HomeMy WebLinkAbout1990 Planning Commission Minutes Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:30 p.m. , City Council Chambers
Tenth Floor, City Hall
January 9, 1990
Floyd Wright, Chairman, convened the meeting at 7:35 p.m. with six members
present:
Barnhart, Horne, Killips, LeBlanc, Monteith, Wright
Excused Absence:
Ms. Killips moved for the excused absence of Margie McNutt and Ms. Horne
supported; APPROVED
Mr. Barnhart moved approval of the absence of Alice Wieland and Ms. Killips
seconded; APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Fountain, Spackman, Ruff, Coscarelli , Stonehouse
The agenda was approved as printed.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Community Development Block Grant Draft Statement and Projected Use of Funds
for Fiscal Year 1990-1991
This public hearing provides an opportunity for citizens to comment on the
proposed statement of objectives and proposed Community Development Block
Grant activities for fiscal year 1990-1991, including the rental rehabilitation
program and the Urban Homesteading Program. A draft statement of objectives
and projected uses of funds has been published in the Lansing State Journal .
The Draft Statement has been prepared and this public hearing is being held
in accordance with the provisions of the Citizens Participation Plan for the
Community Development Program as adopted by the Lansing City Council on June
11, 1984.
PRISCILLA HOLMES, 220 Reo Avenue, member of South Central Neighborhood Organiza-
tion and Director of the Lansing Neighborhood Council . I spoke at the Needs
Hearing (November 14, 1989) in regard to our request for funding. A line
item description of our budget was submitted for clerical staff, fringe benefits
and an increase for postage and office expenses. The Neighborhood Council
has gone through a dramatic growth period and there are additional demands on
staff. We have, however, been successful in recruiting funds from other
sources. We've gone through the first grant cycle and been approved for a
Planning Board Minutes
January 9, 1990
Page 2
"paint blitz" for the upcoming year for $36,000 in addition to services we
provide on a regular basis. Thank you very much for your time.
JUDY GARDI, representing the Greater Lansing Housing Coalition. I also appeared
at the Needs Hearing and spoke to several things we see as important, which I
don't see reflected in the budget. Emergency home repairs are very costly
and many are forced to leave their homes because they can't afford those
repairs. I ask that consideration be made in the Block Grant for emergency
loans to very low income people so they can maintain their homes and stay in
them as long as possible.
Also, I spoke about the importance of a housing trust fund, which is identified
in a policy statement in the Cedar/Larch district Citizens District Council .
Money could be lent at a low interest rate and used to restabilize our
neighborhoods; an additional fund beyond the Block Grant. There are several
ways; housing trust funds, we have one at the state level and there are 35
housing trust funds across the country that are very successful . In Boston
they were able to get $5,000,000 in outside money, not revenue, into the
housing trust fund to be put into the neighborhoods. It's an innovative idea
to generate revenues. We can ask developers to give five cents per square
foot for every building into the trust fund to begin to replace housing that
building takes away.
I think it' s also very important to realize homelessness is an issue within
our city. In a given year we have 700 to 900 people who are homeless.
Homelessness stems from poverty. When you move someone out of a low cost to
a high cost housing neighborhood, pretty soon that catches up and they can't
continue to pay. We need to realistically face the homeless problem and look
at ways to transitionalize people from a near homeless or a homeless situation
into a permanent housing situation they can afford. One way is to create a
Single Room Occupancy facility (SRO) which has support services. The Greater
Lansing Housing Coalition is presently negotiating for a facility that would
house up to 30 single men, primarily, provide them support services, transi-
tionalize them, help them get substance abuse, mental health counseling, job
training, finish their GED and get their feet back on the ground and get them
into permanent housing. I ask for a minimum amount of money to be set aside
to create an SRO facility in Lansing. I think that is a critical need and
would like to see that reflected in the budget. Thank you.
SHIRLEY JOHNS, Director of Community Service and Referral Center, 422 South
Washington. Our agency runs four different programs geared toward low income
and homeless families. There is a city ordinance in Lansing that says
overnight shelters close at 8 in the morning and don't open until 6 at night.
Planning Board Minutes
January 9, 1990
Page 3
So our Agency filled the gap by opening our center from 8:30 in the morning
until 5:30 at night. We run our agency with two paid staff and the rest are
volunteers. We run an energy bank. We help with emergency energy program
for six months out of the year. We also run an energy closet; do two
clothing drives in the fall . We distribute about 6,000 coats in a year and
that is all run strictly on volunteer service. There are no administrative
costs whatever.
In our daytime shelter we serve a free lunch and provide temporary as well as
permanent housing. We help if they need public assistance with jobs. Some
need couseling, job skills, stress management. We also run information and
referral services and advocacy to help cut some red tape that low income
people are sometimes faced with.
In the past our daytime resource center has been funded by the State of
Michigan, Department of Social Services. This past year our budget was cut
so I would like to request $33,000 from CDBG, in order to either expand our
services if the State continues our funding, so we can provide more paid
staff and provide more assistance to the greater Lansing area. Or use the
money to continue operation of our services now if DSS continues to cut our
grant.
BOB WRENCHLER, Treasurer of Community Service and Referral Center. I am here
on the financial state of our organization. I invite all of you to come and
have lunch with us this Friday. We have a brief program for our guests,
which is "Martin Remembered. "
RON STONEHOUSE, Development Division Director for the City. I would like to
request that the Board postpone consideration at the Urban Development Committee
on this matter until your February meeting. By February we will know the
amount of the Block Grant allocation, or entitlement from the Federal
government. At this point we are guessing. We have projected a reduction
from current year funding levels, but it is only a guess. If we could cover
this at your February meeting, you would have more data to work with.
The other thing is some items mentioned tonight are not specifically listed
in the Draft Statement. A number; such as emergency loans to low income
people to maintain their homes, are under the item listed "Housing Rehab. "
That is a program we do now and propose to continue as a line item.
On homelessness--we are now exploring a way to find roughly $5,000, to initiate
a study of the homlessness issue in Lansing. To our knowledge, there are at
least four groups in the greater Lansing area, Lansing Housing Coalition
Planning Board Minutes
January 9, 1990
Page 4
being one, attempting to address the homeless issue. In talking with represen-
tatives of the Greater Lansing Housing Coalition, it was agreed we would try
to bring all the groups together who are trying to do the same thing, and
then get professionals to determine the exact need; transitional , permanent,
and then go after dealing with the issues. The City is concerned and we need
to define it and develop it as a plan to deal with it.
As far as the issues regarding the Community Service and Referral Center, it
is something we need to look at. The immediate advice for that agency is
that the City's General Fund also supports human resource. I would encourage
that agency to submit their budget requests , not only as part of the Block
Grant Program but as part of the General Fund program.
REFERRED TO URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Z-23-89, 1124 East Mt. Hope Avenue J to F Presented by Jim Ruff.
They have been requested to get a building permit for that gazebo, which has
forced the zoning issue to be resolved. A temporary permit was issued until
after action from the Board.
CHARLES SMITH, 1629 Harding. The pictures I have here (submitted) also
reflect what's been seen on the screen. We would like to move that to the
front of the parking area so it will be noticeable to people driving by.
We would display for Christmas. We have checked with Denny Churchill
at Yunker and he's in favor of it. It doesn't block the drive, only adds a
touch to the parking lot.
PATRICIA SMULLENS, 2115 Alpha. I want to be sure rezoning the parking lot
will not impact the rest of the property owned by Smith Floral behind the
present building. Mr. Foulds stated, the request would deal with just the
"J" Parking section in the front of the building and not impact the back at
all .
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
SLU-19-89, 2733/2735 South Washington Avenue--Guest House
JOHN SODERHOLM, Executive Vice President of Ingham Medical Center Corporation.
The facility will be approximately 10,000 square feet of storage. We have
Planning Board Minutes
January 9, 1990
Page 5
not detailed the home's specific location on the parcel until we are sure we
can get the use permit and complete the sale, in that a building parcel is
under option by us. I understand the residences are partially occupied.
They are rental units. Also we had a community meeting and an open letter
was extended to the immediate area. We had about six participants interested
who seemed to be very supportive.
We have a play area for child care directly behind the existing child care
center directly east of the facility. We try to be a good neighbor and
continually maintain our property. We still try to address parking, what we
consider a fairly critical issue. To solve that problem we purchased property
on South Washington. The health care system continues to change and we hope
to change with it. Any modifications we make would certainly be subject to
review by the Planning Department. Our intention is to have parking accommoda-
tions provided and develop the site in terms of its size to incorporate the
number of spaces required for that facility. The character of the guest
house is a stay on an average of three or four days, some up to six days.
Most of these types of houses attempt to provide shuttle service for the
guests. For ingress/egress we intend to provide a transportation loop system
from the building to the service garage and from South Washington to the
service facility.
Two letters were received by the Planning Division:
CASANDRA AND LONNIE HILL, 2801 Palmer, approve of the proposal .
DONALD AND ELIZABETH SPROSS, 2816 South Washington, much in favor of the
Ingham Medical proposal and they attended the Saturday morning meeting.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-24-89, 204 East Mt. Hope Avenue D-1 to C Presented by Vern Fountain,
along with
SLU-20-89, 204 East Mt. Hope Avenue--Adult Foster Care
Ms. Horne asked will they have enough parking area for staff and visitors?
Mr. Fountain responded, we believe they will . There's a large parking area
outside as well as the detached garage.
IMOGENE WRIGHT, 1823 Bradley, petitioner. I have an adult foster care in
Haslett for five years and invite anyone to come out and see it. I will have
only women and will maintain both operations at the same time. I live just
around the corner. My daughter will work there as well as myself. That
Planning Board Minutes
January 9, 1990
Page 6
house is big and they can roam where they want to go. We have a ten year
lease on the building. These people need a place to live. There is a ramp
on the back that provides barrier free access to the building.
LINDA WILLIAMS, 1917 Teel . I want you to know that I am impressed with the
work you do and it is appreciated. This house was a single family residential
until a couple of years ago. Since that time there have been problems and I
want to make sure we are protected from anything happening again. There was
trash buildup on the south side of the garage, adjacent to our driveway. One
day a man was sleeping on the trash that had been sitting there for six
months. A large parking lot was put in on the back end, but it was never
landscaped. We have west winds that bring all the trash to our houses. In
the summer the weeds grow almost as tall as I am. The current residents have
parked on the grass area, as well as selling cars from the front yard. I
would like to know who is responsible for the upkeep of the outside. I did
go to Imogene's place in Haslett and it is just beautiful . Also, I would
like to know if Imogene cannot keep her lease, what will be the course of
action?
Mr. Foulds responded; the outside must maintain minimum standards of City
Codes. Responsibility depends on her lease. If either party breaks the
lease, the special land use is specific to the person. So unless the Board
or someone else transfers it, it ceases, but the two family zoning would stay
in place. Imogene Wright stated, I will take care of the grounds; snow,
weeds and building repairs.
Ms. Williams continued, we are looking forward to having Imogene in the
neighborhood, are in favor of her proposal and will help her all we can.
Thank you.
JOHN LENHARD, owner. I was with you when we zoned it to the commercial use.
I am taken back by a comment. The difference was for the better than when my
Mother had it and could not afford to maintain the home to its present
condition. When the previous tenant caused problems, I immediately brought
it to the attention of the City. That is why I support Imogene, she has an
excellent use. I am going to work with her. We are not going to let the
building go down hill , I have put too much into it.
Ms. Wright questioned, am I allowed to have a sign on the property? Mr.Foulds
answered, you would be allowed an identification sign for the business which
would be a condition of the special land use for your specific use. You will
work with staff on the size and location.
Planning Board Minutes
January 9, 1990
Page 7
MILO FINDSEN, 203 East Mt. Hope Avenue, regarding SLU-20-89. Could this be
turned into anything like a halfway house? Mr. Foulds explained, the use as
proposed is residential care for elderly persons and, if approved, that would
be the specific use. Any other type of use--say developmentally disabled,
physically handicapped--they would have to come back through the process
again. Mr. Findsen, I have no objection to the elderly people.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
MPA-10-89, 3600 Block of West Jolly Road--Amend Master Plan Presented by Jim
Spackman.
This is a Master Plan Amendment to the southwest area. The request to
consider a change to the Master Plan was initiated by the City Council and
Planning Division to assure that the land uses in the area would be conforming
to what was stated in the Master Plan. The property owner has had contact
with us. It has had two public hearings but we only advertised in the
newspaper thinking of it as a routine matter.
REFERRED TO URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the minutes of November 21, 1989 as
printed and Ms. Killips supported, APPROVED
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the December 19, 1989 meeting, received
this evening, as printed. Ms . Killips seconded; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee:
Merle Barnhart, Chairman, reported that the first meeting of the year will be
Wednesday, January 17, 1990 at 2:30 p.m. in the Planning Division Conference
Room.
Planning Board Minutes
January 9, 1990
Page 8
Urban Development Committee:
Rose Killips, Chairman, stated the next meeting will be Tuesday, January 16,
1990 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Conference Room.
Executive Committee: Floyd Wright, Chairman
The Committee met this evening on the Work Program for 1990 and 1991. The
decision was to hold the report until next Board meeting.
Report from Planning Director:
Jim Foulds wished happy holidays to everyone.
New Business:
Alice Wieland has submitted her resignation, which was received by Council
last evening. Mr. Wright commented that he was pleased to have the Council
direct staff to honor Ms. Wieland at a meeting.
Board Member Comments:
Today is Rose Killips' birthday. Good wishes were stated for her.
Adjournment:
The regular January 9, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned
at 9:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
r
J s N. ulds , Director
sing Planning Division
WC
Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:30 p.m. , City Council Chambers
Tenth Floor, City Hall
January 23, 1990
The meeting was convened at 7:30 p.m. by the Chairman, Floyd Wright, with
five members present:
Barnhart, Horne, LeBlanc, McNutt, Wright
Excused Absence: Ms. Horne moved to excuse the absence of Beth Monteith and
Ms. McNutt supported; APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Fountain, Spackman, Coscarelli
Comments from the Audience:
Regarding case NCU-1-90, 228 West Hodge:
DENNIS SPEAR, 310 West Hodge. There have been people sleeping in that
building. They repair and take off down the road at early morning hours. It
is a disturbance all the time.
CASEY SHACKELFORD, 3210 Tenny Street. The "Hog Shop" sign says "specializing
in accessories and parts. " So far they haven't bothered me, but I am worried
what might happen in the spring.
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the minutes of January 9, 1990 and Ms.
LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
Committee Reports.-
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Merle Barnhart, Chairman
SLU-17-89, 725 East Saginaw Street
The Committee recommends that the Board approve the special land use permit
request for the property located at 725 East Saginaw Street, subject to two
Lansing Planning Board
January 23, 1990
Page 2
conditions:
1. Approval of a site plan by the Planning Division and Transportation
Engineer showing design, layout and access of the parking lot and landscape
screening and buffering.
2. Final disposition of public rights-of-way already vacated by the
City.
The Committee was satisfied that the proposed change is in substantial confor-
mance with the Northeast Area Master Plan and that the development for off
street parking will facilitate any future use and expansion of an existing
industrial building intended for mixed use.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
SLU-18-89, 200 Block of West St. Joseph Street
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends approval of the request for a
special land use for property located in the 200 block of West St. Joseph
Street to allow the construction of a commercial surface off street parking
lot for approximately 76 cars.
The recommendation of approval is subject to all conditions set forth in the
inspection reports by the Public Service Department, Fire Marshal , Building
Safety Division and Planning Division. A final site plan must also be
submitted to and approved by the Planning Division and Public Service Department
prior to the construction of the parking lot.
The Committee was satisfied that the proposed approval would be in keeping
with the general intent of the River Island Master Plan which designates this
area for office use and the usual accessory parking facilities and would be
consistent with the established uses within the block.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Z-23-89, 1124 East Mt. Hope Avenue J to F
The Board reviewed the recommendation of the Committee to approve the rezoning
request for a portion of the Smith Floral Company property at 1124 East Mt.
Hope Avenue from "J" Parking to "F" Commercial District to allow permanent
Lansing Planning Board
January 23, 1990
Page 3
placement of a gazebo in the existing parking area. The Committee was
satisfied that the proposed change would be in substantial conformance with
the Southeast Area Master Plan which designates the area as commercial and
would not eliminate the required off street parking for the present business.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval , but that this matter be forwarded to the
City Council without a recommendation because there are only five voting
members present and six affirmative votes are required for a zoning change.
Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
SLU-19-89, 2733/2735 and Vacant Parcels at 2717, 2721 and 2729 South Washington
Avenue
The Committee recommends approval of the request for a special land use for
properties located at 2733 and 2735 South Washington Avenue and vacant land
formerly known as 2717, 2721 and 2729 South Washington Avenue to establish a
i` patient family guest house with fifteen guest rooms to accommodate patient
family members. This recommendation is subject to all conditions set forth
in the inspection reports by the Public Service Department, Fire Marshal ,
Building Safety Division and Planning Division. A final site plan should be
submitted to and approved by the Planning Division prior to the issuance of
building permits.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Z-24-89, 204 East Mt. Hope Avenue D-1 to C
The Board reviewed the report of the Zoning and Ordinance Committee for the
request to rezone property at 204 East Mt. Hope Avenue from "D-1" Professional
Office District to "C" Residential District to facilitate development of an
adult foster care home for ten people. In order to accomplish this the
applicant must also obtain approval of a special land use permit.
Following their review the Board agreed to forward their report to the City
Council without a recommendation, as there are only five voting members present
and six affirmative votes are required to recommend a zoning change.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
January 23, 1990
Page 4
SLU-20-89, 204 East Mt. Hope Avenue
The Committee recommends approval of a special land use permit for 204 East
Mt. Hope Avenue to establish an adult foster care facility for ten elderly
persons, subject to the following conditions:
1. Installation of appropriate landscape screening and buffering along the
south lot line.
2. Compliance with all other state and local Code requirements.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
NCU-25-89, 5724 South Logan Street--Class A
The Committee recommends approval of the request for a Class A nonconforming
status for properties located at 5724 South Logan Street and 5641 Hughes Road
to allow for construction of a 90 by 74 foot addition to the existing commercial
building. Approval is subject to the following conditions:
1. That all minimum requirements of the Codes and Ordinances be met.
2. That Class A nonconforming status is approved with the understanding that
the proposed construction and final improvements to this facility will be
completed within one year.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
NCU-1-90, 228 West Hodge
The Committee recommends that the request for substitution of use for the
property at 228 West Hodge be denied. The substitution would allow use of
this property for motorcycle parts sales, repair, service and storage in the
building. The Committee believes the proposed use will exceed the intensity
of any previous use on this site and is not in keeping with the area's
residential designation in the Master Plan.
Mr. Barnhart moved for denial and Ms. LeBlanc supported; DENIED
The next Zoning and Ordinance Committee meeting will be held February 14,
1990 at 2:30 p.m. in the Division Conference Room.
Lansing Planning Board
January 23, 1990
Page 5
Urban Development Committee: Reported by Margie McNutt
MPA -10-89, 3600 Block of West Jolly Road HELD IN COMMITTEE
Act-6-89, Pinetree Road
The Committee recommends that the Pinetree Road Parcel D be sold and the
proceeds be earmarked for park development and improvement. The Lansing
Parks Department determined the property is excess for future use. The
location is in Delhi Township and would in all likelihood benefit the Township
more than Lansing residents. Existing City parks are higher priority for
improvement and development.
Ms. McNutt moved for sale of this parcel and Ms. Horne supported; APPROVED
Act-23-89, 3038 Greenbriar
The Committee considered the request by the property owner to construct a
wooden deck into an eight foot utility easement in the Smedley/Coolidge Drain
be denied as requested. It is recommended that the owner be permitted to
construct a deck into the eight foot (8' ) utility easement only, which will
require the deck be redesigned, but the request to reduce the Smedley/Coolidge
Drain be denied.
Ms. McNutt so moved and Ms. Horne seconded; DENIED AS FILED
but with use of only eight feet of utility easement; APPROVED
The next Urban Development Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February
13, 1990 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Conference Room.
Executive Committee:
The Division Budget and Work Program was submitted previously. The Work
Program activities, however, can be altered. This is for the benefit of the
Mayor's budget.
Mr: Barnhart moved for approval of the Division 1990 Budget and Work Program
and Ms. McNutt supported; APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
January 23, 1990
Page 6
Report from Planning Director: Jim Foulds
1. On the Lansing Community College parking situation, vis-a-vis, zoning
questions from time to time, their administration has purchased nine residential
properties on Lapeer and Walnut close but not attached to the campus. They
propose them to be used for surface parking lots.
L.C.C. was not exempt from the enabling legislation. They were not created
under the same act as the State. We have been working for alternative
solutions. Mr. Tubbs made a formal proposal to rehabilitate five of those
nine homes and agreed to demolish four, but did not agree to surface parking.
We want to solve their problem other ways. The City is willing to lease
property on Pere Marquette for $1. It will have a temporary gravel parking
lot for short term parking. I believe they will approach you to rezone all
the property they control for surface parking or another use. We will ask
L.C.C. for their long range plan for other than surface parking. Any other
use is contrary to the Master Plan. It will open Saginaw Street for non-
residential . We do have a critical housing problem and will address that.
2. We received a Planned Residential Development (PRD) application from Mr.
Coon for property on the north side of Forest Road, approximately eleven
acres, which shows low density residential development. We will have that on
your February agenda. The FVCA is undergoing leadership change, but are
meeting this evening.
3. We have no scheduled hearings or vital discussion issues for the first
meeting in February. It was moved and supported to cancel the regular
February 6, 1990 meeting. APPROVED
Adjournment:
The regular January 23, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned
at 9 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
':jL
s N. Foulds, Director
sing Planning Division
WC
Regular Meeting
PLANNING BOARD
30 p.m. , City Council Chambers
'90 MR 30 2TU&h Floor, City Hall
February 20, 1990
The meeting was convened by the Chairman, Floyd Wright, at 7:33 p.m. with
seven members present:
Barnhart, Horne, Killips, LeBlanc, McNutt, Monteith, Wright
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Fountain, Acheson, Coscarelli
The agenda was approved as printed.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
PRD-1-90, 2400-2600 Blocks of Forest Road Presented by Bill Acheson, Senior
P anner, who answered questions from the Board. Parking space is 45% of the
total lot coverage; buildings, parking and streets. The Parks Board recommended
a strip 200 feet along the northern border of the property for the Arboretum.
Sanitary sewer: Public Service indicated this sewer system directs sewage to
the Willard Street plant then moves via an interceptor sewer to the sewage
treatment plant. The Mt. Hope area causes their problems associated with
that area. The ability of this system to carry sewage is sufficient to cover
development, but only 12% of the available system will be left if this
development and MSU Research Park are fully developed. The 560 trips a day
traffic impact means trips per day in and out.
WAYNE MC GEE, 1105 Palmer Lane, East Lansing, designer and builder for this
project. After walking the property it's our belief that only through an
attached development can we meet the needs and concerns of everybody involved
to maintain the natural beauty of both the Arboretum, the Forest Road scenic
corridor and the unusual characteristics of the site. We want the development
as far as possible off of Forest Road. We will deal with the very ligitimate
concerns of Fenner Arboretum; runoff to the wetlands and pond area. They are
worried about quality; the pollutants, road salt, pesticides and most particu-
larly fertilizers because they have a bad affect on that pond. They are also
worried about visual pollution and impact on wildlife created by units close
by. They are concerned about vandalism. We have to establish how much
acreage serves that pond and wetland area. We can help with the water
situation, they could use more. If water running off a roof is unpolluted,
you can put it in a pipe and run it where it needs to go. The back portion
of the property can very easily be turned into a natural detention area and
if we size our pipe correctly, we can get water into that detention area and
supply on demand the rest of the Arboretum. When it comes to the pollutants
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
Page 2
of the runoff we can use grading. We will have to grade and position the
buildings appropriately so the front part of the buildings will tend to be
more traditional . People will want lawns that have to be taken care of and
what's good for a lawn may not be good for a natural area. On the sides and
backs of the buildings, we can use different types of ground cover and leave
it natural .
The fence is old and we can put in a fence. We become a buffer zone because
someone getting in has to pass someone's house. We don't want to destroy
enjoyment of the trails. It's going to be a lot easier to meet everybody's
requirements and concerns if we are allowed to group units in specific areas,
rather than bulldoze it down.
JAN CULP, 2828 Forest Road. In this area 23 years ago there were sheep
grazing, black angus cattle so putting condos on this land is changing our
environment considerably. Forest Road is the closest to living in the country
and still being in the City. The density would be one unit approximately to
every 6,000 square feet. My lot is one of the smaller and is 17,000 square
feet. If they were talking about lot sizes comparable to Forest Road, it
would maintain the neighborhood as it is. There are low cost housing apartments
in our area, duplexes, condos, triplexes, fourplexes and apartments. We have
given a lot of our neighborhood to the City. We want single family dwellings.
The Association met and agreed to support the City of Lansing buying any and
as much of the property they want adjacent to the Arboretum to become part of
the Arboretum and the rest of the land be divided into lots comparable in
size to those along Forest Road and single family dwellings be put on that
property. With the research park the neighbors were concerned about runoff.
They said business runoff isn't nearly as much as residential . Forest Road
is in the process of being named a scenic corridor, which would be the first
in Lansing. We don't want any more of our neighborhood taken away. Thank
you.
LEN STUTTMAN, 2331 Forest Road. I want to compliment the professionalism of
the Planning Department. I am concerned about the fiscal and ethical integrity
of the political system that authorizes development. In 1938 there was a
planned development of Lansing by Bartholomew. In 1969 when Alan Tubbs came
to our community to work with the citizens to develop a planned program of
development in this area the citizens came out en masse to do that. In at
least three other plans this area has been designated as a single family
unit. You see the kind of neighborhood we have and 80 units in 20 buildings
is not our neighborhood. We have worked to develop that neighborhood according
to your plans.
r
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
Page 3
A drain feeds into the lake at the Arboretum. The tiles still exist. There
is a pond there every spring. If you develop there, you will have the same
problem as before. There is basement flooding every year. If you want to
develop, you have to think about recharge as well as maintaining a pond in
Arboretum.
DR. DENNIS STEPANOVICH, 1640 Sunnyside. We were down here with another
organization and people from Forest organization regarding the research devel-
opment project. It seems that our comments fall on deaf ears regarding the
sewer problems. We keep being told the sewer problems will be solved. I
understand Public Service says with this * and the Research Park we will be
using up an additional 80 percent of this usage. We hear about flow and
pumping stations, but it is not working. It should be fixed prior to more
development. Thank you.
JERRY RIGGS, 3312 South Deerfield, Scout Master of Troop 137 of the Boy
Scouts of America in Lansing. I have brought several people with me that are
an example of a troop of 32 young men who learn good citizenship and character
training in the out-of-doors. To us Arboretum is not just a breeding ground
for wildlife, but for citizens who learn respect for the outdoors. We have
all of our meetings outside until days get shorter.
A multiple unit condo, no matter how much care is taken, is too close to
endangered wilderness. Any scout who has earned his Soil and Conservation
badge knows dangers the proposed development could present to the wildlife.
Citizens feel "The Arb" belongs to the people of Lansing and the true natives
that can teach citizenship through nature's laws. The harm or destruction of
its ecosystem by exploitative use of the surrounding property would destroy a
place we all love and is the only place many city people have ever had
contact with the beauty of nature and wildlife.
JERRY MONROE, 2108 Artisan. Since I was little my grandpa has told me
stories about Arboretum and I loved it. When I was in Webelos we had a
requirement to visit a boy scout troop and we visited Troop 137. We had
lessons and fun and since then I have loved Arboretum. Thank you.
IRENE STUTTMAN, 2331 Forest Road. I reinforce what everyone has said that
leads to your denial of this development. I realize it meets the density
requirement of the plan we participated in many years ago, but we were unable
to foresee the manipulation of space and units to get those kinds of densities.
We always had in mind single family dwellings with lot sizes similar to what
are there.
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
Page 4
KEVIN MC GRAW, 2408 Artisan, Attorney at Foster, Swift and on the Forest View
Neighborhood Association. I don't think anyone that develops this land can
come up with a solution, that's irrelevant. This is an inconsistent use,
it's nonconforming. The majority of the surrounding land use is single
family development. To allow 560 trips a day, 320 parking spaces is going to
impede the integrity of this area. We should leave this the way it is and
let the Parks and Recreation people have it. Thank you for your time.
DOLORES MAIDLOW, 2806 Forest Road. This will impact our neighborhood. The
plat was made out several years ago for this land. Also, the condominiums
would be on the most quiet part and will seriously impact the Arboretum.
Thank you.
DEBBIE FREDERICK, 3728 Stoneleigh. In Detroit we watched a city in decline
because of the loss of attractive parks and it became a very hostile atmosphere
for private citizens. We were attracted to the area as a bit of country in
the city. We are worried about the neighborhood because the city is beginning
to look more like a haphazard city as far as the way you zone neighborhoods.
There is a lot of mixture of business and private homes which I find unattrac-
tive and not good planning. Development plans don't end up as nice as they
sound. Thank you.
CHRIS WOOD, 721 Louisa Street. I want to contribute that I have always been
taught that consistency is the key to success and I don't see how building
condominiums in the middle of a nature center is consistent. Thank you.
ANN ANTEAU, 3709 Stoneleigh. The Parks Department, Capital Area Autobon
Society, Forest View Citizen Association and the Friends of Fenner Arboretum
have all written you letters protesting this development, which is going
within fifteen feet of the lot line. I understand beautiful landscaping is
promised and one of the tackiest berms I 've ever seen runs along Aurelius
Road and Provincial House. Thank you.
TANDA GORDON, 2513 Forest Road. We are one of the older homes spoken of and
have seen a lot of development. I strongly oppose this project. I would
like to keep our unique area as single family homes.
TERRY KENYON, 546 Kendon Drive. Recently I took boy scouts on a trip down
Forest Road and there are no sidewalks so we were forced to walk along the
edge of the road. With the increased traffic I would be concerned about
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
Page 5
where people are going to walk without a hazard. That pond has been an issue
many times and with the runoff I am concerned because we read often that
chemicals will be found miles away from where they were used. This would be
only a few feet, what is going _to happen to the delicate balance? Thank you.
