HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutesMINUTES
Planning and Zoning Commission
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS
June 15, 2000
AGENDA ITEM NO. 7: Public hearing and consideration of a rezoning for the
Benjamin Knox Gallery to be located on Lots lA 17, and 18 of the College Heights
subdivision, on the north side of University Drive between Nimitz Street and
MacArthur Street. (00-95)
Agenda Item No. 7 was moved forward on the Agenda as Item No. 4.
Senior Planner Kuenzel presented the staff report. The College Heights area was platted
as a residential subdivision. Over time, the lots fronting on University Drive became
commercial, larger lots to general commercial and smaller lots to less intense commercial
districts. The subject lots were rezoned A-P to allow limited commercial uses. The
subject property is currently zoned A-P Administrative/Professional, which would allow
an art gallery but would not permit a retail framing shop or restaurants on site. The
applicant is proposing to relocate his gallery to the site, and is proposing a framing shop
and on-premise consumption of food and beverage, most likely in the form of an ice
cream shop and/or coffee shop. In order to assure that other more intense commercial
uses would not be located in the future on these lots that were originally designed for
residential uses, Staff recommended that the applicant submit a request for a PDD rather
than a standard commercial district.
As with all PDD's, there are building elevation drawings and a conceptual site plan that
are subject to the PNZ and Council review. The plan shows 3 buildings fronting on
University Drive with associated parking to the rear. Access will be taken via two
driveways, one each off of MacArthur and Nimitz. The main building will be fashioned
as a replica of the original College Station train depot, and the applicant intends to place a
locomotive and boxcars on tracks in front of the site.
The uses proposed would be consistent with other area uses along University Drive,
which include office, restaurant, financial institutions, and general retail. On small sites
such as the one included in this request, the City has allowed only limited commercial
uses. The requested proposal would be consistent with this policy. Staff recommends
approval of the rezoning. Senior Planner Kuenzel also stated that there has been no
opposition to this rezoning request.
With regard to both entrances to the property being directly off Texas Avenue,
Commissioner Warren asked Staff what comments about cross traffic and any future
barrier in the east and west lanes of Texas Avenue.
Senior Planner Kuenzel said that the Staff looked at the differences between the existing
zoning and the proposed zoning and because of the nature of the proposed use and the
fact that the density would be restricted the traffic intensity is less as compared to other
possible A-P use types.
Benjamin Knox, 500 Francis, College Station presented his proposed plans for the gallery
to the Planning & Zoning Commission. He submitted documents which included an
initial conceptual plan as well as future plans for the site that would enhance the
architectural integrity.
Commissioner Mooney asked Mr. Knox if there were any plans for shrubs and greenery
on the north side of the site at MacArthur and also asked him about lighting. Mr. Knox
said that he planned to plant trees and place lighting in the area as well. Additionally,
Commissioner Mooney asked Mr. Knox his plans regarding the type of materials to be
used in constructing Buildings B and C of Phase 2. Mr. Knox stated that those plans are
being made at this time. He said that he desires to use materials that have architectural
characteristics that will enhance the appearance of the Depot as well.
Chairman Rife explained the need for clarification and commitment of the materials that
are going to be used.
Mr. Knox said that wood and stone would be used as much as possible, keeping to the
honest characteristics of the materials of the Depot. He assured the Commission that the
other buildings would be compatible and complimentary to the Depot, i.e. arched
window(s), plaster, overhangs, and flat roofs.
Chairman Rife opened the public hearing
Chairman Rife closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Parker motioned for the approval of the rezoning and conceptual plan as
presented with the additional plans regarding any ancillary buildings as being in
compliance with the landscape ordinance and to be consistent with the written, visual,
and verbal presentation to include lighting considerations as directed by Staff.
Commissioner Warren seconded the motion which passed 6-0.
~•
STAFF REPORT
Item: Public hearing and consideration of a rezoning for the Benjamin Knox Gallery to
be located on Lots lA, 17, and 18 of the College Heights subdivision, on the north side of
University Drive between Nimitz Street and Macarthur Street. (0-95)
Applicant: Benjamin Knox
Item Summary: The subject property is currently zoned A-P
Administrative/Professional, which would allow an art gallery but would not permit a
retail framing shop or restaurants on site. The applicant is proposing to relocate his
gallery to the site, and is proposing a framing shop and on-premise consumption of food
and beverage, most likely in the form of an ice cream shop and/or coffee shop. In order
to assure that other more intense commercial uses would not be located in the future on
these lots that were originally designed for residential uses, Staff recommended that the
applicant submit a request for a PDD rather than a standard commercial district.
