Minutes of the regular meeting of the Georgetown Township Planning Commission, held Wednesday, July 16, 2008

 

Meeting called to order by Chairman Honderd at 7:30 p.m.

 

Present:           Honderd, South, VanDenBerg, Huizinga, Pearson, Stasiak

Absent:            Blouw

 

#080716-01 - Agenda for July 16, 2008

 

Moved by South, seconded by VanDenBerg, to approve the agenda for July 16, 2008 as presented.

 

MOTION CARRIED.

 

#080716-02 - Minutes of the June 18, 2008 regular meeting 

 

Moved by Pearson, seconded by Stasiak, to approve the minutes as presented.

 

MOTION CARRIED.

 

#080716-03 – Preliminary (PUD0802) Boverhof Builders/Tom Schimmel, 5475 Settlers Pass,

Kentwood and 2887 Port Sheldon, are requesting a Planned Unit Development for a daycare facility, Office Services uses, medium/high density uses and retail establishments, under Chapter 22, on a parcels of land described as P.P. # 70-14-21-300-080, -018, -017, and -016, located at 2887, 2903, 2917 and 2935 Port Sheldon St., Georgetown Township, Ottawa County, Michigan. (application/narrative and elevations and preliminary development plan and grading plan) (the public hearing notice was published and sent to property owners/occupants within 300 feet-hold the public hearing-Township Board meeting to be held on August 25) and Final development plan (PUD0802-01) Boverhof Builders/Tom Schimmel, (final development plan)

 

Steve Witte, Nederveld and Associates Inc., represented the applicants and presented the request including the following.  The Appletree Daycare facility shown on the plan is the same as the plan that was previously approved by the Planning Commission except the playground is smaller.  A single curb cut is shown because the Township indicated that it was preferred over the two curb cuts the applicants wanted.  The applicants are willing to construct a decel lane even though the Road Commission did not require it because the Township wanted it.  A more dense green belt buffer is shown with evergreens every 15 feet rather than the 20 feet required in the ordinance.

 

The zoning administrator presented a review as follows.

 

REQUEST

 

The request is to develop a PUD with three buildings at 2935, 2917, 2903 and 2887 Port Sheldon St.  There are four parcels identified as P.P. # 70-14-21-300-016; -017; -018; and -080.  The four parcels are currently zoned MHR and are designated as Medium Density Residential on the Future Land Use Map.

 

HISTORY

 

In the past, the Planning Commission has made references to these four parcels being developed together as a PUD.  Excerpts of the Planning Commission minutes relating to these properties are provided after the review, including the minutes of April 21, 2004, October 17, 2001 and March 19, 2007.

 

SUMMARY

 

A pre-application meeting was held on May 23, 2008 and the determination was made that the PUD could proceed.  With the information that had been provided, it was not possible to determine that the qualifying conditions have been met.  Additional information was needed to detail compliance with the qualifying conditions.  The Planning Commission should make the determination if the qualifying conditions have been met.  A review of the proposal’s consistency with the qualifying conditions follows.

 

1.      The overall site is 4.10 acres;

2.      The PUD includes P.P. # 70-14-21-300-016, -017, 018, -080;

3.      The site is located at 2935, 2917, 2903 and 2887 Port Sheldon St.;

4.      For the following uses in three buildings-

a.       Building A-11,544 square foot daycare facility (a use allowed in the current zoning district) with a 12,590 square foot play area (approximately half of the 25,200 square feet required for 168 children- would meet the stated needs of the daycare facility and would be appreciated by the nearby residents), maximum building height 25 feet;

b.      Building B-12,535 square foot for any uses allowed in the MHR district and the OS district, plus retail that would only be permitted between the house of 5:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m.;

c.       Building C-9,837 square foot for any uses allowed in the MHR district and the OS district, plus retail that would only be permitted between the house of 5:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m.  Note 20 states that the existing house and outbuilding may be renovated to be architecturally similar to the daycare facility and used as a photographic studio or similar use;

5.      The daycare facility was approved as a special use permit; however, some changes are proposed as per the PUD development including a smaller playground.

6.      One access driveway is provided to the site, with one lane used to enter and two to exit (one exit lane to the west and one to the east).  This is a good example of good access management practices that are preferred by the Township.

7.      Three signs are proposed and all meet the ordinance requirements for sign in a commercial district.

8.      An eight foot sidewalk is provided behind buildings B and C.  A loading/unloading area is provided between buildings B and C, along with the dumpster with a solid fence enclosure plus landscaping.  As designed, this layout will have less of an impact on the neighbors to the north since no traffic is allowed behind the rear of the buildings.

9.      The streetscape meets the ordinance requirements and the greenbelt exceeds the ordinance requirements by providing evergreens every 15 feet rather than 20 feet.

 

The following is a summary detailing site plan elements.

