HomeMy WebLinkAbout02162012 ZBA DKT 2012-03rn ali oi � m�
ZBA
AGENDA
ITEM 4
Memo
To: Zoning Board of Adjustments
From: Debbie Scarcella, City Planner
Date: February 13, 2012
Re: Staff Report for Docket 2012 -03
Variance Reauest
The applicant in Docket 2012 -03, 5320 Sewanee, is requesting a special exception to Table 7 -5a, of Appendix
"A" of the City Code of Ordinances to allow an alternative paving material for driveway and maneuvering areas.
Background Information
The building site at 5320 Sewanee is located in a single family residential zoning district about one block south
of Bissonnett. The house was constructed on the site in 1983 and has a 2 car attached garage located at the rear
of the site with a side entry driveway. The driveway connects the garage to the street and the end of the
driveway has a short maneuvering area for backing out of the garage. Last year, the applicant removed the
portion of the driveway starting from even with the front of the house and back to the garage and replaced it with
oyster shell. The applicant did not obtain a permit.
Staff Response
Table 7 -5a requires that paving for driveways and required maneuvering spaces in single family zoning districts
be hard surfaced or pervious pavement Hard surfaced pavements are generally those such as concrete or asphalt
and pervious pavement is defined as pavers with granular fillers in the interstitial spaces. The oyster shell does
not qualify as either material. The purpose for the regulation is to ensure that a useable driveway will connect
the street to the garage and will provide a durable driving surface. The applicant has demonstrated that the
driveway configuration meets requirements for ingress and egress into and out of the garage and meets the
requirements for maneuvering area. The only issue for consideration is the use of an alternative material.
Table 7 -5a, Note 4 of the Zoning Ordinance gives the ZBA authority to grant a special exception for
the use of an alternative material if it finds that the material is of equal or better durability to the
approved types. In order to authorize the exception, the ZBA must find that the request is in harmony
with the general purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance and that the request will not cause any
significant increase in on- street parking or traffic, traffic congestion, or an unreasonable burden upon
public utilities or services. The burden is on the applicant to present evidence to the Board to support
each finding and determination required for the issuance of this special exception. If the Board grants
the special exception, the Board can attach conditions.
5320 Sewanee Page 1
-De) Ck e + I �)- - 11c, 3
§ 7 -101 WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE MUNICIPAL CODE
General Rule: Every building site, vehicular area and related struc-
ture must conform to the applicable regulations shown, by District,
in this table. ( "N /A" means the rule does not apply.) ExceptionslSpe
vial Rules. (1) tin special rules noted in table (3) See Article 9 re-
Table 7 -5a: garding Planned Development Districts. (3) See Note 7 regarding
Parking, driveways, etc. special exceptions. (4) S_ ee Article 10.
SF•1 SF -2 SF -3 TH GR -1 (7R -2 C
Item - -- Regulation
Off- street parking spaces Number, location, size, de- Depends on land use, layout, etc. See this Table, Table 7 -4a, and Ar-
and parking areas sign tide 10 (including maneuvering areas, design requirements, "same
Other regulations apply; see, site" rule, yards, street areas, loading spaces, etc.).
e.g. Article 10
Maneuvering areas
Grouping or sharing.
Use of parking areas
Emergency accessway Minimum width. Sec Note 1.
Driveways and private
streets
Other regulaturr!s apply; sce,
e.g, Article 10
Minimum width. See Note I
Maximum width (in front
yard or street area)
See Nate t.
Maximum length
Route, location
Spacing --
Pavement Require(] type
SkL Nutt 4
Markings;-wheel stops. Required type
Curb cuts
Other regulations apply;
see, e.g Article 10.
Visibility triangles
See definitions in Article 2
Number
Max. width per 50 -ft. seg-
ment of street line
Forbidden structures, plants
and other things
Sec Article 10. _
Not allowed, except in a QMDS platted parking reserve serving two
or more DU's. But sec Note 2.
Parking spaces for non -SFD uses may only be used for motor vehicle
parking. Sec Note 3.
20 ft, via public or private street, to each principal building and
each DU (or to an adjncent open area accessible to firefighters and
equipment). Other regulations also apply, e.g, fire code.
For SFD use: nine R. ~
For non -SFD residential use: 10 feet, or 17 feet if two -way and serv-
ing three or more DU's.
