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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCorrespondenceJason Schubert -Hillel concept plan comments Pa- ge 1 � From: Jason Schubert To: Hillel@startel.net Date: 6/4/2007 5:32 pm Subject: Hillel concept plan comments CC: fcorrales@sparchitects.com I have attached comments for the above -referenced project. Since the $200 concept plan application fee was paid, the material submitted is now a formal project and I am able to provide comments regarding it. Let me know if you have any questions. Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 Email Correspondence with Applicant/Owner From: Jason Schubert To: Hitchcock, Molly Date: 4/23/2007 1:21 pm Subject: Re: Richard 713.522.1666 Molly, found nothing in the Traditions file to help. In the City garage file, there was no site plan but I found a response comment stating the "parking spaces are 9'-0" wide x 18'-0" deep (including a maximum 2'-0" overhang)." I'm not sure if that means 18+2=20 or 16+2=18. What do you think? The next response comment refers to the number of handicap spots on each level and that they had to replace "two small car spaces" with a handicap space. I think that might mean we don't regulate them (except for the number and ADA handicap stuff) since we don't have "small car" spaces. Agree? >>> Molly Hitchcock 4/23/2007 11:06 am >>> Richard @ Spencer Architects would like to know if they can provide 9x18 parking spaces in their parking garage. I can't remember, but I don't think we regulate the size of spaces inside a garage. Please pull the garage info for Traditions and our parking garage. There was also a project on Church St. in NG -2 (it might have been NG -1 -- whatever the old mud lot is?), that had a garage but never came to fruition. Please take a look at those. He'd like a call back today, then someone new will probably be confirming on Wed. From: Molly Hitchcock To: Jason Schubert Date: 4/23/2007 3:51 pm Subject: Re: Richard 713.522.1666 CC: Crissy Hard; jflo; JP; Lindsay Boyer Let's make the call: we do not regulate the size of a typical parking space within a private parking garage. Thanks! Molly From: Josh Norton To: Corrales, Fernando Date: 4/26/2007 10:44 am Subject: TAMU Hillel CC: Fogle, Ken; Hitchcock, Molly; Schubert, Jason Fernando, This e-mail is in regards to the questions you had regarding drainage and access. Drainage: This development will need to meet the minimum requirement of the most recently adopted BCS Unified Storm water Guidelines. These guidelines may be found at bcsunited.net. The increased run-off will need to be mitigated, obviously one mitigation option is to do on-site detention. This development's drainage impacts on the surrounding properties is certainly a concern. Access: Access along Dexter will not be allowed as the proposed driveway does not meet the minimum spacing requirement of 175 -ft on a minor collector. Variances to this requirement are processed through the DRB (Design Review Board). Additional information is needed regarding the existing alley (ie. ownership, size, etc.) I would also encourage communication with the adjacent property owner concerning the future of the alley. If the alley is proven to be public, one solution may be to dedicate additional ROW and improve the alley to meet the minimum public alley/fire lane standard. Let me know if you have any additional questions. 11M.,MWrOVII72.i. Josh Norton, E.I.T. Graduate Civil Engineer Public Works Department City of College Station P. O. Box 9960 College Station, Texas 77842 Ph: (979) 764-6221 Fx: (979) 764-3496 From: Peggy Calliham To: Schubert, Jason Date: 5/2/2007 3:55 pm Subject: Re: HOA contacts Actually, Glenn sent me the note and I talked with Don Reiser, the Hillel contact who was my childhood neighbor. I referred him to Bill Lancaster, who lives right behind Hillel and Gaines West, Pres. Oakwood HOA plus suggested they talk with Rector at St Thomas Episcopal. But I am attaching my current contact list for each HOA. I get updated frequently so you may want to check back if you use it again in a month or two. Thanks for your guidance today. >>> Jason Schubert 5/2/2007 3:50 PM >>> Peggy, I meant to ask you at the PAC for some HOA/neighborhood contacts we may have. I had a PAC last week for the Hillel Student Center at 800 George Bush Dr (at the intersection with Dexter). The applicant is wanting to potentially redevelop the site and has asked for neighborhood contacts in the area. It appears College Park and South Oakwood subdivisions are in the immediate vicinity. Do you have contact for these or other nearby neighborhood group? Let me know. Thanks, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jason Schubert To: fcorrales@sparchitects.com Date: 5/3/2007 1:17 pm Subject: TAMU Hillel Center proposal Fernando, It was good to be able to speak to you this morning regarding this project. As requested, I have listed contact information for the surrounding area/properties: 1) Oakwood Home Owner's Association: Ms. Gaines West, President, 979.694.7000, gaines.west@westwebblaw.com. This HOA is east and south of St. Thomas Episcopal Church. 2) We do not have a contact for the College Park subdivision (or know if one exists). This property is on the northeastern most edge of the subdivision. However, the owner of the properties immediately to the south is William (Bill) Lancaster. From the phone book, his contact information is 303 Dexter, 979.696.5256. 3) St. Thomas Episcopal Church: Rev. Bill Fowler, 979.696.1726, Church Office(&,StThomasBCS.org 4) Church of Jesus Christ of Latter -Day Saints - Institute of Religion: Tom McMullin, Director, 979.696.8202 Hopefully this information helps you develop a proposal that addresses the concerns of the neighborhood. If the Comprehensive Plan and zoning were amended and the concept plan approved, a site plan application would then need to be processed through our department. As I mentioned on the phone, because of the extent of what you are proposing, I have concerns that it will be difficult to meet all the site plan requirements in order to be approved (such as landscaping/ streetscaping in LIDO 7.5). Please take the time to review our site plan application to consider all of the implications of your proposal. As always, let me know if I can assist you further. Thanks, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: "Fernando Corrales" <fcorrales@sparchitects.com> To: "Jason Schubert" <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/15/2007 3:45 pm Subject: RE: Hillel at Texas A&M comments CC: "Gordon Spencer" <GSpencer@s parch itects.com>, "... Jason, In reading some of the comments on Document 07-00500102, you state that the re -zoning application is not the specific PDD/P-mud application that needs to be completed. This was the form given to us be the planning and development department during our previous meeting. Can you forward me the form that needs to be completed? Thanks. Fernando Corrales Spencer Partnership Architects www.sparchitects.com (713) 522-1666 (713) 522-6260 (fax) 2323 S. Shepherd, Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77019 fcorrales(a-)sparchitects.com From: Jason Schubert To: Corrales, Fernando Date: 5/15/2007 3:59 pm Subject: RE: Hillel at Texas A&M comments Fernando, I have