachment B). His primary concerns dealt with development on critical slopes and also about the reduction of the side setbacks from 15 to 10 feet. Mr. Brian Thomas, an adjacent property owner, addressed the Commission. He expressed concern about building on a drainage swale and how that might effect drainage in the buffer area. He also expressed concern about the reduction in side setback. Mr. Tom Muncaster, engineer for the project, explained the drainage plans. It was concluded that final contours, after grading and fill, would result in much less drainage in the swale area. The Commission discussed at some length the issue of a reduction in the setback from 15 to 10 feet. Mr. Tarbell explained that issue had been resolved by the Director of Planning -and Community Development who is authorized, (under Section 8.5.6.3), to reduce the setback if he finds it is within keeping with the PUD plan. Mr. Tarbell explained this was not an issue before the Commission. (Mr. Johnson asked if the public had a chance to challenge that decision. Mr. Tarbell responded negatively.) Mr. Keeler added that this is a judgmental decision which is delegated to the Director of Planning. He further explained that the ordinance states that a 15 foot sideyard setback (in urban residential districts) can be reduced to 10 feet if certain conditions, related entirely to fire flow, can be met. (The setback for this section has no relation to the setback followed in other sections.) The Director of Planning had determined that these conditions were met in this case. (Mr. Keeler explained the history of the 15 ft. sideyard setback.) Mr. Thomas again brought up the issue of the swale. He asked how grading and re-routing of the drainage would effect the buffer. Mr. Tarbell pointed out that the buffer along the single family units was "totally voluntary" on the part of the appliant. Mr. Jenkins asked if the drainage, as described by Mr. Muncaster, was a part of the plan or if it was just a part of the minutes of this meeting. It was determined the plan (of record) shows that the drainage will be handled with a drop inlet. The drainage was all shown as being piped. 459 8-20-91 5 Mr. Johnson asked if the applicant would be liable for any damage which might occur to existing properties as a result of drainage from this phase of development. Mr. Tarbell responded that a drainage easement does exist, but if drainage exceeds that easement, that would be a legal matter between private parties. Mr. Keeler agreed, but added that if the drainage does not work after the swale is moved, then, under the Soil Erosion Ordinance, the Engineering Department can require a soil erosion plan and require corrective measures any time activity on a property causes downstream damage, i.e. the County can require that it be corrected, but any damages would be a civil matter. Mr. Rittenhouse noted that the final site plan would show final contours and staff's final review (under administrative approval) would require that drainge is adequately provided for. He also noted: "The easement requires that whoever might own those lots has to allow the drainage to find its course along that easement." In response to Ms. Andersen's question, Mr. Tarbell explained the difference in a landscape easement [condition 1(h)] and a buffer. It was noted that the landscape easement referred to in the conditions applied to the double frontage lots (where it is required), "all the way around the road." Mr. Rittenhouse noted that the Ordinance does not provide for buffering between similar residential uses. Mr. Rittenhouse asked if the word "regarding" should be changed to "requiring" in condition 3(c)? It was decided the word "regarding" was appropriate. Mr. Grimm felt the proposal met the requirements of the Ordinances. Therefore, he moved that SDP-91-055 for Village Homes at Mill Creek II Preliminary Site Plan be approved subject to the following conditions: 1. The Planning Department shall not accept submittal of the final site plan for signature until tentative approvals for the following conditions have been obtained. The final site plan shall not be signed until the following conditions are met: a. Department of Engineering approval of grading and drainage plans and calculations; b. Department of Engineering approval of road and drainage plans and calculations; C. Department of Engineering approval of stormwater detention plans and calculations; 160 L-12FX6g_PI Cl d. Department of Engineering issuance of an erosion control permit; e. Virginia Department of Transportation approval of right-of-way improvements and drainage plans; f. Virginia Department of Transportation approval of amended ultimate road plans to show a 12 foot, 100' x 100' left turn lane; g. Albemarle County Service Authority approval of water and sewer plans; h. Staff approval of landscape easement and landscape plan to include screening in accordance with Section 32.7.9.8(c.4) on lots 1-16, 22-27, and 29-36; i. Revise road names as follows: White Post Road shall be Stoney Ridge Road and Boxweed Circle shall be Boxwood Court; j. Prior to any development or land disturbing activity, the existing erosion and sediment control pond will be inspected by the County Erosion and Sediment Control Officer. (This condition was added as requested by Ms. Huckle.) 