JENNIFER KING, 546 Kendon Drive. I spoke to classmates at Lansing Catholic
Central about this matter and found that many students were appalled by the
proposal . I was given a number of letters, but forgot them. I agree with
what's been said. This should not be allowed because it destroys what a lot
of people enjoy.
DEAN FISHER, 2519 Forest Road. I am opposed to this project and like to
point out that the City of Lansing never again will be able to expand a park
like the Arboretum. Can restrictions be made so we have pine trees or
something at a minimum of ten feet so that in five years we don't see the
condos. Thank you.
JUDITH FILICE, 1462 Cambridge Road and property owner at 2704/2706 Geert
Court in the Forest View area. I serve as a member at large on the Parks and
Recreation Board, who unanimously supported the motion to express their concern
regarding this development and recommended a 200 foot buffer from the south
boundary of the Arboretum because of the topography of the site and it was
felt that 200 feet would bring it to the top of the ravine. Thank you.
ROBERT TAPER, 4245 West Jolly. The scouters of Troop 137 have signed a
petition (submitted with 18 signatures) against the plan.
Telephone communications in opposition were received from:
MINETH MODI , 2836 Forest Road--traffic problems will be increased; a
center turn lane is needed on Forest and a traffic light at Forest/Aurelius.
GARY SEMER, 127 South Hayford, Chairman Conservation Commission--Problems
would be caused in Fenner Arboretum with drainage, noise and wildlife. This
is precious and rare and an educational and hiking facility.
DEBBIE WOLF, 3671 Sandhill Road, user of Arboretum--opposed to this
proposal .
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
Page 6
Letters were received from:
DOLORES MAIDLOW, President Forest View Citizens' Association--object to
the proposed Planned Residential Development.
ALICE BLACKWOOD-WYMAN, 2715 Manley Drive--opposed to building 80 condo-
minium units in this area; support single family homes.
JOHN/CAROL LAWRENCE, 3525 Stoneleigh--opposed to building condos on Forest
Road.
BILL CANTLON, Vice President, Friends of Fenner Arboretum--concerned about
(1) any development of land to the south boundary will impact the Arboretum.
(2) undeveloped it acts as an extension of the natural habitat of the park.
(3) seasonal runoff helps feed a key feature of the Arboretum, the swamp
forest and woodland pond. (4) the southeastern sector of the park is important
as an undeveloped corridor supporting birds and mammals.
STEVEN AND ELLEN TRECHA, 2631 Forest Road--concerns include (1) the planned
development area contains a number of low lying areas. (2) the proposed
building arrangement crowds buildings on higher ground. (3) Fenner opposes
due to the loss of wetlands and the proposed site drains into Arboretum
holding ponds. (4) city sewer and water system will be unable to handle
additional burden. (5) the city in general does not need additional multiple
housing units. (6) Forest Road is being recognized as a scenic corridor.
JOHN HART, President, Capital Area Audubon Society--people enjoy the
tranquility and solitude offered by trails through fields and forests of the
park. The impact on natural habitats pollution of the adjoining section of
the park.
ANITA DE LASHMUTT, 1411 Corbett--opposed, building condominiums will
interfere with freedom of wildlife.
CLIFFORD AND HAZEL RAYMOND, 2726 Manley Drive--opposed to the addition of
more multi-family housing.
RICK BRIGHAM, 1115 Prospect--opposed due to the detrimental affect on the
Carl G. Fenner Arboretum.
MARK TERPSTRA, 1115 Prospect--this would be a major disruption in one of
Lansing's few remaining natural areas.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
- Page 7
Z-1-90, 910 South Holmes Street F to B--Presentation was made by Vern
Fountain, Zoning Administrator.
JIM TROPF, 2035 Park Lane, Holt, Petitioner. I bought this property in 1980
and a lot of changes have happened in mortgage lending practices which will
eliminate financing on this if it stays a commercial property, which will not
upgrade the property to its highest and best use.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
There were no further comments from the audience.
A brief recess was taken by the Board.
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
It was moved and supported for approval of the minutes of January 23, 1990;
APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Merle Barnhart, Chairman
NCU-2-90, 210 West Madison
The Committee recommends approval of the request for Class A status for
property located at 210 West Madison Street subject to the condition that the
driveway be expanded by moving the existing fence to allow more room for off
street parking. Driveway improvement must be completed within one year of
the date of the Board's action. Failure to do so will result in the termination
of Class A status on the property.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Mrs. Horne supported; APPROVED
NCU-3-90, 207 West Madison Street
The Committee recommends approval for substitution at 207 West Madison in
order to establish a new restaurant for the previous one subject to:
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
Page 8
1. The off street and on street parking as it relates to the new use will be
evaluated at the end of twelve (12) months use to determine if any remedial
action is necessary.
2. If remedial action is necessary, two alternatives are foreseen;
(a) additional parking could be secured on a separate lot.
(b) the intensity of the business might be reduced; for instance, eliminate
the sit down portion of the restaurant.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Mrs. LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
Z-1-90, 910 South Holmes Street F to B
The Committee recommends that the request to rezone property at 910 South
Holmes Street from "F" Commercial to "B" Residential District be approved.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Mrs. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
The next meeting of the Zoning and Ordinance Committee will be held on
March 14 at 2:30 p.m. in the Planning Division Conference Room.
Urban Development Committee: Chairman, Rose Killips
Community Development Block Grant Projected Use of Funds for 1990/1991
The Committee recommends the 1991 program recommendations be approved. Further,
that staff submit the Community Service and Referral Center request to the
Mayor for consideration of other funding sources.
Ms. Killips moved for approval and Ms. McNutt seconded; APPROVED
MPA-10-89, 3600 Block of West Jolly Road Master Plan Amendment
The Committee recommends the amendment to the Southwest Area Comprehensive
Plan designating the property in the 3600 Block of West Jolly Road as office
use be adopted.
So moved by Ms. Killips, seconded by Ms. McNutt; APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
Page 9
Act-30-89, North Logan Street at Grand River Access
The Committee recommends that the Public Service Department establish the
boundaries of the excess right-of-way parcels which could be sold to adjacent
property owners. It is further recommended that the land at the base of the
slope of Logan Street which is paved and used by the bowling alley be surveyed
and the land be leased at fair market price to the owner for parking purposes.
Easement rights for utilities are to 'be retained in all excess rights-of-way.
Ms. Killips so moved and Ms. Horne supported; APPROVED
Act-1-90, Collins Road at Forest
The Urban Development Committee recommends the City file a "disclaimer of
interest" in the subject portions of Collins and Forest Roads. All utility
easements should be retained along these sections of land as requested.
Ms. Killips so moved and Ms. McNutt seconded; APPROVED
Act-2-90, Estes Furniture, 101 East Grand River Avenue NO ACTION
Act-3-90, Olds Plaza--Sign for Old Kent Bank
The Committee recommends that the request to locate a sign pylon in the
public right-of-way along Michigan Avenue be denied. This sign would be in
conflict with the new Sign Ordinance being proposed to preserve views to the
Capitol Building and applied to the Central Area.
So moved by Ms. Killips, supported by Ms. McNutt; DENIED
The next meeting of the Urban Development Committee will be held March 13
at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Conference Room.
The Executive Committee had no report.
Report from Planning Director: James Foulds
1) The question was raised how staff represents planning issues to the City
Council . Once the Board acts officially that action is put in` a letter with
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
Page 10
a graphic attached and forwarded to the Mayor to indicate whether he agrees
or disagrees. That information is put on the Council agenda and referred to
the appropriate committee. Typically we deal with the Physical Development
Committee who review the report from the Mayor and typically set a public
hearing. I represent the Mayor's office and the Board to them. After the
public hearing and input received the item is put on the agenda for action.
I want to make sure the Council understands all of the information they have
received for their decision.
2) I am required annually to submit an evaluation from the Board. A
questionnaire will be forwarded to you on how you perceive staff functions.
From that information I will complete a report for your review to submit to
the Mayor.
3) We have talked in the past about a field trip. I think it's important
that as a group you need to see some issues in the community first hand. I
suggest that we get a van and take a couple of hours to see some important
aspects of the City.
4) In terms of the downtown parking program, I would like to show the Board
what we are doing now. We are in the process of sending out proposals for
two new ramp sites downtown and you will be asked for input as they come in.
There are six points in the City's development plan; (1) we are, in
anticipation of the opening of the Grand Tower office building, developing a
parking shuttle system in conjunction with the State of Michigan. CATA will
operate it and we will shuttle from the existing BOC lots that we will rent
for three years. That temporary shuttle parking program will provide 720
spaces to meet our needs.
Secondly, the City will implement operational changes to the existing parking
system; mainly provide more short term parking downtown on the first floor of
the ramps for persons coming down for short meetings.
Thirdly, we are appraising the Paul Automotive property. We will purchase
that through the parking program, clear and use it by 1991 for 470 permanent
spaces to serve the Lansing Center, people in the Grand View building and
others in the area. In addition by 1992 the City will begin acquisition from
the Grand Tower building south to Kalamazoo east of Grand Avenue to the River
to clear for interim parking and then prepare the site for private development.
Also in two locations we will be constructing new parking ramps; the first
being south of Capitol , west of Shiawassee for approximately 1,000 spaces and
south of Kalamazoo, west of Grand Avenue for again approximately 1,000 spaces.
Lansing Planning Board
February 20, 1990
Page 11
The Council has directed administration to ask the private sector for joint
use proposals in those facilities. Land downtown is too valuable, we need to
maximize uses on those parcels. In ;addition the City will be acquiring
property from Michigan Avenue down to Kalamazoo Street to develop a permanent,
at least a five year period, location for the park and shuttle system so
people will not have to park in the prime area downtown.
Board Member Comments:
The question was raised on filling the vacancy on the Board. At this time,
the Mayor has not made a decision. He presently has health problems, but he
is aware of our shortage.
Adjournment:
The regular February 20, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned
at 10:10 p.m.
jRspectfully ,�&bmitted,
s N. F Ids, Director
ing Planning Division
WC
.. ti
Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:30 p.m. , City Council Chambers
Tenth Floor, City Hall
March 20, 1990
The Chairman, Floyd Wright, convened the meeting at 7:36 p.m. with seven
members present:
Barnhart, Horne, Killips, LeBlanc, McNutt, Monteith, Wright
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Fountain, Love
Approval of Agenda:
The agenda was approved with a possible addition to the Zoning and Ordinance
Committee after public comments are made.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
' LS-3-90, 224 Rouse Street Presented by Eleanor Love
m DOUGAL KENNEDY, petitioner. The only problem is the lot depth, which by
adding the small parcel in back would lack six feet of the required depth.
The square footage is there because it is wider. We plan to put a small
ranch on that piece of property. I have talked to some neighbors and they
have no complaint.
A message was received from DORIS COHOON, 2411 Hathaway Court, Norton Shores;
I am in favor, it should be an asset to the neighborhood.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
LS-4-90, Northeast Corner of Stafford Avenue and Jolly Road Presented by
Vern Fountain
Mr. Wright questioned; would the garage in the rear of the residence be
removed? Mr. Fountain answered; either removed or relocated. Mr. Wright
asked if the driveway is on the west side of the house currently? Mr.
Fountain responded; I believe that's correct.
Lansing Planning Board
March 20, 1990
Page 2
DAVE MC CARDEL, 2801 Bryon Circle. I plan to build five portable houses
priced in the mid 50's with basements on that site. To the best of my
knowledge nothing has ever been built on it, so nothing ever torn down. The
shed will be removed and the driveway is on the east side of the house.
Mrs. Horne asked if the row of trees would be saved? Mr. McCardel responded;
yes, as many as I can. But unfortunately the setback is 40 feet and the
trees are in the middle of that. If it's possible I will save them, but
about 90% will have to be cut down.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDIANNCE COMMITTEE
Comments from the Audience:
A communication was received from Robert Clegg, Public Service Department,
regarding Z-3-90, 610 East Sheridan Road. The development of property as a
duplex must continue to store water on site and not change the grade to
direct runoff onto adjacent properties. The longer term and more permanent
solution to the existing drainage problem should have the property owner
petition to have storm sewer, curb and gutter. installed along Sheridan Road.
A short recess was taken, during which the Zoning and Ordinance Committee
members met.
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
It was moved by Ms. Killips and supported by Ms. McNutt to approve the
minutes of March 6, 1990; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordiannce Committee: Merle Barnhart, Chairman
We would like to add items e and f to our agenda as LS-3-90 and LS-4-90.
Lansing Planning Board
March 20, 1990
Page 3
NCU-24-89, 312 North Butler Street
The Committee recommends approval of the request for Class "A" status for the
property at 312 North Butler Boulevard to allow improvements to the building
as a three unit structure.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Z-3-90, 610 East Sheridan Road A to C
The Committee recommends that the request to rezone property at 610 East
Sheridan Road from "A" Residential to "C" Residential District be approved
subject to two conditions:
1) When redevelopment of the site occurs, the property owner will be required
to submit a grading plan to be approved by the City Engineer that will
identify on site detention and show how the property is going to be developed
without creating any type of storm water problems for adjacent properties.
2) The City Engineer be requested to direct a letter to both residential and
non-residential property owners indicating their options for resolving the
storm water problem in this vicinity.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. Monteith seconded; APPROVED
LS-1-90, 500 Filley Street
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends that the request to divide the
property at 500 Filley Street into three parcels which will create two more
building sites measuring 70 by 98 feet for single family homes.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms. Monteith supported; APPROVED
LUR-2-90, 3134 South Cedar Street
The Committee recommends approval of the land use request for a neon sign
business in the "F" Commercial District at 3134 South Cedar Street.
It was so moved by Barnhart, seconded by LeBlanc; APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
March 20, 1990
Page 4
LS-3-90, 224 Rouse Street
The Committee recommends the request for a lot split on property at 224 Rouse
Street be approved. The proposal is to split off the south 80 feet, creating
a lot 80 feet wide by 92 feet deep, eight feet below the minimum depth
requirement, to allow development of another single family home.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms. LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
LS-4-90, Northeast Corner Stafford Avenue and Jolly Road
The Committee recommends that the request for a lot split on the northeast
corner of Stafford Avenue and Jolly Road to create six lots on site be
approved.
Mr. Barnhart so moved, seconded by Ms. Horne; APPROVED
The next meeting of the Zoning and Ordinance Committee will be held on
April 11, 1990 at 2:30 p.m. in the Planning Division Conference Room.
Urban Development Committee: Rose Killips, Chairman
Act-6-90, 2206 Marilyn Plaza--Right-of-way Use
The Committee recommends that the 10 foot by 137.09 foot City right-of-way
just east of 2206 Marilyn Plaza be deeded to the owners of 2206 Marilyn Plaza
and placed on the tax rolls. This recommendation includes the stipulation
that an easement be provided so Board of Water and Light can service the
existing light pole.
Ms. Killips so moved and supported by Ms. McNutt; APPROVED
The next meeting of the Urban Development Committee is scheduled for
Tuesday, April 10, 1990 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Conference Room.
Report from the Planning Director Jim Foulds
The 1989 Planning Board Evaluation is in draft form and I will provide you
copies next week for your review.
Lansing Planning Board
March 20, 1990
Page 5
Board Member Comments:
1) Merle Barnhart reported that the Yes, Michigan Ethnic Center Committee
met and Debbie Stabenow gave a legislative update that there are two options
on the Civic Center; (1) for the State to buy it outright. (2) with the
Pension Fund it would go on the tax rolls. On the negative side, the Pension
Fund will only be interested in the investment aspect -whether it's used the
way the City wants. There has been discussion on tearing it down and building
new. The State sees the needs as; (a) a hall of justice facility, (b) new
legislative office space; they have parking problems the same as the City. A
Yes, Michigan Center would probably be last on their needs list. I have been
asked if the City has expansion plans for the new Lansing Center and how they
would use $7.5 million if they accept that offer. The Committee is also
interested in the political feeling of the Mayor and Council and how this
issue might be resolved.
Mr. Foulds reported a study is being completed regarding the City's convention
business and the impact on the Lansing Center. There are draft conceptual
plans as to how the Lansing Center would look if it were expanded. The
intent is to take funds from the sale of the Civic Center block and use it to
add to the Lansing Center to make Lansing a more competitive market for
convention business.
Mr. Barnhart asked if the City is supposed to help relocate, for instance the
Senior Center. They are very concerned about what is going to happen to
them. Mr. Foulds responded; the Mayor's office has committed that each
organization, either leasing space in the facility or in the case of the
Senior Center that own the building, will be provided space in the community.
Administration is reviewing the Pension Fund proposal and will issue a report
to the Mayor. Administration would like to sell the building and our first
choice is the State of Michigan. While the State would be lessee of the
building, pension fund would be more closely associated with the private
sector. One major difficulty in negotiations is , could or would the pension
fund sell the new building back to the State and thereby take it off the tax
rolls. Our position is there should be a built in period of time when (a)
that could not happen, or (b) if it does, there's a payment in lieu of taxes
for a five or ten year period.
2) Beth Monteith congratulated Rose Killips for completion of her LCC class.
Ms. Killips added; I highly recommend the program to enhance skills for
serving on Boards and Commissions, community activity.
Lansing Planning Board
March 20, 1990
Page 6
3) The Chairman reported the present owners of the old Jury-Rowe store,
which has been vacant for years, plan to raze the building and put in a new
structure. During that time Michigan Avenue on that side will be blocked so
entrance/exit of the basement will have to be from the Ottawa side.
Adjournment:The regular March 20, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned at
8:25.
Respectfully submitt ,
JarNFoulds , Director
Laning Division
r: WC
Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:30 p.m. , City Council Chambers
Tenth Floor, City Hall
April 3, 1990
Floyd Wright, Chairman, convened the meeting at 7:32 p.m. with five members
present:
Barnhart, Horne, LeBlanc, McNutt, Wright
Excused:
Mr. Barnhart moved for the excused absence of Rose Killips and Ms. McNutt
seconded; APPROVED
Ms. LeBlanc moved to excuse Beth Monteith and Ms. McNutt supported; APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Ruff, Spackman, Love
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Z-4-90, 4208-4220 South Cedar Street A and F to F -- Presented by
Eleanor Love
HOWARD CORBIN, PMCS Architecture, 705 West Lake Lansing Road, East Lansing,
representing the petitioner. Mr. Gannon came to us to remodel his building
and possibly an addition. We looked at the site plan, amount of space for
parking and building remodeling and found that the two small parcels to the
south, which contain the oldest portions of the building, were not zoned
properly. They are zoned residential and the rest is commercial . The
building is actually in three pieces; the first part was built at least 50
years ago. The part to the north was built about 30 years ago and then the
new portion added on, possibly 15 years ago. He is in need of more furniture
warehouse space. The thought was to fill in the back portion of the building
and possibly a little to the north. It depends on how much he can add and
still maintain parking spaces.
A communication was received from TOM BURCHMAN, Wolverine Development, owner
of property to the north, in support of the rezoning and proposed improvements
to the building.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Lansing Planning Board
April 3, 1990
Page 2
Z-5-90, 324 North Pine Street DM-3 to D-2 -- Presented by Jim Ruff
MICHAEL FOLEY, Director of Children's Charter. We have an option to buy. We
would get a rehab loan and do rehabilitation to the property. We would
re-side and take down the garage, pave the necessary area for parking and do
some rehabilitation inside. We would make the first floor handicap accessible.
Children's Charter is a statewide advocacy organization on children's issues
and we primarily support professional service workers who work with children
throughout the state and develop and deliver training for the persons that
Work with these organizations. We monitor legislation and do legislation
advocacy around issues that relate to children. We don't have a lot of
clients coming and going; primarily a three person staff.
A communication was received from DAVID S. HAYNES, 600 West Shiawassee, PAA
Legislative Consultants, in support of the requested rezoning.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-6-90, Friendship Circle DM-2 to D-1 -- Presented by Ms. Love
LES LINSEMIER, petitioner for F&S Development Company. About two years ago
this site was zoned professional office and Mr. Ferguson did not have a use
for it at the time. He researched placing it into multi-family, which it is
zoned for. Now we are requesting it go back to the professional office use.
The facility planned is a three story office building. We have prepared a
site plan, only to test the site for use by the television station. It will
be equipped just as Channel 47. There will not be a tower, they will utilize
a fiber optic cable network that allows a dish to be placed on the top of
Friendship Manor. Presently Channel 47 uses the dish on the top of Capitol
Commons.
The Public Service report I have is from 1987, but the problem has not gone
away. It is in the flood plain and we envision the floor level will be above
the flood plain level . We have applied for special permit to occupy in the
flood plain. We will apply with Department of Natural Resources after we
have a topo and survey done of the site. We are aware of the sewer problem
and will have to work something out.
FREDERICK BECKER, owner/operator of the Silver Dollar Saloon. We are
supportive, we like to see business in the area. The ground has lain fallow
for quite some time. Thank you.
Lansing Planning Board
April 3, 1990
Page 3
Communications were received from:
ROLAND J. KASE, 1226 Oak Ridge, East Lansing. No objection to area rezoning,
but object to building more than two floors. Disapprove if there would be an
increase in traffic and vehicles; also if there would be satellite dishes on
top or around the building in full view.
JAMES J. CHIODINI, 432 Highland, East Lansing, opposes. Continued development
of this part of the City has an adverse impact on nearby residential
neighborhoods. Increased vehicle traffic detracts from the quiet and safety.
ROBERT OWEN, Director Planning and Economic Development. East Lansing has no
objection, D-1 offers a good intermediate land use between low density and
single family neighborhood to the east. However, concerns include; (1)
sufficient buffering and screening to Highland Avenue. Plant materials of
sufficient size would be preferred over a plain opaque wood fence. (2) If a
tower will be on the building or site, how will the impacts be mitigated?
(3) Grading and drainage plan ensures no increased surface water or other
drainage problems to adjacent properties.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-7-90, 329 West Saginaw Street C to D-1
Z-8-90, 215 219 West Lapeer Street DM-3 to D-1
SLU-2-90, 320 22 28 West Lapeer and 608 12 16 620 North Walnut Street
Jim Ruff summarized the location of each of the petitions in relation to the
Lansing Community College campus and the proposed land use boundaries of the
amended River Island Amendment Plan. Mr. Ruff summarized the purpose of the
three L.C.C. petitions and master planning recommendations of the River Island
Comprehensive Plan of 1979, River Island Amendment Plan, 1986 and the amendments
completed in 1988. Then each petition was presented.
BRUCE NEWMAN, representing the petitioner, Lansing Community College. I am
Vice President for Business and Finance, 521 North Washington. My comments
refer to all three cases. The College has identified three issues which need
to be resolved in cooperation with the City of Lansing. (1) The critical
space problem, including classroom space, office space and parking space.
(2) The disposition and use of eleven properties west of the campus. (3)
The future of the downtown campus. The eleven dilapidated structures have
been broken into and a fire set in one. They have many building code
Lansing Planning Board
April 3, 1990
Page 4
violations and have been poorly maintained. Our Board of Trustees determined
the structures must be removed.
The College space problem ranges from inadequate parking to crowded classrooms
and offices.
It was agreed by City and LCC leaders that urban decay could be ameliorated
and possibly reversed if LCC would remain downtown, establish a symbiotic
relationship with City government, grow and be a positive force and presence
downtown. Ten task forces will discuss and recommend an outline of action
for the next five years. A Community Advisory Committee to assist in planning
will meet April 30 and begin to formulate suggestions for long range use of
the eleven properties west of the campus.
At this time the College requests approval of zoning and special land use to
develop approximately 72 parking spaces and utilize the facility at the south-
east corner of Walnut and Saginaw Streets for offices. If approval is
granted, the College's development of parking and maintenance of properties
will be consistent with the high aesthetic standards set and maintained as it
has developed and managed its properties in the past. Thank you.
CHARLES BAUER, reside and own 721 Seymour Avenue. The future and liability
of my neighborhood depends on the vitality of Lansing Community College. My
only. connection to the College is paying property taxes. There are a lot of
drug houses in the area and I am one of the few pedestrians after dark. The
College has an affect on the safety and attractiveness of the community and
is a positive force. People live in other places and own residential properties
in our neighborhood and then absolve all personal responsibility for the
behavior of the tenants. I feel very strongly about this and look for
positive change. I would hate to see the campus expand elsewhere or give up
on what they are doing. L.C.C. does a good job with their parking lots. I
would welcome a parking lot on either side of my home on Seymour Avenue as an
improvement to the neighborhood. Thank you.
DAVID OSBORN, 705 North Walnut. It is sad when we remove residential properties
and supplant parking lots as a way of resolving urban problems. We are proud
to have Lansing Community College and in some respects they have been very
good neighbors. But I am personally unwilling to give them carte blanche to
expand into the residential neighborhood. In the future we will have a
proposal for a low-rise office building, which I don't consider consistent
with the Master Plan. The Downtown Neighborhood Association has appeared in
concern of how you stop spot zoning. Intense development begets more intense
development. To grant this special use permit would effectively allow the
Lansing Planning Board
April 3, 1990
Page 5
campus to intrude into the area. The problem is we don't have a long term
plan. My final concern is there is a chronic parking problem downtown. I
can't believe 50 parking spaces are going to be more than a drop in the
bucket. The students are the only group of parkers coming and going in
numbers at every hour of the day. Lansing Community College is the only one
that can offer hope with satellite parking. Thank you very much.
ELEANOR HARRELSON, 328 North Walnut. I object to removal of houses in my
neighborhood for parking lots. I can certainly appreciate the parking need
because there is no available parking on the streets Monday through Thursday
for guests. In most cases houses could be repaired and used again. SLU-2-90
would wipe out almost an entire block. I love the neighborhood. It is
appalling to me that Lansing would consider tearing down perfectly good houses
and destroy neighborhood quality for 72 parking places. That is not going to
solve their office or classrooms space problems, but it is going to destroy a
neighborhood. I don't want to see our diverse neighborhood changed. Thank
you.
ROBERT MORRIS, 311 Seymour Street. I am a neighbor, a builder and restoration
designer and I know something about old buildings and those of central Lansing.
Those structures on Walnut and Lapeer are uniquely valuable as heritage
structures. These properties could be a valuable economic asset to the City.
L.C.C. is not a good neighbor in the respect of not giving clear plans. They
should market all these piecemeal properties. They are ruining the
neighborhood, decreasing the tax base and suggesting their long range plan is
a sea of asphalt stretching as far west as need be. I think L.C.C. needs to
solve its problems by establishing a long range plan, not threatening us with
a disinvestment of downtown campus. The present offer makes a permanent
change none of us can live with. Thank you.
JAMES ATKINSON, reside in Okemos on Woodleaf Court and owner/manager of six
properties adjacent to L.C.C. land on Walnut and Lapeer. I concur with Mr.
Bauer on what the College is trying to do. We have to realize if we are
going to maintain the vitality of this institution, we are going to have to
cooperate with them. The properties before L.C.C. bought them were on the
market for two or three years and could not be sold. If this is such
valuable property that can be rehabbed, why didn't people run to buy them?
The people who owned them were glad to sell and they did not get rich on them
either. The one on the corner of Saginaw and Walnut that they plan for
offices is in decent shape, the rest are not. So I think we should cooperate
with the College. Thank you.
Lansing Planning Board
April 3, 1990
Page 6
ROBIN BURKE, 615 North Walnut. All the houses in question on Walnut Street
weren't boarded up, but they should have been. They were drug houses and we
didn't feel safe. A parking lot across the street would be a welcome change.
The brick wall is better than finding dirty syringes. I support the College
100 percent on this. Thanks.
DAVID SHADE, 2405 North Grand River and own 601 Seymour Street. If you go
three houses to the east or west, I am right in the middle so this does have
a direct impact on me. I am not against the growth of L.C.C. , but against
the piecemeal approach they're taking. I would rather see Lansing Community
College approach this in a manner that would dramatically reduce or just
solve the problem. The properties in between will have nothing done until
L.C.C. makes a decision and they will go downhill .
DEBORAH MULCAHEY, 703 West Genesee. I own property at 608 Seymour, located
between L.C.C. and the area they propose to demolish. I also am not opposed
< ` to L.C.C. 's growth, however, I don't see any problem with them providing
satellite facilities. I strongly oppose for the following reasons; It is not
consistent with the 1986 adopted River Island Plan. This decreases our tax
base. The area has inadequate sewer. The concept in what they're doing
breaks up the neighborhood. The safety problem is one the whole City has,
but the houses aren't the problem. It's owners not maintaining them, or
tenants--the house didn't cause the problem. I work and live downtown and
feel a great deal of comfort in those houses being there when I 'm walking. I
don't have the same sense of safety walking down Ottawa to Logan because
there are parking lots there. Look at the office at Saginaw/Walnut from a
traffic and safety standpoint. I can't get in and out of my own driveway the
traffic is so extensive and Walnut Street as well .
The rezoning request for the properties in the 200 block of West Lapeer are
interesting. Those properties are adjacent to parking. They are going for
office zoning when in fact they said it would be a parking lot. If they went
for "J" Parking, they could put up more parking spaces than if they go for
office. So what are they really doing there?
The concept of the River Island Plan was to have face blocks compatible. My
other major objection is they haven't done any long term planning. Providing
72 parking spaces; what's wrong with shuttle service, utilizing the City's
proposal , for $1 a year on Pere Marquette area?
The other L.C.C. proposal to remove these properties and build a new home if
they can't be relocated is totally unacceptable. We are losing possibly 10
or 11 properties in downtown Lansing. There are monies available from the
Lansing Planning Board
April 3, 1990
Page 7
State of Michigan Builders' Alliance program. L.C.C. has a wonderful apprentice
program. Why don't they work together to enhance these properties? I
sincerely request you deny it so the Code Enforcement people can work to
bring these up to Code and make them habitable for individuals. Thank you.
SHARON KELLOGG, President, Downtown Neighborhood Association. I am a realtor
and a property owner in the area of the subject properties. The DNA met in
March and took a position to oppose the rezonings. However, I would like to
strongly suggest that this whole issue be tabled until more information is
available. We need a plan from L.C.C. to tell us how much land they need.
We would rather be dealing with the total picture, not small elements of it.
Thank you.
RON SILKEY, owner of 615 North Walnut. I am totally in favor of what the
College intends to do in the neighborhood. Thank you.
< ' Communication were received from:
DAN WELBURN, owner of 700 North Walnut; SHAWN AND MARY KREIDER, residents.
In support of the proposal to improve housing and parking. Repair and
removal of properties will be a positive improvement to our neighborhood.