------ - - - -- - --
For SFD use: (i) Driveway serving any single -bay garage: 12 feet. (ii)
Driveway in a front yard serving rear garage or side - facing garage:
12 feet. (iii) Driveway in side street area of a corner site serving a
side- facing garage with three or more bays: 30 feet; (iv) Any other
driveway: 20 feet. For other residential uses. 24 ft. (or 35 feel if con-
necting to a major thoroughfare). For all other uses: 30 feet (or 35
feet if connecting to a major thoroughfare).
For non -SFD uses: 160 feet, driving distance to the nearest street
area, measured along centerline from farthest end point A longer
driveway is allowed if there is an approved turnaround or second
means of egress, or if the drive -way is platted as part of the common
area in a QMDS.
See Note 6. N/A
For non SFD uses: There must be at least 40 feet between the "in-
side" apron edges (at their narrowest points) of driveways serving
the same building site.
For SFD use: Harr] surfaced or pervious pavem* at required for each
required driveway and parking space, twin rahbmas" of pavt =ment
are permitted. For all other uses: Reinforced concrete, with curbs
and drains required for all vehicular areas. Exceptions: W See Table
7 -3 (pervious pavement) and Note 4, below. 00 See Article 10 re-
garding "overhang."
For non -SFD uses: Parking spaces must be clearly marked on the
pavement, and wheel stops are required. See Note 12.
For SFD use: Maximum one per subdivided at abutting the street.
For non -SFD uses: Maximum one per 50 -ft segment of street line
Sec-No te 5.
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. See Note I.
The following are forbidden on 'jarts of a building site within a visi-
bility triangle: structures, plants or other things taller than 2.0 ft
or shorter than 8,0 R This does not require removal of trees in ex-
istence on July 1, 1992, if kept pruned.
Supp. No 6 CDA:40
§ 7 -101 WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE MUNICIPAL CODE
Note 1. Width measurement methods. Minimum driveway width refers to unobstructed vehicular access path and,
for non -SFD use, pavement. Maximum driveway width refers to maximum width of pavement in a front yard
or street area, excluding complying curb cut aprons. Maximum curb cut width refers to the width of the
driveway plus aprons, measured at the edge of the roadway.
Note 2. Grouped or shared parking. Article 10 also provides for a special exception, in certain circumstances.
Note 3. Parking exclusivity (non -SFD uses). Required parking spaces must be kept open, readily accessible and used
for parking only, with no sales, dead storage, display, repair work, dismantling or servicing of any kind
Required guest parking spaces must be kept open and reserved for that use only.
Note 4. Pavement. The ZBA may issue a special exception to allow other materials if it finds that they will provide
equal or better durability
Note 5. Curb cuts. The ZBA may issue a special exception for additional curb cuts. Circular driveways specifically
allowed by another ordinance are not prohibited.
Note 6. Route; Alternating Driveways. Each driveway must connect garage space to the street by the most direct
route. On narrow sites where alternate side yard areas apply (see "Yards" table), the following special
restrictions also apply: (A) there must be a driveway located as nearly as practicable to one side of the site;
(B) the side is determined in accordance with the established driveway pattern for the block face in question,
if there is such a pattern; and (C) if there is no such pattern, and if there is an adjacent driveway on one
adjoining building site but not the other, the driveway must be on the side farthest from the adjoining
driveway. Exceptions: W this paragraph does not prohibit circular driveways specifically permitted under
another ordinance of the City, and (ii) a driveway may be curved or moved away from the most direct route
to the extent reasonably necessary to avoid destroying or seriously injuring a tree.
Note 7. Special Exceptions. The ZBA may issue a special exception for a parking area, garage or driveway (or other
maneuvering area) in another location or with a different design than prescribed by this ordinance, if it finds
that: (i) the other location or design will not unreasonably interfere with available light and air and will not
significantly alter access for fire- fighting and similar needs; (ii) the other location or design will prevent the
destruction of a qualified tree; (iii) in the case of the remodeling of a principal building, the location
requested is the same location as an existing parking area, garage or driveway; or (iv) the location or design
requested is necessary for safety considerations.