2. Administrative approval of the final site plan. 3. Administrative approval of the final plats to include; a. Show existing property line to be vacated; b. Private road maintenance agreement; c. Language regarding the preservation of the existing trees in the undisturbed buffer, and delineation of the landscape easement on the plat. 4. A Certificate of Occupancy shall not be -issued until the following item is met: a. Fire Official approval. Ms. Andersen seconded the motion which passed unanimously. SDP-91-056 Village Homes at Mill Creek III Preliminary Site Plan - Proposal to create 40 lots averaging 6,810 square feet with 1.34 acres of open space on a 8.28 acre site. The housing type proposed is duplexes to be served by private roads. Property, described as Tax Map 90C1, Section 1, Parcel A2, is located on the west side of Rt. 742 (Avon Street Extended) at its intersection with Stoney Creek Drive and it is bounded to the west by Shady Grove Court. Zoned PRD, Planned Residential Development in the Scottsville Magisterial district. This site is located in a designated growth area, and is within the EC, Entrance Corridor Overlay District. 141 8-20-91 7 Mr. Fritz presented the staff report. Staff recommended approval subject to conditions, including.the addition of Condition No 5 as follows: "Adequate fire flow shall be provided for all units. Any cost incurred in providing adequate fire flow shall be the responsibility of the developer." In response to Mr. Johnson's question about open space, Mr. Fritz explained that the plan has met the open space requirements. Mr. Johnson asked staff to comment on the fact that the internal road was to be "built to state standards and dedicated." Mr. Fritz explained that at the time that condition had been imposed this area had been shown as multi -family and had no public roads, but this area is now proposed for duplexes and qualifies for private roads under Sec. 18.36(d)4. He stated staff has reviewed this phase in the same manner as Village Homes I and II. He confirmed that the remainder of the project does have public roads. Mr. Johnson "took exception" to the Zoning Administrator's opinion that because these units are duplexes as opposed to multi -family "the recreation requirements of Section 4.16 are not applicable and recreation areas are not required in order to satisfy the requirements of ZMA-87-22." Mr. Johnson quoted from a section of the Ordinance which stated that recreational areas are to be provided for "every development of 30 units or more, equal to or exceeding 4 dwelling units per acre, except for single family and 2-family dwellings developed on conventional lots." Mr. Fritz responded: "These are 2-family dwellings developed on conventional lots." Mr. Johnson questioned the definition of conventional lots; he referred to Section 10.3.1 which he stated was the closest definition he could find. Mr. Fritz pointed out that section was referring to Rural Areas. Mr. Johnson felt not requiring recreational areas in this instance was a violation of the Ordinance. He stated he found no evidence in the Zoning Ordinance to support the conclusion that these are conventional lots. He felt they are not conventional lots. He asked under what circumstances the provision for providing recreational facilities was visualized. Mr. Rittenhouse asked what would make the lots "unconventional?" Mr. Fritz explained it was the Zoning Administrator's opinion that the minimum setbacks are being met, yards are being provided [pursuant to Section 4.2.2(a)] and, therefore, they do not have to provide recreational facilities which are envisioned for townhouse/apartment type dwellings. ra,, ;? 