 

a.       Initially the special use permit for daycare facility was approved with a parking waiver of 25% permitted in Sec. 26.9(K).  The new plan shows parking for the daycare to consist of 27 spaces, a reduction of 9 from the 36 that were approved with the waiver for the special use permit.  This is a 43.75% reduction from the requirement.  However, more parking is provided to the east as part of the PUD and these spaces are accessible to the daycare facility via the sidewalk provided along the parking lot.  The hours of the operations in Buildings B and C may not be the same as the early drop-off times for the children at the daycare and the pickup times are staggered.  The plan notes that less parking is provided than would be required for retail uses for building B.  For Building B, 63 spaces would be required for a retail use and 52 are provided, a 17.46% reduction.   For Building C, 50 spaces would be required for a retail use and 52 are provided, two more than required.  The parking calculations are based on the more intense use of retail.  The uses may be any within the MHR district and the OS district.  Less parking may be required for an office use and hours of operation of the business may vary.  It appears as though parking may be sufficient.  If the Planning Commission determines that the number of parking spaces is not sufficient, a condition of approval could be added stipulating that unless a minimum of 75% of a use’s parking is not provided, the use may not go into the tenant space in the buildings.  The Planning Commission should determine if the number of parking spaces is acceptable.

b.      A Storm Water Drain Permit (written approval from the Ottawa County Drain Commissioner’s Office) is required at the time a building permit application is submitted for each of the three buildings.

c.       The plan shows less playground area than required by the ordinance.  The ordinance requires 150 square feet for each of the 168 children, for a total requirement of 25,200 square feet and 12,590 square feet are provided, a reduction of about half.  However, at the previous meetings, the applicant indicated that this smaller amount would meet the needs of the facility and it was found that the smaller playground would be looked favorably upon by the neighborhood since the major concern of the neighbors was noise from the playground.  The playground is now located closer to the building and an open space exists between the playground and the property line to the north.  The Planning Commission should determine if this is acceptable.

d.      The facility must comply with State licensing requirements.

 

The Planning Commission should determine the following:

 

1.      Is the number of parking spaces acceptable?

2.      Is the smaller playground area acceptable?

3.      Are the Qualifying Conditions in Sec. 22.2 met?  See page 8.  The Planning Commission should determine:

a.        if the acreage is acceptable (less than 10 acres),

b.      if the uses are acceptable and consistent with the Master Plan,

c.       if the sidewalk element is sufficient,

d.      if the architectural element is acceptable,

e.       if the circulation is good,

f.       if the open space element is acceptable.

4.       Are the Standards for Approval (both preliminary and final) in Sec. 22.10 met?  See page 11.  The Planning Commission should determine:

a.        if the uses are compatible with the surrounding uses,

b.      if the PUD does not possess conditions or effects that would be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare of the community,

c.       if the PUD is consistent with the spirit of the PUD ordinance and represents an opportunity for improved or innovative development for the community that could not be achieved through conventional zoning,

5.      The review shows that the proposed PUD meets all the site plan requirements of this Chapter, respective of being either a preliminary or final PUD request.  Preliminary PUD’s must meet Section 22.5(A).  The only element missing is the proposed deed restrictions, covenants or similar legal instruments to be used within the PUD, which could be a condition of approval.  See page 12. 

6.      Final PUD’s must meet Sec. 22.8(D).  See page 18.  The only element missing is a written response to the findings, review comments and conditions, if any, from the Township Board’s review and approval of the preliminary development plan and a narrative explanation of the changes made to the plan in response to those items.  This could be added as a condition of approval.

7.      Sec. 22.9 details the Planning Commission’s review of the Final Development Plan.  See page 20.  This section appears to be met and the Planning Commission should determine if they concur.

8.      Sec. 22.10 details the Standards for Approval.  These standards of approval are already noted in the above review for Sec. 22.9.

9.      Sec. 22.11 requires that a recorded PUD agreement must be submitted and could be added as a condition of approval.  All documents shall be executed and recorded in the office of the Ottawa County Register of Deeds.

 

I D number

PUD0802

 

 

 

Date

6-18-08

 

 

Name

Appletree PUD

 

 

 

 

 

Address

2935, 2917, 2903, 2887 Port Sheldon

 

 

 

 

 

 

Use

Daycare, MHR, OS and retail

 

SUP required

no

REQUIREMENT

 

 

 

 

 

PROVIDED

 Needs or Comments

Date, north arrow, scale

 

 

 

 

X

 

Name, address of preparer

 

 

 

 

X

 

Name, address of property owner or petitioner

 

 

X

 

Location sketch

 

 

 

 

 

X

 

Legal description

 

 

 

 

 

X

 

Size in acres of the property

 

 

 

 

X

 

Property lines and required setbacks shown and dimensioned

 

X

 

Location of existing structures, drives, parking areas within 100 ft of boundary

X

 

Location and dimensions of existing and proposed structures

 

X

 

Location of existing and proposed drives (dimensions and radii), circulation

X

 

Sidewalks, non-motorized paths-select streets, accel, decel lanes

 

 

 

 

X

 

Signs, exterior lighting

 

 

 

 

 

X

 

Curbing, parking areas, dimensions of typical space, number of parking spaces

 

a.     Less parking

Calculations of parking spaces, unloading areas

 

 

X

 

Location, pavement width, ROW of all abutting roads, easements

 

X

 

Existing zoning, and zoning and use of abutting property

 

 

X

 

Location of existing vegetation-parkway association

 

 

 

 

X

 

Location, type, size of proposed landscaping, streetscape, greenbelt

X

 

Location, height, type of existing and proposed fences and walls

 

X

 

Size, location of proposed, existing utilities, connections to water/sewer

X

 

Location, size of surface water drainage facilities

 

 

X

b.    Storm Permit

Existing, proposed topo contours, max 5 ft intervals

 

 

X

 

Rec/common areas, floodplain areas

 

 

 

X

 

Special Use Standards, general and specific

 

 

 

X

c.     standards

Residential development extra requirements-attached garages

 

NA

 

Sec. 22.2       QUALIFYING CONDITIONS.. 