Note 8. Curb Cuts in PDD -TH1. W If a building site abuts both Bellaire Boulevard and another street, then all
vehicular access shall be from the other street, and no more than two curb cuts shall be allowed. However,
in the case of the development of Lots 6, 7, 8, 9 and the east ten feet of Lot 10, Block 1, Kent Place Addition,
if Lot 6 is included in the same building site or in a joint development with the other lots, vehicular access
shall be limited to one curb cut on Mercer Street. (ii) If a building site abuts only Bellaire Boulevard,
vehicular access shall be limited to two curb cuts.
Note 9. Curb Cuts in PDD -TH5. (i) If a building site abuts both Academy and Bissonnet, no curb cuts on Bissonnet
and no more than two curb cuts on Academy are permitted. (ii) If a building site abuts only Bissonnet, there
may be no more than two curb cuts.
Note 10. Driveways in PDD-TH7. Cut -de -sac driveways in PDD-TH7 may not exceed 50 feet in length, or 200 feet
if a terminus is provided with dimensions adequate for turning.
Note 11. Curb Cuts in PDD -TH2. W If a building site abuts both Kirby Drive and another street, there may be one
curb cut on Kirby Drive and on each other abutting street. (ii) If a building site abuts only Kirby Drive,
vehicular access shall be limited to two curb cuts.
Note 12. Curbs as Wheel Stops. Curbs may be used as wheel stops. Area outside a curb -wheel stop counts toward
minimum parking space dimensions if actually usable as "overhang" and not needed for maneuvering area.
(Ord. No. 1925, § 1(ex. A), 8 -9 -2010)
Supp. No. 12 CDA:42
City of West University Place
APPLICATION TO THE ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT OF THE
CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS ( "CITY ")
Address of site: 5320 Sewanee Ave., Houston, Texas 77005 -2130
Legal description of the site: TR 5B, BLK 92, WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE SEC 2
Applicant: Ralph Pokluda
Address: 5320 Sewanee Ave., Houston, Texas 77005 -2130
Contact: Reid C. Wilson Phone: (713) 547 -8.504 Fax:(713)229 -8824 Emaikrwilson3wcglaw.r_et
Decision or Action Requested (check one or more and provide requested data):
( ) Appeal, Hear and decide an appeal from an order, requirement, decision or determination made
by the Administrative Official.
• Is the official's action in writing? ( } Yes; ( )copy is attached. ( )No, but the action appealed is as follows:
• When was the action taken? Note: Appeals must be filed within a reasonable time. Please explain any
delay below:
• Exact zoning ordinance section(s) involved:
• Grounds for appeal:
( 3 Special Exception.
• Exact zoning ordinance section that authorizes the special exception:
Table 7 -5a, Notes 1, 4, and 7(i),(ii), (iii, (iv)
• Exact wording of special exception requested: Use of an oyster shell pavement surface over
a stabilizing compound base.
( ) Variance.
• Exact zoning ordinance section from which a variance is requested:
• Exact wording of variance requested:
Other Data. Are there drawings or other data? ( )No (4Yes(list items here and attach them)
1. Copy of Deed
2. Site Plan
3. Pictures of "ribbon drive"
4. Letters of Support from neighbors.
5. Addendum
Attached. The applicant has read the State and City regulations attached.
Signature of applicant y- ..�W `��- ,t Date: '2 t For Staff Use only Date filed: �' '� �� heard : - �C�,, Docket#: r C OI L)
Form ZBA -702
Addendum to Application for Special Exception
To Zoning Board of Adjustment
City of West University Place, Texas
Owner:
Property:
Special Exception Requested
Ordinance Section:
Facts:
Ralph Pokluda
5320 Sewanee
Alternative driveway surface — oyster shell over stabilizing
compound replacing concrete.
Table 7 -5a, Notes 4 &5
The Pokludas built their home at 5320 Sewanee in 1983, prior to the current zoning ordinance.
At that time, there were no requirements for driveways or garages. The site plan is shown on
Exhibit "A." The 2 -car attached garage is located in the rear and is connected to Sewanee by a
driveway on the south side, then a maneuvering space on the west side, providing access to
and from the garage. Like many garages in the City, it has been used over the years for many
purposes other than storage of vehicles. The Pokludas park their two vehicles on the improved
hard surfaces in the front of the house, one on a "parking pad" in front of the residence and one
in the driveway. This arrangement has worked well for the Pokludas for years and has not
created a problem with any neighbors.
