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college Station
Embracing the Past, Exploring the Future
Agenda
Joint Meeting
Planning and Zoning Commission
&
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Thursday, October 30, 2003, at 5:30 p.m.
The EXIT Teen Center
1520 Rock Prairie Road
College Station, Texas
1. Call to order.
2. Pardon — possible action concerning requests for absences of members
from meeti g.
3. Hear visitors.
4. Presentation, discussion, and possible action concerning Conservation
Easements (Carolyn Vogle, Texas Parks and Wildlife).
5. Presentation, discussion, and possible action concerning the current
status of Greenways (Judy Downs, Greenways Coordinator).
6. Presentation, discussion, and possible action concerning the update of
the Greenways Master Plan (Judy Downs, Greenways Coordinator).
7. Discussion, consideration, and possible action concerning Pedestrian
Access policies and criteria (Ken Fogle, Transportation Planner).
8. Discussion, consideration, and possible action concerning bikeways.
9. Discussion and possible action co cerning Park Land Dedication
Ordinance revisions.
10. Discussion, consideration, and possible action concerning the Unified
Development Ordinance.
11. Discussion and possible action on future agenda items - A Planning
and Zoning Member may inquire about a subject for which notice has
not been given. A statement of specific factual information or the
recitation of existing policy may be given. Any deliberation shall be
limited to a proposal to place the subject on an agenda for a
subsequent meeting.
12. Adjourn.
The building is wheelchair accessible. Handicap parking spaces are available. Any request
for sign interpretive services must be made 48 hours before the meeting. To make
arrangements call (979) 764-3517 or (TDD) 1-800-735-2989.
College Station
Embracing the Past, Exploring the Future
MINUTES
Joint Meeting
Planning and Zoning Como fission
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Thursday, October 30, 2003, at 5:30 p.m.
The EXIT Teen Center
1520 Rock Prairie Road
College Station, Texas
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chairman Shafer, Commissioners White, Davis and
Reynolds.
COMMISSI )Ik ERS ABSENT; Commissioners Hall, Trapani and Williams.
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY °= O►ARD MEMBEi' S 'RESENT: Chairman Nichols,
Board Members Schroeder, Warner, Allison, Livingston, Farnsworth and Erwin.
PACKS RECREATION ADVISORY BOA '1 a 6 EMy==IRS ASENT: Glen Davis.
PARKS AND RECREATION STAFF PRESENT: Parks and Recreation Director Beachy and
Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Ploeger.
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES STAFF PRESENT: City Planner Kee, Transportation Planner
Fogle, Senior Planner Battle, Staff Planners Fletcher and Prochazka, Development Manager
Ruiz, Development Services Director Templin, Graduate Civil Engineer Thompson and Staff
Assistant Hazlett.
OTHER CITY STAFF PRESENT: Greenways Program Manager Downs, Diane Strom,
Public Works Intern (Greenways), and Assistant City Attorney Nemcik.
CITY COUNCIL ME BE 'S PRESENT: Anne Hazen.
V,SIT° S: Mark Barker, Jennifer Lorenz (Executive Director, Legacy Land Trust), Carolyn
Vogle (Texas Parks and Wildlife), Charles Ellison (PC), and members of the Brazos
Greenways Council Jennifer Nations and Sherry Ellison.
1. Cali to order.
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Chairman John Nichols and Planning and
Zoning Commission Chairman Scott Shafer called the meeting to order at 5:54 p.m.
2. Pardon possible action concerning g requests for absences of members
from meeting.
Advisory Board member Farnsworth motioned to approve the absences of Advisory
Board members. Advisory Board member Warner seconded the motion, which
carried 7-0. Commissioner Davis motioned to approve the Commission absences.
Commissioner Reynolds seconded the motion, which carried 4-0.
Hear Visitors,.
Introductions were made around the room.
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop Page 1 of 7
Chairman Shafer opened the Hear Visitors portion of the meeting. Because no one
spoke, he closed the public hearing.
4~ Presentation, discussion, and possible action concerning Conservation
Carolyn Vogle,arepresentative of the Department of Texas Parks and Wildlife,
explained that a conservation easement is land that is deed restricted, has tax
consequences and is restricted of all 0rsome future development. She added that it
is property Owned by a db/ or county government Or a charitable organization
through negotiations of a purchasing organization with a landowner, Once the
agreement of purchase is reached 8 hold is placed on the design of the land and
agreements on the land for the future are then determined. Thereafter, each
subsequent landowner is bound to the agreement. M5. V0g|e pointed out the three
types of tax benefits for land that is designated as a conservation easement: (1)
Property Tax Benefit, (2) Wild ||fe/Aghcu|tuc]! Income Tax Benefit, and (3)
Inheritance Benefit. In closing, MS. Vog|e stated that the responsibility of the land
trust company is to monitor and enforce the land easement agreement, making
annual visits UOthe site t0 ensure that the land remains as preserved.