attached the application. Besides the check boxes at the top of the first page, you will notice the only difference between the applications is a purpose statement and list of uses on the second page. As mentioned in Comment #3, please approximate the percentage of uses when listing them. Jason From: "Fernando Corrales" <fcorrales@sparchitects.com> To: "Jason Schubert" <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/17/2007 11:09 am Subject: RE: Hillel at Texas A&M comments CC: "Gordon Spencer" <GSpencer@sparchitects.com> ONE QUESTION: The comprehensive plan application asks for the land use classification of all abutting properties.... The only abutting property is the church. I am assuming it is Institutional also, is this correct? Fernando Corrales Spencer Partnership Architects www.sparchitects.com (713) 522-1666 (713) 522-6260 (fax) 2323 S. Shepherd, Ste. 800 Houston. TX 77019 fcorrales@sparchitects.com From: Jason Schubert To: Corrales, Fernando Date: 5/17/2007 11:18 am Subject: RE: Hillel at Texas A&M comments That is correct, the church to the east is also Institutional. You mentioned on the phone that contact was being made with the neighbors. I'm curious, have you or will you have a meeting or will it be only through phone/email? I know P&Z and Council will ask if you have reached out to the neighborhood and how that went. Also, do you know which of the alternatives will be chosen? Jason From: "Fernando Corrales" <fcorrales@sparchitects.com> To: "Jason Schubert" <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/17/2007 3:56 pm Subject: RE: Hillel at Texas A&M comments CC: "Gordon Spencer" <GSpencer@sparchitects.com> Jason, You have been very helpful. Thanks for all the input. We are going to go with the concept plan as a separate submittal per the current ordinance guidelines. I made the changes to the percentages per our conversation. We know exceed 20% residential and 20% non-residential. We have talked to the property owner of the land behind Hillel and have set up a meeting on May 25th to talk to the church next door. The owner is scheduling meetings with the community and I will keep you updated. Again thanks. I should have the updated drawings and forms to you on Monday. Fernando Corrales Spencer Partnership Architects www.sparchitects.com (713) 522-1666 (713) 522-6260 (fax) 2323 S. Shepherd, Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77019 fcorrales[ sparchitects.com From: "Peter Tarlow" <ptarlow@alphal .net> To: <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/18/2007 11:26 am Subject: Re: FW: Hillel Rezoning request comments I am training police in Bermuda today; home tomorrow and Will send comments (if there are any) on Sunday. Thank you! > -----Original Message----- • From: Jason Schubert [mailto:Jschubert @cstx.govl > Sent: Monday, May 14, 2007 5:07 PM > To: Hillel@startel.net > Subject: Hillel Rezoning request comments > I have been designated as the project manager for the above -referenced > Rezoning request and have attached staff comments for your review. Please > let me know if you have any questions. > Regards, > Jason > Jason Schubert > Staff Planner > Planning & Development Services > City of College Station > Phone: 979.764.3570 > Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jason Schubert To: Tarlow, Peter Date: 5/18/2007 12:51 pm Subject: Re: Hillel Rezoning request comments Rabbi Tarlow, I hope your trip is going well, sounds nice. The Hillel is the only contact listed on the applications. If you are not aware, after hearing your voicemail that the Hillel is closed for the summer I contacted the architect in Houston and forwarded the comments to them to make sure someone was aware of them. I know they have been working on them and they have likely been in contact with you. Let me know if I assist you or provide any more clarification. Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jason Schubert To: fcorrales@sparchitects.com Date: 5/18/2007 5:12 pm Subject: Hillel meeting contact Fernando, As a courtesy to our citizens, the City of College Station places signs on properties that are having an upcoming public hearing. We placed the Comp. Plan Amendment and Rezoning signs on the Hillel property this morning and I've already received a few calls regarding it. I know you mentioned that some meetings have been set up for next week. Are any of these meetings open to the neighborhood at large? If so or if not, is there a contact that I can provide regarding the proposal or the upcoming meetings? I believe this will be beneficial to appropriately address the concerns of the neighborhood. Let me know. Thanks, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: "Fernando Corrales" <fcorrales@sparchitects.com> To: "Jason Schubert" <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/21/2007 9:43 am Subject: RE: Hillel meeting contact There is an all neighborhood meeting being organized for Friday the 25 at 3:30 .... This meeting is being organized by the Owner (Hillel). Fernando Corrales Spencer Partnership Architects www.sparchitects.com (713) 522-1666 (713) 522-6260 (fax) 2323 S. Shepherd, Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77019 fcorralesC@sParchitects.com From: "Fernando Corrales" <fcorrales@ spa rchitects. com > To: "Jason Schubert' <Jschubert@cstx.gov> CC: "Gordon Spencer" <GSpencer@sparchitects.com> Date: 5/29/2007 2:28 PM Subject: 062599 Hillel Student Center and University Condos Jason, Per your conversation with Gordon Spencer, we would like to put a hold on the Hillel Student Center/University Condominium project for one month. We would like to re -schedule the planning and zoning commission meeting for July 19th and the City Council meeting for August 9th.. During this time we are reorganizing ourselves per comments made during our meeting with the civic association. Per comments made at that meeting we are removing the retail/commercial functions from the ground floor. We will re-evaluate all the percentages required for the P -Mud district before moving forward. Thanks. Fernando Corrales Spencer Partnership Architects www.sparchitects.com (713) 522-1666 (713) 522-6260 (fax) 2323 S. Shepherd, Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77019 fcorralesCabsparchitects.com From: Molly Hitchcock To: Bridgette George; Jason Schubert; Lance Simms Date: 5/31/2007 10:20 am Subject: Re: Hillel concept plan I believe it would be up to Hillel as to whether or not they wish their concept plan go as part of the rezoning ordinance. If their request remains a PDD rezoning (even if significantly altered), I do not believe that we would call it a new application and require all new fees and the concept plan. Although, I do believe that they now have the option to officially take the concept plan (maybe ask for a new, revised application, but only charge for the renotification fee?). Clear as mud?! Thanks for the reminder on the application change!! >>> Jason Schubert 5/31/2007 9:25 AM >>> Molly and Bridgette, The concept plan was officially submitted last week and I have until Monday to make comments. I think this could be an opportune time to let them know how their holding off affects their rezoning/concept plan applications. We may have to refer to Legal on these but I thought I'd ask you first. Would the concept plan now be a part of the rezoning ordinance? Or because of their application date, would the process stay the same if they don't change their request? Would a substantially change require compliance with the new amendment? I don't know if they have a preference either way. Since the concept plan amendment passed, I believe it would be in effect for the June 4th submission date. If so, I think we need to update our applications to reflect the changes. Let me know what you think. Thanks, Jason From: Jason Schubert To: Hillel@startel.net Date: 6/4/2007 5:32 pm Subject: Hillel concept plan comments CC: fcorrales@sparchitects.com I have attached comments for the above -referenced project. Since the $200 concept plan application fee was paid, the material submitted is now a formal project and I am able to provide comments regarding it. Let me know if you have any questions. Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jason Schubert To: fcorrales@sparchitects.com Date: 6/14/2007 2:25 pm Subject: Hillel project Fernando, I hadn't spoken to you in a while, it was good to talk to you. As mentioned, I have attached our submittal deadline sheet for your review. It shows the deadlines to meet corresponding P&Z and Council meetings. Here are three options for you: 1) If the project increases in land area or has a different location, we will need new applications that reflect those substantial changes and it will go to meetings based on the deadline met (i.e. June 18th for the July 19th P&Z, etc). 2) If you would like the concept plan considered with the rezoning, you still need to meet the deadline with a new application (no application fee, though legal notice fees will be assessed). 3) If you would like to proceed with the current proposal, please submit the additional information already requested by June 25th at 10am to make the July 19th meeting (along with the notice fees). You know the opposition to that proposal but it is an option for you. Sorry for the details, I'm just trying to make sure you know the available options. Let me know if you have questions. Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: "Fernando Corrales" <fcorrales@sparchitects.com> To: "Jason Schubert" <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 6/15/2007 3:46 pm Subject: RE: Hillel project CC: "Gordon Spencer" <GSpencer@sparchitects.com> Jason, Thanks for the schedule information. At the present time we are looking at our options and are having discussions with the developer and the owner in regards to what direction to take. We will need to postpone planning -zoning and city council meetings another month. We have several options. I have seen your comments on the concept plan and we will take those also into consideration in our decision. Again thanks. Fernando Corrales Spencer Partnership Architects www.sparchitects.com (713) 522-1666 (713) 522-6260 (fax) 2323 S. Shepherd, Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77019 From: Bob Cowell To: Jason Schubert Date: 6/15/2007 4:01 pm Subject: Re: Fwd: Hillel project Thanks Jason. I will forward this information to Glenn and Terry From: Jason Schubert To: fcorrales@sparchitects.com Date: 6/21/2007 11:32 am Subject: Interactive map Fernando, As requested, here is a link that will get you to the map: http://www.cstx.gov/home/index.asp?page=2000 Once on the page, click on the General Map, which will bring up a new browser with an interactive map. You can zoom into the area you are looking at. There are also various features on the tool bar such as Measure and Identify and lots of different layers you can add. Let me know if you have any questions about it. Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jason Schubert To: fcorrales@sparchitects.com Date: 7/27/2007 10:50 AM Subject: Hillel project status Fernando, How are you doing? Hopefully staying dry. Anyway, I wanted to check to see if you were still working on a proposal for the Hillel site. Either way, is the one submitted in May withdrawn and something else being work on? Let me know. Thanks, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: "Fernando Corrales" <fcorrales@sparchitects.com> To: "Jason Schubert" <Jschubert@cstx.gov> CC: "Gordon Spencer" <GSpencer@sparchitects.com> Date: 7/27/2007 11:01 AM Subject: RE: Hillel project status At the moment we are still reviewing several options. The one submitted in May could be modified if we get the property behind Aberdeen. There are several other options also. As soon as we research a conclusion we will get in contact with you. Thanks for all your help. Fernando Corrales Spencer Partnership Architects www.sparchitects.com (713) 522-1666 (713) 522-6260 (fax) 2323 S. Shepherd, Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77019 fcorrales@sparchitects.com Email Correspondence with Neighborhood/Adjacent Properties From: Jason Schubert To: ChurchOffice@StThomasBCS.org Date: 5/18/2007 5:29 pm Subject: Hillel proposal As requested, I am responding to your inquiry regarding the proposal next door at the Hillel Foundation. I have been assigned as the City's project manager for Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) and Rezoning applications they have submitted for consideration. The CPA request is to change their "Institutional" land use designation to "Planned Development." If that is approved, it would allow them to pursue a rezoning from R-1, Single -Family Residential (places of worship are allowed in all zoning districts) to P -MUD (Planned Mixed -Use District). This change will allow them to build a new facility along with condo units on the floors above. If you are not aware, their proposal is quite ambitious with a large structure. In order to be approved, there are a lot of issues that would need to be resolved beyond whether the rezoning is approved or not. You should be receiving legal notices that were sent out today to notify for a upcoming public hearing. All property owners within 200' of the proposal receive the notice. As currently scheduled, a public hearing would be held before the Planning & Zoning Commission on June 7th and before the City Council on June 28th. In speaking with the architect for the applicant, they mentioned that a meeting has been set up on May 25th with the neighborhood and also with your church. I am not aware of who they have contacted specifically but I know the Hillel Rabbi has been involved in setting things up. I hope this information has been helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions and I'll be glad to assist you. Regards, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Hugh Stearns <hugh@stearnsconstruction.biz> To: Gaines West <gaines.west@westwebblaw.com> Date: 5/21/2007 5:18 pm Subject: Re: New Building at Corner of George Bush and Dexter CC: "Barrett, Brian" <brianb@suddenlink.net>, "Barr... I just got off the phone with Jason Schubert, who is copied here. The architect and developer will meet with neighbors this Friday the 25th at the Hillel at 3:30. This is short notice and during the workday; hopefully a lot of us will be able to be there to hear what they have in mind and to express our concerns. - Hugh Stearns Gaines West wrote: > Hays Glover has just written you about a proposed project at this > location. Here is what I learned about it just today. I talked with > Jason