Any development that fails to meet the following qualifying conditions, at a minimum, shall not be considered for the PUD District:

 

A.                Acreage Requirement: The PUD site shall be not less than ten (10) acres of fully contiguous property not separated by a public road, railroad, or other such associated feature or barrier.  If the PUD is to contain a mixture of residential and non-residential uses, the minimum required area shall be twenty (20) acres.  The Planning Commission and Township Board may consider a PUD on lesser acreage if it is clear that the proposed PUD substantially provides for the intent of a PUD as stated in this Chapter.  In addition, the Planning Commission and Township Board may use the same intent section of the Zoning Ordinance when considering a PUD with property that may be separated by a public road, railroad, or other such associated feature or barrier.  It would be up to the applicant to prove why, for example, a physical barrier (road or railroad) separating the acreage would not restrict the applicant’s ability to develop a cohesive PUD.

 

The acreage is 4.10 acres which is less than the ten acres required; however, the ordinance states that the Township may consider a PUD with less acreage then 10 if it is clear that the proposed PUD substantially provides for the intention of a PUD.  Since the Planning Commission gave direction in the past that the four sites should be developed as one, it appears as though the Planning Commission MAY consider that the PUD is an appropriate tool to provide flexibility in development and to restrict accesses to Port Sheldon.  The Planning Commission will have to make this determination. 

 

B.                 Utilities:  All PUD's shall be served by public water and sanitary sewer facilities.  Storm water details must be coordinated with the county drain commission.

 

OK.

 

C.                 Land Ownership:  The PUD application must be filed by the landowner, jointly by the landowners, or by an agent.  If the application is filed by an agent(s) or other interested party, written approval from the landowner(s) must also be filed.

 

Provided.

 

D.        Master Plan: The proposed uses of the PUD must be substantially consistent with Georgetown Township’s Master Plan for the subject property. 

 

Some of the uses are permitted in the current Future Land Use Map designation (day care center, medical clinic) and other uses are consistent with the OS designation which is adjacent to the site (including office buildings, medical offices, banks-not including drive-in facilities and personal service establishments.  The plan also notes retail uses.  It may be appropriate to permit retail in buildings B and C if the hours are limited to 5:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. with no hours of operation from 11:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. to prevent night-time operations that could disturb the neighbors living in the condos.   In addition, it may be appropriate to allow all uses in the OS district in buildings B and C since the property is adjacent to an OS property to the east (bank).  This appears to be good transition uses between the residential condos to the north and west, and the OS use of the bank to the east.  No parking or traffic should be permitted to the north of the buildings and the 85 feet should be maintained to prevent disturbing the residential neighborhood to the west and north.  The areas to the north of the buildings, including no less than the 85 feet are shown as the rear yard setback and are landscaped with a greenbelt to provide a buffer for the residential use to the north. 

 

E.         Pedestrian:  The PUD must provide for integrated, safe and abundant pedestrian access and movement within the PUD and to adjacent properties.  (In addition, the township has a stand alone ordinance covering certain sidewalk requirements)

 

Sidewalks are shown adjacent to Port Sheldon and connecting the daycare facility to the sidewalk along Port Sheldon.  The Planning Commission should determine if this qualifying condition is met. 

 

F.         Architecture: The PUD should provide for coordinated and innovative visually appealing architectural styles, building forms and building relationships.

 

Provided.  Amenity-type elements have been provided including bike racks and possible outdoor seating areas.  The Planning Commission should determine if this qualifying conditions is met.

 

G.        Traffic: The PUD must provide for safe and efficient vehicular movements within, into and off of the PUD site.  In addition, the PUD should integrate traffic calming techniques, along with suitable parking lot landscape islands and other similar techniques to improve parking lot aesthetics, storm water management, traffic flow and vehicular/pedestrian safety.

 

The circulation appears to have a good flow.  Providing only one access point to Port Sheldon is shown and this is a good example of good access management since the driveway lines up with the one across Port Sheldon.  This will prevent left-turn gridlock.  In addition, this will limit conflict points along Port Sheldon. 

 

Is cross-access available to the bank property to the east?  One access from Port Sheldon has been provided (as directed by the Planning Commission).  Cross-access is provided to all the area in the PUD.  Loading and unloading is limited to the area between buildings B and C which appears to be beneficial to the neighbors to the north rather than to have vehicles access the area to the north of the buildings. 

 

H.        Open Space Requirements:

 

1.      The PUD development shall contain usable open space in an amount equal to at least twenty (20) percent of the total PUD site.  The Planning Commission may consider a PUD with a lesser amount of open space if it is clear that the proposed PUD substantially provides for the intent of a PUD as stated in this Chapter.  It is noted that open space is a very important element of a PUD and reductions to the open space provision should be granted only as a result of specific, clearly documented reasons (i.e. the PUD may located on a relatively small site in an area where a 20% open space provision would detract from building continuity, historic preservation efforts, etc.)

 

2.      Such open space to be considered usable shall not include required yards (required yards need to be individually determined for each PUD project) or buffers, parking areas, drives, rights-of-way, utility or road easements, storm water detention ponds, wetlands (unless determined to be useable by the Planning Commission due to the addition of interpretive boardwalks/walkways, etc. provided in and through the wetland) and structures (Unless the structures are part of the open space i.e. gazebos, etc.). 

 

3.      Such open space shall be permanently set aside for the sole benefit, use, and enjoyment of present and future occupants of the PUD through covenant, deed restriction, open space easement, or similar legal instrument acceptable to the Township; or, if agreed to by governmental agency, the open space may be conveyed to a governmental agency for the use of the general public.