WILMA HANDS, 323 West Madison; opposed to the proposal . L.C.C. should construct
a shuttle lot away from the residential area for students, which now pack the
street making driveway access difficult.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
LS-5-90, 817 West Northrup Street -- Presented by Mr. Ruff
KERRY BLACKIE, petitioner, representing Lenora Pawley, property owner. We
only need one foot to allow this. There are two reasons for splitting this
lot; (1) to share in the property taxes and (2) she is not in a position to
maintain this property. I talked to Mr. Rose at the township and we presently
have two stubs for sewage at the parcel so there will be no interference with
the street itself to tie in for new sewage. I contacted two builders and we
will , if the split is approved, have a spec home designed and put on this
parcel . Current residents are concerned about market values on the property.
Most of the properties are from $40,000 to $65,000 in value. Just east of
this property there is a little subdivision called Lancen Village. These
Lansing Planning Board
April 3, 1990
Page 8
parcels are selling for $65,000 to $75,000. The same development on West
Northrup can only increase in market values. This parcel was just purchased
by Ms. Pawley for $39,700. A new parcel will not draw in any persons that
cannot afford to build a property there. It looks like it's best suited to a
three bedroom ranch or bi-level . Most of the homes are -ranches. If there is
a garage, it would be attached at the back of the home. A new home can only
help increase anybody's neighborhood. Secondly, it will create more revenues
for the City. Thank you for your time.
WAYNE BERGIN, 831 West Northrup. I have a petition (submitted with 13
signatures) from 8 of the 11 properties you contacted. All object strongly
to having this lot split. Lots in the area are all larger, 65 feet wide and
232 feet deep. We feel the lot doesn't fit the residential zoning for an "A"
lot. We object to that lot being a spec home. I don't object to the lot
being sold, but I would hope it would not be developed. This was an estate
sale and was on the market for some time and I believe that' s why it was sold
for that price. Thank you. -
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the March 20, 1990 minutes with one
correction and Ms. McNutt seconded; APPROVED
Page 5 should be corrected to report two offers had been made and the Pension
Fund was first, not the State.
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee:
The Chairman, Merle Barnhart, reported the next meeting will be held Wednesday,
April 11 , 1990 at 2:30 p.m. in the Planning Division Conference Room.
Urban Development Committee:
Margie McNutt reported for the Chairman that the next meeting is scheduled
for Tuesday, April 10, 1990 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Conference Room.
Lansing Planning Board
April 3, 1990
Page 9
Report from the Planning Director: Jim Foulds
1) 1989 Board Evaluation. Please discuss and revise as you feel necessary
and it will be forwarded to the City Council .
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the report and submission to City Council .
Ms. Horne supported; - APPROVED
2) On the Lansing Community College public hearing, there are two issues
that are paramount; the first is action on the request. At the next Committee
meeting staff is going to suggest these items be tabled until Lansing Community
College submits to this Board a strategic, site development or master land
use plan for the downtown campus, which we believe is necessary to make an
informed decision.
The second item is the removal of the structures as they exist today. Within
the right of Lansing Community College to file for a demolition permit we
have 48 hours to respond. Once they're down it's a different issue of what
to do with vacant land. I think our position would be to request direction
from the Mayor's office.
New Business:
1) Mr. Wright received a news release from the Lansing Public Library for a
seminar on May 12 regarding historic buildings and requested the Secretary
provide all Board members this information.
2) There has at this time been no appointment made for a Planning Board
member.
Adjournment:
The regular April 3, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board stood adjourned
at 10:10 p.m.
Res ectfully submitte ,
Ja N. Foulds, DiPectogr
La ing Planning Division
WC
Regular Meeting
Lansing Planning Board
7:30 p.m. , City Council Chambers
Tenth Floor, City Hall co
April 17, 1990 0
rn
0
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t
The Chairman, Floyd Wright, called the meeting to order at 7:30 pm. it&; U'
seven members present: 17. <-
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Barnhart, Horne, Killips, LeBlanc, McNutt, Monteith, Wright
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Staff in Attendance: Spackman, Fountain
Approval of the Agenda: It was moved by Barnhart, supported by LeBlanc to
add cases Z-8-90 and NCU-8-90 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee.
APPROVED
Audience Comments:
MIKE FOLEY indicated his desire to have the Board table his request, Z-5-90,
324 North Pine Street, for further study and report.
Six letters were received in support of NCU-8-90, North Walnut and West
Ottawa Streets from:
THOMAS J. MEDAGLIA, III, Government Affairs Representative, 322 West Ottawa
Street--I am confident they will restore and renovate the properties in a
reasonable manner making them an attractive addition to the City.
DAVID N. STEPHENS, 2617 Edgebrook Drive--I wish to express my support for
granting the variance.
JAMES E. RAYL, General Manager, Great Lakes Media Group, 2929 Covington--I
urge you to approve this request and allow restoration of these buildings.
ANDREW J. SUCH, Michigan Chemical Council , 320 West Ottawa Street--we support
the efforts to renovate and restore these historic properties.
CHRIS CAMPBELL, 417 North Jenison--I support the request.
PAUL SHAHEEN, Executive Director, Michigan Council for Maternal and Child
Health, 318 West Ottawa--David J. Anderson and Cathy A. Stull have demonstrated
a commitment to downtown Lansing and we are confident the properties will be
renovated and restored in an attractive manner.
Lansing Planning Board
April 17, 1990
Page 2
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Barnhart moved to approve the minutes of April 3, 1990 and Ms. LeBlanc
seconded; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Merle Barnhart, Chairman
The reasons given for decisions of the Board are contained in the minutes of
the Zoning and Ordinance Committee meeting of April 11, 1990.
1-4-90, 4200-4220 South Cedar Street A/F to F
The Committee recommends that the request to rezone property at 4200 through
4220 South Cedar Street from "A" Residential and "F" Commercial Districts to
"F" Commercial District for the purpose of bringing the zoning into conformance
with the present use of the property be approved subject to two conditions:
1. That upon approval of this request landscape screening and buffering will
be required to meet the minimum requirements of the Code.
2. That the off street parking be reviewed and redesigned as necessary to
meet the minimum requirements of the Code.
It was so moved by Barnhart, supported by Monteith; APPROVED
Z-5-90, 324 North Pine Street OM-3 to D-2
The Committee recommends that the request to rezone property at 324 North
Pine Street from "DM-3" Residential to "D-2" Residential/Office District be
approved for the purpose of converting the first floor into private offices
and use the second floor for residential .
Barnhart moved to table this request for further study and Horne seconded;
TABLED
Lansing Planning Board
April 17, 1990
Page 3
Z-6-90, 100-200 Blocks of Friendship Circle DM-2 to D-1
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends that the request to rezone
property on the east side of the 100-200 blocks of Friendship Circle from
"DM-2" Residential to "D-1" Professional Office District to construct a building
to house business offices for a new television station be approved.
It is understood that in addition to special land use approval from the
Lansing City Council , approval from the Department of Natural Resources will
be necessary to allow development to occur on the site. Further, that any
type of transmission structure, which include but are not limited to a tower
or a dish, shall be constructed to meet the minimum requirements of the Codes
and Ordinances.
It was so moved by Barnhart, seconded by Monteith; APPROVED
LS-2-902 805/807/809/811 Chicago Avenue
The Committee recommends approval of a lot split request for properties located
at 805/807 and 809/811 Chicago Avenue for the purpose of constructing a two
or -three unit apartment building on the vacant lot that would be created.
The Committee believes this proposed lot division will create overdevelopment
and at least two nonconforming lot size situations not in keeping with the
general intent of Codes and Ordinances.
Barnhart moved for denial and Horne supported; DENIED
LS-5-90, 817 West Northrup Street
The Committee recommends that the request to divide the lot at 817 West
Northrup Street into two parcels for the purpose of allowing development of
an additional single family home be approved. The two lots created will
maintain more than the required lot area and fall within the density recommenda-
tions of the Southwest Area Comprehensive Plan. Any new construction on the
vacant lot may be subject to approval of the Board of Zoning Appeals because
of the established residential setbacks of the adjacent homes.
Barnhart so moved and LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
April 17, 1990
Page 4
SLU-3-90, 100-200 Block of Friendship Circle (east side)
The Committee recommends that the request for a special land use to allow
development of an office building to be located within the 100 year flood
plain of the Red Cedar River be approved subject to the following:
1. Submission and approval of an appropriate site plan including but not
limited to;
A. Landscape screening and buffering.
B. Adequate provision for storm water detention.
C. Adequate soil erosion and sedimentation plan.
D. Adequate parking and trash removal system.
2. Provision of sanitary sewer connection.
3. Building elevation at or above the 100 year flood plain.
4. Compliance with the responses of all responding agencies.
It is understood that any type of transmission structures which include but
are not limited to a tower or a dish shall be constructed to meet the minimum
requirements of the Codes and Ordinances.
Barnhart so moved and Monteith supported; APPROVED
Z-8-90, 215/219 West Lapeer Street OM-3 to D-1
The Committee recommends that the request to rezone property at 215/219 West
Lapeer Street from "DM-3" Residential to "D-1" Professional Office District
for the purpose of allowing redevelopment for off street parking to be used
by Lansing Community College be approved.
It was so moved by Barnhart, Monteith seconded;
Motion to table this matter for further study was made by Killips, supported
by McNutt; TABLED
Lansing Planning Board
April 17, 1990
Page 5
NCU-8-90, 208 North Walnut and 326-328 West Ottawa Streets
The Committee recommends acceptance of the staff recommendation that the
request for Class A status for properties at 208 North Walnut and 326/328
West Ottawa be approved to allow restoration of two historic buildings in a
manner in keeping with historic preservation.
So moved by Barnhart, seconded by LeBlanc; APPROVED
The next meeting of the Committee will be held on Wednesday, May 9, 1990
at 2:30 p.m. in the Planning Division Conference Room
Urban Development Committee: Chairman, Rose Killips
Rationalization for Board decisions on the following motions are detailed in
the Urban Development Committee meeting minutes of April 10, 1990.
Act-4-90, ..Skye View Subdivision--Easement Adjustment
The Committee recommends that the request for a release of easement for
clearing the title to a recently built single family residence on Lot 18 of
Skye View Subdivision be approved.
It was so moved by-Killips and supported by McNutt; APPROVED
Act-10-90, 1000 Block West Michigan Avenue--Close or Vacate
The Committee recommends the street be closed immediately as a through street
from the east property line of 1020 West Michigan Avenue and further that the
State be permitted to use the right-of-way as a temporary parking lot. It is
further recommended that the City Council indicate its intent to vacate the
entire right-of-way between Martin L. King, Jr. Boulevard/Logan Street and
Butler Boulevard upon acquisition of the 1020 West Michigan Avenue property.
The State is encouraged to apply aesthetics to the parking lot boundaries and
the devices used to close Michigan Avenue. Finally it is recommended that
the following conditions be made regarding Michigan Avenue:
1. That the State should acquire the property at 1020 West Michigan prior to
vacation action.
2. A site plan be prepared and submitted to the City of Lansing showing
drives. There should be no driveway access to Martin L. King, Jr. Boulevard/
Logan Street or access through the west end of West Michigan Avenue.
Lansing Planning Board
April 17, 1990
Page 6
3. Easements be retained for storm and sanitary sewers located in the
right-of-way.
Motion for approval was made by Killips, seconded by Horne; APPROVED
Act-11-90, South Pennsylvania Avenue--Retain or Remove Median
The Urban Development_ Committee recommends that the median on South Pennsylvania
Avenue, Potter Park south to Mt. Hope Avenue and further to Lincoln be
returned as part of the reconstruction and improvement project and further
that a landscaping plan be prepared for the median to upgrade its appearance
and buffering function. It is also recommended that the Neighborhood Council
be contacted to work with the neighborhood residents to conduct a self-help
project of flower planting and low cost landscaping in the median until a
city plan is developed.
This motion was made by Killips and supported by McNutt; APPROVED
Act-12-90, Pine, Kalamazoo and Sycamore Streets--Use of ROW
The Committee recommends that the State Department of Management and Budget
request to place footings up to two feet into the right-of-way at a depth of
12 to 20 feet underground and temporary sheet piling for a retaining wall
five feet within the right-of-way be approved. Also it is recommended that
the 300 block of Sycamore Street be closed to public use during construction.
It was so moved by Killips, seconded by Horne; APPROVED
The next meeting of the Urban Development Committee will be May 8, 1990
at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Conference Room.
Report from Planning Director:
Jim Spackman, Deputy Director encouraged attendance at the Lansing Public
Library day-long seminar on May 12. Emory Kemp, speaker and local experts
will discuss older buildings/homes in Lansing and the techniques and advantages
of restoring original style over remodeling. The Library and other agencies
Lansing Planning Board
April 17, 1990
Page 7
will present guides to researching the history of a house or property. In
the attempt to preserve Lansing's cultural heritage entering the 21st Century
several parades are planned involving floats, bands and march units. The
first is Michigan history through the 1800's.
Adjournment:
The regular April 17, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned at
8:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James R. Spackman, Deputy Director
for
James N. Foulds, Director
Lansing Planning Division
WC
C� � ! �R
EY: ~`
Meeting
190 JUN 18 F"n in ,�lanning Board
7:30 p.mifty Council Chambers
Tenth Floor, City Hall
May 1, 1990
The meeting was convened at 7:30 p.m. by Floyd Wright, Chairman, with five
members present:
Barnhart, Horne, LeBlanc, McNutt, Wright
Excused Absences: Motion was made by LeBlanc, seconded by Horne to excuse
Beth Monteith and Rose Killips; APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Spackman
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Staff presentations made by Jim Spackman, Deputy Director
Z-9-90, 320 North Walnut Street DM-4 to D-1
JOHN PETERS, petitioner, 631 Dunbar Court, East Lansing. The intent is to
convert the first floor to office use. The current tenant, presently on the
first floor, will remain as long as she desires. Two trees will have to be
removed in the rear to expand parking. All of the trees will remain along
the south and north lot lines. A new patient driveway will be installed,
with the present shared drive remaining for residential tenants. Seven spaces
would be constructed in the rear yard. The fence will stay.
ROBERT MORRIS, 311 Seymour Street. I am against this request. There will be
a loss of mature maple trees. Also a loss of residential , the DM-4 uses are
likely to remain. The shared lot line has a 30 inch higher grade and
drainage will go to the east. There is no snow storage plan or buffering
plan. They plan to pave much more space than is really needed. I believe it
functions very well as residential .
ELEANOR HAROLDSON, owner of 328 North Walnut (also submitted a letter) strongly
objects to office use.
Communications were received from:
ELEANOR HAROLDSON, the zoning designation cannot legally be used. There is
no room for buffering of the parking lot from the properties on the north or
r
Lansing Planning Board
May 1, 1990
Page 2
east. The common driveway between 328 and 320 North Walnut precludes placing
a barrier between the properties. The plan submitted does not have complete,
accurate measurements. Green space would be severely depleted.
JOSEPH CARUSO, MD. , wholeheartedly endorses the rezoning.
MARCELINE LANTZ, 319 West Shiawassee--opposes any zoning change and tree
removal . Homes are occupied day and night, which is a deterrent to crime.
BONNIE SMITH, 328,- North Walnut--I do not want offices next door. It will
create the need for additional parking and result in too great an intensity
of driveway use.
KIMBERLEE KLEPPER, 324 North Walnut--request this be denied; (1) with more
business , downtown becomes more unsafe for those who live here, and (2)
mature shade trees would have to be cut down.
DALE MARTIN, Motor Wheel Corporation--we are dismayed that this will be one
more blacktopped neighbor, we are losing green area.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
SLU-4-90, 609, 611 and 615 South Grand Avenue
Mr. Spackman answered questions from the Board. The parking lot will be
required to be paved and landscaping, screening and buffering installed in
conformance with the Code. The structure was razed about six months ago and
gravel has been on site during that period of time.
The petitioner, MR. DAVIDSON, owner of the property to the north, south and
east, submitted a plan, photo and drainage plan and responded to questions.
There are residential tenants living in the house to the north. We propose
to close the two curb cuts and construct one new drive cut which provides
access to the entire lot. No additional cuts are planned. We plan to use
about half of the spaces for our requirements and offer the remaining spaces
as leased parking. We own most of the area to the south and east. The grass
area will remain and only 18 to 20 parking spaces will be made.
A communication was received from JUDY GARDI , President of the Cherry Hill
Neighborhood Association, recommending approval , at least on a temporary basis
because it would be better than a dusty, vacant lot. This is subject to; (1)
landscape screening and buffering, to be approved by this Committee, (2)
Lansing Planning Board
May 1, 1990
Page 3
special attention to south property line to discourage cars from parking in
grass lot and (3) vehicle parking be separated from the renovated structure
to the north.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the minutes of April 17, 1990; supported
by Ms. McNutt; APPROVED
Zoning and Ordinance Committee:
The Chairman, Merle Barnhart, reported this month's meeting will be Wednesday,
May 9, 1990 at 2:30 p.m. in the Planning Division Conference Room.
Urban Development Committee:
Mr. Spackman reported the Capital Improvements Six Year Program, 1991-1996
will be delivered to Board members within the next week and will be discussed
at the next Urban Development Committee meeting.
The next meeting of the Committee will be Tuesday, May 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the
Council Conference Room.
Report from Planning Director: Jim Foulds
1) The Council last evening did appoint a new Board member. Gary Goolsby is
a resident of the downtown area and a member of their Association and has
appeared before the Board on several land use issues. He is an attorney and
will be meeting with me tomorrow morning for a background briefing for new
Board members and plans to attend your next meeting.
2) Regarding the article on the monorail proposal between our downtown area
and the M.S.U. campus. In 1983 the City of Lansing Planning Department, City
of East Lansing and the Michigan Department of Transportation undertook a
Lansing Planning Board
May 1, 1990
Page 4
rather extensive study of options for a light rail system down East Michigan
Avenue connecting the downtown court area with East Lansing and the Campus.
At that time several alternatives were looked at; a) the existing bus system
upgrading--Michigan Avenue is the highest utilized customer corridor for the
CATA system. (b) construction of a light rail system, either monorail or
birail down the corridor, which would necessitate acquisition of additional
right-of-way and construction of pedestrian access stations. The conclusion
of that study which utilized consultant services from George Beetle and Company
from Philadelphia was there was not ridership potential to support such a
concept. Discussions with CATA revealed that though ridership is up, we are
never going to be able to pay off the bond issue long-term for such a
facility in that corridor.
That means that such a concept, while interesting and exciting, would not pay
for itself with the revenue generated through the system. If other revenue
sources are found; grants, general 'bond issues, property tax issues, it could
be constructed. Unfortunately, with the experience of mass transit throughout
the country it's very difficult to acquire grants on a long term basis.
Substantial revenue would be necessary to construct and operate the system.
There are a lot of reports on it, but from a ridership standpoint, it does
not appear feasible. There may be methods available to reduce capital invest-
ment costs.
3) The City has entertained parking multi-use development proposals on two
sites , the first being the southwest corner of Kalamazoo and Grand Avenue.
Those proposals have been returned. We have four in hand; (1) CATA for the
development of a transportation terminal system in conjunction with the parking
ramp structure that Lansing would construct. (2) Heart of the City Associates,
residential on the top with a parking structure below. The other two proposals
are for different configurations of office and parking on that site. Adminis-
tration will evaluate those proposals and make a recommendation to the Mayor.
You will have the opportunity to comment on that issue.
The proposals for the Lot #2 site, southwest corner of Capitol and Shiawassee,
are due the end of May.
4) At your last meeting you discussed Lansing Community College rezoning and
special land use requests and tabled those issues pending receipt of an
overall plan. Mr. Spackman is a member of a coordination/information/recom-
mendation committee established between the neighborhood and the College.
Mr. Spackman reported. The planning committee met last Friday. Dr. Sykes
gave the committee the task of investigating land use alternatives and wanted
the committee to make recommendations on the future of the College in downtown
Lansing Planning Board
May 1, 1990
Page 5
to include expansion and disposition of the housing structures. Dr. Sykes
was very upbeat which put the committee in a positive frame of mind. The
Committee is divided into two study groups, one to review land use issues and
the other to review facilities need from the strategic plan. We will keep
the Board informed as the planning evolves with Lansing Community College and
this Committee.
New Business:
The next Board meeting will be held in Judge Giddings' Court Room #3 at the
top of the escalator, Znd floor of City Hall .
Board Member Comments:
Mr. Wright quoted from Robert's Rules of Order on tabling motions. To "lay
on the table" enables the assembly to temporarily set aside the pending
question. This motion is commonly misused to "postpone indefinitely" or to a
certain time. So we should be "postponing" instead of "tabling" actions on
cases. A motion to postpone is debatable. A motion to table is not debatable.
Communication:
At the April 30, 1990 City Council meeting Emly Horne and Floyd Wright were
reappointed to the terms ending June 30, 1994.
Board Member Comments:
We are aware of the passing of our friend and former Board member Alice
Wieland and are sorry to have that happen.
Adjournment:
The regular Planning Board meeting of May 1, 1990 was adjourned at 8:43 p.m.
tfully sub itte ,
am s N. Foulds, Dir ctor
Lan in Planning Division
WC
r'
Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:30 p.m. , Circuit Court Room #3
Second Floor, City Hall
May 15, 1990
Floyd Wright, Chairman, convened the meeting at 7:30 p.m. with six members
present:
Barnhart, Goolsby_, Horne, Killips, LeBlanc, Wright
Excused: Mr. Barnhart moved and Ms. Horne supported to excuse the absences
of Margie McNutt and Beth Monteith; APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Spackman, Fountain
Introduction and welcome given to Garry Goolsby, new Board member.
Approval of Agenda:
Mr. Barnhart wishes to add Z-8-90, 215/219 West Lapeer Street to Zoning
and Ordinance Committee agenda.
Comments from the Audience:
LANCE CLARK, 223 South Eighth Street, member of Green Oaks Target Area,
regarding NCU-21-89, 800 Eureka Street. In 1984 the City Council rezoned 800
Eureka from DM-4 to C-2 Residential District. So what you would do now is
negate that action by granting Class A status for this property. That lot
contains 5,082 square feet. If it were a conforming use, it would require
8,400 square feet. The assumption is we'd have one efficiency, one 1 bedroom
and one 2 bedroom unit. That is rather large for that .building when we think
of Class . A conversion as a positive for the City. This owner has fought the
direction our organization is moving in. I am disappointed with staff's
recommendation. We have been fighting slumlords and those who would house
the crime element in our neighborhood. Thank you for your time.
CHERRYL VALLEAU, 226 South Eighth Street. I worked with Lance on our area
plan for two years and have seen improvement. This owner seems to have a
problem with tenants on a regular basis. I feel we are on the right path,
but have to continue to reduce the density and I am frustrated. Committee
chose to bring this case out and staff has come recommended approval . It
seems the wants and needs of a neighborhood are being ignored and I don't
think that's fair to us. I ask you to leave it a two unit house. Thank you.
Lansing Planning Board
May 15, 1990
Page 2
RUTH KRUGER, owner of project at 800 Eureka. I would like to do considerable
renovation of the property and can only do that with Class A status. I asked
the Organization if they had any opposition and at meetings there was not. I
take care of my tenants and have improved every property I 've owned there. I
ask for Board support.
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the minutes of May 1, 1990; supported by
Ms. LeBlanc; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Merle Barnhart, Chairman
Z-9-90, 320 North Walnut Street DM-4 to D-1
The Committee recommends approval with reservations:
1) That the property owner work closely with the Planning Division and Public
Service Department to establish a drainage plan for this site that will
provide necessary drainage and alleviate some existing drainage problems
from the area. This plan shall be submitted to and approved by the
Public Service Department prior to further development of the site.
2) Parking layout and landscape screening and buffering plan shall be submitted
to and approved by the Planning Division prior to development of the
site.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
NCU-7-90, 1700/1720/1800 South Pennsylvania Avenue--Class A
The Committee moved to approve the request for Class A status for properties
located at 1700, 1720 and 1800 South Pennsylvania Avenue subject to conditions:
Lansing Planning Board
May 15, 1990
Page 3
1) -A final site plan, development plan which includes parking, drainage,
circulation and landscape, screening and- buffering be submitted and
approved by appropriate city agencies prior to any further building permits
being issued.
2) : The property is cleaned up of debris and junk and building materials are
kept organized and inside if possible.
3) . The site improvements of hard surfacing, curb cuts, drainage and land-
scaping, screening and buffering be completed within 90 days of the issuance
of the first building permit following approval of the Class A designation.
Mr. Barnhart so moved; seconded by Ms. LeBlanc; APPROVED
NCU-21-89, 800 Eureka Street--Class A
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee, after much deliberation and discussion,
recommends for 800 Eureka Street that;
1) Class A nonconforming status for the property be approved with the provision
that rehabilitation of the building and implementation of necessary site
improvements be completed within one (1) year. This includes discontinuance
of the basement unit from service.
2) The provisional status shall continue for one (1) year and at the- end of
one year if the project is completed, provisional status shall be removed
automatically. If the project is not completed at the end of one year,
the Planning Board may require reapplication for or revocation of Class A
status.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval , Ms. LeBlanc supported for the purpose of
voting;
Ms. Killips questioned why Ms. LeBlanc had voted against it in Committee.
Ms. LeBlanc responded; mainly because in 1984 when it was rezoned to C
Residential , which calls for two units, it was a result of the Master Plan
and an attempt to reduce density in the neighborhood.
Ms. LeBlanc offered to the motion that this be limited to a two unit structure.
Mr. Barnhart agreed and voice vote was called for two units only;
APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
May 15, 1990
Page 4
Z-5-90, 324 North Pine Street -DM-3 to D-2 -.
The Committee recommends that the request that property at 324 North Pine
Street be rezoned from "DM-3" Residential to "D-2" Residential/Office District
to allow conversion of the first floor apartment into private offices for
-Children' s Charter and retain the second floor apartment be approved with the
understanding that the applicant will establish an easement for additional
parking on the adjacent property to the east.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
NCU-9-90, 1520 East Michigan Avenue
The Committee recommends approval for the request for substitution of property
at 1520 East Michigan Avenue to operate a coffee shop with retail bakery
goods with the understanding that hours of operation will be limited to 6
a.m. to 12 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 24 hour service Friday and
Saturday.
Mr. Barnhart so moved, Ms. LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
Z-2-90, 1900 Block North Larch Street and 1800 Block of Thompson Street
C/F and H to F
The Committee has received a letter from the applicant, J. Gupta, stating he
is presently working to resolve problems with the land and requests the item
be tabled to the next Committee meeting. Mr. Barnhart stated this will be
held for the next Committee meeting. .
Mr. Barnhart requested update information for new Board members on Z-8-90,
215/219 West Lapeer Street. Mr. Fountain reported this is part of three
requests by Lansing Community College to allow more parking area. Staff
formed the position of endorsing the rezoning change on Lapeer Street for
office only, but not endorsing the rezoning or special land use at Lapeer,
West Saginaw and Walnut.
Mr. Spackman added Dr. Sykes indicated that strategic planning efforts are
ongoing at Lansing Community College and the special committee is working on
a development plan which will be presented to the Board of Trustees. Subsequent
to that there will need to- be a long range land use plan for the entire
College. The City of Lansing' s River Island Master Plan calls for office use
Lansing Planning Board.
May 15, 1990
Page 5
in that area of Lapeer Street. The Board of Trustees feels the Planning
Board should take a position and move it on to City Council . Dr. Sykes feels _
the city should honor the Master Plan so he is requesting that Board reconsider
their tabling action. It would be good faith for the City to show we are
moving ahead on some of the requests even though we can't move forward on the
Walnut Street issue, which is a major departure from the Master Plan. Dr.
Sykes also indicated the contract has been let for demolition of all structures
on Walnut, including the one on Saginaw Street. Administration has not
signed the demolition permit. So staff is requesting the Board give positive
action and request the Board have another meeting before the next Planning
Board meeting for discussion on this matter; possibly a dinner meeting to
include Dr. Sykes and Ms . Kellogg of the Downtown Neighborhood Association.
Mr. Spackman suggested this added meeting may be more positive than the
Board's action tonight where unanimous support appears doubtful .
Ms. LeBlanc stated she would like to have L.C.C. look at moving these Lapeer
Street houses, even to the Walnut area. Mr. Spackman pointed out that L.C.C.
has the option of requesting "J" Parking district for the Lapeer Street
properties. We would have better control with the office zoning and this
zoning fits the Master Plan.
Mr. Goolsby reported; I will vote no because I understand the need for long
term planning in this area. If they are only picking up ten or twelve
parking spaces, I am willing to wait a few months to find what direction they
are headed in. L.C.C. is an asset to the downtown area and I wish they would
stay, but it is just too much for the area to lose.
The next meeting of the Committee will be June 13 at 2:30 p.m. in the
Division Conference Room.
Urban Development Committee: Emly Horne reported
Capital Improvement Six Year Program, 1991-1996
A finalized version of the previously submitted draft is being submitted to
the Board. This report details projects that are either being carried forward
or being recommended in the 1991 City Budget; those projects identified as
high priority or not as high of a priority, arranged in a three -year program
in the second to fourth years and a six year program. There is a statement
on the 1991 budget estimates by the Finance Department, which was taken from
the Mayor's recommended budget to the City Council . In the appendix is the
statement of City Goals and Objectives formulated back in 1976.
Ms. Horne moved that the Board accept the 1991-1996 Capital Improvements
Program and endorse it to the Mayor and City Council and Mr. Goolsby supported;
APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
May 15, 1990
Page 6
Act-7-90, Michigan State University Research Park
The Urban Development Committee recommends that the street names selected by
Michigan State University Foundation be approved with the understanding that;
1) That Alliance Drive for the secondary street which intersects with Forest
Road.
2) Technology Parkway for the main road which intersects with Collins Road
in two locations.
Ms. Horne moved and Mr. Goolsby supported; APPROVED
Act-8-90, Nellers Court--Vacate Street ROW
The Committee recommends that Nellers Court be vacated subject to any utility
easement rights which may be required. It is further recommended that the
street be barricaded at Baker Street to prevent access until the street
surface is removed.
Ms. Horne so moved and Mr. Goolsby seconded; APPROVED
The next meeting of the Committee will be June 12 at 5:30 p.m. in the
Planning Division Conference Room.