As with all PDD's, there are building elevation drawings and a conceptual site plan that
are subject to the PNZ and Council review. These are included in the applicant's
submittal package. In summary, the plan shows 3 buildings fronting on University Drive
with associated parking to the rear. Access will be taken via two driveways, one each off
of Macarthur and Nimitz. The main building will be fashioned as a replica of the original
College Station train depot, and the applicant intends to place a locomotive and box cars
on tracks in front of the site.
The uses proposed would be consistent with other area uses along University Drive,
which include office, restaurant, financial institutions, and general retail. On smaller sites
such as the one included in this request, the City has allowed only limited commercial
uses. The requested proposal would be consistent with this policy.
Item Background: The College Heights area was platted many years ago as a residential
subdivision. Over time, the lots fronting on University Drive became commercial, larger
lots to general commercial and smaller lots to less intense commercial districts. The
subject lots were rezoned A-P many years ago to allow limited commercial uses.
Staff Recommendations: Staff recommends approval of the rezoning.
Related Advisory Board Recommendations: NA
J:IPZTEXTIPZ03225. DOC
Commission Action Options: The Commission acts as a recommending body on the
question of rezoning, which will be ultimately decided by City Council. The
Commission options are:
1. Recommend approval of rezoning as submitted;
2. Recommend approval with physical conditions that will mitigate negative impacts;
3. Recommend a less intense zoning classification;
4. Recommend denial;
5. Table indefinitely; or,
6. Defer action to a specified date.
Supporting Materials:
1. Location Map
2. Application
3. Infrastructure and Facilities
4. Copy of Concept Plan package
J: IPZTEXTIPZ03225. DOC
INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES
Water: There are two 6" waterlines that exist in Macarthur and Nimitz that are
adequate to serve the proposed development.
Sewer: There is a 6" sewerline in Nimitz and a 6" sewerline that exists along
University Drive with adequate capacity to serve the proposed development.
Streets: University Drive is a major arterial and the two side streets are
residential streets. There is currently a platted but undeveloped alley that exists
between and parallel to Macarthur and Nimitz that will need to be abandoned to
facilitate the proposed development.
Off-site Easements: None proposed at this time. Current City policy is to
require abandonments of entire alleyways rather than sections of one.
Drainage: Will be required to meet drainage ordinance with the site plan
submittal.
Flood Plain: None on site.
Oversize request: None at this time.
Impact Fees: None in this area.
NOTIFICATION:
Legal Notice Publication(s): The Eagle; 5-31-00 and 6-7-00
Advertised Commission Hearing Dates(s): 6-15-00
Advertised Council Hearing Dates: 6-22-00
Number of Notices Mailed to Property Owners Within 200': 17
Response Received: None as of date of staff report
J: IPZTEXTIPZ03225. DOC
Auenda Item No. 13.3 -Public hearing, discussion and possible action on adopting an
ordinance amending the City of College Station 1999-2000 Budget by $2,575,900 in various
funds.
Director of Budget Jeff Kersten presented this item. He stated that this Budget Amendment is to
increase appropriations for the items listed below by a total of $2,575,900 in the City of College
Station FY 1999-2000 budget.
1. Pay Plan Adjustments - $437,300
2. FM 2818 Crepe Myrtle Project $120,000
3. BVSWMA Projects $960,000
4. FY 1999 projects deferred to FY 2000 - $466,000
5. Northgate Promenade and parking Lot Cleanup - $20,400
6. Brazos Valley Groundwater Conservation District Fees - $59,100
7. Sanitation disposal Fees - $110,000
8. Electric Facilities payment - $403,100
The Charter of the City of College Station provides for the City Council to amend the annual
budget in the event there are revenues available to cover increased expenditures and after calling
and holding a public hearing on such budget amendment.
Staff recommended adoption of the ordinance amending the City of College Station budget
appropriations by $2,575,900.
Mayor Pro Tem Mariott opened the public hearing. No one spoke. He closed the public hearing.
Councilman Massey made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 2455 adopting the Budget
Amendment Ordinance. Motion seconded by Councilman Garner. Motion carried 5-0.
