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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11092006 ZPC Minutes OLM City of West University Place A Neighborhood City ® Recycled Paper ZONING & PLANNING COMMISSION BILL WATSON CONFERENCE ROOM 3800 UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD MEETING MINUTES November 9, 2006 MEMBERS PRESENT: Steve Brown, Jeffrey Horowitz, Robert Inaba, Michael Silver, Les Albin and Mac McManus (arrived at 6:15 p.m. during agenda item 2) MEMBERS ABSENT: Beth Beloff STAFF PRESENT: Chris Peifer, Public Works Director/ACM, Debbie Scarcella, Chief Building Official, Sallye A. Clark, Planning Assistant and James Dougherty, City Legal Counsel Call to Order - With quorum present at 6:07 p.m., Steve Brown called the meeting to order. 1. Minutes. October 12, 2006: Les Albin made a motion to approve the minutes as written. Michael Silver seconded. Ayes: Steve Brown, Michael Silver, Jeffrey Horowitz, Bob Inaba and Les Albin. Noes: none. Motion passed. Minutes approved. 2. Framed Area and Related Regulations; Amendments. ZPC discussed preparations for the joint public hearing on Nov. 13. The need for a quorum and the importance of hearing what the public has to say so that we will be able to make an informed decision on Dec. 14 were emphasized. ZPC also discussed the proposals for "sloped height setback", the "attic exception" and "framed area vs. lot area." Les Albin was asked to work with Debbie Scarcella to develop some illustrations and, possibly, other tools that would help the ZPC test how these changes might work if put in place, identify possible unintended consequences and help other members better understand the need for these changes. Tim Hanson, a resident and architectural professional in attendance suggested that he might be able to prepare an outline proposal for a simplified "bulk control" ordinance to replace the framed area concept. He will send his proposal to Chris Peifer. Steve Brown went over the memo from Jonathan Smulian, Senior Associate at Wallace, Roberts and Todd in reference to "framed area." Jeffrey Horowitz left during agenda item 3 at 7:47 p.m. with a quorum still present. 3. Town Center and Commercial Areas; PDD's. ZPC briefly reviewed the latest versiontotf the "potential objectives" and the "QPED 3800 univers ty,%ourevara.vesrUJanyvefycAace, Texas %~OtO15o~6 a1 s~lf 96~o41~etn~i~W.w nu o g i Zoning & Planning Commission Minutes November 9, 2006 Meeting Page 2 of 2 design/planning firm to prepare sketches, do some practicality testing and serve as facilitator for preparation and holding a public meeting to get ideas for and reactions to town center redevelopment options. Tim Hanson, a resident and architectural professional in attendance may also have something to offer in this area. It was suggested that ZPC members check out the commercial area at Hazard and Westheimer (across from Lanier) for town center ideas. Bob Inaba agreed to make an informal contact with a developer to seek ideas on design and economics of development that might be practical and economically viable in our town center. The importance of involving key stakeholders (school/parents, land owners, nearby residents) was discussed. 4. Topics for review for 2006 - 2007. This item was not discussed. Adjournment. Les Albin made a motion to adjourn. Mac Manus seconded. Ayes: Steve Brown, Michael Silver, Bob Inaba, Les Albin and Mac McManus. Noes: none. Motion passed. Meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m. Attachments: Email from Richard Yehle to Steve Brown dated 11-2-2006, Re: Porches Amendment regarding a formula for framed area, 11-5-2006/LAlbin Amendment to add "sloped setback" height limits, 11-4-06/Lalbin Amend Schedule FA as follows, dated 11-6-2006/Lalbin Amendment to add "sloped setback" height limits with "penetrating volume", dated 11-6- 06 Amend Schedule FA as follows, dated 11-6-2006 Proposed regulations for a "C-PED" district, dated 10-10-06, Marked to identify major changes from existing regulations in the C District. Proposed regulations for a "C-PED" district, dated 10-10-06 (clean version not marked) Memo from Chris Peifer and Debbie Scarcella, dated 10/23/2006, re: Zoning Regulations Assessment Letter Memo from Jonathan Smulian, Senior Associate, Wallace, Roberts and Todd, dated 9-22- 2006, re: Framed Area Agenda for Town Center Discussion, dated November 9, 2006 Resolution by the ZPC relating to QPEDS with amendments, dated 11-2006 Potential Objectives, town center dated 10-30-2006 Zoning & Planning Commission Minutes November 9, 2006 Meeting Page 3 of 3 PASSED THIS DAY, OF , 2006. Steve Brown, Presiding Officer ATTEST,,') a allye A. Clark, P 'ring Assistant Page 1 of 1 Sallye Clark From: Steve Brown [sgbrown@hal-pc.org] Sent: Thursday, November 09, 2006 10:02 AM To: Sallye Clark Cc: Chris Peifer; Debbie Scarcella Subject: Fwd: Porches Sallye, Please forward this message to the other members of the ZPC. Thanks, Steve Begin forwarded message: From: "Richard Yehle" <reyehle _houston.rr.com> Date: November 2, 2006 8:29:11 AM CST To: "Steve Brown" <sgbrown @hal-pc.org> Subject: Porches Steve, As ZPC reviews the "porch" situation, I offer my house as an example. My porch extends into the front yard and has a certain extra mass above it, making it appropriate for discussion. I see my house as an example but not a problem. It is an example because the porch a) extends into the front yard, b) is only slightly more than 50% open, and c) has considerable enclosed space above it. (Although not part of this discussion, the space is an unfinished attic that could easily be incorporated into the house by an unscrupulous person, and since there are no windows no one would know.) I don't see the house as being a problem because a) the front setback on a 150' lot is relatively generous, b) the height of my porch is modest, and c) the scale of my house is modest. In the context of the ordinance being considered, perhaps the factors that keep my house from being a problem (if you agree it is not a problem) should be considered. I think I like the proposed change. I also like the promotion of friendly, useful front porches and want to be sure we consider all angles of the issue before limiting them. Dick This E-Mail and any files attached to it contain confidential information. Please notify the sender if you have received this E-Mail in error. If you are not the intended recipient, any use or disclosure of this E-Mail or any attached files is prohibited! 11/9/2006 Amendment regarding a formula for framed area 11-5-061 LA/bin Amend Table 7-4b (both pages) as follows: Table 7-4b• Buildings General Rule: Every structure must conform to the applicable regulations shown, by District, in this table.