Last year, the Pokludas removed the original concrete surface of their driveway and vehicle
maneuvering area and replaced it with a compacted bed of stabilizing compound, covered with
oyster shells as the driving surface. This hard surface provides the required driveway and
vehicle maneuvering area between the street and their garage, as mandated in the Zoning
Ordinance.
The City has not previously approved oyster shell surface on a stabilizing compound base as a
"hard- surface" and directed the Pokludas to the Board of Adjustment.
Ordinance Requirements:
Table 7 -4a
Requires 2 garage parking spaces per dwelling unit. However, the Pokludas house was
built before the effective date of the current Zoning Ordinance and there was no
requirement in effect at the time their house was constructed [CHECK]. The garage
meets both the current requirements for garage parking space and related dimensions.
Table 7 -5a
Requires a driveway of "hard- surface or pervious pavement ", which may be "twin ribbons
of pavement'.
Note 1 "Width Measurement Methods" - The minimum driveway width must be
"unobstructed vehicular access path ".
Note 4 "Pavement" - "The ZBA may issue a special exception to allow other
materials if it finds that they will provide equal or better durability."
C NUSERSIRETAIL\PICTURES\ADDENDUM TO APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION. DOCX
Note 7 "Special Exceptions" - "The ZBA may issue a special exception for a
parking area, garage or driveway (or other maneuvering area" in another location
or with a different design than prescribed by this ordinance, if it finds that:
(i) the other location or design will not unreasonably interfere with
available light and air and will not significantly alter access for fire-
fighting and similar needs;
(ii) the other location or design will prevent the destruction of a
qualified tree;
(iii) in the case of the remodeling of a principal building, the location
requested is the same location as an existing parking area,
garage or driveway; or
(iv) the location or design requested is necessary for safety
considerations."
Section 10 -102 "Minimum Dimensions; Design"
" (c) Maneuvering areas. In addition to the minimum dimensions for parking spaces,
there must be sufficient driveways and other maneuvering areas to allow ordinary,
practical use of each required parking space.....
(d) Traffic Engineering Handbook. All parking spaces, maneuvering areas, loading
areas and other vehicular facilities must comply with the applicable provisions of the
Traffic Engineering Handbook 5th Ed. (1999), including, in particular, Chapter 14. Where
multiple standards are provided, the highest standard shall apply...."
Standards for Special Exception.
Section 11.102 (b) requires:
(1) "the proposed special exception
will not cause any significant increase in on- street parking,
will not cause any substantial traffic congestion,
will not cause
any substantial increase in traffic or
an unreasonable burden
upon utility systems or
upon any other public facility or public service."
(2) "the proposed special exception will be in harmony with the general purpose and intent
of the Zoning Ordinance."
(3) "any additional findings or determinations required by this specific provision [The
alternative materials will "provide equal or better durability "]."
Argument.
The reason for minimum parking in residential areas is to provide a reasonable opportunity for
cars to be parked off - street. However, there is no requirement that residents actually park off -
street, whether in a parking garage or on their driveway. A parking garage must be connected
to a street by a hard surface and maneuvering area suitable for the owner's vehicle to access
the parking garage and the street. The Pokludas' new driveway, with compacted stabilizing
compound base and oyster shell surface with "twin ribbons" for the drive satisfies this
C: \USERS \RETAIL \PICTURES\ADDENDUM TO APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION.DOCX
2
requirement. Oyster shells have been a traditional paving surface in the Texas Gulf Coast for
years. The Pokludas specifically selected the use of oyster shells to remind them of their youth
along the Texas Gulf Coast. Although oyster shell parking surface is different, it is the
equivalent of permitted surfaces and performs adequately to allow access to and from their
parking garage. There is no reason to prevent the Pokludas from using an unusual (although
traditional) surface for their parking and maneuvering areas.
The proposed driveway and maneuvering area meets the City standards
Driveway Width and Design- Twin Ribbons (landscaping in the middle) the full width
(less a one -foot flower bed on each side) between the residence and the property line.
The driveway area performs as an unobstructed vehicle path as a vehicle can drive over
the landscaping in the middle of the permitted driveway ribbons.