New Business:
Reminder that the Board' s next meeting will be held in Judge Giddings Court
Room #3 at the top of the City Hall escalator.
Adjournment:
The regular May 15, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board stood adjourned
at 9 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Gti:�G�LIGNt�
James R.eS an, Deputy Director
for
James N. Foulds, Division Director
WC
REM LANSING
Regular Meeting
Lansi ng PI anni ng BoagV:
7:30 p.m. , Circuit Court Room 43
Second Floor, City Hag90 JUL 1.0 Ail 9 00
June 5, 1990
Floyd Wright, Chairman, convened the meeting with eight members present:
Barnhart, Goolsby, Horne, Killips, LeBlanc, McNutt, Monteith, Wright
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Fountain, Spackman
Approval of Agenda:
Mr. Barnhart wishes to add case Z-8-90, 215/219 West Lapeer Street (a tabled
item) to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee agenda. APPROVED
PUBLIC HEARINGS: Presented by Vern Fountain, Zoning Administrator for the
City of Lansing
Z-10-90, 1020 East Saginaw Street D-1 to F
RICK BELLINGAR, 1335 East Grand River Avenue, East Lansing, petitioner. I
applied for this and the lot next to this to put a parking lot in. They told
me at the Clerk's office it shouldn't be a problem. Mr. Foulds stated; we
don't have a petition on the second lot, we can only complete the hearing on
this one and investigate the other property to the west.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-11-90, 3113 North East Street A to F
HOWARD DEXTER, 532 East Howe Avenue. Originally when I bought this property
I thought it was zoned correctly. We will renovate not remove the structures.
I will do all the work on vehicles.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-12-90, 2416 North East Street B to F
JOYCE STRICKLAND, 726 Call Street. We have no objection to the building
being enlarged, but it has always been a trashy place (presented pictures) .
If the trailers are taken out and no more trash is hauled in, we could make
them clean it up. They have cleaned up some in the past few months.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Lansing Planning Board
June 6, 1990
Page 2
LS-18-90, 6200 Block of Rosedale Road
Mr. Wright stated; it appears from the size of the lots, there may have been
lot splits in the general area. Mr. Fountain responded; there have been
divisions in the past, some of which occurred before annexation to the City,
very few after that. Most of the area was developed before annexation. One
split was considered a few months ago and there are others lots in the area
with similar frontage.
JOE DONAHUE and my son Pat, with Donahue Builders, DeWitt. Apparently the
one that was denied had a driveway down through the lot. We understand the
neighbors' concern. That property is owned by the Miller Road Church and is
not on the tax rolls now. The Church will make money and not maintain the
property as they have been doing. Taxes would bring in about $4600 a year to
the City. Also, the houses on each side of these lots; one was assessed at
$14,100, the other at $11,000 so we are not underbuilding the neighborhood.
Two lots down each way have 55 foot frontage so we are not setting a precedent.
The lot is 198 foot deep by 55 foot wide; square footage would be 10,890. A
lot in a new subdivision, which is 60 foot frontage say 120 foot deep, would
total 7200 square feet. So we have 3600 square feet more than what the City
would approve in a new subdivision. We are proud of all the houses we've
built. We would put up a three bedroom ranch with a full basement, sell in a
$60,000 price range and believe it would be an asset to the neighborhood.
HAROLD STAGGEMEIER, 6131 Rosedale. Mr. Donahue was kind enough to come
around and talk to us and somewhat allay my fears. However, we do not have a
signed contract that he is going to build some specific house. If you
approve, we will have to depend on his word that he will follow through.
Foulds: We cannot require him to build. The function of this Board and the
City is to determine if the lot division at this location is proper.
MARK MILLER, 6212 Rosedale. Mr. Donahue says he is not trying to overbuild
the neighborhood. I purchased my house approximately two years ago for
$36,000. If he builds $60,000 homes directly next to me, I am concerned with
the equity balance. I am not sure at what my neighbors are assessed. My
other concern is splitting the lots at 55 feet. My lot is 67 feet wide and
down the street are some that are 55 feet wide with a depth of 200 feet. It
makes a very nice lot because they are so deep and wide. I understand last
fall the lot across the street was denied for splitting. This will directly
affect where I am going to park my cars, the view down the street, etc. I
tried to purchase the lot the day the sign went up and there was already a
bid in on it. I was interested in buying 20 to 30 feet to give me a
right-of-way to my back yard. The neighbor on the north was also interested
Lansing Planning Board
June 6, 1990
Page 3
in buying 25 to 35 feet. Thank you for letting me express my concerns and I
hope you take neighborhood feelings into consideration.
WILLIAM GRAHAM, 6215 Rosedale Road. From the petition you can see the
residents do care about this property. The property just to the north of me
was refused to be split just last fall and I don't know how you can refuse
one and give another permission. If the Subdivision Regulations stipulate a ;
minimum of 60 feet width, why should we change that? Thank you.
Joe Donahue: I understand how these people feel . When I drive up to a
vacant lot and drive a stake in the ground the neighbors are mad because they
have used it for grass clippings, the kids have used it for a play area, kite
flying. But you can't stop progress after you have your house built.
(Photos of intended structures were presented. )
REFERRED TO THE ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
t
SLU-6-90, 2125 Lyman Drive--Adult Foster Care
MIKE STURLEY, Community Mental Health. We are asking for a seven bed facility.
This is one of the ways we believe we can continue to provide care. We are
asking for special land use permits in virtually every county we serve. I am
familiar with some neighborhood concerns. One was that persons from our home
would be wandering into their home. We had that problem a few years ago and
since that time someone lives there and we have not had that problem since.
There will be cars parked on the street that relate to visiting families. We
are aware that is a big problem to deal with in a fairly small neighborhood.
One neighbor questioned whether we would change the nature or type of person
living in the home. People who live there are developmentally disabled. She
also asked if more beds would be added. The answer is no. With a home for
seven a state license is involved. So this is simply a request for a seventh
person. We began with six people in September of 1985. A state law supersedes
local authority so long as there are six or less persons. In our experience
we have difficulty opening a home in a neighborhood with more than six. Also
our treatment theory has been to keep homes as small as possible. Because of
financial problems we are faced with adding another bed.
A letter was received from CHARLES KEELEY, 2124 Lyman Drive, who is opposed.
The lawn is not cared for and there are employee cars on the street which is
a hazard to children. I had an unsupervised visit from a resident into my
house.
Mr. Goolsby asked; several changes would have to be made to the building if
this is granted, are you prepared to do that? Sturley: I have been in
Lansing Planning Board
June 6, 1990
Page 4
t
contact with the Building Division and I feel some of the requests are
excessive. We have to meet Michigan Department of Social Services for physical
plant and safety so we hope to work out something.
REFERRED TO THE ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the minutes of May 15, 1990 as printed.
Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Chairman, Merle Barnhart
Z-8-90, 215/219 West Lapeer Street DM-3 to D-1
Mr. Barnhart made motion to remove this item from the table. Ms. Horne
supported; APPROVED
This is a request by Lansing Community College to rezone that property at
215/219 West Lapeer Street from "DM-3" Residential to "D-1" Professional
Office District to allow the property to be redeveloped for off street parking
facilities for use by Lansing Community College. The off street parking will
be a continuance of an existing parking lot having frontage on Capitol Avenue
and access off of Lapeer Street. The Committee recognizes that the proposed
change is in substantial conformance with the River Island Master Plan.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of this request as filed; Ms. McNutt seconded;
APPROVED
New Business:
Mr. Foulds: I would like to discuss summer meeting schedules for the Board.
Mr. Goolsby moved to adopt the meeting schedule to eliminate the July 3 and
August 7 meetings and Ms. Horne supported; APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
June 6, 1990
Page 5
The June 19 meeting will be held in Circuit Court Room #3.
Board Member Comments:
Mrs. Horne suggested staff be directed to arrange a meeting to have conversation
with the Lansing Community College Board of Trustees.
Adjournment:
The regular June 5, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned at 9
p.m.
spectfully submit ed,
J m N. Foulds , Director
L sing Planning Division
WC
Regular Meeting
Lansing Planning Board
7:30 p.m. , Circuit Court Room #3
Second Floor, City Hall _
June 19, 1990 -
Chairman, Floyd Wright, reported the meeting was compelled to move to the
second floor of the Lansing Planning Division Conference Room; the time is
7:50 p.m. with six members present:
Barnhart, Goolsby, Horne, Killips, LeBlanc, Wright
Excused: Margie McNutt
Motion made and approved to excuse the absence ofBeth Monteith; APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Fountain
The agenda was approved as printed.
PUBLIC HEARING: Vern Fountain presented this case.
SLU-7-90, 1507 Jerome Street--Adult Foster Care Facility
MICHAEL STURLEY, Associate Director of Facilities and Contract Administration
for Clinton, Eaton, Ingham Counties Community Mental Health Board, petitioner.
This case is nearly identical to Lyman Drive, that is, we are interested in
adding one additional bed to this home to reduce operating expenses. The
difference is that the home has been used for emotionally impaired or mentally
ill adults. That will change to developmentally disabled adults; perhaps
that's better known as mentally retarded. We have met with the neighborhood
association and have no objections from them. Their concern is that we
continue to have 24 hour staffing in the home, which we will do.
We have found emotionally impaired are more mobile and make more decisions
for themselves. Our developmentally disabled population are much less mobile
and more responsive to supervision and I can say, almost without exception,
we do not have developmentally disabled people leaving the premises unescorted.
There is room to park by the garage and we intend to use the alley and
garage, which is in tough shape but we would work with Ingham County, owners
of the building, to deal with that. We use the garage for general storage
and I would prefer salvage as opposed to tearing it down. We could create a
traffic pattern exiting through the alley, which is about 55 feet wide.
JAMES STATMILLER, proposed operator of the facility. Currently I operate a
six bed home on Averill Drive. At present I have one full time staff person
Lansing Planning Board
June 19, 1990
Page 2
and myself. I have a ' 79 suburban used to transport residents for daily and
weekend activities. That will be left at the home. The only other person
using the driveway would be the other staff person. Visitors are very
limited. All six of the developmentally disabled people will come from the
Averill home, which will be closed and go back to duplex status.
Two communications were received from:
JOSEPH M. MINTON, JR. , 223 Rumsey, with no objections to the request for an
increase- to seven.
MARY MARGARET MURPHY-WOLL, President of the East Side Neighborhood Organi-
zation, who states a good relationship with the Home and acceptance of a one
bed increase. However, they do have a concern with the garage and grounds.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Comments from the Audience:
Joseph O' Leary, regarding NCU-12-90, 808 West Barnes. The building was formerly
a convent and the Nuns have departed. There was a need for office space and
we desire to use it for that rather than letting it deteriorate. There may
be a ramp required or renovation of a lavatory. Parking would not be a
problem, there is a lot for the church. The people working there are temporary,
only a few hours a week using the parking lot during the day. We would make
improvements on the building.
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Barnhart moved to approve the minutes as printed of June 5, 1990, supported
by Mr. Goolsby; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Merle Barnhart, Chairman
Z-10-90 As 1020 East Saginaw Street D-1 to F
The Committee recommends that the request to rezone property at 1020 East
Saginaw Street from "D-1" Professional Office District to "F" Commercial
Lansing Planning Board
June 19, 1990
Page 3
District to allow the operation of a barber shop with retail sales be approved.
The Committee was satisfied that the proposed use would be compatible with
adjacent non-residential land uses. Also the applicant has requested rezoning
of the adjacent lot to the west for off street parking.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Z-11-90, 3113 North East Street A to F
The Committee recommends that the request to rezone property at 3113 North
East Street from "A" Residential to "F" Commercial District be denied as
filed. This property is identified on the Master Plan as residential , however,
fronts North East Street, a principal arterial and state trunk line, which
does not make use of the property in this block face desirable as residential .
Therefore, rezoning of the properties should only be considered based on an
overall plan for the entire block face between Paulson and Community streets.
Mr. Barnhart moved for denial and Ms. Horne supported; DENIED
Z-12-90, 2416 North East. Street B to F
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends that the property in the rear
of the existing property at 2416 North East Street from "B" Residential to
"F" Commercial District be approved based on the site plan presented this
evening, including the location of existing buildings, off street parking and
ingress/egress .
Mr. Fountain added, the district requested does not allow outside commercial
storage and if junk should show up again, we would turn that over to Code
Enforcement. We found this site plan satisfactory. When building permits
are requested, they will have to file a site plan with specific screening and
buffering as well as construction of the building. There are two points of
ingress/egress and we asked for elimination of one just to the west of that.
Now just the one off of Call Street and the others are chained in off hours.
Mr. Barnhart moved that the rezoning be approved based on the new site plan
showing the outline of the new addition as it relates to existing development.
The petitioner is aware of the sealed architectural drawings for the building.
He will follow the recommendation of staff regarding landscape and screening
according to our Ordinance. . Ms. LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
June 19, 1990
Page 4
LS-18-90, 6200 Block of Rosedale Road
The Committee recommends that the request for a lot division for property in
the 6200 block of Rosedale Road be approved. The applicant. proposes to
divide an existing 110 by 98 foot lot into -two parcels, each with a 55 foot
frontage on Rosedale Road. The Subdivision Ordinance requires a minimum,
however, there are other lots- in the vicinity with similar width and depth
dimensions and the two lots created have an area that far exceeds the minimum
requirements of the district in which they are located.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms. Horne supported; APPROVED
SLU-6-90, 2125 Lyman Drive--Adult Foster Care
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends that the request for a special
land use permit for an adult foster care facility at 2125 Lyman Drive be
approved. This proposal is to increase the number of individuals cared for
from six to seven (7) . The Committee found that the Building Division has
certain Code requirements the applicant will have to meet and it will be
necessary to address these requirements or seek relief from the Building
Board of Appeals.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. Horne supported; APPROVED
Z-2-90, 1900 Block of North Larch Street and the 1800 Block of Thompson
Street C and F to H
The Committee recommends denial of the request to rezone property in the 1900
block of North Larch Street and the 1800 block of Thompson Street from "C"
Residential , "F" Commercial and "H" Light Industrial Districts to "F" Commercial
District to construct and pave a lot for used car sales .
The Committee found that the designated land use is residential in the Northeast
Master Plan. Further the site has access only from Thompson Street, which is
developed predominantly with residential homes, and would definitely introduce
additional traffic and activity into this established area. The irregular
shape of this property and the existing topography would limit the area that
could be developed without adversely impacting adjacent development. The
Public Service Department indicated there are only combined sewers available
in Thompson Street to serve this property and they would need to determine
storm water runoff control . Storm sewer capacity -may not be available.
The Committee is not convinced a used car lot would be the proper use for the
property. -Based on that evidence and the fact that he could- not assemble any
more property to alleviate the problems identified, therefore, Mr. Barnhart
Lansing Planning Board
June 19, 1990
Page 5
moved to deny this request and Ms. LeBlanc seconded.
Mr. Fountain added; we have mentioned to him the possibility of two or three
residential homes. The second use of the property on Thompson was a more
controlled type use, perhaps a parking lot associated with the forging business,
as opposed to something non-residential in nature and would put traffic up
and down Thompson all the time.
The other thing we talked to him about was separating those two triangles and
have on the south parcel a residential or special land use. On the north
parcel we talked specifically about getting direct access onto Larch Street
as opposed to coming onto Thompson, which would cause him to either purchase
or join in with the commercial activity on the corner of Douglas and Larch so
access could be provided from the primary street. Those were the verbal
alternatives we offered the petitioner.
Motion for denial restated; DENIED
NCU-10-90, 616 West Shiawassee Street--Class A
The Committee recommends approval of this request from Clinton, Eaton, Ingham
Counties for a facility at 616 West Shiawassee Street which currently houses
nine persons. The intent is to continue the existing use and have it licensed
by the Michigan Department of Social Services. The site is presently a Class
B status, which does not allow substantial improvements to be made. Class A
status would allow additional investment to keep the facility in safe and
proper condition.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval ; Ms. Killips seconded;
Mr. Fountain added; if they decided to add to the building, they would have
to meet all initial requirements; setbacks, submit a building permit, but
there would not be a public hearing unless he decided to increase the intensity
of use of the building.
Mr. Goolsby questioned; what is the rationale for improvements, such as a
furnace, which I consider essential ? Mr. Foulds answered, it was to discourage
that use at that location over the long term.
Motion restated; APPROVED
Lansing Planning Board
June 19, 1990
Page 6
NCU-11-90, 517 North Walnut Street--Class A
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends that the request for approval
of Class A nonconforming status for property at 517 North Walnut Street be
approved. The purpose is to continue the use as a 27 bed residential care
facility and allow substantial improvements to_ the existing building.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms. Horne supported; APPROVED
NCU-12-90, 808 West Barnes Avenue--Substitution
The Committee recommends approval of a substitution of use for property at
808 West Barnes Avenue to utilize the property for accessory offices in
conjunction with the church facilities.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval , seconded by Ms. Horne; APPROVED
The next meeting of the Committee will be July 11 , 1990 at 2:30 p.m. in the
Planning Division Conference Room. Mr. Barnhart reported he will be unable
to attend that meeting and requested Ms. Monteith, Vice Chairman chair the
meeting. Ms. Horne volunteered to be present because of the two absences.
Urban Development Committee: Ms. Killips, Chairman
Act-15-90, 1225 East Main Street
The Committee recommends that the request to purchase city owned land east of
1225 East Main Street be approved subject to the following:
1. Appropriate setbacks be maintained for drives or construction.
2. No vehicles or plantings be permitted on the northmost 25 feet in order
to maintain clear sight distances for motorists.
3. That the property be landscaped.
Ms. Killips so moved and Ms. Horne supported;
Mr. Barnhart asked, don't they mean the southernmost 25 feet?
Motion restated; APPROVED
Act-17-90, 905 West Genesee
The Committee recommends that the request to clear encroachment at the old
Crown Cleaners building for historical renovation and creating two apartments
Lansing Planning Board
June 19, 1990
Page 7
be granted for the life of the building -at 905 West Genesee Street.
Ms. Killips so moved and Ms. LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
The next meeting of the Urban Development Committee is scheduled for
August 14, 1990 in the Council Conference Room at 5:30 p.m.
Report from Planning Director: Jim Foulds
1) Council adopted a resolution for new parking rates. One part was;
"Council hereby requests the policy pertaining to changes to the parking
requirements for new buildings in the "G-1" Business District, which is the
downtown area and requested the Planning Board prepare a recommendation at
the Council 's earliest possible convenience. " In other words, the "G-1"
Business District presently does not require parking for new development in
K the downtown, but to supply parking through its parking authority based on a
revenue generating system; selling bonds, building facilities, surface
parking, etc. This is a major change in policy in terms of placing the
T responsibility, possibly for providing parking, totally developed on the
backs of the property owner. The question is simple, the answer complex
because there are a lot of economic implications for this issue. Staff will
probably bring in a consultant to look at all alternatives in the next six
to eight months. I will have to rearrange the Work Program and for the
consultant we will have to ask Council for some funds.
Board member comments included that handicapped parking should be addressed
and concern with surface lots spreading.
2) The City has entertained proposals for joint development for the southwest
corner of Kalamazoo and Grand and we have four proposals in hand. We also
have entertained proposals for the southwest corner of Shiawassee and Capitol
Avenue and have four proposals on hand which we are currently reviewing and
there will be a public presentation with the Board, along with other city
boards , individuals and organizations. Times and dates were given.
3) In the memorandum of understanding between the City of Lansing and
Lansing Community College, the only addition was the property on the north
side of the-Mall , directly adjacent to the fire station site. The City will
be selling .two surface lots at fair market appraised value, rather than the
one. In addition L.C.C. would, based on this option, have an option for the
fire station site if and when it goes on the market in the future. Also,
the Capital City Airport property, which L.C.C. owns on the corner of Capital
Lansing Planning Board
June 19, 1990
Page 8
City Boulevard and North Grand River Avenue, which was to be their truck
driving school , et.al . If they decide at the end of their planning process
to dispose of that property, either the EDC or the -City, or both will have
first right of refusal to purchase and then market that for an industrial or
research park, or some combination of the two to attract new industries and
firms to the City.
Mr. Goolsby asked; has there ever been a study about locating a -hotel in the
general vicinity of the Airport property? When you look at other cities and
their traffic, they tend to help because people can come in, conduct their
business and be on site. Mr. Foulds reported; Leaventhal/Horwath are just
completing hotel market study for the City and I think the results will say
that the market is saturated.
Ms. Killips reported; I am working with the East Lansing Business and Cultural
Association to bid on using East Lansing/MSU for a very large conference and
the biggest problem we have is that there are no direct flights into Lansing.
People have to go to Chicago, Detroit, etc. to fly in small commuter planes
and they don't like to do that.
Ms. LeBlanc reported; I have heard from my neighborhood about the Capital
City property. We were involved when it was zoned for L.C.C. for a truck
driving school . It had to be industrial zoning for that. Our neighborhood
supported it because the plan had a park-like area in front, a dormitory,
then classrooms and then all the mechanical towards the back. Many neighborhood
people are worried about that being marketed as an industrial property.
Mr. Foulds: We do have a problem pertaining to a lack of small industrial
sites. We are in the best position to find the best things are done to
achieve a reasonable land use pattern for the approximately 40 acre site.
4) The City has undertaken a fee study for the purpose of determining in
city activities, are there revenues which could be generated that are not
now. Planning activities are all land use related. I provided the consultant
information about hourly staff costs, indirect overhead, material costs we
expend for these particular functions. They checked other overhead costs
dealing with structure, rent, energy costs, etc. , to end up with the full
cost of the activity based on the number of units processed on an annual
basis. We spend slightly over $150,000. For an average Board of Zoning
application we charge. the applicant $75 and expend over $2,000, on down
through lot splits, plat reviews, flood plain_ permits and nonconforming uses
or substitutions. Rezonings are currently by acre--one acre through five
plus, planned residential development, site plan review, industrial and com-
mercial tax abatement applications, Act 285 requests and information requests.
The consultant recommended new fees for those activities which would result
in proposed additional revenue and a total additional revenue. Currently
Lansing Planning Board
June 19, 1990
Page 9
there is no fee for lot splits. We process approximately 30 a year-; -our
costs average $632. The consultant is recommending a $200 fee per lot split.
The Mayor would like the affected Boards ' input as to whether these are
reasonable fees. Should general cost of government go toward keeping these
fees lower so everybody can afford them or should we make them pay for the
service or should there be a middle ground based on the size of application;
for example, on a one acre rezoning request the application fee is $200. A
five acre or greater is $450. We also don't charge for our- Act 285 requests.
Discussion was held and it was concluded the petitioners should expect to pay
for that service.
New Business:
The next Board meeting will be July 17, 1990 at the Lansing School District
Administration Building Board Room #106.
Board Member Comments:
Merle Barnhart requests an excused absence from the July 17, 1990 Board
meeting. Ms. LeBlanc moved for approval and Ms. Horne seconded; APPROVED
Adjournment:
The regular June 19, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned at
10:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
" l ^
Ja N. Foulds, Director
La sing Planning Division
WC
Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:30 p.m. , Board Room #106
Lansing School District Administration Building
July 17, 1990
Floyd Wright, Chairman, convened the meeting at 7:30 p.m. with five members
;G present:
Goolsby, Horne, LeBlanc, Monteith, Wright
Qj Excused Absences: Margie McNutt and Merle Barnhart
Mr. Goolsby moved to excuse the absence of Rose Killips and Ms. LeBlanc
seconded; APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Fountain, Love, Ruff
PUBLIC HEARINGS: The three rezoning cases were presented by Eleanor Love
Z-13-90, 3405 North East Street A to G-2
KEN WATTERSON, applicant, 7828 Blue Lagoon Drive. This is a 50 year old
non-residential building. It is very large and right now we will rent portions
and have warehouse use for the rest. The future may bring small assembly
business; i .e. , awnings.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-14-90, 3818 South Cedar Street A and J to F
NEIL VAN HOUTEN, petitioner, 6833 Eaton Highway. The larger of the two
buildings is already "J" Parking, the rest is commercial . The concern I have
is that if anything were to happen to the building, I may not be able to
build it again in the parking district. Also, I understand the majority of
this lot is zoned "F" Commercial . The second building will be used for
storage.
STAN LEWANDOWSKI, 3630 South Cedar, L&L Denstaedt Shop Rite. The cleaning
building will be used for produce and the other building for storage. Thank
you.
DAVE SCHULLING, 3630 South Cedar Street, L&L Denstaedt Shop Rite. There is a
house adjacent to the boutique; is that house part of this project?
Mr. Van Houten reported, that house has been removed. The building north of
my property has nothing to do with my business , I believe it's small engine
repair.
Planning Board Minutes
July 17, 1990
Page 2
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-10-90B, 1020 East Saginaw Street D-1 to F
RICK BELLINGAR, petitioner, 1335 East Grand River Avenue. It was well
presented and I would be glad to answer any questions. This will be used
for parking and will be hard surfaced. Regarding curb cuts, I think we will
go to the east, as suggested by Planning staff. So we will probably have a
cut to widen the existing cut; not a new one.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
SLU-8-90, 1015/1017 North Cedar Street--Presented by Jim Ruff
Ms. LeBlanc asked what kind of storm sewer and drainage is available. I
know they do use an oily substance which could leach into the ground. Mr.
Ruff reported, the property would have to be brought up to code for the type
of use and that would include hard surfacing of the area to be used for
storage and also would require proper drainage, which would typically be a
special catch basin for runoffs. Ms. Horne added, the opaque fence will not
be aesthetically pleasing, should they have some plantings also? Mr. Ruff
clarified, the special land use allows conditions to be placed on the land
which could be recommended by this Board.
JOHNNY DAVIS, 1209 Allen Street, petitioner. I bought this property because
I felt it would be an ideal location for the use I propose. Steel and
copper would be stored and there would be some washing machines.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-4-88, 5400 Block South Waverly Road--Presented by Jim Ruff, who also
presented the specia and use permit request for the same property,
SLU-3-88, 5400 Block of South Waverly Road
ANDREW SASS, Attorney, 118 West Lenawee submitted a letter on behalf of the
petitioner. The contemplated use of the mobile home park conforms with the
existing use in the area and complies to the intent of the proposed district.
The density of the existing properties in the surrounding area are at least
Planning Board Minutes
July 17 , 1990
Page 3
equal to or higher than the proposed use of this property. The current plan
has a density of less than five units per acre and is within the definition
of low density and suitable for use as a mobile home park. Although there
are other places in Michigan which might be more desirable, that does not
preclude granting this application. If there are any recommendations for
the use of this property, we would be happy to accept this. My client does
not want DM-1 . Thank you.
JERRY SPEEDY, 6100 Newport Road, with Edward Rose and Sons who are the
developers, builders , owners and managers of Waverly Park Apartments, which
abuts a portion of this property on the north side. We believe the mix in
the area now is compatible with residential uses. We oppose the Kensington
Meadows Mobile Home Park. An appraisal was done at the City' s request which
states regarding Kensington Meadows project; "The vacant tract of land
contiguous to the subject property on its west boundary. . .to rezone. to
"DM-1" Multiple for a modular housing project. . . . The plans call for 302
units, or density of 5.6 units per acre. If this proposal is approved, our
Appraiser feels there is a likelihood that the tenant mix and/or occupancy
levels for the subject property will be adversely affected. "
We agree with the staff report with respect to traffic, mobile home distribu-
tion in the area, overconcentration of mobile home parks and drainage problems
that might be created. Whatever happens to this 64 acres will most likely
be the dominating land use in the area.
One reason property values are adversely affected by mobile home parks is
because the artist doesn't provide for adequate setback requirements or
buffering. We have been told it will be installed at least to Ordinance
requirements. We are concerned that if this project is approved, it will
have the same buffering we have and the same south view. They will pay
around $200 tax for each mobile home. Waverly Park pays around $500 per
apartment in real estate taxes and single family homes in the area are
paying around $900. We have 54 school age children in 39 apartments at
Waverly Park. Statistics put 1.5 children per mobile home, so it would be
150 to 400 children for a 320 unit project. But our most present concern is
that this appraisal says our property will go down in value. Thank you for
listening.
MARY BISHOP, 905 Alton Drive, and own 5651 South Waverly property, what
schools do these children attend? Mr. Ruff answered; I believe north of the
Consumers Power right-of-way is Holt Schools, south is Lansing School District.
SOPHIE SEYKA, 3433 Cooley Drive and part owner of 5651 South Waverly Road.
We are opposed to the mobile home park. We don't think it' s appropriate.
Planning Board Minutes
July 17 , 1990
Page 4
Not only the schools and children, but the heavier traffic, use of the sewer
lines, streets and police protection. I am taxed and these people in mobile
homes are using the same service I am and pay $35. I feel that is not an
appropriate spot for that many units.
Communication was received from ROBERT CLEGG, City of Lansing Engineer--I
explained to Mary Ettinger the storm sewer outlet for this property is not
adequate for development. This property is served as part of the Eaton
County Drain Commission storm drainage system. It was explained that she
must petition the Drain Commissioner to provide adequate storm sewer outlets
before the Public Service Department could approve a storm sewer plan for
any development of this site. To the best of my knowledge there are no
plans to improve the storm sewer outlet to improve this property. The
Public Service Department cannot recommend that this proposed property
improvement proceed.
Andrew Sass. It would be inappropriate for my client to put in sewers for a
mobile home park and then not be permitted to put up the mobile home park.
If they are granted tentative approval , then she could see tentative condition
for putting in proper storm sewerage. Thank you.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Audience Comments :
JAN KOLP , 2828 Forest Road, in regard to the proposed plan for Forest Road,
PRD-1-90. The first choice of the Forest View Association would be that
this plan be joined to the Arboretum, which is part of the five year plan of
the Parks and Recreation Board to acquire this land by the City for addition
to the Arboretum. Our second choice would be that this land be used as
single family dwellings and the lots be comparable in size to those along
Forest Road.
WAYNE MAGEE, 1105 Palmer Lane, East Lansing, dealing with PRD-1-90. I have
been addressing the historic group and Friends of Fenner and continue to
deal with the issues at hand. The most important issue is the least impact
development will have on Fenner Arboretum. That took a lot of engineering
work and close inspections. The Parks Board recommended a reduction of
their 200 foot setback requirement to 75 feet.