Jennifer Lorenz, Executive Director, Legacy Land Trust, Stated that the 8 year old
organization has 10Cnn5en/atVn easement, 7 of which are mitigation projects, and
are spread Out Over a number of counties around Houston. She distributed a
brochure of the Montgomery County Preserve that is one Of the first COunh/ }and
easements in the country. The land trust company also assists the county with the
park development by putting in and maintaining trails. In addition, butterfly counts,
bird counts and other similar ecological interests will be part of the New Texas Parks
and Wildlife Trail that is partly owned by The Woodlands. The VVOOd|and5 also made
four land swaps for wetland mitigation for property that the county wanted to
preserve. MS. Lorenz reported that The Village of Wimberly is the first municipality
that has a conservation easement. She reiterated that conservation easement is
land that can never bedeveloped but provides trails and access tothe area 24 hours
a day, 7days a week.
M5. L0nenaegave a diagram ofpurchase development rights and explained that the
property can change hands but that the easement remains on the land. Additional
information regarding supplemental environmental projects, which a|XOwS you to do
strategic conservation, was discussed.
There is no rnin|nnurn size for conservation easements and you may add property to
the size of the easement through amendments.
Further discussion ensued regarding other ways conservation easements have been
used.
Mark Barker, Legacy Land Trust, stated that the City of Brazos Bend is working with
landowners regarding a park that houses an observatory. The City of Houston is
building adjacent t0the park. Light pollution from the observatory is an issue they
are trying to address by working with the landowners to build a buffer through a
conservation easement.
M5. Lorenz added that Texas Parks and Wildlife offers great grants and bonus points
for doing an easement. She told of the City of Cleveland's canoeing and launch site
that has been provided through aconservation easement.
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop Page 2 of
Commissioner Davis asked how an easement is established, whether by the
landowner orthe land trust company and who retains the title? Also, is there a tax
benefit to the owner and how do we facilitate this for fair market value or tax
Ms. Lorenz advised obtaining the services of an appraiser that is familiar with
conservation easements.
Chairman Nichols asked how much value a landowner would get out of8 fl0odp|a|n
area that isn't developable. City Planner Kee interjected that under the Cib/s
current drainage ordinance; a landowner can peC|airn f|0odp|ain if it is properly
engineered.
Parks and Recreation Director BeaChy asked if there was anything that would speak
to lessen the liability of the owner, i.8., and trails. Ms. Lorenze stated that having a
conservation easement on private land vvQu|d increase the liability. Therefore, the
trust company tries to have the landowner give ownership over to a municipality or
county. However, we do work with landowners to open the area for bird|ng and
butterfly observation, native plant society, etc. Most landowners will not open up
their property for trails, and it may be possible to have them give some property for
connected easements that are donated to the municipality and receive 8 tax
deduction for doing so.
Mr. Be8chy pointed out that the City has approximately ll acres in Veteran's Park
designated as a conservation easement as well as the Arboretum, off Southwest
Parkway which iSalso a conservation easement
Chairman Nichols suggested that since there is a demand in Texas for conservation
easements, resources Sh0u|U be explored and our efforts should be concentrated on
the areas Ofpriority.
Chairman Shafer concurred.
MS. Lorenz stated that the Brazos Valley Council of Governments is exploring the
possibility Ofhelp in funding acquisition processing with TxOCA'.
It was pointed out that by using Trusts, the land would be Saved from becoming
fragmented.
Ms. Lorenz encouraged City Staff to look C|oS8}y at their 2003 aria| photos and
determine the important areas in and around Brazos County, Grimes County and
Robertson County. It would be beneficial to speak simultaneously with 4-5
landowners about conservation easements.
On behalf of the City Of College Station, Council Member Anne Hazen, presented
Carolyn Vog|e, Mark Barker and Jennifer Lorenz a gift of appreciation for their
informative presentation.
5. Presentation, discussion, and possible action concerning the current status
of Greenways.
SreenwayS Program Manager Judy Downs made the presentation. She opened her
n2rnerks by referring to the maps in the back of her report, which, she distributed to
those oresent. She presented an update ofthe Greenvvays Program that include, d
properties that have either been acquired or dedicated to date as vvel| as the
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop Page 3 of 7
program budget. She followed with an explanation of the proposed GreenwayS
Conservation Master Plan Update which she, Scott Shafer, Nanette Manhart and lane
Kee had begun.