 

The plan notes that 12.9% of open space has been provided which is less than the 20% minimum listed in the ordinance.  The Planning Commission should determine if this qualifying condition is met.  However, the ordinance states “The Planning Commission may consider a PUD with a lesser amount of open space if it is clear that the proposed PUD substantially provides for the intent of a PUD as stated in this Chapter.”  It appears as though the PUD substantially provides for the intent of a PUD as noted in the ordinance since this is the form of development the Township has suggested for this site since 1997.  The buildings and parking do not appear to be an excessive size for the parcels and a large rear yard setback has been provided which is a good buffer for the condos to the north. 

Sec. 22.3       PERMITTED USES.. 

 

Any use permitted by right or special land use in any District may be approved within a PUD.

 

Since some of the uses are permitted in the current Future Land Use Map designation (day care center, medical clinic) and other uses are consistent with the OS designation which is adjacent to the site (including office buildings, medical offices, banks and personal service establishments).  The plan also lists retail as a use for Buildings B and C with the hours of operation limited to 5:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m., which would permit a use such as a bakery but not night-time operations that may disturb the neighbors living in the condos at night time.   In addition, it may be appropriate to allow all uses in the OS district in buildings B and C since the property is adjacent to an OS property to the east (bank).  This is a transition zoning between the high density use of the residential condos to the north and west, and the OS use of the bank to the east.  

 

Sec. 22.10     STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL (both preliminary and final).

 

Any PUD shall be approved only if it complies with each of the following standards:

 

A.                The proposed PUD complies with all qualifying conditions of Section 22.2.

 

The Planning Commission should make this determination.

 

B.                 The proposed PUD is compatible with surrounding uses of land, the natural environment, and the capacities of public services and facilities affected by the development.

May be determined to be met since the uses are limited to MHR and OS uses and retail with hours of operation only from 5:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.  Plus an 85 foot rear yard setback should be maintained with a greenbelt to buffer the uses from the residential condos to the north and west.  Does the Planning Commission concur that this standard is met?

C.                 The proposed uses within the PUD will not possess conditions or effects that would be injurious to the public health, safety, or welfare of the community.

May be determined to be met if uses are limited to MHR and OS uses and retail with hours of operation only from 5:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.  Plus an 85 foot rear yard setback should be maintained with a greenbelt to buffer the uses from the residential condos to the north and west.

D.                The proposed project is consistent with the spirit and intent of the PUD District, as described in Section 22.1 and represents an opportunity for improved or innovative development for the community that could not be achieved through conventional zoning.

May be determined to be met since additional landscaping was provided in the rear yard and amenities such as outdoor open seating areas and bike racks are proposed.  Architectural elements are noted on the plan to be similar to and compatible with the daycare facility.  In addition, as evidenced by the minute of previous meeting minutes, the Planning Commission has been encouraging the development of this property as a PUD since 1997. 

E.                 The proposed PUD meets all the site plan requirements of this Chapter, respective of being either a preliminary or final PUD request (Preliminary PUD’s must meet Section 22.5, A and Final PUD’s must meet Section 22.8, D.)

PROVIDED.

 

Sec. 22.5         PUD APPLICATION

 

A.        Preliminary Plan Application Requirements

 

Following the pre-application conference, applicants seeking approval of a PUD District shall submit a complete application for review to the Zoning Administrator.  When the Zoning Administrator determines the application to be complete, the PUD application will be sent to the Planning Commission for a workshop session, followed at a later date by a Planning Commission public hearing.  Such application shall include the following (unless determined by the Zoning Administrator or Planning Commission to be unnecessary):

 

1                    A completed application form and ten (10) copies of a preliminary development plan shall be provided to the Zoning Administrator.  The preliminary plan shall contain the following site plan information:

 

a.                   The date, north arrow, and scale.  The scale shall be not less than 1”=20’ for property ten (10) acres and larger and at least 1”=200’ for those 20 acres (20) acres or more.

 

PROVIDED.

 

b.                  The name and address of the firm responsible for the preparation of the site plan.

 

PROVIDED.

 

c.                   The name and address of the property owner(s) and petitioner(s).

 

PROVIDED.

 

d.                  Legal description of the PUD site.

 

PROVIDED.

 

e.                   The size (in acres) of the PUD site.

 

PROVIDED.

 

f.                   Property lines and proposed setbacks, shown and dimensioned.

 

PROVIDED.

 

g.                  A location sketch.

 

PROVIDED.

 

h.                  The location of all existing structures, driveways, and parking areas within 100’ of the PUD site’s boundaries.

 

PROVIDED.

 

i.                    The location and dimensions of all existing structures on the PUD site.

 

PROVIDED.

 

j.                    The location of all proposed structures on the PUD site.  Realizing that this is preliminary, dimensions are not necessary until final approval.

 

PROVIDED.

 

k.                  The location and dimension of proposed lots or ownership divisions.

 

PROVIDED.

 

l.                    The location, pavement width and right-of-way width of all abutting roads, streets, alleys or easements.

 

PROVIDED.

 

m.                The existing zoning and use of all properties abutting and including the PUD site.

 

PROVIDED.

 

n.                  The location of all existing vegetation and the general location of all proposed landscape areas, berms, landscape islands and buffers, including any fence or wall areas.

 

PROVIDED.

 

o.                  The size and location of existing utilities, including a short narrative note on the site plan pertaining to the PUD’s proposed utility needs and concepts.

 

PROVIDED.