8-20-91 8 Ms. Huckle expressed concern about the steep slope next to Shady Grove Court. In answer to Ms. Huckle's question, Mr. Fritz confirmed the sideyard setback is 15 feet. Mr. Fritz also explained the meaning of the condition requiring stormwater detention plans and calculations. i.e. "before the Engineering Department will grant final approval further calculations from the applicant are needed in order to ensure that the detention facility is adequate and the means of carrying the water to the detention facility are aequate." Ms. Huckle asked about bonding. Mr. Fritz explained that some of the downstream facilities are in and he did not think they would need to be bonded unless a maintenance bond should be required. He added that the applicant has shown much more stormwater detention on the plan than is typical. It was noted the correct term for the dwellings proposed was "single-family attached" rather than duplex. The Chairman invited applicant comment. Mr. Hunter Craig addressed the Commission. His comments included the following: --He asked for a 10-foot side setback, the purpose being to save trees. He explained the size of the houses is not going to change and the actual location of each house will be plated with the final plat. --The stormwater detention facility is already constructed. --Referring to Mr. Brent's letter dated August 15, 1991, to Mr. Fritz, Mr. Craig stated: "I am in agreement with Mr. Brent's letter with full reservation of our rights. I don't think his intentions were to take away our rights. I think we all agree; I just want to get that on the record." In reply to Ms. Huckle's question as to what rights Mr. Mr. Craig was referring, Mr. Craig responded: "Constitutional." Ms. Huckle asked for an explanation. Mr. Craig responded: "We are presently in a serious litigation over that very issue --constitutional rights --and I was informed today that this could be construed as me waiving our rights. I don't want to waive any rights whatsoever." Some Commissioners expressed a lack of understanding of Mr. Craig's meaning. Mr. Craig explained further: "We are presently discussing who should pay for it. We entered into a very lengthy agreement... that we construed to mean that they provide us with water. This could be construed to mean that we absolve them of that responsibility and that clearly is not the case." /09 8-20-91 9 Mr. Keeler added: "There is a difference of opinion between the service authority and the developer. Let them work it out. All the developer is saying is 'I'm in here to get the subdivision approved tonight; I'm not yielding to their interpretation...." In response to Ms. Huckle's question, he confirmed that the sideyard setbacks could vary somewhat, with 10 feet being the minimum. Ms. Huckle asked if there were any guarantee that the size of the dwellings would not change, as stated by the applicant. Mr. Craig responded: "We have no plans at this time to change our design." He explained that the structures would be similar in design to the existing single family dwellings. Mr. Craig emphasized that this was a far superior plan because it reduced the density from 100 to 40 units. Ms. Andersen asked if the applicant was requesting the addition of a condition regarding the setback. Mr. Tarbell explained this request would be addressed by the Director of Planning who would use the same criteria for making his decision, i.e. adequate fire flow, as had been described earlier in the meeting for Village Homes II. Mr. Fritz explained that the Fire Official would make the final determination as to adequate fire flow. Mr. Keeler explained: "I think the language on this is clear; it's clear in the PUD and I think Mr. Cilimberg can make that determination at a later date. All Mr. Craig is asking you is to allow it to be reduced in accordance with the Ordinance at a future time." Mr. Keeler quoted from the pertinent section of the Ordinance. He concluded: "Mr. Cilimberg cannot reduce it unless the Fire Official reduces it. This is not a matter of discrimination on the part of Mr. Cilimberg. He is simply acting in accordance with the Ordinance." Mr. Keeler added that the applicant has the right to pursue the reduction of the setback under the provisions of the Ordinance because there was nothing in the original zoning approval to preclude that. There being no further applicant or public comment the matter was placed before the Commission. There followed a lengthy discussion as to whether or not condition No. 5 (as stated previously) should be included or not. Mr. Rittenhouse explained that it should be included if the Commission determines it is appropriate. He 8-20-91 10 interpreted: "The applicant is not saying that it is an inappropriate condition; he's just not going any further than that." Mr. Johnson felt very strongly that approval with this condition included meant that the applicant was accepting that condition and, therefore, based on the statements made by Mr. Craig, the applicant could not accept this approval. Mr. Fritz stated that the County Attorney had approved the language as stated. Mr. Craig agreed that, "in the strictest sense" Mr. Johnson's interpretation could be correct. Mr. Craig suggested that Condition 5 have added the words "subject to that being overturned by another