("N/A" means the rule does not apply.) Exceptions/Special Rules: (1) See special rules noted in table. (2) See Article 9 re ardin Planned Develo ment Districts. Item Regulation SF-I SF-2 SF-3 TH GR-I GR-2 C Dwelling units Maximum number per One, plus one accessory quarters (AQ) 17.5 per Two 24 per acre. See Uses building site acre. See table and Note 8 Art. 9 Framed area, all buildings Maximum area as a 80% 4.000 sq. ft. plus 50% of the area 100% See Note 4. N/A on a building site percentage of building of the building site in excess of 5.000 site area 5k, ft. Length or width, any Maximum horizontal N/A 130 feet. See Note 3. N/A building dimension Exterior materials, any Type N/A Must be of equal grade and quality, all sides. See building. Section 8-104. Separation of DU's Fire-rated wall N/A A t, wur-hour fire wall, or its equivalent, must separate ldl oinink dwelling units. See Notes 3 and 5. SF privacy protection See Note 7. N/A Applies. N/A Accessory buildings Maximum number per Three N/A building site See Article 10 regarding garage space. Height, maximum 25 ft. 35 ft. See Note 2. Principal buildings Stories, maximum Two and one-halt. Three. See Note 6. N/A See Article 10 regarding garage space. Height, maximum 35 feet; 25 feet in rear yard. See Note 1 35 ft. or less. See Note 2. Minimum gross floor 1,400 square feet, if used for residential 1,200 sq. 750 sq. ft, each DU 1,400 sq. area purposes ft., each ft. DU. Width, minimum N/A 16 ft., each N/A But see QMDS N/A DU. Schedule. Note 1. Antennas and Chimneys. Roof-mounted radio or television antennas on a principal building in a residential district may project up to four feet above the roof. The maximum height of chimneys attached to a principal building is the greater of 35 feet or four feet above the roof. r Amendment to add "sloped setback" height limits 11-4-061LAtbin Amend Table 7-4b (both pages) as follows: Table 7-4b: Buildings General Rule: Every structure must conform to the applicable regulations shown, by District, in this table.("N/A" means the rule does not apply.) Exceptions/Special Rules: (1) See special rules noted in table. (2) See Article 9 re ardin Planned Develo ment Districts. Item Regulation SF-I SF-2 SF-3 TH GR-1 GR-2 C Dwelling units Maximum number per One, plus one accessory quarters (AQ) 17.5 per Two 24 per acre. See Uses building site acre. See table and Note 8 Art. 9 Framed area, all buildings Maximum area as a 80% 100% See Note 4. N/A on a building site percentage of building site area Length or width, any Maximum horizontal N/A 130 feet. See Note 3. N/A building dimension Exterior materials, any Type N/A Must be of equal grade and quality, all sides. See building. Section 8-104. Separation of DU's Fire-rated wall N/A A i,~nr-hour fire wall, or its equivalent, must separate ui`dinitt dwelling units. See Notes 3 and S. SF privacy protection See Note 7. N/A Applies. N/A Accessory buildings Maximum number per Three N/A building site See Article 10 regarding garage space. Height, maximum 23 ft. Other thin himneys, no part of an accessM building may be hi er than 35 ft. See 20 feet plu> ncc hoi uontal distance from that part to the nearest property line (not Note 2. to exceed 25 icet wt, l). See Figure HRD. This is a "sloped" height limit. See also Notes 1 and 10. Principal buildings Stories, maximum Two and one-half. Three. See Note 6. N/A See Article 10 regarding garage space. Height, maximum 35 feeti -25 feet in rear • afd See ete ' No part of a principal building may be 35 ft. or higher than 20 feet plus the horizontal distance from that part to the nearest less. See property line (not to exceed 35 feet total). See Figure HRD. This is a "sloped" Note 2. height limit. See also Notes 1 and 10. Minimum gross floor 1,400 square feet, if used for residential 1,200 sq. 750 sq. ft, each DU 1,400 sq. area purposes ft., each ft. DU. Width, minimum N/A 16 ft., each N/A But see QMDS N/A DU. Schedule. Note 1. Antennas and Chimneys. Roof-mounted radio or television antennas on a principal building in a residential district may project up to four feet above the roof. The maximum height of chimneys attached to a principal building is the greater of 35 feet or four feet above the roof. Note 10. Dormers and Gables. An ordinary dormer or gable in a residential district may exceed the sloped height limit if. (i) not part exceeds the maximum height (35 feet, or 25 feet in rear yard): (ii) the penetrating volume does not exceed 10 sq ft times the depth of the lot in feet, in the aggregate. In his note. "penetrating volume" means the volume enclosed by any part of any and all dormers or gables that exceed the sloped height limit. Figure HRD Sloped Height Limit in Residential Districts i i i i Height limit (non-yard areas); see Table 7-4b I I -------------------I 35 feet (height) I I I I I I I I I I I 45-degree angle i 20 feet (height) I I I I I I Side property line Side property line I I I I I I I I Standard base level Conceptual view from front street line. Lower height limit applies in rear yard. Not to scale. Note: Many other regulations apply, in addition to those shown in this figure. Nothing in this figure allows structures to be located in yards or "setbacks." See Tables 7-2 and 7-6. Draft date 11-6-200611-Albin Amend Schedule FA as follows: SCHEDULE FA (FRAMED AREA) A. General rule: Framed area reflects the size of a building, in square footage. Framed area includes all floor and ground areas under a solid, fixed roof, except the uncounted areas listed in this Schedule. Floor and ground areas are measured, on each level, according to the measurement method set out below. For each building, the measured areas for each level are totaled to produce the framed area of the building. B. Measurement method: For each level of a building, the framed area is the area of an imaginary, horizontal, unbroken plane immediately atop the structure supporting the floor (or immediately atop the ground, where there is no floor). Each plane extends horizontally to the outer main wall surfaces of the building, or to the outer perimeter of the structure above (whichever is outermost). For this purpose: 1. steps, landings, sunken areas, floor openings and similar features are not considered separate levels, so there is no plane on those levels; 2. each plane extends to the outer wall surfaces of bay windows, cantilevered space and similar space on the same floor, regardless of the height of the floor; 3. if there is a "split level" or similar irregular floor level, the building official may designate either one level to define the imaginary plane for that floor, or separate planes for the separate levels; and 4. if area (all or part) within a one-story building has an interior height exceeding 19 feet, the area is doubled to calculate framed area (and if it has a interior h6Lht exceeding 31 feet, the area is tripled). C. Uncounted areas: The following areas are not counted a, framed` area: 1. attic area that cannot be reached through a fixed accessway; 2. third floor area where none of the roof or left or riLht sides of the structure (e.g., a plane, a cone) has a pitch less than "4-in-12" nor greater than ■12-in-12. (45 degrees) beginning at a lower edge (eave) at a height below 25 feet and either