Planning Board Minutes
July 17, 1990
Page 5
One of the most significant impacts occurred because of what we are going to
do to reduce impact on Fenner and a further reduction of the number of units
in the project. It now looks like the maximum would be 55, five units an
acre. I ask to have the Committee hold their recommendation until they can
look at our new layout maps.
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. . Goolsby moved for approval of the minutes of June 19, 1990 and Ms.
LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
SLU-7-90, 1507 Jerome Street
The Committee recommends approval of the request by the Clinton, Eaton,
Ingham Community Mental Health Board to obtain a special land use permit for
property located at 1507 Jerome Street to increase the size of the existing
adult foster care facility from six to seven (7) beds.
Ms. LeBlanc so moved subject to four conditions stated in the Committee's
report of July 11, 1990, after consideration of the eight stipulations also
stated in the July 11 Report. Those conditions are:
1. That the detached garage in the rear yard be rehabilitated or demolished.
2. That the dumpster located at the rear of the lot be eliminated or, if
it is going to be in continuous use, it be screened with opaque fencing.
3. That if the use of the joint drive off Jerome Street becomes a problem
with the neighbor to the east, the applicant should be required to
discontinue use of the joint drive and utilize the alley access.
4. That all requirements of the Building Safety Division and Fire Marshal 's
office be complied with.
Ms. Horne supported; APPROVED
Planning Board Minutes
July 17 , 1990
Page 6
Mr. Fountain added; the ENO asked for, and I believe CMH provided, a contact
person in case of any problems with the facility. Ms. Love added there are
presently mentally ill persons in the facility. When the number goes to
seven, it will be people that are just developmentally disabled.
NCU-13-90, 1124 East Mt. Hope Avenue--Parking Expansion
The Committee recommends Class A nonconforming status be approved for property
at 1124 East Mt. Hope Avenue subject to screening being installed along the
east property line north of Elmore Street. The Plan to be submitted to,
reviewed and approved by the Planning Division prior to installation.
Ms. LeBlanc so moved and Ms. Monteith seconded; APPROVED
PRD-1-90, 2400-2600 Blocks of Forest Road--North Side
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends this proposed Planned Residential
Development be denied. The Committee believes the proposed development does
not meet the intent of Chapter 1280 of the Planning and Zoning Code.
Ms. LeBlanc moved for denial , supported by Ms. Monteith; discussion followed.
Ms. Horne moved to table this item for Committee consideration, support
given by Mr. Goolsby; HELD IN COMMITTEE
P-1-88, Bel-Air Meadows 12 Subdivision--Recertification
The Committee recommends that the Lansing Planning Board and City Council
recertify the approved final plat of Bel-Air Meadows #2 Subdivision. The
final plat consists of five lots which are proposed to be developed in
accord with an approved Planned Residential Development which allows construc-
tion of one duplex and two fourplex units. Recertification is necessary
because the original approval by the Planning Board and City Council is more
than one year old and the State of Michigan will not accept an approved
final plat that has a time lapse of over one year.
Ms. LeBlanc moved to approve the recertification subject to three standard
stipulations:
Planning Board Minutes
July 17 , 1990
Page 7
1. That the finaLansing plat
Subd bvis developed
lationsall
a d btlhe M improvements
higan St tes required
by the L g
Plat Act.
2. That all necessary easements be provided.
3. That all requirements of responding agencies be met inluding posting of
required security deposits.
Ms. Monteith supported and by a 4 yeas, 1 nay vote, this case was APPROVED
The next meeting of the Zoning and Ordinance Committee will be held
August 15, 1990 at 2:30 p.m. in the Division Conference Room.
Urban Development Committee:
next
Emly Horne reporue�d that
14 t 5 30np.masineld the1n July and City Council heConference1Rooms
scheduled for August
New Business:
The next meeting of the Board will be held Tuesday, August 21, 1990.
Communications:
From ARTHUR C. RADKE, Church of the Resurrection regarding SLU-7-90. We are
very sympathetic to programs that help rehabilitate people and thereby provide
a means for them to become self-sustaining. We do have concerns however.
Currently there is a man from this home who has been found smoking in the
church's toilet and also rummaging through our lost and found articles. We
and vandalism. Also a major concern is
get very concerned about fires
children.
Board Member Comments:
1. The election of officers will be postponed until there is a full Board
in attendance.
2. Helen LeBlanc appuests an roval eU Monteith seconded; ROVED
sabsence the August 21 APP
Ms. Horne moved for and Ms
Planning Board Minutes
July 17, 1990
Page 8
Adjournment:
The regular July 17, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned at
9:17 p.m. 11
Respectfu y submitted --�
Vernon C. Fountain
for
James N. Foulds, Director
Lansing Planning Division
WC
REM LANSING
C1T' CLERK Regular Meeting
BY: LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7 :30 p.m. , Board Room 106
,SO OCT L2n,M �:hge�l District Administration Building
g'�j West Kalamazoo Street
August 21, 1990
Floyd Wright, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. with seven
members present. Ms. Monteith arrived at 8:35 p.m.
Barnhart, Goolsby, Horne, Killips, McNutt, Monteith, Wright
Excused: Helen LeBlanc
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Fountain, Spackman, Ruff
Approval of Agenda: The Election of Officers was moved to item C under New
Business. APPROVED
PUBLIC HEARINGS: Jim Ruff presented the first three cases.
SLU-10-90, 217 North Sycamore Street
CHUCK POSTHUMUS, 245 Madison SE, Grand Rapids, Architect representing Booth
Newspapers. This facility was moved here in 1988 and is used for the staff
that interacts with the State, in terms of gathering news to send out to
Booth Newspapers. This facility has worked out well and they don't see it
expanding. The living room of this 1887 home maintains a conference room.
This parking lot would be used for those conferences without adding cars to
the street. It is at the back of the lot but we will add a landscape buffer
at eye level of anybody walking down the street. The Halfway House does
have an old basketball court in bad repair and we will put a new one at the
north side of the garage so the ball will not run down the hill . We have a
ten year lease with the State with five year options.
Mr. Foulds asked; are you aware of any reclamation responsibilities at the
end of the lease? Mr. Posthumus said, no.
Mr. Foulds: Why did Booth News not look to the existing parking lot on the
south, currently leased by the Womens' Club, instead of going to the north?
Mr. Posthumus; the State is eager to develop that lot for the Womens ' Club,
they are using it as an overflow lot. That was our first choice also.
Mr. Goolsby questioned, What is the frequency, length and number of people
into these meetings? Mr. Posthumus responded; typically half day meetings,
over lunch, they usually allow for driving time, so meet at 10, go through
lunch and then exit at 2:30 or 3 to go back to their papers two or three
times a week. The conference room seats ten to twelve. I believe they have
Planning Board Minutes
August 21 , 1990
Page 2
a staff of eight or nine not counting the roving reporters and all employees
can park outside. They also have a standing lease with the State right
across the street.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
SLU-11-90, East side of 3400 Block of Turner Street
Mr. Ruff clarified, the proposed church would be 235 feet away from the
front property line and would be 30 by 45 feet, about 275 feet total from
the front property line and the parking lot would extend a little further on
the north side. But they would certainly not be using the total lot depth.
SARAH JOHNSON, 4241 Southport, Okemos, trustee and representative for the
Church of God Chapel . We propose constructing a church that would seat
approximately 75 people in the sanctuary and have two rest rooms and a
Pastor's study. In the future we would hope to be able to expand the
building as membership warranted, as well as add a kitchen area and multi-
purpose room. We feel the building will not detract from the area. Membership
should not add much to the traffic flow. Our services would be held twice
weekly in the evenings and also on Sundays so we don't believe that would be
a problem to the area.
SHARON CAIN, 228 West Fairfield, this church will be located in my back
yard. What would the balance of the land be used for? What type of buffer
zone would there be for the homes on Fairfield? The drain field won't
handle more.
Mr. Foulds answered, the Ordinance requires them to provide landscape screening
or buffering between residential properties and the church which would be
worked out between staff and the petitioner. Mr. Foulds acknowledged Turner
Street, nor Fairfield contain storm sewers at this time. Prior to any
development on site storm water retention would have to be developed on this
property or storm sewers provided for the area.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Planning Board Minutes
August 21 , 1990
Page 3
Z-15-90, 2535 East Mt. Hope Avenue A to D 1
JUNE JACOBSON, 301 University Drive, East Lansing. We would like to use
this building for a low density professional office. Five, others in our
practice would move in with us. I am the only full time practitioner. We
will change the neighborhood very little because of traffic. There is one
car coming and going every hour for each practitioner. We plan to change
the appearance of the property as little as possible. We do not want
flashing signs. This would be an ideal location. We would shield the
neighborhood with buffering and attractive plantings. Lighting would be
only for security purposes. We don't have noise, no hazardous products or
activities and do not represent a threat to the neighborhood. Our business
is between 7 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. and generally no weekends. We have a site
plan with ten parking spaces, there is also a two car garage.
GARY TUMA, 2635 East Mt. Hope, which is already a very busy, four lane road
with no shoulder and no sidewalks. The parcel is in the flood plain, there
are no sewers and additional paving would cause additional runoff and flooding
problems. The existing parking spaces are inadequate--I would estimate 15
as a minimum. There is no bus service on Mt. Hope so this business could
only attract people who can drive. Our neighborhood already supports a good
mix of residential and commercial uses. Any more commercial may lead to
overcommercialization and perhaps houses being bought up for rentals.
Surrounding are Crego and Potter Parks, Evergreen Cemetery, Fenner Arboretum,
Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sycamore Golf Course and MSU, so it is a nice park-like
atmosphere. I am afraid more commercial would increased traffic, signage or
additional parking spaces will detract from maintaining that as a recreational
area. Thank you for your time.
ANN CHAPLEY, 2533 Mt. Hope. What will be the future possibilities if this
is rezoned? Mr. Foulds answered, if it were "D-1," the owner could use it
for professional offices, so it will not be restricted to the applicant's
use. However, this would not include commercial or retail sales.
Ms. Chapley continued, when this area was annexed into the City, the residents
were told it was "A" Residential and there were only a few offices. We have
changed a lot. Thank you.
DUANE FOLLICK, owner of 2535 East Mt. Hope. There is no drainage problem on
my property even in the spring. With the double driveway there is plenty of
parking without modifying it. The house has been appraised at $98,000.
Houses in the area are worth $30,000 to $57,000. It would be difficult to
sell as residential because it' s primarily commercial all around. The
Planning Board Minutes
August 21 , 1990
Page 4
commercial is very well maintained. I don't think it would hurt other
properties in the area due to the commercial mix.
JOHN OUDERKIRK, 7031 East State Road, East Lansing. To support what was
said in terms of residential activity and trying to market the property.
The property is valued at quite a bit more than other residential properties.
People who buy residentially would like to have a nice subdivision setting
with sidewalks and safe and quiet. They do not look for a four lane with
headstones in the back yard. The proposed map shows that area to be profes-
sional office use and I also believe it would be the best use for the
property given the situation in the neighborhood. Thank you.
LORI FOLLICK. My husband and I would like to sell our home. At first I was
hesitant about professional office, but I feel these particular people are
interested in retaining a residential look and want to be good neighbors.
There are no sidewalks. We have a very large septic tank that is not hooked
up to public services but that is not needed. And of course when I heard
the words "flood plain" I almost had a heart attack.
Mr. Foulds responded to the question, would a future owner/user be allowed
to erect a new building on the property. The answer is yes, subject to site
plan review, parking and landscaping requirements. Site plan would be by
City Hall staff. No additional approvals would be required.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Planning/Zoning Code Amendments--Presented by Vern Fountain.
Staff is presently in the process of suggesting some amendments to the
Planning and Zoning Code in conjunction with review by the City Attorney.
There are several factors that necessitate some of these changes; the need
to:
A. Provide consistent application and dimensional concepts.
B. Assure appropriate_ treatment for property affected by a governmental
acquisition.
C. Reflect changes in the federal , state and local laws regarding land use
issues; primarily for child day care centers, family day care centers and
group day care centers.
Planning Board Minutes
August 21 , 1990
Page 5
D. Clarify items to more effectively administer the ordinance. We will add
several definitions and change others to add more clear administration of
the Code itself.
E. Identify the Building Safety Division as a major enforcement agent.
A public hearing was held on these changes in November of last year, which
subsequently went through review by an attorney, so we wanted to bring this
back with these updates.
Some of the more significant elements in these amendments consist of;
1. Designating the Building Division as the enforcement agent.
2. Creates definition and categories in group day care homes with 7 to 12
children by special condition and allows facilities of more than 12 children
by special land use.
3. Limitations on height, size and number of detached accessory structures
to 15 feet in all residential districts.
4. Creates a special land use category in the professional office district
which allows neighborhood commercial uses under specified conditions.
5. Permit side yards to range from 0 to 25 feet depending on adjacent uses.
6. Expands industrial districts to permit residential uses by special land
use permit.
7. Expands J parking district to permit retail auto sales by special land
use.
8. Allows continued conforming status for properties which would otherwise
have been nonconforming by governmental action; i .e. , widening South Cedar
Street.
9. Permits barber and beauty salons in the D-1 professional office district
by special land use.
10. Permits one and two family dwellings in mutiple family districts.
11. Permits emergency service operations by special land use in the profes-
sional office district.
12. Clarifies auto maintenance/repair in residential districts.
Planning Board Minutes
August 21, 1990
Page 6
13. Limits the number of autos kept in residential districts.
14. Specifies standards for evaluating issuance of temporary use permits.
Mr. Foulds responded to the question, who generates the idea for changes?
The process can begin from several sources; court case where language seems
not specifically defined, requested clarification in a definition or interpre-
tation currently in an ordinance, from Council , staff or an individual citizen,
professional national recommendations that would benefit staff, or certainly
from Board members or staff to benefit the community whether it's due process
or a technical issue that needs to be revised. The list reviewed this
evening contained all of those.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Comments from the Audience:
BRUCE COOK, 2925 North Grand River. I am currently trying to purchase
property at 2431 Forest Road and am interested in PRD-1-90. Mr. Fountain
explained, we held a public hearing approximately two months ago. A lot of
comments were made. The developer took that into consideration and has
since submitted a revised plan, which we intend to hold a public hearing on
at the September 18, 1990 meeting.
A brief recess was taken by the Board.
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Goolsby moved to approve the July 17, 1990 minutes and Mrs. Horne
supported; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Merle Barnhart, Chairman
Z-13-90, 3405 North East Street - A to G-2
The Committee recommends that the request to rezone 3405 North East Street
from "A" Residential to "G-2" Wholesale District be approved subject to two
Planning Board Minutes
August 21, 1990
Page 7
stipulations:
1. Landscape, screening and buffering be placed along the west property
line.
2. Improvements be made to the driveway and parking areas including hard
surfacing, drainage and striping of the parking spaces. A site plan
showing these improvements must be submitted to the City for review and
approval of relevant agencies .
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. Monteith seconded; APPROVED
Z-14-90, 3818 South Cedar Street A, F and J to F
The Committee recommends approval of the request for rezoning of 3818 South
Cedar Street from "A" Residential , "F" Commercial and "J" Parking Districts
to "F" Commercial District, with the understanding that landscape screening
and buffering will be installed along the west property line where the site
abuts a residential use and further, that the dumpster be located away from
the existing residential development with screening as required by Code.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval ; support given by Ms. Monteith; APPROVED
Z-10-90B, 1020 East Saginaw Street D-1 to F
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends that the request to rezone
property west of and adjacent to 1020 East Saginaw Street from "D-1" Profes-
sional Office to "F" Commercial District be approved, with the understanding
that the required landscape screening and buffering will be installed where
property abuts residential areas and parking areas will be fully improved.
This will include a drainage plan by the Public Service Department prior to
development.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. Monteith supported; APPROVED
SLU-8-90, 1015/1017 North Cedar Street
The Committee recommends denial of the request for a special land use for
the property located at 1015/1017 North Cedar Street to establish an open
storage yard for recyclable products.
Planning Board Minutes
August 21, 1990
Page 8
Mr. Barnhart moved for denial subject to the nine items specifically
considered, as included in the August 15 Committee Report. Ms. Monteith
seconded; DENIED
NCU-14-90, 1923 Teel Avenue--Restoration
The Committee recommends that the request for Class A nonconforming status
for property located at 1923 Teel Avenue be approved, providing that the
alterations are completed within one (1) year of the date of approval .
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. Monteith supported; APPROVED
Z-4-88/SLU-3-88, 5400 Block South Waverly Road HELD IN COMMITTEE
PRD-1-90, 2400-2600 Blocks North Side of Forest Road
A revised site plan submitted was significantly changed to warrant further
investigation. Therefore, we are scheduling a new hearing for September 18,
1990.
The next meeting will be held September 12 at 2:30 p.m. in the Division
Conference Room.
Urban Development Committee: Garry Goolsby, Chairman
Act-16-90, 401 Jones Street
This is a request by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mapes of 401 Jones Street to erect a
four foot chain link fence into the Kalamazoo Street right-of-way to provide
extra rear yard space. The Committee recommends the request be approved
subject to three conditions:
1. The fence remain at least two feet from the sidewalk.
2. The property owner be responsible for removing the fence and restoring
the right-of-way whenever the City declares its need for the ROW land.
3. The Public Service Department issue a license to the Mapes ' authorizing
this use of ROW as described.
Mr. Goolsby moved for approval and Ms. Horne seconded; APPROVED
Planning Board Minutes
August 21, 1990
Page 9
Act-20-90, Fine Park
This is a request by Francis Fine to exchange land in Glenburne for park
land adjacent to the Grand River. Mr. Fine proposes to develop a new
residential community and desires to have direct access and use of a portion
of the park land that adjoins the Grand River. The Committee recommends
that the request be refused, however, that Mr. Fine be encouraged to proceed
with the proposed residential development and . the City commit to coordinate
with him for use and joint improvements such as pathway or a dock in the
park area.
Mr. Goolsby moved to refuse the request, but the City work to coordinate
with this development; Ms. McNutt supported; APPROVED
Act-21-90, North East Street
This is a request to vacate the right-of-way on North East Street between
Shiawassee Street and Michigan Avenue. The Urban Development Committee
recommends that the right-of-way be vacated to the City and to Clara's
Restaurant. Utility easements are to be maintained and the ConRail and
Chessy track is also to remain in place as an easement.
Mr. Goolsby so moved and Ms. Killips supported; APPROVED
Act-24-90, Elvin Court and Horton Street, North of Jerome Street
This is a request to retain these streets, which lead into the entrance to
the Marshall Street Armory, as closed streets at the State Armory property.
The Committee recommends that both Horton and Elvin be gated and closed to
through traffic.
Mr. Goolsby so moved and Ms. McNutt seconded; APPROVED
Act-26-90, Washtenaw, between Pine and Sycamore, and Sycamore Street,
from Kalamazoo to Allegan Street -
This is a request for streets in the Capitol complex to transfer ownership
to build a_ 4200 car parking ramp. The Committee was .concerned about the
traffic flow for that area. There will be three entryways from Pine Street
into the parking ramp and exits will be on Sycamore with no left hand turn
during rush hour periods.
Planning Board Minutes
August 21 , 1990
Page 10
It is recommended by the Committee that ownership of Washtenaw Street between
Pine and Sycamore Street and Sycamore Street between Kalamazoo and Allegan
Streets be transferred to the State as requested. It is further recommended
that all utility easements be maintained until such time as distribution and
main lines are relocated or discontinued, and finally, that the State and
City both be included in any street improvements or change in plans for
these streets as they affect local circulation patterns.
Mr. Goolsby so moved and Ms. Horne supported; APPROVED
The next meeting of the Urban Development Committee will be held on
September 11, 1990 in the Planning Division Conference Room at 5:30
p.m.
NEW BUSINESS:
1) September 4 Meeting
Mr. Goolsby moved that no meeting be held on September 4 for the Holiday;
Ms. Horne supported; APPROVED
2) Election of Officers
Ms. McNutt moved to elect Emly Horne Chairman of the Lansing Planning Board
and Mr. Barnhart supported; APPROVED
Ms. Killips moved to elect Floyd Wright as Vice Chairman of the Board and
Ms. Monteith seconded; APPROVED
Adjournment:
The regular Lansing Planning Board meeting of August 21, 1990 adjourned at
10:30 p.m.
Respectfully bmitt d,
am N. Foul s , Director
L sing Planning Division
WC
regular Meeting
Cy. LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:-30 p`� m—,Board Room 106
Lan sS09DL'�ho�l [�itUr—Administration Building
5 9 Welt`1Ca azoo Street
September 18, 1990
Emiy Horne, Chairman, convened the meeting promptly at 7 :30 p.m. with six
members present;
Barnhart, Goolsby, Horne, LeBlanc, Monteith, Wright
Excused Absences: Mr. Wright moved for an excused absence for Ms. Killips
and Ms. McNutt; seconded by Ms. LeBlanc, APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Fountain, Spackman, Love, Coscarelli
PUBLIC HEARINGS: Jim Spackman, Deputy Director presented the Act cases.
Act-13-90, 1000/1100 Blocks of West Washtenaw Street at Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr. Blvd./Logan Street
The Michigan Department of Transportation is the petitioner and was not repre-
sented this evening.
ED ECKERT, 450 West Street, on the City/State Planning Committee of the
Westside Neighborhood Association. We ask that replacement of the pedestrian
overpass on King Boulevard go beyond the technical reports, engineering design
or even cost estimate of the project, and go to the issue of what impacts the
loss would have on people who live, work and walk in that area. People,
especially children and mobility impaired need the overpass. I am sure you
do not expect it to reduce vehicle traffic, nor will it slow it down--probably
facilitate its speed. Construction of the Capitol Loop itself will have a
negative impact on our neighborhood and would be an irresponsible position to
ignore the fact that people are still living and walking in that area. We
all need that overpass. It' s likely that reestablishment of that overpass
will need barrier free design. So don't suggest that it is too great a cost,
it' s a State law. Thank you.
JOHN GRANT, Special Services Supervisor for the Lansing School District, in
charge of safety for the district. I would like to read into the record a
letter from Lee Mason, our Deputy Superintendent for Support Services to Beth
E. London, Principal Traffic Engineer for the City of Lansing Public Service
Department, which states the position of the Lansing School District in regard
to the replacement of this skywalk. Upon examining our records and the
information you provided on the proposed removal of the skywalk at Martin
Lutner King Jr. Boulevard at Washtenaw Street, we must take the position that
the skywalk should be replaced after the project to widen Martin Luther King
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 2
Jr. Boulevard is completed. We have a limited number of secondary students
who use this skywalk going to and from Sexton High School and/or to and from
bus stops in the area. We have had co miersations witch the neighborhood which
indicate that Riddle Elementary School and the Kingsley Center complex are a
neighborhood focal point to social and athletic activities. The presence of
this area provides a positive social outlet for youth in the neighborhood.
The availability of a skywalk at Washtenaw Street allows safe and easy access
to those residents on the east side of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. who wish
to use this area. The Lansing School District has always taken the position
that the safety of youth in our community, is a priority. Retaining the
skywalk . . . . . . . provides a safe crossing for young people who are enroute to
school or social activities in the community. Thus, we must encourage and
support the replacement of the skywalk after . . . . Boulevard has been widened. "
Thank you very much.
Mr. Barnhart questioned, is this under the control of the state and we are
merely facilitating the process for them?
Jim Foulds responded, the City of Lansing was requested a public hearing by
Michigan Department of Transportation on this issue. This frequently occurs
on a State trunkline and we are channeling that input through the Board and
to Council to take back to the State so they can make a decision.
REFERRED TO URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Act-19-90, 800 Block East Kalamazoo Street
TOM PARKER, petitioner, is not present.
Floyd Wright asked, does this alley extend completely from South Hosmer to
South Pennsylvania? Mr. Spackman said yes, and has access off both Pennsylvania
and Hosmer. It is a two lane through way, with access to garages.
BERNICE MASON, 703 North Francis Street, owns and operates Mason Body Shop at
812 East Kalamazoo Street. I am in opposition to any part of the alley being
closed between Pennsylvania and Hosmer Street. Closing the alley would be
devastating to our family business. Our primary work area is only accessible
from the alley (submitted pictures of the situation) . If the alley would be
vacated as proposed, it would be impossible to get cars in and out and we
would be forced to end our business that has been in operation in the same
place for SO years. We have two full time employees , one of whom is here
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 3
tonight. I have petitions bearing 117 signatures from neighbors, customers
and business associates who wish the alley to remain open (submitted) . I
also ;lave a letter from Bruce Kruger, owner of 908 Ea-st Kalamazoo, who is
protesting. The alley is an asset to twenty or more property owners in this
area. It is paved and in good condition. It is also essential for police
and fire accessibility to this entire area.
Communications were received from:
Mitchell and Arlene Powers , 800/804/810 E Kazoo in support
Alan Martin, owner of Quality Dairy Company, opposed to the closing.
Charlene Warner, owner of 823 Hickory
Mrs. Mobrato, owner of 911 Hickory
Sybil Monroe, attorney representing Ms. Endibroth at 834 East Kalamazoo deeply
concerned about a barricade or people using her property and concern about a
turnaround place.
ED KAPALLA, 907 Hickory. At first I thought it would be all right to keep
some people and traffic out of the alley, but the fact that it would become
secluded and that Quality Dairy is at the end and open 24 hours a day, it
would be a good place to hide, drink and loiter problems during the night.
So we don' t want it closed. If lots on the west end are cleared, the
building would have an impact on Hickory Street, as well as Kalamazoo and
Hosmer. We would like to keep Hickory Street with less traffic. I have a
few signatures of people that would be directly affected by the traffic that
would be created by this building (submitted to Spackman) and also some
thoughts of my own.
GARY CALKINS, owner of 831 Hickory, and I am opposed. It would preclude me
from entering the back of my lot, where I intend to place a garage. Thank
you.
REFERRED TO URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Z-16-90, 6541 Rosedale Road A to C--Presented by Eleanor Love.
JOHN COOLEY, 6541 Rosedale Road. I propose to lease this property to a lady
who would operate it as an adult care foster home for three elderly ladies ,
wno do not need mercy care, but are not able to take care of themselves. I
nave known the person who would like to lease it, so I am confident the
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 4
property would receive the kind of care that I would give it as the owner.
Since it's adjacent to the Edgewood Living Center and we are only proposing
three elderly people, it seems it would have a minimum impact on the
neighborhood. The reason for rezoning is the manager will be making it her
home full time and she requested I provide her with a small kitchen and
private bath. I would construct a two car garage with three possible parking
locations. Thank you for your attention.
TONI ZUBRICK, 6523 Rosedale Road. The street is older and filled with families
living there for many years. My opposition is simple; first, you have an
entire neighborhood that is family. Secondly, next to the affected building
that Mr. Cooley intends to rezone is a vacant lot currently for sale by a
local realtor. Mr. Cooley's is also for sale. He has been unable to sell
this ever since we have been in the neighborhood. My concern is if this is
rezoned for adult foster care, it is possible that the vacant lot next to it
could be purchased to build a duplex or small apartment complex that would
affect the street, the living conditions of the family and neighbors directly
involved with the property. The retirement home has never presented a problem
to Rosedale residents because there is no exit, no excessive street traffic
and is well taken care of. The basic concern is the rezoning. We feel that
invites other developers to come in and rezone and put commercial or other
residential areas that could affect the well being of our families , our
children and older residents. I and my husband are opposed. Thank you.
DORIS LARKINS, 6500 Rosedale Road. I am very much opposed to this because we
have been a single family and street of retired people. We fought the
retirement home because we were never informed of it, but the entrance was
moved further down the street so we did not have full access into the retirement
home off our street. Plus they also changed Sawyer without any knowledge to
us . The same thing with Mr. Cooley has been brought up without any knowledge
to the neighborhood and I don't think that' s right. We are afraid this kind
of development will continue.
Mrs. JAY PATRICK, 6529 Rosedale. I do not want it changed from "A" to "C"
because we are one family homes and close neighbors and I know my late
husband would want it left that way.
RUTHETA STEVENSON, 6517 Rosedale Road objects because of concern with main-
taining integrity and continuity of the neighborhood as single family;
definitely opposed to an adult foster care facility. The Edgewood Living
Center is not really a part of the neighborhood. All main entrances are off
of Edgewood Boulevard, along with all the businesses. This is an enclosed
single family neighborhood. Rentors do not keep up the property like owners
would. Thank you.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 5
PEGGY GILLETTE, proposed operator of the foster care home. I can understand
the neighbors ' concern. This did not go on without their knowledge, it was
up to me to talk to the neighbors and I didn't think there would be any
opposition. The home would not be changed whatsoever. I guess we petitioned
because I want the kitchenette upstairs. To the ladies moving is traumatic.
This would be a long term lease because the cannot be moved. If their
concern is it ever being sold for an apartment building--it wouldn't. The
lot next door is very small and I doubt anything would go in beside a
resident home. I would like to apologize to the neighbors that I didn't get
to them before this letter came out to tell them what I had in mind.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-17-90, 3030 South Cedar Street A to F Presented by Eleanor Love
MARK HUNT, 228 West Hodge Avenue. When I checked into buying this property,
the Planning Division said I would have to get commercial zoning. This is to
operate a motorcycle shop and sell parts and accessories.
DINA PERRY, 3020/3022 South Cedar Street, right next door. This is the House
of Canine Cosmetology and three apartments above. All of the bedrooms are
along the alley where the shop would be. Repair is one of my concerns. I
have tenants right above the shop and they have had incidents in the middle
of the morning of loud activity down there and I prefer they run regular
business hours for noise control and not repair motorcycles at 3 a.m. Before
I bought the building there was trouble and police were there constantly.
The tenants upstairs when I rented it were horrible. It has nice tenants now
and we would like it to be safe for people who go into the school even at 9
p.m. Also I have concerns from a neighbor in opposition (submitted) . I
would also like to know what kind of people are going to be loitering.
Mr. Fountain reported, the property maintains a nonconforming status. The
use Mr. Hunt proposes requires commercial and would require more controls;
screening and buffering adjacent to residential and minor repair, which must
be conducted in a closed building. So outside activities should be more
controlled.
LEANN SUITOR, tenant upstairs. Previously there has been disturbance at one
or two in the morning. I attend school and we need sleep at night. Thank
you.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 6
DAVE GOFF, 330 East Hodge. What is the regulation on screening and buffering?
Mr. Fountain explained, we will review that upon final submission of the site
plan. It can consist of plant material , a fence or setbacks of five to ten
feet and would take place concurrently with the development of the property.