authority or by agreement." Mr. Rittenhouse again stated that if the Commission feels it is a valid condition,, it should be imposed and if the applicant challenges it in the courts and the courts agree, then the applicant will be relieved from the requirement. Mr. Johnson continued to argue the point. He did not think the applicant could proceed with the development under those conditions. Mr. Wilkerson pointed out that construction would not be halted because the condition is tied to the Certificate of Occupancy, not a building permit. Mr. Rittenhouse stated that staff and the County Attorney are advising that "this is an appropriate condition to protect the County." Mr. Keeler added: "We're simply trying to attach a condition which will keep everything from grinding to a halt. The applicant can certainly make improvements to the system and continue to sue, and either he wins or he loses. If he wins, then the Service Authority pays him for those improvements. If he loses, he has his development." He stressed that the Ordinance prohibits approval of a development without adequate fire flow. Mr. Johnson suggested an alternative condition: "Adequate fire protection is required." He felt this would not unduly jeopardize the rights of the applicant. Ms. Andersen stated she felt that as representatives of the County, the Commission was required to protect the County. Mr. Rittenhouse agreed and pointed out the County Attorney had initiated the condition for that purpose. Mr. Johnson responded: "The people are the County. Let's get off it now. The people make up the County. ... We better get together and work this thing out." Ms. Andersen moved that SDP-91-056 for Village Homes at Mill Creek III Preliminary Site Plan be approved subject to the following conditions: 8-20-91 11 1. The Planning Department shall not accept submittal of the final site plan for signature until tentative approvals for the following conditions have been obtained. The final site plan shall not be signed until the following conditions are met: a. Department of Engineering approval of grading and drainage plans and calculations; b. Department of Engineering approval of road and drainage plans and calculations; C. Department of Engineering approval of stormwater detention plans and calculations, if required; d. Department of Engineering issuance of an erosion control permit; e. Virginia Department of Transportation approval of right-of-way improvements and drainage plans; f. Albemarle County Service Authority approval of water and sewer plans; g. Staff approval of landscape easement and landscape plan to include screening in accordance with Section 32.7.9.8(c.4) on lots 7 through 14; h. Staff approval of road names; 2. Administrative approval of the final site plan; 3. Administrative approval of the final plats to include: a. Private road maintenance agreement; b. Language regarding the preservation of the existing trees in the undisturbed buffer and delineation of the landscape easement. 4. A Certificate of Occupancy shall not be issued until the following item is met: a: Fire Official approval. 5. (See Below*) Mr. Jenkins seconded the motion. Discussion: Mr. Johnson stated he would oppose the motion on the grounds that it jeopardized the rights of the applicant. The motion for approval passed (6:1) with Commissioner Johnson casting the dissenting vote. SUB-91-019 Stillfield Prelimina Plat - Proposal to create seven new lots averaging 2.17 acres with a 6.4 acre residue from three existing parcels totalling 22.43 acres. Six of the lots are proposed to be served by an internal road. Property, described as Tax Map 60, Parels 69A, 69A1, and *5. Adequate fire flow shall be provided for all units. Any cost incurred in providing adequate fire flow shall be the responsibility of the developer. 16 8-20-91 12 69F, is located on the north side of Barracks Road approximately 1200 feet west of Montvue Drive. Zoned RA, Rural Areas in the Jack Jouett Magisterial District. This property is not located within a designated growth area. Mr. Tarbell presented the staff report. Staff recommended approval subject to conditions. The applicant was represented by Mr. Tom Gale. He offered no additional comment. There being no public comment, the matter was placed before the Commission. Mr. Jenkins moved that the Stillfield Preliminary Plat be approved subject to the following conditions: 1. The final plat shall not be submitted nor shall it be signed until the following conditions are met: a. Department of Engineering approval of road and drainage plans and calculaitons; b. Department of Engineering issuance of an erosion control permit; c. Department of Engineering issuance of a runoff control permit; d. Virginia Department of Transportation approval