rising to a peak pOML or rising to meet another such roof surface at a ridgeline (or peak point); see Figure t, i- - *.ea whefe there is a interior- height less than seven , 3. those non-attic parts of an imaginary plane on a second or third-floor level, above which there is less than seven feet of interior height; 4. area beneath eaves, cornices, roof extensions, "greenhouse" or bay windows, cantilevered space and similar parts of buildings that project outward from the main wall of a building no more than 24 inches, if the area is on a lower floor level (or at ground level) and is otherwise completely open to the outdoors; 5. unenclosed porch area of a principal building, if the longest side of the porch directly faces the front street line or side street line of the building site, and the area is neither designed nor usable for motor vehicles; 6. the area of "crawl space" at ground level; 7. unenclosed walkway or "breezeway" area if: (A) the area directly connects a principal building to an accessory building containing garage space located behind the principal building; (B) the total covered width of the area does not exceed eight feet; and (C) no part of the roof is higher than 14 feet; 8. area of recessed entries (garage or home) or windows that is completely open to the outdoors on at least one side, if: (A) each area faces the front street line or side street line of the building site, (B) each area is not larger than 100 square feet, and (C) the total of all such uncounted recessed area is less than 200 square feet; and 9. basement area if: (A) the floor is at least five feet lower than the standard base level of the site, and (B) the interior height does not exceed eight feet. (The rules for uncounted areas shall be strictly construed and applied to the defined areas only.) [Drawings may be added.] Amendment to add "sloped setback" height limits with "penetrating volume" 11-64-06 Amend Table 7-4b (both pages) as follows: Table 7-4b: Buildings General Rule: Every structure must conform to shown., by District, in this table.("N/A means the rule does not a Ezc (1) See specrial rules noted in table. (2) See Article 9 regarding vel item Regulation SF-I SF-2 SF TH R- Dwelling units Maximum number per One, plus one accessory quarters (AQ Two a Uses building site table and Art 9 Framed area, all buildings Maximum area as a 80% 00'/o N/A on a building site percentage ofbuilding site area Length or width, any Maximum horizontal N/A t See Note 3. N/A building dimension Exterior materials, any Type N/A and quality, all sides- See building. Sec Separation of DU's Fite-rated wall N/A A fo fire wall, or its equivalent, must separate li units. See Notes 3 and 5. SF privacy protection See Note 7. N/ N/A Accessorybuildings Maximum number per N/A building site See Article 10 regarding garage space. part ofan accessory building may be high- than 20 35 ft See lus the that part to the nearest Mpy!y line not to Note 2. 5 feet to D. This is a "sloped" height limit See also d 10. Principal buil ' 'es, maximum Two £ Three. See Note 6 N/A See Article 10 rega garage space. of Imefd to -1 No part of a mincioal building may be higher 35 ft or plus the horizontal distance from thatpart to the nearest Propertyline not less See 5 feet total . See Fi 11RD. This is a "sloped"height limit. See also Note 2. and 10. Minimum gross floor 1,400 square feet, if used for residential 1,200 sq_ 750 sq. fl, each DU 1,400 sq. area purposes ft, each ft DU. Width, minimum N/A 16 ft, each NIA But see QMDS N/A DU. Schedule. Note 1. Antennas and Chimneys. Roof-mounted radio or television antennas on a principal building in a residential district may project up to four feet above the roof The maximum height of chimneys attached to a principal building is the greater of 35 feet or four feet above the roof •ff Note 10. Dormers and Gables. An_ )rdinary dormers -lid ,iL i ck . If .>ktl-le in a residential district may exceed ,t 1> n_ -t rut: the sloped height limit if (i) no+part exceeds the maximum heip_ht(35feet,or 25feet in rear yard);.ij it thet.-tal ul Icc~ 11 n~~t~ nn.~aunu-~~n_thehuildina~itc e+ r .3t+ , { edces not exceed 10 tt++>~-the depth ofthe lot i, i l in feet . in 4te t-- ee`tg. In his note, "Uenetratittg volute" means the volume t' p n, r, rte , < l sa, . , l met-z ale:-that exceed (nr p' netr.ue"L a sloped hei t limit _ Figure HRD Sloped Height Limit in Residential Districts I 1 I Height limit (non-yard areas); see Table 7-4b i I I------------ (height I 1 I I I I I I t ee angle I 0 feet (height) I I I I Side property line e I I I I I I I I I I I Stan I Conceptual view from front street line- Lowe plies in rear yard. ' Not to scale. 7im Note: Many o s apply, in additio a shown in this figure. Nothing in this figure allows structures to be located i cks." See 2 and 7-6. I Draft date 11-6-2006 Amend Schedule FA as follows: SCHEDULE FA (FRAMED AREA) A. General rule: Framed area reflects the size of a building, in square f F area includes all floor and ground areas under a solid, fixed roof, except the uncounted ar lis e. Floor and ground areas are measured, on each level, according to the measuremen s For each budding, the measured areas for each level are totaled to produce the f the B. Measurement method: For each level of a building, the area o~ unbroken plane immediately atop the structure supporting the fl 'ately atop t ere there is no floor). Each plane extends horizontally to the outer ma* of the boil o the outer perimeter of the structure above (whichever is outermost). For 1. steps, landings, sunken areas, floor openings and similar fea separate levels, so there is no plane on those levels; 2. each plane extends to the outer wall surfaces of tilever d similar space on the same floor, regardless of the height of the 3. if there is a "split level" or similar irregular vel, vial may designate either one level to define the imaginary plane for that r sep eparate levels; and 4. if area (all or part) within a one-story boil ' or 19 feet, the area is doubled to calculate framed area (an " 't int ght 31 feet, the area is tripled). C. Uncounted areas: The following area t counted 1. attic area that cannot be reach a fixed a 2. third floor area beaeith a_re #ii~e 1~c+ +~ic t _e }<x~#` f #e#t_t t+1~t_cie~_et #lie ( a cone) i 1 h G neither- "4-in-12" nor eater than ■12-in-12. 