HELEN WOODREL, 410 Paris Avenue, communicated objection.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
The balance of the hearings were presented by Vern Fountain.
Z-18-90, 233/235 North Pine Street DM-4 to D-2 and
Z-19-90, 229 North Pine Street DM-4 to D-2
CHARLES CREAMER, Senior Vice President of Michigan Retailers Association, an
organization that represents some 3500 small and independent retailers through-
out the State and has made Lansing its home for the last 20 some years . I
would like to speak to both cases. We have recently purchased three homes
directly adjacent to our building at 221 North Pine. In the past five years
we have invested some million dollars in that neighborhood. Very candidly,
we are looking to make an improvement in the neighborhood and safeguard the
investment we have made. We are attempting to compile the three adjacent
properties and put together a residential/professional complex that' s co-
ordinated to be an asset to downtown Lansing. We are planning and have
submitted architectural drawings for this residential/professional complex.
The Master Plan allows for D-1 along Pine Street, our organization firmly
believes that a better use for these properties would be for a mixed use of
residential on the second floor and professional on the first.
We have experience in this , we just recently renovated a property at 615 West
Ionia Street, which was the third property I referred to, which we are currently
renting to tenants on the third and second floors and a professional use on
the first floor and this is working out very well . We have already invested
some $20,000 in the property on the corner and made considerable improvement
which we are pleased by. We will be spending another $20,000 on that structure
and the one next door within the next thirty days.
If approved by the City, we are planning to spend $50,000 on the site plan
which will allow a complex coordinated look among the four parcels of property.
We have hired a landscape architect who has investigated the time frame in
which these properties were built; most in the late 1800 's and are coordinated
a scheme representing the time period in which they were built. We expect
that to be completed this spring.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 7
We would appreciate if you put us on the agenda later for favorable action in
what we think is a straightforward matter, which has also been endorsed by
the Downtown Neighborhood Association. We have a tenant that has made a
commitment for October 1 on the corner building. They have to be out of
their present facility by October 1 and it's very important to us to have
that major association tenant on the corner to allow us to truly finalize
this project that we have started in the last few weeks. The lease allows
for the immediate completion of the project. We would appreciate your action.
We are committed to continuance of being a good neighbor in downtown Lansing.
Communication was received from SHARON KELLOGG, President of the Downtown
Neighborhood Association, stating that a poll of those in attendance at last
meeting which revealed support for the proposed rezoning.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-20-90, 4722 North Grand River Avenue H/J and A to H
Ms. LeBlanc asked, do they need industrial zoning for the parking and sign?
Mr. Fountain reported, not necessarily. We can handle that through a possible
change of zoning to a lighter commercial use, which would allow both the sign
and the parking. Presently there are two points of ingress/egress and then
off to either side is open space.
PAT BASGALL, Operations Manager for the Car Quest Distribution Center located
at this property. We recently acquired a small section of this property that
was a residential home. We intend to leave a grassy area with bushes as a
barrier. Parking for automobiles would be quite a way set back from the
road, consistent with parking we have now. We intend to move it further to
the east to allow easy passage of freight traffic and for our shipping docks .
Right now we are parking in the center of that area and it' s quite congested.
It is not our intention to destroy the effects of the ecology, merely concen-
trate on keeping that a natural frontage on Grand River.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
PRD-1-90. 2400-2600 Blocks of Forest Road
WAYNE MAGEE, 1105 Palmer Lane, East Lansing, representing the petitioner,
Warren Coon. After several meetings with Forest Road, Parks and Recreation
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 8
we developed this new proposal . We agreed to different restrictions to as
best we could meet the needs of people in the surrounding area. We have
agreed to restrict development from the 75 foot boundary lines next to Fenner
Arboretum and in specific areas within the project to meet concerns about
ground water runoff. We are restricting the size of buildings to two and
three unit developments. We are using side load garages as often as we can
to make these look less like multiple units. We are also creating two
separate elevations for each type of unit on the property. We are also going
to develop these units so any combination of units can go together in any
building. So we can have a building that has a three bedroom, a two bedroom
and a one bedroom, or three of the same. With that we think we can take the
curse off a multiple development in the area. It will tend to look more like
individual houses and they won't all look the same. I 've got a photo that is
a close intent to what we will do (submitted) . Mr. Coon is permitted to
develop his property. The issue is not whether this is going to happen or
nothing, it's what is going to be developed.
Attached housing allows us flexibility to meet concerns of people in the
area. The Fenner people do not want us next to them. The people concerned
about Forest Road beauty don't want us close to Forest Road. We have concerns
about ground water runoff and we have to donate territory to do that. The
only way we can accommodate in a meaningful manner the concerns of people
around us is to get the units away from everybody. I know the endorsement of
the area is to establish a subdivision of 20 to 22 lots. It's not economically
feasible. Once we work on the development of the land, we would be forced to
sell a unit in the $225,000 range and given the area and attached housing
that already exists, we don't think that's feasible.
There are only two choices to develop the property; either classic subdivision
development style--60 by 100 foot lot, and we could run in 42 of those. The
issue is not density, it' s trying to meet concerns of the people. If we go
to a 42 unit subdivision, I don 't know if we can address those concerns.
Attached housing that allows us flexibility to save the natural beauty of
this land and help calm everybody down.
LEONA GOOD, 3061 Sandhill Road, Mason, President of the Board of Fenner
Arboretum. Fenner Arboretum is a park dedicated to the study of nature,
including nature' s peace and quiet. It is used by about 10,000 children per
year, plus families who come in to picnic and walk. We are opposed to high
density housing or any other noisy enclave which is detrimental to the atmos-
phere of the park and its function as a nature study area.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 9
JAN KOLP, 2828 Forest Road, Chairman of Forest Road Task Force. We feel
living on Forest Road is the closest to living in the country that you can
get and still be in the city. To uphold this image we have worked with the
City in getting our road as the first scenic corridor of the State of Michigan.
The issue here is conforming to the existing neighborhood. Mr. Magee presented
his newest plan. The Association voted unanimously as first choice to support
the Parks and Recreation Five Year Plan to purchase all eleven plus acres to
become a part of Fenner Arboretum. That not happening, our second choice
would be that the land be developed to accommodate single family homes compar-
able in size to those presently along Forest Road. Our Association has not
changed our feeling on this. Thank you.
JERRY RIGGS, 3312 South Deerfield, representing Boy Scout Troop 137, with an
active membership of more than 30 scouts who regularly use Fenner Arboretum
for their nature study, hiking, camping, meetings , and Fenner abuts the north
side of this proposed project. We strenuously oppose PRD-1-90. We feel it
would equal a holocaust to the wildlife there. It is not an acceptable
concession to reduce the number of units to 46 or to move the buildings 75
feet away from the fence line. Eight units or 46 units , 15 feet or 75 feet
notwithstanding, the construction of these multiple dwellings is an encroachment
on the balance of nature of the Arb and along Forest Road, a mar on the
scenic corridor. Thank you.
Comments :
CLIFFORD AND HAZEL RAYMOND, 2726 Manley Drive, protesting the development. A
mixture of living units is not in keeping with the neighborhood. Building
should be single family on a lot size comparable to other lots in the area.
KEN SALZMAN, 1531 West Ionia Street, user of Fenner Arboretum, objects because
it would be a negative impact. The Arboretum should remain the preserve it
has been and this development would detract from that.
CARL HAUSSMAN, 6000 Delta River Drive
RICK BRIGHAM, 1115 Prospect.
MARGE FARHBACH, 1906 Holly Way.
MARK TERPSTRA, 1115 Prospect.
DAVID OSTENDORF, 2723 Aurora Drive. In reference to your case PRD-1-90. I
am opposed to the construction of condominium units. Development would even-
tually ruin our real estate values in our area. I believe it is more
desiraDle for single family in our area and could lead to the rise of such
technical problems as sanitary sewer back up, from which we currently enjoy
freedom. I ask this be denied.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 10
DELORES MAIDLOW, 2806 Forest Road, President of Forest View Citizens
Association. We are unanimously against multi-unit development in the 2400,
2500 and 2600 blocks of Forest Road. The Park Board originally asked for a
200 foot buffer zone between the development and the Park. The Park Board
backed down from this to 75 feet. We find it ludicrous that the citizens of
Lansing are more protective of the park system than the Park Board themselves.
The synagogue on the corner of Forest and Aurelius has authorized me to speak
for them; they are against multi-unit development of this property and the
increase in traffic it would bring. Thank you.
LEN STUTTMAN, 2331 Forest Road. The Planning Department has worked with area
citizens in formulating three development plans. In every case these plans
designate our area for single family units, in keeping with the character and
harmony of the surrounding neighborhood. Developers are in business for
money. They exploit the land for maximum advantage and then move on. Mr.
Magee stated the price and quality of development is commensurate with what
is perceived as the quality of the neighborhood. He indicated we could never
stand up to the quality of East Lansing or .Okemos neighborhoods. "We are
captive to our own history. " In the past we have met the demands of developers,
have complied with Codes that dictated duplexes in areas assigned to single
family units . The intent of that code may have been noble, but in reality we
have too many duplexes with absentee owners. We participate in neighborhood
planning but final decisions are not with us, they are with the Planning
Board and City Council . Commissioners and Councilpersons come and go, but
the citizens remain. We stand firm with your comprehensive plan of development
as approved by previous Planning Boards and sanctioned by previous City
Councils.
We would like to further urge that the Planning Board recommend that the City
Council direct the Department of Parks and Recreation to move hastily to
fulfill their charge as directed in Lansing Parks and Recreation Master Plan
of April 5, 1990, to take whatever steps are necessary to purchase that
property with a aplomb and alacrity. Thank you.
JENNIFER GOOD, 3061 Sandhill , Mason. As a teacher, we use Fenner Arboretum
and greatly appreciate the quiet, natural environment. I am concerned about
the continued quality of the educational experience for children if the proposed
development is approved. All children should have experience with open natural
areas . The development on this site should not be allowed to pollute by
sight, sound or possible trespass the only large natural site in the City of
Lansing. Thank you.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 11
DAVID VILLEGAS, 2525 Forest Road. The area is so beautiful that my family
has never had opportunity to see some of the animals that come over from
Fenner. When Mr. Pearson sold me the property his wishes were that there be
single family homes in there.
RALPH ABENROTH, 2520 Forest Road. They want to turn our country into a
developing city, which I think is wrong. I would like to see the Master Plan
abided by because it does not allow for the development of condominiums and
so forth. Let's keep our community as it is .
GARY SEMER, 127 South Hayford, representing over 1200 members of the Sierra
Club in the capitol area. I want to testify on behalf of the precious
resource of Fenner Arboretum. We feel any significant development adjoining
the Arboretum permanently alters and degrades it. We urge you to consider
the forethought of those who established it, the thousands who enjoy it
today, the contribution that Arboretum makes to the quality of living in this
area. Please consider future pressures that will come to bear on this resource.
We strongly urge you to deny this request. Please take the steps you can to
have this land protected and purchased. Thank you.
ARTHUR GOOD, 201 Corbin, Mason, representing the current owners. I am the
realtor who listed the properties, but have not negotiated the sale. I have
two separate properties listed with the Kussmaul 's and Pearson's. Mr. Coon
is the owner through a contract to purchase. Mr. Magee has done everything
possible to adhere to community wishes. My first recollection of Forest Road
is 1946 when my uncle, Byron Good, moved to the McAllen Farm, which then
consisted of 25 acres. I remember Mr. McAllen's reaction when property began
developing around him around the mid 40's and early 50's on Forest Road. I
can remember a park with rides that was privately owned on the north side of
Forest Road. I can remember a lot of open space and a lot of good times , but
I can also remember as growth came to this community dogs and kids chasing
and killing sheep because they thought it was fun. So some of the pioneers
of Forest Road who have since passed on; Jack and Laura McAllen, Mr. and Mrs.
Sam Street Hughes, the Pearson' s and the Kussmaul 's of course are still
living but those folks maintained and paid taxes on this property and provided
an environment for the people who moved to that community that was second to
none.
Quite frankly, on their behalf, the time has come for them to reap the
benefits of the sacrifice they made to this community. What has been proposed,
complies completely with the topography. It complies with the requests of
the Arboretum and very compatibly with the scenic route that Forest Road has
been designated as. I have always been taught that to control your environment
is to honor it. The time and money has been spent to maintain this environment
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 12
long enough. It' s time that this group act as it must, in compliance with
the laws and under the development plan that has been requested to move
forward for the recommendation for approval of this low density attached
single family housing project. Thank you very much.
CAROL WILLINGHAM, 1629 Pontchartrain, Okemos , the daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Pearson, sellers of part of the property. I have listened to the neighbors '
concerns. My parents and I have written letters to you. I want to second a
few of Mr. Good's comments. I have heard many comments of the nonconformance
of detached housing to the neighborhood and I know there are duplexes across
the street on the Levitt property and there are apartments less than a half
mile to the west and east and I don't see how this can be considered non-
conforming under those circumstances. I can appreciate the concerns about
Fenner Arboretum.
When I was a child Fenner Arboretum was not even a public park. I remember
going in probably hoping to form some of the trails that are there now, but I
don't think my parents should have to go on supporting this park and paying
taxes on the property because no one wants to see it change. I have also
heard other people express that my parents did not want the property to
develop into multiple housing; and that's true, it was not their first desire.
They had an offer from Mr. Mulder who did all the duplexes across the street,
which was very good financially, but my Mother was very much opposed to this
and they turned his offer down. They have not been able to sell the property
for single family housing development. So they accepted Mr. Coon 's offer and
it seems to me that most of the concerns expressed have been met. I appreciate
your time and concern in listening to my thoughts . Thank you.
LEN STUTTMAN, Arthur you talked about McAllen; when he was ready to sell his
property, he said that if he had any way of putting that into a park, he
would do it. The Association went to the City and that is a park there. He
paid his taxes, but also helped to maintain the quality of life in that
neighborhood and we want to continue that. Miss Pearson if your parents were
to obtain financial recompense without development, would you and they be
satisfied? The answer was, I think so.
Comments from the Audience:
1. CHUCK POSTHUMUS, Architect representing Booth Newspapers. We had a
meeting with the Zoning and Ordinance Committee and there were some concerns .
We have reduced the size of the parking lot and addressed some of those
concerns.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 13
2. TOM GILLGER, representing Edward Rose and Sons, the builders and owners
of Waverly Park Apartments. Regarding Z-4-88 and SLU-3-88; we have a large
number of people here who have valid concerns about the petition. Concerns
as far as the integrity of the neighborhood being changed to accommodate a
mobile home facility. We feel our property values will be adversely affected.
That is supported by an independent survey the City did. We would like to
express opposition and hope it does not receive a favorable response.
3. JUNE JACOBSON, 301 University Drive, East Lansing, regarding Z-15-90,
2535 East Mt. Hope. I want to respond to concerns about who we might sell to
if we were to receive the rezoning. We are five couselors; two of us in our
very early sixties and three in their mid to late thirties. The best characteri-
zation you could make of us may be, what did we do last winter? I was off
hiking in Nova Scotia, one on a Canadian woods canoe trip, another on an a
Canadian island, one on a home improvement project and the other having a
baby. In terms of our values, we care very deeply about the beauty and
spaciousness of the property. In our plans the two of us who are older want
to retire within the next ten to fifteen years and the younger people plan to
assume the property for another 10 to 15 years. That would assure stability.
Two of us have been cited by East Lansing for our service to the community.
We care deeply about the people around us and are sensitive to how people
feel and that would not change in terms of this property. Thank you very
much.
4. RICK BRIGHAM, 1115 Prospect. I oppose the Z-15-90 rezoning. I don't
feel it's appropriate to rezone. Down the road at some point this could be a
catastrophe. The zoning stays and I could see it going into the wrong hands
at some point and that would not be good. Thank you.
5. ANDREW SASS, representing the applicant on Z-4-88 and SLU-3-88. The
occupancy level of a prior development is not a proper zoning consideration.
This matter was heard before the Zoning and Ordiannce Committee who based
their decision on a 1988 report, which is outdated and has inaccuracies in
the number of residential units per acre. The density in the planned develop-
ment is less than five units per acre. Currently, if it was developed as
single family houses, it could develop seven. There is additional space
being dedicated to open space, which puts the density at less than four units
per acre. There is no viable reason to deny this mobile home park. Thank
you.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 14
6. JIM HINE, 3919 Truxton Lane, regarding Z-4 and SLU-3-88. We had a lot of
concerns about traffic and sewage and I hope you will review all the materials
we had previously. We don't even want a Kensington Meadows in there. You
drive through the trailer park and it's not kept up very well . It doesn't
keep with the Master Plan.
6. JOHN FITZPATRICK, 3019 Plymouth Drive. I own four acres of property on
Waverly Road adjacent to this new mobile home park. (SLU-3-88 case) I am
opposed to it because I know mobile home parks do not fold up and die. I
have a $400,000 investment and I don't want it to deteriorate. But if this
is in there, the kids get bussed from Dimondale Elementary School and to Holt
Junior and High Schools. It will affect the school system. Waverly Road
cannot handle it. This property is within Lansing city limits and I cannot
get the City to give me electricity. We are in Eaton County and if these
people expect light from the City of Lansing, I want it first. Thank you.
7. GERALD HUCKABA, 5410 South Waverly. This trailer park doesn't help the
community. It will add traffic that Waverly can't handle and also the sewers.
When they ran sewers , they were going to have me down for one day. It's been
over two years and I still don't have my property back up to where it was.
If the trailer park goes in, am I going to have to pay a third time for a
sewer? Where is the sewer going? They can't put it through to the right
side; it's too costly. If they put it on the west side, I 'll have to pay
again. I am against the trailer park very heavily. Thank you.
8. MARTHA LOPEZ, 3920 Truxton Lane. I am here to oppose SLU-3-88. We have
two young daughters and are looking for their best interests. For the future
it is unfair for those of us paying extremely high taxes to have a mobile
home park in and have it depreciate us. We lack in activities for our
children and this is not getting ahead. You have to give us a chance. Thank
you.
9. DEAN PATTERSON, 1519 Marcy Road, regarding Z-4-88 and SLU-3-88. I own
5420 and 5424 South Waverly and spend quite a bit of money fixing these
houses up. I saw the other trailer park and it is a mess. If this one is
going to be anything like that, I am against it. Thank you.
10. DIANE BENNETT, 5812 Granary in Waverly Meadows , a new subdivision. I
think I can speak for all my neighbors when I say we are opposed to the
development of the proposed mobile home park (SLU-3-88) . We feel there is no
need for this. This is a decent quiet, safe neighborhood and I plan to be
there a long time. Mobile home parks have a social stigma attached to them
and will never equal an existing home on a foundation. This is not what we
want in our neighborhood. Waverly is two lanes and will not accommodate the
traffic. I think I would consider moving if this mobile home park is put in.
Thank you.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 15
11. JOHN OUDERKIRK, 7031 East State Road, East Lansing, regarding Z-15-90.
There was a Committee meeting at which it seemed a surprise to some to
discover this is in the City' s future use plan. The City did a lot of
planning to designate certain areas for certain uses. They expect citizens
to abide by that plan. The proposal is within the guidelines of that Plan,
which clearly calls for professional office use on this land. Questions were
raised about sewage disposal , storm drainage, traffic count and future use.
It is my feeling and I am sure there is a consensus , that a family of five
who would normally occupy a four bedroom colonial home such as this would
have greater needs on the sewer and septic systems than a professional office
building.
The storm water was addressed in the site plan. There is a dry well proposed
and engineering is sufficient. The petitioner is willing to comply in every
way to make sure no ground water runs onto adjoining properties. Traffic
count is a problem for residential use. Most people think of a low traffic
count as good for a residential neighborhood and they also think of a high
traffic count as good for business for economic reasons. This is a medium to
high traffic count area. I have also had an open house today. In the event
we did not receive the rezoning, I solicited other realtors to find a prospec-
tive buyer for a residential use and asked for their comments which I have
(submitted to Board) . A few are; the highest and best use should be commercial ,
this area is increasingly used for business purposes. Not many people would
be interested in living that close to a cemetery and monument store, but it
wouldn't matter for an office building. Office price $90,000; residential ,
$70,000. Obviously the value of the property being used as residential is
not only inconsistent with the 1990 Plan, but also an economic detriment to
itself. The photographs presented at the last public hearing were good to
show what the property itself looked like, but not good at showing the impact
of surrounding uses. At this time 50% or greater are business uses. There
should be a lot of consideration given. I hope you would use this information
in your considerations. Thank you very much.
Regarding Z-15-90, 2535 East Mt. Hope Avenue, a communication was received
from:
DOUGLAS SCALIA, Mt. Hope Monument Company, 2529 East Mt. Hope, with no objec-
tions because there are similar uses in the area on Mt. Hope.
GARY TUMA, 2635 East Mt. Hope. I don' t think this rezoning is in keeping
with the setting in the area and any more commercial or professional office
will increase absentee ownership in the neighborhood, reduce the residential
value of the homes and lead to more rezoning requests. It would be good to
stop it now. Thank you very much.
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 16
GLORIA FOLLICK, one owner of the property on Mt. Hope to be rezoned, Z-15-90.
The Arboretum is important to all of us. The entrance is almost to Aurelius
Road and the part where we' re at has no entrance. What they want to do with
that property has nothing to do with changing the general outlook of the area
as far as Arboretum or Mt. Hope. They want it to maintain the sedate,
openness and casual , warm feeling. We have no intention of changing the
property or its looks, as far as the neighbors to the east of us are concerned.
The neighbors to the direct west and east have no problem with it. It is a
very useful , maintained atmosphere. Thank you.
A recess (Wright and Goolsby so moved and seconded. ) was taken by the Board.
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes :
Ms. LeBlanc pointed out two typograhic errors on page 5. Mr. Wright moved to
approve the minutes of August 21, 1990 with noted corrections and Ms. Monteith
supported; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee:
SLU-10-90, 217 North Sycamore Street
The Committee recommends that the request on behalf of Booth Newspapers to
add parking at 217 North Sycamore Street, formerly 221 North Sycamore Street,
for construction of 12 parking spaces on the west 75 feet of the property be
denied.
The Committee does not wish to encourage additional off street parking in
areas where the Master Plan suggests residential development. Even though
this property only borders the land designated for residential use, it is
owned by the State and could send inconsistent messages as to the City's
desire for the larger portion of the block for residential use.
Mr. Barnhart moved for denial and Mr. Wright seconded;
Mr. Goolsby pointed out that there is adequate parking on Ionia Street in
that block.
DENIED
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 17
SLU-11-90, East Side of the 3400 Block of Turner Street
The Committee recommends approval of the request for a special land use to
allow for the development of a new church facility to be located on 3.4 acres
of land on the east side of the 3400 block of Turner Street subject to three
condition:
1. The resolution of the storm sewer service problem; that is, the installation
of proper storm sewer service for the site approved by the Public Service
Department.
2. The submission of a proper site plan including landscape, parking and
traffic circulation provisions. All plans will be approved by the Planning
Division prior to the issuance of building permits.
3. The limitation of the approval to this specific site and this specific
church use of the property.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Mr. Wright supported; APPROVED
Z-15-90, 2535 East Mt. Hope Avenue A to D-1
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends that the 'request to rezone
property at 2535 East Mt. Hope Avenue from "A" Residential to "D-1" Professional
Office District be denied, based on the intent of the Comprehensive Plan to
continue residential land use at a low density. The Committee believes it is
important to minimize impacts by maintaining residential development at a low
density and not encourage more intense development in an area that cannot be
serviced with adequate public facilities.
The Committee further requests the Planning Division revisit this area in
terms of a Master Plan study with the thought of re-evaluating the existing
and proposed land use development.
Mr. Barnhart moved for denial and Mr. Wright supported; DENIED
Planning and Zoning Code Amendments
Based on the input from the community and staff, the Committee recommends
that the proposed amendment be approved and sent on to City Council .
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Mr. Wright seconded; APPROVED
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 18
SLU-4-90, 609/611/615 South Grand Avenue
The Committee recommends approval of the request for a special land use on
property located at 609, 611 and 615 South Grand Avenue for the construction
and improvement of an off street surface parking lot for approximately 28
vehicles.
It was so moved by Mr. Barnhart subject to four conditions:
1. Appropriate landscape screening and buffering around all perimeter spaces
and adjacent to the building.
2. Satisfactory solution to on site storm water retention.
3. Hard surfacing, striping and parking layout which meets Zoning Code
requirements .
4. That the Planning Division review the use of this site at the end of
three years.
Mr. Wright supported; APPROVED
The site plan for the proposed off street parking lot was submitted.
Z-4-88, 5400 Block of South Waverly Road A to DM-1
The Committee had formulated a recommendation on this , but based on information
received this evening and on letters received from Andrew Forester Sass ,
Attorney at Law, August 21, September 12 and September 13, we ask the Board
to table this so staff will have sufficient time to respond to the new
communications.
Mr. Barnhart moved to table and Mr. Wright seconded; TABLED
SLU-3-88, 5400 Block of South Waverly Road Mobile Home Park
So staff has time to review this as well , Mr. Barnhart moved to table this
item also. Mr. Wright supported; TABLED
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 19
Z-18-90, 233/235 North Pine Street DM-4 to D-2
The Committee recommends that the request to rezone 233/235 North Pine Street
from "DM-4" Residential to 11D-2" Residential/Office District be approved.
This would allow conversion of the first floor for office use while maintaining
an apartment on the second floor, with off street parking provided on site
and on the adjacent property.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms . LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
Z-19-90, 229 North Pine Street DM-4 to D-2
The Committee recommends approval of the request to rezone property at 229
North Pine Street from "DM-4" Residential to "D-2" Residential/Office District
to convert the first floor of the existing building for office use while
maintaining an apartment on the second floor.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Ms. Monteith supported; APPROVED
The next Committee meeting will be October 10, 1990 at 2:30 p.m. in the
Planning Division Conference Room.
The outcome of our Committee's vote for officers was: Merle Barnhart, Chairman
and Helen LeBlanc, Vice Chairman.
Urban Development Committee: Garry Goolsby, Chairman
Act-27-90, Holmes and Pleasant Grove Roads--Alley Vacation
The Committee recommends that the paved, platted 16 feet wide alley north of
Holmes Road between Maloney Street and Pleasant Grove Road be vacated subject
to reservation of an easement right for overhead utility wires. Also, that
upon vacation the City work with adjacent property owners to allow for the
vacated alley to be attached to property at 2222 West Holmes Road. The alley
presently serves as a driveway to the parking lot on that property.
Mr. Goolsby so moved and Ms. LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 20
Act-28-90, 1621 Shady Oak Lane--Vacate ROW
The Committee recommends that the request to vacate a portion of the Shady
Oak Lane unzoned right-of-way be turned down. Vacation would eliminate snow
storage and utility access and create an uneven right-of-way line. The
access to 1621 Shady Oak house and property should not be jeopardized.
Mr. Goolsby so moved and Ms. Monteith supported; DENIED
Act-32-90, Labelle Road--Vacate ROW and market property
This is part of the Edgewood Boulevard project. The Committee recommends
that the section of right-of-way as proposed be vacated subject to easement
reservation as requested.
Mr. Goolsby so moved and Mr. Barnhart seconded; APPROVED
The next Committee meeting will be Tuesday, October 9 at 5:30 in the
Planning Conference Room.
Report from Planning Director:
1) Staff has been working with the Physical Development Committee of City
Council on writing a new Sign Ordinance for the City. The Council has
scheduled a public hearing for September 24 on that proposed ordinance. The
sign industry people, composed of billboard people, on premise sign contractors,
our staff and Council Committee have reached a position on an ordinance we
think will be very effective. I have a slide presentation prepared and will
summarize because I would like to ask for your support of the ordinance so
the Council will know your general intent.
In summary, we tried to promote and protect the aesthetic quality of the
community, protect public health, safety and welfare, there are construction
standards in this ordinance, regulate nonconforming signs, establish an effec-
tive administrative process--permit process and licensing of contractors who
erect signage--and a code compliance process for signs that are in violation
of the ordinance, insure compatibility of signage with adjacent land uses.
This ordinance is unique in how it deals with signage to reduce the impact on
residential properties by limiting size, location and height, provide for a
reasonable number of signs and sign messages. We have two provisions; it
Planning Board Minutes
September 18, 1990
Page 21
limits by spacing requirement the number of billboards that could be added to
the city, restricts them in certain areas and provides for a "message unit
concept," which limits the amount of advertising that can be put on any
particular sign. Last, it is proposing to enhance the visual image of the
city by promoting a "Capitol Center District, an area defined within the
central city of Lansing aimed at more restrictive regulations of signage in
that area, specifically no billboards, size and location of ground pole signs
and size of wall signage in that area. The downtown area deserves special
treatment. Also, mobile temporary signs we have limited to three fifteen day
periods a year, put up a deposit, which, if violated, it can be impounded and
destroyed. This can reduce this type of signage and limit its exposure after
failing to get it banned outright. Nonconforming sign regulations--any sign
that is nonconforming that wants to move from a Class A to Class B will have
to come before this Board.
The intent is to limit the number of signs in the community, the size of
those signs , height and impact they have on residential areas. It will
provide a valuable land use planning service in the community.
Ms. Horne stated, we will have Mr. Wright represent us before the City Council
meeting. Mr. Wright pointed out that this has value to the Board of Zoning
Appeals because it has more sign requests than this Board.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Mr. Wright supported; APPROVED
Board Member Comments:
Beth Monteith requests an excused absence from the October 2 meeting. Ms.
LeBlanc moved for approval and Mr. Barnhart seconded;
APPROVED
Adjournment:
The regular September 18, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned
at 11 p.m.
: pe tfully submi ed,
Ja N. Foulds , Dir ctor
L ing Planning Division
WC
Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:30 p.m. , Circuit Court Room
2nd Floor Lansing City Hall r90 DEC `� r�`� 8 58
124 West Michigan Avenue
October 2, 1990
The meeting was called to order by Emly Horne, Chairman at 7:30 p.m. with
seven members present:
Barnhart, Goolsby, Horne, Killips, LeBlanc, McNutt, Wright
Excused: Beth Monteith
Staff in Attendance: Foulds, Spackman
The Board did not have any public hearings, nor scheduled business items for
this date; and instead had a discussion on due process and land use decisions.