Auenda Item No. 13.4 -- Public hearing, discussion and .possible action on a rezoning
ordinance for Benjamin Knox Gallery to be located on Lots lA, 17 and 18 of the College
Heights subdivision, on the north side of University between Nimitz Street and MacArthur
Street.
Senior Planner Sabine Kuenzel presented this item. She stated that the property is currently
zoned A-P AdministrativelProfessional, which would allow an art gallery but would not permit a
retail framing shop or restaurants on the site. Benjamin Knox proposed to relocate his gallery to
the site and also proposed a framing shop and on-premise consumption of food and beverage,
most likely in the form of an ice cream and/or coffee shop. In order to assure that other more
intense commercial uses would not be located in the future on these lots that were originally
designed for residential uses, staff recommended that the applicant submit a request for a PDD
instead of a standard commercial district. Two driveways, one on MacArthur and one on
Nimitz, will serve as access to the property. The main building will be fashioned as a replica of
the Original College Station train depot and the applicant intends to place a locomotive and
boxcars on tracks in front of the site. The uses proposed would be consistent with other area
uses along
Council Meetings 6/22/00
Page 9
Providing Customer Service Excellence
Office of the City Secretary
College Station, Texas
University Drive, which include office, restaurant, financial institutions, and general retail. On
smaller sites such as the one included in this request, the City allowed only limited commercial
uses. The requested proposal would be consistent with this policy.
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval with three conditions. The
conditions are landscaping between the parking and the residential homes, lighting oriented tc-
University Drive and commercial areas, and Building C and D coordinate with the style with t:he
depot.
Staff also recommended approval of the rezoning.
Mayor Pro Tem Mariott opened the public hearing.
Benjamin Knox addressed the council. He stated that his plans are to create a replica of the
depot as a gallery. The purpose of the College Station Depot will be to serve the community and
Texas A&M University as a cultural landmark. It will permanently house the Benjamin Knox
Gallery and International Headquarters and also promote fine art in the Brazos Valley. A small
old-fashioned ice cream parlor and visitor center would compliment the function of the gallery.
Construction is scheduled for August 1, 2000 and the completion and dedication of the project is
October 2004.
Discussion was held about the parking requirements. Ms. Kuenzel stated that Mr. Knox met all
of the ordinance requirements for minimum parking.
Benito Flores-Meath of 901 Val Verde Drive stated that he agreed with the project. His concern
related to the surrounding rental homes and how long they would remain as rentals before the
next phase is implemented.
Mayor Pro Tem Mariott closed the public hearing.
Councilman Maloney made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 2456 rezoning Lots lA, 17 and
18 Block D College Heights subdivision being 405 University Drive East, College Station,
Brazos County, Texas from A-P Administrative Professional to PDD-B Planned Development
District-Business to include the Planning and Zoning Commission conditions and limit the
seating of the restaurant. Councilman Garner seconded the motion.
Councilman Maloney amended his motion to approve Ordinance No. 2456 rezoning Lots lA,
17 and 18 Block D College Heights subdivision being 405 University Drive East, College
Station, Brazos County, Texas from A-P Administrative Professional to PDD-B Planned
Development District, including the Planning and Zoning Commission conditions and any on-
premise consumption of food and beverage serving area shall be restricted in size to no more
than 25% of the floor area of Building C. Councilman Hazen seconded the motion. Motion
carried by 5-0.
Council Meetings 6/22/00
Page 10
Providing Customer Service Excellence
Office of the City Secretary
College Station, Texas
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT
AGENDA ITEM NO. 7: Public hearing and consideration of a rezoning for the
Benjamin Knox Gallery to be located on Lots lA 17, and 18 of the College Heights
subdivision, on the north side of University Drive between Nimitz Street and
MacArthur Street. (00-95)
Agenda Item No. 7 was moved forward on the Agenda as Item No. 4.
Senior Planner Kuenzel presented the staff report. The College Heights area was platted
as a residential subdivision. Over time, the lots fronting on University Drive became
commercial, larger lots to general commercial and smaller lots to less intense commercial
districts. The subject lots were rezoned A-P to allow limited commercial uses. The
subject property is currently zoned A-P Administrative/Professional, which would allow
an art gallery but would not permit a retail framing shop or restaurants on site. The
applicant is proposing to relocate his gallery to the site, and is proposing a framing shop
and on-premise consumption of food and beverage, most likely m the form of an ice
cream shop and/or coffee shop. In order to assure that other more intense commercial
uses would not be located in the future on these lots that were originally designed for
residential uses, Staff recommended that the applicant submit a request for a PDD rather
than a standard commercial district.