Schubert, with the City of College Station, and he told me that a > group of investors want to build a multi -story multi -use building where > the Hillel Foundation building now stands at the corner of Dexter and > George Bush. The proposed plans filed with the City designate a > building design that would cover most of their 1 acre tract. The > building would consist of 4 floors of parking, one floor for the Hillel > Foundation and then multiple floors for condominium units. At last > count, as I understand it, they want an additional 5 floors to make the > building 157 feet in height. The "footprint" of the building on the > ground would consist of 28,000 square feet. > Mr. Schubert explained that not only would the developers have to change > the use of the property from "institutional" to "planned development," > but they would also need to change the zoning from R-1, that it is > designated now. In addition they would have to get height permission to > build a building to that level and they would have drainage, > ingress/egress issues, landscaping concerns and setback issues. > There is a hearing set before P&Z for Thursday night June 7, 2007 and > then for the Thursday June 28, 2007 City Council meeting. Fortunately > we will have our regularly scheduled Neighborhood Association meeting > which is now set for the Tuesday night the 5th of June at 7pm at the > College Station Conference Center. We can discuss this issue in more > detail at our meeting. > For now, BE SURE TO PLACE THURSDAY THE 7TH OF JUNE AND THURSDAY THE 28TH > OF JUNE ON YOUR CALENDARS. These will be important dates and meetings > for our neighborhood. > Other news: I will meet with Ben White this week concerning our > neighborhood issues and invite him to a future Oakwood Neighborhood > Association meeting. > I'm glad we have our Association chugging along so that we may provide > input into projects like the one proposed at the corner of Dexter and > George Bush Ave. Remember, we have a wonderful neighborhood and a great > opportunity to work together. I look forward to seeing you on June 5th > at 7pm in the College Station Conference Center. > If I hear more about the skyscraper project I will email you more. Gaines From: Jason Schubert To: gaines.west@westweblaw.com Date: 5/22/2007 4:58 pm Subject: New Building at Corner of George Bush and Dexter Mr. West, I am following up on two items from our conversation yesterday. First, as you know, the owner and developer have set up an open meeting at the Hillel this Friday, May 25th at 3:30pm for all to come and hear their presentation. From what I've been told, they also have a meeting scheduled with you that morning and another one with St. Thomas in the early afternoon. Hopefully these interactions will help the applicant know and address the significant concerns of their proposal. Second, you expressed a desire to obtain the materials that have been submitted by the applicant. All applications made to the City are public record and are available. You may either come and view them in person or if you would like a copy of them, an Open Records Request will need to be processed to receive them. A more convenient alternative is to view the documents on our City's website. Here's how to view them: 1) Go to www,cstx.gov; 2) Click on "Planning & Development Services" link on the left under the "I Want To..." column; 3) Click on "Submitted Projects" on the right under the "Featured Links" column; 4) The projects are alphabetized by project name, so click on the letter "T" to go to "The Hillel at Texas A&M University"; 5) You will see three projects with that title: the Comp. Plan Amendment (project #7-500103), Rezoning (# 7-500102), and Concept Plan (# 7-500126). 6) Once you click on "View Details" of the project of your choosing you may view the various materials by clicking on "Documents" in the left-hand column. I believe that reviewing the applications for all three will be of interest to you. Also, a conceptual rendering of the building is in the Comp Plan project within the "Supporting Documents/Drawings" document. Hopefully this information has been helpful to you. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jason Schubert To: gaines.west@westwebblaw.com Date: 5/23/2007 8:26 am Subject: Proposal at Corner of George Bush and Dexter I attempted to send this to you yesterday but it was undeliverable because I mistyped your address with only one "b." Jason From: "Gaines West" <gaines.west@westwebblaw.com> To: "Jason Schubert" <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/23/2007 3:11 pm Subject: RE: Proposal at Corner of George Bush and Dexter Thanks gw From: <Mailer-Daemon@GROUPWISE.cstx.gov> To: <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/23/2007 11:57 am Subject: Message status - undeliverable The message that you sent was undeliverable to the following rhschlofs@tamu.edu (550 <rhschlofs(a-�tamu.edu>: Recipient address rejected: U ser unknown in local recipient table) Possibly truncated original message follows: College Station. Heart of the Research Valley. From: Jason Schubert To: rhschlofs@tamu.edu Date: 5/23/2007 11:53 am Subject: Proposal at the corner of George Bush & Dexter Rebecca, I thought I'd go ahead and email you this information too. It sounds like that you have contacts in College Park/West Park that the City does not have since that area does not have a HOA/Neighborhood Association registered with the City. To reiterate, two public hearings have been scheduled regarding the Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezoning proposals. They are: Planning & Zoning Commission: June 7th at 7pm in City Hall Council Chambers City Council: June 28th at 7pm in City Hall Council Chambers I sent the following information to Gaines West this morning and I thought it might be helpful if I forward this information. First, the Hillel and developer have set up an open meeting at the Hillel this Friday, May 25th at 3:30pm for all to come and hear their presentation. Hopefully this interaction will help the applicant know and address the significant concerns being expressed about their proposal. Second, all applications made to the City are public record and are available. You may either come and view them in person or if you would like a copy of them, an Open Records Request will need to be processed to receive them. A more convenient alternative is to view the documents on our City's website. Here's how to view them: 1) Go to www.cstx.gov; 2) Click on "Planning & Development Services" link on the left under the "I Want To..." column; 3) Click on "Submitted Projects" on the right under the "Featured Links" column; 4) The projects are alphabetized by project. name, so click on the letter "T" to go to "The Hillel at Texas A&M University"; 5) You will see three projects with that title: the Comp. Plan Amendment (project #7-500103), Rezoning (# 7-500102), and Concept Plan (# 7-500126). 