 

p.                  The proposed location and estimated size(s) of all surface and subsurface water drainage facilities.

 

PROVIDED.

 

q.                  Existing topographic contours at a maximum of five (5) foot intervals.  Conceptual topographic patterns for the PUD site shall also be provided, noting major earth moving and/or removal areas (realizing that each building receiving final PUD approval will be required to show actual topographic contours, both existing and proposed).

 

PROVIDED.

 

r.                    Location, type and size of areas to be dedicated for common open space.

 

PROVIDED.

 

s.                   Anticipated trash receptacle locations and method of screening.

 

PROVIDED.

 

t.                    Proposed streets, alleys, curb cuts, acceleration/deceleration lanes, curbed areas, service drives and parking lot locations, including traffic calming concepts, driving surface widths as required by the Ottawa County Road Commission’s standards.

 

PROVIDED.

 

u.                  Proposed pedestrian sidewalk movements both within and off the PUD site.  Sidewalks are required along all public roadways.

 

PROVIDED.

 

v.                  Proposed lighting concepts/styles and general location areas.

 

PROVIDED.

 

w.                Proposed architectural style/design concepts that will be incorporated into final approval plans, including both buildings and structures (i.e. - gateways, fence/wall concepts, art work, etc.).

 

PROVIDED.

 

x.                  Proposed setbacks, lot widths, lot areas and building/structure heights.

 

PROVIDED.

 

y.                  Proposed uses to be included in the PUD project.

 

PROVIDED.

 

z.                   Floodplain areas. (Revised 6-27-2005)

 

PROVIDED.

 

2                    Fee: Payment of a PUD fee, as established by the Township Board.

 

PROVIDED.

 

3                    Narrative Statement:  A narrative statement describing:

 

a.                   The objectives of the PUD and how it relates to the Intent of the PUD District, as described in Section 22.1.

 

PROVIDED.

 

b.                  The relationship of the PUD to the qualifying conditions listed in Section 22.2.

 

PROVIDED.

 

c.                   Phases of development and approximate time frames for each phase, including anticipated start and completion dates of construction.

 

PROVIDED.

 

d.                  Proposed deed restrictions, covenants, or similar legal instruments to be used within the PUD.

 

NOT YET PROVIDED.  Will be a condition of approval.

 

*************************************************************

Final development plan (PUD0802-01) Boverhof Builders/Tom Schimmel, (final development plan)

Sec. 22.8       FINAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN APPLICATION.

 

B.                 Final Development Plan Approval Time Period – Dual or Multi Phased: If the project includes phases, then the applicant must submit a request within twelve (12) months of the Township Board’s approval of the preliminary plan and PUD rezoning for final development plan approval of a phase.  Following the final approval of the first PUD phase, the applicant must submit each subsequent phase within twenty-four (24) months of the approval date for the previous phase.  If the applicant fails to submit the first phase within twelve (12) months or each subsequent phase within the twenty-four (24) month time period then the preliminary site plan incorporating all phases not already approved for final site plan shall be determined to be invalid.

 

The PUD will have multiple phases.

 

C.                 Approval Time Extension:  Upon request to the Township Board and in accordance with Section 22.13, A, 1 and 2, the time frames may be extended for a reasonable period of time.

 

D.                Final Development Plan Application Requirements:  A final development plan application shall consist of the following (unless determined by the Zoning Administrator or Planning Commission to be unnecessary):

 

1.                  A completed application form, supplied by the Zoning Administrator.  Provided

 

2.                  Payment of a fee, as established by the Township Board.  Paid

 

3.                  A written response to the findings, review comments, and conditions, if any, from the Township Board’s review and approval of the preliminary development plan and a narrative explanation of the changes made to the plan in response to those items.

 

After the review is completed for the preliminary plan, please check the proposed motion and note any conditions.  Then submit a response to those conditions prior to the Planning Commission meeting on July 16 or at the time a building permit application is submitted or prior to the time a final Zoning Compliance Certificate is issued for the first building constructed (since a building permit has already been issued for the daycare facility under the special use permit approval).

 

4.                  A site plan containing all of the information required in this PUD Chapter and the following information shown below: (If the plan consists of phases, then the above-mentioned information is only required for the specific phase(s) being presented for final approval.  Each subsequent phase shall be reviewed in the same manner).

 

a.                   The location and dimensions of all proposed structures and buildings on the PUD site.

 

PROVIDED.

 

b.                  The location of all proposed drives (including dimensions and radii), acceleration/deceleration lanes, sidewalks / pathways / bikepaths, curbing, parking areas (including the dimensions of a typical parking space and the total number of parking spaces to be provided), and unloading areas.  Street names must also be included.

 

PROVIDED.

 

c.                   The location of all proposed signs and lighting, including the sizes and types.

 

PROVIDED.

 

d.                  The location, type and size of all proposed landscaping and site amenities (art work, fences, gateway features, etc.).

 

PROVIDED.

 

e.                   The location, type and size of all utilities and storm water drainage facilities, including fire protection, sanitary sewers, water services, etc.

 

PROVIDED.

 

f.                   Existing and proposed topographic contours at a maximum of three (3) foot intervals.

 

PROVIDED.

 

g.                  Elevation views of all proposed structures and floor plans for all multi-family residential dwelling units.

 

PROVIDED.

 

h.                  Proposed open space areas, including recreational amenities (playgrounds, etc.).

 

PROVIDED.

 

i.                    Floodplain areas. (Revised 6-27-2005)

 

PROVIDED.