45 degrees), t a low aid eave) at a height below 25 feet and rises to meet another such roof surface at a - I.Ciot less 3. -attic parts of an a on a second or third floor level, above which there is less of interior height; 4. az es, cornices, roo ions, "greenhouse" or bay windows, cantilevered space and sinril dings that tward from the main wall of a building no more than 24 inches, if the area floor at ground level) and is otherwise completely open to the outdoors; 5. unenclosed porch al building, if the longest side of the porch directly faces the front street line or side str a building site, and the area is neither designed nor usable for motor vehicles; 6. the area of crawl space at ground level; 7. unenclosed walkway or "breezeway" area if (A) the area directly connects a principal building to an accessory building containing garage space located behind the principal building, (B) the total covered width of the area does not exceed eight feet; and (C) no part of the roof is higher than 14 feet; 8. area of recessed entries (garage or home) or windows that is completely open to the outdoors on at least one side, if (A) each area faces the front street line or side street line of the building site, (B) each area is not larger than 100 square feet, and (C) the total of all such uncounted recessed area is less than 200 square feet and 9. basement area if. (A) the floor is at least five feet lower than the standard base level of the site, and (B) the interior height does not exceed eight feet. (The rules for uncounted areas shall be strictly construed and applied to the defined areas only.) [Drawings may be added.] Proposed regulations for a "C-PED" district 10-10-06 Marked to identify major changes from existing regulations in the C District. This chart assumes that general exceptions and notes in Tables 7-1 through o reserved as separate sections and would apply in the C-PED District. Purpose The purposes of this district rare: (i) to provide re or atible with nearby I residential areas ii to encourage access b dest d iii g of - intensive land uses. Uses Allowed single family LAny and or er may be residential (on building_sites cly owned. where the principal use is commercial) For PW F Schedule. Park, playground, community cente school (public) place of wo Private green Uti ' ce use rcial Allowed only if rcial A special exception may authorize school auth cial (other) use on sites wholly or partially within e Schoo this district. For PWSF use, see PWSF Schedule. Yards or yard , min.: 38 _ ont sidewalk area if dedicated as a limited ublic "setba t counts as ont rd. See: Note 1 re ardin structures above sidewalks. maximum building setback rule below. for a nt ~wd less than 30 feet deep abu4ting a n*or- theFeeghfffe, i 5 ft. The ZBA may issue a special exception for a zero-width side ut only upon application by both property owners and only if the special ption is conditioned upon the construction and maintenance of a common wall continuously-abutting separate walls (in either case with a four-hour fire rating or better along the rtyli Street side yard Width, min.: 8 ft. See: Note 1 regarding structures above I sidewalks. Rear yard Depth, min.: 3-50 ft. Rear alley area counts as rear yard. See: Note 2 regarding rear y~jjd, screein etc. SF Bufferyard Depth, min: 10 ft. See: Note 2 regarding rear yard, screeing etc. Open area Front yard, min.: N/A 1 pervious Rear yard min.: N/A See: Note 2 regarding rear yard, screeing etc. areas Entire building site, min.: 15% Pervious area Front yard, min.: N/A See Note 2 regarding rear yard, screeing, etc. Rear yard, min.: N/A Entire building site, min.: 15% Landscaping strips Required. Notes in additional , apply to andsc Qualified trees Each qualified tree required eegua4 apply by this ordinance or Chapter' r~ 22 of the Code of Ordinance must be located within a dditi rvious area may be contiguous and reasona required to hapter 22. compact pervious ar ad'acent to the fir containing at le 41-SF Pervious pavement Prehibite"I Parking areas, interior See: re ardin r scree' c. Eat ParlFi~g st'ea eenteining 21 O Garage Min. See Article 10 space Buildings late ge dimensions I not re ulated) uvering area atedled et lated) ope Limit on non (not regulated) space Dwelling units See Uses table and AA. Any DU must be on a building site where the 9Neither number nor type is principal use is commercial. regulated. Framed area (not regulated) 2 Length, width (not regulated) Exterior materials Must be of equal grade and quality, all sides. See Section 8-104. Separation of DU's A four-hour fire wall, or its equivalent, must separate adjoining dwelling units. SF privacy protection (net regulate-IIApplies> Accessory buildings Number, max.: (not regulated) Height, max.: 35 ft. Principal buildings Stories, max: (not regul e h a d to a Height, max.: 3340 feet lding is GFA, min: 1,400 SF ve the roof. Width, min.: (Hot fogtilat (see Note 5) Setback, max. (see Note 5) Parldng, Off-street parking Number, loca , desi use, layout, etc.. See below Driveways, spaces and parking an ee Note 4. Etc. areas Gro r sh g. Not d without a special exception„ but Other regulations se a 10. apply; see, e.g. Article 10. king areas g spaces for nen may only be used for motor vehicle parking. E ay 20 a public or private street, to each principal building and each DU (or pen area accessible to firefighters and equipment). Other gulations code. veways andpriv min.: ets ttse~ _1-10 feet, or 17 feet if two-way and seFN4ng tlfee e regulations e.g. Article : 24 ft. (or 35 feet if connecting to a major thoroughfare). Fef any other- usei 30 feet (e Nlwd umleftg49.enpth, max.: (not regulated) along eefiler-line &om fiff4hest efid paint. A longer driveway is allowed if there is 3 Route, location: H. See Note 4. Spacing I F"" flan SF-P There must be at least 40 feet between the "inside" apron edges (at their narrowest points) of driveways serving the same building site. Pavement Re3nRif-ed tyre See 49te 4- twin " :Reinforced concrete for previous pavement); and vehicular areas. The ZBA may issue a special to a ds y will provide equal or better d Markings; wheel of flan SFD Parking learly marked t, and stops. wheel stops are required. Curb cuts Number: Other regulations *se-Maximum one nt of street may issue a special Fillawsd apply; see, e.g. Article exception for addi 10. M r 50-ft. of stre Fo aprons) p veway width allowed. Each curb cut fined to the a that directly abuts the building site(s) Visibility triangles ations apply. Certain S Num ed) structures courts r: (not N/A 1 structures maximum: 35 ft. However, no part of any structure except a fence) may be higher than the horizontal distance from that part to the nearest part of an SF District. s max.: 15 ft. Outdoor lights must have full "cut-off' features to revent li t trespass to adjoining SF Districts. The desivn, color, and other li tin ents must be co atible with Public lighting in the vicinity. Note 1: Sidewalk Areas. With and street side vard, there must be a continuous pedestrian walkway area at least ei t feet wide and ei ee to connect building entrances to the street area and to adjacent building sites. Walkway material must match existing material (e.g., brick pavers) used for public sidewalks in vicinity. Building canopies or balconies (with posts) may cover the sidewalk area if (i) the sidewalk area is dedicated to the public to a depth of at least eight feet and a height of at least ten feet along the full length of each street line, (ii) normal sidewalk use is preserved (iii) only open deck area (with open-air uses) is allowed above the sidewalk area, and (iv) any signs above the sidewalk areas conform to