6) Once you click on "View Details" of the project of your choosing you may view the various materials by clicking on "Documents" in the left-hand column. I believe that reviewing the applications for all three will be of interest to you. Also, a conceptual rendering of the building is in the Comp Plan project within the "Supporting Documents/Drawings" document. Hopefully this information has been helpful. Let me know if you have any questions. Regards, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jeannie/Jeannette McCandless <jeanniewmc@yahoo.com> To: <jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/23/2007 6:55 pm Subject: Proposed Rezoning for Multi -use Structure We want to express our opposition to what we have been told would be involved in the structure that is being proposed at the corner of George Bush Drive and Dexter. Although we have been given slightly different information about what all would be include in the structure the recurring theme is provisions for multiple floors for parking, one floor for the Hillel Foundation, perhaps a floor for retail stores and multiple floors of condominiums rising to a height of 157 feet. The site is less than one acre in size and is adjacent to a church and a day school for young children. This entire area has constricted space available for vehicular traffic at this time. Aberdeen is a very short narrow street with access to Dexter and it is a lot size portion portion before Dexter intersects George Bush Drive. This proposed building is totally inappropriate at this location. There are so many concerns with size, height, traffic, safety and appropriateness of this structure in that location that we could spend literally pages in expressing all of the concerns and objections that we have. Suffice it to say, we find it incredulous that anyone would consider this a viable proposal. Jeannie and Charles McCandless 310 Suffolk Avenue College Station, TX 77840-3020 979-710-4061 979-255-9737 Jeannie/Jeannette From: Jason Schubert To: McCandless, Jeannie/Jeannette Date: 5/24/2007 8:28 am Subject: Re: Proposed Rezoning for Multi -use Structure Mrs. McCandless, Thank you for sharing your concerns with me. I agree that there are significant issues with what they are proposing. I have provided Mr. West some information that I hope has been able circulate through the neighborhood. The Hillel has scheduled an open meeting for all interested parties to hear their proposal. It has been scheduled for tomorrow, May 25th, at 3:30pm at the Hillel. While this is their meeting, I plan to be in attendance to observe how they address the concerns that you have expressed. Again, thank you for taking the time to share them with me and I will probably see you at some point in the process. Regards, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jeannie/Jeannette McCandless <jeanniewmc@yahoo.com> To: Jason Schubert <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/24/2007 12:44 pm Subject: Re: Proposed Rezoning for Multi -use Structure We want to express our appreciation for providing information on how we could access the supporting documentation for the proposed changes. It certainly gives us a better understand of what they are proposing and does absolutely nothing to diminish our concerns. Thank you, Jeannie McCandless From: "john price" <john-price@verizon.net> To: <jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/24/2007 4:59 pm Subject: Hillel Project CC: <gaines.west@westwebblaw. com>, "Mike Deutsch" <... Mr. Schubert: My family and I have lived in the Southside Historic District since 2004 and will soon complete the renovation of our new home at 716 Park Place. We have chosen to remain in this area because it is a real neighborhood. The people are friendly, know each other and watch out for each other, especially the older residents. On any evening you can find people walking and stopping to talk to their neighbors. Many residents are third or fourth generation. The majority of the residents are University Faculty or employees - either active or retired, business owners and professional people. Southside is one of the few areas in College Station that has large, beautiful trees and despite its proximity to George Bush is remarkably quiet. It is the oldest residential neighborhood in College Station. The beauty and attractiveness of the neighborhood has led many people to renovate homes that were originally built in the 1930s - before College Station was even a city. Our neighborhood has long been a selling point for attracting people to relocate to College Station. The proposed Hillel Foundation project at George Bush and Dexter is completely inappropriate given the character of the Southside area. The building as designed constitutes an unwarranted invasion of the privacy of the surrounding properties, will lower property values throughout the neighborhood and exacerbate a growing noise, traffic and parking problem on George Bush Drive and the Southside streets that lead to it. The number of waivers and changes in zoning that will be required to accomodate the project are not justifiable given the limited number of parties who will benefit versus the large number of property owners who will be hurt. We do not understand why Hillel would choose to alienate the neighborhood with whom they have coexisted for years, but that is what will happen if they press forward with their plans. It would be sad, indeed, if a city that is home to one of the most tradition -oriented Universities in the country were to ignore its own history. John R. Price 306 Lee Avenue College Station, Texas From: Sandi Hoekstra <sandihoek@yahoo.com> To: <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/25/2007 3:01 pm Subject: Hillel property proposed change Jason: My husband, Bruce, and I live at 210 Lee Avenue. We have lived in College Station for almost five years and were delighted to find a house in this small historic district. While I understand that the city recently has said that these few blocks off George Bush Drive do not have a historic district designation, the area is charming with many homes exhibiting pre -WW2 styles. To rezone a property in this neighborhood at George Bush Drive and Dexter will negatively affect the desirability of the homes in this area, as well as their property values. We are AGAINST the rezoning of the property on which the Hillel Foundation currently owns a building. A building of this size will have a dramatic impact on the traffic flow and life style of the existing neighborhood residents. Sincerely, Sandi and Bruce Hoekstra 210 Lee Ave. From: <JCB2AM@aol.com> To: <jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/27/2007 3:03 pm Subject: Hillel construction Mr. Schubert, I own the house at 304 West Dexter in the historical area of College Station. I have recently become aware of Hillel requesting permission from the City of College Station to tear down there current building and build an 11 or 12 story building in its place. I am vehemently opposed to this plan. The historical integrity of the Southside community will be severely damaged if they are allowed to do this. The building would be an eyesore for those of us who live in Southside and it will also create a huge traffic problem on Dexter and George Bush Drive. College Station should do whatever is necessary to protect the history of Southside for future generations. Thank you, Joni Cope 304 West Dexter College Station (281)794-2324 From: <AgingPach02@aol.com> To: <jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/27/2007.7:13 pm Subject: Hillel zoning CC: <chris@chrisscotti.com> I have a home at 600 W. Dexter that is a historic home. I would like to