 

5.         The Planning Commission may request from the applicant any additional

graphics or written materials, prepared by a qualified person or persons, to

assist in determining the appropriateness of the site plan.  Such material

may include, but need not be limited to, aerial photography, photographs;

traffic impacts; impact on significant natural features and drainage; soil

tests; and other pertinent information.

 

Sec. 22.9       PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW OF FINAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN.

A.                The Planning Commission shall review the final development plan in relation to its conformance with the preliminary development plan and any conditions of the PUD rezoning.  If it is determined that the final plan is not in substantial conformance with the preliminarily development plan, the review process shall be conducted as a preliminary development plan review, in accordance with the procedures of Sections 22.5 - 22.7 of this Ordinance.

 

The final development plan for phase 1 appears to be in conformance with the preliminary development plan.

 

B.                 Planned Unit Developments, whether established as a single or multiphase development, shall reasonably accommodate for the intent of the PUD in each phase.  If the proposed PUD appears to provide for phases that do not incorporate the intent of the proposed PUD, the Planning Commission may require bonding or other similar financial obligation, which shall be established in the PUD agreement.  If a portion of the PUD intent it to provide for a variety of uses (i.e. - apartments and single family homes), then the proposed phasing schedule shall show how the development of these uses will be balanced in the phased development schedule.

 

The final development plan appears to accommodate the intention of the PUD.

 

C.                 If the final development plan is consistent with the approved preliminary development plan, the Planning Commission shall review the final plan in accordance with the standards for approval in Section 22.10.

 

See the review under Sec. 22.10.

 

D.                The Planning Commission shall prepare a record of its findings and shall approve, approve with conditions, or deny the final development plan.

 

Minutes will be prepared.

 

E.                  Any regulatory modification from traditional district requirements shall be approved through a finding by the Planning Commission that the deviation shall result in a higher quality of development than would be possible using conventional zoning standards.  Regulatory modifications are not subject to variance approval of the Zoning Board of Appeals.  No part of this PUD process of the approved site plans may be appealed to the Zoning Board of Appeals.  This provision shall not preclude an individual residential lot owner from seeking a variance following final approval of the PUD, provided such variance does not involve alterations to open space areas as shown on the approved PUD site plan.

 

Regulatory modifications are shown on the preliminary and final development plans.

 

F.                  A table shall be provided on the final site plan which specifically details all deviations from the established zoning area, height and setback regulations, off-street parking regulations, general provisions, or Township subdivision regulations which would otherwise be applicable to the uses and developments proposed in the absence of this PUD article and rezoning.

 

Regulatory modifications are shown on the preliminary and final development plans.

 

 

(This is the same section that was reviewed on page 10 for the preliminary development plan and now is reviewed in relation to the final development plan for phase one.)

Sec. 22.10     STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL (both preliminary and final).

 

Any PUD shall be approved only if it complies with each of the following standards:

A.                The proposed PUD complies with all qualifying conditions of Section 22.2.

The Planning Commission should make this determination.

B.                 The proposed PUD is compatible with surrounding uses of land, the natural environment, and the capacities of public services and facilities affected by the development.

May be determined to be met since the same use and basically the same plan was previously recommended for approval by the Planning Commission and approved by the Township Board as a special use permit.

C.                 The proposed uses within the PUD will not possess conditions or effects that would be injurious to the public health, safety, or welfare of the community.

May be determined to be met since the same use and basically the same plan was previously recommended for approval by the Planning Commission and approved by the Township Board as a special use permit.

D.                The proposed project is consistent with the spirit and intent of the PUD District, as described in Section 22.1 and represents an opportunity for improved or innovative development for the community that could not be achieved through conventional zoning.

May be determined to be met since the same use and basically the same plan was previously recommended for approval by the Planning Commission and approved by the Township Board as a special use permit.  In addition, additional landscaping was provided in the rear yard and, as evidenced by the minute of previous meeting minutes, the Planning Commission has been encouraging the development of this property as a PUD since 1997. 

E.                 The proposed PUD meets all the site plan requirements of this Chapter, respective of being either a preliminary or final PUD request (Preliminary PUD’s must meet Section 22.5, A and Final PUD’s must meet Section 22.8, D.)

PROVIDED.

Sec. 22.11     PUD AGREEMENT..

 

A.                Prior to the issuance of any building permits or commencement of construction on any portion of the PUD, the applicant shall enter into an agreement with the Township in recordable form, setting forth the applicant's obligations with respect to the PUD. 

B.                 The agreement shall describe all improvements to be constructed as part of the PUD and shall incorporate, by reference, the final development plan with all required revisions, other documents which comprise the PUD, and all conditions attached to the approval by the Township Board. 

C.                 A phasing plan shall also be submitted describing the intended schedule for start and completion of each phase and the improvements to be undertaken in each phase. 

D.                The agreement shall also establish the remedies of the Township in the event of default by the applicant in carrying out the PUD, and shall be binding on all successors in interest to the applicant. 

E.                 All documents shall be executed and recorded in the office of the Ottawa County Register of Deeds.

A condition of approval: the recorded PUD agreement shall be submitted at the time a building permit application is submitted to the Township or prior to the issuance of a final Zoning Compliance Certificate if a building permit has already been issued for the construction of the building in this phase.

 

 

There was discussion regarding whether the request meets the ordinance Standards for Approval in Sec. 22.10.

 

South stated that his only concern was with the noise from the daycare facility and that the applicants had addressed the concern of noise with the addition of more evergreen trees and a privacy fence.

