Plan_Commission_minutes_2017-04-26_draft (2)

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Mr. Laiexplained the proposal and showed slides of the site and surrounding properties. The proposalwas for a rezoning of parcels occupied by four two-family and multi-family buildings abutting the Our Lady of Lourdes Church and Elementary School property from “MR” Medium Density Residential District to “PA” Public Activity District. The proposed rezoning would provide additional space for accessory uses of the church and elementary school to include parking, a playground, dumpster enclosure, and access drive.In tandem to this is PC 17-05, the next rezoning request. The applicant, Pastor Hanneke, provideda description and background of the proposed rezoning, including the parish’s presence in the community for over 100 years. This proposed rezoning would allow the church to provide universal accessibility to the facilities, increase the educational space, add additional gathering spaces beyond the cafeteria and gymnasium, and additional parking. Itwould also meetthespaceneeds of the future of the parish and that it would alleviate currenttrafficissues for the neighborhood. A meeting with neighborsinitiated by Our Lady of Lourdes was held about the proposal with no reported opposition. Questions / Comments and Discussion by Plan Commission: -Any issues with historic preservation given the construction dates of the buildings in the 1920s, and also if the churchcongregation size was decreasing aswith the trend of other parishes?Pastor Hanneke stated that the parish size has remained consistently between 800 and 850 parishioners and that the student body of the elementary school has remained between 230 and 270 students since 1971, although the number of baptisms has gradually increased. He further stated that many new parishioners are young families with children. -Are the buildings currently occupied? Pastor Hanneke stated that all tenants have a one-year lease and are aware of the parish’s long-term plans. A one-year notice to tenants will be provided before they must vacate. He also stated that the properties subject to a related zoning map amendment application (PC 17-05) along Northmoor Drive are currently vacant. The Commission asked staff’s opinion on the proposed rezoning. Mr. Lai stated that staff recommended approval as the proposed “PA” District is reasonable with the surrounding uses and continued to note that design issues would be addressed at a later stage in the process. The Commission inquired if the site plan provided with this application for information purposes only will be reviewed by the Commissionat a later date. Ms. Riganti statedthat the site plan will not be reviewed by Plan Commission but will be presented to City Council. Public Comment –None A motion was made by Ms.Williamsto recommend approval ofthe proposed Zoning Map Amendment.The motion was seconded by Ms. Headand carried unanimouslyby a vote of 5-0 (Ms. Gainer not yet arrived). The recommendation will be forwarded to City Council for a public hearing and consideration of final approval. Page 2 of 11