voice my opinion about the rezoning of the property at the corner of George Bush and Dexter. A building of the type that Hillel is proposing does not fit in the historic district and will adversely effect the traffic that already is difficult. It will also negatively effect the property values of the homes that many of us have worked so hard to preserve. We are all proud of our homes and have tried to maintain them so as to keep the historic value for ourselves, fellow citizens, visitors, and the city. This rezoning would not be for the better and would not fit in the district. I urge the city to deny the rezoning. Thank you, Rick and Candy Cashen '02 From: Chris Scotti To: AgingPach02@aol.com Date: 5/30/2007 12:54 am Subject: Re: FW: Hillel zoning CC: jschubert@cstx.gov Hi Rick, I just wanted to let you know I got this and noted your concerns. I didn't realize your house was right there. As this gets closer to the actual decision, I will undoubtedly contact you as a resource in evaluating this. p.s. I forwarded this to, and replied from my cstx.gov address for Open Records Act reasons. Thanks, Chris >>> "Chris Scotti" <chrisCaD.chrisscotti.com> 05/29/07 11:43 PM >>> From: AgingPach02 aol.com [mailto:AgingPach02 aol.com] Sent: Sunday, May 27, 2007 7:12 PM To: ischubert@cstx.gov Cc: Chris Scotti Subject: Hillel zoning I have a home at 600 W. Dexter that is a historic home. I would like to voice my opinion about the rezoning of the property at the corner of George Bush and Dexter. A building of the type that Hillel is proposing does not fit in the historic district and will adversely effect the traffic that already is difficult. It will also negatively effect the property values of the homes that many of us have worked so hard to preserve. We are all proud of our homes and have tried to maintain them so as to keep the historic value for ourselves, fellow citizens, visitors, and the city. This rezoning would not be for the better and would not fit in the district. I urge the city to deny the rezoning. Thank you, Rick and Candy Cashen '02 From: Jason Schubert To: gaines.west@westwebblaw.com Date: 5/29/2007 4:25 pm Subject: Hillel proposal postponed Mr. West, As per the correspondence below, the Hillel proposal has been postponed from the June 7th meeting. They are postponing until at least the July 19th meeting. As has already been sent out, legal notification will be sent out again when the meeting date has been set. Please forward this information to the neighborhood association and anyone else that has been notified. I would also encourage continued communication with the applicant to help facilitate another site or other acceptable alternatives. Let me know if you would still like to meet tomorrow morning. Regards, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 >>> "Fernando Corrales" <fcorrales ansparchitects.com> 5/29/2007 2:27:26 pm »> Jason, Per your conversation with Gordon Spencer, we would like to put a hold on the Hillel Student Center/University Condominium project for one month. We would like to re -schedule the planning and zoning commission meeting for July 19th and the City Council meeting for August 9th. During this time we are reorganizing ourselves per comments made during our meeting with the civic association. Per comments made at that meeting we are removing the retail/commercial functions from the ground floor. We will re-evaluate all the percentages required for the P -Mud district before moving forward. Thanks. Fernando Corrales Spencer Partnership Architects www.sparchitects.com (713) 522-1666 (713) 522-6260 (fax) 2323 S. Shepherd, Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77019 fcorrales(@sparchitects.com From: "Gaines West" <gaines.west@westwebblaw.com> To: "Jason Schubert' <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/30/2007 8:25 am Subject: RE: Hillel proposal postponed Thanks Jason - yes I would still like to meet. I will see you at 10:30am. gaines Gaines West gaines.westC@westwebblaw.com From: "Nadine Stuth" <nrstuth@hotmail.com> To: <jchubert@cstx.gov> Date: 5/30/2007 6:08 pm Subject: Hillel Center Proposal Hello, I am a resident of West Dexter near the Hillel Center at the corner of George Bush and Dexter. Upon returning from a three week trip I discovered a printed copy of an email mixed in with my mail. This paper stated that the Hillel Center has applied for a change in zoning to enable the Center to construct a 12 story building on the corner of George Bush and Dexter. I find this almost unimaginable as that seems such a small site for such a large building. If this is a real proposal and you are soliciting neighborhood feedback I want to add my name to the list of those opposed to this proposal. The destruction of the "Historic District" and the increased traffic congestion plus just the aesthetics of such a large building towering over its neighbors and crammed on to such a small land area make this an idea that needs to be shelved or moved elsewhere. Nadine R Stuth 506 West Dexter College Station, Texas 77840 From: Jason Schubert To: cooperl @cullums.org Date: 6/5/2007 12:03 pm Subject: email test Jerry, As requested, here is my email. I'll let you know of any developments with the Hillel project if they choose to proceed. Let me know if you have any questions in the meantime. Thanks, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jerry Cooper <cooperl @cullums.org> To: Jason Schubert <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 6/5/2007 12:17 pm Subject: Re: email test Came through in fine style. Thanks for keeping me informed. Jerry C. From: "Gaines West" <gaines.west@westwebblaw.com> To: "Jason Schubert" <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 6/8/2007 9:20 am Subject: FW: Thank you for your forthrightness. Jason, here is a copy of an email I sent to Rabbi Tarlow as the result of our Oakwood Neighborhood Association meeting last Tuesday evening - and his response to me. The Oakwood Neighborhood Association also intends to oppose the City staff recommendation that the use of the Hillel tract be changed to Planned Development. We believe that there are no compelling reasons that have been expressed thus far for the Comprehensive Plan to be changed. Thank you for providing information to me. I will continue to discuss our position openly and I will be happy to meet with anyone concerning these issues. gaines Gaines West gaines.west(a).westwebblaw.com From: Rabbi Peter Tarlow [mailto: ptarlow(cDstartel. net] Sent: Thursday, June 07, 2007 6:52 PM To: Gaines West Cc: dreiser(a)gydr.com Subject: Thank you for your forthrightness. I want to thank you for your forthrightness and openness. I too enjoyed our conversation at your office. We are currently examining all of our options. Once again, I want to thank you for being so expressive. B'shalom/In peace, Peter Tarlow Rabbi Tarlow, the Oakwood Neighborhood Association met last Tuesday evening the 5th of June. The Association has authorized me, as its President, after a discussion and vote, to notify the City of College Station that the Association is opposed to your project as previously outlined and presented. Our opposition will be to the Change of Use designation from "Institutional/Religious" to "Planned Development". The Association believes that the reasoning that you put