 

VanDenBerg and Stasiak both stated that the request meets the Standards for Approval.

 

Honderd stated the following.  The uses are compatible with the surrounding area; however, the sizes of the buildings were a bit dense with the big footprints shown.  This causes problems with the number of parking spaces and creates a sea of asphalt.  There also may be a problem with snow removal and there was less open space.

 

Pearson stated the following.  The design is not innovative with the block design of the buildings and the large amount of asphalt.  There is not much that could be done since the plan already shows a reduction in the amount of parking.  There is also a concern with snow removal.

 

Honderd said that there was a large amount of greenspace in the back of the buildings, but that did not help the appearance from the street.  If parking could be put in the rear, the appearance from the street would be improved.  However, they had to deal with the residential district to the north.

 

South stated that with some office uses it was hard to determine the required number of parking spaces.

 

Steve Witte stated the following.  It was difficult to determine the uses because no tenants were lined up at this time.  In determining parking calculations, the most intense use of retail for was used for parking calculations.  The Appletree Daycare was really the only site with fewer parking spaces; however, a 25% waiver had already been approved by the Planning Commission since the facility had demonstrated that the reduced number met their needs.  The other lots were within 5 to 10% of the requirement for the most intense use of retail.  This was the best estimate; however, the use could be less intense and require fewer parking spaces such as a bank, office or medical clinic.

 

South noted that the loading and unloading area was between the buildings.  He said that there was just enough parking.

 

VanDenBerg asked if the Planning Commission would get a chance to review the final development plan and was told yes.  She said that parking in the rear would not cause inconvenience for the neighbors and that the Planning Commission was being overcautious.

 

Stasiak said that he would like to see more creativity and an option was to have parking in the rear.  He said that Port Sheldon was a busy street and the development should be more architecturally appealing.

 

Huizinga said that there could be some revisions and the Planning Commission would revisit the plan.  He said that he was okay with the plan as presented for now.

 

The chairman opened the public hearing.

 

Marv Sytsma, 6730 Wentward Ct., said that he represented the Pine Grove condo association and that parking in the rear would not be a huge problem for the residents.  He said that they were more concerned with the privacy fence rather than a chain link fence for the daycare facility.

 

Steve Witte said that the previous approval from the Township for the daycare facility included the requirement that a privacy fence was provided and it was shown on the current plan along with a greenspace buffer with evergreen trees every 15 feet.  He said that a privacy fence was not provided behind the other two buildings because a thick wooded screening already existed and the fence would have to zigzag through the trees.  He said that no pavement had been provided behind the buildings at the Township’s urging to be sensitive to the residents in the condos.

 

There was discussion regarding the remaining issues that had been left to the Planning Commission’s discretion in the review.

 

VanDenBerg asked if the number of parking spaces provided for the daycare was similar to other Appletree facilities.

 

Steve Witte said that the other Appletree Daycares had between 25 and 30 spaces which seemed to be more than sufficient.  He noted that the final development plan showed additional spaces being constructed in the adjacent site for the first phase in case an overflow is needed.

 

VanDenBerg said that she would not want to haul her child across a curb and parking lot.  She said that the employees could park in the overflow area and that other options may serve the site better such as using the rear area for parking since that would be more functional.  She asked about the change in the size of the playground.

 

Steve Witte said that other facilities had comparable sizes ranging from 8,000 to 12,000 square feet.

 

Stasiak said that he was okay with the plan since the final development plan would be reviewed by the Planning Commission and there would be another opportunity for revisions.

 

Honderd said that there was a trade-off and that the front row of parking could be eliminated for landscaping in the front replacing it with parking in the rear of the site.  He said that employees could park in the rear.

 

Huizinga said that he was okay with the elements of the plan.

 

Pearson said that there was some flexibility with the design to put parking in the rear since the hours of operation would be limited.  He said that he was okay with the smaller playground, the acreage and the architectural elevations.  He said that it would be nice to eliminate some of the asphalt.

 

South said that he was okay with the elements of the plan.

 

The chairman opened the public hearing again.

 

Steve Witte said that the 85 feet of rear yard setback had been maintained at the suggestion of the Township staff and he recommended that any approvals allow for flexibility to place parking in the rear yards since the Planning Commission was not opposed to it.

 

Dan Bovenhoff, applicant, said that they could get more creative if they had parking in the back.

 

Honderd said that he understood that the Township wanted the buffer in order to be sensitive to the residents in the condos, but now it appeared that the residents would be okay with parking in the back.

 

Marve Sytsma stated that the residents of the condos also had no problem with dumpsters being emptied between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. on the site because theirs were emptied at a similar time.

 

Honderd said that he and the Planning Commission appreciated the work that the applicants had done for this plan because this site has been in question for many years.

 

Moved by Huizinga, seconded by Pearson, to recommend to the Township Board to approve the preliminary development Plan for (PUD0802) Boverhof Builders/Tom Schimmel, 5475 Settlers Pass, Kentwood and 2887 Port Sheldon, to have a Planned Unit Development for a daycare facility, Office Services uses, medium/high density uses and retail establishments with the hours of operation limited to 5:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m., under Chapter 22, on a parcels of land described as P.P. # 70-14-21-300-080, -018, -017, and -016, located at 2887, 2903, 2917 and 2935 Port Sheldon St., Georgetown Township, Ottawa County, Michigan, as shown on the following documents:

1.      Application/narrative dated 6/12/08;

2.      Elevations dated 02-14-08;

3.      Preliminary development plan dated 06/13/08;

4.      and grading plan dated 06/13/08.