of road and drainage plans and calculations; e. Staff approval of an amended road maintenance agreement for the Lot 7 access to Montvue Drive or a comparable agreement to the satisfaction of the Montvue Homeowners Association; f. Note on the plat: "The driveway to Lot 7 is restricted to the shared access with Parcel 69F. The driveway shall be constructed no less than 40 feet from the edge of pavement of Montvue-Drive and not further than Point A shown on the plat." 2. Dedication of additional right-of-way on Route 654 is necessary to accommodate the 100 foot taper lane. 3. Administrative approval of the final plat. Mr. Grimm seconded the motion which passed unanimously. IBM Office Building Site Plan Amendment Extension Reguest - The applicant is proposing to construct a 5,000 square foot addition to the existing IBM office building resulting in a total building size of 18,400 square feet on 1.89 acres zoned C-1, Commercial. The development will be served by 93 parking spaces. Property, described as Tax Map 60, Parcel 48, is located on the south side of old Ivy Road, just east 167 8-20-91 13 of its intersection with Rt. 250W and adjacent to the C & O Railroad in the Jack Jouett Magisterial district and is within the EC, Entrance Orridor Overlay District. Mr. Fritz presented the staff report. Staff did not support the extension request for the following reasons: --Length of time from original approval (3 years); -Lack of delay caused by any governmental agency; --Changes in the ordinance which could effect previous approvals. Mr. Fritz noted one significant Ordinance change since the original approval -of this application, that being the adoption of the Entrance Corridor Overlay District. The applicant was represented by Mr. Dick Shank. He explained that the needs of the applicant change rapidly and having an approved site plan allows a much quicker reaction to changes. He stated he would like to keep IBM as a tenant and would like the flexibility to offer additional space. There was a brief discussion as to how long the process of re -submittal takes. It was noted that Commission review of a re -submittal would take longer than an Administrative Approval. Ms. Huckle indicated she was in agreement with staff's position regarding the purpose of time limits and granting extensions without apparent cause. Ms. Huckle moved that the IBM Office Building Site Plan Amendment Extension Request be denied and that a re -submittal of the plan be reviewed by the Planning Commission. Mr. Johnson seconded the motion. Discussion: Ms. Andersen stated she would not support the motion because she was in favor of option No. 2 in the staff report, i.e. administrative approval of a re -submittal. She expressed a sympathy for financial difficulties currently being experienced by applicants because of the economic recession. The motion for denial passed (6:1) with Commissioner Andersen casting the dissenting vote. MISCELLANEOUS Extension Requests - Mr. Jenkins expressed an understanding of staff's position regarding extension requests; however, he felt the Commission and staff should be as supportative as possible in expediting the review of re -submittals. Im 8-20-91 14 Water Resources Committee -- Mr. Rittenhouse reported that the Board has asked for two representatives from the Commission to serve on this Committee. Those persons were to be named at the August 27th.meeting. Meals Tax Referendum - Mr. Rittenhouse reported that the Board has requested that the Commission adopt a Resolution of Intent indicating support for the inclusion of a Meals Tax Referundum being placed on the ballot in the upcoming election, the revenue from the tax to be used for Capital Improvements Projects, particularly schools. Village III__Homes - Mr. Johnson again brought up the issue of Condition No. 5 which had been added to this approval. He felt the following should have been added: "Accepting this as a condition of approval in no way jeopardizes the applicant's options for further appeal." He felt if the applicant began work under this approval, he already "had two strikes against him in regards to any appeal." Mr. Rittenhouse noted that Mr. Johnson was trying to protect an applicant who was not looking for protection because "he has his eyes wide open as to what this means and is fully aware . " Existing Improvements to Rt. 250 East - Mr. Keeler advised the Commission that staff was frequently being called on to make decisions about amendments to plans (waste areas, tree cuttings,, etc.) to accommodate the highway project. He stated: "We will exercise our discretion only to the extent necessary to accommodate the highway project." The Commission expressed no objections. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m. , DB /6 9