forward, in support of your previously proposed project, does not warrant a change of the City's Comprehensive Plan. The Oakwood Neighborhood Association will also oppose a zoning change should the Change of Use be recommended by the P&Z Commission and approved by the City Council. I understand that the project that you previously proposed has been withdrawn and that another application with similar parameters and proposals will soon be submitted to the City so that the P&Z Commission can consider your application for a Change of Use on July 19, 2007. If your new proposal involves condominium units, and or other commercial uses, the Oakwood Neighborhood Association will strongly oppose any use and/or zoning change. The Oakwood Neighborhood Association believes that upgrading your current facility for a use consistent with what it has been used for over the last 50 + years would of course be welcome, so long as any such improvement fits the use and zoning parameters now in existence. We want to remain good neighbors and encourage uses for our neighborhood that are consistent with the historic single family residential character of our neighborhood. Your project has unified our neighborhood efforts to work together to be certain that what we now enjoy, and have shared with you as a good neighbor through the years, will continue unabated in the future. Thank you for the courtesy of coming to my office on Thursday May 24, 2007 to discuss your proposal. I enjoyed meeting you and I hope that your new proposal that you intend on presenting to the City will be scaled back to include a use that is consistent with current parameters. If it does not we as a Neighborhood Association will have no other option than to vigorously oppose your request. For your information other homeowners from neighborhoods West of our Association also attended our meeting. In fact we had two such meetings to discuss your previous proposal and at each meeting, in spite of my invitation for any neighborhood home owner to speak in favor of your proposal, no one came forward to support it as it was configured in your last application. Therefore, in addition to the Oakwood Neighborhood Association I anticipate that there will be numerous homeowners in the immediate area who will also register their opposition to your project should it resemble the proposal you previously made. I will always be open to meet with you at your convenience about any of these issues. Gaines West, President of Oakwood Neighborhood Association and Homeowner at 200 Suffolk, College Station, Texas. Gaines West West, Webb, Allbritton & Gentry, P.C. 1515 Emerald Plaza College Station, Texas 77845 phone: 979-694-7000 fax: 979-694-8000 IMPORTANT NOTICE: This electronic message, including any attachments, is covered by the Electronic Communication Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C. §§ 2510-2521, is CONFIDENTIAL, and may be protected by the ATTORNEY- CLIENT PRIVILEGE. This message is intended only for the persons or entities to which it is addressed. If you are not one of the intended recipients, please immediately delete or destroy all electronic and paper copies of this message in your possession and notify the sender at gaines.west(a)westwebblaw.com<maiIto: cindy.may(cDwestwebblaw.com> or at (979) 694-7000. Any disclosure of privileged material in this message is inadvertent and does not constitute a waiver of the privilege. Any dissemination, distribution, copying, use of, or reliance upon information contained in this message by or to anyone other than the designated recipient is unauthorized and strictly prohibited. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: Any tax opinion or advice contained in this e-mail, or in any attachment hereto, is not a "Reliance Opinion" as that term is described in IRS Circular 230, Section 10.35, and is not intended or written to be used, and it cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer, or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any matters addressed herein. B'shalom u-vrachah, In peace and blessings, Rabbi Peter Tarlow (979) 764-8402 (home) (979) 696-7313 (office) From: "Gaines West" <gaines.west@westwebblaw.com> To: <g brown @cstx. gov> Date: 6/8/2007 9:41 am Subject: FW: Thank you for your forthrightness. Glen, I am forwarding you a copy of my email to Rabbi Tarlow on behalf of our Oakwood Neighborhood Association, and his reply to me. I have also forwarded this communication to Jason Schubert. The Oakwood Neighborhood Association, and our neighbors to the West on Dexter and beyond Brison Park, have had two joint meetings on the proposal made by the Hillel Foundation. My email to Rabbi Tarlow is the result of those meetings. We consider this a very serious issue for our neighborhood and it is yet one more reason why we believe we need a Historic Designation Ordinance in College Station so that these kinds of projects, along George Bush Drive in our vicinity, can't even begin to be considered. Most importantly we believe that a Change of Use is not warranted to the City's Comprehensive Plan that would change the use of the Hillel Foundation property to Planned Development. Jason Schubert has expressed to me that City Staff is considering supporting a recommendation for a Change of Use for the Hillel property, but at the same time the Staff is considering opposing any change in the zoning restrictions. Our neighbors, and the Oakwood Neighborhood Association, want the City to be clear that we will vigorously oppose any attempt to change the use of the Hillel Foundation property from the designation it has been assigned in the City's Comprehensive Plan. Absolutely no compelling reason has been put forward that would support such a change. Our intent is to remain good neighbors with the Hillel Foundation, and all of the property users surrounding our single family neighborhood, who consistently use their property in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan and the zoning restrictions. We hope that this challenge to the Hillel Foundation plans will foster neighborhood goals that are consistent with the long and established traditions for this historic heart of old College Station. One positive result that has occurred thus far is that our neighborhood has come together like never before to work to preserve and protect the uniqueness of the environment that exists in our neighborhood today. Please accept this information as an update to our ongoing concern over the plans previously proposed by the Hillel group. I would be pleased to meet at any time concerning these issues. gaines Gaines West gaines.west6a�westwebblaw.com From: Jason Schubert To: cooper1 @cullums.org; gaines.west@westwebblaw.com Date: 6/26/2007 5:19 pm Subject: status of Hillel proposal Gentlemen, As promised, I would keep you updated on the status of the Hillel proposal. They have not submitted any revisions for our review and have missed the deadline to make the July 19th Planning & Zoning Commission meeting. They have informed me, however, that they are still working on a new proposal. I will let you know if a new proposal is submitted and what meetings that would be scheduled for. Regards, Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: "Gaines West" <gaines.west@westwebblaw.com> To: "Jason