The Board was presented and reviewed two articles, one on "Due Process or How
to be Fair," Chapter 7, and second, "Zoning Decisions: A checklist for
Municipal Decision Makers. " The meeting focused on these issues because
procedural due process is probably the area where most commissions have more
of their problems. The rules of fair play in this kind of due process are as
follows:
1. Adequate Notice. When a matter is going to have a public hearing,
interested or potentially interested parties should receive notice far enough
in advance to study what is involved and think about what their response is
going to be.
2. Advance Disclosure. Exhibits and studies prepared for the hearing
ought to be available for study well in advance of the hearing at some
convenient place such as a public library. The staff reports should also be
available for public study before the hearing. Some staff planners are
against having their recommendations known before the hearing, but since the
product of their work is mostly informational , it ought to have the widest
distribution before the hearing. Attorneys who would like the quasi-judicial
proceedings of planning commissions to resemble those of a courtroom have
urged that applicants be required to provide a list of the people who will
testify and a summary of what they will say.
3. The opportunity to be heard. This is a major and most sensitive
element of due process. It is essential that the chairperson have the skill
to make everyone feel they have had their say, while at the same time maintaining
control of the meeting and moving it along to a conclusion. The local
citizenry can be made to feel that the hearing process is totally unfair if
space and time are inappropriate or the commission denies them the chance to
comment on the matter being heard. When the regular hearing place is too
Planning Board Minutes
October 2, 1990
Page 2
small to contain the large number of people expected, then another place for
the hearing needs to be found. Public interest should be estimated before
the notices are sent and a place big enough for people to both be heard and
hear others should be procured.
4. Full disclosure. People interested in a matter being heard by a
commission should have an opportunity to see, hear and examine all statements
and evidence considered by the commission. This includes staff reports,
plans , studies , pictures , drawings and surveys presented to the commission as
evidence on the rightness or wrongness of the proposal it must decide upon.
5. An opportunity to question the statements and evidence presented by
both sides. Since expert testimony and studies often favor the client's
case, questions from both the commission and interested parties should be
permitted to bring out all information such witnesses may have. When question-
ing people on one side of an issue is conducted by attorneys or others from
the opposing side, all questioning should be through the Chair. The chairperson
in turn should see that the questions are proper to the purpose of bringing
out more information on the application relevant to a commission decision.
It is important to remember that the commissioners are not sitting as judges
in a court of law. Therefore, attorneys who attempt to engage in the kind of
behavior suitable for a murder trial have to be firmly checked by the chair-
person, backed by the whole commission. Behavior that is out of place in
planning and zoning hearings includes adversary procedures where witnesses
testifying are bullied by the interruptions , objections of law and threats of
legal action.
6. Findings of fact backing up decisions. The decisions themselves are
central to the practice of due process. Some rules that several attorneys
have recommended are;
A. The commission should act on the evidence received in as fair and
impartial a way as possible.
B. Decisions need to be in written form when they are transmitted to
the legislative body.
C. Specific factual findings in support of a decision are essential ,
particularly in granting or denying variances, permits or plans for sub-
divisions or planned unit developments.
Planning Board Minutes
October 2, 1990
Page 3
7. Avoid the appearance of impropriety. Currently there appears to be
less trust in government than ever before. Commissioners who have business
or financial interests that would stand to profit from a decision obviously
ought not participate in the decision making and should absent themselves
from the entire hearing so that there be no opportunity for them to appear to
influence their collegues on the commission.
When someone is in a business that frequently has interests in applications
before the commission, that person is a dubious choice for the job of planning
commissioner. It does not matter that the intent is to serve fairly and
honestly, it is the effect that he has on the commission's reputation and
credibility as an objective body.
Adjournment:
The regular October 2, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned
at 8:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitte ,
Ja e N. Foulds , D rector
L ing Planning Division
WC
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Forward.
he Michigan Municipal Liability and
JL Pool operates to provide broad coverages for
' S various exposures and financial losses to member
municipalities and townships. This publication has
= a been prepared to notify Pool members of a
growing area of exposure to liability claims.
The fastest growing and, potentially, most
costly type of claims against the Liability and
Property Pool are lawsuits and claims for damages
_.. _ as a result of disputes between land owners and
municipalities over zoning decisions. Nearly half
jof the 140 zoning claims presented to the Pool
through from 1983 through August, 1990, were
=. filed in the last twelve months of that period.
Through July 1990, the Pool has paid $650,000
defending these cases and reserved nearly
$1,000,000 to cover the 62 claims pending.
The Pool disclaims coverage when zoning
actions have resulted in the temporary, unjust
or unlawful taking of property. But the Pool does
provide defense on these cases. Why?
The potential losses from improper zoning or
taking of land can result in financial losses I
amounting to many millions of dollars. The Pool's
reinsurance carriers have not, and will not, pro-
vide coverage for these losses or for other types I
of inverse condemnation. Standard commercial 1
carriers also exclude coverage for such losses.
z
- - I
No insurance policy is universal in its coverage.
Standard exclusions include war, civil insurrection,
breach, of contract, damages arising out of strikes,
riots or commotion, claims arising out of environ-
mental impairment and inverse condemnation.
Although losses resulting from the temporary,
unjust or unlawful taking of property are excluded
from the Pool Coverage Document, this publication
offers technical assistance to ensure that local
zoning boards follow proper procedures to minimize
claims against them.
The Pool Board of Directors and the Pool loss
control services provide information and technical
services such as this publication in areas where
- - there is no indemnification for losses.
During the past year, various court decisions
have held that plaintiffs are entitled to collect
= monetary compensation for damages suffered in
connection with improper zoning practices. As a
_ result, it is urgent for municipalities and townships
- to take corrective action to improve their zoning
- _ procedures to reduce claims and expensive litiga-
tion.
i The Michigan Municipal and Property Pool
urges your close attention to the following article
by James E. Tamm, a member of the Municipal
Law Section of Plunkett and Cooney, P.C. Mr.
Tamm specializes in land use litigation and has
defended a significant number of Pool members
from claims against them.
Eugene F. Berrodin,
Director of Insurance
Michigan Municipal League
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Zoninb Decisions:
A Checklist for
Municipal Decision Makers
By James E. Tamm
- _ Plunkett & Cooney, P.C.
othing seems to stir the local fires like a
- hot zoning issue. In recent years, munici-
pal zoning decisions have aroused ever increas-
- ing attention.
-` This interest was further stimulated by
three decisions the United States Supreme
Court handed down during the summer of
1987. In those cases, the Court held that a
municipality may be held responsible for
= damages if a land use regulation deprived a
property owner of all use of his land.
Following the lead of the United States
Supreme Court, the Michigan Court of Appeals
held that under the Michigan Constitution, a
township could be held liable for damages to
a property owner who was not able to develop
3
1�
1
his property as a mobile home park as a
result of a zoning classification imposed by
- referendum.
_-
1 With the threat of zoning lawsuits on
the rise, many communities are interested =
in steps that can be taken to avoid litigation. J
Although it may be impossible to avoid zoning
lawsuits, there are steps which can be taken
to avoid poor zoning decisions. These steps
are outlined below.
= I. Update Your Land Use Plan -
t and Zoning Ordinance
Afertile source of zoning litigation is an
outdated Land Use Plan or Zoning Ordi-
nance. After adopting a Land Use Plan and
` Zoning Ordinance, many communities avoid or
ignore updating the plan. As time passes, the
conditions underlying the Zoning Ordinance
may change.
Land use patterns change with time.
What may have seemed a sensible land use
relationship ten years ago may not be today.
This is frequently the case in suburban
communities where growth has occurred
rapidly.
i�-
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737
1
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�47
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a In order to avoid situations where the
Zoning Ordinance or Land Use Plan is no
longer rationally .related to legitimate
municipal goals, the Zoning Ordinance and
Master Plan should be reviewed periodically
=- ... for updating. At a minimum, the Zoning
- - Ordinance should be reviewed every ten
years, and if possible, every five years. This
j will help to avoid challenges to the Zoning
Ordinance based on its lack of relationship to -
_ existing land use patterns.
`j
- H. Consult with a Professional -
Land Use Planner
n some large municipalities, it is common _
to have a planner on staff. In smaller com-
munities, there are county planning agencies
3 available to assist and consult on local zoning
decisions. Other communities consult with "
planners as needed in order to receive assis-
tance in zoning-decisions.
Regardless of the manner in which a land
use planner is employed, the opinions of the
planner should be given careful consideration. 1
When municipalities do not follow the advise
of the planning official, it often leads to i
claims that the zoning decision of the
municipality is arbitrary and capricious.
-- i
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5
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Planners often provide detailed reports ;:_
summarizing the basis for their opinion. �-
Unless there are facts that have not been
considered by the planner, or there are other s=
reasons which do not support the planner's
o inion, a community should follow the advice
P =
of its planning consultant. _:
III, Read All Information
Submitted Concerning '
_ a Zoning Request
. _ o avoid claims that a zoning decision is
made in an arbitrary, capricious or un-
` reasonable manner, all information submitted -
along with a rezoning request should be _
reviewed by the Planning Commission and
ive body. This would include
local legislat -.
recommendations by a planning consultant - -
_ or local planning agency, site plans, traffic
- studies'or any other material submitted to
support a zoning request. The fact that the
t _ material has been submitted and reviewed
should be noted in the minutes of any meeting
during which zoning is discussed.
lJ
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7
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3
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By reviewing the information submitted k
- by an applicant, the municipality can avoid
claims that it is making an uninformed
decision. Noting that the information has
been reviewed on the record can avoid later
claims that the municipality ignored the
information submitted by the applicant.
- IV. Conduct An Orderly
- : Public Nearing on
_ the Zoning Request
_ - - henever there is a request for rezoning,
Wamendment to the zoning ordinance, re-
_ - quest for special land use or variance request,
individuals who own real property within 300 i
feet of the property to be rezoned are re-
. quired to be given notice under state law.
_ This
often leads to a well attended public =
_ - - - meeting with local citizens anxious to express
their opinion on the zoning issue. Both the
-..; zoning applicant and members of the public
must be permitted to state their opinions at
the public meeting. An individual, particularly _
the zoning applicant, who is denied an oppor-
tunity to be heard may be able to claim a
violation of his due process rights.
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Well attended public meetings where _ .
owners oppose a rezoning re property� PP g request
q �-:
often lead to claims that the municipality
caved in to public pressure rather than
making an informed zoning decision. A zoning
decision should not be based solely on public -
opposition. Instead, the zoning decision should be based on the relationship between the ;".,._.
proposed land use and the Master Plan '
current land use patterns, the effect of the
zoning and the reasonable use of the property.
"j
V. The Zoning Decision
Should be Based on
Your Master Plan and
Zoning Ordinance - -
a n reaching its decision on a zoning re-
_ --� est the municipality -
qu should follow its
14
Zoning Ordinance and Master Plan. A zoning
- --� request which is inconsistent with the Zoning
Ordinance and Master Plan should be denied.
The zoning decision should not single out .
the applicant for special or privileged _
treatment. Cries of "spot zoning" will be
heard if the use is not in the public interest
and only benefits the applicant.
s �
d
1
By contrast, since nearly every use of land
is legitimate somewhere, if the municipality
does not provide any place within its
boundaries for a particular land use, such an
_ exclusion may be invalid. For example, a
community cannot entirely exclude particular
_ types of land use such as mobile home parks,
junk yards, motels, hog farms or cemeteries.
As a preventative measure, the Zoning
Ordinance and Master Plan should provide for
a variety of land use. Obviously, the size of �-
the municipality and the type of land use
already present are relevant to the issue of
y exclusion. A smaller community or one that is
already developed may legitimately argue that
it need not provide more space for every type
of land use.
In essence, each zoning decision should be
- 1 made upon its own unique facts and
circumstances. A community should not adopt
a policy to deny or exclude any particular _
type of land use.
- s-
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VI. Making a Record of
the Decision
jhe most important factor in defending a _community's zoning zoning decision is providing
an adequate record. The basis for the zoning
decision should be clear in the minutes of
-- ! meetings. The specific reasons for denying or _
approving a zoning request should be clearly _
stated.
For example, if a rezoning request would
i be inconsistent with the land use plan, will
cause traffic problems or discourage
=± development in the area, these reasons should
be specifically identified in the record. Where
a planning consultant's recomendations
m
support the municipality's decision, it should
' be referenced in the minutes. By providing for -
the decision in the record, the municipality
can avoid disputes which may arise later over
the rationale motivating the decision.
i
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- Conclusion
- Ithough there is no certain way to
prevent a disgruntled property owner
from filing a zoning lawsuit, following the
steps outlined above can help to make a
_ municipal zoning decision more defensible in :
istakes such as relying
court. The common m
on outdated Master Plans, ignoring existing
patterns, or basing a decision solely
^:* land use p ily avoided. Fol-
- can be eas
on public opinionoutlined above can avoid
lowing the steps
" poor zoning decisions that result in lawsuits. "-
raduated with honors .
- **James E. Tamm g it Law School.
t~. •`°'-'" -. from the University of Detro
the Municipal Law Sec
the is a member of specialized in
tion at Plunkand& Cooney.
litigation
4
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municipal
Liability &
PropertY
PO
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Municipal Insurance Sere�ices
Michigan Municipal League-
p.O. Box 1487; 1675 Green Road �
Ann Arbor,MI 48106
(313) 662-3246 or (800)-922-5234
FAX (313) 662-8083
Due Process or
Homer to Be Fair
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Members of commissions with the role of conducting fair
and impartial fact-finding hearings must, as far as practicable,
`. be open minded, objective, impartial, free of entangling
influences, and capable of hearing the weak voices as well as
I
the strong.
—Supreme Court of Washington
r. I -
Buell v. City of Bremerton(1972)
The courts have said very clearly that local governments' � I
decisions in planning and zoning don't have to be wise but
they do have to be fair. The legal term for fairness in such 'J
decision making is"due process." Substantive due process
involves using legislative powers so that no one is deprived of
their or rightsproperty. Inverse condemnation is one example ,I
9
of an abuse of this kind of due process.The important thing
here is to find the correct middle ground between the use of
the police power for the public welfare and proper respect for
the rights of the individual and his or her private property. How
_ far regulations can go is constantly being redetermined by the
courts and the circumstances of the times.
Procedural due process is probably the area where most
commissions have more of their problems. The rules of fair
play in this kind of due process are as follows:
1 . Adequate notice:When a matter is going to have a public
hearing, interested or potentially interested parties should -
receive notice far enough in advance to study what is involved
and think about what their response is going to be.
While many state statutes and local ordinances cover the 95
details of noticing for hearings,they are often only legal
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through by an indecisive commission are not yet illegal
everywhere, they ought to be.
d.When should a commissioner resign?All commissioners
have some ideas about what their participation in a
commission should bring about both for the community and
for their own sense of well-being. If not, why would anyone
serve in an unpaid job involving long hours, hard work,,and
lots of pressure? If conditions are such that realization of
one's goals becomes remote, a resignation may very well be
the best move. If, for example, there is a wide gap between a
commissioner's sense of decency and the policies of the
council, then it may be in everyone's best interest if he
resigned, He's obviously no longer a"trusted advisor." He
should not only resign but should do so with a shrill blast of
whistleblowing about the neglect of the community's future.
His energies might thereafter be best directed to turning the
rascals out at the next election.
The"quit line" that must be drawn is in a different location for
each individual, but every commissioner should mentally
- draw one and know early in the term that it lies at the limits of
where his or her conscience will go.The line should become
sharper the more one is pushed toward it. When the limit is
being approached, it may help to give clear warning to those
that can do something about the situation that unless specific
changes are made,there will be one less commissioner on
- - —- board. Be prepared to carry out this warning before giving it.
- - - Do not be swayed, manipulated, or pressured into backing
down from closely held convictions. Nobody should"own" a
planning commissioner.A commissioner is nonfunctional if
not independent, objective, and operating from his or her own
set of convictions.
104
REDS. LANSING
I T
J: I
'�. BY:
'91 FEB 11 LPMSI�GaANNING BOARD
:�30 p .m . , Circuit Court Room #2
2nd Floor Lansing City Hall
October 16, 1990
Emly Horne , Chairman , convened the meeting at 7:30 p .m . with seven members
present:
Barnhart , Goolsby, Horne , LeBlanc , McNutt , Monteith , Wright
Excused Absence: It was moved and seconded to excuse Rose Killips;
APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Foulds , Fountain , Spackman , Wynant
Approval of Agenda :
It was agreed to amend the agenda to place public hearing item E , case SLU-17-90,
at the top of the hearings .
PUBLIC HEARINGS: Presented by Vern Fountain , Zoning Administrator
SLU-17-90, 5400 Dr. Martin Luther King , Jr. Blvd./Logan St.
REVEREND PHILIP OWENS, representing Immanuel's Temple Community Church ,
petitioner, described the project and its two phases . We do plan to be a good
neighbor and to build something aesthetically pleasing . The first phase of
developing this 20 acres site on property south of Jolly Road and west of Logan
will consist of an 11 ,480 square foot church structure with 175 parking spaces .
Future phases will consist of an additional 20,000 square feet of church space and
an additional 827 parking spaces.
JIM BROWN , Architectural Research and Consulting , 119 Pere Marquette and I live
at 217 North Chestnut , presented the concept and design of the site and church .
The site joins two streets with frontage along Logan just south of Jolly and on
Jolly Road . The present 300 members are expected to become 2,000 and they would
like to stay in the neighborhood . This is located on the Gilkey Drain adjacent to
a Consumers Power right-of-way with transmission lines and towers . The entrance
will. be off Logan until full growth occurs, then Jolly will have
Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1-990
Page 2
access also. There are no existing structures on the site , only vegetation. A more
detailed site plan with exact parking space and building location and size will
be submitted following authorization for a special land use permit.
PENNY LEITZ , 5216 Balzer. I have no objection to the church going up but as a
community we have concerns about the buffer, police enforcement if and when
phase two ever goes in , about home values and property taxes, if there will be a
playground, the height of parking lot lights not being higher than the tops of the
trees . We would like speed, bumps and to know where drainage will be . We would
like to know church activities and how much added traffic there will be.
Ms . Monteith questioned the depth of lots . Ms. Leitz said 305 feet.
MARK SPENCE , 1523 and 1525 Jolly Road . My access to Jolly Road comes off their
future drive so I have a problem knowing what will happen in the second phase.
It is presently a rental property . There is no easement to Jolly from my property.
SHIRLEY MORALES, 5200 Balzer, asked if there will be other opportunities to
express concerns and do further study . Response: At the November 20 Planning
Board meeting and at City Council, probably the first of next year.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-21-90, 912 East Kalamazoo Street C to F
ALAN MARTIN , Quality Dairy , 111 West Mt . Hope Avenue. We have experienced a
lack of parking at this location and by expanding parking can better service the
area . By proper planning we can alleviate any concerns people may raise. There
may be an addition to the building at some point in the future .
Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1991
Page 3
Communications were received from:
LARRY ANDRIGNA and JOSEPH A. SKIPPA 1610 Autumn Lane , opposed to commercial
zoning; it will increase traffic , be a danger to residents and deteriorate the area .
ED KAPELLA , 907 Hickory , submitted a petition from neighborhood residents
opposed to the rezoning for the following reasons:
1 ) The destruction of a two living unit house on this lot for Quality Dairy
expansion will further reduce Lansing' s already low housing stock in modest
priced houses .
2) Quality Dairy' s operation here has long been a problem to the residents .
3) Once the lot and rezoning are acquired and the apartment house removed, there
is nothing to hinder having a 24 hour laundromat, as QD has done at other
locations.
4) Notorious slum areas of cities become such through neglect of residents
resisting undesirable pressures each time they are observed .
Our two biggest objections to Quality Dairy here are locating in a residential
area , not a shopping district where residents have their quality of life affected
continually . Second, they are open constantly . If they are allowed to expand,
the problems will increase. Thank you.
TOM WOLVEN , 413 South Pennsylvania Avenue . Despite Mr. Martin' s best efforts ,
which are noticeably recent , there are problems from noise, criminal activity,
trash and numerous disruptions in the neighborhood. There is seldom a time of
day when all parking spaces are filled. He already has parking along the entire
west fence line . We are looking here at the ultimate expansion of a business which
already has too many negative aspects to the people in the neighborhood to cope
with . Therefore , I am extremely opposed to the granting of the change.
ROBERT GRAHAM 41.4 South Pennsylvania , two doors south of Quality Dairy. I am
definitely opposed to this expansion because for 17 years one big problem we've
had is the trash . People toss it and we have to pick it up. Also if it were to
expand , we would have more traffic and bring more crime and undesirables into
Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1990
Page 4
the area . Quality Dairy cannot properly control what they have in their parking
lot.
JOHN RUGS , 201 Lathrop Street and Secretary of the Eastside Neighborhood
Organization and speaking for them tonight. We oppose the rezoning of this
property for two reasons; (1 ) because of the loss of housing stock and (2)
because the numerous complaints have not been very well addressed. Thank you.
JEANINE MARIE TAYLOR SANCHEZ , 413 South Pennsylvania , directly across the
street. It worries me that no one will say exactly what this future addition is .
We can't sleep at night and I can' t go out because I would probably be assaulted.
I pick up at least a trash bag full a week out of my front lawn and flower beds.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-22-90, 216 West Lapeer Street DM-4 to D-1
Mr. Wright questioned why this is not a candidate for D-2 rather than D-1 . Mr.
Fountain responded that the petitioner wants to use this as office, which is shown
on the most recently developed Master Plan for the area .
ROBERT FORD , petitioner, 1.0367 West Scenic Lake . To the east is a professionally
zoned office and parking lot . There is not a house between the house I am
requesting zoning on and the Maurer-Foster professional building . There is a
parking lot immediately to the east. I propose to use this structure to create an
office on the first floor and the second floor would be occupied by the tenant for
a period of time to allow the business to expand, at which time the second floor
could be converted to office space . I do a lot of work with Community College and
this location would be ideal.
At this point we are only anticipating a maximum of two employees. It's a
landscape architectural business , which is not to be confused with a landscape
Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1.991
Page 5
contracting business . We do not have trucks or carry potting soil . We do strictly
desktop computerized planning.work . The rear of the yard could accommodate six
to eight vehicles . Two of those spaces are in an enclosed garage . It would not be
a problem to create area for off street parking . Thank you.
DEBORAH MULCAHEY , 71.3 West Genesee. I own a residential two unit at 608
Seymour. I am not concerned with potting soil , I am concerned with herbicides
and pesticides in a residential area . I would like to be sure that will not occur.
The proposed plan for parking is one of my biggest concerns for the future use of
the building . Why are we were having eight to nine total parking spaces when
only four are needed for the office and two for the residential? I am concerned
with lighting , snow removal and drainage and runoff. I care because I have
wonderful tenants there and I want to make sure lighting , drainage and runoff
will not create a negative impact on them .
George Swanson , who was the City Engineer in 1987, said they need retention and
there was a great deal of concern about development of this area because the sewer
sytem was not adequate to handle any more development . If you go forward with
this , I would like to request;
1 ) The parking plan grant them a minimal amount of parking spaces which would
help to reduce runoff from that parking area .
2 ) A lighting plan that would have no impact on the neighborhood residents .
3) The city not grant an occupancy permit until all standards and requirements
are met.
4) 1 would like the landscape plan to include type and size of non-deciduous
vegetation to provide a buffer for noise and lighting and help with water uptake
and a commitment for long term maintenance. I would like to see a schedule for
plantings c
5) 1. would like to see some type of bond or agreement with significant penalties
for the applicant's failure to plant the vegetative buffer as required .
Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1990
Page 6
6) I would like a site plan for snow removal.
7) I would like a statement from public works saying this area can handle
additional water and some type of retention basin for this area . Thank you for
listening to me .
A message was received from DAVE SCIIADE , 601 Seymour, who feels the rezoning
will benefit the neighborhood.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Z-23-90, 2200 Olds Avenue B and I-I to I
DENNIS FELLEM, Facility Manager of this Industrial Welding location . The
petition is an advent of recent changes in how parts enter our facility. Part of
the area is being used to bring in trucks larger than they used to be. For us to
continue our operation, level of business and employment in this location, it is
essential that we have this petition . We wish to continue to be a good neighbor.
We have been in this area for 50 years in a responsible fashion . Thank you
STUART J . DUNNINGS, JR . , representing Ms . Brunetta Wade , living at 2022 Olds
Avenue . I have two petitions she has circulated and Ms . Wade has made
complaints for over a year to Planning and Safety about the violation of this
Company operating contrary to the Zoning Code. They said a law suit would be
issued within a week, which was never done . There are large trucks in the area
blocking the driveway . There is noise 24 hours a day , she has problems sleeping
and cannot utilize her back yard because of the congregation of trucks and
business equipment. I don 't think you should accommodate this property owner
by granting this petition when they have flagrantly violated the Zoning
Ordinance . I ask that you turn this petition down. Thank you.
THOMAS TUCKER , a Minister at the Original Church of God. We oppose this and ask
that you accept what the neighborhood is saying . Those trucks do a lot of damage
and interrupt our services . Thank you.
4-_ Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1.990
Page 7
JOHN LEWIS, 913 Everett Drive owner. I am opposed to this rezoning and ask the
individuals who allude to being a good neighbor, how many employees are of the
minority persuasion . I think, they are few. I hope you will not grant this
request. Thank you .
JONAS POWELL , 1909 Williams Street. We struggled a long time to get that property
paid for. I would not like to see Industrial Welding be rezoned . We have enough
going on , we don't need additional noise from those big trucks and I am concerned
about the church . I would like this petition to be denied. Thank you .
ORLANDA MC MILLON , Everett/Olds Avenue corner. I am asking this not be rezoned
because there is so much noise , which has shaken our home to pieces . There is no
way we could get anything to sell our property. They break up steel outside our
home and it smells like tar. You can hardly sleep in the neighborhood . I hope
this is denied . Thank you .
DAVE ATWOOD , 1917 Williams . Most people in that area are retired and people are
concerned about the neighborhood . We are getting feedback from the chemical they
are burning . I do not go along with the rezoning because we have to put up with
enough noise and chemicals as it is . Thank you.
WILL WADE , 2022 Olds Avenue. You have heard about the noise, but you have to
be there to hear the heavy machinery falling to the ground . They shake your
foundation and the truck backs into my Mother's fence all the time . The fork lift
truck has to go back and forth across Olds Avenue to the building and cars have
to stop for them .
The Chairman read communications received from:
FATHER MURPHY RODGER , 822 Buffalo Street; not in favor without
compensation for neighbors.
MRS. CLIFFORD GREEN , 1922 Williams; opposed .
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTE
Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1991
Page 8
SLU-14-90, 1419-1421 West Holmes Road--Church
REVEREND HAWKINS, petitioner, Tithe Missionary Baptist Church. We have been
having services in a house for some time and need more space . We are in an area
which already has a church and school , shopping center and apartment building .
We feel there is a lot we could do if we had the proper facility . We ask that you
please grant the request we are making . Thank you .
MS. HAWKINS, member of the Tithe Missionary Baptist Church . This is beautiful
scenery . We ask you to consider the Pastor's plea for land use that we might
build an adequate sanctuary for our membership . Thank you.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Comments from the Audience:
RUTH STEVENSON , regarding Z-16-90, 6541 Rosedale Road. I have opposed this
rezoning all along . Will a decision be made tonight? Mr. Fountain responded,
just today we received a letter requesting withdrawal of this request. So the
Committee will be making a decision tonight.
BERNICE MASON , 703 North Francis , owner and operator of Mason Body Shop , 312
East Kalamazoo Street. I presented 117 signatures from my neighbors , friends and
business associates to the Planning Board meeting of September 18, 1990 from
people who wish to have`the alley open between Pennsylvania and Hosmer Street.
Twenty-four of these are from people whose property borders the alley in this
block. If the alley were closed, it would ruin our family business by forcing us
to close. Our primary work floor is only accessible from the alley, which is also
necessary for police and fire accessibility . Thank you .
A brief recess was taken by the Board
Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1990
Page 9
BUSINESS SESSION:
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Merle Barnhart , Chairman
Z-16-90, 6541 Rosedale Road A to C
The petitioner, John Cooley, has requested us to withdraw his petition for
rezoning . Mr. Barnhart moved to accept the withdrawal request , supported by Ms.
Monteith; APPROVED
Z-17-90, 3030 South Cedar Street A to F
The Committee recommends that the request by Mark Hunt to rezone property at 3030
South Cedar Street from "A" Residential to "F" Commercial District be approved.
The Committee found that the proposed change is in substantial conformance with
the Master Plan which designates this area along Cedar Street as commercial.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms . LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Z-20-90, 4722 North Grand River Avenue A and J to 11
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee recommends that the request by Pat Baskell
to rezone property at 4722 North Grand River Avenue from "A" Residential and "J"
Parking Districts to "H" Light Industrial District be denied as filed but further
recommended that the south 90 feet of the property be rezoned to "J" Parking
District . This would allow parking expansion as well as a new identification sign
to be installed providing this proposed sign meets the minimum dimensional
requirements .
Mr. Barnhart so moved , Ms . Monteith supported; ALTERED AND APPROVED
Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1990
Page 10
The next meeting of the Zoning and Ordinance Committee will be held on
Wednesday , November 14 at 2:30 p .m. in the Planning Division Conference
Room.
Urban Development Committee: Garry Goolsby , Chairman
Act-2-90, 101 East Grand River Avenue, Estes Furniture
This is a request by Wayne C . Foster , Managing Partner for Foster Properties , for
vacation of the alley off the 1200 block of North Washington Avenue behind Estes
Furniture at 101 East Grand River Avenue .
The Committee recommends that the alley be sold since it is a deeded parcel and
not dedicated , with exception of the east twenty-five feet (25' ) . Further that the
City receive , in partial consideration for the alley , the east twenty-five feet of
the property formerly known as 121-123 East Grand River Avenue for the purpose
of providing access to the east twenty-five feet of the alley . Possibly a river
overlook could be constructed at this location . Also, depending on the required
appraisals of the two properties , any difference gained in the sale of the alley be
dedicated to improving the riverfront property.
Mr. Goolsby so moved and Ms . McNutt supported; APPROVED
Act-13-90, Washtenaw/Marlin L . King , Jr. Blvd/Logan St--Overpass
The Committee recommends reinstallation of the pedestrian crosswalk over
King/Logan in a location between Allegan and Kalamazoo Street to best serve the
needs of area residents and provide an alternate for safe passage across
King/Logan .