a master sign plan for the area, approved by the administrative official. Note 2. Rear Parkin, Areas. All parking spaces must located behind aprincipal building or within an enclosed garage. Parking areas must be designed so that aisles may be extended to connect with each adjacent street area, alley area and building site. Each parking must be screened from any nearby SF District by special screens (finished side facing out) and a 4 parallel landscaped strip at least six feet wide with either evergreen tall shrubs (or small trees) planted on six-foot centers (or closer). See Fig. 1. Note 3. Street Landscaping Areas. There must be least one landscaped area for each 50 feet of the combined length of front and side street lines (or part thereof). Each landscaped area must include at least 50 SF with low shrubs or plants and at least one qualified tree. Landscape areas may include artwork benches fountains, and other pedestrian oriented amenities. Landscape. areas may be located within the front part of the site or (with permission of the City Council) in the adjacent street area, or partly in each area. Note 4. Parkin and alle s. Notwithstanding any provision of this ordinance space may be located in whole or in art within an alley adjacent to the rear of the buildin te. must be connected b rivate driveways direct) to a street area and to each adjacent site he rear of each site). Exception: Direct connection to a street area is not required re is ion via alle Note 5. Maximum Buildin Setback. The front main wall of each ri d' of be foM6p the front street line. The width of the buildin at the front mai east as wi excluding the width of side yards and driveways actually used. l r Proposed regulations for a "C-PED" district 10-10-06 (CLEAN version, not marked) This chart assumes that general exceptions and notes in Tables 7-1 through 7-5b would be preserved as separate sections and would apply in the C-PED District. Purpose The purposes of this district are: (i) to provide regulations for commercial areas compatible with nearby residential areas, (ii) to encourage access by pedestrians, and (iii) to provide for buffering of less-intensive land uses. Uses Allowed Any residential (on building A park, playground or community center may be sites where the principal use is privately or publicly owned. commercial) For PWSF use, see PWSF Schedule. Park, playground, or community center (public), school (public), place of worship Private green space Utility or service use Light commercial Allowed only if Medium comiiiercial A special exception may authorize school authorized by special (other) use on sites wholly or partially within exception School wi her i this district. For PWSF use, see PWSF Schedule. Yards or Front yard Depth, min.: 8 ft, I ~ront sidewalk area (if dedicated as a limited public easement) "setbacks" counts as front yard. See: Note 1 regarding structures above sidewalks. See, also, maximum building setback rule, below. Interior side yard Width, min.: 5 ft. The ZBA may issue a special exception for a zero-width side yard, but only upon application by both property owners and only if the special exception is conditioned upon the construction and maintenance of a common wall or continuously-abutting separate walls (in either case with a four-hour fire rating or better) along the property Street side yard Width, min.: 8 ft. See: Note I regarding structures above sidewalks. Rear yard Depth, min.: 50 ft. Rear alley area counts as rear yard. See: Note 2 regarding rear yard, screening, etc. SF Bufferyard Depth, min: 10 ft. See: Note 2 regarding rear yard, screening, etc. Open and Open area Front yard, min.: N/A pervious areas Rear yard min.: N/A See: Note 2 regarding rear yard, screening, etc. Entire building site, min.: 15% 1 Pervious area Front yard, min.: N/A See: Note 2 regarding rear yard, screening, etc. Rear yard, min.: N/A Entire building site, min.: 15% Landscaping strips Required. See Notes 2 and 3 regarding additional landscaped areas. Qualified trees Each qualified tree required Additional or better pervious area may be by this ordinance or Chapter required to comply with Chapter 22. 22 of the Code of Ordinance must be located within a contiguous and reasonably compact pervious area in or adjacent to the front yard and containing at least 50 SF Pervious pavement Allowed. Parking areas, interior See: Note 2 regarding rear yard, screening, etc. Garage Garage parking spaces (not regulated) See Article 10 space Buildings Garage dimensions (not regulated) Maneuvering area (not regulated. Facing of door or (not regulated) opening Limit on non-garage (not regulai - 1 space Dwelling units Neither number nor type is Any DU must be on a building site where the regulated. principal use is commercial. Framed area (not regulated) Length, width (not regulated) Exterior materials Must be of equal grade and quality, all sides. See Section 8-104. Separation of DU's A four-hour fire wall, or its equivalent, must separate adjoining dwelling units. SF privacy protection Applies> Accessory buildings Number, max.: (not regulated) Height, max.: 35 ft. 2 Principal buildings Stories, max: (not regulated) The maximum height of chimneys attached to a Height, max.: 40 feet principal building is the greater of 35 feet or GFA, min: 1,400 SF four feet above the roof. Width, min.: (see Note 5) Setback, max. (see Note 5) Parking, Off-street parking Number, location, size, design Depends on land use, layout, etc.. See below Driveways, spaces and parking and Article 10. See Note 4. Etc. areas Grouping or sharing. Not allowed without a special exception, but see Other regulations Article 10. apply; see, e.g. Article 10. Use of parking areas Parking spaces may only be used for motor vehicle parking. Emergency accessway 20 ft. min. width, via public or private street, to each principal building and each DU (or to an adjacent open area accessible to firefighters and equipment). Other regulations apply, e.g, fire code. Driveways and private Width, min.: 10 feet, or 17 feet if two-way streets Other regulations apply; see, e.g. Article Width, max.: 24 ft. (or 35 feet if connecting to a major thoroughfare). 10. Length, max.: (not regulated) Route, location: See Nff is t. Spacin-: There mu>i he at least 40 feet between the "inside" apron edges (at their nan wxv ~t p wi t o l drivoways serving the same building site. Pavement Reinforced r mcretc (or previous pavement) with curbs and drains required for all vehicular areas. The ZBA may issue a special exception to allow other materials if it finds that they will provide equal or better durability. Markings; wheel Parking spaces must be clearly marked on the pavement, and wheel stops are stops. required. Curb cuts Number: Maximum one per 50-ft. segment of street line. The ZBA may issue a special exception for additional curb cuts. Other regulations apply; see, e.g. Article 10. Max. width per 50-ft. segment of street line: Four feet (for aprons) plus the maximum driveway width allowed. Each curb cut must be confined to the part of the street area that directly abuts the building site(s) served. Visibility triangles Standard regulations apply. 