Ms. Downs covered each section of the program update. She reported that a
meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2003tg receive public input regarding the
Update. She also recommended changing the title from The (3reenways Plan to the
Conservation Plan. Ms. OOvxnS briefly explained the inception of the GreenwayS Plan
as a flood control program, adding that sometimes streams have been disturbed and
the habitat value is not known. Connectivity issues have been addressed through
other plans but still, other issues remain, It is important that land is acquired as it
becomes available. C)pemgbonS and maintenance has not been addressed and is an
issue with both the Public Works and the Parks and Recreation Departments. If the
City takes theArrny'S Conservation areas, maintenance will be needed. This project
is proposed for mitigation. Ms. DQvvnS also pointed out the status of the
implementation program and the accomplishments thus far.
There was some discussion about determining if bond money can be used for the
E7]. Assistant City Attorney Nernc|kStated that it would depend on how the bond -
share !swritten.
Further discussion ensued regarding rezoning cases and properties that are proposed
atthe time 0fthe rezoning for gmeenvvayspace but are actually never dedicated. y4S.
Downs suggested that areas specified as gmeeMwayshouUd remain as A-OAgricu|tura|
Open zoning districts. When the final plat iSsubmitted tothe C0[nrniSSi0n, the public
and/Or privategreenwaV should be depicted on the plat atthat time. TO accomplish
this, Ms. Kee stated that the City Council would need to approve the change in the
platting language, which is being considered at the City Council meeting on
November 13, 2003. Ms. Downs reported that the City has received 16 acres of
greeUvv8yand 40 acres for parks in gneenways.
Chairman Nichols interjected that several times plans have been reviewed and the
developer didn't have usable land for the Parks Board. Further, the fact that land
was accepted doesn't mean the land needed was obtained. He questioned the Parks
Board's options in regards to accepting fees in lieu of !and dedication and if the
developer has the option to choose to pay the fee rather than dedicate land. MS.
Kee stated that the Parks Board, and not the developer, decides to accept money in
lieu of land dedication. Mr. Beachy added that parks may have some greenvvay but
that not all greenvvayS are parks. Ms. Downs pointed out that some connectivity is
being created in some areas but many people do not want their greenway areas
open tOthe public.
Parks 8o8nj Member Warner added that in some instances where the Parks Board
voted to accept land thinking that connectivity would result, proved to be an
assumption, asthe connectivity did not come t0 fruition, Ms. Downs encouraged the
Parks Board Co consider the whole and not one particular piece of property when
mapping out connectivity.
Chairman Shafer asked if the floodwater impact was known. MS. Onvvns stated that
the City is negotiating with some developers regarding storm water needs. She
added that velocity control must be conducted. She pointed out that more water is
being held in gn2enway5than before development begins. This will kill [1hetn8es
and could take as much as 50-100 years for the habitat to correct itself.
Mr. Beachy added that there are no requirements explaining how a greenway should
look.
6. Presentation, discussion, and possible action concerning the update of the
Greenways Master Plan (Judy Downs, Greenways Coordinator).
This item was discussed in combination with Agenda Item No. 5, preceding.
7. Discussion, consideration, and possible action concerning Pedestrian Access
policies and criteria (Ken Fogle, Transportation Planner).
Transportation Planner Fogle presented a policy guideline for pedestrian access ways.
He explained that the Commission can require a pedestrian access way, but that this
policy will give them a better guideline on where the access ways should be placed
and how often they should be provided. He requested further direction from the
boards to continue and complete his research.
Mr. Fogle gave three examples of pedestrian access way locations:
• Between the bulbs of two cul-de-sacs
▪ At mid -block locations between long blocks
• At mid -block locations or dead end streets that abut a public land use or a public
street
Commissioner White asked if the emergency access way between Woodland Hills
Subdivision and the new subdivision being developed to the east would be an
example of a pedestrian access way. Mr. Fogle responded that this is an example,
but it is oversized since it must also accommodate fire trucks and other emergency
vehicles.
Mr. Beachy interjected that this is a real problem. He pointed out that Woodcreek
Park only has one access and that the new phase that will back the subdivision has
no additional access. He added that through a study conducted a few years ago,
significant access issues were brought to light. He requested the Commission's
assistance in addressing these issues.
Mr. Fogle further explained design consideration issues in the proposed Pedestrian
Access Way Policy Guideline. Points of discussion included the maximum length,
width, landscaping, adjacent fencing requirements, compatible adjacent land uses
and requirements based on future or existing adjacent land uses. Other
considerations were voiced, Le., (1) Should the City require an access way when
existing development is going on next to each other or should we plan and require
the area to be fenced off until the property is developed out? (2) How do we
regulate it? (3) Do the requirements become part of the Subdivision Regulations,
Code and Policy Statement? (4) Do we want to provide some sort of incentive?