Mr. Goolsby so moved , Ms . McNutt supported; APPROVED
Planning Board Minutes
October 1.6, 1990
Page 11
Act-19-90, 800 Block of East Kalamazoo Street
The Committee recommends that the request by Tom Parker for vacation of the
east/west alley in the 800 block of East Kalamazoo Street for parcel assemblage to
construct a new building be denied and the alley remain open and functional .
Mr. Goolsby so moved, Ms . McNutt seconded; DENIED
The next Committee meeting will be Tuesday , November 13 in the Council
Conference Room at 5:30 p .m.
Report from Planning Director_ James Foulds '
1 ) The Mayor has recommended sale of the Civic Center block to Heart of the City
Associates . The Council committees are deliberating and will formulate a final
recommendation . Two issues involved are; relocation of existing tenants , and to
what use it will be put . There were needs identified by the House of
Representatives and Senate staff which may become part of the Civic Center block
development . Any proposal will have to go through the rezoning process because
the block is not properly zoned.
2) The Mayor also made administrative recommendation on the so called B-1 site ,
which is the southwest corner of Shiawassee and Capitol Avenue. The developer
for that site has been selected as the Jonah Company. That proposal includes a
five story building with 1 ,000 parking spaces which the City would own and
operate, 40,000 square feet of private leased office space and about 90 to 100 units
of red market rate rental apartments . It is an attractively designed building that
fits nicely into the neighborhood. Council will now make a decision on the final
agreement . That property will also need rezoning to the proper district.
Planning Board Minutes
October 16, 1991
Page 12
3) The Council did adopt the new, functioning , contemporary , professionally
prepared Sign Ordinance , which we are happy to work with . I appreciate all the
Board members who worked on it. It will take us ten years to see an impact, but
when you're dealing with a land use tool like a Sign Ordinance , that's not
unusual .
4) We did have the Michigan Society of Planning Officials State Conference here
in Lansing last week . The Mayor gave nice welcoming remarks and complimented
that organization , which is composed primarily of planning commissioners;
township , municipal and county from throughout the state . Emly represented the
Board and did a very nice job . In addition Mr. Wright served the City very well
and chaperoned the spouses tour for the Conference. Staff also sponsored two
mobile workshops on buses that staff narrated for the river trail system in
Lansing and for downtown development. We also set up a capitol restoration tour
on Saturday morning which had about fifty-five people attending .
Board Member Comments:
1 ) Beth Monteith reported; we are looking again at the PRD on Forest Road and at
our last Zoning and Ordinance meeting we went over Wayne Magee' s newest site
plan . I personally requested that he give us a tour of his work on the Manhattan
Condos , which he has set up for Saturday morning .
2) Garry Goolsby requested an update on the Lansing Community College situation
and also feedback on how the D-2 district usage is working .
3) The next meeting of the Board will be on Wednesday, November 7, 1990.
Planning Board Meeting
October 16, 1990
Page 13
Adjournment:
The regular October 16 , 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned at
9:45 p .m
Respectfully sub fitted ,
Ja ies Fould 1, Director
La si g Planning Division
WC
Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:30 p .m. , Circuit Court Room #2
2nd Floor, Lansing City Hall
124 West Michigan Avenue
Wednesday , November 7, 1990
Emly Horne convened the meeting at 7:30 p .m. with eight members present:
Barnhart , Goolsby , Horne, Killips , LeBlanc, McNutt, Monteith, Wright
Staff in Attendance: Foulds , Fountain
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Community Development Block Grant/Capital Improvements Program 1991-1992
Ms . Horne prologued; this is the time for a public hearing which will pr.ovide an
opportunity for citizens to express preferences for the use of approximately
$1 ,400,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds that the City expects to
receive from the federal government during the fiscal year commencing on July 1 ,
1991 and ending on June 30, 1992. It is also appropriate at this time for citizens
to comment on their needs and priorities in regard to projects that should be
funded under the City's Capital Improvements Program for fiscal years 1992 to
1997 . Any person in the audience that wishes to address the Planning Board on
these matters should come to the microphone, state your name and address and
provide us your comments . Mr. Stonehouse do you have any comments? Response;
not at this time .
PRISCILLA HOLMES, Director of the Lansing Neighborhood Council. As you know,
you have graciously supported us in the past and we hope you will do that again
this year. Currently we are receiving $39 ,000 approximately of Block Grant funds
and that pays for myself as Director and a fifteen hour a week staff person and
some office expenses . The space is donated by the Center for Urban Affairs .
We also are receiving through Neighborhood Builders Alliance $40,000 to sponsor
our "paint blitz" where we painted 40 houses this year with volunteers; 32 in one
day . We have a request currently for 50,000.We serve twelve neighborhood crgani nations whiAeosg aphiccal y co�er about 65%
of Lansing . We provide a variety of service de7mrzt fng oon the need'�-Ptechnical
assistance , help on project or housing code erforceme,�R� lo
t
ONISNI-1 '0018
Planning Board Minutes
November 7, 1990
Page 2
One reason besides requesting a slight increase in clerical help , we have seen a
need for training for neighborhood organizations for specific things . So we will
be preparing a budget, probably totaling $12,000 to $13,000 more.
As we speak , there are four neighborhood organizations meeting . Two of those are
the Eastside Neighborhood Organization and the South Central Neighborhood
Organization . The other two are just forming and in five weeks we have had five
requests for assistance in forming new neighborhood organizations. I know your
relationship with them is when they express concerns on, i.e. , a rezoning . Our
viewpoint that those are community volunteers willing to work on solving
neighborhood problems . The Baker/Linval area had 185 people at their first
meeting .
Other than being here on behalf of the Neighborhood Council, you had a budget
category that said "support to neighborhood organizations" and maybe Mr. Foulds
can address how that funding was used if you have questions . You might want to
reserve a small pot of money if groups come and need assistance with neighborhood
cleanup .
Now, my third hat; I just came from the South Central Neighborhood Organization
and they requested I speak for them. They are interested in developing their own
neighborhood center. In the summer we go to the park or to somebody's house and
try to put 50 people in and they are going to submit something hoping Block Grant
funds leverage some other funds . There are federal funds available directly to
neighborhoods and looking forward, to possibly acquiring a building in the next
18 months for a meeting place . They run a 1500 volunteer recycling program and
a latchkey program and really need accessible space.
Those are my comments and if you have any questions , I will be working with
neighborhood groups on their improvement needs and I will suggest that they put
together a budget estimate so you would know in advance . Thank you.
REFERRED TO URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Planning Board Minutes
November 7, 1990
Page 3
Z-24-90, 1210 West Ionia Street B to C
A phone message was received from ROBERT FAGGIN , 3024 Carey Street; opposed to
a two unit use.
My stepfather, VERNON BATES, 1201 West Ionia, is concerned with the affect on his
home if this is converted to a two family structure. Mr. Foulds responded; staff
and Board will attempt to determine if there would be any negative impact; such
as , adequacy of parking , area land use pattern , utility capacity , adequacy of
sanitary sewers .
JON IVERSEN, 2622 Fireside Drive, petitioner and owner of 1210 West Ionia . I plan
to turn the upstairs into a two bedroom apartment and the downstairs into a two
bedroom apartment. I have spent quite a bit of money in the last year repairing
the home; furnace , water heater, new roof, paint and am putting a sidewalk in as
soon is the zoning change is taken care of. Two bedroom homes rent better and are
easier to maintain than big homes. I have submitted a site plan with the house
size . Parking will be in the back yard, which has a concrete pad for one vehicle
that can be expanded, and with the rezoning approval I would put in a concrete
drive within two years. There is adequate space in the back yard for four
parking spaces behind the house and there is plenty of play area for children.
RICK GAMBER , Housing Committee of the Westside Neighborhood Organization,
submitted pictures and a statement (on file) in opposition for several reasons .
(1 ) We believe in maintaining the single family character of our neighborhood
and in fostering owner occupied housing . (2) The 1200 block of West Ionia Street
is already overcongested. (3) The house in question is too small for a two family
unit . (4) The neighborhood trend is away from two unit houses . (5) The house
is not adequately maintained in its current use. We are unable to find any
beneficial affect to such a change. We would like to work with you on
comprehensive review of zoning in the area rather than this piecemeal approach.
You can best help us by denying the request. Thank you.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Planning Board Minutes
November 7 , 1990
Page 4
A brief recess was taken by the Board .
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the minutes of September 18 , 1990; seconded
by Mr. Goolsby . APPROVED
Mr. Wright moved for approval of the minutes of October 2, 1990; Ms . McNutt
supported; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Merle Barnhart , Chairman
P-1-89, Jet Place Final Plat
The Committee recommends that the final plat of Jet Plat be approved if no negative
agency responses have been received , subject to the following conditions:
1 . That the Deed or Abstract of Title be accompanied by an attorney' s
opinion as to the marketability of the land , or a Certificate of Title
Insurance be submitted to the City Clerk prior to signing of the plat
and affixing of the Municipal Seal .
2 . That final security be posted in the amount specified by the Public
Service Department and the Department of Parks and Recreation .
3 . That all conditions of the preliminary plat be adhered to.
Mr . Barnhart so moved for approval and Ms . LeBlanc seconded;
APPROVED
Planning Board Minutes
November 7, 1990
Page 5
The next meeting of the Committee will be held November 14, 1990 at
2:30 p .m. in the Planning Division Conference Room.
Urban Development Committee:
Garry Goolsby , Chairman reported that the next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday,
November 13 in the Planning Division Conference Room at 5:30 p .m
Report from the Planning Director: James Foulds
1 ) Council unanimously approved the parking lot at 217 North Sycamore. At
Council's Physical Development Committee I presented the Board and staff position
and the Master Plan policy for the area . The Council felt that this situation was
an isolated case in that Booth News is one of four or five structures left in that
double block and any temporary surface parking lots placed in that block will not
impact city policy into the residential area to the north or east . They added a
statement to that effect in the resolution for approval . I expressed concern that
the State Department of Management and Budget would take this action on the part
of the city to pursue installing surface lot(s ) in that particular block .
2) Status of the Boys ' Training School (BTS) property on the east side, just north
of the Pattengill/Eastern complex. The City received $30,000 to fund a planning
study which will outline uses for the 40 plus acres of land controlled by the
Department of Management and Budget will sell within two years . The objective
is that the plan , approved by this Board and the Council, will become the
disposition plan for those 40 acres . The City will match the $30,000 grant with a
$6,000 contribution plus in kind services from our Division to prepare a plan with
consultant services , environmental study in addition to site planning and other
activities .
The State will appoint a citizen planning committee; three of which will be
appointed by the Mayor and I have suggested two or three be composed of Planning
Board members . We may be able to meet some personal growth needs on the part
of Sparrow Hospital, Lansing School District and possibly Lansing Catholic
rlanning Board Minutes
November 7 , 1990
Page 6
Central in addition to providing some acreage for residential and office
development in that area . It is an unusual situation to have 40 acres in the
middle of an urban area available for development.
3 ) Currently appraisals on Lansing Community College owned residential
properties are being undertaken, also those the City owns on Washington Square.
They should be done within the next month.
4) We are conducting a survey of "D-2" properties and will have a list hopefully
by next meeting .
5) Lance Clark died a little over a week ago. He has been before this Board
several times and Mary, his wife , is a staunch activist in the Green Oaks area .
There are five children . Memorial services date and time were reported.
6) Staff met with Mr. Magee regarding the Forest Road condominiums (PRD-1-90)
to go over in detail the conditions imposed by the Zoning Committee on that
proposal . He understands them and our direction to him was to come back with a
plan that reflects those conditions or staff will not endorse the recommendation as
it goes back to the Zoning Committee .
Ms . Monteith added; some of us did tour with Mr. Magee the Forest Road site and
his development of Manhattan condos on the corner of Aurelius and Cavanaugh .
He was timely and gracious in responding to us and the homes were lovely .
7) I met with management of Industrial Welding and told them they had work to
do on their site in terms of configuration . They have an opportunity to move
outside of Lansing . They are part of a national conglomerate , no longer locally
owned. They are interested in staying because of their major investment in the
comlex . They would like to expand more substantially than the proposal before
you at your last meeting . I told them to put a plan together which reflects
minimal impact on the neighborhood and to hire a qualified designer capable of
dealing in good urban design . I believe they will come in with a fairly
aggressive acquisition program. I advised them to go the option route rather
Planning Board Minutes
November 7 , 1990
Page 7
than purchase in the event the City does not endorse the rezoning . They are now
cleaning up the lot because they realize they have not been very responsive to the
neighborhood .
8 ) Mr. Barnhart asked the status of the Civic Center. Mr. Foulds answered , as
you know, the Council passed a resolution authorizing the administration to
prepare and execute a sales agreement with Joel Feguson and Sam Eyde for sale of.
the Civic Center to be used basically as an office entity . I was asked by the
Mayor to sit on the transition team for relocating tenants as well as on the
negotiating team for the agreement , which involves demolition of the structure and
construction of a new office building .
Mr. Barnhart questioned the Board request of staff to prepare statements , like
disclaimers , concerning when we are required to have a public hearing . Mr.
Foulds said that is not yet complete .
9) Ms . Monteith asked about the CDBG process and timing . Mr. Foulds clarified;
the City has to have an application into the Detroit HUD office the first part of
March . We try to include this in the Mayor' s budget submission to Council so the
whole package goes up together, which he submits to Council the end of January .
The role of the Board, in addition to the Needs hearing , is to review program
recommendations from the Development Division , which will encompass how much
money we will spend in the City on rehabilitation , acquisition , staffing and how
many dollars for special programs . With our recommendation and based on
comments from the community , you either agree or disagree . The Department will
also make recommendations to the Board.
Board Members Comments:
Emly Horne announced she had attended the open house for the .Boys' and Girls '
Club on Pleasant Grove Road . I also attended the Housing Coalition dedication of
their house on Lapeer Street . The same evening I also attended the opening of the
Bruno Tews jewelry store downtown .
Planning Board Minutes
November 7 , 1990
Page 8
Adjournment:
The regular November 7 , 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board adjourned
at8:45 p .m
.
Respectfully su mitted ,
Jam s Fould , Director
Lansi g Planning Division
WC
a
Regular Meeting
LANSING• PLANNING BOARD T
7:30 p .m . , Circuit Court Room #2 �=
2nd Floor, Lansing City Hall C'D r-
CD �.
124 West Michigan Avenue r
November 20, 1990
z
w
Emly Horne , Chairman convened the meeting at 7:35 p .m . wi.th six members
present . Beth Monteith arrived at 7:40 p .m .
Attendance:
Barnhart , Goolsby, Horne , LeBlanc , McNutt , Monteith , Wright
Excused Absence: Mr. Wright moved for the approved absence of Rose Ki.11ips and
Ms . McNutt supported; APPROVED
Staff in Attendance:
Fountain , Coscar.el li
There were no public hearings scheduled for this evening .
Comments from the Audience:
JIM BROWN , Architectural Research and Consulting , 119 Pere Marquette ,
representing Immanuel Temple Community Church , regarding SLU-17-90, 5400 block
of Logan St ./Martin L. King , Jr. Blvd. Reverend Owens is here also. We will
answer any questions you may have . Thank you.
BUSINESS SESSION:
Committee Report's:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee: Merle Barnhart , Chairman
Z-22-90, 216 West Lapeer Street DM-4 to D-1
The Committee recommends that the request by Robert Ford to rezone property at
216 West Lapeer Street from "DM-4" Residential District to "D-l" Professional Office
District be approved subject to the following conditions:
Planning Board Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 2
1 . That the final plan for landscape, screening and buffering be subject to
approval by the Planning Division prior to the issuance of any type of occupancy
permits for this property .
2 . That an acceptable drainage plan be submitted to and approved by the Public
Service Department prior to any alterations being done to the rear yard of this
property for off street parking .
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Mr. Wright supported;
Mr. Barnhart added that the Committee found, based on testimony and evidence,
that the proposed change is in conformance with the River Island Master Plan as
amended in 1986. The Committee further believes that if the requirements for
landscape screening and buffering and surface drainage are met , there should not
be any adverse impact on adjacent properties.
i
Motion restated and vote called for; APPROVED
Z-24-90, 1210 West Ionia Street B to C
The Committee recommends that the request by Jon Iversen to rezone property at
1210 West Ionia Street from "B" Residential to "C" Residential District be denied
based on the testimony and evidence that the proposed change is not in
conformance with the Master Plan which designates this area for residential use
at a density of 0 to 6 units per acre. The Committee further found that the
predominant land use in this vicinity is single family . Therefore , the change as
proposed would promote development out of character with the established land use
pattern .
Mr. Barnhart so moved for denial and Ms . LeBlanc supported; DENIED
E Planning Board Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 3
SLU-14-90, 1419/1421 West: Holmes Road
The Committee recommends that the request by Reverend Hawkins , representing the
Tithe Missionary Baptist Church , for approval of a special land use to a slow
construction of a new church on the property which contains approximately 2.6
acres on the south side of Holmes Road be approved subject to two condi.tions:
1 . A landscape screening and buffering plan be submitted to and approved by
the Planning Division prior to the issuance of building permits .
2. That a complete drainage and soil erosion and sedimentation plan be submitted
to and approved by the Public Service Department.
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Mr. Wright seconded;
i The Committee did consider nine criteria , which are set forth in Section 1282.02(f)
for reviewing special land uses , which show a positive affect will be derived for
the community from this change . Also screening and buffering is required in
accordance with Chapter 1290 of the Zoning Code. APPROVED
In recommending approval of this special land use the Board considered tyre
following:
A. The proposed church can be designed, constructed, operated a nd ma in to i nod
in a manner harmonious with the character of the adjacent property and the
surrounding land uses .
B. The proposed church facility will not change the essential character of the
surrounding property .
C. The proposed use should not interfere with the general enjoyment of adjacent
properties .
D . The proposed church facility will. represent an improvement to the character
of the subject property and ca.n be designed to be in keeping with the environment
of the lot.
E . The proposed church will not represent a hazard to adjacent: properties or
involve uses, activities , materials or equipment which are detrimental to the
CPlanning Board Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 4
health , safety or welfare of persons or property through the excessive production
of traffic, noise , smoke , odor, fumes or glare.
F . and G . There are sufficient public services and facilities available to serve
the proposed church facility .
H . The proposed church use is consistent with the intent and purpose of the
Zoning Code and the objectives of the current comprehensive plan.
I . The proposed church facility can meet the dimensional requirements of the "B"
Residential District.
SLU-17-90, 5400 Block of Logan/King Boulevard—Church
The Zoning and Ordinance Committee considered this special land use permit.
submitted by Phillip Owens on behalf of Immanuel's Temple Community Church on
the west side of the 5400 block of South Logan Street/Dr. Martin Luther King , Jr.
Boulevard.
The Committee recommends approval of Phase I and that the final site .plan for
Phase 2 development, be submitted to the Planning Division for approval. and Ilia t
it meet all the specific requirments of public agencies to include on site retention
of storm water, traffic and access drive widths and alignments and approval of
the final site plan for Phase 2 by the appropriate public agencies .
Mr. Barnhart so moved and Mr. . Wright supported;
Mr. Barnhart added; many concerns regarding the impact of this development
on the 20 acre site actually involved the second phase of development . the first
phase meets all dimensional requirements and can more easily handle public
service and traffic concerns. The Committee believes that this 20 acre site call
accommodate development of the church but approval should be given only for the
first phase at this time; thus enabling the first stage to be developed .
APPROVED
In making this recommendation the Board considered the following :
Planning Board Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 5
1 . The overall development appears to be designed in a manner harmoniot.is wi.lh
the character of the adjacent, property and surrounding area .
2. The proposed church will not alter the residential character of the surrounding
area . A substantial landscape strip will serve to screen and buffer adjacent
residential properties from the church .
3. The proposed church does not appear to interfere with the general. enjoyment
of adjacent properties .
I
4. The proposed church represents an improvement to the use and. character o1' the
property and the surrounding area . The placement and design of the structures
will be in keeping with the natural environment of the lot . A substantial portion
of the site will retain its existing vegetation.
5. The proposed church as designed is not hazardous to adjacent property and
does not involve uses , activities , materials or equipment which are detrimental
to the health , safety or welfare of persons or property through the excessive
production of traffic , noise, smoke , odor, fumes or glare. The Phase II structure
will be located away from single family homes in the area, further reducing
possible impacts to adjacent properties.
6. The proposed church is adequately served by essential public facilities and
services .
7. The proposed church should not place demands on public services and
facilities in excess of current capacity .
8. The proposed church is consistent with the intent and purpose of Chapter 1282
(Special Land Use perinits ) as well as the Southwest Area Comprehensive Plan.
9. The proposed church meets the dimensional requirements of the A , C and DM-l.
Residential Districts in which the property is located .
Planning Board Minutes
November 20, 1.990
Page 6
NCU-16-90, 6534 Aurelius Road—Extension
The Committee recommends that the request for extension of business activity at
6534 Aurelius Road be approved with the understanding that any other expansion
beyond the proposal at hand will not be permitted. It is intended. that
nonconforming uses not be intensified in use . The Committee does not believe that
the proposed storage warehousing will intensify this business beyond how it. is
presently being used since it will consolidate off site and on site storage.
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval and Ms . LeBlanc supported; APPROVED
Z-7-90, 329 West Saginaw Street
This is a request by Lansing Community College to rezone property at 329 West
Saginaw Street from "C" Residential to "D-1" Professional Office District for the
purpose of converting the existing structure on the site into office use .
A communication was received by Lansing Community College stating their desire
to withdraw this petition.
Mr. Barnhart moved for acceptance of that withdrawal. and Ms . LeBlanc seconded;
APPROVED
SLU-2-90, 320/22/28 W. Lapeer and 608/12/16/20 N. Walnut
This is a request by Lansing Community College for approval of a special land use
for properties located at 320, 322 and 328 West Lapeer Street and 608, 612, 616 and
620 North Walnut Street for the purpose of developing an off street parking lot for
approximately 57 spaces. A letter was submitted regarding this request dated
October 26, 1990 from Doug McKinstry , Director of the Physical Planning
Department at L .C.C. requesting the application be withdrawn.
Mr. Barnhart moved to accept withdrawal of this request and Ms . LeBlanc
APPROVED
supported;
.. Planning Board Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 7
The next meeting of the Committee will be December 12, 1.990 at 5:30 p .m.
in the Planning Division Conference Room.
Urban Development Commi.tLec:
Garry Goolsby, Chairman, reported the next Committee meeting will be held
December 11 , 1990 at 5:30 P.M. in the Council Conference Room
Board Member Comments:
Beth Monteith gave apologies to the Board for arriving late .
ndjournmenL:
The regular November 20, 1.990 meeting or the Lansing Planning
Board adjourned at 8 p .m.
Respectf y submitted ,
i
Vernon C. Fountain
for
James N . Foulds
Planning Division Director
WC
r
REM LANS'l
L I: ry
°91 Jnr`` 18 19-M S 54 Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:30 p .m. , Circuit Court Room ##2
2nd Floor, Lansing City Hall
124 West Michigan Avenue
December 4, 1990
Emly Horne, Chairman convened the meeting at 7:30 p .m. with seven members
present:
Barnhart, Goolsby , Horne , Killips , LeBlanc , Monteith, Wright
Excused Absence: Ms . LeBlanc moved for the excused absence of Margie McNutt as
requested and Ms . Killips supported; APPROVED
Staff in Attendance: Foulds , Fountain , Coscarelli
PUBLIC HEARINGS: These cases were presented by Vern Fountain ,
Zoning Administrator.
SLU-18-90, 1012/1016/1018 Walsh Street--Parking
MORRIS STEIN, Stein, Hinkle, Dawe, Wood, Johnson Architects , representing David
Nussdorfer, the petitioner. Mr'. Nussdorfer owns two easterly lots . The westerly
lot is still in negotiation. We attempted a trade situation with the owner but the
sale fell through. We are now actively seeking to have that parcel under control.
We have submitted a site plan and in addition would commit to doing certain work
on site while expanding the existing parking lot. There will be no additional
entries to Walsh Street. We propose widening the buffer along Walsh Street to a
ten foot green space . Along the easterly property line adjacent to the remaining
single family home we plan to create a real dense buffer. Houses would be
removed. The front portion of the two story building is brick and the balance is
block . There is parking on the south side of the building , Haco Drive . The second
floor houses offices , the first floor houses a physical therapy office . They have
more parking requirements than originally anticipated for their employees . We
have 5,000 square feet that is empty and Ingham Medical wishes to expand their
physical therapy department . There is more than adequate parking to the south
of the building for the other tenants . We wish to be good neighbors and feel we
can screen it quite nicely and not create a nuisance with additional parking .
Planning Board Minutes
December 4, 1990
Page 2
Mr. Foulds asked , at 1012 Walsh Street what is the legal relationship between the
petitioner and current property owner? Mr. Stein answered; we had a trade
agreement through a realtor and someone else made an offer at the same time so we
lost that particular house , but are in the process of looking at other homes .
Mr. Stein responded to questions; the lessee spent close to $100 ,000 in remodeling
with their own funds . So we feel as long as their operation is viable , they will
stay . It will never become a satellite of the hospital , it's strictly rental. There
is no purchase option . Operating times are 8 to 5, possibly until 6 p .m.
A message was received from MARIA KIRKBRIDE , 1011 Walsh Street stating she; (1 )
would like to see the houses remain where they are, (2) would not like this
proposal to negatively affect property values and (3) storm water drainage is a
problem. She would like to see the current problem corrected and not made worse
by the proposed parking lot .
BETTY BOSSLER , 1015 Walsh. The property is located in the 100 year flood plain
and we have had repeated problems with water in basements , problems with storm
drains and the street flooded on several occasions . We are concerned with ground
water. There are two hills that the kids use for bikes and skateboards and there
could be more accidents . It' s only a short block between us and Hazel Street,
which is the first traffic light , so making a left hand turn going south you have
a long wait . So we are concerned about the increase in vehicles .
RICK MC KIRE , 1001 Dakin , Community Developer for the Potter Park United
Methodist Church . I have been getting calls from residents concerning the
removal of those homes . The attitude is negative . Some things we are trying to
do in a positive direction have been exploited by the media and people are really
concerned about the value of their homes . It doesn't make sense to tear down
houses for a parking lot when we are still dealing with the homeless issue . In
this particular area you have a lot of people in a low income level . They feel this
would not be a wise move .
Also, I would be happy to have communication for the neighborhood whenever
changes are proposed for the area .
Planning Board Minutes
December 4, 1990
Page 3
JOHN BOOHER , 1012 Walsh. We don't presently have an agreement with them. If
we didn't make an agreement, what affect would it have? Mr. Foulds explained
that to apply for a change in zoning , an applicant must have some degree of
interest, which is defined in the Zoning Ordinance. We would look at a signed
purchase agreement between the current owner of the property and Mr. Nussdorfer,
or his representative contingent upon relocation as sufficient indication of
interest.
Ms . Monteith added , if there is no entry on Walsh Street , it seems impossible to
consider only the other two of these three lots.
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
SLU-19-90, 3000 West Miller Road--Church
REVEREND CHARLES BICY, Pastor of the New Jerusalem Church. (Preliminary
drawings were submitted) . We would like the special use permit because we have
outgrown our church . We have been there since 1977. We run two services on
Sunday; one at 8 a .m. and still our 10:45 a .m. service is overflowing . People are
parking on the street. The new facility would be east of the present structure .
We would also like permission to build a gymnasium east of the church and to the
north . We own some residential homes on the northeast corner that we rent out .
In future plans we would like to put up a pole barn , approximately 30 by 50 feet
to house a bus and a van used to transport parishioners . The neighbors have
been very cordial and cooperative . There will be no access to Miller, until
possibly one of those houses are torn down . We think we will be able to expand in
the spring . The final sanctuary will hold 1209. We feel we will outgrow our
church in a couple of years . At our new year service last year we had 700 to 800
people . We had a meeting in the Wharton Center and surprised them by having
almost 2,000 people .
REFERRED TO ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
Planning Board Minutes
December 4, 1990
Page 4
BUSINESS SESSION:
Approval of Minutes:
Ms . LeBlanc pointed out that on page 3 of the November 20 minutes the SLU-17-90
case stated approval with conditions for Phase 2 for the Church; however, Phase
1 had also been approved .
Mr. Barnhart moved for approval of the November 20, 1990 minutes as corrected
and Ms . LeBlanc seconded; APPROVED
Committee Reports:
Zoning and Ordinance Committee:
Merle Barnhart, Committee Chairman, reported that the next meeting will be held
on Wednesday , December 12, 1990 in the Planning Division Conference Room.
Urban Development Committee:
Garry Goolsby , Chairman , reported that the tentatively scheduled December 11 ,
1990 meeting will be held at 5:30 p .m. in the Council Conference Room.
Report from Planning Director: James Foulds
1 ) The Sign Ordinance has been in operation a month now and we have processed
about 32 applications for permits . We denied eight; of which six are being
reformatted and are coming back to us . Our conclusion is the sign companies are
able to comply with a minimal degree of activity . We sent Lansing companies
regulations with our letter informing them of the change.
.Planning Board Minutes
December 4, 1990
Page 5
Also, .the Department has been doing a survey and identified about one hundred
mobile temporary signs . We have addresses and pictures and then send the owners
a letter stating a compliance date. After that we would red sticker it for
repossession. About half of those signs are leased. You can go to a wholesaler
and get one inexpensively so some people purchase them outright .
2) Mr. Barnhart asked the progress on the Civic Center sale . Mr. Foulds
reported, the city sent the proposed purchase agreement to Heart of the City.
Associates;
Joel Ferguson and Sam Eyde . Governor elect Engler will have an impact on the
Civic Center sale.
New Business :
1 ) Mr. Foulds reported that there is no new business or pressing issues for your
December 18 scheduled meeting that cannot wait until January . Mr. Goolsby moved
to cancel the December 18 meeting of the Board and Ms . LeBlanc seconded;
APPROVED
2) Proposed 1991 meetings of the Board was submitted . Ms . LeBlanc moved to
approve the schedule and Ms . Monteith supported; APPROVED
Adjournment:
The regular December 4, 1990 meeting of the Lansing Planning Board was
adjourned at 8:40 p .m .
Respectfully sub itted,
C.
Jam s N. oulds , Director
Lan ' Planning Division
WC