3 Certain Swimming pools Number: (not regulated) structures Tennis courts Number: (not regulated) N/A All structures Height, maximum: 35 ft. However, no part of any structure except a fence) may be higher than the horizontal distance from that part to the nearest part of an SF District. Outdoor lights Height, max.: 15 ft. Outdoor lights must have full "cut-off' features to prevent direct light trespass to adjoining SF Districts. The design, color, and other lighting elements must be compatible with public lighting in the vicinity. Note 1: Sidewalk Areas. Within each front and street side yard, there must be a continuous pedestrian walkway area at least eight feet wide and eight feet deep to connect building entrances to the street area and to adjacent building sites. Walkway material must match existing material (e.g., brick pavers) used for public sidewalks in vicinity. Building canopies or balconies (with posts) may cover the sidewalk area if: (i) the sidewalk area is dedicated to the public to a depth of at least eight feet and a height of at least ten feet along the full length of each street line, (ii) normal sidewalk use is preserved, (iii) only open deck area (with open-air uses) is allowed above the sidewalk area, and (iv) any signs above the sidewalk areas conform to a master sign plan for the area, approved by the administrative official. Note 2. Rear Parking Areas. All parking spaces must located behind a principal building or within an enclosed garage. Parking areas must be designed so that aisles may be extended to connect with each adjacent street area, alley area and building site. Each parking must be screened from any nearby SF District by special screens (finished side facing out) and a parallel landscaped strip at least six feet wide with either evergreen tall shrubs or small trees planted on six-foot centers (or closer). See Fig. 1. Note 3. Street Landscaping Areas. There must be least one landscaped area fiu c ach 50 feet of the combined length of front and side street lines (or part thereof). Each landscaped area must ini I u o at least 50 SF with low shrubs or plants and at least one qualified tree. Landscape areas may include amvorh, bens he Countains, and other pedestrian oriented amenities. Landscape areas may be located within th,2 fnoni pari ~,f the site or (with permission of the City Council) in the adjacent street area, or partly in each area. Note 4. Parking and alleys. Notwithstanding ar% other 1)m\ i~it)n oI' this ordinance, any required parking space may be located in whole or in part within an alley adjacent to the i cm of t he building site. Each parking space must be connected by private driveways directly to a street area and to ~oJi adjacent building site (or an alley at the rear of each site). Exception: Direct connection to a street area is not required where there is an indirect connection via alleys. Note S. Maximum Building Setback. The front main wall of each principal building may not be farther than ten feet from the front street line. The width of the building, at the front main wall, must be at least as wide as the building site, excluding the width of side yards and driveways actually used. 4 Memo To: Members of City Council, Zoning and Planning Commission From: Chris Peifer, Assistant City Manager/Public Works Director Debbie Scarcella, Building Official Date: 10/23/2006 Re: Zoning Regulations Assessment Letter City Council included $25,000 in the 2006 budget to engage a consultant to assist the City with reviewing its 80% rule. Staff sought out a respected planning consultant in the region for guidance. Attached is a letter from Jonathan Smulian, Senior Associate with Wallace, Roberts, & Todd, LLC, a planning and consulting firm. Mr. Smulian met with members of staff and the Chairman of the Zoning and Planning Commission upon reviewing various sections of the zoning regulations as well as proposed amendments. This process was to determine if it was necessary to present a proposal for consulting as it relates to "framed area" requirements and potential overdevelopment of lots within West University Place. It is Mr. Smulian's recommendation that the city wait for a period of one year to see if the ordinance is effective in achieving development objectives for single-family district sites. His recommendation is based on the fact that the zoning regulations pertaining to framed area were recently modified on several occasions and a significant amount of redevelopment has already occurred (approximately 60%). He suggests that, after addressing the current proposed changes and before enacting significant new controls in the future, the city should test whether the existing process is effective in achieving development goals. He further suggests that many of the previous concerns have been clarified and that because of the city's size, the staffing structure needed to support a more sophisticated and complex process might be imprudent. 1 MEMO 22 September 2006 To: M. Christopher Peifer Asst. City Manager /Director of Public Works City of West University Place, Texas Thank you for inviting me to make a proposal on behalf of Wallace Roberts & Todd LLC (WRT) related to the City of West University Place's concern for potential "overdevelopment" in single-family detached residential neighborhoods. In this regard I have reviewed relevant regulations and the background to the current "framed area" provisions. In order to get a clearer picture of the city's concerns about this issue I have also met with some key staff members as well as the Chairman of the ZPC and its legal consultant. My understanding is that the city seeks to encourage innovative design in the development of new or remodeled S-F detached housing that would enhance and maintain the unique quality of life of the city and would be compatible with the scale and character of existing housing in West U while safeguarding a number of desired aesthetic and functional standards. After careful consideration, it is my professional opinion that, before seeking to investigate the possibility of introducing significantly new control procedures, the city might be wise to wait for a period of a year. This would be to see whether the existing ordinance, as recently modified, is effective in achieving the city's development objectives for detached single family residential development. This would also give the city time to test whether the existing process, as modified, might be more effective in simplifying administrative procedures and be more understandable to citizens , their representatives and potential developers as well as city staff who have to deal with "overdevelopment" concerns. My conclusion is based on my understanding that only about one third of the city's housing stock has not already been redeveloped or substantially modified and my