Commissioner White stated that he thought this concept was a great idea and would
enhance the sale of lots. Mr. Beachy pointed out that a recent study of Pebble Creek
residents revealed that 70% of the residents purchased their lots because of the golf
course. While most of them do not use the golf course, they purchased their lot for
the visual image.
Chairman Nichols spoke positively of the Pedestrian Access Way Policy Guideline,
saying that it seemed to be something that is manageable. Chairman Shafer
concurred and feels that this is the way to address these particular issues:
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop Page 5 of 7
Commissioner Davis expressed concern whether or not bicycles would be able to
traverse the pedestrian access ways.
Chairman Shafer reiterated the benefit from this type of connectivity. He believes it
will lead to a richer and better community and provide a better quality of life.
8. Discussion, consideration, and possible action concerning bikeways.
Commissioner Davis deferred comments, stating that he was satisfied with the
presentation that was made during the presentation of the preceding agenda item
No. 7
No further comments were made.
9. Discussion and possible action concerning Park Land Dedication Ordinance
revisions.
Parks and Recreation Director Beachy stated that his staff has begun the process and
will be working on provisions over the next several months, particularly regarding
Item 101).4 that deals with the developer's option in the building of the parks. The
current ordinance creates a conflict that precludes using that option at this time and
it is important to have it working correctly in order to make the option usable for the
developer.
• iscussion, considerati
Developm-nt Ordinance.
n, and possible action c
ncerning the Unifie
Development Services Director Templin asked the Parks Board members if there
were any issues or actions that needed to be revisited and discussed. He suggested
that several meetings may be necessary in order to address and define these issues
for inclusion in the updated version of the UDO.
The Board noted several items that were issues of concern:
• Open space
- Water and sewer line sizes
• Thickness of pavement
- Parkland dedication funds - residential vs commercial.
Mr. Beachy reported that Article 8 has been drafted and will be coming before the
Commission in the near future. Mr. Templin interjected that the current UDO can be
modified to carry through to Article 8.
A brief discussion regarding open space ensued. Mr. Templin added that the City is
attempting to negotiate density transfers and encourage developer not to develop in
the floodplains.
Ms Downs reminded the Parks Board and the Commission to encourage clustering in
order to provide more open space and which is permitted through the UDO.
Chairman Nichols asked who owns and maintains properties obtained through
clustering and that he would like to see an example of that and see how it fits in with
parks.
11.. Discussion and possible action on future a 'enda items — A Planning and
*
Z ning ember or Parks an Recreation dvisory 4,oard Member may
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop
Page 6 of 7
inquire about a subject for which notice has not been given. A statement of
specific factual information or the recitation of existing policy may be given.
Any deliberation shall be limited to a proposal to place the subject on an
agenda for a subsequent meeting.
Commissioner Davis asked for further information regarding the use of bond money
for the ETJ. Chairman Shafer suggested forming a subcommittee to research this
prospect. He directed Staff to place this item on a future agenda for further
discussion.
Chairman Nichols thanked the members of the Commission for the opportunity to
meet with them. Mr. Beachy echoed his sentiments also to the Commission, and to
the staff of Development Services, Ms, Downs, Councilwoman Hazen and all the
members of the Parks Board.
Commissioner Shafer reiterated the compliments for the work Ms. Downs has done,
commenting on the great strides in the greenways project that have been
accomplished.
12. Adjourn.
Commissioner White motioned to adjourn the meeting. His motion was seconded by
Commissioner Davis and carried by a vote of 4-0.
FOR: Shafer, White, Davis and Reynolds.
AGAINST: None.
ABSENT: Trapani, Williams and Hall.
Parks Board member Warner motioned to adjourn the meeting. Parks Board
alternate member Erwin seconded the motion, which carried 7-0.
FOR: Nichols, Schroeder, Warner, Allison, Livingston, Farnsworth and Erwin.
AGAINST: None,
ABSENT: Davis.
The meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m.
Approved, Scott Shafer
Chairman, Planning and Zo ing Commission
roved, John Nichols
Chairman, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Attest:
Susan Hazlett, StaffAssistant
Development Services
P&Z Mnutes
Joint Workshop Page 7 of 7
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',lat._ PG, 207
I I
COLLEGE STATION, BRAZOS COUNTY, TEXAS
AGE_)A I
Pedestria Ace
ss
licies nd Criteria
PE E hTIA. ACC AY
FOLl U l `: Ll E ' AF
Pedestrian Access Ways (PAWS) are rights -of -way or easements that provide connectivity for
non -vehicular transportation modes between public streets (and other public uses) where
this access would otherwise be precluded due to barriers from private development.
Policy Guideline: The City of College Station will encourage the use of non -vehicular
transportation modes by increasing pedestrian access between residential and adjacent
land uses through the use of I'AWs.