As with all PDD's, there are building elevation drawings and a conceptual site plan that
are subject to the PNZ and Council review. The plan shows 3 buildings fronting on
University Drive with associated parking to the rear. Access will be taken via two
driveways, one each off of MacArthur and Nimitz. The main building will be fashioned
as a replica of the original College Station train depot, and the applicant intends to place a
locomotive and boxcars on tracks in front of the site.
The uses proposed would be consistent with other area uses along University Drive,
which include office, restaurant, financial institutions, and general retail. On small sites
such as the one included in this request, the City has allowed only limited commercial
uses. The requested proposal would be consistent with this policy. Staff recommends
approval of the rezoning. Senior Planner Kuenzel also stated that there has been no
opposition to this rezoning request.
With regard to both entrances to the property being directly off Texas Avenue,
Commissioner Warren asked Staff what comments about cross traffic and any future
barrier in the east and west lanes of Texas Avenue.
Senior Planner Kuenzel said that the Staff looked at the differences between the existing
zoning and the proposed zoning and because of the nature of the proposed use and the
fact that the density would be restricted the traffic intensity is less as compared to other
possible A-P use types.
Benjamin Knox, 500 Francis, College Station presented his proposed plans for the gallery
to the Planning & Zoning Commission. He submitted documents which included an
initial conceptual plan as well as future plans for the site that would enhance the
architectural integrity.
Commissioner Mooney asked Mr. Knox if there were any plans for shrubs and greenery
on the north side of the site at MacArthur and also asked him about lighting. Mr. Knox
said that he planned to plant trees and place lighting in the area as well. Additionally,
Commissioner Mooney asked Mr. Knox his plans regarding the type of materials to be
used in constructing Buildings B and C of Phase 2. Mr. Knox stated that those plans are
being made at this time. He said that he desires to use materials that have architectural
characteristics that will enhance the appearance of the Depot as well.
Chairman Rife explained the need for clarification and commitment of the materials that
are going to be used.
Mr. Knox said that wood and stone would be used as much as possible, keeping to the
honest characteristics of the materials of the Depot. He assured the Commission that the
other buildings would be compatible and complimentary to the Depot, i.e. arched
window(s), plaster, overhangs, and flat roofs.
Chairman Rife opened the public hearing
Chairman Rife closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Parker motioned for the approval of the rezoning and conceptual plan as
presented with the additional plans regarding any ancillary buildings as being in
compliance with the landscape ordinance and to be consistent with the written, visual,
and verbal presentation to include lighting considerations as directed by Staff.
Commissioner Warren seconded the motion which was passed 6-0 unopposed.
Commissioner Warren stated that she agreed with placing a limitation to the amount of retail space that
is allowed and understood the applicant to say that there would be 7-9 different architectural
appearances to the building.
Commissioner Mooney voiced concern regarding run-off at the site. He pointed out the flooding
problem that remains and the effect that additional concrete/asphalt will add to the already existing
problem.
Chairman Rife asked the Staff to assure the Commission that the existing drainage problem will not
become worse.
Assistant City Engineer Mayo told the Commission that he didn't believe there would be an increase in
the runoff rate due to the new development. However, in regards to the entire area, there may be a
need for a more accurate study since the current criteria is governed by FEMA and is not always
accurate, and because of the complexity of the drainage in the area. The study would have to identify
both the causes of the problems and possible solutions.
Chairman Rife called for the vote, which was 3-3 (Commissioners Mooney, Floyd and Horlen voted in
opposition).
Commissioner Mooney motioned to table the request until the completion of a flood study and
additional detail as suggested by Commissioner Floyd. Commissioner Floyd seconded the motion.
Chairman Rife called for the vote, which was 3-3 (Comnssioners Warren, Parker and Horlen voted in
opposition).
Commissioner Parker motioned to deny without prejudice, which was seconded by Commissioner
Warren.
The motion carried 6-0.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 7: Public hearing and consideration of a rezoning for the Benjamin
Knog Gallery to be located on Lots lA 17, and 18 of the College Heights subdivision, on the
north side of University Drive between Nimitz Street and MacArthur Street. (00-95)
Agenda Item No. 7 was moved forward on the Agenda as Item No. 4.