Hard Surface or Pervious Pavement- The compacted stabilizing compound base with
oyster shell surface performs comparably to other permitted pavement. The test is
whether it will support a vehicle, which it will, and will not deteriorate under residential
use, which it won't. It will have equivalent durability. Oyster shell is a traditional
pavement in Gulf Coast parking areas. This surface is equivalent or better than
permitted pervious pavement. The standard is not just concrete pavement.
Maneuvering Area- This area meets the requirement to allow ordinary, practical use of
the garage. The Pokludas could park their vehicles in the garage using the proposed
area. This design will not unreasonably interfere with available light and air and will not
significantly alter access for fire - fighting and similar needs.
Special Exception Requirements-
The proposed special exception will NOT cause any:
significant increase in on- street parking,
substantial traffic congestion,
substantial increase in traffic
unreasonable burden upon utility systems /public facilities /public service."
The proposed special exception is in harmony with the general purpose and
intent of the Zoning Ordinance."
The design will not unreasonably interfere with available light and air and will not
significantly alter access for fire - fighting and similar needs.
The surface is equivalent in durability to permitted pavement.
Request:
A Special Exception be issue for 5320 Sewanee for
i. Use of Oyster Shell pavement surface over compacted stabilizing compound
base, and
ii. The maneuvering space shown on the site plat is approved.
C: \USERS \RETAIL \PICTURES\ADDENDUM TO APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION.DOCX
L
Wm. F. Vb&)am, jr. -AIA-
A RESIDENCE FOR
MR. & MRS. RALPH POKLUDA
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THE STATE OF TEXAS ) ' /rV« w•a• •+• .13 ' -077DD
I KNOW ALL ASEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
COUNTY,OF I .
ALIEF ALAMO BANK
Tnat / JR(M=4j§jXgWW j(*X*Mq¢jRi(gttrganilW and existing, under dw O
lawn of (ahe State of Texas, hereinafter called "Assipnor ", in consideration of the sum of TEN AND NO /100 IS 10.001 •^1
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DOLLARS, and other good and vshssbte considerations. to it in hand paid by I
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NOWLIN MORTGAGE' COMPANY'
hereirufter tolled.' "ASSww. the receipt of which is hereby aeltnowtedgeo, does hereby sell, transter,and assign unto
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said Assignee, its successors and assigns, without recourse on Assignor, that martain oromissofy note dated to
MAR 3 , 19 B3 in the original principal sum of $232,000.00 C
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n_- described in a armo Dead of Trust of even data therewith, executed by Ralph A. Pokl uda
�- sod wife - Caro) yn Pok I uda ,in raeor of Assignor,
of retard in Volume , Papa , Deed of Trust Records of Her rrI5 County.
Texas, covering du following described real property:
Y 1
See Metes and Bounds attached hereto and made a part hereof:
. ....r��MaASCe�sbb�b�OrWiebwf�w +file ..` __
+areiged�and retort!
togmar with slid Dead of Trust lien and all liens which Assignor has or holds to secure the oevrnent of said note and
NI its right, title and interest in and to mid land.
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD thlrsame unto said Assignee• its successors and assigns forever.
EXECUTED this cay of
ATTESTS =...
rtCretiry
STATE OF 7,E�rt7/LCC/f
COUNT' Op-? I
EF It=WW*M
vim Presider,%
i
BEFORE ME, the undersigned, a Notary Public m and for mid County and Stars, on snis day per•
sonstly appeared�J• /�• �f =a-^'� ,Vice President of /ALIEF ALAMO NK
known to me to be the person and officer who" name is subscribed to The foregoing instrument. and acirnoadedged
ALIEF ALAMO BANK
to ma that the tams was tf+e act of the said / ><'1n:1{f QdC#Iif sT?i7dtdddlt:0db, and that he executed'
'he tame as the act of sucn corporation for the ourpoms and eaesfdenedor.tlterein capremed. and in the rapacity them
in stated.