observation that, over time, many of the previous concerns raised about the "framed area" regulations have been clarified. It is also posited on the understanding that a city, the size of West U is unlikely to support the staffing structure that may be necessary to administer a more technologically sophisticated and potentially complex process. As urban planners we are sorry that we cannot take this opportunity to work with West U as we are particularly interested in the management of change in a very special city and would welcome the opportunity to provide consultancy services on some future occasion. I trust that you will consider WRT should other urban design, planning or landscape architecture projects be contemplated by the city. Jonathan Smulian FRTPI Senior Associate Wallace Roberts & Todd LLC Tel:713 863 9969, Fax : 713 863 9410 E-mail : jsmulian@wrtdesign.com Draft date 11-7-2006 Agenda for Town Center Discussion ZPC November 9, 2006 1. Review/modify/endorse Potential Objectives from 6/10/2004, revised 10/30/2006 2. Review/modify/endorse proposed resolution providing QPED design guidelines as revised 10/31/2006. Weigh need for a similar resolution to accompany C-PED zoning. 3. Decide to move forward on hiring a design/planning firm or on working with Kirksey pro bono to produce sketches that show conceptually what the design guidelines could produce and back-test the guidelines under various conditions. 4. Decide on a plan and timing for a public Town Center Design Workshop The proposal for discussion is a well publicized and well timed meeting of the ZPC at which our proposal for the town center would be presented to the public for their reaction/input/guidance. A facilitator would be employed to take the lead at the workshop and do the bulk of the work in preparing for it. The facilitator would work under the guidance of the ZPC and City staff. Envisioned for the workshop are a PowerPoint presentation to introduce the topic, outline important objectives, highlight key issues and options, and address the decisions that need to be made. To stimulate discussion there would be illustrations of what the town center might look like and photos of other towns where "desirable" redevelopment with similarities to ours is taking place. Small- group discussions would be encouraged and breakout guidelines for the workshop would be part of the facilitator's assignment. To ensure participation by key stakeholders, personal invitations by ZPC members to the property owners and nearby residents might be appropriate. 5. Discussion of proposed C-PED zoning regulations (if time permits) Draft date 11-6-2006 A RESOLUTION by The Zoning and Planning Commission of the City of West University Place, Texas relating to Qualified Pedestrian-Enhanced Developments November 2006 Purpose: Provide design guidelines, endorsed by the Zoning and Planning Commission ("ZPC"), for qualified pedestrian-enhanced developments ("QPEDs") in the City's commercial zones. Background: 1. The ZPC has approved a preliminary report (the "report") on a proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of West University Place relating to qualified pedestrian- enhanced developments; 2. The report addresses the ZPC's proposal to add a new Section 8-116 to the Zoning Ordinance which would allow the City to issue Spccal Use Permits for QPEDs; 3. QPEDs would be limited to the City's C District (i.e., Commercial District) and would require a plat or re-plat that addressed, among ocher things, (a) off street parking (located generally at the rear of the affected huildin(, sites), and (b) reserves for landscaping and screening; 4. Special Use Permits for a QPED could permit, in certain approved site specific situations, (a) shared or reduced parking, (b) reduced or zero-width front yards, or (c) other accommodations to the Zoning Ordinance; 5. The ZPC has discussed and formulated a list of overall site objectives and design criteria, which reflect its current vision for QPEDs in the City's C District located along Edloe between Rice Blvd. and University Blvd, commonly known as the West University Town Center (the "QPED Design Guidelines"); 6. The QPED Design Guidelines reflect the ZPC's current vision for the development of the West University Town Center as a QPED; 7. The ZPC desires to formally memorialize these QPED Design Guidelines to assist the Building Official, the Administrative Official, the City Council, future members of the ZPC, and owners or prospective developers of the West University Town Center. 120 - 295072v2 1 037300/000002 Design Guidelines: 1. Overall Site Objectives. The Overall Site Objectives of the QPED are set forth on Attachment 1 to these QPED Design Guidelines. [to be prepared and attached] 2. Pedestrian easements. By its name, the QPED contemplates a pedestrian oriented development. To ensure this goal, the QPED plat should provide for dedications of sidewalk and pedestrian easements to the public. 3. Yards or "Setbacks." Setbacks from the front street line as small as 8' could be allowed if the following conditions are met: (a) Within the front setback, there must be a continuous pedestrian walkway area (dedicated to the public) to connect with adjacent properties. The walkway must be a minimum of 8 feet wide and walkway material must match existing material (e.g., brick pavers) in the vicinity (or City Center area). (b) Overhead building projections into the front setback would be required from the front building line to provide cover over walkway area (See Fig. 1). Only open deck area would be allowed over any overhead projection; however, the overhead projections may be able to support open-air use` such as open, patio style seating. (c) To accommodate the rear landscape buffer, a driveway, and at least one- sided head in parking, the rear-building scthack should be at least 50'. 4. Height. A building height greatter than the maximum allowed in a C District (35 feet) may be allowed, provided: (a) Maximum height does not exceed 40 feet, (b) The privacy, noise, lighting and other matters which could affect residential areas to the east of the West University Town Center are adequately addressed. 5. Parking. (a) The QPED would provide for rear access parking to be located behind the principal building, in either head-in double-row or angle double-row arrays. Parking should be designed to connect in the future with adjacent properties' rear parking and eventually with potential outlets to Rice and University Boulevards. (b) Screening. Rear parking should be screened by 8' opaque fences and 6' to 8' wide landscape strips with evergreen tall shrubs/small trees located on 6' centers. Landscaping should be located inside all screening, with the finished side of fencing 120 - 295072v2 2 037300/000002 facing residential areas located to the east of the West University Town Center (See Fig. 1). (c) To ensure that rear parking will be able to serve adjacent development and the public, the QPED plat would dedicate appropriate public easements. (d) With an 8' front setback, front parking along the QPED should be limited to parallel parking. (e) The exploration of private/public parking initiatives for the West University Town Center should be encouraged. 