Examples of PAW locations:
• between the bulbs of two cul-de-sacs
• At mid -block locations between long Hocks
• At mid -block locations or dead end streets that abut a public land use (e.g., schools, park,
library, neighborhood retail center, etc.) or a public street
Example PAW Requirement Criteria:
O A I'AW shall be provided on all dead end streets that are longer than 200 feet (unless
abutting land use is incompatible).
Dead End Street PAW: In this case, the PAW provides access to the primary thoroughfare
behind the subdivision The PAW could also connect the ends of two dead end streets.
• A f'AW shall be provided at mid -block locations when the block length exceeds 800 feet
(unless abutting land use is incompatible).
Mid eilock PAW: In this case, the PAW provides access through a neighborhood across a
long block.
• I'AWs shall be provided through a residential Hock at intervals of not more than 400 feet
when the Hock backs up to a public use (e.g., school, park, or library).
Public Area PAW: In this case, the I'AW provides access through a neighborhood to a city
park.
Design Considerations:
Maximum PAW length between cul-de-sac bulbs.
- The maximum PAW length between cul-de-sacs shall be 100 feet.
® Desirable PAW widths (easement and pavement).
- The PAW easement shall be 20 feet wide with a 6-foot sidewalk. The sidewalk shall
either be located in the center of the easement, or may meander through the access
way.
• Landscaping requirements within PAW.
- Canopy trees shall be planted at intervals of 30 feet through the access way. Shrubs
are prohibited within access ways.
• Adjacent fencing requirements.
- Open type fences (as shown below) will be required adjacent to I'AWs. These fences will
be constructed by the developer and dedicated to the City of College Station with
other public infrastructure such as streets and utility lines.
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Open Fence: Open fences will allow a view of the PAW from adjacent homes, increasing
security of the PAW.
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Compatible adjacent land uses.
- PAWS shall be required as described by the above criteria when the adjacent land use
is residential, park, floodplain/stream, institutional. PAWS connecting residential areas
to retail land uses may be required by the Planning and Zoning Commission,
Requirement based on future or existing adjacent land use.
- PAWS shall be required based on the planned future land use of the adjacent property.
In many cases, PAWS will be constructed that lead to undeveloped land, but the
opportunity for these pedestrian connections will be preserved for the future. Until the
PAW connects to the adjacent developed parcel, the PAW fencing shall be continuous
across the opening.
College Station
Embracing the Past, Exploring the Future
MINUTES
Joint Meeting
Planning and Zoning Commission
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Thursday, October 30, 2003, at 5:30 p.m®
The EXIT Teen Center
1520 Rock Prairie Road
College Station, Texas
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT:
Reynolds,
COMMISSIONERS ASSENT:
Chairman Shafer, Commissioners White, Davis and
Commissioners Hall, Tra
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS',l
Board Members Schroeder, Warner, Allison, Livingston, Farr
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS ASNT:
PARKS AND RECREATION STAFF PRESEN
Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Ploe
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES STAF
Fogle, Senior Planner xatle, Sta
Ruiz, Developmn
Assistant Hazlett:'
Williams.
Chairman Nichols,
Erwin.
en Davis.
nd Recr°ation D;rector Beachy and
SE City Pla.r ner Kee,„---TransportationPlanner
inners Fletcher and' Prochazka, Development Manager
Templin, G'-aduate CivL Engineer Thompson and Staff
OTHER CITY STAFF PRESEN, Greenways Program Manager Downs, Diane Strom,
Public WorkstIr ern (Greenways), and Assistant City Attorney Nemcik.
CITY COUNCI
EM
ERS PRESENT: Anne Hazen.
VISITORS: Mark arkerennifer Lorenz (Executive Director, Legacy Land Trust), Carolyn
Vogle (Texas Parks Sand i Vildlife), Charles Ellison (PC), and members of the Brazos
Greenways Council Jennifer Nations and Sherry Ellison.
1. CaII to order.
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Chairman John Nichols and Planning and
Zoning Commission Chairman Scott Shafer called the meeting to order at 5:54 p.m.
2. Pardon possible action concerning requests for absences of members
from meeting.
Advisory Board member Farnsworth motioned to approve the absences of Advisory
Board members. Advisory Board member Warner seconded the motion, which
carried 7-0. Commissioner Davis motioned to approve the Commission absences.
Commissioner Reynolds seconded the motion, which carried 4-0.
3. Hear visitors.
Introductions were made around the room.
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop Page 1 of 7
Chairman Shafer opened the Hear Visitors portion of the meeting. Because no one
spoke, heclosed the public hearing.
4. Presentation, discussion, and possible action concerning Conservation
Easements.