GIVEN UNDER MY NANO AND SEAL OF OFFIMthis tls y o 9 �
otary Pe end for,T ant County Texas
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$440 -Square feet 01 la-;d, irl Lot Five) '5) Blcck Mnety -Iko (92J of
I,=- mvvusm PIAI=' S=to Ammccq' ila=is Ccunty, Texas, a .rding j"I
to
the-P*at thereof, zer-Orded in Vol' ma 538, Page 147, Deed Retards,
Fz-rri-s qty, Texas, sa-d 5440 sqta-re feet of 1---4 being rote -14-
Cularly descrlb 2 as follows:
114 BEGUOaX at an LrOn rai ma, k:Lng the Nortne3st 'tamer of Lot 5, and
Scuthe4st corner'of Lot 2, in the *rest line of Se"AN, A -et
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in width-, VENUE, 60 feet
89' 12' West, 103 feet 2domy the North line of- Lot 5 and
South line Ckf Let 2 to L-1 iron rod the Northwest corner of Lot
5 and Narth.,Corr.er of L'ot 4;
--M 4a' South 04 50' East, 54-40 feet along the West line of :zt 5 and
tug fill
GL- I; the East Ii se -zf Lot 4 to an -od;
T —H!�'E' Nor th 99° 12 * Fast, iron rod -,-I the East line off
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Lot 5 and the West line of sr'v-lt� A%l-;7vjE.
rENCE, aacrth 54' :rest, 54.40 fee a-lcruj t?,,e Fast lisu of Lol, 5 aM
West line of AloNLIE t4 the PLACE OF 3WJN'prAa:,.
-----------
jAN
Af
T,-XAs
07C-31-2506
THE
HERITAGE SOCIETY AT
SAM HOUSTON PARK
January 24, 2012
Ms. Debbie Scarcella
City Planner
City of West University Place
3826 Amherst St.
Houston. TX 77005
I am writing to offer my personal support for the request by Mr. Ralph Pokluda to install a
crushed oyster shell walkway at his residence in West University Place. Mr. Pokluda is an active
member of our Advisory Board and has demonstrated his knowledge of Houston's residential
history and the needs and challenges of historic structures through his involvement in numerous
restoration projects accomplished by The Heritage Society.
He was instrumental in the move of the 1823 Old Place
following its flooding by Tropical Storm Allison in
2001. The structure was moved to higher ground in Sam
Houston Park and Mr. Pokluda designed the oyster shell
walkway leading from the main sidewalk to the
structure (photo at right). Crushed oyster shell walkways
were extremely common in Houston and along the Gulf
Coast and date back to Colonial times. The shells
provided an inexpensive, effective paving material and
were used as widely for sidewalks, garden paths, and
other pathvvays.
The Heritage Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Sam Houston Park in
downtown Houston, seeks to collect, preserve, exhibit, and celebrate the diverse history of the
Houston region. Our ten historic buildings and the collections exhibited within them help to
demonstrate the many cultural, economic, and environmental factors that influenced the
development of the City of Houston.
Sincerely,
Alice Collette
Executive Director
1100 BaLby Street ♦ Houston, Texas 77002 ♦ Phone 713.655.1912 ♦ Fax 713.655.9249
www.heritaggsociety.org
Zoning Board of Adjustment
City of West University Place
3826 Amherst
West University Place, Texas 77005
Re: Support for Special Exception request made by Ralph A. Pokluda to the Zoning
Board of Adjustment of the City of West University Place for a driveway of oyster
shell over a stabilizing base at 5320 Sewanee.
Dear Sir or Madam:
This is to inform you that I am aware of the request that Mr. Pokluda has made to
the Zoning Board of Adjustment to put in a ribbon driveway with oyster shell over a
stabilizing base. I have no objection to this request and support Mr. Pokluda's request
to the City of West University Place.
Respectfully Submitted;
By:
Date:
Zoning Board of Adjustment
City of West University Place
3826 Amherst
West University Place, Texas 77005
Re: Support for Special Exception request made by Ralph A. Pokluda to the Zoning
Board of Adjustment of the City of West University Place for a driveway of oyster
shell over a stabilizing base at 5320 Sewanee.
Dear Sir or Madam:
This is to inform you that I am aware of the request that Mr. Pokluda has made to
the Zoning Board of Adjustment to put in a ribbon driveway with oyster shell over a
stabilizing base. I have no objection to this request and support Mr. Pokluda's request
to the City of West University Place.
Respectfully Submitted,
Date:
4) `j'2�''
Zoning Board of Adjustment
City of West University Place
3826 Amherst
West University Place, Texas 77005
Re: Support for Special Exception request made by Ralph A. Pokluda to the Zoning
Board of Adjustment of the City of West University Place for a driveway of oyster
shell over a stabilizing base at 5320 Sewanee.