Schubert" <Jschubert@cstx.gov>, <cooper1... Date: 6/26/2007 5:34 pm Subject: RE: status of Hillel proposal Thank you Jason. gainer Gaines West gaines.west6a' westwebblaw.com From: Jerry Cooper <cooper1@cullums.org> To: Jason Schubert <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 6/26/2007 5:38 pm Subject: Re: status of Hillel proposal Thanks, Jason. Jerry C. From: Jerry Cooper <cooper1 @cullums.org> To: Jason Schubert <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 9/11/2007 10:53 PM Subject: Re: status of Hillel proposal Jason, Just want to make sure I am informed if the Hillel Board submits any revised plans for their property at George Bush and Dexter. Jerry Cooper 602 Bell St. From: Jason Schubert To: Cooper, Jerry Date: 9/12/2007 8:16 AM Subject: Re: status of Hillel proposal Jerry, I have not heard any more regarding the proposal and no revisions have been submitted. The last I heard was actually from Mr. Gaines West who stated that he had bought (or was buying) from Bill Lancaster three of the lots just south of Aberdeen. I knew Hillel was looking at potentially expanding their area to lower the height but I'm not sure if those purchases would end up killing their proposal. I will let you know if there is any more action on this item. Jason Jason Schubert Staff Planner Planning & Development Services City of College Station Phone: 979.764.3570 Fax: 979.764.3496 From: Jerry Cooper <cooperl @cullums.org> To: Jason Schubert <Jschubert@cstx.gov> Date: 9/12/2007 9:01 AM Subject: Re: status of Hillel proposal Thanks, Jason. Appreciate the update. Jerry C. From: Jerry Cooper <cooperl @cullums.org> To: Jason Schubert <Jschubert@cstx.gov> CC: Gaines West <gaines.west@westwebblaw.com> Date: 9/4/2008 1:20 PM Subject: [Fwd: FW: Please read - Concernin Hillel] Attachments: Hillel Bldg.jpg Jason, I just got the following from Gaines West with the photo attachment. Has Hillel approached the city yet with anything on this? If not, can you tell me if they would be allowed to build their wall clear out to a sidewalk width from Dexter? This seems to take it onto city property. Can you confirm this for me? Jerry Cooper 696-3963 -------- Original Message-------- Subject:FW: Please read - Concernin Hillel Date:Thu, 4 Sep 2008 11:44:38 -0500 From:Gaines West <gaines.west(o)westwebblaw.com> CC:Jerry Cooper <cooper1(cDcullums.orq> I thought this would be of interest. I have been on their email distribution list for sometime so this came to me in the ordinary course of emails that I get from Hillel. gaines Gaines West gaines.west(o)westwebblaw.com From: Rabbi Peter Tarlow [mailto:ptarlow startel.net] Sent: Thursday, September 04, 2008 11:17 AM To: Recipient List Suppressed Subject: Please read As many of you know, our Hillel is in the process of raising money so that our students will have a new Hillel facility to perpetuate Jewish life on the Texas A&M campus. The following letter was written by Don Reiser who is a former Texas A&M student and heading our fund-raising committee. Please take a few moments to read it and then to pass it onto friends. Even if you are not Jewish or are not an Aggie, your support will be greatly appreciated. I do not like to send requests for money and hope that you understand that is an exception to the rule. I hope this note finds you well. As you can see from the attached rendering for a new Texas A&M Hillel building, life in Aggieland is very busy. College Station just doesn't look like it once did "in the good old days." G'd willing, neither will Texas A&M Hillel. If you can find your way to help with funds for the new building, I would be so grateful. This has been a large task, greater than any of us thought it would be. One of our former students, Mr. Izzy Schepps, has given a challenge grant of $1.5 million. Hillel has until October 1 st to raise another $2.5 million in cash. The new building will be over twice the size of the current one. There are now 1,500 Jewish students at TAMU, a far cry from the few hundred of the past. We need to provide a new home for this growing group. The new building was designed, pro bono, by an old friend of Don Reiser, JW Wood. Don has noted that Mr. Wood is not Jewish, but understands that a 21 st Century building would be a great addition to Aggieland. So any help would be appreciated and all contributions are tax deductible. Please send all contributions to Texas A&M Hillel 800 George Bush Drive College Station, Texas, 77840 Thank you Jason, I just got the following from Gaines West with the photo attachment. Has Hillel approached the city yet with anything on this? If not, can you tell me if they would be allowed to build their wall clear out to a sidewalk width from Dexter? This seems to take it onto city property. Can you confirm this for me? Jerry Cooper 696-3963 -------- Original Message-------- Subject:FW: Please read - Concernin Hillel Date:Thu, 4 Sep 2008 11:44:38 -0500 From:Gaines West <gaines.west@westwebblaw.com> CC:Jerry Cooper <cooperl (@cullums.org> I thought this would be of interest. I have been on their email distribution list for sometime so this came to me in the ordinary course of emails that I get from Hillel. gaines Gaines West gaines.west(a)westwebblaw.com From: Rabbi Peter Tarlow [mai Ito: ptarlow .starte[.netl Sent: Thursday, September 04, 2008 11:17 AM To: Recipient List Suppressed Subject: Please read As many of you know, our Hillel is in the process of raising money so that our students will have a new Hillel facility to perpetuate Jewish life on the Texas A&M campus. The following letter was written by Don Reiser who is a former Texas A&M student and heading our fund-raising committee. Please take a few moments to read it and then to pass it onto friends. Even if you are not Jewish or are not an Aggie, your support will be greatly appreciated. I do not like to send requests for money and hope that you understand that is an exception to the rule. I hope this note finds you well. As you can see from the attached rendering for a new Texas A&M Hillel building, life in Aggieland is very busy. College Station just doesn't look like it once did "in the good old days." G'd willing, neither will Texas A&M Hillel. If you can find your way to help with funds for the new building, I would be so grateful. This has been a large task, greater than any of us thought it would be. One of our former students, Mr. Izzy Schepps, has given a challenge grant of $1.5 million. Hillel has until October 1st to raise another $2.5 million in cash. The new building will be over twice the size of the current one. There are now 1,500 Jewish students at TAMU, a far cry from the few hundred of the past. We need to provide a new home for this growing group. The new building was designed, pro Bono, by an old friend of Don Reiser, JW Wood. Don has noted that Mr. Wood is not Jewish, but understands that a 21 st Century building would be a great addition to Aggieland. So any help would be appreciated and all contributions are tax deductible. Please send all contributions to Texas A&M Hillel 800 George Bush Drive College Station, Texas, 77840 Thank you B'shalom u-vrachah, In peace and blessings, Rabbi Peter Tarlow (979) 764-8402 (home) (979) 696-7313 (office) B'shalom u-vrachah, In peace and blessings, Rabbi Peter Tarlow (979) 764-8402 (home) (979) 696-7313 (office)