Carolyn Vog|e, a representative of the Department of Texas Parks and Wildlife,
explained that a conservation easement is land that is dead restricted, has tax
consequences and is restricted of all or some future deveioprnent. She added that it
is property owned by a city or county government or a charitable organization
through negotiations of a purchasing organization with e landowner. Once the
agreement of purchase is reached a hold is placed on the design of the land and
agreements on the land for the future are then determined. Thereafter, each
subsequent landowner is bound to the agreement. Ms. Vogle pointed out the three
types of tax benefits for land that is designated as a conservation easement: (1)
Property Tax Benefit, (2) Wildlife/Agricultural Inco , f, n , 0 T aix Benefit, and (3)
Inheritance Benefit, In closing, Ms. Vogle stated re§poins--fbility of the land
trust company is to monitor and enforce the land�,.-"41sement',,, agreement, making
annual visits to the site to ensure that the land remain5,,,,-4aso,,'p "d
Jennifer Lorenz, Executive Director, Legacy Land r th-- he 8 year old
organization has 10 conservation easement, 7a,,p tigati-on, projects, and
are spread out over a number of countie-q., hout U She,- -'--tributed a
brochure of the Montgomery County Pre�6rve th&t,'�-i :,the unty land
easements in the country. The land,,trust-,,P-,,:compa,r,,,i,,Y�i-,4l�o assi�t§-., the county with the
park development by putting in addition, butterfly counts,
bird counts and other-simi�ar (�C7'0 ogical intems ,,Prt ofthe New Texas Parks
and Wildlife Whed by Woodlands also made
"""kind mitigation f6r,,-,--,-,-properW h he county wanted to
that has', 6,;conservation reite d that a conservation easement is
land that ta[n never be devej,''Oed b'd-t', -, rovides trails and access to the area 24 hours
Ms. Lorenze'i'a'Ve a diagra - f purchase development rights and explained that the
property can change h a t that the easement remains on the land. Additional
information re 1'emental environmental projects, which allows you to do
strategic cons s discussed.
There is no minimum size for conservation easements and you may add property to
the size of the easement through amendments.
Further discussion ensued regarding other ways conservation easements have been
used.
Mark Barker, Legacy Land Trust, stated that the City ofBrazos Bend is working with
landowners regarding a park that houses an observatory. The City of Houston is
building adjacent to the park. Light pollution from the observatory is an issue they
are trying to address by working with the landowners to build a buffer through a
conservation easement.
Ms. Lorenz added that Texas Parks and Wildlife offers great grants and bonus points
for doing an easement. She told of the City of Cleveland's canoeing and launch site
that has been provided through aconservation easement.
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop
Page 2 of 7
Commissioner Davis asked how an easement is established, whether by the
landowner or the land trust company and who retains the title? Also, is there a tax
benefit to the owner and how do we facilitate this for a fair market value or tax
break?
Ms. Lorenz advised obtaining the services of an appraiser that is familiar with
conservation easements.
Chairman Nichols asked how much value a landowner would get out of a floodplain
area that isn't developable. City Planner Kee interjected that under the City's
current drainage ordinance; a landowner can reclaim floodplain if it is properly
engineered.
Parks and Recreation Director Beachy asked if there was anything that would speak
to lessen the liability of the owner, i.e., and trails. Ms Lorenze; stated that having a
conservation easement on private land would increase 'he Itoh�lity. Therefore, the
trust company tries to have the landowner give ownership over to a municipality or
county. However, we do work with landowners to open they area for birding and
butterfly observation, native plant society, etc. MostS[ancaowners twill not open up
their property for trails, and it may be possible to have them give s me property for
connected easements that are donated to the« municipality an receive a tax
deduction for doing so.
Mr. Beachy pointed out that the City has approximately 11 acres in Veteran's Park
designated as a conservation easement s wed as the Arboretum, off Southwest
Parkway which is also a conservation easeme^�`
Chairman ]chois suggested that since there is a detnanin Texas for conservation
easements, resources should be`explored and our efforts should be concentrated on
the areas of priority.
Chairman Shafer concurred.
Ms. Lorenz stated that the
possibility of {ieip; !n fundin
It was pointed
fragmented.
azos Valley Council of Governments is exploring the
acquisition processing with TxDOT.
y using Trusts, the land would be saved from becoming
Ms. Lorenz encouraged City Staff to look closely at their 2003 aria! photos and
determine the important areas in and around Brazos County, Grimes County and
Robertson County. It would be beneficial to speak simultaneously with 4-5
landowners about conservation easements.
On behalf of the City of College Station, Council Member Anne Hazen, presented
Carolyn Vogle, Mark Barker and Jennifer Lorenz a gift of appreciation for their
informative presentation.
5. Presentation, discussion, and possible action concerning the current status
of Greenways.
