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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020 mins Planning board FINAL S'''; LANSING PLANNING BOARD Special Meeting November 17, 2020 6:30 p.m., Virtual Meeting Andy Schor Mayor The meeting was conducted as an online teleconference in compliance with the Open Meetings Act,as amended,and to follow recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and other public health agencies concerning the COVM-19 pandemic. MINUTES - Approved 1/5/21 1. OPENING SESSION Mr. Hovey called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. a. Present: Katie Alexander (remotely from Lansing, MI), Farlian Bhatti (remotely from Lansing, MI), Marta Cerna (remotely from Lansing, MI), Tony Cox (remotely from Lansing, MI), Josh Hovey (remotely from Lansing, MI), Monte Jackson (remotely from Lansing) b. Absent: John Ruge (excused), C. Staff: Sue Stachowiak, Andy Fedewa, Doris Witherspoon 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA—The agenda was approved by unanimous consent 3. COMMUNICATIONS— • E-mail from Laurence S. Rosen supporting HOME and CDBG funding for the Capital Area Housing Partnership (CARP). • Letter from Rawley Van Fossen supporting HOME and CDBG funding for the CARP. 4. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. FY 2021/2022 Proposed Funding Allocations—CDBG, HOME, and ESG Resources Ms. Witherspoon stated that the purpose of the public hearing is to receive input on the proposed funding allocations for the fiscal year 2021 (7/l/21-6/30/22) Community Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan. She said that the amount of the appropriations that the City will be receiving for fiscal year 2021 are not available at this time, however, as with previous years, the City of Lansing will proceed with the Action Plan process/schedule and plan based on the previous year's allocations and adjust accordingly once the actual allocations are received. She said that the budget projections are subject to pro-rata adjustments based on the actual amounts awarded to the City of Lansing by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Ms. Witherspoon stated that CDBG fiends can be used to fund housing rehabilitation, public service programs, and economic development that benefits persons of low to moderate income. She said that the HOME program provides down payment assistance for home buyers as well as funding for new housing and housing rehabilitation. ESG eligible activities include rapid re-housing, homelessness prevention, street outreach and emergency shelter operations. Mr. Hovey opened the public hearing. Planning Board Minutes November 17, 2020 Page 2 Jim DeLine, President of Capital Area Housing Partnership, spoke about the importance of CDBG/HOME funding so that CAHP can continue to fulfill its mission of developing strong, diverse neighborhoods with a focus on affordable housing, homeownership and financial security in mid-Michigan. Vicki Hamilton-Allen, CEO of Habitat for Humanity, spoke about the importance of continued CDBG/HOME funding to support their program of providing housing for persons of low to moderate income. Rawley Van Fossen, executive director of CAHP, thanked the City for the funding that they have received in the past and the need for continued funding to support their housing programs. Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mr. Hovey closed the public hearing. b. Z-7-2020, 500 N Cedar St. and 514 Erie St. Rezoning from "H" Light Industrial to "G- 1" Business Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a request by MVAH Development to rezone 500 N. Cedar Street and 514 Erie Street from "H" Light Industrial district to "G-1" Business district to permit the properties to be used for multiple family residential/multi-generational housing. Ms. Stachowiak said that the findings of fact as described in this staff report support a positive recommendation for the requested rezoning. She said that the proposed "G-1" zoning will allow for the type of land uses that are appropriate for property that is located in close proximity to the core downtown and for development that is consistent with the mixed commercial/residential land use pattern being advanced in the Master Plan. She also said that the proposed rezoning will have no negative impacts on traffic, public services, the environment or future patterns of development in the area and that new residential units will provide convenient housing for people who work, attend school or simply choose to live in an area that is within walking distance of the goods, services and entertainment venues already available in Lansing's core downtown. Mr. Hovey opened the public hearing. Pete Schwiegeraht, MVAH Development, spoke in support of the request. Mr. Schwiegeraht stated the redevelopment project would bring affordable, multi-generational, multi-family units to an area near downtown, close to other recent developments around the baseball stadium. He said that they will be applying for Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to help fund the project. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Hovey closed the public hearing. C. Z-8-2020, 2918 N. East Street, Rezoning from "F" Commercial to "H" Light Industrial Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a request by GDN Farms, LLC to rezone 2918 N. East Street "F" Commercial district to "H" Light Industrial district. She said that the subject property contains a commercial building that was converted to a marijuana grow facility Planning Board Minutes November 17, 2020 Page 3 without obtaining the required permits and licenses to do so. Marijuana grow facilities by City Ordinance and by State law are only permitted on parcels of land that are zoned industrial. The subject property is zoned "F" Commercial. The applicant is requesting that it be rezoned to "H" Light Industrial so that it may continue to be used as a grow facility. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the findings of fact as described in the staff report for this request do not support a positive recommendation. She said that the proposed "H" Light Industrial zoning would not be consistent with the established commercial zoning and land use patterns along N. East Street. She also said that approval of the rezoning could set a negative precedent for future requests to rezone property along N. East Street from commercial to industrial which would be contrary to the commercial land use pattern being advanced in the Design Lansing Comprehensive Plan. Charles Ford, attorney for the applicant, spoke in favor of the request. He showed photographs of the improvements that the applicant has made to the property/building. Mr. Ford stated that there are no residential properties nearby and in fact, there is an existing grow operation just a stones through from the subject property. He explained that the business will have a typical commercial entrance on the front and will not be out of character with the commercial land uses along N. East Street. Mr. Hovey asked what type of license the applicant would apply for if this request was approved. Germaine Redding, applicant, stated that he is currently a caregiver, able to grow up to 72 plants and would apply for a City marijuana grow license as demand increases. Mr. Hovey opened the public hearing. Edie Kimball, 2922 N. East Street, stated that she owns the adjoining commercial property and she is in favor of the rezoning. She commended the applicant for cleaning up and improving the appearance of the property. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Hovey closed the public hearing. 5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE—None 6. RECESS—Not taken 7. BUSINESS A. Consent Items (1) Minutes for approval: November 4, 2020 Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to approve the November 4, 2020 minutes. Motion passed unanimously on a voice vote of 6-0. Planning Board Minutes November 17, 2020 Page 4 (2) Z-7-2020, 500 N. Cedar & 514 Erie, Rezoning from "H" Light Industrial to "G-1" Business Mr. Jackson made a motion, seconded by Dr. Bhatti, to approve Z-7-2020 as presented. Motion passed unanimously on a voice vote 6-0. (3) Z-8-2020, 2918 N. East Street, Rezoning from "F" Commercial to "H" Light Industrial Ms. Alexander stated that she respects the staff recommendation but wanted to discuss the request due to the proximity of other "H" Light Industrial zoned properties and an existing marijuana grow facility. Mr. Hovey asked what other types of uses would be allowed in the "H" zoning district. Ms. Stachowiak stated that it would allow for automobile repair including body work, engine replacement and painting, open storage yards, light manufacturing, and any type marijuana facility. Ms. Stachowiak stated the primary concern is the impact of this request on future requests to rezone property along N. East Street to industrial since it is contrary to the land use pattern being advanced in the Design Lansing Comprehensive Plan and the land use and zoning pattern along N. East Street. Mr. Hovey stated his concern is not the marijuana grow facility but other uses that could be established on the property under the "H" Light Industrial zoning. Mr. Jackson asked if the applicant could operate from the building as a caregiver grower. Mr. Hovey answered the applicant can operate as a caregiver by right under state law. Ms. Alexander asked if the sale of marijuana is permitted in the "F" zoning district. Ms. Stachowiak answered that it is but all dispensary licenses have already been issued. The applicant would only be allowed to sell to their caregiver patients. Mr. Jackson made a motion, seconded by Ms. Alexander, to approve Z-8-2020 as presented. The motion passed on a roll call vote of 4-1. Mr. Hovey cast the dissenting vote. Mr. Cox was unable to vote due to technical difficulties. (4) Capital Improvements Plan 2021-2026 Mr. Fedewa reviewed the Capital Improvements Plan and spoke briefly about the budget process over the suminer due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the amount of funding that is devoted to capital improvements. Mr. Fedewa reviewed some of the capital improvements detailed in the plan. Planning Board Minutes November 17, 2020 Page 5 Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cerna to approve the Capital Improvements Plan 2021-2026 as presented. The motion passed unanimously on a voice vote of 5-0. Mr. Cox was unable to vote due to technical difficulties. B. Old Business—None C. New Business—None 8. ADJOURNMENT—The meeting was adjourned at 7:35 p.m. 5 ' .LANSING PLANNING BOARD Regular Meeting y " 4 November 4, 2020 �C,.,l�; 6:30 p.m., Virtual Meeting Andy Schor Mayor The meeting was conducted as an online teleconference in compliance with State of Michigan Executive Order No.2020-75,to allow for the continued operation of the City while complying with Executive Order No.2020-92. MINUTES —Approved 11/]7120 1. OPENING SESSION Mr. Ruge called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. a. Present: Katie Alexander (remotely from Lansing, MI), Marta Cerna(remotely from Lansing, MI), Farhan Bhatti (remotely from Lansing, MI), John Ruge (remotely from Lansing, MI) b. Absent: Monte Jackson (excused), Tony Cox, Josh Hovey C. Staff: Sue Stachowiak, Andy Fedewa 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA—Agenda was approved by unanimous consent 3. COMMUNICATIONS a. 5 letters of recommendation from persons who rent property from the applicant for Z-5- 2020 b. A letter of objection to Z-5-2020 from the owner of 6005 Orchard Court C. A letter of support for Z-6-2020 4. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Amendment to Zoning Ordinance Section 1279.03(4), W. Saginaw Street Overlay District Boundary Expansion Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a request by RE Fund Lansing 1, LLC to amend Chapter 1279, Appendix D of the Zoning Ordinance to expand the W. Saginaw Street Overlay District by including the area bounded by W. Oakland Avenue to the north, W. Saginaw Street to the south, Westmoreland Avenue to the west and N. M.L. King Jr. Blvd. to the east, with the exception of the property at 743 N. M.L. King Jr. Blvd. which is the site of Westminster Presbyterian Church and a strip of land along the west side of the site. This area includes 5 parcels of land and Rose Court which is currently the subject of an Act 33 request by RE Fund to vacate that right-of-way. Ms. Stachowiak stated that if there is a redevelopment on this site the City would want it to be subject to regulations of the overlay district so that, among other things, the buildings would be near the front property lines with the parking lots behind the buildings. Mr. Ruge expressed concerns about the impact of a multi-stoiy building located at the front property on the residential homes along the west side of Westmoreland Avenue. Ms. Stachowiak stated that a strip of land along the west line of the subject property could be left out of the overlay district so that there would be a building setback in that area. Planning Board Minutes November 4, 2020 Page 2 Bob Johnson, representing RE Fund Lansing 1 LCC, spoke in support of the request. He said that the applicant is interested in redeveloping the properties within the area proposed for inclusion into the overlay district. Bob Waun, representing RE Fund Lansing 1 LCC, spoke in support of the request. He said that the proposed redevelopment would be primarily located towards the eastern side of the block where it is more commercial in nature. He indicated that he did not object to excluding an area along the west property line to protect the residential character of that area. Dr. Bhatti asked if he has a conflict of interest in this matter as he is a tenant in the building at 1100 W. Saginaw Street which is owned by RE Fund Lansing 1, LLC. Ms. Stachowiak answered that Dr. Bhatti does not have a conflict of interest because he does not have any financial/ownership interest in the property. Mr. Ruge opened the public hearing. Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mr. Ruge closed the public hearing. b. SLU-2-2020, Special land use permit— Church at 900 Southland Avenue, Suite 910 Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a request by Soulwinners Ministries International for a special land permit to utilize 900 Southland Avenue, Suite 910 for a church. She said that churches are permitted in the "F" Commercial district, which is the zoning designation of the subject property, if a Special Land Use permit is approved by the Lansing City following review and recommendation by the Planning Board. Ms. Stachowiak said that the suite that would be occupied by the church is located somewhat in the middle of the multi-tenant building at 900 Southland Avenue, the majority of which is currently vacant. She stated that a small church occupies the suite at the west end of the building (approved by Special Land Use permit in 2019) and there is a laundromat in the suite at the east end of the building. Ms. Stachowiak stated that staff is recommending approval of the request with the condition that the applicant agrees, in writing, that it will not object to the issuance of liquor licenses in the area. She said that this is standard practice for allowing churches in commercial areas. Mr. Ruge asked if it is known how many seats the church would have based on their stated membership. Ms. Stachowiak answered that there would be 19 parking spaces required for the church and that there are 62 total spaces on the property to be shared between all tenants. She said that there is more than adequate parking on the site and there are underutilized parking spaces on the adjoining parcels, many of which would be available for overflow parking if necessary. Mr. Ruge opened the public hearing. Michael Venya, representing the applicant, spoke in favor of the request. DRAFT Planning Board Minutes November 4, 2020 Page 3 Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Ruge closed the public hearing. C. Z-4-2020, Rezoning, 220 N. Pennsylvania Avenue from"C" Residential to "DM-4" Residential Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a request by Edward W. Sparrow Hospital Association to rezone the property located at 220 N. Pennsylvania Avenue from "C" Residential district to "DM-4" Residential district. The purpose of the rezoning is to permit the use of the property for expansion of the Sparrow hospital facilities. She said that the proposed "DM-4" zoning is consistent with the established zoning pattern in the area and will allow the subject property to be used for expansion of the Sparrow Hospital facilities which would be consistent with the existing land use pattern in the area. In addition, the transportation system in the area is designed to accormnodate heavy volumes of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Ms. Stachowiak stated that based on these fmdings, staff is recommending approval of the rezoning. Mr. Ruge opened the public hearing. Eric Iverson, LSG Engineers & Surveyor's spoke in favor of the request on behalf of Sparrow Hospital. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Ruge closed the public hearing. d. Z-5-2020, Rezoning, Northeast corner of E. Miller Road and Orchard Court from "F" Commercial to "DM-3" Residential Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a request by Raymundo Garcia to rezone the vacant .541 acre property located at northeast corner of E. Miller Road and Orchard Court from "F" Commercial district to "DM-3" Residential district. The purpose of the rezoning is to permit the use of the property for multiple family residential use up to 10 units. She said that given the 60% lot coverage limitation, the additional setback requirements that apply to corner lots and the prohibition on parking within the required front yard, the applicant may not be able to construct 10 apartments as the site is relatively small for multi-family residential development. Ms. Stachowiak suggested that the applicant explore the possibility of purchasing the land to the east of the subject property from the City and rezoning it to "DM- 3"Residential to create a larger site for multiple family residential development. Mr. Ruge opened the public hearing. Raymundo Garcia, applicant, stated that he had been in contact with John Krohn of the Ingham County Land Bank to identify available land for multiple family residential development. Mr. Garcia stated that he has been in contact with the City and is exploring the possibility of purchasing the land to the east as Ms. Stachowiak suggested. John Krohn, Ingham County Land Bank, stated that he has been working with Mr. Garcia on this property. The subject property was foreclosed on in 2012 and there has not been any DRAFT Planning Board Minutes November 4, 2020 Page 4 other development interest during that time. Mr. Krohn expressed his support for the proposed rezoning and the proposed development. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Ruge closed the public hearing. Mr. Ruge asked Ms. Stachowiak about the front yard setback of Orchard Court. Ms. Stachowiak answered that although the road curves, the setback is 20 feet based on the property line. Mr. Ruge asked what buffering would be required for the rear. Ms. Stachowiak answered there would have to be an 8 foot buffer of dense plant material or an opaque fence with a reduced amount of plantings per ordinance. Ms. Stachowiak stated there would be a 30 feet rear setback under the DM-3 zoning with parking allowed only in the side or rear setbacks up to the eight feet buffer. e. Z-6-2020, Rezoning, 2420, 2432, 2442, 2506 N. Grand River Avenue from "F" Commercial, "J" Parking, "A" Residential, "D-1" Professional Office and "G-2" Wholesale to "H" Light Industrial Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a request by Grand River Development, LLC to rezone the properties at 2420, 2432, 2442, 2506 N. Grand River Avenue from "F" Commercial, "J" Parking, "A" Residential, "D-l" Professional Office and "G-2" Wholesale districts to "H" Light Industrial district. The purpose of the rezoning is to eliminate an inconsistent zoning pattern along the north side of the 2400 and 2500 blocks of N. Grand River Avenue. Ms. Stachowiak said that in the distant past, the City used "J" Parking and "A" Residential zoning to limit the buildable area on a nonresidential site so that the City could maintain control over property by making it difficult for any new construction to occur without a rezoning. She said that that is not an acceptable planning/zoning practice and the inconsistent zoning patterns that occurred as a result should be corrected as the opportunities to do so present themselves. Ms. Stachowiak stated that staff is recommending approval of the rezoning as there is simply no logical reason why the properties in the 2400-2500 blocks of N. Grand River all have a different zoning designation when they are all located along a major arterial and all adjoin properties that are zoned industrial and being used for industrial purposes. Mr. Ruge asked about the allowable uses of"H" Light Industrial. Ms. Stachowiak answered that the "H" district allows commercial uses, storage, medical marihuana, although the applicant has not requested any such use, light manufacturing, and automobile repair. In response to a question from Mr. Ruge regarding landscaping, Ms. Stchowiak said that any project requiring site plan review would subject the site to compliance with the City's landscaping requirement which, in this case, would simply mean an 8 foot landscape buffer along the road frontage. Eric Kuznicki, Grand River Development LLC, spoke in favor of the request. He stated that they are a commercial construction company but they are constrained by the different zoning designations across the properties. He said that the proposed rezoning would make it possible to utilize the properties although they have no immediate plans to do so. Mr. DRAFT Planning Board Minutes November 4, 2020 Page 5 Kuznicki said that they will clean up the area after Consumers Energy completes their ongoing work. Mr. Ruge opened the public hearing. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Ruge closed the public hearing. 5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE —None 6. RECESS—Not taken 7. BUSINESS A. Consent Items (1) Minutes for approval: September 1, 2020 (2) Amendment to Zoning Ordinance Section 1279.03(4) - W. Saginaw Street Overlay District boundary expansion, as revised by excluding a strip of land along the west side of the site, legally described as: Beginning at a point 130 feet north of the northwest corner of Lot 143, thence north 377 feet to the northwest corner of Lot 129, east 80 feet, south 77 feet, west 80 feet to the point of beginning, Oakdale Addition. (3) SLU-2-2020, Special land use permit—Church at 900 Southland Avenue, Suite 910 (4) Z-4-2020, Rezoning — 220 N. Pennsylvania Avenue from "C" Residential to "DM- 4" Residential (5) Z-5-2020, Rezoning — Northeast corner of E. Miller Road and Orchard Court from "F" Commercial to "DM-3" Residential (6) Z-6-2020, Rezoning, 2420, 2432, 2442, 2506 N. Grand River Avenue from "F" Commercial, "J" Parking, "A" Residential, "D-l" Professional Office and "G-2" Wholesale to "H" Light Industrial Without objection, Mr. Ruge approved the consent agenda. B. Old Business—None C. New Business (1) Act-4-2020, Rose Court, Street Vacation Andy Fedewa stated this is a request by RE Fund Lansing 1 LLC to vacate Rose Court. The applicant owns the three properties to the north and south while Sparrow Hospital owns the parcel to the west. Per an agreement with the hospital the applicant would take on the property if the street vacation is approved. Rose Court is DRAFT Planning Board Minutes November 4, 2020 Page 6 a small local street that serves only to provide access to surrounding parking lots. The extent of the vacation is 231' x 50' and would allow the applicant to redevelop the area for a multi-family residential building. Staff is recommending approval with the condition that the Board of Water & Light's comments that utilities be protected and maintained by easements or relocation. Bob Waun, applicant, stated that Rose Court is in disrepair and that the vacation would allow them to continue their development progress in the area. As part of an agreement with Sparrow Hospital, the old parking ramp that was served by Rose Ct. was demolished. Bob Johnson stated that he met with Andy Kilpatrick, Director of Public Service, in February 2020 to discuss the traffic of Rose Ct. and the Saginaw St. /N M. L. King Jr. intersection. This vacation would help tie the three properties together and facilitate redevelopment. Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Ms. Alexander, to approve Act-4-2020, a request to vacate Rose Court with the condition that all utilities are protected by easements or relocation. On a roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously (4-0) (2) Capital Improvements Plan 2021-2026 Mr. Fedewa briefly spoke on the CIP, but did not have exact details on the Finance Department's budget procedures earlier this year. Ms. Cerna made a motion, seconded by Dr. Bhatti, to table the Capital Improvements Plan 2021-2026 until the next scheduled meeting for more information. On a roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously (4-0) 8. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER Ms. Stachowiak reminded everyone that there will be a special meeting November 17. 9. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON—None 10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS —None 11. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED - None 12. ADJOURNMENT—The meeting was adjourned at 7:52 p.m. DRAFT 11 S , LANSING PLANNING BOARD r Regular Meeting September 1, 2020 6:30 p.m., Virtual Meeting Andy Schor Mayor The meeting was conducted as an online teleconference in compliance with State of Michigan Executive Order No.2020-75,to allow for the continued operation of the City while complying with Executive Order No.2020-92. MINUTES -Approved 1114120 1. OPENING SESSION Mr. Hovey called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. a. Present: Katie Alexander, Marta Cerna, Farhan Bhatti, Monte Jackson, Josh Hovey b. Absent: Tony Cox, John Ruge c. Staff: Sue Stachowiak, Andy Fedewa 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA—Agenda was approved by unanimous consent 3. COMMUNICATIONS a. Email from David Lambert, owner of 1023 S. Holmes in support of the Z-3-2020, with reservations. b. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Z-2-2020, 5528 S. M. L. King Jr. Blvd. (PID #33-01-05-05-126-101), Rezoning from "D- 1" Professional Office to "F" Commercial Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a request by Steve Hanks to rezone the west, approximately 2/3 of the property at 5528 S. M L King Jr. Blvd. from "D-1" Professional Office District to "F" Commercial district. She said that the east, approximately 1/3 of the property is currently zoned "F" Commercial and the intent of the rezoning is to allow for commercial use of the entire parcel. Ms. Stachowiak stated that staff is recommending approval of the request as the proposed "F" Commercial zoning will be consistent with the general zoning pattern already established in the area. She said that it is also the most appropriate zoning designation for facilitating the land use pattern being advanced in the Design Lansing Comprehensive Plan and for facilitating reasonable development of the property. She also said that the proposed zoning will have no negative impacts on adjoining land uses, future patterns of development or traffic. Mr. Hovey opened the public hearing. Megan Short, representing the property owner, spoke in support of the request. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Hovey closed the public hearing. b. Z-3-2020, 1030 S. Holmes Street (PID # 33-01-01-22-133-102), Rezoning from "D-l" Professional Office and "B" Residential to "DM-4" Residential Planning Board Minutes September 1, 2020 Page 2 Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a request by Blackboard District, LLC to rezone the property at 1030 S. Holmes Street from `B" Residential district and "D-l" Professional Office district to "DM-4" Residential district to permit use of the property for 108 multiple family residential apartments. She said that staff is recommending approval of the rezoning as the subject property is uniquely large in the area in which it is located and thus, the rezoning will not set a negative precedent for future requests to rezone property in the area for multi-family residential use. Ms. Stachowiak said that the proposed development is not anticipated to have any negative impacts on traffic, public services or the environment. She also said that while the residential use is not consistent with the future "community facilities" land use being advanced in the Comprehensive Plan for the property, it is consistent with planning principles in general by allowing for a use that is compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. Mr. Hovey opened the public hearing. Jeff Deehan, representing the applicant, spoke in support of the request. He said that the proposed project includes conversion of the former school building into 47 residential units and constructing additional residential units on the property. Mr. Deehan stated that they are committed to preserving green space on the site. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Hovey closed the public hearing. C. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE—None 6. RECESS—Not taken 7. BUSINESS A. Consent Items (1) Minutes for approval: July 7, 2020 (2) Z-2-2020, 5528 S. M. L. King Jr. Blvd., Rezoning from "D-1" Professional Office to "F" Commercial Without objection, Mr. Hovey approved the consent agenda. B. Old Business—None C. New Business (1) Z-3-2020, 1030 S. Holmes Street, Rezoning from "D-1" Professional Office and`B" Residential to "DM-4" Residential Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to approve Z-3-2020, a request to rezone the property at 1030 S. Holmes Street from "D-1" Professional Office and "B" Residential to "DM-4" Residential. On a roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0) Planning Board Minutes September 1, 2020 Page 3 (2) Act-3-2020, 1401 Case Street (PID # 33-01-01-10-156-003), Easement Vacation Mr. Fedewa recommended approval of Act-3-2020, a request by Laux Construction on behalf of the owner of 1401 Case Street to vacate an obsolete 66 foot wide utility easement extending 444 feet north from the north terminus .of Case Street. He explained that 1401 Case Street is an industrial property that contains two buildings and a new, 36,500 square foot marijuana grow facility is proposed to be built between the two existing buildings. Mr. Fedewa said that the public sanitary and storm pipes within the easement only serve one customer which is the applicant for this request. He said that the applicant will be relocating the utilities to allow for the new building construction and the utilities will then become privately owned by the property owner. Mr. Fedewa stated that the easement is completely within the owner's property and is not part of a public right-of-way. Ms. Alexander made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson to approve Act-3- 2020, a request by Laux Construction to vacate the 66' x 444' easement located at 1401 Case Street, beginning at the north terminus of Case Street. On a roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously(5-0) 8. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER—None 9. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON—None 10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS—None 11. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED -None 12. ADJOURNMENT—The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m. (� s, LANSING PLANNING BOARD Regular Meeting t 4 July 7, 2020 6:30 p.m., Virtual Meeting Andy Schor Mayo The meeting was conducted as an online teleconference in compliance with tate of Michigan Executive Order No. 2020-75, to allow for the continued operation of the City while complying with Executive Order No. 2020-92. MINUTES — Approved 911120 1. OPENING SESSION Mr. Ruge called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. a. Present: John Ruge, Katie Alexander, Marta Cerna, Farhan Bhatti, Monte Jackson, Josh Hovey b. Absent: Gary Mains (excused), Tony Cox C. Staff. Sue Stachowiak, Andy Fedewa 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 2021-2026 Capital Improvements Plan was removed from the agenda. The Board approved the agenda as revised by unanimous consent. 3. COMMUNICATIONS—None 4. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE— Nancy Mahlow, president of the Eastside Neighborhood Organization, questioned if the streets would stay paved surfaces and publically accessible if the proposed street vacations under Act-1- 2020 are approved. 5. PUBLIC HEARINGS—None 6. RECESS—Not taken 7. BUSINESS A. Consent Items (1) Minutes for approval: March 3, 2020 March 3, 2020 minutes were approved by unanimous consent B. Old Business—None C. New Business— (1) Act-1-2020, Vacation of Jerome Street between N Holmes St. and N Pennsylvania Ave. and the vacation of N Holmes Street between Jerome St. and E Michigan Ave. Eric Iversen, Senior Project Manager at LSG Engineers & Surveyors presented the application. He explained that Sparrow Health Systems is requesting the vacation of Jerome Street between N Holmes St. and N Pennsylvania Ave. and the vacation Planning Board Minutes July 7, 2020 Page 2 of N Holmes Street between Jerome St. and E Michigan Ave. He stated that Sparrow owns the properties on both sides of both streets. Mr. Iverson stated that the portion of Jerome St. is part of the non-motorized system in the Design Lansing Comprehensive Plan, Mr. Iversen addressed Ms. Mahlow's question and stated that while Sparrow could not commit to future plans, the non-motorized pedestrian access will be maintained in one form or another. Mr. Fedewa stated that the request can be granted without a significant impact on the transportation circulation network. Sparrow traffic is already isolated from the neighborhood, and Jerome will remain the preferred non-motorized transportation route. Easements for water, electric, street lighting and communications will be necessary to maintain service. Mr. Fedewa said that staff is recommending that the City vacate the Jerome Street ROW (Pennsylvania Ave. to N. Holmes, and N Holmes Street (from E Michigan Ave. to Jerome St.) with the conditions that: • Sparrow enters into a maintenance agreement for the signal at Jerome & Pennsylvania • The street light agreement (for Jerome St.) with Board of Water and Light will be transferred to Sparrow Health Systems • The non-motorized access along Jerome, from Pennsylvania to Holmes will be preserved • Easements for existing utilities (water, electric, street lighting, communications) will need to be reserved • The agreement with ACD for their cell network antenna would need to be transferred to/renegotiated with Sparrow Mr. Jackson made a motion, seconded by Mr. Hovey to approve Act-1-2020: Vacation of Jerome Street between N Holmes St. and N Pennsylvania Ave. and the vacation of N Holmes Street between Jerome St. and E Michigan Ave. with the following conditions: • Sparrow Health Systems enters into a maintenance agreement for the signal at Jerome & Pennsylvania • The street light agreement (for Jerome St.) with Board of Water and Light will be transferred to Sparrow Health Systems • The non-motorized access along Jerome, between Pennsylvania Ave. and Holmes St. will be preserved • Easements for existing utilities (water, electric, street lighting, communications) will need to be reserved • The agreement with ACD for their cell network antenna would need to be transferred to/renegotiated with Sparrow On a roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0) Planning Board Minutes July 7, 2020 Page 3 (2) Act-2-2020, 1506 N Grand River Ave. (PID # 33-01-01-09-177-003) Permanent Utility Easement Mr. Fedewa stated that the City of Lansing proposes to acquire a permanent utility easement for a public sanitary sewer at the southwest comer of 1506 N Grand River Ave., currently owned by the Ingham County Land Bank, with a total area of approximately 389 square feet. Alec Malvetis, Assistant City Engineer, presented the application. Mr. Malvetis stated the construction project that is the subject of this easement is a joint City and Board of Water& Light project that has the City installing new BWL water mains. He said that the City has worked with BWL engineers on the specific design of this project. He also said that BWL does not have a utility easement on the subject property currently, but rather they are located within the Josephine Dr. right-of-way. Mr. Malvetis stated the project is another part of the ongoing sewer separation project the City has been doing for years. Mr. Hovey made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to approve Act-2-2020: 1506 N Grand River Ave. (PID # 33-01-01-09-177-003) Permanent Utility Easement, as presented. On a roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0) 8. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER—None 9. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON—None 10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS —None 11. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED -None 12. ADJOURNMENT—The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m. `1� s r,ti LANSING PLANNING BOARD Regular Meeting April 7, 2020 6:30 p.m., Virtual Meeting cHic, � Andy Schor Mayor MINUTES - Approved 1. OPENING SESSION Mr. Ruge called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. a. Present: John Ruge, Katie Alexander, Marta Cerna, Farhan Bhatti, Monte Jackson, Josh Hovey, Gary Manns b. Absent: Tony Cox C. Staff: Brian McGrain, Sue Stachowiak, Andy Fedewa 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA The Board approved the agenda by unanimous consent. 3. COMMUNICATIONS — None 4. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE — Charles Calati spoke in opposition of Z-1-2020 and SLU-2-2020. Mr. Calati thought there was not enough information under the environmental review question. Jane Hijo spoke in opposition of Z-1-2020 and SLU-2-2020. Bob Johnson spoke in opposition of Z-1-2020 and SLU-2-2020. 5. PUBLIC HEARINGS — None 6. RECESS — Not taken 7. BUSINESS A. Consent Items (1) Minutes for approval: March 3, 2020 Mr. Ruge corrected the vote tally on page 5 of the minutes. Without objection, March 3, 2020 minutes were approved as revised. B. Old Business — (1) Z-1-2020 & SLU-2-2020: 300 Block of N. Capitol Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-16- 177-002), rezoning from "DM-4" Residential and "E-1" Apartment Shop districts to "G-1" Business district, and Special Land Use Permit to construct a new parking deck Ms. Stachowiak reviewed the rezoning request and stated that the G-1 zoning is the most appropriate designation for the downtown core. Ms. Stachowiak reviewed the Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 2 Special Land Use request, the one-way street conversions, on-street parking, and the parking ramp entrances. Andy Kilpatrick, Director of the Public Service Department, spoke on the parking deck's ramps and traffic flow. Mr. Kilpatrick stated that Seymour Street could accommodate more traffic than what is current. Mr. Ruge asked if the North Capitol Parking Ramp could handle LCC's expected temporary parking needs if it is currently being underutilized. Mr. Kilpatrick answered that there is probably concerns about peak hour needs. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the ramp does fill up during the work days. Mr. McGrain stated that city employees will be moving back from the Townsend Ramp to the North Capitol Ramp and the ramp does get full. Mr. Hovey asked about the City's plans to move City Hall and if that would free up parking space in the North Capitol Ramp. Mr. McGrain said that the City Hall discussion is ongoing and it could be a few years into the future. Mr. Hovey asked what might be the life expectancy of the proposed ramp if it was constructed. Mack Joven, architect, answered it is designed for a minimum 50 year lifespan. Mr. Hovey made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to recommend approval of Z-1-2020: 300 Block of N. Capitol Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-16-177-002), rezoning from "DM-4" Residential and "E-1" Apartment Shop Districts to "G- 1" Business district. On a roll call vote, the motion carried 6-1, Mr. Hovey cast the dissenting vote. Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Mr. Hovey, to approve of SLU-2-2020, 300 Block of N. Capitol Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-16-177-002), Special Land Use Permit to construct a new parking deck. On a roll call vote, the motion carried 6-1, Mr. Hovey cast the dissenting vote. C. New Business — None 0 8. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER— None 9. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON — None 10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS — None 11. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED - None 12. ADJOURNMENT—The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. ti s r Regular Meeting LANSING PLANNING BOARD March 3, 2020 6:30 p.m., Conference Room 1� Neighborhood Empowerment Center �c 1r c' 600 W. Maple Street Andy Schor Mayor MINUTES - Approved 1. OPENING SESSION Mr. Hovey called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. a. Present: Katie Alexander, Marta Cerna, Farhan Bhatti, Monte Jackson, Josh Hovey b. Absent: John Ruge, Gary Manns, Tony Cox C. Staff: Sue Stachowiak, Andy Fedewa 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA The Board approved the agenda by unanimous consent. 3. COMMUNICATIONS — None 4. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE — None 5. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Z-1-2020 & SLU-2-2020: 300 Block of N. Capitol Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-16-177- 002), rezoning from "DM-4" Residential and "E-1" Apartment Shop districts to "G-1" Business district, and Special Land Use Permit to construct a new parking deck. b. SLU-3-2020: 610 N Capitol Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-16-201-007), Special Land Use Permit to construct a new parking deck. The Planning Board decided to hear the cases together because they are all related to one another. Ms. Stachowiak stated Z-1-2020 is a request to rezone the 1.4 acre parcel of land located at the south side of W Shiawassee Street between Seymour Avenue and N Capitol Ave from "DM-4" Residential and "E-1" Apartment Shop Districts to "G-1" Business district and that SLU-2-2020 is for a special land use permit to construct a new five level parking deck. Parking facilities are permitted as a sole use in the "G- 1" district, if a special land use permit is approved by the City Council, following a review and recommendation by the Lansing Planning Board. Currently the plans do not call for retail/business use on the ground level of the proposed ramp, but the floor height is tall enough to be retrofitted for retail/business use. Ms. Stachowiak stated the Design Lansing Master Plan calls for the removal of surface parking in the Downtown core, which this project would do. This site is currently bordered by other "G-1" parcels so it would not be a spot re-zoning. SLU-3-2020 is a request for a special land use permit to construct a new three level parking deck on the site currently known as the Gannon Parking Ramp along N Grand Ave. Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 2 Mr. Hovey questioned why the parcel has two zoning classifications. Ms. Stachowiak replied she did not have an answer for that as these designations were done before she became Zoning Administrator. Dr. Brent Knight, Lansing Community College (LCC) President, spoke on the College's application and stated that the Gannon Parking Ramp is at the end of its lifecycle. To ensure the safety of students and visitors the ramp will be demolished and replaced with a new ramp with costs up to $51 million. LCC is proposing to build a new ramp at N Capitol Ave. and Shiawassee St. on what is referred to as Lot 23, to absorb the parking needs as the Gannon Ramp is rebuilt. Dr. Knight said that LCC does offer free bus passes, but they are not widely used as many students prefer to drive into campus. Dr. Knight stated LCC currently leases parking spaces at a variety of locations in the area so these ramps are a way to centralize parking and increase student safety. The Lot 23 ramp will be designed to look more like a brick building and not a parking garage. Greenery and plant life, such as vines, will be a central component of the design and the south elevation will be a solid wall so the adjacent apartments will not be disturbed by automobile lights and noise. Tim Martz, LCC Director of Facilities, presented an overview of the site conditions and visual renderings of the proposed ramps. Mr. Martz declared that LCC does not want to build surface lots and these ramps are a way to discontinue surface lot use in other locations. Additionally, the ramp is designed to mitigate light and noise pollution on all sides of the ramp. LCC previously conferred with the City Engineering Division about the proposed two-way street conversions when designing ingress and egress of the ramp. The main entrance will be from Seymour Avenue with exits on Seymour and N Capitol due to potential conflicts with the City's North Capitol Parking Ramp. Mr. Hovey questioned the discussion about first floor retail/business use. Ms. Stachowiak and Dr. Knight replied that although it is not proposed now, LCC is open to future possibilities as they observe ramp use and market conditions. Mr. Jackson asked how many parking spaces would be lost if the ramp incorporated first floor business use. Mr. Martz answered there would be a reduction of around 50 spaces. Ms. Alexander asked if LCC will lease excess parking spaces to nearby businesses or guests in the proposed ramps. Dr. Knight answered Gannon is open to guests but the Lot 23 ramp is for students, however they would be open to the idea in the future. Bob Johnson, 800 Shiawassee St. spoke in opposition of the request and spoke on the intention of Design Lansing Master Plan in regards to residential and mixed-use development downtown. He stated that the City's North Capitol Parking Ramp has struggled to find consistent business tenants on its lower level and predicted this new ramp would not get retail/businesses either. Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 3 Todd Culver questioned how street parking on the blocks around the ramp would be affected and spoke in opposition. Kathleen Calati, 313 Seymour Ave., spoke in opposition and stated she hoped downtown would be for residents, not more cars. Ms. Calati said that LCC incentivizes all the driving and parking by offering students free parking. Jane, 317 Seymour Ave., spoke in opposition, stated that Seymour Avenue is more of a residential street downtown, and a parking ramp does not bring more residents to the area. Linda Peckham, 311 Seymour Ave., spoke in opposition and stated a new parking ramp would detract from pedestrian efforts and the historic character of downtown. Ms. Peckham stated that LCC did not consult with neighbors about this project or the design. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Hovey closed the public hearing. 6. RECESS — Not taken 7. BUSINESS A. Consent Items (1) Minutes for approval: February 4, 2020 Without objection, February 4, 2020 minutes were approved. B. Old Business — None C. New Business — Z-1-2020 & SLU-2-2020: 300 Block of N. Capitol Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-16-177- 002), rezoning from "DM-4" Residential and "E-1" Apartment Shop Districts to "G-1" Business district, and Special Land Use Permit to construct a new parking deck. Ms. Cerna said she wished LCC had reached out to neighbors in the area and questioned why the school did not seek input from people in the area. Dr. Bhatti reviewed the features mitigating light, noise, and exhaust nuisances. Mr. Jackson asked if the Seymour Ave. elevation was open construction. Dr. Knight said as of now the levels on that side of the ramp are open but they could explore the use of louvers to shield the openings. Dr. Bhatti mentioned louvers used on a Sparrow Hospital parking ramp and stated that the proposed design is very similar to a ramp on Michigan State University's campus, which when he walks by he barely notices it is a parking structure and not a regular building. Mr. Hovey asked what happened to the discussion about LCC purchasing the City's North Capitol Parking Ramp. Mr. Knight answered there were two city council votes Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 4 in 2008 and neither passed. He added that the age of the ramp is a concern to LCC as well since it is of a similar age as the Gannon Ramp. The Planning Board allowed Bob Johnson to speak on the matter of the City owned ramp because he was the Director of Planning and Neighborhood Development at the time. Dr. Bhatti asked if it is better to have a ramp or students taking up on-street parking in the surrounding neighborhoods. He commended the design of the proposed ramp. Dr. Knight stated he does not believe it is good for the neighborhoods if LCC students monopolize their street parking. Mr. Hovey remarked that the "impact on vehicular and pedestrian traffic" statement is the staff report is too brief and requested more analysis. The Board and Dr. Knight discussed LCC class times at night and evening lighting at surface lots currently used. Dr. Knight pledged to minimize light pollution in their designs. Ms. Alexander made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cerna, to postpone Z-1-2020 & SLU-2-2020: 300 Block of N. Capitol Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-16-177-002), rezoning from "DM-4" Residential and "E-1" Apartment Shop Districts to "G- 1" Business district, and Special Land Use Permit to construct a new parking deck, and requested more information about street parking design for Seymour Avenue, a more detailed analysis of the impact on vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the staff report, details on parking ramp light mitigation, an answer to why use of the City-owned North Capitol Ramp is not feasible, and an answer to why the City Engineering Division does not support Shiawassee Street serving as the proposed ramp's main entrance. On a roll call vote, the motion carried 4-1, Mr. Hovey cast the dissenting vote. SLU-3-2020: 610 N Capitol Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-16-201-007), Special Land Use Perm to construct a new parking deck. Ms. Alexander made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to approve SLU-3- 2020: 610 N Capitol Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-16-201-007), Special Land Use Permit to construct a new parking deck. On a roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0) 8. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER Andy Fedewa gave a brief overview of the Design Lansing Master Plan Goals and Objectives Matrix, detailing the progress made on each objective stated in the master plan. Mr. Fedewa encouraged board members to review the matrix closely as the Board will conduct a review and possible update to the master plan in Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 5 accordance to the Michigan Planning Enabling Act, once the Form-Based Code process is completed. 9. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON — None 10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Mr. Hovey and Dr. Bhatti informed the Board that they will both be unable to attend the next regularly scheduled meeting April 7, 2020 and that they could attend a rescheduled meeting date in April. 11. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED - None 12. ADJOURNMENT— The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. S i Regular Meeting LANSING PLANNING BOARD February 4, 2020 6:30 p.m., Conference Room Neighborhood Empowerment Center rr G ` 600 W. Maple Street Andy Schor Mayor MINUTES - Approved 1. OPENING SESSION Mr. Ruge called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. a. Present: John Ruge, Katie Alexander, Marta Cerna, Farhan Bhatti, Monte Jackson, Josh Hovey b. Absent: Gary Manns, Tony Cox C. Staff: Brian McGrain, Sue Stachowiak, Bill Rieske, Andy Fedewa & Doris Witherspoon On a voice vote the Planning Board granted an excused absence to Mr. Manns. 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA The Board approved the agenda by unanimous consent. 3. COMMUNICATIONS o Letter and church service attendance data from unity Spiritual Church (applicant) in response to the issues brought up at the January 7, 2020 public hearing o Petition containing 109 signatures in support of the NCU-1-2019 request o Letters/emails in opposition to the NCU-1-2019 request: ■ Two from Lora Bruder, Williamston, church member ■ Chris Hershberger, 1216 Prospect St. ■ Janet Hershberger, 1216 Prospect St. ■ Linda Garza, 216 S. Holmes St. • Four from Belinda Fitzpatrick, 224 S Holmes St., adjacent property owner to the north o Letters/emails in support of the NCU-1-2019 request: ■ Joan Nelson, Executive Director, Allen Neighborhood Center on behalf of the ANC Board of Directors, 1611 E Kalamazoo St. ■ Jennie Grau on behalf of the Prospect PLACE Neighborhood Association ■ Christ Janson, Church board member and area resident ■ Kay Batterson ■ Pamela Riley Miklavcic, Executive Director, The Davis Project, 230 Bingham ■ James Hagan, Hagan Realty ■ Naomi Snyder ■ Winalee Zeeb, 1808 E Michigan Ave., church member ■ Susan Winklelstern, Mulliken, MI, church member • Barbara Starling, 1419 Prospect, church member ■ Connie Cogswell-Samohovetz, 1215 Prospect St. ■ Two from Christine Clements, 1219 Prospect St., adjacent property owner to the west Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 2 4. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE Dan Maynard, president of Unity Spiritual Center board spoke in favor of approving NCU-1-2019. Sharon Ketchum, 1531 Osborn Rd., Lansing, reverend for Unity Spiritual Center spoke in favor of approving NCU-1-2019. Debra Otis, 3821 Dobie Rd. Okemos, thanked Ms. Stachowiak for her work. Morris, Prospect St. spoke in favor of approving NCU-1-2019. Lora Bruder, 5400 Zimmer Rd. Williamston, spoke in opposition to NCU-1-2019. Linda Garza, 216 S. Holmes St. spoke about her concerns in regards to a light detailed on site plans she had seen for the 230 S Holmes St. church. Belinda Fitzpatrick, 224 S. Holmes St., spoke in opposition to NCU-1-2019. 5. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. FY 2020/2021 Proposed Funding Allocations — CDBG, HOME, and ESG Resources Ms. Witherspoon stated that a public hearing before the Planning Board on the proposed funding allocations for the Annual Action Plan 2020 (7/1/20-6/30/21) is the next step in the process in accordance with the Citizen Participation Plan and Schedule of Activities. Ms. Witherspoon stated that Congressional appropriations for fiscal year 2020 are not available at this time, however, as with previous years, the City of Lansing will proceed with the Action Plan process/schedule and plan based on the previous year's allocations and adjust accordingly once the actual allocations are received. She said that the budget projections are subject to pro rata adjustments based on the actual amounts awarded to the City of Lansing by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This is the last year of the current Five-Year Consolidated Plan. Ms. Witherspoon said that the primary objective of Lansing's Housing and Community Development Program is the development of a viable community which will provide standard housing in a suitable living environment, principally to benefit low and moderate income persons, preserve and expand existing businesses and industries, and create an atmosphere conducive to stability in neighborhoods. She said that the CDBG funds are used to provide programs for low to moderate income households through activities such as housing rehabilitation, weatherization, and promoting economic develop ment/opportunities in eligible areas of the City. HOME funds are used for activities such as promoting home ownership through down- payment assistance and new housing construction. ESG funds are eligible for six components including homeless prevention assistance, supporting emergency shelter facilities, etc. Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 3 Sharon Dade, New Hope Community Center, 420 N Larch St. spoke about her organization and spoke in favor of CDBG, HOME, and ESG Resources funding. Angela Pruitt of Closing the Digital Gap, spoke about her organization and the need for more funding to be allocated to technological training programs. Sharon Courtland of Closing the Digital Gap, spoke about her organization and the need for more funding to be allocated to technological training programs. Jim Heinowski of Capital Area Housing Partnership, spoke about his organization and spoke in favor of CDBG, HOME, and ESG Resources funding. Ms. Alexander questioned if specific requests for funding are handled by the Economic Development and Planning Department. Ms. Witherspoon answered that they are in the Development Division. Ms. Cerna asked if the Department would detail funding numbers to the Board when they became available. Ms. Witherspoon explained how money is allocated for different projects based on prior years and they will adjust accordingly with federal numbers. Mr. Ruge stated that he found the details of the work done by Closing the Digital Gap to be compelling. Brian McGrain, Director of the Economic Development and Planning Department, spoke on his meeting with Closing the Digital Gap last year and welcomed any proposals for funding. Mr. McGrain echoed Ms. Witherspoon's prior statement that this is the last year of the current Five-Year Plan and the City could be rethinking its strategy for the 2021-2025 Five-Year Consolidated Plan. Ms. Cerna asked if the 20% administration funds could be used for training for Closing the Digital Gap resources. Ms. Witherspoon stated that CDBG general administration includes City staff costs associated with the preparation of the Consolidated Plan, Action Plan, environmental review, and implementation of community development resources. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Chairperson Ruge closed the public hearing. Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Ms. Alexander, to approve the CDBG, HOME and ESG Resources - FY 2020 (711120-6130121) Proposed Funding Allocations with the understanding that pro rata adjustments may need to be made to the budget based on actual grant award funding amounts from HUD. Motion carried unanimously. b. NCU-1-2019, 230 S Holmes Street (PID # 33-01-01-15-331-132), request for Class A Nonconforming Status. Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 4 Ms. Stachowiak reviewed the details of the fire at the church, the need of the applicant for Class A nonconforming status, and the need for the request going to the Board of Zoning Appeals. Ms. Stachowiak acknowledged the parking situation and detailed the occupancy limit for the church, the potential parking spaces in the gravel lot, the purpose of on-street parking, and that the peak time for parking is limited to about one hour on one day a week. Ms. Stachowiak reiterated that in her time with the City she has not fielded a complaint about the parking situation at this church. Because the Public Hearing portion of this case was conducted during the January 7, 2020 meeting, the Planning Board did not take comments from the public. Mr. Jackson questioned if the occupancy limit number would take into account future growth of the church's congregation. Ms. Stachowiak answered that services are limited by that occupancy limit of 85 persons. Mr. Jackson stated that if the congregation exceeded that limit they could hold additional services to accommodate everyone and Ms. Stachowiak confirmed. Mr. Jackson asked if on-street parking could accommodate the peak hour. Ms. Stachowiak answered that the church is the only non-residential use in the area and that there is only one peak time, limited to one day a week. Ms. Cerna stated that parking would be needed for other activities held at the church. Ms. Stachowiak answered that there is adequate on-street parking throughout the area. Mr. Ruge stated that even a funeral would be limited by the occupancy capacity and there are options to block off curbside parking if needed. Ms. Stachowiak stated that Holmes and Eureka streets already do not allow parking on one side of the street so that there is enough space for vehicle maneuvering. Ms. Alexander asked what would happen if the Planning Board denied the request. Ms. Stachowiak answered that the building would have to be demolished because it is fire damaged. Mr. Ruge said that he still has concerns with the undefined parking area and would like to see some kind of plantings or trees to demarcate the area. Mr. Hovey made a motion, seconded by Dr. Bhatti to approve NCU-1-2019, 230 S Holmes Street (PID # 33-01-01-15-331-132), request for Class A Nonconforming Status with the condition that vegetation be planted to screen and buffer the parking area. Motion carried unanimously. C. SLU-1-2020, N Homer Street (PID # 33-01-01-11-251-281), Special Land Use permit for a telecommunications tower in the "A" Residential zoning district. Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 5 Ms. Stachowiak detailed the request by Metro Fibernet, LLC for a Special Land Use Permit to construct a telecommunications tower and equipment shelters at the southeast corner of the Board of Water & Light property between 1220 and 1306 N. Homer Street. The purpose of the tower/shelters is to provide fiber optic internet and streaming television services to business and residential customers in the City of Lansing and surrounding communities. Telecommunication towers with related structures/equipment are permitted in the "A" Residential district, which is the zoning designation of the subject property, if a Special Land Use permit is approved by the Lansing City Council. Because the tower will be 80' in height the applicant will also have to go to the Board of Zoning Appeals to exceed the height limit of the "A" Residential zoning district. Additionally, the applicant will go to the City Council for a setback waiver. Ms. Stachowiak detailed that the applicant will install a gravel driveway and evergreen plants at the property border to the south. Ms. Stachowiak requested that there be a condition for staff to mandate more plant screening if it is deemed necessary in the future. Jim Rood, Metro Fibernet emphasized that his company wants to be a good neighbor and detailed the request. Metro Fibernet will build this tower as close to US-127 as possible and they are open to additional plant/tree species as screening elements. Mr. Rood said that limited staff would access the site but there will be a generator on site that will run for approximately 20 minutes once a week and for longer once a year to test power capacity. Mr. Ruge disused the 100' isolation zone of the pump station in the middle of the property and asked if the driveway could be moved further north away from the adjacent house at the south property line. Seeing no one wishing to speak, Chairperson Ruge closed the public hearing. Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Ms. Alexander, to approve SLU-1- 2020, N Homer Street(PID # 33-01-01-11-251-281), Special Land Use permit for a telecommunications tower in the "A" Residential zoning district with the request that the driveway be moved further north if feasible and the condition that the Zoning Administrator is given the authority to require additional landscaping and/or an opaque fence along the south property line if deemed necessary. Motion carried unanimously. d. Form-Based Code Bill Rieske reviewed the first Public Hearing of the new Draft Form-Based Code (FBC) that was held during the January 7, 2020 Planning Board meeting. Board members were sent internet links and documents about form-based zoning codes and specific resources for Lansing's new FBC. Mr. Rieske explained minor edits that have been conducted and that the Planning Office has incorporated public feedback given during recent presentations to the Saginaw St. and Michigan Ave. Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 6 Corridor Improvement Authorities. Mr. Rieske stated that this has been a long process and has gone through eight public hearings and over 25 meetings and the next step after the Planning Board is City Council review. Rikki Reynolds, Hickory St. spoke in favor of the Form-Based Code, but stated that public materials should better detail the benefits of the Code for Lansing residents. Mr. Hovey thanked the City staff for their work and stated that the major corridors are zoned to improve the built environment along them and that residential districts are zoned to preserve their current characters. Ms. Alexander thanked City staff for their work. Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Ms. Alexander to recommend the new Form-Based Code for City Council approval. Motion carried unanimously. 6. RECESS — Not taken 7. BUSINESS A. Consent Items (1) Minutes for approval: January 7, 2020 Without objection, January 7, 2020 minutes were approved. B. Old Business — None C. New Business — None 8. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER Mr. Rieske said that an evaluation matrix of the Master Plan will be back before the board at next month's regularly scheduled meeting, March 3, 2020. Planning Staff requested that the agenda format be reinterpreted so that action on cases are taken immediately after the case is heard rather than under the Consent Items section of the agenda for clarity and respect for everyone's time. Mr. Rieske informed the Planning Board that he will be retiring from the City of Lansing toward the end of March 2020. Mr. McGrain thanked the Planning Board for their work and service to the City as volunteer Board members. 9. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON — None 10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Mr. Hovey requested that Ms. Stachowiak update the Board in regards to the driveway and landscaping for SLU-1-2020. 11. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED - None Planning Board Minutes February 4, 2020 Page 7 12. ADJOURNMENT—The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m. t4 5 I.— Regular Meeting LANSING PLANNING BOARD January 7, 2020 6:30 p.m., Conference Room �� Neighborhood Empowerment Center G 600 W. Maple Street Andy Schor Mayor MINUTES - Approved 1. OPENING SESSION Dr. Bhatti called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. a. Present: Katie Alexander, Gary Manns, Marta Cerna, Farhan Bhatti, Monte Jackson b. Absent: John Ruge, Tony Cox, Josh Hovey C. Staff: Bill Rieske, Andy Fedewa 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Bill Rieske requested that the Public hearing for the draft Form-Based Code be moved to after New Business. The Board approved the revised agenda by unanimous consent. 3. COMMUNICATIONS o Jennie Grau, on behalf of the Prospect PLACE Neighborhood, in support of NCU-1- 2019, 230 S. Holmes Street. o Christine Clements, in support of NCU-1-2019, 230 S. Holmes Street. o Lara Bruder, on behalf of fifteen members of Unity Spiritual Center, in opposition to NCU-1-2019, 230 S. Holmes Street. o Linda I. Garza, 216 S. Holmes St., in opposition to NCU-1-2019, 230 S. Holmes Street. o Janet Hershberger, 1216 Prospect St., opposition to NCU-1-2019, 230 S. Holmes Street. o Kimberly A. Moore, Lansing Auto Repair, in support of Z-9-2019, 5400 S. Cedar Street. o Kathleen Bruchill, Comerica Bank, 5226 S. Cedar St., in support of Z-9-2019, 5400 S. Cedar Street. o Jeffrey P. Dice, RPM Auto Sales, 5436 S. Cedar St., in support of Z-9-2019, 5400 S. Cedar Street. o Herb Rials, Premier Oil Shop, in support of Z-9-2019, 5400 S. Cedar Street. 4. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Z-9-2019, 3440 N East Street (PID # 33-01-01-03-102-002), Conditional Rezoning from "F" Commercial District to "G-2" Wholesale District. Mr. Rieske stated this is a request by Jeffery and Sheryl Landgraf to conditionally rezone 3440 N East St. to allow for a medical marijuana safety compliance facility. Planning Board Minutes January 7, 2020 Page 2 The applicants have requested a condition for the rezoning to prohibit the property from being used for any purpose involving marijuana with the exception of a safety compliance facility, with the condition running with the land and be binding upon the successor owners of the land. Mr. Rieske stated that staff recommends that the conditional rezoning be approved with the condition that the property be prohibited from being used for any purpose involving marijuana with the exception of a safety compliance facility. Sheryl Landgraf spoke on their application. Dr. Bhatti opened the public hearing. Seeing no one wishing to speak, Dr. Bhatti closed the public hearing. b. NCU-1-2019, 230 S Holmes Street (PID # 33-01-01-15-331-132), request for Class A Nonconforming Status. Mr. Rieske stated this is.a request by Unity Spiritual Center of Lansing for Class A Nonconforming Status in order to permit the fire damaged church building to be restored/repaired. The site is currently classified as Class B Nonconforming Status which limits what can be restored/repaired and the amount of money that can be put into the building for restoration/repair to 35% of the building value prior to the damage. Additionally, the site does not conform to the minimum two (2) acre lot size and does not have access to a major or minor arterial street as required for churches on a residentially zoned parcel of land. The request to exceed the 50% limitation for a Class A Nonconforming will be heard by the Board of Zoning Appeals on their regularly scheduled meeting, January 9, 2020. Mr. Rieske stated that staff recommends approval of the request for Class A Nonconforming Status for the church building at 230 S Holmes Street (PID # 33-01- 01-15-331-132), based on the findings of fact stated in the staff report, with the condition that the necessary permits are obtained and the work to restore/repair the fire damage commence within one (1) year from the date of this approval. John Garlick (no address given) spoke in favor of the request. David Otis, 3821 Dobie, Okemos, spoke in opposition to the request. Belinda Fitzpatrick, 224 S Holmes St. Lansing, spoke in opposition to the request. Lora Bruder, 5400 Zimmer Rd. Williamston, handed out a transcript of her comments and stated she spoke on behalf of 15 members of the church. Ms. Bruder spoke in opposition the request. Planning Board Minutes January 7, 2020 Page 3 Sharon Ketchum, 1531 Osborn Rd. Lansing, is reverend for the church and spoke on the amount of money needed to repair the building. Rev. Ketchum stated that the sanctuary size is not being expanded, but they will make the building more accessible and include an elevator. Rev. Ketchum spoke on the condition of the parking area and stated that the church can simply hold additional services if the demand for parking is too great. Dan Maynard, 2237 Luwanna Dr. Lansing, spoke in favor of the request. Debra Otis, 3821 Dobie Rd. Okemos, spoke in opposition to the request. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Dr. Bhatti closed the public hearing. 5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE — None 6. RECESS — Not taken 7. BUSINESS A. Consent Items (1) Minutes for approval: October 1, 2019 Without objection, the October 1, 2019 minutes were approved. (2) 2020 Planning Board Meeting Schedule Without objection, the 2020 Planning Board Meeting Schedule was approved. (3) Z-9-2019, 3440 N East Street (PID # 33-01-01-03-102-002), Conditional Rezoning from "F" Commercial District to "G-2" Wholesale District Without objection, Z-9-2019 was approved. (4) NCU-1-2019, 230 S Holmes Street (PID # 33-01-01-15-331-132), request for Class A Nonconforming Status. Mr. Jackson made a motion to deny NCU-1-2019. There was no second. Ms. Cerna made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson to table NCU-1- 2019. Motion carried unanimously. B. Old Business — None C. New Business Planning Board Minutes January 7, 2020 Page 4 (1) Act-16-2019, 2122 N M.L. King Jr. Blvd. (PID # 33-01-01-05-476-063), Easement for private use of public right of way Andy Fedewa stated this application is for the creation of an easement to repair/replace and use of a portion of the existing parking lot that is within the N Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. right-of-way (ROW), but used by the business at 2122 N MLK Jr. Blvd. Existing pavement in the ROW will be resurfaced and improved; a driving lane within the parking lot will be widened, and there will be maintenance of existing parking lot lighting. Currently, this section of the parking lot is separated from the actual street by a different elevation, a guard rail, and vegetation. No existing easement for parking use in the ROW was found. Mr. Fedewa mentioned some of the comments of concern and property details made by the Lansing Public Service Department. 1948 a 15" sanitary sewer was constructed along the river. In 1960 the City accepted the southern 30' of the parcel for river improvements. Staff recommends approval of the applicant's limited use of the N M.L. King Jr. Blvd. ROW on the condition that a license agreement is drafted reviewed, and signed with the Public Service Department's stipulations. Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Ms. Alexander to approve Act- 16-2019 with the condition that a license agreement is created with the following conditions: • The Applicant shall provide a detailed description for the boundaries of the proposed easement. • The City of Lansing reserves the right to use and develop all land within the M L King Jr. Blvd. ROW for street maintenance, bridge construction, sewer construction, other utility construction and maintenance, and access to the Grand River, as necessary. • The City of Lansing reserves the right of access to all land within the M L King Jr. Blvd. ROW, including paved surface of the parking lot, as necessary. • The Applicant's use of the ROW is confined to the existing area of parking and that such use does not interfere with current or future operations of the City of Lansing Public Service Department in regards to the bridge and to the sewers. • The Applicant shall work with the City of Lansing Public Service Department to formalize a 40-foot wide easement centered on the 15" sanitary sewer. • The Applicant and City of Lansing shall explore a River Trail easement agreement for the use of the Applicant's property along the Grand River Motion carried unanimously. Planning Board Minutes January 7, 2020 Page 5 (2) Z-8-2019, 5400 S Cedar Street, (PID # 33-01-05-04-202-021), Conditional Rezoning from "F" Commercial & "J" Parking districts to "G-2" Wholesale district. Mr. Rieske stated that the public hearing for this case was advertised for December 3, 2019, but no quorum was present. It would be up to the Board to take action or not at this meeting. Pat Lennon, attorney on behalf of the applicant, presented the application. He stated that this is a conditional rezoning to "G-2" is to allow for U-Haul self-storage, truck and trailer sharing, and a moving and storage retail store. The conditions would prohibit marijuana facilities of any kind on the property, the proposed storage building located north of the S Cedar St. driveway will have an architectural design consistent with the rendering shown on the plan dated 8/29/2019, and the site improvements shown on the plan dated 8/29/2019 will be installed prior to occupancy. Board Member Jackson clarified that two (2) outlots will remain "F" Commercial district. Bruce Gershenson, property owner, stated this redevelopment is a $10m investment. The site currently has issues with graffiti and homeless persons. Board Member Alexander expressed appreciation for the applicants revisions to the application and architectural design based on previous discussions. Board Member Cerna asked for clarification about the locations of nearby facilities and questioned the demand for such businesses. Jon Gilmore, U-Haul Company of Western Michigan president, spoke on the demand for U-Haul services they have experienced. Mr. Gilmore stated they intend to hire 12-15 employees for this location and he estimated there would be 20-40 temporary construction jobs during redevelopment. Dr. Bhatti made a motion, seconded by Mr. Manns to approve Z-8-2019, a request to rezone approximately 9.38 acres of the property at 5400 S. Cedar Street from "F" Commercial & "J" Parking Districts to "G-2" Wholesale District, with the following conditions: No marijuana facilities of any kind may be established on the property The proposed storage building located north of the S. Cedar Street driveway will have an architectural design that is consistent with the rendering shown on the plan dated 8/29/2019 The site improvements shown on the plan dated 812912019, which Planning Board Minutes January 7, 2020 Page 6 includes landscaping, a connection path to the abutting non- motorized pathway and the provision of a bicycle rest area, will be installed prior to occupancy of the existing building or any new buildings on the site. to rezone the property at 5400 S. Cedar Street from "F"Commercial to "G-2" Wholesale district with the condition that no marijuana facilities of any kind be established on the property, the proposed storage building located north of the S Cedar Street driveway have an architectural design consistent with the rendering shown on the plan dated 812912019, and the site improvements shown on the plan dated 8/29/2019 be installed prior to occupancy of the existing buildings or any new buildings on the site. Motion carried by a vote of 4-1. Ms. Cerna cast the dissenting vote. (3) SLU-3-2019, 1315 Massachusetts Avenue (PID # 33-01-01-10-180-161), Special Land Use Permit, Parking lot in "B" Residential district. Mr. Rieske stated the request for a Special Land Use Permit to allow parking in the "B" Residential district is requested by Capital Area Community Services, Inc. A parking lot would be constructed on the south 18.5 feet of the vacant lot of 1315 Massachusetts Ave. with an eight (8) feet landscape buffer and a six (6) foot tall privacy fence. This new parking would be used by Capital Area Community Services for their Head Start program in the old Grand River Elementary School, just south of the subject property. If approved by the City and the Ingham County Land bank, the remaining section of the land would be split and transferred to the neighbor at 1319 Massachusetts Ave. for driveway usage. Diane Hickens, 1319 Massachusetts Ave., property owner spoke in opposition. Miguel Rodriguez, Head Start, spoke on the application and the need for additional parking. Roger Donaldson, architect, stated that the parking would only be for one aisle and 11 spaces. Mr. Jackson inquired of what material the fence would be made. Mary Farrand, Head Start, stated that additional parking could not be placed south of the main building due to underground conditions. Ms. Alexander asked about the rationale for the parking. Ms. Farrand Planning Board Minutes January 7, 2020 Page 7 answered that they hope to stop people from parking along Massachusetts Ave. in front of the building. Mr. Manns made am motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson to recommend approval of SLU-3-2019 to permit a parking lot on the property at 1315 Massachusetts Avenue. Motion carried unanimously. PUBLIC HEARINGS C. Form-Based Code Mr. Rieske reviewed the status of the Form-Based Code. A new final draft will be sent to the board members and posted on the City website. Some language has been revised and there is a master use table. Mr. Rieske stated an additional Public hearing is scheduled for the next regularly-scheduled Planning Board meeting, February 4, 2019 at which the Board can take action on the Code. If approved, the Zoning Code will be sent to the City Council Planning Committee. Ms. Cerna said a training on the Form-Based Code would be beneficial to the Board members so that they can discuss it with the community. Dr. Bhatti opened the public hearing. Seeing no one wishing to speak, Dr. Bhatti closed the public hearing. 8. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER - None 9. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON - None 10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Cerna stated that the Board members are appointed and serve the community on a voluntary basis. She decried the treatment she received during the processing of her reappointment. She had no idea she would be asked to speak `off the cuff on such matters as the Comprehensive Plan or the form based code proposal, and to hold special meetings with people in their neighborhoods. Had she been told ahead of time that she would be asked such questions, she would have been better prepared for them. 11. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED - None 12. ADJOURNMENT—The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m.