Dear Sir or Madam:
This is to inform you that I am aware of the request that Mr. Pokluda has made to
the Zoning Board of Adjustment to put in a ribbon driveway with oyster shell over a
stabilizing base. I have no objection to this request and support Mr. Pokluda's request
to the City of West University Place.
Respectfully Submitted,
By:
Date:
J. S7UD Lf C (C-
'5 SCc„ �t- /� tA
Zoning Board of Adjustment
City of West University Place
3826 Amherst
',Alest University Place, Texas 77005
Re, Support for Special Exception request made by Ralph A. Pokluda to the Zoning
Board of Adjustment of the City of West University Place for a driveway of oyster
shell over a stabilizing base at 5320 Sewanee.
Dear Sir or Madam:
1-his is to inform you that I am aware of the reqUest that Mr, PoklUda has made to
the Zoning Board of Adjustment to put in a ribbon driveway with oyster shell over a
stabilizing base. I have no objection to this request and support Mr. Pokluda's request
to ti"I';':1 City of West University Place.
Respectfully Submitted.
By I
Zoning Board of Adjustment
City of West University Place
3826 Amherst
West University Place, Texas 77005
Re-. Support for Special Exception request made by Ralph A. Pokluda to the Zoning
Board of Adjustment of the City of West University Place for a driveway of oyster
shell over a stabilizing base at 5320 Sewanee.
Dear Sir or Madam:
This is to inform you that I am aware of the request that Mr. Pokluda has made to
the Zoning Board of Adjustment to put in a ribbon driveway with oyster shell over a
stabilizing base. I have no objection to this request and support Mr. PoklUda's request
to the City of West University Place,
Respectfully Submitted,
0
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Thomas L Shelton
3507 Plumb
Houston, Texas 77005
713 - 665-5315
February 6, 2012
Zoning Board of Adjustment
City of West University Place
3826 Amherst
West. University Place, TX 77005
Re: Support of Special exception request made by Ralph A. Pokluda to the Zoning Board
of Adjustment of the City of West University Place for a driveway of oyster shell over a
stabilizing tease at 5320 Sewanee
Dear Sir of Madam:
This is to inform you that I am aware of the request that Mr. Pokluda has made to the
Zoning Board of Adjustment for a ribbon driveway with oyster shell over a stabilizing
base. I have also seen the actual driveway as he has modified it and believe that it is at
least as attractive and probably as functional as a more usual driveway. I have no
objection to this request and support Mr. Pokluda's request to the City of West University
Place.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas L. Shelton
3507 Plumb, West University Place, TX 77005
Sallye Clark
From: William F. Taber [taberco @gmail.com]
Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2012 1:37 PM
To: Sallye Clark
Subject: Docket No. 2012 -03 Pokluda
We live at 3520 Albans in the same block as Ralph Pokluda and in our opinion he should be
congratulated for such an environmentally friendly selection of oyster shell for a driveway
paving material. It looks good and rain water goes into the ground where it belongs instead
of wastefully running out into the the street.
Sincerely,
Gail and William Taber
713 - 224 -2600
1
Sall ye Clark ;`61 Ot 02D / 61— V 3
From: Debbie Scarcella
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 8:42 AM
To: Sallye Clark
Subject: FW: oyster driveway zoning meeting tonight , Carolyn Pokluda
Debbie Scarcella
City Planner
City of West University Place
713- 662 -5893
mailto:dscarcella @westutx.gov (please note new e -mail address!)
ATTENTION PUBLIC OFFICIALS:
A "REPLY TO ALL" OF THIS E -MAIL COULD LEAD TO VIOLATIONS OF THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT.
PLEASE REPLY ONLY TO THE SENDER.
From: katherine Butler Lmailto:k2butlerC�hotmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 8:38 AM
To: Debbie Scarcella
Subject: FW: oyster driveway zoning meeting tonight , Carolyn Pokluda
Hi Debbie,
I have been a homeowner in West University since 1980. 1 currently own one home, 6535 Vanderbilt.
I have known the Pokludas for quite some time and have been a guest in their amazing home many
times.
I want to support them in putting in the oyster driveway because every improvement that they have
made to their property in the past has been beautiful and
has increased the value of all of their neighbor's homes.