Greenways Program Manager Judy Downs made the presentation. She opened her
remarks by referring to the maps in the back of her report, which she distributed to
those present. She presented an update of the Greenways Program that included
properties that have either been acquired or dedicated to date as well as the
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop Page 3 of 7
program budget. She followed with an explanation of the proposed Greenvvays
Conservation Master Plan Update which she, Scott Shafer, Nanette Manhart and Jane
Kee had begun.
Ms. Downs covered each section of the program update. She reported that a
meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2003 to receive public input regarding the
Update. She also recommended changing the title from The Graanvvays Plan to the
Conservation Plan. Ms. Downs briefly explained the inception of the Greenvvays Plan
as flood control program, adding that sometimes streams have been disturbed and
the habitat value is not known. Connectivity issues have been addressed through
other plans but still, other issues remain. It is important that land is acquired as it
becomes available. Operations and maintenance has not been addressed and is an
issue with both the Public Works and the Parka and Recreation, Departments. If the
City takes theArrny's Conservation areas, maintenance b This project
is proposed for mitigation. Ms. Downs also poithe,, status of the
implementation program and the accomplishments thu
There was some discussion about determining if bon used for the
ET]. Assistant City Attorney Nonncih stated that it wolul,, end w the Uondshare is written.
-
Further discussion ensued regarding rezoni'Rg---,'-,"c-a's'e"-2s,�-a,ihd properties that-iap6i'i-pro posed
at the time of the rezoning for greenway space but a'to"actually,"bever de�d-kbted. Ms.
Downs suggested that areas specifieo--,,as g,re_enway`,,thd6ld rem'61'6.as A-0 Agricultural
"lat CoM,__,_mission, the public
Open zoning districts. When the fin'
and/or private gr_eeqway,,,should',1 epicted oF)y,,-,th'e plaf'�`O`t-`,-tlhat time. To accomplish
prove the change in the
platting Ian Uage, whichf.�,-i ,,Js bein d E*b-_at,,the City Council meeting on
consi
Chairman Niefibis interjected -FtV times plans have been reviewed and the
VEI
3',,,,have usable�`] nd for the Parks Board. Further, the fact that land
was accepted (id sn't mean th" ,1and needed was obtained. He questioned the Parks
Board's options'�,,-J'h`, regarcls,,"�'_6-Paccepting fees in lieu of land dedication and if the
developer has th6_1�,�6ptippt "choose to pay the fee rather than dedicate land. Ms.
Kee stated that tfie`,;_P6'rk9` Board and not the developer, decides to accept money in
'h added that parks may have some greenway but
lieu of land dedicatio'. Mr. Beac y
that not all greenways are parks. Ms. Downs pointed out that some connectivity is
OpentOthepub|iC.
Parka Board Member Warner added that in some instances where the Parks Board
voted to accept land thinking that connectivity would result, proved to be an
assumption, asthe connectivity did not come tofruition, Ms. Downs encouraged the
Parks Board to consider the whole and not one particular piece of property when
mapping out connectivity.
Chairman Shafer asked if the floodwater impact was known. Ms. Downs stated that
the City is negotiating with some developers regarding storm water needs. She
added that velocity control must be conducted. She pointed out that more water is
being held in gnaenvvaysthan before development begins. This will N|| the trees
and could take as much as 50-100 years for the habitat to correct itself.
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop
Page 4 of 7
Mr. Beachy added that there are no requirements explaining how a greenvvay should
6. Presentation, discussion, and possible action concerning the update of the
GreenwaymMaster Plan (Judy Downs, GmaemnwaysCoordinatmr).
This item was discussed incombination with Agenda Item No. S, preceding.
7. Discussion, consideration, and possible action concerning Pedestrian Access
policies and criteria (Ken FogU«,l[ranmpor8ation Planner).
Transportation P|annerFog|e presented a policy guideline for pedestrian access ways.
He explained that the Commission can require a pedestrianay, but that this
policy will give them a better guideline on vvha should be placed
and how often they should be provided. He reque-s-stb'd- fUtt
irection from the
boards to continue and complete his research.