Based on the findings that:

1.      The qualifying conditions in Sec. 22.2 are met:

2.      The information as per Sec. 22.5 is provided, and

3.      The plan meets the ordinance requirements of Sec. 22.10 as follows:

a.      The qualifying conditions in Sec. 22.2 are met (as previously determined);

b.      The proposed PUD is compatible with surrounding uses of land, the natural environment, and the capacities of public services and facilities affected by the development;

c.       The proposed uses within the PUD will not possess conditions or effects that would be injurious to the public health, safety, or welfare of the community;

d.      The proposed project is consistent with the spirit and intent of the PUD District, as described in Section 22.1 and represents an opportunity for improved or innovative development for the community that could not be achieved through conventional zoning;

e.       The proposed PUD meets all the site plan requirements of Chapter 22 including Section 22.8, D.

And with the following conditions:

1.      A Storm Water Drain Permit is submitted for each phase at the time a building permit application is submitted or prior to the issuance of a final Zoning Compliance Certificate for the first building that is constructed (if a building permit has already been issued);

2.      The proposed deed restrictions, covenants, or similar legal instruments (including language relating to the maintenance of the landscaping in the open space) to be used within the PUD as per Sec. 22.5(D)(d) are submitted at the time a building permit application is submitted or prior to the issuance of a final Zoning Compliance Certificate for the first building that is constructed;

3.      All parking, drive aisles and/or queuing must take place at least 85 feet from the rear property line;

4.      The facility must comply with State licensing requirements for the daycare facility.

 

Honderd said that the size of the building footprints could be smaller and the green area increased.  He said that the site should be redesigned with less asphalt in the front.

 

MOTION CARRIED.

 

Tom Shimmel, applicant, thanked the Planning Commission for the approval because they had been looking at developing this site since 1997.

 

The Planning Commission determined that no written response was necessary, as per Sec. 22.8(D)(3).

 

The consensus of the Planning Commission was that they concurred with the review that the standards of the ordinance have been met for the final development plan.

 

Stasiak asked about the phasing plan and if the applicants were aware of the time requirements in the ordinance.  It was noted that the phasing plan was listed on the site plan as beginning now for phase one and the next phases were market driven.  It was also noted that the phases were required to comply with the time frame listed in the ordinance.

 

Pearson asked if there were any definite plans for a date for the development of buildings B and C, and was told there were no plans at this time.

 

The zoning administrator noted that the plan listed a possibility that a photographic studio would occupy the existing house on site C.

 

It was the consensus of the Planning Commission that the application met the requirements of the ordinance for a final development plan.

 

Moved by Stasiak, seconded by South, to approve the final development plan for (PUD0802) Boverhof Builders/Tom Schimmel, 5475 Settlers Pass, Kentwood and 2887 Port Sheldon, to have a Planned Unit Development for a daycare facility for phase one, under Chapter 22, on a parcels of land described as P.P. # 70-14-21-300-017, and -016, located at 2917 and 2935 Port Sheldon St., Georgetown Township, Ottawa County, Michigan, as shown on the following documents:

1.      Application/narrative dated 6/12/08;

2.      Elevations dated 02-14-08;

3.      Final development plan dated 06/13/08;

4.      and grading plan dated 06/13/08.

Based on the findings that:

1.      The qualifying conditions in Sec. 22.2 are met;

2.      The proposed PUD is compatible with surrounding uses of land, the natural environment, and the capacities of public services and facilities affected by the development;

3.      The proposed uses within the PUD will not possess conditions or effects that would be injurious to the public health, safety, or welfare of the community;

4.      The proposed project is consistent with the spirit and intent of the PUD District, as described in Section 22.1 and represents an opportunity for improved or innovative development for the community that could not be achieved through conventional zoning;

5.      The proposed PUD meets all the site plan requirements of Chapter 22 including Section 22.8, D and Section 22.10; and

6.      Any regulatory modifications from the traditional district requirements result in a higher quality of development than would be possible using conventional zoning standards.

And with the following conditions:

1.      The approval for the final development plan is contingent upon the Township Board approval of the preliminary development plan;

2.      A Storm Water Drain Permit is submitted at the time a building permit application is submitted or prior to the issuance of a final Zoning Compliance Certificate for the first building that is constructed (if a building permit has already been issued);

3.      The proposed deed restrictions, covenants, or similar legal instruments (including language relating to the maintenance of the landscaping in the open space) to be used within the PUD as per Sec. 22.5(D)(d) are submitted at the time a building permit application is submitted or prior to the issuance of a final Zoning Compliance Certificate for the first building that is constructed;

4.      All signs meet ordinance requirements other than for elements shown on the approved PUD plan;

5.      A recorded PUD agreement (according to Sec. 22.11) is submitted at the time a building permit application is submitted to the Township or prior to the issuance of a final Zoning Compliance Certificate for the first building that is constructed;

6.      The PUD agreement MUST contain language regarding the perpetuity of the open space;

7.      The facility must comply with State licensing requirements.

 

MOTION CARRIED.

 

#080716-04 - Other Business-Signs-electronic messages (sample ordinances) (for review only-no public

hearing notice was published)

 

The Planning Commission directed that language be drafted for review at the next Planning Commission meeting for a revision to the sign ordinance to provide for the standards for flashing and scrolling signs to be less restrictive.

 

#080716-05– Adjournment

 

The chairman adjourned the meeting at 8:20 p.m.