I'm sure the driveway will be the same, so please count me as a supporter from the neighborhood.
Thank you very much,
Katherine Simmons Butler
Sall ye Clark
To: Debbie Scarcella
Subject: RE: Docket No. 2012 -03, regarding property at 5320 Sewanee Avenue, West University
Place, Texas 77005, (Special Exception)
From: Pokluda, Carmen (mailto:cpokluda@AkinGump.coml
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 11:16 AM
To: Debbie Scarcella
Subject: Docket No. 2012 -03, regarding property at 5320 Sewanee Avenue, West University Place, Texas 77005,
(Special Exception)
Debbie,
Sending a note in support of granting the requested special exception — Docket No. 2012 -03.
As a community committed to recycling, I can't think of a better re -use of material!
In addition, if it catches on, it could be a solution for street flooding during heavy rains.
And, it's aesthetically refreshing.
Thanks, Carmen.
Carmen S. Pokluda
Direct: +1 713.220.8128 ! Mobile: +1 832.215.7858
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in error, please notify us immediately by e -mail, and delete the original message.
1
Sall ye Clark
Y C�
Subject: FW: Oyster shell driveways
From: robinashel0aaol.com mailto:robinashelCcliaol.coml
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 11:11 AM
To: Debbie Scarcella
Subject: Oyster shell driveways
think that the oyster shell driveway at the Pokluda residence on Sewanee should be allowed. I saw several crushed
oyster shell driveways in the historic district of Charleston, South Carolina. Also many parking lots in southern Louisiana
and Mississippi are made of crushed oyster shells. They don't puncture tires and the water drains through. This should be
an acceptable material.
Robin Ashe
6509 Sewanee
713- 661 -4758
Sall ye Clark
/ Uk l 3/1 o-3
From: Debbie Scarcella
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 3:37 PM
To: Sallye Clark
Subject: FW: Pokluda request regarding driveway
Another one.
Debbie Scarcella
City Planner
City of West University Place
713 -662 -5893
mailto:dscarcella @westutx.IZov (please note ne�ti e -mail address!)
ATTENTION MBLIC OFFICIALS:
A "REPLY TO ALL" OF THIS E -MAIL COULD LEAD TO VIOLATIONS OF THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT.
PLEASE REPLY ONLY TO THE SENDER.
From: Linda Shelton [mailto:lsheltonl@aol.com]
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 3:34 PM
To: Debbie Scarcella
Subject: Pokluda request regarding driveway
Dear Ms. Scarcella, I understand that Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Pokluda will appear before the zoning board tonight to request
permission for the addition of a partial oyster shell driveway for their home. I would like to urge that their request be
approved. As the shell portion of the driveway will be concealed behind their iron gates , thus hidden from view, and
will still provide access to their garage, I believe this will not affect anyone else in the neighborhood. I appreciate the
board's attention to this and hope this will provide a solution pleasing to the Pokludas and acceptable for the city.
Sincerely,
Linda Shelton
Mrs. Thomas L. Shelton
3507 Plumb Street
Houston, TX 77005
Sallye Clark
From: Debbie Scarcella
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 5:29 PM
To: Sallye Clark
Subject: FW: Docket No. 2012 -03, regarding property at 5320 Sewanee Avenue, West University
Place, Texas 77005, (Special Exception)
Debbie Scarcella
City Planner
City of West University Place
713 - 662 -5893
mailto:dscarcella @westutx.aov (please note nee, e -mail addre,,!)
ATTENTION PUBLIC OFFICIALS:
A "REPLY TO ALL" OF THIS E -MAIL COULD LEAD TO VIOLATIONS OF THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT.
PLEASE REPLY ONLY TO THE SENDER.
From: MarieSteinhubl [mailto:msteinhubl a,aol.com
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 5:05 PM
To: Debbie Scarcella
Subject: Docket No. 2012 -03, regarding property at 5320 Sewanee Avenue, West University Place, Texas 77005,
(Special Exception)
Hello Debbie,
am sending a note in support of granting the requested special exception — Docket No. 2012 -03.
As West University Place is a community committed to recycling, this seems like a great idea, and allows for water
absorption that concrete can't, which could help prevent street flooding if more people used the shells.
Thanks, Marie Steinhubl, West U resident.