Mr. Fog|e gave three examples ofpedestrian access
19 At mid -block locations between Between the bulbs of two cul-de-sacs
blocks
ElAt mid -block locations or dead end stre bu bUc |or public
������
-
street
�
Commissioner White asked if the,, emergency att"Ots, way
b, tween Woodland Hills
,p',d to east would be an
example of a p Aan acce"§s'%ay. Mr. Fdg4e res�p�dri�ded that this is an example,
in r�t'ucks and other emergency
pointed out that VVoodcreek
Park onl'�-I`has one access an" e
rid that.,,fli new phase that will back the subdivision has
rough a study conducted e few years ago,
signiica;.Access issues brought to light. He requested the Commission's
assistance ilhi
Mr. Fogle furfh, 4,i-fied design consideration issues in the proposed Pedestrian
Access Way Po_,Ificy_, ui ei Points of discussion included the maximum length,
width, landscaping,, adjacent fencing requirements, compatible adjacent land uses
and requirements based on future or existing adjacent land uses. Other
considerations were voiced, i.e., (1) Should the City require an access way when
existing development is going on next to each other or should we plan and require
the area to be fenced off until the property is developed out? (2) How do we
regulate it? (3) Do the requirements become part of the Subdivision Regulations,
Code and Policy Statement? (4) Do we want to provide some sort of incentive?
Commissioner White stated that he thought this CODC8pt was a great idea and vvOu|d
enhance the sale of lots. Mr. Baachy pointed out that a recent study of Pebble Creek
residents revealed that 7O%nfthe residents purchased their lots because nfthe golf
course. While most of them do not use the golf course, they purchased their lot for
the visual image.
Chairman Nichols spoke positively of the Pedestrian Access Way Policy Guideline,
saying that it seemed to be something that is manageable. Chairman Shafer
concurred and feels that this is the way to address these particular issues.
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop Page 5 of
Commissioner Davis expressed concern whether or not bicycles would be able to
traverse the pedestrian access ways.
Chairman Shafer reiterated the benefit from this type of connectivity. He believes it
will lead to a richer and better community and provide a better quality of life.
S. Discussion, consideration, and possible action concerning bikeways.
Commissioner Davis deferred comments, stating that he was satisfied with the
presentation that was made during the presentation of the preceding agenda item
No further comments were made.
�
9. Discussion and possible action concerning Park
revisions.
1ca ion Ordinance
Parks and Recreation Director Beachy stated that his stdff"-h process and
will be working on provisions over the next several
Item 10b.4 that deals with the developer's option in 'UL I he parks. The
current ordinance creates a conflict that preclu-des-``V---,sJng th-;at',bption cit4his',time and
it is important to have it working correctly - , --d"" tW
ueve/uye/.
10~ Discussion, consideration, sg'lbo g the Unified
Development (�F,
~
_~-~-.
��members�pvp|nnnoe� e���ivices ritet��r n�mnu|in ask o���rhe.R�� Board if there
���
be discussed. He suggested
that in order~toaddress and define these issues
in
The Board ncifJ��,,,several items,,` , that weri issues of concern:
* Thickness of PON'Yem,,pn,
* Parkland s- residential vs commercial.
Mr. Beachy reported that Article 8 has been drafted and will be corning before the
Commission in the near future. Mr. Tennp|in interjected that the current UDO can be
modified tocarry through to Article 8.
A brief discussion regarding open space ensued. Mr. Ternp|in added that the City is
attempting to negotiate density transfers and encourage developer not to develop in
the f|oodp|ains.
Ms Downs reminded the Parks Board and the Commission toencourage clustering in
order to provide more open space and which is permitted through the UDO.
Chairman Nichols asked who owns and maintains properties obtained through
clustering and that he would like to see an example of that and see how it fits in with
parks.
11. Discussion and possible action on future agenda items - A Planning and
Zoning Member or Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Member may
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop Page 6of7
inquire about a subject for which notice has not been given. A statement of
specific factual information or the recitation of existing policy may be given.
Any deliberation shall be limited to a proposal to place the subject on an
agenda for a subsequent meeting.
Commissioner Davis asked for further information regarding the use of bond money
for the ETJ. Chairman Shafer suggested forming a subcommittee to research this
prospect. He directed Staff to place this item on a future agenda for further
discussion.
Chairman Nichols thanked the members of the Commission for the opportunity to
meet with them. Mr. Beachy echoed his sentiments also to the Commission, and to
the staff of Development Services, Ms. Downs, Councilwoman Hazen and all the
members of the Parks Board.
-
Commissioner Shafer reiterated the complimentsir the worms. Downs has done,
commenting on
accomplished.
12. Adjourn.
the great strides in the greenwa,YS-ii'Pr'oject that have been
Parks Board mennbe d.Warne*- motionedo.,-,i,-,4djourn the meeting. Parks Board
alternate member ErViin`:qecoli4.ed the motiOfir'which carried 7-0.
FOR: Nichols, Sdnroe er;Warner, Allison, Livingston, Farnsworth and Erwin.
AGAINST: None.
ABSENT: ' Davis.
The meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m.
Approved, Scott Shafer
Chairman, Planning and Zoning Commission
Approved, John Nichols
Chairman, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Attest:
Susan Hazlett, Staff Assistant
Development Services
P&Z Minutes
Joint Workshop Page 7 of 7