6. Common Walls. Zero-width side yards or common walls between adjoining building sites may be allowed with the following: (a) special exception issued by the ZBA, (b) agreement and joint application by all affected property owners, and (c) a common wall or continuously abutting separate walls (in either case with a four-hour fire rating or better). 7. Landscaping. Landscaping areas should be required in. the front for every 50 feet of building site width. Landscaping areas must be at least 50 square feet in size and include low shrubs or plants and at least one qualified tree. Landscape areas can - and are encouraged to include artwork. benches, fountains, and other pedestrian oriented amenities. Landscape areas may be located within the front part of the site or (with permission of the City Council) in 1110 adjacent street area, or partly in each area. 8. Miscellaneous Projections. Tables, chairs, benches, sculpture or fountains placed in the front setback should be allowed if they do not significantly impair pedestrian traffic flow and comply with applicable ordinances. These amenities may also be allowed to project into street areas, provided they do not block vehicular or pedestrian traffic, cause any safety concerns, and are approved in advance as may be required by City ordinances regulating the use of street areas. 9. Signs. All signs must conform to current City codes and, if located on or above publicly-dedicated areas (streets or sidewalks), they should be subject to coordinated design guidelines for the entire West University Town Center, as well as a master sign plan as required by Section 6.25 (f) of the Code of Ordinances. For example, signs should be constructed with visible elements made of the same material and use coordinated design features. 10. Lighting. Lighting standards should be restricted to 15' in height, with full "cut-off' features to prevent direct light trespass to adjoining SF Districts. The design, color, and other lighting elements should be compatible with public lighting in the West 120 - 295072v2 3 037300/000002 University Town Center. The approval of the Director of Public Works should be obtained with respect to all lighting plans. 11. Sustainability. QPED development should encourage sustainable development and building design, and environmentally friendly site and building objectives. 12. Illustration; Plans. Attached hereto as Figure 1 is an illustration approved by the ZPC illustrating the application of some of the QPED Design Guidelines. Plans for each QPED must be submitted for review and approval with the plat and Special Use Permit. The foregoing QPED Design Guidelines are illustrative and aspirational, and shall not be binding on the City, the ZPC, the Administrative Official, the City Council or the Building Official. These Guidelines may be amended or supplemented from time to time. Approved this day of 92006 ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS For the Commission 120 - 295072v2 4 037300/000002 POTENTIAL OBJECTIVES THE CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE TOWN CENTER From the June, 10-2004 ZPC Meeting Revised 1013012006 Create a pedestrian friendly environment 1. Provide uses compatible with and enhancing of the quality of life of the community. 2. Encourage the development to move to the sidewalk (set a build-to line). 3. Minimize the strip center parking arrangement of typical shopping centers, which emphasizes the image of the car and detracts from the pedestrian or sidewalk cafe quality environment. This could mean locating on-street parallel parking in front, or angled parking with intermittent tree islands. 4. Locate employee and/or overflow parking behind the retail buildings along the ditch. 5. Encourage the use of landscaping and covered or arcaded sidewalks in front of retail to further encourage pedestrian use. This could mean a common feature (covered pedestrian/landscape zone) that links all of the building sites. 6. Encourage parking in the back by providing convenient, covered passageways from the back to the pedestrian arcades in front of the retail buildings. 7. Encourage the development of a rear service and parking area along the ditch to reduce pedestrian/traffic conflicts. Provide a gathering place for the community Design the street as an urban plaza for congregating, strolling, special events, etc. The design can accommodate the closing of the street during special events and celebrations. Create a mixed-use environment Potentially retail, office, residential and community service Create aesthetics consistent with an inner city urban single-family neighborhood Create Design Guidelines for development as a condition for special exemptions and/or variances. The Guidelines should prevent a typical suburban strip-center appearance. Be Compatible with adjacent existing uses 1. Single family residential 2. Maintain existing landscape buffer and provide additional screening/buffer for residential directly across Poor Farm ditch 3. West U Elementary School 4. Park, play fields, Scout House 5. Service, government Provide appropriate parking An incentive for redevelopment could be minimizing the parking requirement through a shared parking plan with other uses, such as the school. r Provide the framework for orderly, planned and phased development The City could create the features and/or provide incentives, special exemptions, or variances for the developer to create the features that would support the kind of development desired, such as: 1. A gathering place in front of the structures through landscaping, pavement/street materials. 2. Extend its sidewalk planning to include a common landscaped, covered walkway feature to encourage pedestrian use. 3. Use of common landscaping/building features such as signage, lighting, awnings, etc. that could visually integrate the development. 4. Relaxing of building setbacks to allow building to street right-of-ways and allow common walls for neighboring developments to maximize buildable space and reinforce the uniformity and continuity of development. Encourage buildings that reduce environmental impacts and meet green building standards Generate tax revenue for the community Real Estate taxes Sales tax Recognize structures of historic significance To the extent that any of the building structures on the existing site have significance, they could be preserved, partially incorporated or replicated thematically. Plan with input from the community Suggestions could include public meetings for design input, mail-out public opinion poll, Town Center "Hotline" Website Coordinate with City of Southside Place Project Possible integration/compatibility with City of Southside Place project on southeast corner of Edloe and University