Senior Planner Kuenzel presented the staff report. The College Heights area was platted as a residential
subdivision. Over time, the lots fronting on University Drive became conunercial, larger lots to general
conunercial and smaller lots to less intense commercial districts. The subject lots were rezoned A-P to
allow limited commercial uses. The subject property is currently zoned A-P
AdnunistrativelProfessional, which would allow an art gallery but would not permit a retail franung
shop or restaurants on site. The applicant is proposing to relocate his gallery to the site, and is
proposing a framing shop and on-premise consumption of food and beverage, most likely in the form of
an ice cream shop and/or coffee shop. In order to assure that other more intense conunercial uses
would not be located in the future on these lots that were originally designed for residential uses, Staff
recommended that the applicant subnut a request for a PDD rather than a standard commercial district.
As with all PDD's, there are building elevation drawings and a conceptual site plan that are subject to
the PNZ and Council review. The plan shows 3 buildings fronting on University Drive with associated
parking to the rear. Access will be taken via two driveways, one each off of MacArthur and Nimitz.
The main building will be fashioned as a replica of the original College Station train depot, and the
applicant intends to place a locomotive and boxcars on tracks in front of the site.
The uses proposed would be consistent with other area uses along University Drive, which include
office, restaurant, financial institutions, and general retail. On small sites such as the one included in this
P&Z Minutes June IS, 2000 Page 9 of 13
----~-
request, the City has allowed only limited commercial uses. The requested proposal would be
consistent with this policy. Staff recommends approval of the rezoning. Senior Planner Kuenzel also
stated that there has been no opposition to this rezoning request.
With regard to both entrances to the property being directly off Texas Avenue, Commissioner Warren
asked Staff what comments about cross traffic and any future barrier in the east and west lanes of Texas
Avenue.
Senior Planner Kuenzel said that the Staff looked at the differences between the existing zoning and the
proposed zoning and because of the nature of the proposed use and the fact that the density would be
restricted the traffic intensity is less as compared to other possible A-P use types.
Benjamin Knox, 500 Francis, College Station presented his proposed plans for the gallery to the
Planning & Zoning Conuiiission. He submitted documents which included an initial conceptual plan as
well as future plans for the site that would enhance the architectural integrity.
Commssioner Mooney asked Mr. Knox if there were any Mans for sluubs and greenery on the north
side of the site at MacArthur_and also asked him about lighting. _4x sai is ~he plaruled to plant
trees and place lighting in the area as well. Additionally, Conunissioner Mooney asked Mr. Knox lus
•p ans regar ' e ype o materials ~o~e used in constructing Buildings B and C of Phase 2. Mr.
Knox stated that those plans are being made at this time. He said that he desires to use materials that
have architectural characteristics that will enhance the appearance of the Depot as well.
Chairman Rife explained the need for clarification and commitment of the materials that are going to be
used.
Mr. Knox said that wood and stone would be used as much as possible, keeping to the honest
characteristics of the materials of the Depot. He assured the Commission that the other buildings would
be compatible and complimentary to the Depot, i.e. arched window(s), plaster, overhangs, and flat
roofs.
Chairman Rife opened the public hearing
Chairman Rife closed the public hearing.
Conunissioner Parker motioned for the approval of the rezoning and conceptual plan as presented with
the additional plans regarding any ancillary buildings as being in compliance with the landscape
ordinance and to be consistent with the written, visual, and verbal presentation to in lighting
considerations as dii•ecte~by Staff.
Comnssioner Warren seconded the motion which passed b-0.
AGENDA ITEM N0.8: Public hearing and consideration of a Conditional Use Permit for a
freestanding sign to be located at 1000 Eleanor Street (College Station Lincoln Center). (00-94)
Agenda Item No. 8 was moved forward on the Agenda and addressed as Agenda Item No. 5.
Staff Plaruier Laauwe made the Staff Report presentation to the Commission. The Lincoln Center is a
municipal building and complex located within an R-1 Single Family Residential District and operated
by the Parks and Recreation Department. Municipal buildings may be located within any zoning district
upon approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission. The sign regulations however, do not make
provisions for attached or freestanding signage to be located in an R-1 district. The proposed sign is to
be marquee in type, have 32 square feet of sign face and have an overall height of 14 feet.
P&Z~finutes June 15, 2000 Page 10 of 13